Artist Maitiú Mac The butterfly effect Cárthaigh speaks about Damaris Lysaght shares her passion his experiences as a for West Cork’s butterflies young gay man growing up in rural West Cork. page 23 pages 32-33

www.westcorkpeople.ie & www.westcorkfridayad.ie April 30 – June 3, 2021, Vol XVII, Edition 225 FREE

Old Town Hall, McCurtain Hill, Clonakilty, Co. Cork. E: [email protected] P: 023 8835698

TIME TO CHANGE NEW PEUGEOT 3008

FOOD & LIFESTYLE pages 25-37

PLUG-IN HYBRID, PETROL, DIESEL

Fiona O’Shea and Emily Andrews from Bantry were pictured having a sunny afternoon of fun at the newly re-opened Clonakilty Park Adventure Centre. Cork County Council seeks stories from CLARKE BROS LTD Main CLARKEPeugeot Dealer, BROS older people on climate change Clonakilty Road, Bandon, Co. Cork. Tel: 023-8841923(BANDON) LTD ARTS & hen it comes to dis- to capture their stories. If we make compiled and made available online Web: www.clarkebrosgroup.ie cussing climate change, the changes needed, we’ll look back and, in our libraries, later this year.” Main Peugeot Dealer, ENTERTAINMENT older people may have on it as a watershed moment. If we A climate story is an account Clonakilty Road, Bandon, pages 37-40 Wone advantage: they have watched don’t, it’ll be a record of what could of climate change from personal Co. Cork. it happen and have experienced its have been. While these are indi- experience such as: How have I impacts. A collaborative project vidual perspectives, the collective noticed climate change in my life? Tel: 023-8841923 between Cork County Council’s stories have the power to shift the Has there been a change in nature All cars can be seen on Climate Action Unit, Cork County narrative and contribute to positive or in my locality that has been af- Age Friendly Programme and Cork change.” fected by climate? How have I been www.clarkebrosgroup.ie County Older Peoples Council is Chief Executive of Cork County affected by climate change? Maybe inviting the older population in Council, Tim Lucey, commented, through storms, flooding or extreme Contact Ian Carey Cork County to share their climate “Climate change is a complex issue heat. What would older people like stories. that can feel far removed from our to say to generations coming after 087 2624747 Mayor of the County of Cork everyday lives. Sharing personal them? [email protected] Cllr Mary Linehan Foley, said, experiences can help put it into con- The initiative is targeted at older “Storytelling has always been a text. This project recognises older people (over 55s) in Cork County strong part of our culture and our people have unique knowledge, and the submission details are learning. We remember and trust insights and wisdom to share. This available on www.yourcouncil. stories told to us by our parents, inter-generational climate action is ie. Entries, in the form of a poem grandparents and elders. Anyone part of a wider awareness campaign or a story of up to 700 words, are HOME & GARDEN aged over 55 has lived through being undertaken in our Climate invited before June 30, 2021, and pages 41-44 climate impact. This project hopes Adaptation Strategy. Stories will be photographs are welcomed.

Now that we can go further..... Add your business today! 83,000 unique website www. o .ie visits last year! expl re west cork ...to discover our unexplored gems. 2 April 30 – June 3, 2021 Historical mosaics of Timoleague church at risk No-appointment unless funds are raised to preserve the building testing to continue at

n Timoleague the legacy of Saint Molaga lives on Dunmanway centre through the Abbey but built ork Kerry Community for testing. We ask the public Inearby on the site of what was Healthcare is pleased to to remember that photo ID is believed to be St Molaga’s cell is announce that the no-ap- required, along with a mobile perhaps the not-so-well-known Cpointment testing for Covid-19 number so we can contact them Church of the Ascension. To the will continue at the test centre at with their results.” unassuming eye from the outside Ballinacarriga, Dunmanway. She added: “Staff at the Balli- this modest church looks like The testing, which is part of nacarriga test centre in Dunman- most other rural churches – until the HSE’s enhanced Covid-19 way will continue to provide a you go inside. Almost every testing for local communities, warm welcome and an efficient, square inch of the walls has been began on Wednesday, April 14 safe testing service to everyone beautifully decorated in minute and was due to run for one week who comes forward for a test. and ornate mosaics. Stained- as a pilot. The people of the region have glass windows beam colourful Due to the success of that pilot done a fantastic job in recent rays of natural light throughout and the steady flow of people weeks and months in sticking to the building. Up high in the presenting for the symptom-free, the measures which prevent the chancel ceiling are the recently The west wall with mosaics of the Ascension of Christ no appointment testing, that pilot spread of Covid-19. Taking up restored paintings of angels radi- is now being extended. this opportunity for testing even ating a golden presence. Named has now turned to the tower. Jeremy Williams who wrote in Thursday, May 13, from 10am This means that people who when you don’t have symptoms to remember the Ascension of Without this urgent work, the ‘A Companion Guide to Archi- to 10pm. The public is urged to are symptom-free can continue will help us to go a step further Christ, this church has an aura of plaster that holds the mosaics in tecture in Ireland 1937-1921’ take this opportunity to discover to have Covid-19 tests without again in containing any cases.” peaceful and uplifting timeless- place, will fail. said that this church “transcend- and experience this gem of requiring an advance appoint- The testing is available from ness. There are many stories of his- ed the sectarian divide between hidden heritage. ment at the centre. 9am to 5pm Monday to Saturday While the parishioners are few torical interest linked to the mo- Irish Catholic and Protestant, A considerable sum of money Head of Health and Wellbe- at the existing test centre in in number, they are doing their saics. Perhaps the most unusual the Indian Muslim and Hindu, has yet to be raised to preserve ing with Cork Kerry Community the Randal Óg GAA Club in best to safeguard the immense concerns the mosaic memorial personal friendship breaking up the building. Contributions, Healthcare Priscilla Lynch said: Dunmanway. heritage of this church. Sadly, on the south wall. This was paid hereditary distinctions of caste no matter how big or small, “There has been a great response The walk-in/no appointment over the years water ingress has for by the His Highness, the and colour.” are all greatly appreciated. to this initiative from the com- necessary testing operates become a real problem and the Maharajah of Gwalior, India; In the same spirit of friendship Donations can be made through munity, so we will continue to alongside the existing testing at mosaics are beginning to spoil. in gratitude of a locally born and magnanimity, it is hoped the GoFundMe page at www. offer the no-appointment testing the centre whereby GPs refer A professional conservation plan doctor, Aylmer Martin Crofts. this building will continue to be timoleaguemosaics.ie. A new at Ballinacarriga. This strategic those with symptoms, and close was drawn up two years ago and Originally from the townland of a shared heritage for all people. video on the church will soon be testing initiative is seeking the contacts of a confirmed case of is now being enacted upon, as Concamore, Crofts was his per- The church will set up to comply launched for Ascension Day on support of the local community Covid-19, for their Covid-19 each stage can be afforded. Last sonal physician for twenty years with Covid-19 restrictions Facebook: Kilgarriffe Union of to assist in keeping cases low test. year, the main roof was com- and, on one occasion he helped and will be open to the public Parishes. in this region by presenting pletely renewed and attention to save his son’s life. Architect to view on Ascension Day, CNM Training Successful Practitioners CHANGE CAREER Train to become a…  Nutritional Therapist  Herbalist Attend a FREE  Acupuncturist Online Event  Homeopath  Health Coach  Natural Chef

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01 878 8060 www.naturopathy.ie April 30 – June 3, 2021 3 Help get Dave home ALBANY GoFundMe campaign set up recently in support of Glengarriff resident Dave AWalker after he suffered a stroke in February has a fundraising aim SSkibbekibbereenreen of €5,000 to get Dave home from hospital and back to his wife Jen. Funds raised will help to equip the couple’s home and driveway so that they are fully accessible and safe for Dave on his return. On February 28, 2021, Dave was taken to CUH and put into an induced coma, as he had a bleed in his brain. He has been making steady progress since and has been moved back down to Bantry Hospital. Due to the lockdown and travel restrictions, it has been nearly impossible for anyone from his family to visit him in hospital, which is especially hard on Jen; the couple did everything together before Dave’s stroke. Dave’s stepson, Chris Lindeman, who organised the fundraiser, says “This has been ex- ceptionally difficult on my mother, as before the stroke happened they We stock all of these paint brands! were locked at the hip… It has Little Greene, Farrow & Ball, Curator, Colourtrend, turned life upside down and the reason for this plea for funds is Tikkurila, Dulux, Fleetwood, Albany & Jotun so that when Dave is allowed to return to his home with my mother Delivering all over West Cork & Cork City! that it will be suitable for him to return to.” Jen and Dave before his stroke CURTAINS • FABRICS • BLINDS • PAINTS • INTERIOR DESIGN Before his stroke Dave was a HOME INTERIORS & DECORATIVE FURNITURE very active man, always working being helped into a wheel chair just want Dave home, where they on new projects around the house for between one and three hours a can give him the love and support Cork Rd, Skibbereen (next to Apple Green) or in the garden. This year he had day, using a standing hoist, which he deserves. “I’m truly thankful 028 23162 • [email protected] • www.fusionhome.ie plans to re-lay the tiles on the roof means he can build up his muscles to everyone who is supporting Opening Times: Mon - Fri 8am to 5.30pm | Sat 8am to 5pm and ‘tame’ the lower part of the and use his upper body strength this campaign,” says Chris. “My garden. Well-known locally, he to help move. “My mother sees a mother said that Dave was in tears was always there when someone slight improvement in his condi- when she told him how many needed help. Dave is Jen’s world; tion most days, as she’s allowed people are helping us, people we they always held hands watching to stand outside Dave’s window don’t even know. She knows that TV in the evenings and haven’t every day and chat to him,” says it will take months before they are spent a day apart since they met in Chris. “She takes some jokes with allowed to be together, but every 2009 – until now. her and asks questions to stimulate day they get through is a day Dave’s stroke has caused very him. She tells him everyday how closer. She is totally humbled by severe brain damage and it is much she loves him and the names the kindness of people, one day unlikely that he will ever walk of everyone sending their love. she hopes to be in the position to again. He is confused a lot of the He is able to reply sometimes; last to help someone else, as she has time and totally unable to care for Sunday he was able to say ‘I love been helped. She says thank you himself. He has good days and you’ to my mum.” from the bottom of her heart.” bad; a lot of the time he is very Jen is just waiting for the day If you would like to make a Four tired and he struggles to remember Dave can come home and she donation to help get Dave home, things like where he is from and can spend more time helping go to gofundme.com and search Generations where they live. Now able to feed him ‘come back’. Life will be for help-dave-get-home-to-see- himself, he has progressed to soft different; less active, every task his-wife-jen-safely foods and normal drinks. He is more difficult, but Jen and family as your local agent Cork County Council launches summer anti-litter campaign n anti-litter campaign has bring their rubbish to the nearest encourage responsible litter dis- been launched by Cork bin or take it home if they cannot posal in a fun and friendly manner County Council in antic- dispose of it responsibly. and capitalise on the enormous Aipation of an increase in daytrips The anti-litter campaign also sense of pride evident across Cork Michael Con Ray Con and staycations across the county signals the recommencement of County. The Council is also asking J O’Neill O’Neill O’Neill O’Neill this summer. Designed to appeal Cork County Council’s Project local businesses and communities to people’s pride of place, the ACT (Activating County Towns) to join them in the fight against campaign is encouraging everyone 2021, a continuation of the pro- litter this Summer by assisting Thinking of selling? to dispose of their rubbish respon- gramme of activities undertaken residents and visitors in keeping sibly, leave no trace and help keep by the Council in 2020 designed to the county a litter-free zone. Contact your trusted property advisor Cork County clean. support businesses and communi- Cork County Council provides Cork County Council is ties facing challenges as a result almost 1,000 bins throughout the Clonakilty 023 883 3995 conscious that while every effort of the pandemic. Further updates county, with the majority centred Tel: is made to provide bins which are will be made in the months ahead around amenity areas such as Skibbereen Tel: 028 21404 emptied regularly, an expected of the Council’s plans to support beaches and walkways. With fur- increase in outdoor activities could residents, businesses and visitors ther movement of people expected E-mail: [email protected] lead to more waste being left on alike in safely enjoying all that the in rural and isolated areas, the beaches, roadsides and at beauty county has to offer. Council is asking Corkonians to sherryfi tz.ie spots. The ‘Be proud, be sound One of the key features of always think in advance of what and help keep County Cork clean’ the campaign will be uniquely they are going to do with their campaign asks users to please ‘Corkisms’ signage, designed to litter. PSRA No. 004158 4 April 30 – June 3, 2021

the month’s name in Irish. A Bay, nobody would ask for hung on the door, or placed on Bealtaine especially fire was kindled in his honour, the loan of a match, tea, sugar the window-sill or dresser. In and cattle were driven between or anything, not even the time most parts of Munster, it was significant in 2021 in two fires as a safeguard against of day. If they did, they were more usual to pick and bring in disease. In Irish we have the suspected of trying to steal the ‘May boughs’, small branches expression : ‘táim idir dhá thine boat’s luck. In general, the rule of newly leafed trees, hazel, el- welcoming a return to life Bealtaine’, (I’m between two for the day was ‘no spending, der, rowan, ash, and particularly fires of May), meaning ‘I’m no lending, no borrowing’. in Co. Cork., the sycamore, between two minds’, unsure, in The first water taken from a often called the ‘summer tree’. a dilemma. May Day was sym- well after dawn on May Day Different growths were believed bolic of a return to life, of the was considered lucky. It was to be lucky or unlucky, varying defeat of the hard winter, with known variously as ‘the top of from place to place. Blackthorn, new hopes for good planting the well’, ‘the luck of the well’ elder, woodbine, furze, alder FACT and rich harvests. Bealtaine was or ‘barra-bua an tobair’. A story and whitethorn particularly, the time for milk and honey, is told of a woman in Cape were considered unlucky, but & FOLKLORE the primary time of pleasure, Clear rising very early to ensure this varied from place to place. of blossoming and blooming, she would be the first to draw In the Roman Catholic Eugene Daly of desire and satisfaction, so water from a particular well; Church, the month of May is the cow and the bee were both however, she fell asleep and a dedicated to the Virgin Mary. A retired primary teacher, West significant symbols for this neighbour beat her to it. Many families make a ‘May Cork native Eugene Daly has celebration. The cow’s mirac- Piseogs were especially altar’ in their homes with a stat- a lifelong interest in the Irish ulous ability to create milk and strong regarding matters which ue of the Blessed Virgin Mary language and the islands (both the bee’s creation of honey, the involved no certainty such as adorned with vasefuls of fresh his parents were islanders). sweetest food on earth, were milk, hay, crops and fishing. wild or garden flowers. The Ro- He has published a number of absolutely magical. In parts of The dew on the grass in the man flower festival of Floralia local history books and is a Cork and Kerry, the first Sunday morning has long been a sym- was instituted in Rome in 283 regular contributor on folklore in May was named ‘Domhnach bol of agricultural prosperity. It BC and was celebrated from to Ireland’s Own magazine. na hEadraí’, (Cow-time Sun- was often gathered and kept as April 28 to May 3 in honour of Eugene’s fields of interest day) because it was on this day a medicine or aid to beauty. The Flora, goddess of flowers and span local history, folklore, that the cows were left out to young woman who washed her vegetation. This Roman festival Irish mythology, traditions and pasture after the winter. face in the dew on May morn- was introduced into Britain and placenames. May Day was a ‘gale day’ ing gained a fair complexion, juxtaposed over the old Celtic when the Irish farmer’s tenancy while if she were daring enough fire festival of Bealtaine. The began or ended, on which a to undress and roll naked in the Christian devotion to Mary was ealtaine gets its name half year’s rent must be paid to dew she was given great beauty juxtaposed over this, so many of from the Celtic god, Bel, the landlord. Failure to pay the of person. our customs show a continuity god of Light, Fire and rent sometimes meant eviction, The principal customs from pre-Christian times to BFulfilment, who may be traced depending on the landlord or were those which welcomed today. back to the Middle Eastern his agent’s whim. The letting the summer. The picking and god Ball. ‘Ball Tine’ (the fire of grazing or meadows usually bringing home of wild flowers of Ball), is the derivation of dated from May 1 and farm was common, those in bloom at servants and workmen were this time of year being mostly hired at this time yellow – primroses, buttercups, There were more piseogs (or marigolds, furze-blossom. The superstitions) connected with children usually made posies May Day than any other day of of the flowers, small bouquets, the year. Nobody would loan which they hung up in the or give anything away on this house or laid on the doorsteps day, and anybody who asked for or window-sills. In West Cork, such was believed to be trying instead of flowers, people used to steal his neighbour’s good to (and some still do), collect Wild Iris luck. Among the fishermen of leaves of the wild iris, (liostrum, the islands of Roaringwater or feileastrum), which were Community Fund Scheme allocations agreed for Bandon-Kinsale Municipal District

ork County Council’s ment associations through the “Community groups have Bandon-Kinsale Munici- Amenity Grant Scheme, which experienced a particularly chal- pal District has agreed will support enhancing local lenging year, their contribution CCommunity Fund Scheme amenities and facilitating events in the response to Covid-19 allocations for 2021, which in the townlands. has been immensely valuable, will see €153,182 invested into Mayor of the County of however many of the traditional community groups and projects Cork Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley avenues for fundraising have across the Community Contract, praised the fund saying, “Over been closed to them. As a result, Capital Fund and Amenity Fund the past year, the communities Cork County Council’s invest- streams. in the Bandon-Kinsale Munici- ment through Community Fund €45,782 was awarded pal District displayed creativity, Scheme is vitally important for through the Community innovation and dedication in ris- many groups and the communi- Contract Scheme to 13 Tidy ing to the challenges they faced. ties they work within.” Towns groups operating in It’s a testament to the incredible Chief Executive of Cork the Bandon-Kinsale Munic- community spirit in the region. County Council Tim Lucey ipal District to fund ongoing I have no doubt that these towns acknowledged the importance maintenance works and minor and villages will move from of the scheme highlighting how, projects. €75,000 has been strength to strength thanks to “Cork County Council’s Com- allocated through the Capital their incredible community munity Fund Scheme allows us Grants Scheme, to support nine groups and organisations that to work alongside the com- large projects in community Cork County Council are proud munities we serve and provide buildings and sports facili- to support through the Commu- targeted support to achieve this ties in Bandon, Kinsale and nity Fund Allocations.” goal and bring lasting benefits Castlelack. €27,976 has been Cllr Kevin Murphy, Chair of throughout our Municipal allocated across 15 community Bandon Kinsale Municipal Dis- Districts.” groups, business and develop- trict welcomed the allocations, April 30 – June 3, 2021 5 West Cork teenagers speak out to make a difference eenagers across Ireland, “We think this issue is of and while assisting the native including students from greater consequence now during flora and fauna of Ireland. The West Cork, spoke out in the pandemic, as with the wide- students are hoping to create a TApril on the issues impacting spread use of face coverings, nationwide movement through them and shared their innova- the Deaf and Hard of Hearing use of social medias to reduce tive ideas for change with the community can no longer the unused traditional plain help of a new digital platform communicate with hearing grass lawns and result in a created by Young Social Inno- people as easily, as lip reading cleaner more natural Ireland. vators as part of the YSI Speak is no longer possible. We want Their hope is to pass on this Out Virtual Tour. to help overcome this language project to future transition years Students from Coláiste na barrier so that all communica- and generations to continue im- Toirbhirte Bandon and Beara tion is comfortable and safe for proving, developing, expanding Coláiste na Toirbhirte students Hannah Bucky (back left), Aoife Dineen (back right) Maeve Community School, Castle- both participants.” and maintaining their shared Coughlan (front left), Emily Desmond (front right) are concerned about the isolation of the townbere participated in the The students have already dream of a better world for all. campaign, sharing the creative started teaching people Irish “Our project has made a Deaf community in Ireland. ways that they have contributed sign language on their Insta- positive difference, as we have to their communities this year gram page; met with Senator created an outdoor space/class- searchable by location and through Young Social Innova- Mark Daly to discuss his in- room where students can go theme, giving a real insight into tors. The teenagers completed volvement in raising awareness for mask breaks and also some the social issues most relevant projects on issues they care about the importance of Irish classes will be held outdoors. to Ireland’s teenage population. about impacting people, com- Sign Language; and gave This is involving nature and The Speak Out Virtual Tour munities, and the environment. in-class Irish Sign Language wildlife into the students daily also sees students reaching out Colaiste na Toirbhirte lessons to some of the students life. It is also very good for to different audiences to raise Bandon’s ‘Sign Me Up’ project in the school. students and teachers mental awareness and garner support aims to raise awareness of the “Working with Sign Me Up health and well-being to get out for their projects including Deaf community in Ireland and has been so rewarding, as I in the fresh air. It also benefits among their local communities, incorporate Irish sign language could see our project making an the local environment and political representatives, local into the Irish education system. impact on many people’s lives,” wildlife, as it cleans the air and media outlets and other key Concerned about the isolation commented project chairperson increases biodiversity. It tackles stakeholders. This new element of the Deaf community in Emily Desmond. the majority of the sustainable to the Speak Out Virtual Tour Ireland, the students are de- Students at Beara Commu- development goals we chose is equipping and empowering Students at Beara Community School have created ‘The termined to effect change and nity School have created ‘The for the project and allows for young people to amplify their Garden of Weeden’ with the aim of creating a better working raise awareness, in particular Garden of Weeden’ with the aim further input and development.” voices, providing them with a around the issue of the lack of creating a better working and During the Speak Out Virtual and learning environment for their school and community mechanism to ‘speak out’ as of communication the Deaf learning environment for their Tour, all of the videos created without contributing to climate change and while assisting a collective on the issues that community comes up against in school and community without by YSI teams were shared on the native flora and fauna of Ireland. matter to them most. public settings. contributing to climate change a dedicated digital platform, New water-based activities EQ facility centre for Ballinspittle he significant increase in developed in partnership be- opportunities in local commu- people enjoying outdoor tween Fáilte Ireland and Local nities, particularly in rural areas water-based activities Authorities, will support the local and allowing for an extension Tsuch as kayaking, surfing, economy and the outdoor activity of the traditional tourism season paddle-boarding and open sector by significantly enhancing beyond the summer months. It water swimming is expected to the overall visitor experience, is also important to note that the PRIVATE VIEWING AVAILABLE BY APPOINTMENT continue to grow year on year, providing new business oppor- facility centres will be sustain- and not just during the summer tunities in local communities able, accessible and integrate into months. This means all-weather and allowing for the extension the natural environment of their changing facilities, secure storage of the tourism season beyond the locations.” and bathrooms at beaches and traditional summer months. Paul Kelly, CEO Fáilte Ireland inland water spots will be in huge Officially launching the said: “Our temperate climate can demand. €19million investment, Minister offer year-round quality outdoor To meet this demand Minister for Tourism Catherine Martin experiences. In order for Ireland for Tourism Catherine Martin and TD said: “Ireland is world-class to be recognised internationally Fáilte Ireland have announced when it comes to providing as a best-in-class activity desti- a major new investment worth water-based activities which are nation it is critical that we invest €19million. The funding will be enjoyed by local communities in building a sustainable activity used to build world-class facility and visitors along our stunning infrastructure, compelling visitor centres at 22 locations across the coastline, rivers and lakes. We’ve experiences and developing the country where water-based activ- seen a significant upward trend capacity of activity providers. ities are a key visitor attraction. in people enjoying outdoor This investment scheme will Garrylucas Beach, Ballinspit- water activities over the last year not only strengthen our appeal tle will be developed under this and we know the appeal of the as a country with strong outdoor scheme, in partnership with Cork outdoors will continue to grow water-based activities and County Council. Each centre will post-COVID19 so we must facilities, it will also create new provide hot shower, changing and ensure the Irish experience meets opportunities for activity oper- toilet facilities, secure storage, and exceeds visitor expectations. ators that will benefit local jobs MANY RANGES AVAILABLE induction spaces, equipment The scale of the investment and businesses while helping to washdown and orientation points. I am announcing today with spread visitors across the regions. FOR IMMEDIATE DELIVERY! They will be fully wheel- Fáilte Ireland will have a key Today’s announcement outlines chair accessible and built using role in Ireland’s recovery. It will Phase One of this scheme, which sustainability best practices such support the local economy and has an expected completion date Shop online at as solar heating panels to meet the outdoor water-based activity of summer 2022 and we will ‘Nearly Zero Energy Building sector by significantly improving look at a potential second phase www.glentreefurniture.ie Standards’. the overall visitor experience, in 2023.” This investment scheme, providing new business and job Brookpark, Dunmanway P47 VW95 023 885 6666 6 April 30 – June 3, 2021 It’s getting better Letter from the Editor Welcome to the May edition of West Cork People, accurate, I should really say the Suffice it to say that getting As our society slowly starts to unfurl from hibernation, this week we temperature and the light. I am Covid-19 would not be pleasant, patiently await news of the next stage in the easing of our govern- Mediterranean by blood and by and could be very serious. ment’s restrictions. Be gone my greys! Our vaccine rollout appears birth. I spent the first five years I know that the whole to be going well. It’s really heartening to see our older generation of my life in Spain. My body vaccination thing is fraught and out and about again. One gentleman out shopping approached me at Mary O’Brien was not conditioned for anything emotional. The issue has become the beginning of April for a paper and said this was his first outing Editor below 10C. It just shuts down. so polarised that I have found in public in well over three months. He seemed nervous but was It’s the same with the light. The myself prefacing any conversa- absolutely delighted to be doing his shopping and find a copy of his Norwegians may well relish tion about vaccinations with the favourite free paper on the same day! I’ve registered two over-60s for the dark months, but my body disclaimer, “I don’t know how their shots through the HSE helpline in the last few weeks; an easy A figures that it’s time to build up you feel about vaccinations, but enough process, although I did get asked different questions on each body fat and sleep. In winter I I’m looking forward to getting occasion! One has already received an appointment for next week. In WEST CORK feel a great sense of community one.” If you disagree with me more good news, the head of BioNTech, reckons Europe can achieve with hibernating bears. on getting the vaccine, there’s herd immunity against coronavirus by August; he’s “not worried” LIFE 3) All of County Cork: Yes all something I want you to know. about variants. We can only hope he’s right. I wonder when we get of it! After three months of being I don’t think you are stupid. I our freedom back will we embrace it with two hands or quickly forget Tina Pisco stuck in a five-mile radius of respect your personal choice. how precious it is. As mentioned in her column this month; we’ll Sheila Mullins winter fields, I can go anywhere Please, let’s not make this an have Louise chasing after us all with a big stick if we so much as Creative Director in County Cork. Like many of issue to lose friends and family pass up one invitation – fair enough I think after all our moaning and you, my first outing was to the over. groaning about not being able to see each other for the past year. must apologise for last coast. I filled up the tank and Personally, I don’t get what month’s grumpy column. It took the coast road, visiting all the big deal is. I travelled a lot as On the other side of the coin, as the Covid death toll passes 200,000 came very close to feeling my favourite coves and beaches. a child. Vaccinations, passports, in India with harrowing scenes, we are reminded how easy this virus Ihopeless, though I did finish can spread; India’s crisis is a crisis for everyone and none of us are At most of them I was alone. visas and vaccination certificates with the hope that things were When I did bump into others were an integral part of travel- safe until everyone is safe. going to get better. Well, they they were people that I know. ling. My mother had us drink Inside this issue you’ll find the usual mix of news, views and commu- have. Things have definitely The joy of chatting to them was lots of water, take an aspirin, and nity stories and interviews, most of it positive. gotten better and I can feel the like the sea air that I found my- wave our vaccinated arm around difference, the relief. self gulping like a greedy child. to dampen the side effects. There I hope you enjoy the read. Until next month, Ronan Ryan It’s not quite as relieving as A few days later I ventured out were countries you couldn’t get Mary Sales Consultant when Trump lost the election, to Inchydoney. What a shock! into without vaccinations. There back in November. That felt like People. Lots of people. Again, were countries you could get half a mountain had lifted from the joy of chatting to people, into, but couldn’t go home from West Cork People my shoulders. This is more sub- friends and strangers alike, was without vaccinations. There still €3 million pilot bike and e-bike Old Town Hall, tle. Like when you are winded as intoxicating as the magnifi- are. Before I volunteered to work McCurtain Hill, and suddenly start remembering cent view. Having a crepe and a in Nea Kavala Refugee camp upcycling initiative launched Clonakilty, Co. Cork. how to breathe again. coffee in the blazing sunshine, in Greece, I had to get a rake of www.westcorkpeople.ie There are four reasons for this: under a bright blue sky, felt like shots. Most were mandatory, but he Department of Rural and sought from eligible organisations 1) First there is the landscape: going on a luxury holiday. it was also suggested that I get a Community Development for inclusion on this programme. and Department of Trans- Organisations eligible to apply Spring is everywhere. Every 4) Vaccination registration: flu jab. I had never had one, and Contributors day brings some new beautiful Tport have this week announced are those currently supported Friday, April 23, registration for didn’t want it. MY GP however Kate Arbon thing to surprise me. Primros- the launch of a three-year pilot under the Community Services my age group opened and I am insisted, saying that the chance initiative for the provision of high Programme or alternatively are in Karen Austin es, bluebells, tiny little calves, ‘delira’. I was a little disappoint- of getting cholera was pretty foxes, lambs frolicking – you quality up-cycled bicycles and a Partnership/Consortium of which Hannah Dare ed to get a rather vague “you low, but that influenza was rife e-bikes for those on low incomes at least one member is currently get my drift. Every year I am Tina Pisco will be contacted in the next few in refugee camps. I got the jab. It and/or those who are most margin- a CSP supported organisation. astonished at how in tune with weeks”, instead of a firm date, was grand. I didn’t get sick and alised and disadvantaged. It is envisaged that the pilot will Louise O’Dwyer the landscape I am after living but sure look… Sometime in the have had one every year since. Funding of €3 million is being support up to six social enterprises John Hosford on the same little piece of this hopefully not-too-distant future Vaccinations are important. provided by the Department of in 2021. planet for the past 28 years. I will get my jab and it feels How you feel about them is Transport for this initiative over a Full details of the scheme and Sean Creedon Whatever doldrums I emerge like the first step towards finally important. But what is more three-year period and will be made the necessary application form will Tania Presutti from after the dead winter, the available through the Department be available on the Department’s being let out of this lockdown important is how we feel about Noah Chase greening of the landscape is the limbo. I’ll spare ye my own each other. After all the summer of Rural and Community Devel- website www.gov.ie/drcd. Propos- tonic that I need to shake off the health issues (here’s a clue: I is on its way for everyone. opment’s Community Services als should be submitted to csp@ Shane Daly doom and gloom. smoked for all of my adult life). Programme. drcd.gov.ie using the application Pauline Murphy 2) The Weather: To be Applications are now being form by noon, May 28, 2021. Kieran Doyle Sherna Malone Tommy Moyles Public meeting in May on flooding: Cairns Jean Perry Fiona Hayes looding continues to pass, and this is after several 2. Climate change isting retrofitting grants. Despite graceful when communities that be a major issue in flood events in Bandon over We cannot discuss flooding with- some scaremongering around have had a flood relief scheme Grace O’Sullivan MEP West Cork. Several recent months despite the ex- out talking about climate change agriculture and the climate bill, installed cannot access flood in- Rosari Kingston pensive flood relief works. This as a major cause. We have had I agree with the IFA president’s surance. With millions of public Fcommunities are being flood- Dr Jeff Featherstone should give us pause to consider the stormiest winter for 143 statement in favour of climate money spent on the schemes, the ed regularly when there are how we can best respond to years and the wettest winter for action, which balances the three residents and business in the area Pat Culhane storms or heavy rainfall. To flooding. Where areas need most of the country since records pillars of sustainability – envi- should be entitled to reasonable Paul Lordan tackle this issue Holly Cairns flooding defence measures, such began, with unusual Atlantic ronmental, economic and social. cover. April Danaan TD says we need effective as Bantry or Clonakility, these hurricanes, which are maintain- Ultimately these changes will Building on the work carried public policy that works with schemes need to be developed ing hurricane status closer to Ire- help ensure the survival of farm- out by community groups in Eugene Daly communities to find the best in conjunction with commu- land. The Climate Bill currently ing and fishing by stemming the Skibbereen, Bandon, and other James Waller solutions and supports those nities. State agencies should going through the Oireachtas is most severe impacts of climate areas, I’ll be introducing a Flood Liz O’Mahony impacted. There are three listen to communities to develop an incredibly important law that change, and they will also help Insurance Bill to the Dáil to workable solutions based on is supported by the vast majority reduce flooding events. ensure access for areas covered key points that are important knowledge of the land and the of public representatives. Along by flood relief schemes. I will to consider when talking cultural and natural heritage. with others in the opposition, 3. Flood insurance be holding a public meeting Advertisers Please Note: West Cork People does about flooding she explains: not accept liability for any loss or damage caused Also, instead of looking at I want clearer targets, realistic Reform of the insurance sector on Monday May 10 on the by any error or inaccuracy in the printing of any flooding in a piecemeal fashion, plans, and a just transition. is long overdue, but one of the topic with input from affected advertisement. We reserve the right to refuse or amend any advertisement, notwithstanding where, 1. Effective nature-based we should be addressing it on a We need to make significant most visible injustices is the re- communities, please go to my when or by whom accepted for publication, more- over we reserve the right to discontinue with the and community-centred watershed scale, in an approach, changes but we need to prioritise fusal of flood insurance. Homes website or social media for more publication of any advertisement previously pub- approaches lished. Please note further that we cannot accept which integrates flood protec- supporting those least able to and business are often denied details: hollycairns.ie responsibility for one or more incorrect insertion Last week we learned that the tion, stream and wetland habitat afford it. For example, we need this vital cover, which worsen and that no re-publication will be granted in the case of typographical or minor changes which do OPW has to carry out emergen- restorations and water quality to drastically improve public the effects and worry over flood- not detract from the value of the advertisements. cy works on Bandon River fish improvements. transport and vastly improve ex- ing. This issue is even more dis- West Cork People April 30 – June 3, 2021 7

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for a grant if you have refugee vision or are in the international Applying for a status, subsidiary protection or protection system, you can apply KNOW YOUR RIGHTS leave to remain in Ireland. for support under the Student student grant * You must have been ordinarily Support Scheme for Asylum I’m doing my Leaving Cer resident in Ireland for three of Seekers. send the application to the HSE. card will never expire. End-of- tificate this year and plan to go the last five years. You can read more Emergency If your application is ap- life treatment means you have to college in the autumn. How * Your family’s means must be about the Student Grant proved, it can take up to 10 days been told you have less than 12 do I apply for a student grant? under the specified threshold Scheme on citizensinformation. medical card to get your medical card in the months left to live. Student Universal Support for the previous tax year ie. What is an emergency medical post. However, your card will If you get a medical card be- Ireland (SUSI) awards higher (2020). If you or your family During COVID-19, you can card and how do I apply for be active within 24 hours of cause you need urgent ongoing and further education grants to have had a change of circum- find comprehensive integrated one? your application being pro- care and urgently need a medical people living in Ireland. stances during the tax year, information online at citizen- An emergency medical card is cessed. Your GP, pharmacy and card, your card will expire after You complete an application your changed circumstances sinformation.ie/covid19/ and a medical card that you can get hospital staff will see your card six months. You will need to form online to apply to SUSI. may be taken into account. you can get daily updates on without a means test in certain is active on their systems. This complete a means assessment You must have an online account * You must be attending a what’s changed on Twitter at @ emergency situations. means you can access medical before your emergency medical with SUSI before you can make course that is approved for citizensinfo. You can get an emergency card services while you wait for card expires. The HSE will write your application. SUSI accepts a student grant. You can see medical card if you: your card in the post. to you to remind you to do this. grant applications for the 2021- the list of approved institu- Know Your Rights has been Have a terminal illness and If you get a medical card be- You can get more information 2022 academic year from 22 tions and courses on SUSI’s compiled by Citizens Informa- have been told you have 24 cause you have a terminal illness from the National Medical Card April 2021. website. tion West Cork which provides months or less to live; Are get- and have been told you have 24 Unit on (051) 595 129, or lo-call You can use SUSI’s eligibility a free and confidential service to ting end-of-life treatment; Need months or less to live, the HSE 1890 252 919 or you can contact reckoner to see whether you If you are refused a grant or are the public. urgent ongoing care and urgently will never review your card and your local Citizens Information meet the criteria for student approved a grant at a rate that WEST CORK HELPLINE need a medical card. your card will never expire. Centre. grant funding. you don’t think applies to your 0761 078 390 Only a healthcare professional If you get a medical card You can read more situation, you can appeal the Email [email protected] (for example, a doctor or consul- because you are receiving end- about emergency medical These include: decision in writing to SUSI. You Information is also available on- tant) can apply for an emergency of-life treatment, the HSE will cards on citizensinformation.ie * You must be an Irish, UK, must appeal within 30 days of line at citizensinformation.ie and medical card for you. They will never review your card and your EU, EEA or Swiss national. getting your decision. from the Citizens Information You may also be considered If you are living in direct pro- Phone Service, 0761 07 4000

Entitlements and schemes you did not realise you were eligible to claim here are many different with children who meet the Support Grant, which is paid your own, you may be able to social welfare payments eligibility conditions. It gives once a year, usually on the first qualify using your spouse, civil available to people living extra financial support to people Thursday in June for those who partner or cohabitant’s PRSI Tin Ireland and all have different on low pay who work at least are eligible. It is not a taxable record. eligibility criteria. Some, such 38 hours a fortnight. You must payment.” as Child Benefit, are available be an employee to qualify for Medical Card to the majority of people with WFP and you cannot qualify if State Pensions There are people who may be children, while others are ben- you are only self-employed. Citizens Information also get eligible for a medical card but efits based on your PRSI con- Anne O’Donovan gives an calls from people in their late they are reluctant to apply as the We are here to support tributions and others are means example that if your net income 60s, who have passed the State income thresholds for people tested. To people unfamiliar was €600 per week and you Pension age, paid their contribu- aged under 70 seem very low. you in West Cork with the system, it can be very have three dependent children, tions, but are continuing to However, Citizens Information Phone Bantry Mon- Fri, 9-5pm on 0761 07 8390 confusing. According to Anne you could get €85.80 a week work. Some of these people do point out that while they would O’Donovan, Development under the Working Family not realise that you can claim appear low, you can add on Providing you with free and confidential information, Manager with the Citizens In- Payment. A lot of people would your pension from 66 even if things like mortgage payments, advice and advocacy on formation Service in West Cork, not be aware of this. you’re still working. Also if you reasonable travel expenses to • SOCIAL WELFARE • EMPLOYMENT RIGHTS it can result in some people not are on the means-tested State work, and so you can increase • HOUSING • FAMILY MATTERS claiming payments which they Family Carers Pension (Non-Contributory), the income threshold by includ- • HEALTH • INCOME SUPPORT would be eligible to receive. The Carer’s Support Grant is an you can earn €200 each week ing allowable expenses. She gives some examples as annual payment made to carers if you are an employee (not Further information in rela- [email protected] follows: by the Department of Social self-employed) and it will not tion to all of the above schemes National phone line 0761 07 4000 9am-8pm, Mon-Fri Protection (DSP). Carers can impact on your pension amount is available from your local Working Families use the grant in whatever way Citizens Information Centre. citizensinformation.ie Working Family Payment they wish. Many people who Treatment Benefit To check if you are eligible for Funded and supported by the Citizens Information Board (WFP) is a weekly tax-free are eligible do not claim this There have been improve- these or any other schemes you payment available to employees annual grant. ments to the Treatment Benefit should telephone the West Cork Anne O’Donovan says that Scheme, which is available to Citizens Information Helpline: the Carer’s Support Grant will workers (both employees and 0761 07 8390. They will discuss increase to €1,850 in June this self-employed) and retired your current circumstances with year from €1,700 previously. people who have enough social you and make you aware of any It is available to a person who insurance (PRSI) contributions. entitlements that are available HOLLY CAIRNS TD is caring for someone else on a The amount of PRSI contribu- to you. You may be entitled Cork South West full-time basis and not working tions that you need depends on to something that you did not Progress | Equality | Democracy | Sustainability outside the home for more than your age. realise was available to you. 18.5 hours per week. It is not From March 27, 2021, you For anyone needing infor- My constituency offices in Bandon necessary to be in receipt of can get the full cost of a hearing mation, advice or who have an and Skibbereen are closed during the Carer’s Allowance or Carer’s aid up to a maximum of €500 advocacy issue, they can call Benefit to claim this grant. It is or €1000 for a pair. Before this a member of the local Citizens pandemic but please get in touch if also not means-tested. date, you had to pay at least half Information team in West Cork there’s anything I can do to help you. “We encounter people who the cost of a hearing aid and re- on 0761 07 8390, they will be are caring full-time for an pairs. For example, if a hearing happy to assist and make an elderly parent or they may be aid costs €600, you now only appointment if necessary. The retired themselves and caring pay €100 for one aid or €200 offices are staffed from Monday m 086 3615830 for their spouse. They may for a pair. The scheme also to Friday from 10am to 5pm. k [email protected] have a good standard of living covers the full cost of repairs to Alternatively, you can email at D and savings and not be eligible aids, up to a maximum of €100. [email protected] or log on to @HollyCairnsTD for Carers Allowance, which Some people may not be www.citizensinformation.ie for E Holly Cairns TD is means-tested. However, aware that if you do not have further information and contact they can apply for the Carers enough PRSI contributions of details. April 30 – June 3, 2021 9 RNLI launches Mayday for funds as figures show Cork lifeboat crews rescued 99 people last year

serious trouble. We didn’t hes- very best in lifeboat equipment itate to raise the alarm and our and kit. Recently our lifeboat equipment and knowledge kept was out for over twelve hours in us safe until help arrived. I can’t the worst of conditions to give describe the feeling of joy when assistance to an Irish fishing you see those big orange life- vessel in trouble and we will boats come into view. I’m a big gladly do it again when called man but we were scooped into on. Thank you to everyone who that lifeboat like we weighed supports our work.” nothing. They were so profes- For a second year, Union sional and reassured us that we Hall RNLI’s main fundraiser, had done everything right. its annual Flag Day, cannot take “My family are so grateful to place in Skibbereen. This year Youghal and Ballycotton RNLI they are shouting ‘MAYDAY’ and to the paramedics and Coast to all West Cork People readers: Guard crews who attended to “We need your support as we us that day. What might have gear up for the busy summer happened only hit me much lat- ahead,” Union Hall RNLI Press St. John’ser. I’m doing the Mayday Mile Officer Pamela Deasy explains. fundraiser to thank the RNLI “Will you answer our call and Volunteers at Union Hall (l-r) Tim O’Donovan, Richie O’Mahony and Shane Hurley are asking you to suport Mayday Mile. and hopefully by sharing my support our Mayday Mile this story other people will know month? We are asking you to he RNLI is launching its with people continuing to holi- their work. Sign up at RNLI. Centhad attended sailingral courses andColle that anyone can getg intoe difficul- run, walk, swim, kick a ball, Mayday Mile fundraiser day at home. Last year, even as org/SupportMayday. knew what to do in an emergen- ty and it’s important to have a kayak or crawl a mile. Get fami- as the charity’s rescue the country dealt with restric- Cork man Peter Connon, cy. Their equipment Sawmill and quick St.means Cork of calling for City help.” ly and friends to sponsor you, or Tfigures for 2020 show that tions put in place to fight the a keen sailor, was out sailing thinking kept them safe until the Adding his thanks to the pub- choose your activity and make volunteer lifeboat crews at its pandemic, lifeboat crews were with four young members of his RNLI lifeboat crew were able to lic who will be doing a Mayday your donation once completed. eight lifeboat stations in Cork still busy, bringing 1,145 people family when they encountered rescue them. Mile for the RNLI, Castletown- We ask you to adhere to current launched 88 times and brought to safety. a squall that resulted in one of Explaining why he is sup- bere RNLI Coxswain Dean Government guidelines so either 99 people to safety. The RNLI The RNLI’s Mayday cam- their craft capsizing. In trying to porting Mayday and doing his Hegarty said, “I want to thank do the challenge individually, operates lifeboat stations in paign begins on Saturday 1 May aid the group a second craft also own Mayday Mile walk, Peter everyone who supports the life- with your family or your sup- Youghal, Ballycotton, Cross- and runs throughout the month. capsized and, with the weather spoke about the day he was res- boat crews and the work we do. port bubble. You can register to haven, Kinsale, Courtmacsher- Lifesavers are calling on sup- worsening, they were unable to cued, “I’ve lived in Youghal all Being on a lifeboat crew here in take part at RNLI.org/mayday- ry, Union Hall, Baltimore and porters to join the Mayday Mile right the vessels. Mobile phones my life and I’m an experienced West Cork, we have had some mile, and once registered, then Castletownbere in Cork. and cover the distance for the were rendered useless but they sailor, as are my family. That challenging shouts over the past you can join team Union Hall so Volunteer lifeboat crews charity in any way they chose managed to set off a personal day we took every precaution, year and I’ve been very grateful that your donation is allocated are getting ready for what they to raise vital funds to help their locator beacon and kept calm but the weather turned, and to have a highly trained lifeboat to Union Hall RNLI.” expect will be a busy summer local lifeboat crews continue until help arrived. The group we quickly found ourselves in crew with me and to have the St. John’s Central College EXPLORE Sawmill St. Cork City MORE... We provide a wide range of Further Education opportunities, working from a strong base of creative, vocational and work-oriented courses, with a commitment to excellence in teaching, learning and training. EXPLORE MORE... Full-Time & Part-Time We provide a wide range of Further Education opportunities, working from a strong base of creative, vocational and Courses available work-oriented courses, with a commitment to excellence in teaching, learning and training. T: 021 425 5500 Download our prospectus at www.stjohnscollege.ie Full-Time & Part-Time T: 021 425 5500 E: [email protected] Courses available E: [email protected]: www.stjohnscollege.ie Download our prospectus at www.stjohnscollege.ie W: www.stjohnscollege.ie 10 April 30 – June 3, 2021 A historical look at the barriers that women in Ireland faced Provost (President) of Trinity Not because of gender, but due in its 429-year history. It was to one’s ability, experience and certainly the proudest day for vision. That is the true message our family, but aside from that, of equality. it was another massive step A different strand worth high- towards rewarding women for lighting is that Linda broke an- their ability. There was plenty other barrier – class. Our child- of praise from Mna na hEireann hood was quite an ordinary, in witnessing another glass happy, middle class experience ceiling being smashed. In the but our parents’ upbringings last twelve months, three other were very different. Both had HISTORY & women have taken the reigns to leave school at fourteen: My in Irish universities for only the mother out of poverty – her POLITICS first time. It is hard to get your father died and she was put to head around this considering the work. My father out of tradition Kieran Doyle academic excellence of so many – his father and grandfather Linda Doyle, the first female girls in schools. In her accep- were compositors and printers, Provost (President) of Trinity tance speech, Linda spoke about so my father was plucked out ach month I am grateful in its 429-year history. to have an opportunity “extraordinary days becoming of school to follow that line, to ‘write’ an article ordinary days”, looking forward whether he liked it or not. At The private Catholic Univer- one can do. But for decades Eabout history for the West Cork to when it will be normal for least the students of today who loosely were like councillors sity followed suit in 1898 and housewives were not given the People. This week, my sister women to be appointed to take up apprentices tend to be at a district level). It must be Trinity rather belatedly in 1904. opportunity or encouragement Linda Doyle ‘made’ history high-powered positions. Not given a choice or an opportunity said that the barrier to vote for Whatever about registering as a to pursue the desires of their by becoming the first female just in education, but across the to finish school first, allowing national parliament was not spectrum of fields in Ireland. them to mature and be better just based on gender. Since the female student, women in pro- own life’s journey. I was bless- prepared for adulthood. Fortu- emergence of elective gov- fessorships were also unheard ed with a mother who nurtured nately both my parents found a ernments, other factors such of. Cork woman Mary Ryan us full-time at home; but sadly, CHRISTOPHER way to go back to college later as one’s religion, how much became the first female to earn a in the cultural context I have in their adult lives and fulfilled property one owned and one’s professorship in Ireland when in outlined, she gave up her job a desire for higher education, age were hurdles that had to be 1910 she was appointed to the when she married. Thankfully, O’SULLIVAN T.D. something they passed onto us. overcome. Yet women’s right to Chair of Romance Languages at when we were older teenagers, Linda went to regular, ordinary, vote was the last one to fall on University College Cork. she did a diploma in women’s If I can be of any primary and secondary schools. the arduous and torturous road It was not just in education studies and then geology at assistance to you She worked every hour of the to the ballot box. Even then, and politics where women UCC, fulfilling a lifelong dream please do not hesitate summers to pay for her college when in 1918 the Holy Grail were discriminated, but a lot of that circumstances and the law fees. She is an example to looked set to be achieved, there everyday life situations. What had denied her. to get in contact. anyone that if you work hard was yet another stipulation for may be more shocking to some The mother and baby home CONSTITUENCY enough, with a focus, and use woman – you had to be thirty of our younger readers, is that scandal has not only unearthed your talent, then your goals can and own or occupy a property many restrictions remained how illegitimate children were OFFICE: be achieved. What gender you with a rateable value of five late into the 20th century. The treated by the state, but also 40 Ashe Street, are, where you went to school, pounds. This ensured large ‘Marriage Bar’ was a law shone a light of the sexual or whom your parents are, sways of the female population that legally required women morass that women were sub- Clonakilty. should be irrelevant. This can be remained voiceless on the na- working in public service jobs jected to. Society’s unhealthy (Closed to the public until an aspiring tale for many who tional scene. As Ireland was part to resign upon getting married. obsession with women’s Covid-19 restrictions are despair at barriers in their way of the UK at that time, these It seems ludicrous today to en- sexuality found its focal point in lifted) to achieving their full potential. were the same conditions as the visage such a law, even more so the incarceration of women who The world is changing. rest of Britain. When it came given that it was only revoked had children out of wedlock.

So how far has Ireland to election time, Constance in 1970. The private sector I have written about this in changed? Let us explore some Markievicz was elected for St held out until 1977. By then, detail previously as a separate of the historic gender barriers Patrick’s Ward in Dublin. How- a European ruling declared it topic, but it must be acknowl- that women faced in Ireland. ever, as she and her fellow Sinn illegal to discriminate in any edged as an important part of Universally, women’s en- Feiners were abstentionists, she employment on the grounds of the narrative in the restrictions franchisement was a long time did not take her seat at West- sex and marital status. Equal on women. Even inside the coming. The first green shoots minster. She was nevertheless pay for the same job carried out ‘sanctity’ of marriage, women began at local level. The ‘1898 made the first Labour Minister by both sexes only came into did not ‘own’ their own bodies. force in 1974. The damage had Once married, a man could k [email protected] Local Government Act’ allowed in the breakaway first Dail. This some women of property the was extremely fitting given her been done for a generation of insist on carnal affairs with his m right to vote and this act also years of work amongst the poor, women. It curtailed the careers wife whether she consented or 023 8811011 heralded an era for women to sit her support for unions and her of many of them but had long- not. It led to the ‘martial rape’ on Boards of Guardians (which role in helping starving families term consequences too. Short of many women, something that during the 1913 ‘Dublin Lock- careers meant low incomes was only legally made a crime out’ strikes. Once the Free State and paltry pensions. Even if in 1990 – the same year when came into existence in 1922, one wanted to apply for a new Ireland voted for its first female women were given full univer- job, an earlier act had already president, Mary Robinson. sal voting rights, something that barred married women from Most of these problems were British women had to wait for applying for employment in not Irish issues. They were until 1928, and as long as 1971 local authority services. A lot universal. Society has advanced in Switzerland. of this had been influenced by globally on so many matters, While the vote was and a key component of the 1937 from gender, to race, to labour remains an important landmark Constitution. Article 42.1 stated and employment rights. It’s an for the advancement of women, ‘By her life within the home, advancing tide that continues to many other institutions that had woman gives to the State a erode centuries of injustice and DO NOT RENEW YOUR HOME OR been formerly only the preserve support without which the com- ignorance. Yet there are many MOTOR INSURANCE POLICY WITHOUT of men were chipped away at mon good cannot be achieved’. parts of the global who have slowly. Again, it was in Ireland While it didn’t say a woman’s yet to deliver the social change CONTACTING US FOR A QUOTE and not on the mainland where role is in the home, it created that defines a fair, equal, safe another ceiling was broken. In a legal and social environment and prosperous society. More Barrack Street, Bantry • (027) 52233 1877 the King’s and Queen’s to limit women’s advancement must and will be done. I write Bridge Street, Dunmanway • (023) 8845185 College of Ireland (now the into the workplace. I believe a the history. Linda, you have Bridge Street, Skibbereen • (028) 21272 Royal College of Physicians homemaker (female or male) made history. As we used to say of Ireland), allowed women to is one of the most honourable, growing up in Cork City, “Well register to take medical degrees. vital and still undervalued jobs done girl”. April 30 – June 3, 2021 11 Clonakilty Credit Union is there to support you lonakilty Credit Union, nearby. At a reduced rate of from home. This option has which is not driven by 7.9 per cent, students can now become very popular for many, QQI DAY COURSES COMMENCING SEPTEMBER 2021 profit and always tries to avail of a car loan to help them and people are now looking to Cput its members first, has been achieve their education goals. the future and thinking about at the heart of the community With the recent news of ways they can make their home through good times and bad. banks leaving Ireland and the office more user-friendly. Clon- QQI LEVEL 5 ✪ NEW Courses! 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Tenders are due Online Applications can be made through the website hive of commercial and leisure for to support the ongoing back by the end of the month, activity, and the Fisherman’s activities of this busy port. hopefully quality applications For more information please contact us. Pontoon is used by local fishers “Cork County Council will enable prompt progress to Telephone: 028-21644 Coordinator: Máire O’Sullivan as well as businesses and released tenders at the start of installation works before the [email protected] or [email protected] individuals pursuing marine April for works to replace the end of the year.” leisure, sea angling, and sea existing chain, install a new West Cork Campus of the Cork College of Commerce @westcorkcampus

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Credit Unions in the Republic of Ireland are regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. 12 April 30 – June 3, 2021 Just one-in-five Irish computer science graduates are women en thousand girls attend- Research Centre for Software Lero, research into the CodePlus they found young women who of NUI Galway’s School of Edu- “We need teachers and ing post primary schools in partnership with Trinity, initiative shows it positively participate in the 20-hour course cation said the goal of CodePlus students to sign up for CodePlus. throughout Ireland are NUI Galway and University of impacts female post primary were more likely to select a is to redress the imbalance in Young women are missing out Tbeing targeted to redress the Limerick (UL) over the next school students: “The Code- Computer Science course at CS graduates coming out of on great careers in Computer gender imbalance in the take-up 24 months. The programme is Plus programme is a powerful, third-level: “It is wonderful to Irish third-level colleges: “When Science and Computer Sceince of Computer Science in Ireland’s funded under the SFI Discover non-formal outreach project see these young women grow as you look at the percentages of needs more women designing third-level colleges. Programme and will encourage, encouraging adolescent girls the course progresses. Selection all undergraduate degrees in for and with women; develop- CodePlus, a Computer Sci- facilitate and provide opportuni- to explore careers in Computer of a CS course on their CAO Information and Communication ing and leading the way,” Dr ence (CS) outreach engagement ties to teenage female students to Science.” application became a real option Technologies (ICT) awarded to Connolly continued. project pioneered by Trinity engage with Computer Science. Professor Brendan Tang- for them, but more importantly, females over the last seven years Teachers, pupils and schools College Dublin, is to be rolled According to Clare McIn- ney, from the team at Trinity they felt they would be well able it is stuck at just 18 per cent, who want to participate in the out across the country by Lero, erney, Education and Public College Dublin who developed for a CS course.” and a lowly 20 per cent for CS CodePlus initiative should con- the Science Foundation Ireland Engagement Manager with the CodePlus programme, said Lero’s Dr Cornelia Connolly courses. [email protected] Remembering Fr James O’Callaghan 100 years on On Whit Sunday, May burgeoning Gaelic revival of the woken from their sleep by a ambulance at the bottom of the Rebel County but in 1917 he loud banging on the front door, hill. He was taken to the North 15, 1921, 38-year-old Fr had to leave Ballingeary behind followed by the sound of its Infirmary, where he clung to life James O’Callaghan was when he was appointed Chaplin glass panels shattering, as the until he finally passed away on shot dead by Crown to the Good Shepard Convent in Auxiliaries burst their way in. the following evening. Cork City. Fr O’Callaghan appeared on No one was ever brought to Forces in the house of In 1920 Fr O’Callaghan was the middle landing of the stairs, account for his murder. Liam de Róiste TD, on appointed Curate at the Church where he was confronted by There was a suggestion that the northside of Cork of the Most Precious Blood in armed men rushing up towards the callous killing was carried Clogheen, on the northside of him. Katie Kearney had bravely out by an RIC Auxiliary group City. Pauline Murphy Cork City. While waiting for left the safety of her room and from Shandon Street RIC marks the centenary of accommodation to be built, now flung herself in front of the Barracks, who were locally and his death with a look he, and his housekeeper Katie priest, reaching for one of the fearfully known as ‘The Charlie Kearney, took lodgings at the men’s scarves, to pull it from Chance Murder Gang’. at the life of this West home of Sinn Fein TD Liam de his face. This gang was led by a year. Cork native. Róiste, who resided at Upper A volley of shots rang out; a notorious figure called Sergeant The funeral of Fr O’Cal- Janemount in Sunday’s Well. bullet grazing Katie’s hand, as Charles Chance, who had a laghan was a large one; the r James O’Callaghan Like many involved in the she tried to shield Fr O’Cal- reputation for sadistic behaviour procession included several Fr O’Callaghan’s grave at was born near Newces- Republican movement, Liam laghan. However, the intruders on the streets of Cork. Chance organisations and GAA clubs, town, in the parish of de Róiste never slept at his were intent on violence and they was a target of the Cork IRA but Clogheen Church. along with brass bands and FTemplemartin, and took his own address for fear he would shot the priest dead, leaving escaped several attempts on his hundreds of clergymen. He laghan is still remembered in first steps to the priesthood at St be arrested, or worse. On the him in a pool of blood, before life. Following the truce in the was buried in the grounds of the locality with an annual Finbarr’s Seminary Cork before morning of May 15, 1921, the calmly departing the scene summer of 1921, the notorious Clogheen Church, where he anniversary mass and wreath going on to St Patrick’s May- only people in the house were and disappearing into the dark Sergeant Chance left Cork, nev- had been curate for only seven laying ceremony. nooth, where he was ordained in Fr O’Callaghan, Katie Kearney, streets of the city. er to answer for his war crimes. months. Katie Kearney, who dis- 1908 and dispatched to England Mrs de Róiste and her elderly Neighbours rushed to the de Fr O’Callaghan was one of In 1971 the 50th anniversary played immense courage on the for his first ministry. mother. Róiste house and tried to help three priests killed by Crown of Fr O’Callaghan’s death was night of Fr O’Callaghan’s mur- In 1912, Fr O’Callaghan re- It was just after 4am when the slain priest. An ambulance Forces during the War of remembered with the dedication der, was a native of Inchigeela. turned to his native soil when he a group of RIC Auxileries, was called but it was unable Independence; Canon Magner of a Celtic cross over his resting Katie lived until 1976 but never was appointed to the Gaeltacht masked with scarves, made to proceed up the steep incline was shot dead on a Dunmanway place at Clogheen church. A forgot that dreadful night. village of Ballingeary, where his their way up Buxton’s Hill, of Buxton’s Hill. Instead, with roadside in 1920 by drunken GAA club named in his honour love of Gaelic life and language which led to Upper Janemount. the help of the neighbours, Auxiliaries and a Fr Griffin was was founded in the Clogheen flourished. He became a popular The occupants in the de Fr O’Callaghan was wrapped abducted from his home and area. Unfortunately the club and influential figure in the Róiste home were abruptly in blankets and carried to the murdered in Galway the same is now defunct but Fr O’Cal- Consider the plight of reporters and journalists who put their lives in danger to deliver the news By Clonakilty the gutter press and dis- 2009; one of 21 since Putin be- how these arrests affect the rest hard to show us what happens. Amnesty Group dain it. But do we under- came to power. Now journalists of our world. They hit a new We can accept it or ignore it. We stand enough about the have been detained in Myanmar high in 2020, as governments have the choice. But reporters o we distin- reporters and journalists for reporting about protests. cracked down on coverage of or journalists can die for bring- guish between who report situations as Would we know about this COVID-19 or tried to suppress ing it to us. Reporters without reporters and they see them, bringing upheaval if it were not for the reporting on political unrest. Borders, also to be found Djournalists? Reporters what facts they can. They integrity of those reporting. Do Authoritarians again took cover online says, ‘Journalism (is) the are those who conduct work to bring the news we take the media for granted or in anti-press rhetoric from the vaccine against disinformation interviews for the press or from places we will never visit, dismiss it as fake news? United States. Two hundred and (and is) blocked in more than broadcasting media. Journal- where human rights are denied, If you wish to help our seventy four Journalists were 130 countries.’ Disturbing food ists are those who write for which make their work risky to protests do log in to Amnesty imprisoned last year. We could for thought… newspapers, magazines or news their own survival. online. fill this space 10 times over with Amnesty meetings in websites or who prepare news Should we care? Possibly it So, this article asks you to the stories of what reporters and O’Donovan’s hotel are discon- to be broadcast. Reporters are would make life easier if we think of the plight of journalists cameramen and women have tinued temporarily. If you want a subset of journalists. Many could turn our backs on the and reporters who have been endured and suffered. more information call Sue on journalists work as reporters but unpalatable facts from far away punished, imprisoned and killed We, in Amnesty Internation- 023 884505 or Derry on 086 not all reporters are journalists. – but we live in a global society, for their internationally rec- al, write on behalf of detained 2227616. Both are necessary. even if we wish we didn’t. ognised work, who were and are journalists and reporters and found on the Amnesty website However we seem to divide Twenty-one Russian journalists, jailed globally because of their cameramen and women. But and we hope you will join us in the two groups into salacious including Anna Politkovskaya, work. It is easy to hear the news this month we are not giving any way you can. and/or worthy – we all know who was shot – murdered – in on radio or TV and not realise individual cases – they can be Journalists, reporters, work April 30 – June 3, 2021 13 “Early American senses of ‘freedom’ The formation of The Texas Rangers fundamentally depended upon the taking of Native lands….” – Jeffrey Ostler coming years was an all-out brutal war: A war that stemmed from the Native Americans acting in self-defense. They were protecting their land and did so remarkably well. So well in fact that, as there was Clonakilty’s finest interiors store no regular army, a new force was created in order to keep the Comanche at bay and protect LIVING & DINING THE HISTORY the settlers during their journey West. BEDS & & POLITICS MATTRESSES Stephen F. Austin, an em- CORNER pressario, put together a group of 10 men whose duty was to Shane Daly ‘range’ the land and protect the settlers from attacks. Soon after Jack Hays CURTAINS Shane Daly is a History they became informally known & BLINDS Graduate from University as ‘Rangers’ and formally College Cork, with a BAM known as ‘The Texas Rangers’ in History and an MA in Irish in 1835. Before commenting History. on the Rangers, some context CARPETS, is needed around the need for VINYLS & their creation. RUGS he claiming of land in In 1783, American settlers the West of America began their century-long westward expansion, largely by Professional Design Service available by by white settlers is an Trevor Perrott BA (HONS) Interior Achitecture & Design Toften-romanticised notion massacring Native Americans brought about by popular and stealing their lands. The Clogheen Industrial Park, www.perrotts.ie media. Books, documentaries US government at the time Clonakilty. P85 W303 and television shows can often sanctioned this and authorised T: 023 8850855 M: 086 2420602 E: [email protected] skew the view of reality. If one more than 1,500 wars, attacks and raids on Indians; the most Closed Mondays. takes a step back and analyses Open Tuesday-Saturday by appointment. the facts, the reality of the sit- of any country in the world uation is far from romantic. In against its indigenous people. fact, the chasm between reality When Columbus arrived in 1492, it’s estimated that there and what is often portrayed of prey. In 1862, on the orders were five million to 15 million and, in fact, many, such as the is striking. Case in point is of President Abraham Lincoln, indigenous people living in Comanche, were successful the story of how The Texas 38 Dakota Indians were hanged North America. The number in defending their lands and West Cork Rangers were formed in 1823 in Mankato, Minnesota; still to had declined sharply to less keeping the settlers at bay. Un- Supported Employment Agency in response to the deaths of this day, it is the largest mass than 238,000 by the late 19th til the formation of the Texas white settlers travelling West to execution in US history. century. Rangers. Are you looking for work? claim land, at the hands of the Jeffrey Ostler is a profes- An entire people were in At the time, the US govern- Comanche. sor of Northwest and Pacific You may be eligible for this service. danger of being wiped out ment allowed the surveying The lands in the West were History at the University Please contact your local office because the US government of land – anyone who wanted already inhabited. The Native of Oregon and he has spent for more information felt they were uncivilised land, could simply go out and American people were there almost 30 years researching and the settler would bring take it. They just needed to Bantry (Head Office) first. It was their land. They and teaching the incredibly travel out West, survey the land 086 8126324 and 086 8079953 hunted on it and lived off of civilisation to the West. The nuanced and incendiary history they wanted and then claim it; Skibbereen 086 8158786 it – they had lived a nomadic, land grab came at the expense of what happened on the Great it was entirely legal and, most 086 8101795 somewhat hunter-gatherer of Native American life, which Bandon Plains. Ostler’s conclusion is importantly, free. Huge num- lifestyle on it for centuries. That the US government and settlers Kinsale 086 6007964 that the wars the US govern- bers of people travelled West is not to say that there wasn’t believed was inconsequential. Clonakilty 086 8395058 and 086 6031335 ment waged against Native in order to claim land, which is fighting in the West before the The 1830 Indian Relocation Americans from the 1600s to why the Indian Wars began. settlers arrived, because there Act compelled south-eastern the 1900s differed in a funda- As previously mentioned, was; tribes of Native Americans Indian tribes to move from east mental way from this country’s Stephen F. Smith initially put fought amongst themselves for of the Mississippi River to the other contemporaneous con- together a group of 10 men. up with a prototype of a five Samuel Colt became one territory, as well as superior- west; a journey that was over- flicts. “Against Native nations shot pistol in the early 1830s. It of the richest men in America ity on the plains. However, it seen and controlled by army Jack Hays, a surveyor himself, and communities,” he says, “it became known as the five shot and Jack Hays and the Texas wasn’t until the white settlers and militia patrols. Between was appointed leader of the was genocidal war.” And from Patterson Colt. Jack Hays and Rangers redefined warfare. made their way West that their 1830 and 1850, the govern- Rangers in 1840 and became a the beginning, he believes, the Rangers got hold of these Before Jack Hays people came focus was no longer inward, ment forced nearly 100,000 good leader of men. US leaders understood and guns and immediately knew it into the West on foot carrying but directed outward, at the Native Americans to leave The Rangers learned embraced this grim viewpoint. meant equalising the warfare a Kentucky Long Rifle. After land-grabbing invaders. their homelands, thousands of Commanche techniques, However, they concealed against the Comanches. Now Jack Hays, they came mounted As mentioned in previous whom died of disease, hunger such as using bird signs to their true aims with a series they had a five shot gun with and carrying a six shooter. columns, the Comanche were and cold. This dangerous track people, but though they of self-serving narratives built one interchangeable cylinder, The Comanche and the Na- an exceptionally skilled warrior journey later became known were a professional force that around the ideal of “civilisa- 10 shots in each gun. With 10 tive Americans quickly found people. This tribe of Native as the ‘Trail of Tears’ and is a generally excelled at warfare, tion”. In the beginning this was shots in their left hand and 10 themselves on the losing side Americans was at the forefront harrowing tale in itself. What’s they had one problem, they had portrayed as a precious and shots in their right hand, in and within a very short period of defending the West during more, Native Americans were only three shots. Their only necessary gift the colonisers close hand combat the advan- of time their lands had been the battle of the Great Fron- seriously discriminated against weapons against Comanches were offering to indigenous tage completely shifted. This forcibly removed from them, tier. Because of the Coman- and the killing of them was on horseback, who had perfect- populations. Later, “defending gun was so efficient at doing its their livelihoods taken away, che’s skill and proficiency on not only encouraged but it was ed the art of firing as many as civilisation” would be cited as job that the US government or- and they were confined to live horseback, the settlers were rewarded. George Washington, 10 arrows in five seconds, were justification to kill them. dered what became the Walker on reservations. This in turn at an incredible disadvantage the first president of the United a Kentucky Long Rifle and two Of course, the intention Colt 6 shooter for the Mexican meant that they suffered pov- and suffered huge numbers of States, described Indians as single shot pistols. Therefore, to commit genocide is not War. Samuel Walker, a famous erty, malnutrition and low rates fatalities when venturing West being like the “Wild Beast of initially, the Rangers were at an in order to steal Comanche and sufficient to ensure its success. Texas Ranger, and Samuel Colt of economic development, the the Forest” and the “Wolf” incredible disadvantage. That other Native American’s land. Native nations and communi- joined forces in order to win effects of which remain evident because they were both beasts is until an inventor on the West What transpired in the ties persisted for many years coast named Samuel Colt came the war in the West. today. 14 April 30 – June 3, 2021

he Cairde Clonakilty and video calls between family news websites such as www. Community Hospital members and their loved ones. westcorkpeople.ie to ensure they Technology heralds new dawn for group this week presented The tablets will be given initially can continue to be interested Tsix Acorn Age Friendly tablets to to six residents for their own and involved in their local residents in Clonakilty Hospital the hospital connecting residents personalised individual use, communities. Family members’ and families through the use of with assistance being provided phones can be connected directly age-friendly technology. The by staff at the hospital to ensure to the tablet ensuring easy to voluntary group, which supports maximum use and engagement use video calls, messaging and the hospital in enhancing the by each resident and their regular sharing of photos which quality of life for residents, has family. The Cairde group plan to keep loved ones connected begun a roll-out of delivery provide all residents who wish and together through the use of of individualised devices with to use a tablet with their own de- innovative technology.” companion apps for download vice when the initial trial phase Mary Nolan Director of Nurs- by family members; for residents is completed over the coming ing at the HSE facility spoke of to enjoy a range of services weeks. her appreciation to the Cairde such as local newspapers, Speaking to the West Cork group for the gift of tablets, online local religious services People this week, Cairde which can foster and facilitate and age-friendly entertainment Chairman and former Minister greater connectedness between games and activities. In addition for Older People Jim Daly ex- the residents and their loved to a wide range of popular pressed his desire to see the use ones. “We at Clonakilty Com- services for elderly people, the of this technology as a means of munity Hospital are enormously age-friendly tablet also has a connecting elderly residents with grateful to the Cairde committee companion app for download on their families and communities. for this project which we see as family members’ phones, which “These tablets will connect res- hugely beneficial in connecting allows for seamless and easy idents with their local churches families with their loved ones communication via messaging for live services, as well as during these challenging times.” Jim Daly, Chairman, Cairde Clonakilty Community Hospital making a presentation of Acorn Age Friendly tablets to Mary Nolan, Director of Nursing, Clonakilty Comunity Hospital. Photo: Martin Walsh. Knockawaddra residents calling for fibre broadband

even kilometres from very difficult to run with poor internationally, and particularly Clonakilty, in the town- broadband speed. Lesley and catering to the remote worker. land of Knockawaddra her family have numerous It was during lockdown, when Sin Ballingurteen, neighbours issues, which include only one Emma, her partner and two and business women, Lesley person being able to use any daughters, were all trying to Cox and Emma Fitzpatrick, device at a time with every- work and school online that Emma Fitzpatrick, have launched a campaign thing else turned off, and Zoom the weakness of her broadband to speed up the rolling out of for school or work use almost became apparent. “We would school work online, she has to fibre broadband, which stops impossible. never know if we could get drive up the hill and use mobile 1km away from them. Locals Lesley and Emma have onto Zoom; I would dread data. Emma has managed to are looking for a reliable collected 56 names on their there being a puff of wind, keep her weekly online eve- broadband connection, in an petition from locals who repeat which might cause my screen ning adult and teenage shiatsu area, which is considered a similar stories of the challenges to freeze during a consultation classes going by using a closed ‘black spot’ where connection of poor connection; of school or class – it was so stressful!” shop premises but this is only a is unstable, unreliable, and for kids not being able to access They upgraded to a mobile temporary solution. Emma and family, non-exis- school work online, work broadband package, which “It’s really unacceptable, tent. courses needing to be done seemed to work well until a frustrating and depressing While the government has elsewhere, jobs being lost due gale blew up and resulted in in this day and age when set out an ambitious action plan to inadequate speeds and, of an eventual loss of connection. we are being asked to work to rejuvenate over 600 ru- money spent trying to change They have been without broad- from home and want to work Emma Fitzpatrick’s daughters Lucéa and Róisín Mae. ral and regional towns all over providers, installing booster band for six weeks having from home, but are not being Ireland, without a more reliable systems and so on, all to no tried every possible alternative given adequate support or the locals, yet after several email The residents of Knock- form of broadband to service avail. The solution they say is provider, including satellite, infrastructure to facilitate this and phone conversations, they awaddra are calling for the rural areas these initiatives will fibre broadband, which stops a even contacting Elon Musk via in rural areas!” When Emma are not being given a date for immediate roll out of fibre not reach their targets. Fibre mere one kilometre away from Tesla, but no-one could guar- tried to reinstall her previous roll-out. Lesley and Emma broadband to their local area, a broadband guarantees optimal them. antee adequate upload speeds. fixed line broadband but the have contacted TDs from all recognised ‘black spot’, which speeds for rural areas and a Emma, a shiatsu practitioner It means that Emma’s business engineer refused, as they were the major local parties and have would enable Emma and Les- National Broadband Initiative and ear acupuncturist moved has almost ground to a halt, deemed 2km too far away gained great support from local ley and many others to finally is currently rolling this out over her wellness business online in as her sessions require a space from the mast, she decided residents who have been living be able to properly work from a nine-year period. response to Covid, opening up to demonstrate stretches and to launch a campaign out of with the stress that unstable home and fully participate in Lesley is an artist who has exciting opportunities offering self-massage techniques. In or- desperation. The frustrating broadband has caused for many modern day life in a connected recently set up an online art shiatsu consultations and der to send emails for work or thing Emma says is that it is a years. and fulfilling way! business, which is proving classes locally, nationally and for her daughters to complete mere 1km away, closer to most Irish Govt Billy Kelleher. “We then expect Member States challenges, such as linking groundwork done in advance. past 14 months. “Also crucially, Kelleher was commenting as to take up to six weeks to roll out data from the HSE in terms of “What must not happen is Irish people will want to travel, cannot delay the European Parliament was their systems, in alignment with vaccinations, PCR testing, and the other 26 EU members begin take a break and see family living finalising its position ahead of agree EU guidelines. All going current/prior virus status, and data operating the scheme, and Ireland overseas. The Green Digital roll out of Digital negotiations with the Commission well the DGCs should be available from private providers. being left behind. Certificate must be in operation by and European Council next week. by mid-July. “However, the question really “Whether we like it or not, mid-July - no ifs, no buts, and no Green Cert “Good work is being undertaken “Sadly, there have been reports needs to be asked, why is Ireland international travel and tourism maybes. at Parliament level this week. in the Irish media that the Irish always the slowest to implement are part of our economic future. “Every resource of the State, “The Irish Government must Based on previously announced Government will not be in a new and innovative technology Hundreds of thousands of jobs are and if necessary, private support, ensure that there is no delay in timelines, it is expected that the position to rollout the certificates solutions? A certificate of this at stake. Hospitality businesses must be deployed to make it the rollout of the Digital Green trilogue negotiations will conclude until August at the earliest. Some nature has been on the cards since across Ireland desperately need happen on time,” concluded Certificate,” said Fianna Fáil MEP by the end of May. have mentioned technological the New Year so why was no tourists to recoup the losses of the Kelleher. April 30 – June 3, 2021 15 OUT & ABOUT IN WEST CORK

Four-year-old Kai Corcoran at play on Kinsale Beach Pic Michael Mac Sweeney/Provision

Spring was in the air when a lamb visited Ardfield NS. Pupil Alice Applebee (pictured with her dad John) proudly showed her classmates the ram she help to lamb on her family farm.

Pearse Nolan (back) with Aidan (left) and Cillian (right) Whooley, all from Clonakilty, at Clonakilty Park Adventure Centre.

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NOW RE-OPENED! 023 8836400 [email protected] James and Daniel Andrews from Bantry at Clonakilty Park Adventure Centre. 16 April 30 – June 3, 2021 people Enterprising West Cork Start your own wellness journey with BWELLHIVE certified nutritionist and “He cried non-stop with no After qualifying as a Assisting clients overcome health coach, Michelle cure in sight,” she explains. “I nutritional therapist in 2011, specific symptoms through Ryan is the founder of was desperate to assist him in Michelle developed her clinic coaching; and B-Weight-Wise ABWELLHIVE, a health and any way possible, which was practice working with clients – Assisting clients to align with wellness consultancy business the driving force that led me needing assistance around di- their ideal body weight. serving corporates, commu- later on to study nutrition in a gestive health, helping them to Michelle is passionate about nities and private clients who bid to understanding why he boost their energy and achieve making a difference in the lives want to live a life of optimum was suffering and how I could weight loss. of the people around her using health and wellness. fix it.” On experiencing a downturn ‘real’ sustainable food and Originally from Limerick, She went on to work with in business in 2013, Michelle nutrition as the key to wellness Michelle lives in Clonakilty West Cork LEADER, which took it as an opportunity to and peace of mind. “Moving with her family, which is opened opportunities through upskill and re-train, returning the focus from farm to fork where, after leaving a career in learning about West Cork to work in the corporate world to soil to gut,” she explains corporate London behind, her Fuchsia Brand and the Slow until 2019, where she invest- simply. love affair with nutrition and Food Movement before going ed time into developing and “The global pandemic has healthy food began. In 2003, on to study with the College increasing her knowledge in been a wake-up call to take Michelle’s son was born with of Naturopathic Medicine and sales, marketing and business action and the lockdown has chronic digestive problems. Nutritional Therapy. strategy. given people time to change During this time she contin- their habits. I can facilitate ued working behind the scenes, health for people of all ages coaching clients back to health and circumstances. and continuously increasing her In 10 years time, Michelle’s knowledge around food and hope is that BWELLHIVE will locally sourced produce. She be established throughout Cork also joined the Network Ireland and beyond Ireland providing Coaching to B•Healthy, West Cork group and relooked top-class wellness, and tailored at starting another business in one-on-one programmes B•Well and B•Weight Wise health. “The Network West including another service with in order to feel great and B•Awesome! Cork group was a vital cog 24/7 access over the phone, in the development of my an easily accessible dedicated 3-in-1 Corporate Health & Wellness Programmes business through the support it affordable Health Coach. This provided,” says Michelle. would include an online mem- • Private 1-to-1 health coaching programmes In the development phase bership, assessment, tailored of BWELLHIVE, Michelle fitness, nutrition and wellbeing • Wellness in the Corporate Workplace Voucher from LEO to upscale and becoming more focused on continuously noted that many her website (bwellhive.ie) the CEO health model (How programmes. • Wellness & Weightloss programmes busy professional men and and digital process and make to become the leader of your In her own life during this • Facebook group online programmes woman in managerial and CEO it easier for clients to avail own health, and know when pandemic; Michelle enjoys • 21-day challenges, meal plans & recipes roles with families were feeling of BWELLHIVE services. something is not right). This walking in nature with the fam- unbalanced, more often over- Throughout the pandemic, Mi- is included in the one-on-one ily’s new dog Holly. “I totally • 4-week and 6-week health & nutrition classes whelmed like she had been, chelle has continued to provide personalised health plan and relax and wind down and really and mostly stressed, lacking community talks, supporting model, group programme and enjoy what nature provides. Are you feeling unwell and suffering from reflux, energy and unable to cope with employees and community also in the workplace well- It’s great when you have a digestive bloating or tummy pains? Have you put home and work-life balance members on how to manage ness programmes offered by problem or you’re looking for a on weight? Are you lacking energy and feeling whilst trying to juggle it all. stress, overwhelm and reduce BWELLHIVE. This model solution; it gives me quiet time overwhelmed? Are you looking for support to A ‘Start Your Own Busi- weight loss by sharing how by has brought the business great and the answer always follows manage stress and reduce weight loss? ness Course’ and ‘Woman in creating healthy habits you can success. naturally. This allows me to If you need help to transform your health Business Programme’ with create a healthier way of life to The three core areas in the also avoid chaos in my life and and life with a Healthy Life Plan, LEO helped her develop the feel awesome. BWELLHIVE business model instill good health and wellness BWELLHIVE brand and habits. get in contact for a free consultation call: The BWELLHIVE business are: B-Healthy – Assisting cli- business model. In 2020, she [email protected] / 087 6704930 model and framework is grow- ents with overall health through availed of the Trading Online ing from strength to strength proper nutrition; B-Well – www.bwellhive.ie May Network West Cork event will focus on effective messaging skills for business ommunication is Queen uses with her clients, which has just completed Enterprise all aspects of your career or according to Network include Laya Healthcare and Ireland’s New Frontiers Phase business from networking to Ireland West Cork, a Failte Ireland. 2 course and she’s about to start writing pitches and posting on Cprogressive organisation that “Recent advances in neuro- Phase 3. “We’re designing and social media. Whether you are supports women in business. science have revealed we don’t building our software in the self-employed, an employee The group’s next event, on May remember content unless we next few months,” she explains, or an employer – you need to 26, is a specialist workshop on connect emotionally with it,” “and we’ll be looking for cus- use effective messaging in your crafting effective messaging. explains Marie. “At Emotionise tomers to trial it as soon as it’s business and personal life to Leading the event is esteemed we specialise in helping people launched. Content marketing achieve your goals. In line with content expert Marie Toft who find that emotional connection is a huge growth area so we’re this thinking, award-winning, will share her knowledge to to their target audience. They keen to give people the skills multi-disciplined content creator enable the audience to leverage could be your customers, your to create emotionally engaging and communications executive effective communication tools colleagues, your boss, or your Marie Toft, founder and CEO of Emotionise content more quickly.” Marie Toft will share secrets of in all aspects of their life and employees. We’ve developed To represent yourself and crafting effecting messaging. the event with Network Ireland content that really connects career. Marie Toft, founder and the Emotionise Process which your business well, a carefully This event, hosted by West Cork. Anyone who is in- emotionally.” CEO of Emotionise, developed can be applied to any form of and strategically crafted plan Network Ireland West Cork terested in communicating their Marie also revealed that the ‘Emotionise Process’, a communications or messaging. is hugely important. Getting is open to all, ticket details on message should be able to apply she is digitising and scaling content creation process she I’m really looking forward to your message right will benefit Eventbrite. the Emotionise process to create the Emotionise Process. She April 30 – June 3, 2021 17 people Enterprising West Cork Outdoor recreation Decluttering project funding open pplications are now open hiking/mountaineering, cycling, academy born for funding outdoor horse-riding, canoeing/kayak- recreation projects to ing, swimming, surfing, sailing, Asupport the adventure tourism rock-climbing, fishing, paragliding sector in rural communities, Cork and hang-gliding. out of pandemic South West Deputy Christopher The fund will also provide O’Sullivan says. for significant investment in the The €14 million in funding, development of outdoor trails, provided under the Outdoor Rec- walkways, cycleways, blueways, reation and Infrastructure Scheme, tidal pools, floating boardwalks and ARE YOU STUCK, will support the key objectives of bridleways. OVERWHELMED, Our Rural Future – the Govern- Applicants are strongly encour- ment’s ambitious new policy for aged to consider opportunities to FRUSTRATED AND Rural Ireland. develop recreational amenities and EMBARRASSED BY YOUR “This funding announcement increase public access and enjoy- CLUTTER BUT DON’T will support outdoor recreation ment of rural Ireland’s mountains, tourism and further its potential to lakes, rivers, forests, beaches and KNOW WHERE TO START? have major economic spin-off ben- bogs. Sign up to my step-by -step efits for rural towns and villages,” Projects applications will be Deputy O’Sullivan said. accepted from Local Authorities membership site today! “I believe Cork has the potential under the following Measures: hite Sage Declut- Marie to help clients declutter to be the outdoor, adventure-tour- * Measure 1 for small scale tering is becoming their homes online. ANNE MARIE KINGSTON ism capital of the world. And while projects requiring funding of up to a household name, “It took a world pandemic for Ireland’s No. 1 Professional Declutterer this funding is a significant boost to €20,000, Wnot just here in West Cork but me to take my business online outdoor recreation tourism, it will * Measure 2 for medium scale all over Ireland. The creator and get over my techy dinosaur Connect with me: also benefit and improve the health projects with funding of up to and well-being of rural commu- €200,000, and founder of this successful issues,” she laughs. “It’s so easy www.whitesagedecluttering.com business and Clonakilty’s aptly to keep doing what feels com- E nities.” * Measure 3 for large-scale projects whitesagedecluttering Nationally the €14 million seeking funding of up to €500,000, named ‘Queen of Decluttering’ fortable and safe and yet there is Q in funding is to develop rural and Project Development Measure Anne Marie Kingston, has just so much potential out there with whitesagedecluttering Ireland’s unique natural ameni- funding of up to €50,000 for de- celebrated her fourth year in taking your business online.” Email: [email protected] ties and support outdoor pursuits velopment costs for strategic large business, providing a one-on- Having the support of her and adventure activities such as scale projects. one decluttering service to business network group Net- so I was forced to move online. ty of like-minded women with clients in West Cork and Cork work Ireland West Cork behind The response to launching plenty of cheerleaders sup- County, as well as nationwide. her has been of huge benefit to White Sage Academy has been porting each other,” says Anne O’Sullivan calls for With the challenges brought Anne Marie. “Only for having incredible and it’s still growing.” Marie. by the pandemic, like so many business supports behind me Anne Marie now continues to Anne Marie plans to grow re-opening of caravan parks other businesses, Anne Marie and my business mentor Sarah support clients with accountabil- White Sage Academy member- was forced out of her comfort Leather of Saviee Solutions ork South West deputy attractions like Mizen Head and ity, motivation, inspiration and ship over the coming months zone and has taken her business giving me the loving shove, this Christopher O’Sullivan is the Beara Peninsula, the lack of her passion for decluttering, but and years to support women all online, a move which has not would not have been possible,” calling for caravan parks to facilities is causing real problems. instead of offering a hands-on over the world with letting go of Cbe reopened following the easing “Caravan parks are spacious, only helped her business to admits Anne Marie. service, everything takes place their personal clutter. of restrictions on county-wide safe and contained. Families are survive but to thrive and has “I was maxed out with my online. Go to www.whitesagede- travel. kept together as a unit. birthed the White Sage Acade- decluttering sessions as I was, “Each month we have a cluttering.com for more details The call follows a busy week- “People are coming anyway, my, a paid online membership travelling to do hands-on de- monthly themes session cov- about joining the Academy. end for in-county travel which but they’re being forced to park on that has welcomed clients from cluttering sessions with clients ering each and every area of Anne Marie is an active saw a sizeable amount of people roadsides and in parks. Caravans all over the world into Anne three days a week, as well as the home with weekly training member with Network Ireland visiting popular West Cork locales. have nowhere to set up other than Marie’s decluttering diary. supporting my husband on our videos, weekly zoom group de- West Cork and network branch “Opening caravan parks makes by the side of the road. There are The step-by-step decluttering dairy farm and looking after our sense,” Deputy O’Sullivan said. no toilet facilities, and there’s an cluttering sessions and monthly winner for 2020. membership offered by White children. But then Covid hit and “While it’s great to see more increasing problem with waste decluttering challenges, in a safe Sage Academy allows Anne visitors at West Cork’s stunning disposal.” I was no longer able to travel and non judgemental communi-

Whether you are a start-up or an established business, we are here to support and assist you throughout 2021:

10 Steps to Self Employment Programme: Brexit Support Clinics: Women in Business Programme 2021: Ideal programme for someone with a business idea 1 hour appointments with our Brexit Consultant Expressions of interest are now open for this programme. who wants to know more about being self employed – Is your business Brexit ready? It is suitable for those trading with 12 months plus who and entrepreneurship. are growing or diversifying their business. Trading Online Voucher Scheme 2021: Business Advice Appointments: Under the scheme an eligible small business may Start Your Own Business Programme: 1 hour appointments with our Business Adviser apply for funding up to a maximum value of €2,500 or The programme will guide you through the steps – Ideal for start-up or established businesses. 50% of eligible expenditure. You must partake in an involved in setting up, managing and running, your own information webinar before applying for the scheme. business.

With all of our events free of charge and online, our supports are nearer than ever to you and your business. Please check our website for an up-to-date schedule of events and supports: www.localenterprise.ie/corknorthandwest Personal information collected by Cork County Council is done so in order for us to Contact us today for more information: process your representation/enquiry and legally we can process it as it is necessary for us to comply with our statutory/legal obligations. The information will be processed T: 023-8834700 E: [email protected] W: www.localenterprise.ie/corknorthandwest in line with our privacy statement which is available on our website www.corkcoco.ie 18 April 30 – June 3, 2021 people Farming Agri-food strategy 2030: Targets set for the next decade by Tommy Moyles methane is methane produced not to exceed 325,000t by 2030 by livestock and the draft strat- under the strategy. Currently the new agri-food strategy egy is aiming for a reduction national use of chemical nitro- for the coming years is of between 24 per cent and 47 gen use stands at 380,500t, so set to change the focus per cent by 2050. The short this implies a cut of 55,500t is Aof Irish agriculture. The draft of term target is a 10 per cent needed in nitrogen use by 2030. the strategy marks a sharp con- reduction by 2030. Keeping a The area under organic trast to the growth and consoli- cap on cattle numbers has been farming is targeted to reach at dation aspirations contained in flagged with sometime. In ‘Ag least 7.5 per cent of farmland previous strategies such as Food Climatise’ the national climate by 2030. As it stands, less than Harvest 2020 and Foodwise and air roadmap for the agricul- two per cent of Irish farmland, 2025 and shows how much the ture sector it is made clear that in the region of 74,000ha, is view of agriculture has evolved an increase in the total national under organic production. By over the last decade. Indeed cattle herd above current levels 2027, 90 per cent of all slurry Food harvest 2020 was viewed will result in failure to achieve application is to be carried out as the key strategy in kick-start- these targets. by low-emission equipment and ing the national economy in the Under the strategy, 10 per all external slurry stores are to A draft of the new agri-food strategy 2030 has been released for public consultation. aftermath of the 2008 financial cent of farmed land is to be be covered by 2027 to mitigate Compared to previous strategies it focusing more on the environment than production. crash. prioritised for biodiversity. ammonia emissions. Pic: Tommy Moyles Among the headline targets The most up-to-date Central More targeted agri-environ- Statistics Office (CSO) data on mental results-based schemes are a trebling of the current ue (HNV) farmland, large areas friendly and could result in it will be interesting to see how utilised agricultural area dates are proposed under the CAP’s level of organic production, a of which exist in the western farmers planting trees along this develops. from 2016 and it says there is Rural Development Programme cut of 55,000 tons in artificial areas of west Cork. watercourses, new native wood- The strategy is currently open 4,455,800ha of farmland in (RDP). These are to protect and fertiliser use and a stipulation A revised afforestation lands or small forest areas. for public consultation ahead the country. This means that enhance habitats and species. that 10 per cent of farmland is scheme will be implemented A new concept mentioned in of its finalising. Any member 445,580ha would be earmarked It is likely that these will work given over to biodiversity. also. As part of this, afforesta- the strategy is Carbon trading. of the public can submit their for biodiversity – an area almost similar to the locally-led envi- Among the recommendations tion options will be examined The Ag-Climatise roadmap pro- views on the strategy until the size of Co Tipperary. ronmental schemes such as the is a 10 per cent reduction in bio- on State-owned lands, building poses a pilot scheme for carbon 15 June 2021 by emailing Use of chemical nitrogen is renowned ‘BRIDE project’ in genic methane, which roughly on initiatives from Coillte and trading to reward farmers for 2030StrategyEnvironmental- also in for a targeted reduction. east Cork. Areas targeted under translates into a reduction of Bord na Móna. The new options the public good they are pro- [email protected]. According to the strategy, these results-based programme 400,000 head in the number of are likely to be more farmer viding. It’s not as recognisable ie. cattle on Irish farms. Biogenic annual chemical nitrogen use is include areas of high nature val- a term or indeed a practice so Source: Irish Farmers Journal New project launched to measure Farmers warned of UV sunlight cancer risks rish farmers have a three When the UV index is three carbon harvesting potential of Irish soils times higher cancer mortal- and above, you need to protect ity than blue or white collar your skin, even if it is cloudy. UV uilding on the recent The recent addition of both Centre for Data Analytics, UCD Commenting on their invest- Iworkers, with UV sunlight skin is strongest between April and investment by the De- national and EU greenhouse and Teagasc Moorepark. ment in the project, Jim Beecher, cancer being a significant cause September, and between 11am partment of Agriculture, gas (GHG) emission reduction Welcoming the announcement, Chairman of Dairy Research of this heightened death rate. and 3pm. You can check the UV BFood and the Marine to establish targets pose considerable chal- the Minister for Agriculture Food Ireland said, “Dairy Research According to Dr Triona index on the Met Eireann website the National Agricultural Soil lenges for the Irish agricultural and the Marine, Charlie McCo- Ireland is funded by dairy McCarthy, Consultant in Public (see www.met.ie/uv-index). Carbon Observatory (NASCO), sector. Following the publication nalogue, T.D., and the Minister farmers and supports this project Health Medicine, farmers appear Dr McCarthy stated that VistaMilk SFI Research Centre of the Climate Action and Low of State with responsibility because it will give us the data to have a number of misunder- there is a lot that can be done to has announced the launch of Carbon Development Bill, the for research, Martin Heydon, to understand the emissions and standings of the dangers of UV reduce sun cancer risk. “Review a new and collaborative €1.4 agricultural sector will face TD, added, “This builds on our sequestration effects of a variety sunlight risks and protective mea- your UV exposure – how long million carbon sequestration legally binding targets with a investment to-date in measuring of grass production systems. It is sures. Farmers are particularly are you outside for during the research project with Dairy Re- five-year target to be set later this the emissions and opportunity important that we are proactive vulnerable to this cancer risk due day and how many days of the search Ireland, the group which summer. VistaMilk believes that for removals through our soils in identifying and encouraging to the length of time they work week? Use protective clothing allocates funding from the dairy there is an opportunity to greatly and hedges and is a critical step practices which reduce our outdoors and their self-employed that covers your exposed skin levy collected from Irish dairy enhance the ability of the agricul- in developing opportunities that emissions.” work status where controls and including long sleeved, collared farmers. tural sector to achieve the new encourage and reward farmers Director of Research in social supports are less readily shirts, broad brimmed hats and The VistaMilk SFI Research ambitious GHG targets for 2030, capturing carbon. Moreover, Teagasc, Prof Frank O’Mara applicable, she stated. sunglasses. To help protect your Centre is a joint initiative and the goal of carbon neutrality if Ireland can provide rigorous congratulated all involved saying To improve farmers’ knowl- skin additionally use broad between researchers at Teagasc, for 2050, by putting in place the measurements of carbon seques- “This research will point the way edge related to occupational skin spectrum water-resistant Sun ICBF, Insight SFI Research Cen- necessary scientific research and tration on a regular basis, it will towards climate smart farming cancer, Teagasc will hold a public Protection Factor (SPF) of at tre for Data Analytics, Tyndall infrastructure to rigorously quan- underline the positive contribu- and will be central to providing Webinar on this this topic on least 30-plus and apply every two National Institute and Walton tify carbon sequestration. tion that farming is making to the guidance and support to Irish Wednesday, April 21, 11.30am to hours “. Institute for Information and The collaborative research reduce net emissions.” farmers that will facilitate them 1pm. All farmers and members Dr McCarthy emphasises that Communications Systems Sci- project will leverage the new moving to more climate friendly of the public are invited to attend. checking your skin regularly ence. The €40 million Research Department of Agriculture-fund- farming systems.” The Link to the webinar is www. for changes is really important Centre is jointly funded by the ed National Agricultural Soil Endorsing the announcement, teagasc.ie/SunSmartWebinar to prevent development of skin Department of Agriculture, Carbon Observatory. This Prof Mark Ferguson, Director CSO figures (2018) suggest cancer. “Contact your GP if you that almost one in four of skin notice a lump or discoloured Food and the Marine (DAFM), network of carbon dioxide mon- General of Science Foundation cancer deaths in Ireland are to patch on the skin. Look out for Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) itoring towers is one of the most Ireland and Chief Scientific farming, outdoor and construc- new growth, or a sore, that does and over 50 industry partners comprehensive in Europe and Adviser to the Government of tion workers. This information not heal in a few weeks, a spot from the agricultural and ICT places Ireland at the forefront of Ireland, said “SFI Research indicates that one death every or sore that itches, hurts, crusts, domains. soil carbon research. Vistamilk Centres like VistaMilk have a week in Ireland is at least partly scabs or bleeds, constant skin ul- Carbon sequestration is the researchers will use this network key role to play in accelerating due to sun exposure at work. cers with no other explanation for process of capturing carbon diox- to explore the impacts of farm innovation in how we sustain- If you work outdoors you are their cause and new or changing ide (CO2) from the atmosphere management practices on a va- ably manage the green transition, exposed to two to three times moles”. and storing it in plant material riety of soil types. The four-year helping to significantly reduce more UV than someone who “A key message we need to or in the soil. Carbon stored in research project will be led by our carbon emissions. Mitigating works indoors so you have a get across to farmers and outdoor soils is often called soil organic Dr Karl Richards and Professor and adapting to climate change higher risk of developing skin workers is that UV sunlight is carbon. It is vital for soil health, Gary Lanigan (Environment, are critical issues for all and cancer. Exposure to UV damage dangerous, but adopting protec- improving their workability, Soils and Land Use Research Ireland is well positioned to be is irreversible, permanent and tive measures leads to long term water holding capacity, and Department, Teagasc) in close a research leader in developing cumulative with each exposure. risk reduction”. productivity. collaboration with SFI Research climate action solutions.” April 30 – June 3, 2021 19 people Farming Farmers want to be a part of the solution sales and the reopening of the hospitality sector in the UK a few weeks ago, combined with a reduction in the number of cattle coming fit for slaughter.

Basic supply and demand There is a similar trend in the sheep sector. There is a bigger deficit in sheep meat within the EU and UK, driven as a result of New Zealand lamb being FARMING diverted to China. As a result price of up to €8.50/kg has IN WEST CORK been paid out on lambs. You would wonder is there Tommy Moyles more to be got. Irish prices for beef in particular, remain well In his farming diary, West Cork adrift of UK prices. While they suckler farmer and columnist have lifted in recent weeks, if with the Irish Farmers Journal, you take an average R3 grade Tommy Moyles covers the lay bullock, the price here is €3.90/ While some concern is beginning tonappear among farmers over the recent lack of rainfall, calves on Tommy Moyles farm of the land across all agri and kg while the price for the same have been thriving in the dry spell. Pic: Tommy Moyles farming enterprises – news, animal in the UK is €4.75. This views and people in farming puts the Irish animal €300 to followed that had dust rising course. awareness among farmers about There’s little-to-no financial across West Cork and further €350 behind the same beat in within 48 hours. We’re a hard REPS was the first agri-en- the environment and biodiversi- reward either but it is a public afield. the UK. bunch to please! vironmental scheme and was ty now than there was 10 or 15 good. Finding some way to On the dairy side, Carbery introduced in 1994. Over the years ago. finance more of that, which can In association increased their base price by Agri-environmental scheme years it had four incarnations Farmers are more than will- compensate a farmer for their with 1c/litre while Dairygold raised After much talk about it, a and was a good starting point ing to do their share and there is time, is a challenge to over- theirs by 0.5c/litre and included new €10m agri-environmental at increasing environmental positive work being done. Much come for legislators and those a 1c/litre early calving bonus for scheme was launched by the awareness among farmers. It of it, while driven by govern- involved in drawing up policy. March supplies of milk. Department of Agriculture re- also proved popular, as there ment policy, is happening at Farmers still recall the financial t’s been a hectic few weeks cently. Ahead of the last General was an average payment in farm level without input from crash in 2008 when REPS was across all levels of agricul- Weather election the establishment of an the region of €5,700 paid to others in the sector. A share of among the first cutbacks. Due ture. Calving continues or There’s a lot to be positive agri-environmental scheme that farmers. it requires investment that will to that there is a nervousness Iis coming to an end, depending had capacity to deliver €10,000 The end result of the election not see a rise in production or that the same could happen about in agriculture at present on where you are and your land but there are challenges too. I per farmer was bandied about. promises is a new pilot scheme, a return of more profit for the again and that’s a reason why type; the 2021 grazing season didn’t think that after the wash- It was touted as REPS 2 named REAP (results based environ- farmer. farmers would like to retain a is up and running and the draft out 10 weeks we had to start after REPS (Rural Environ- mental agri pilot) has capacity Similar to an increasing num- share of production. If you are of the next agri-food strategy the year that there would be mental Protection Scheme), the for 2,000 farmers and will ber of farmers in West Cork, a part-time farmer with a young has been released for public farmers looking for rain. It’s not initial environmental scheme run until the end of 2022 with I’ve taken it on myself to plant family, how to find the time to consultation. For one of the first at critical levels, but for tillage that began in the mid-90s. farmers receiving payments for extra hedging and trees, not as do these measures also needs to times I can recall, the livestock farmers trying to establish crops That came about as a result two full years. The maximum part of a scheme, but at my own be factored in. It’s certainly not sector is availing of strong pric- and livestock farmers who have of a change in direction of EU payment of €6,900 falls well expense. With nature involved, a straightforward topic to deal es across all sectors. Lamb and seen grass growth slow down, food policy. In 1994 the EU short of the afore-mentioned there can be as many losses due with. sheep prices are at record levels, it’s becoming a bit of an issue. made it compulsory for each election promise and the aver- to plants being unsuitable to the Despite some politicians por- milk is rising and beef prices There were a few soft rainy state to have an agri-environ- age payment is likely to be in location they are put in, so it’s traying otherwise, farmers are are also on the upward scale. days around the middle of April mental scheme. Prior to this the the region of €4,800 annually. not just a case of plant and walk very much part of the solution The rise in beef price is a but a strong easterly breeze focus in Europe was on food While REPS got the ball away. Tree and hedge work is regarding the environment. combination of strong retail production before a change of rolling, there is a much broader slow and takes time and labour.

country – which was conducted “Dairy farmers are the most may have impacted the volume increased. There was no change Agricultural land prices in February 2021 – found that active buyers and renters of of sales, it had little impact on other cattle farms. Tillage demand for rented ground also land as they continue to strive on agricultural commodity farmers did have a disappointing forecast to rise by four per remains strong with rents this to increase their farm size to prices last year and this helped year due to adverse weather con- year expected to rise by five per achieve economies of scale. to support farm incomes and ditions which led to low yields cent in Munster, six per cent in While Covid has affected sales land values at a time of great and a drop in income.” cent on average in 2021 Connacht and eight per cent in activity, it hasn’t affected output uncertainty. “While farmers benefitted Leinster. or prices and as a result farmer “The closure of hotels and from lower input costs last CSI auctioneers and The report found that dairy Miah McGrath of McCarthy confidence about the future has restaurants and the contraction year, they are facing some cost valuers say land prices farmers are driving the Munster and McGrath, who is a member been unaffected. The land market in the tourist business led to a pressures this year, with feed, remained resilient last year market and that prices ranged of the SCSI’s Rural Agency has shown strong resilience sharp fall in sales of food and fertiliser and fuel prices all on Sdespite the threat posed by Covid from an average of €11,900 per Group, said that lockdowns due throughout the pandemic and drink through these channels. the increase. Lamb prices are and are predicted to rise by four acre in Tipperary for good land to Covid had led to a reduction in agents believe prices will rise However, this was largely offset expected to be significantly high- per cent on average this year, less than 50 acres – the highest the volume of sales. on average by four per cent this by increased food and drink con- er in 2021 relative to 2020 and underpinned by a rise in farm in- in the province - to €9,000 in “The inability to view hold- year.” sumption within the home. Over- farmers with a sheep enterprise comes, as well as strong demand Clare. ings or physical auctions led to a “The low level of supply all it is estimated that the average will therefore benefit. A slight and reduced supply. The price for poor quality significant increase in the num- is again an issue in the rental farm income in Ireland increased improvement in cattle farm According to the Society of land ranged from an average of ber of sellers postponing plans market, but it’s not Covid related. by six per cent in 2020 and this income is expected with dairy Chartered Surveyors Ireland / €6,500 per acre in Waterford to to sell land. In our survey, over Here the issue is leases with year we forecast an increase of a incomes remaining stable. The Teagasc Agricultural Land Mar- €4,700 in Clare. a third of agents (35pc) reported twenty-four per-cent of agents further three per cent.” outlook for tillage farm income ket Review and Outlook Report In Cork the average price of a decrease in the volume of land reporting a decline in the volume “Looking at the various farm this year is contingent on cereal 2021 the price in Munster for an acre of good land under 50 sold in 2020 compared with 19 of land leases in 2020 compared sectors, last year was a good one yield developments. Normal an acre of non-residential land acres was €11,100 – the second per cent in 2019. Virtual viewing to just eight per cent in 2019 as for sheep farmers in particular, as weather through to the harvest under 50 acres last year ranged highest in Munster – while for options have been available to more land is ‘locked up’ in long- they benefitted from higher pric- period would see a significant from an average of €5,800 for poor quality it was €5,900. sellers, but clearly many have a term leases” Mr Lee said. es as did pig producers. Dairy improvement in tillage farm poor land to €10,500 for good The survey of 156 auctioneers preference for more traditional Teagasc economist Dr. Jason farm incomes were stable while income in 2021,” Dr. Loughrey quality. and valuers from all over the auction sales.” Loughrey said that while Covid incomes on cattle rearing farms concluded. 20 April 30 – June 3, 2021 people Environment : Making a difference Our window of opportunity is closing n a week that has seen the tic about the EU-level Climate how perilous a situation the evidence that we are on the gency is one that has already launch of the European Law. It’s disappointing, and an earth is in. He explained that road to nowhere if we carry on been making itself felt on the Climate Law at EU level, unwelcome example reflecting while we are in a climate and the way we are going? subcontinent. Ranked as the Iand the Climate Bill at home in Greta Thunberg’s analogy of biodiversity emergency that is Stats and information re- fourth in the world in terms of Ireland, we’ve seen a few days the earth being like a burning seeing an on-going wipe-out of leased on marine life, birds and countries already profoundly of highs and lows. building. The house – our species and habitat before our soil degradation over the past impacted by the climate emer- In the same week that ‘home’ – is burning down and blinkered eyes, when it comes week, from the European En- gency, India (along with many NASA’s Perseverance rover still the larger lobbies push to the crunch, some species vironment Agency, Birdwatch other developing nations) has, converted carbon dioxide to their weight into the ring at a will be better able to adapt and Ireland and other sources, for some time, been experienc- oxygen on planet Mars, on political level in Europe, and survive the catastrophe of a indicate that life at every level ing a reality that we in the more planet Earth, most notably the play money-focused games that disintegrating planet. is in peril. developed parts of the world subcontinent of India, people ignore the dire emergency we He went on to say that the Twenty-six per cent of Irish have, until recently, been able were dying because of a lack of are in. human species do not have the bird species are red-listed and to conveniently air-brush. oxygen supplies. The perilous nature of what resilience of other more adapt- described as being in danger Covid, the first major GROUNDED The coverage charting In- we are facing, as a species, was able living species. Unless we of extinction. Our marine climate-linked disease to An occasional column by dia’s health system in collapse, not taken seriously this week, dramatically change course we life is severely depleted and reach our shores, has been Grace O’Sullivan – mother, as Covid 19 wreaks havoc, when agreement was reached will, as a species, be wiped out. threatened. Intensive farming, described as a force that knows environment and peace raised stark questions around between the European Parlia- I repeat: ‘wiped out’. Sadly erosion, pollution and chemical no borders. It’s a phrase that, activist, ecologist, MEP inequity and how our planet’s ment, Member States’ govern- this alarming prediction is sci- use is impacting massively on unless adequate radical action most vulnerable citizens are ments and the European Com- entifically backed. Even more soil, that most fundamental is ramped up, will be rolled Grace, a mother of three from getting a raw deal on so many mission. Following on from the sadly, the timeline to irrevers- component in the global pro- out with more regularity as Tramore, Co.Waterford, spent 20 years working with Greenpeace and levels. strong language and ambition ible planetary breakdown to duction of healthy food as well the even bigger forces of the was a crewmember of the Rainbow There is much to be proud of outlined in the Commission’s the point where human life is as an important and compre- climate emergency plough Warrior, when it was bombed by the in the long-awaited ambitious European Green Deal, it was unsustainable, is short. There hensive carbon sink facility. Put through geographical and eco- French Foreign Intelligence Service Climate Bill at home, and I doubly disappointing at a time is a window of opportunity bluntly, soil is being stripped, nomic borders, land squarely in 1985. She served as a Senator for three years, before being elected to hope it’s transition into legisla- when we need honest action to reverse a fatal outcome for by human intervention, of its on our privileged doorsteps, the European Parliament, where tion will be swift. While I don’t rather than shallow rhetoric. As humankind. The window of remarkable, long-term, natural crash through our own front she is a proactive and outspoken want to be loose with language, our own Greens/ EFA group in opportunity is ‘now’. abilities to sustain life - plants, doors, and explode in meta- member of important commit- I can hand-on-heart say there is the European Parliament said Overwhelming numbers of animals and humans. phorical flames. tees on Fisheries (PECH), and good reason for optimism, or at in a pointed message to the people who understand the The dire situation in India There is hope. There is time. Environment, Public Health and Food Safety (ENVI). She is also a least some semblance of hope deluded supporters of the final danger we are in and want serves to illustrate a likely reg- But the clock is ticking and if member of delegations on Mercosur in the overall thrust of it. It is agreement on the European the planet to survive into the ular future scenario if we don’t you don’t want the alarm bell and Palestine, and a member of a heading in the right direction Climate Law (including mem- future, have been taking to ramp up the action around to be tolling for you and yours, number of working groups. She and, against the backdrop bers of the biggest groupings in the streets to demand urgent, tackling the climate emergen- it’s time to realise that this fight is Green Party Spokesperson on of a planet in a climate and the European Parliament - EPP comprehensive action. Why do cy. While India is struggling must be fought with all hands Environmental Protection, Natural Resources, Marine and Tourism. biodiversity emergency; that and Renew): We are ready, why we still have too many political to cope with the ravages of on deck. direction is one we need to be aren’t you? leaders bowing to lobbies Covid-19, a zoonotic disease taking very, very seriously. A scientist spoke to me whose ambitions clash with inextricably linked to climate I wish I could be as optimis- in recent days about just science and the overwhelming change, the climate emer- National chough survey to help with conservation of rare bird he red-billed chough is on short-cropped coastal grass- one of our most charis- lands such as clifftops, grazed Cork householders recycle 1.4 matic birds but one which cliffs, dunes and exposed islands, Tis probably most familiar to those the extensively managed and million batteries in 2020 living along rugged Irish coast- relatively mild Irish coastline lines. The chough is a scarce bird provides good feeding opportuni- ouseholders in Cork from Aldi stores, which led the associated with coastal fringes ties throughout the year and good recycled nearly 36,000 charge on 3.2 million, double from Donegal to Wexford. Fewer nesting opportunities on our less batteries through that of German counterpart Lidl than 850 breeding pairs along cliffs. Agricultural improvement Chough Pic: Birdwatch Ireland Hretailers last year than in 2019, (1.6 million). our coastline from Inishowen in has led to Chough declines – a Ecological and ALC Nature will Ireland can meet its interna- new figures show. The e-waste recycling Donegal to the Saltees in Wex- century ago they used to occur be running a national survey of tional obligations to protect and Data from WEEE Ireland re- scheme also picked up 850,000 ford – they are very much a bird all around the Irish coastline, these birds on behalf of National enhance the small and precious veals that consumers in the city used batteries from Tesco, associated with western Atlantic including the ‘soft’ eastern Parks and Wildlife Service all population of Chough around the and county brought 1,468,320 224,000 from SuperValu and coastal grasslands. coastline from Wicklow to around the Irish coastline. Atlantic coastline of Ireland.” used batteries - 37 tonnes - back over 97,000 from while Dunnes A member of the crow family, Antrim – they have been extinct Aside from having the distinc- In some areas Chough nest to supermarkets, hardware and Stores outlets. choughs are true invertebrate in most coastal counties there tive red legs and red decurved inland, away from the coast on electronic stores in 2020. When figures from all specialists with a striking and for more than 100 years and the bill, chough have a buoyant, inland cliffs, in farm buildings, That was down 35,680 on retailers and civic amenity sites delicate decurved red bill (and last remaining pair in Northern butterfly-like flight and profile (a bridges and abandoned houses. the 1,504,000 prevented from were added, the equivalent of matching red legs) designed Ireland – on the cliffs of Rathlin little different from other crows), The Survey team would be very ending up in general waste bins 21 million AA batteries were re- to probe the top layer of short Island in Antrim – disappeared shiny black plumage and a keen to hear about any observa- the year before. cycled by householders in 2020, coastal grasses for insects – in 2017. distinctive high pitched ‘cheouw’ tions people may have of these Nationally, a massive 7.8 an average of four for everyone liking leatherjackets, spiders We need to periodically take call. birds, especially relating to birds million batteries were recycled in Ireland. and, where they can get them the stock of the population, to know Dr Sinéad Cummins, the nesting in areas away from the through all retailers last year Despite the encouraging data, insects associated with cow pats. how they are faring, and to use scientist in NPWS Science coast. – up 134,120 on 2019 as more for every 10 AA batteries sold To a young Chough a cow pat is this information to inform their Biodiversity Section leading the Observations can be reported people used their grocery shop on the market, only four are re- like a burger! Choughs are totally continued conservation. Holding project said “we are very pleased at bit.ly/ChoughSurvey21, email to do their bit for the planet. turned for recycling, with 20% harmless to livestock and farm- nearly 60 per cent of the North- to be undertaking a national [email protected] or Six million of those ended in a recent survey admitting ing activities and are an amazing west European population we assessment of these characterful call 089 278 5603. up in supermarkets, over half of to dumping used batteries in character of our coastal skies. have a legal obligation to do so. birds this year. The data gathered which WEEE Ireland collected general waste bins. Because of their dependence From April to July 2021 KRC is very important to ensure that April 30 – June 3, 2021 21 people Environment : Making a difference We are starving our bees Since the 1980s, due to landscape changes, half of our wild bee species has should look, but, unfortunately, hearts, and we should worry for spring. 2. Reduce the use of it means that we are squeez- ourselves and the world as they pesticides. The earth is our undergone huge decline. One third of our ninety-eight wild bee species are ing nature out. This means are disappearing quickly. All of mother; we should not poison now threatened with extinction in Ireland. Bees (and other pollinators, such we will lose the important us who are gardeners can make her. 3. We should find out the as wasps) are declining because we have drastically reduced the areas where services nature provide, such as a big difference to help. We best native wild flowers for pollination. To have a healthy can have manicured lawns but pollination – clover, oxeye they can nest and the amount of food (wildflowers) our landscape provides balanced diet, bees need to we should ensure that we leave daisy, cornflower, knapweed, for them. We also subject them to levels of pesticides that make it difficult for be able to feed on pollen and space where we allow the grass vetches, self-heal, among them to complete their life cycles. Eoghan Ó Dálaigh talks about the valu- nectar from a range of different to grow with wildflowers and others. 4. We should choose able role played by the humble bee in agriculture and in gardens and what we flowers from March through to plants like dandelions, daisies pollinator-friendly plants for October. Wild bees don’t make and clover. As well as letting our flower beds, for example can do to aid its survival. honey so they have no way of wild flowers grow, we can also asters, marigolds, poppies, ollinators play a key role that a bees visiting a flower is In the same era birds have storing food. This means they plant some pollinator-friendly sun-flowers, verbena, single in our natural environ- “an act of nature playing out become are never more than a few days ornamental flowers and a lot flower dahlias, snap-dragons, ment. Seventy-eight for millions of years”. The extinct. Some of us remem- away from starvation – so that of these are now marked ‘bee rudbeckia and so on. Pper cent of all our wild plants poet Kahil Gibran described ber the corncrake. Now we it’s very important that there is friendly’ in the garden centres. The bumble bees are foun- require insect pollination. this symbiotic relationship like seem to be saying goodbye a continues supply of flowers I would like to suggest some tains of life and messengers of Without these, wild flowers, this: “To a bee a flower is the to the cuckoo. The curlew, for them. ways that we as gardeners love. If you consider that dan- flowering trees and hedgerow foundation of life and to the lapwing, snipe, yellowhammer, The best sources of food for can help pollinators do their ab- delions and daisies are ‘weeds’, plants, the Irish landscape flower the bee is a messenger lark are all in danger of becom- pollinators are native plants – solutely essential work: 1. Let remove them by hand and hoe would be a much less beautiful of love”. ing extinct. trees, shrubs and wildflowers. dandelions bloom. If we could if you must. Lifeless, flow- place. These plants provide The role of bees in agricul- Dr. Una Fitzpatrick, who Be kind to bees and help them learn to love the dandelions er-less lawns are like desert food and shelter for our birds ture and in gardens is pivotal; runs the bumblebee monitoring all you can. As naturalist, and see them as a welcome places for all our pollinators. and mammals, as well as hab- they pollinate trees whose scheme for the National Biodi- Roger Deakin, has pointed splash of colour, many more of In saving bees, we are saving itats for other small creatures, oxygen we breathe and which versity Data Centre, warns that out, they are close to all our our pollinators would survive ourselves. including many beneficial mitigate the climate crisis and our bumblebees are literally insects that control crop pests. also the flora that feeds other starving to death. “We keep ti- A growing number of books insects, birds and mammals. dying up nature so we have lots and informative literature has In my lifetime, which is of grassland, parkland and neat appeared about the plight of now more than seventy years, lawns with no dandelions, dai- bees and their fight for survival farming has become highly sies, clover of wildflowers, and Just like us, pollinators in the face of herbicidal use in industrialised, eliminating the bumblebee dies of hunger”. agriculture, gardens, land- many of our hedgerows where The bumblebee that comes out need good and a safe scaped golf courses, and so on. there was an abundance of wild of hibernation in spring cannot place to live. Often this is Colonies have collapsed on a plants and all types of insects. get the nectar it desperately because we cut, mow and massive scale, as bewildered Where once we had wildflower needs because there simply insects, losing their homing meadows that provided food aren’t enough so-called ‘weeds’ spray so that everything instinct, have been unable to and habitat for bees, birds and and flowering plants. So all our looks neat and tidy to us. return to their hives. butterflies we now have vast pollinators are hungry for lack We’ve been doing this As the bee goes from flower tracts of monoculture for silage of food. to flower, collecting nectar to making. Growing up on Heir Just like us, pollinators need for so long that we think fuel her flight and pollen to Island and later on Turkhead, good and a safe place to live. this is how our homes feed her family, she also moves there were no lawns; there was Often this is because we cut, and countryside should pollen from stamen to pistil no need for a lawnmower. Over mow and spray so that every- (male to female part), so that the last half a century or more, thing looks neat and tidy to us. look, but, unfortunately, the plant can produce seeds. we have become obsessed with We’ve been doing this for so it means that we are The writer and naturalist, neatness, close-cropped lawns, long that we think this is how squeezing nature out. Alison Benjamin, has written herbicides and pesticides. our homes and countryside

West Cork Greens: Wild Fires destroy our natural heritage and our shared health Rory Jackson, LEA for we hope to see the full impact and again the heroics of our to health are countless and can of the law brought to bear on frontline services were called lead to long-term issues for the Green Party Cork the perpetrators. What we do upon.” anyone affected, especially South West says that know is that decades of neglect We would call on the public those with pre-existing respira- April has been a dev- and underfunding have left our to report these fires and the tory illnesses. natural resources wide open to culprits, if known, to the Gar- While Garda and Nation- astating month so far this destruction. We call on all daí. This is our natural heritage al park ranger pursue the with fires continuing to parties to support more funding that is at risk. We must also culprits who start these fires, be started all over the for our National Wildlife and implement plans for the safe- it is exceedingly difficult to country. Protection Services (NWPS) guarding of our National Parks, bring many cases to court and and for the speedy establish- such as Killarney, which have successfully prosecute those ment of a Wildlife Crime Unit. been ignored by Government who start them. It is the duty of illarney national park Our frontline services are for too long. I fully support my everyone to report these fires has again become bearing a huge cost to their own colleague, Minister Malcolm and if you see anyone starting victim with huge losses safety and huge resources are Noonan in his plans to increase them, please let the authorities Kto nature and massive demands being spent fighting these fires. the number of Rangers in the know and stay safe. Fires can being put on our fire fighting Our summers will become drier NWPS and to set up a Wildlife be reported to the facebook services. The Air Corps have and fires will become a greater Crime Unit. page, Stop Gorse Fires, which also been drafted in to help put problem if we do not act now. Everyone needs to be aware is run by myself and volunteers. out the huge blaze. It appears This weekend saw fires started that if you can smell a fire, you that the fires were not started Pic: Irish Air Corp Twitter at Shiplake near Dunmanway, are breathing it in. The risks The fire in Killarney Park. by farmers or landowners and 22 April 30 – June 3, 2021 people Environment : Making a difference Bandon students challenge you to do better for the planet with ‘Carbon Concentrations’ campaign n environmental The Colaiste na Toirbhirte concentrations. We researched campaign initiated by students post both interactive this to find that vegetation Colaiste na Toirbhirte challenges and fun facts on in Bandon Town was being Astudents Katie Hannon (Ban- their social media platforms impacted,” explains Aisling. don) and Aisling O’Connor and have set up weekly The pair were delighted to be (Kilbrittain) aims to provide challenges called Carbon chosen by the expert judges people with simple ideas to Neutral Thursday at Colaiste at Eco-UNESCO to advance change their everyday behavior na Toirbhirte. These challenges into the semi-finals with their for the better of the planet. lasted for a series of weeks and campaign ‘Carbon Concentra- The students set up ‘Carbon followers were asked to send tions’. Semi-finalists will be Concentrations’ in late January in their pictures of participa- interviewed in April and finals when they entered their tion. “We got some brilliant for the competition will take project into Eco-UNESCO or responses to our challenges, place in late May. The Young Environmentalist from walking to the shop, litter “We’ve set up ‘Forest Finds’ Awards. picking or saving paper, every- as a fun challenge for the Katie and Aisling have body played their part!” says month of April! See our videos set up social media accounts Katie. “These were simply easy on social media and find out on Facebook, Instagram and challenges to make positive how to take part,” says Katie. TikTok and are aiming to raise changes for the planet,” adds The duo has planted a tree at awareness about the issue of Aisling. their school to set the example rising carbon concentration The two sixteen-year-old for everybody. levels in our environment. The students originally competed in ‘Think Globally, Act Local- girls created many short, fun BT Young Scientist with their ly’ is the motto behind ‘Carbon video clips on TikTok through- project. They held a stand at Concentrations’; the students out their campaign – one of the virtual event and researched believe that with everybody their videos reached more than the effect of carbon dioxide on playing their part in small 15,000 views! “We are delight- ivy leaves. Katie and Aisling gradual changes we can make ed with the success of all our went on to use the evidence our locality a better place. “All social media accounts, and par- and scientific research they your actions, regardless of how ticularly our Tiktok! We were had collected to educate others big or small contribute to the so impressed when we saw the around this topic. “We wanted wider global picture.” amount of people our message to see if our own local area has reached,” says Katie. was being affected by carbon (l-r) Katie and Aisling planting their cherry blossom tree. Volunteers needed for second nationwide hedgehog survey esearchers from NUI Galway and the National Biodiversity Data Centre Rare once again calling on citizen scientists to help to record data and movements of the hum- ble hedgehog. This year, the researchers have planned a more involved hedgehog survey with volunteers invited to conduct assessments in their local area between May and September. The methodology follows that developed by the Mammal Society of the UK, which uses footprint tunnels to determine if hedgehogs are present in various habitats. Researchers are asking volunteers to place ten footprint tunnels, a small tunnel made from corrugated plastic containing two way, who said: “The aim of the Mayo, Dun Laoghaire-Rath- on the survey, instructions, and sheets of paper and ink in the survey is to provide information down and Dublin City as well as equipment needed to carry out centre to capture the footprints of on the types of habitats where the National Biodiversity Data the project. There will also be the hedgehogs, within a one kilo- hedgehogs occur, and where they Centre, Ulster Wildlife Trust and live training events facilitated metre square area for five nights don’t. We are hopeful that a lot of Cork Nature Network. With their with the Hedgehog Survey proj- and check them each morning for volunteers will get involved and support we hope to train and ect partners. signs of hedgehogs. survey different types of habitats mobilise teams of volunteers in Full details of dates and loca- The Irish Hedgehog Survey in urban and rural areas. We are these areas.” tions of the volunteer workshops was launched in the summer delighted with the response to the This survey would be suitable will be available on the project of 2020 with members of the Researchers also received hedgehog friendly. The leaflet is Hedgehog Survey so far. People for interested individuals, local website irishhedgehogsurvey. public asked to submit records many requests for information on available to view, download and seem very interested in hedge- wildlife or conservation groups com/helping-hedgehogs of hedgehog sightings online. how to attract hedgehogs into the print from the project website. hogs and care about them very and community and youth For further information on the The response to the survey saw garden or help a sick or injured The Irish Hedgehog Survey much.” groups. Participants are welcome project, training, or survey news, over 2,000 hedgehog sightings animal so they have produced forms part of the research of “We are very pleased to have from all over Ireland. please email irishhedgehogsur- reported for the year from all an informative leaflet called PhD candidate Elaine O’Riordan teamed up with project partners Volunteering workshops will [email protected]. over Ireland, with many reporting ‘Helping Hedgehogs’ with tips from Zoology, School of Natural from the county councils of be available online in early sum- hedgehogs regularly visiting their for making your garden more Science, Ryan Institute, NUI Gal- Galway, Kilkenny Roscommon, mer 2021 with more information gardens through the summer. April 30 – June 3, 2021 23 people Environment : Making a difference Butterflies in West Cork

As well as the conservation of wild birds, the West Cork Branch of BirdWatch Ireland promotes biodiversity, which encompasses a wide range of interests. Committee member Damaris Lysaght shares her passion for butterflies.

ho can resist that other essential requirement of miracle of colour, the adult butterfly is a source of fragility and beauty nectar, which can be supplied Wthat is the butterfly? Collective- by both non-native and native ly called a kaleidoscope, they flowering plants and trees. gladden the heart. Traditionally In Ireland we have 35 butter- Marsh Fritillary. Pic: Nicholas Mitchell Orange-tip (male) on Lady’s Smock (Cuckoo Flower). they have been seen as symbols fly species: all colours and pat- Pic: Nicholas Mitchell of the human soul, freedom terns and ranging from 1.5cm and transformation. Féileacán to 8cm wingspan. Barring a few in Irish, they were thought to exceptions these can all be seen represent the spirits of the dead in County Cork. Here are a few returning to visit their favourite examples: people and places. The Orange Tip is one of the Butterflies and moths belong first to appear in spring. The to the order Lepidoptera, from male is more obvious than the the Greek: lepis (scale) and female with flashy orange tips pteron (wing). Butterfly wings to his wings and is conspicu- are made up of tiny scales that ous as he patrols his territory. give the butterfly its colour Both male and female have and iridescence by refracting, mottled grey/green under sides reflecting and absorbing light. to their wings. This detail tells They have a feeding tube (pro- this species apart from other boscis) that acts like a straw, to white butterflies that also fly Green Hairstreak Pic: Anne Dale suck up nectar and other fluids. in spring. She lays her eggs on A close-up photo of a butterfly the stems of Lady’s Smock. reveals that it is covered in tiny The caterpillars are cannibals brood here but will generally onwards are visible, basking in hairs that keep it warm. They and only one will survive on a not over-winter, as it is too the sun, in groups. They start are cold blooded and are often single plant! They are only on cold. The other nettle user and dispersing in mid-April to form seen basking in the sun to heat the wing from April to June. over-winterer is the Comma, a their chrysalis. It is interest- up before they can fly. The life On the wing in spring and very recent arrival in Ireland, ing that the caterpillars of the cycle of a butterfly begins when summer, the bright blue of having flown across from other butterflies in the fritillary the female lays eggs that hatch the male Common Blue is Britain, and is now widespread family feed on violets and do into caterpillars. The caterpillar eye-catching. The females are in eastern counties and has been not go around in a gang! The feeds on its host plant, moulting much darker than the males sighted occasionally in Cork... Marsh Fritillary is monitored several times before it forms a (blue/brown with orange bead- one to look out for! in August or September by chrysalis, which will metamor- ing around their wing edge) and One of the hardest butterflies counting the number of webs phose and emerge as an adult. are harder to spot. She lays her to spot is the Purple Hairstreak, found in a given area, rather In most cases the caterpillar eggs on Bird’s-foot Trefoil and which lives, feeds and lays its than counting the number of stage of the life cycle is the has two broods. eggs on the top of oak trees. adults on the wing as is the case longest. That transformation is The Painted Lady is probably with other species. This is the an astonishing feat, which mys- our best-known migrant. Their only species that is protected by Marsh Fritillary. Pic:Damaris Lysaght tified scientists for years and If you notice a heap home ground is Morocco. If law in Ireland. It is an indicator has fed into various butterfly of spiky looking black they have a good breeding sea- species of the health of the mythologies. son and favourable winds, there environment. the destruction of habitat. More A couple of excellent books: Butterflies are seasonal, each caterpillars on the will be a large influx of them When walking in a scrubby marginal land, scrub, hedges Discovering Irish Butterflies species having its own flight nettles in your garden, here, such as in 2009. The area of gorse and briers, you and verges are cleared away for and their Habitats period. Depending on the spe- caterpillars feed on thistles and may see a flitting grey/brown agriculture, houses and so on. A by Jesmond Harding. cies, they complete their life cy- these belong to the huge field of ryegrass separated they produce one generation flying insect hard to focus on. Ireland’s Butterflies: A cle once, twice, and sometimes butterflies we associate from the next one by a strand of here, but it is too cold for them If you are lucky enough to see Review by Nash, Boyd and three times during a year. Some electric fence is no good for any with summer: the Small to over-winter. Another more it alight, it immediately closes Hardiman. butterfly species live for a few Tortoiseshell, Red unusual migrant is the Clouded its wings, and you will see a insect or bird. Herbicides and days and others for several Yellow. stunning small iridescent green fertilisers also reduce the wild- months. A handful of butter- Admiral and Peacock. The word Fritillary comes butterfly. It is a Green Hair- flowers. We can all help in our flies hibernate during winter from the Latin fritillus (dice- streak. They are a feisty little gardens by growing plants rich as adults, but most overwinter box). It is an apt description for butterfly and protective of their in nectar and wild plants like in the caterpillar stage, a few If you notice a heap of spiky the wing pattern of the Marsh territories, seeing off intruders. Birds-foot Trefoil, which would as chrysalises and a couple of looking black caterpillars on Fritillary – a stained-glass win- They lay their eggs on gorse. look fine on anyone’s grass species as eggs. A few species the nettles in your garden, these dow of beige, cream, orange Climate, geology, and soil verge or lawn edge. You may migrate large distances, while belong to the butterflies we as- and brown. The adult is only types all have an influence even attract your own colony of others hardly venture from the sociate with summer: the Small on the wing for about a month on the natural vegetation: Common Blues! small piece of habitat where Tortoiseshell, Red Admiral and from late May. The caterpillars meadows, marsh, woodland, For more information about they hatched. Peacock. The Small Tortoise- feed exclusively on the leaves scrub, dunes, and heath land. butterflies and how to get For more information about the Every species of butterfly shell and the Peacock both of Devil’s Bit Scabious. The These varied habitats supply involved, go to: National Bio- Branch contact Nicholas Mitch- lays its eggs on specific plants. hibernate overwinter as adults lifecycle of this butterfly can our different butterfly species diversity Data Centre website ell at secretary@birdwatchire- Therefore a particular species in a sheltered place, sometimes be followed as the caterpillars with all their needs for egg (biodiversityireland.ie) and landwestcork.ie or join our will only be found where there in houses and sheds. The Red feed and move around in a laying, food source and so on. Butterfly Conservation Ireland mailing list by sending an email is a plentiful supply of its Admiral is a migrant and flies web. They disappear into a Sadly Ireland is becoming a (butterflyconservation.ie) to mailinglist@birdwatchire- favoured native plant: a grass, over from the continent from winter web deep down in the butterfly-unfriendly place. In- landwestcork.ie. wildflower, tree or shrub. The spring onwards. It raises a vegetation but from February creasingly the biggest factor is 24 April 30 – June 3, 2021 people Environment : Making a difference The pitchforks are coming

inequality creates for our world. contribute their views through ‘need’ to wage war on any plant by Opinions Market Research striving to reduce the damage to Since 2012, he has been a public consultation and the or animal (including bacteria and showed that: our environment, that direct ac- speaking up for a redefining launch of a ‘Circular Economy and viruses) on this planet; tion, by the various members of of capitalism and creation of a Innovation Grant’. regeneration enables us to re- • Nine in 10 people believe the climate change movements better economic model, asking The Ellen McCarthur Foun- join Nature. that Irish climate change led to a judicial challenge of the question “How do I turn dation describes the Circular The Human Genome Project policies should be guided by climate change policy in the $1 million of giving into $1 Economy as “Looking beyond has shown us that the number science and expert advice. Irish Supreme Court, which billion of social change?” and the current take-make-waste ex- of human cells inside us that set • There is near-universal quashed the Government of Ire- founding and supporting “Civic tractive industrial model, a cir- us uniquely apart from Nature support for government land’s 2017 National Mitigation Action” a grassroots activism cular economy aims to redefine are dwarfed by the number of initiatives to support jobs by Plan, ordering the Government ENVIRONMENTAL organisation, which states growth, focusing on positive cells, the number of bacteria encouraging home improve- to create a new plan, compliant on it’s website:“Let’s cause society-wide benefits. It entails and viruses, that put us squarely ments for energy efficiency. with the 2015 Climate Act. MATTERS some trouble. Our mission is gradually decoupling economic in Nature, just as our Earth is • Three out of every four The pitchforks are powerful! Fiona Hayes to empower you to be the best activity from the consumption one small part of a universe of citizens in Ireland believe If humans are to survive and activist you can be. We curate of finite resources, and design- planets and stars.” that investment in transport thrive then we must create a ideas on the cutting edge of ing waste out of the system. He notes that “Regenerative should favour safe walking, Copernican realisation that we progressive politics, challenge Underpinned by a transition to Development”: The Copernican cycling and public transport are nothing special, that in fact ick Hanauer is by how you think, and present renewable energy sources, the perspective, enables us to ini- ahead of private cars. It hits we are part of a holonic system, his own definition a opportunities for activism that circular model builds econom- tiate a process of co-evolution 80 per cent in Dublin, but is complete in our own right but plutocrat and proud will maximise your impact.” ic, natural, and social capital. with all of life and with all that still 72 per cent outside cities also part of a greater whole. Nand unapologetic capitalist. In His view is that ‘the people’ It is based on three principles: nurtures the process of life on and suburbs. The greatest human driver 2019 at TED in Edinburgh he will create change. His 2014 Design out waste and pollution. this planet Earth. • That even with very difficult away from the science of ‘Life’, introduced himself as not just Ted Talk explains “If we don’t Keep products and materials If we look towards the Natu- ecoomic times ahead, almost away from a regenerative one of the “top one per cent” do something to fix the glaring in use. Regenerate natural ral World, you find this is how two-thirds of adults in Ireland culture is our linear economic of earners but in the top 0.01 inequities in this economy, the systems.” it has functioned efficiently for believe that it remains im- model that supports greater per cent. pitchforks are going to come ‘Regenerate is the focus of billions of years. Now, if we portant that the government and greater divisions in society. He has founded, cofounded, for us (the one per cent). No a working party put together as a species, are to survive and prioritises action on climate Humans created this economic or funded over 30 companies society can sustain this kind of by Ecolise, Communities For thrive, we need to look to the change. model; humans can make it across a range of USA indus- rising inequality.” Future. Edward Klutz, a mem- science of the natural world, to • Two-thirds of people living obsolete by introducing a better tries. He was the first non-fami- In Ireland, alongside the ris- ber of the working party states see how there is no such thing outside cities and suburbs one. ly investor in Amazon.com. He ing interest in solutions to cli- “Regeneration goes beyond the as ‘waste’, but rather every- believe emissions from agri- It is time to become a cofounded a company called mate change and environmental term ‘sustainability’, from ex- thing is a resource to continue culture need to be reduced by pitchfork. Time to cause some ‘aQuantive’ that was sold to sustainability, a new economic ploitation of finite resources to the cycle of life; to regenerate, supporting a move to more trouble. Time to answer the Microsoft for 6.4 billion dollars structure is starting to take hold. a paradigm shift of Copernican to give new life or energy to, to sustainable farming. Nation- Government’s Draft National Nick Hanaeur however is Mid April saw the launch of the perspective. Our modern model revitalise. ally it is three-quarters. Strategy to transition towards a leading critic of modern Government’s Draft National of natural science has written This is the essence of a circu- a ‘Circular Economy’, by con- neoliberal economic policy. Strategy to transition towards mankind out of Nature. lar economy. Indeed, so powerful is the belief tributing your views the ‘public He is one of the world’s most a ‘Circular Economy’, with In place of a fear of scarcity Recently, Friends of the that science must guide Climate consultation’, which you can outspoken critics of society’s an invitation to businesses, and of the consequent genera- Earth Ireland commissioned a Change Policy and that system find at gov.ie. growing inequality and the dire communities and citizens to tion of control and a resulting survey. The poll was carried out change must support people consequences that increasing Emergency Solution for Bandon River Fish Pass to be in place by May 1 S P he Office of Public became aware that the boulders, The situation is currently boulders is preferred, but if Works (OPW) plans to rock and gravel material that creating serious difficulties suitably sized boulders cannot commence emergency formed the bed of the ramp had for various aquatic species be sourced, the use of large con- Tworks in the coming days on deteriorated, possibly as a result in migrating over this newly crete blocks will be considered. ECOCIDE the large ‘rock-ramp’ fish pass of extreme flows in the river in exposed ‘step’ at the upstream A contractor is expected to in the Bandon River, measur- February, 2021. OPW imme- end of the fish pass, particularly be appointed to undertake the ing some 130m, which was diately carried out inspections, in low flows. works shortly. Consultations change the law installed in October 2018. accompanied by IFI representa- The OPW and IFI have are underway with landowners These emergency works will be tives and the fisheries’ specialist agreed that urgent measures for access for the proposed critical in solving the immediate on the Project. need to be implemented to works. Subject to environmen- problem. The rock ramp was The site inspections identified alleviate this problem. An Ap- tal approval, it is planned to essential to mitigate the impact serious deterioration of the rock propriate Assessment Screening commence the works in the on fish passage at the weir, and gravel bed materials used process is already underway, in coming days and to have all which arose from deepening in the construction of the fish line with the requirements of works completed before May 1 the channel downstream of pass, over its full length. Of im- the Habitats Directive, and is or shortly afterwards. the weir. The fish pass was de- mediate concern is the erosion scheduled to be complete very In addition, an investigation signed by international experts, of bed material at the upstream shortly. The proposed solution into the reasons for the deterio- with input from national experts end of the fish pass, which has will comprise of large boulders ration of the bed material on the in the then Department of resulted in the retaining wall, placed in a line across the width fish pass has commenced and Environment, Community and originally constructed below the of the fish pass – close to the a longer term solution will be Local Government (DECLH), bed level of the pass, becoming ‘step’ at the upstream end of developed with a view to fully along with Inland Fisheries exposed and creating a ‘step’ up the pass – to create a pool from rectifying the issue over the Ireland (IFI). from the bed level immediately which the fish can pass with next few months. www.stopECOCIDE.earth In March 2021, the OPW downstream of it. greater ease. The use of natural @ecocidelaw April 30 – June 3, 2021 25 people Health & Lifestyle: A flavour of West Cork A simple seasonal treat a tunnel or covered growing area Balsamic vinegar that is designated to this use. Pre-heat the oven 220c The Irish asparagus season is short – there are six weeks in Method: May-June when these plants do Put the lentils into a saucepan their thing, growing up to 18cms and cover with at least twice as in a day and funnily enough it’s much water. Bring to the boil, the male plants that shoot up the turn to simmer then cook for 20 spears, the female plants provide minutes. Check them by tasting a the seeds – kind of reverse to couple and if they are still a little humans. hard cook for one to two minutes I always enjoy the aspara- longer but be careful as they A FLAVOUR OF gus when it’s in season here in should be just done. Drain the WEST CORK Ireland. It’s such a seasonal treat lentils, rinse with hot water then and one of the most nutritionally dress with a drizzle of extra vir- RECIPE balanced vegetables packed with gin olive oil, a splash of balsamic vitamins and antioxidants. vinegar and a little salt. Put the Karen Austin It’s best cooked simply. My lid back on to keep them warm favourite way is grilling on a cast and put aside. iron pan but I have also discov- Whilst the lentils are cooking ur glasshouse is bursting ered roasting in a very hot oven prepare the asparagus. Wash at the seams. There are can produce a similar result. The the spears then trim the woody crowds of seedlings wait- heat seals in the flavours and the end. You could snap them but I Oing to move to a more spacious asparagus still has a little bite. usually lightly run a sharp knife location to continue growing. We We have plenty of fresh eggs over the stem working from the have just re-covered the tunnel and a big bunch of Dunworley stalk up and the knife cuts like that was destroyed in one of the asparagus at hand so this month’s butter as soon as you pass the winter storms so the tomatoes recipe is a plate of roasted aspar- woody bit. Line a baking tray can relocate and the other tunnel agus over Puy lentils with herb that’s big enough to accommo- is full of infant spinach, chard, hollandaise. The lentils are sim- date the asparagus in one layer herbs and baby beans. The pota- ply cooked then seasoned with with parchment paper. Dry the toes are peeping up and the fruit salt and dressed with the best spears then put them in the tray trees are in blossom. It’s such olive oil and a splash of balsamic and drizzle over olive oil. Sprin- an exciting time of the year in a vinegar to brighten them up. kle over a little salt and cracked garden yet the pickings are fairly Sublime! It’s very easy to pepper then roll them about so salt and pepper and stir in the slim, as last year’s green crops prepare and well worth seeking they are all lightly dressed, chopped herbs. If it is too thick, shoot for the sky and go to seed out the local asparagus for, Wash the tomatoes and dry thin with a little warm water. If and the new ones aren’t quite infinitely superior to asparagus then put them into a baking tray you are not ready to serve you Main Street, Union Hall ready to be picked. that has been flown half way with a drizzle of olive oil and a can keep the sauce warm by Dinty’s Bar One vegetable that’s coming round the world and sold for next sprinkle of salt. putting the jug into a bowl of hot into season is Irish asparagus. to nothing. Put the tomatoes and aspar- water. OPEN FOR TAKE AWAY Sadly we don’t have any in our Help save the planet, buy agus into the oven and set the To assemble the dinner put Friday 5-8pm Saturday 5-8pm Sunday 1-8pm garden anymore – I dug it up in local! timer for seven minutes, toss a big spoonful of lentils onto frustration. After several years of both then cook for a further five each plate, lay the asparagus on nursing the plants and trying to Roasted Asparagus with Puy minutes. top and pour a little hollandaise keep them weed-free, then only Lentils and Herb Hollandaise The Hollandaise is made across. Put the roasted tomatoes getting a couple of spears at a using a held blender, which is a around the sides. time, I finally gave up. I should Serves 3-4 clever trick – no whisking over a Our shop has re-opened and Phone 085 7269977 to make an order. have researched growing aspara- Ingredients: bain-marie, just instant Hollan- we’re delighted to be back in the gus before wasting so much time, 1 bunch asparagus – 4 spears per daise. swing of things so do pass by [email protected] www.facebook.com/dintys.bar as I have discovered that not only person Put the egg yolks into the bea- and pick up some tasty treats. We do the seedlings need three years 200g ripe cherry tomatoes ker or a jug with the lemon juice. have plenty to offer from coffees on a weed-free bed, it also hates 200g Puy lentils Gently melt the butter and heat and cakes to lunch, picnics and slugs and needs warmth and 200g butter until hot. dinner. We’re open Tuesday to sunshine – a minimum of eight 2 egg yolks Chop the herbs finely Saturday from 9am – 4pm. hours sunshine a day! Juice of half a juicy lemon Put the blender into the beaker Now that we can move about, I take my hat off to the Irish A handful of fresh soft herbs – and buzz the yolks and lemon enjoy the freedom of May! growers who supply us with chives, basil and/or chervil juice together. Add the hot butter this seasonal treat, as it takes so Salt and cracked black pepper in a slow steady stream. When much time and effort and ideally Extra virgin olive oil it has emulsified season with Local chef shares the love during lockdown lonakilty chef Vicki Sherry turned to instagram to fill the hours and share her love of cooking during lockdown. The experienced chef of 25 years has been showing followers Chow vegan meals can feed a family, with the added benefit that meat can be added to all of Vicki’s recipes if required. Vicki’s food is all about promoting good health and good taste without over-compli- cating things in the kitchen. One of her recipes was published by RTE’s Operation Transformation before Christmas. “It all started just when my son came home from Australia with his vegan girlfriend last August. I’m vegetarian but the rest of the The place to pick up coffee, cake, family eat meat so I was cooking a range of different meals to suit lunch, picnics & dinner everyone. I decided to base the meals around vegan recipes with meat as a side, which made life easier all round.” 22 CONNOLLY STREET, CLONAKILTY, WEST CORK From vegan burgers to buddha bowls to lasagne and noodles, Tel: 023 8836938 [email protected] www.lettercollum.ie Vicki’s dishes are tasty and nutritious, ideal for family meals. To find out more about Vicki’s free cooking workshops, follow TUESDAY TO FRIDAY 9:30am to 4pm ‘lovevickiskitchen’ on Instagram. SATURDAY 10am to 4pm 26 April 30 – June 3, 2021 people Health & Lifestyle: A flavour of West Cork Skibbereen pupil winner in Fyffes search to find new banana dessert recipe

ifteen-year-old Skibbereen who works as a special needs Devised by Fyffes to mark generated amongst the public, pupil Claire Griffin is en- assistant, whilst father Brendan the annual National Banana Day Fyffes marketing manager, joying the ‘sweet’ taste of is a stonemason builder. The held recently, the invitation to Emma Hunt-Duffy said: “what’s Fsuccess having been chosen a top middle child of three, Claire’s ‘design a dessert’ was in-line really exciting to see is the winner in the recent nationwide older brother Daniel is studying with a similar event which took increasing number of young search by banana importer Fyffes for his leaving certificate and place last year when the chal- people now taking part in the to find a new mouth-watering younger brother Michael is in lenge was to capture the national competition; it’s fantastic that our dessert that has a banana as its second year. An avid baker since lockdown-relieving popularity baking challenge appeals to the key ingredient. a young age, Claire has ambi- of home cooking by asking next generation of cook-at-home Responding to the invitation tions to be an dietitian when she Ireland’s bake-at-home families enthusiasts”. fronted by celebrity cook, Donal leaves school. In addition to her to come forward with new and “Also noticeable is the extent Skehan, Claire was amongst a passion for cooking and baking, innovative recipes for banana to which entrants are willing to large group of what the popular Claire is a committed member of bread. experiment in finding new ingre- television presenter called ‘cre- Skibbereen Rowing Club. Complimenting what he dients and taste combinations, ative and inventive meal-makers’ In creating her prize-winning called ‘the exceptional level of especially when formulating reci- who accepted his challenge to entry, which she names ‘hazelnut skill’ revealed by all who took pes to suit those with particular design a desert that could be- and chocolate caramel cake’ and part in the Competition, Donal taste preferences and those with come a meal-topping choice on which won the ‘Best Junior Bak- Skehan said: “the success that allergies or other dietary needs,” tables around Ireland and abroad. er aged 13-17’ category, Claire Claire has achieved reflects the Ms. Hunt-Duffy added. A dedicated home economics combined a delicious fusion of dedication and devotion she puts Other category winners in pupil, currently studying for banana, and caramel, all topped into her baking and the obvious the competition are: 11-year-old from Drumcondra, Dublin (Best Dalpiaz from Killorglin, Co. her junior certificate, Claire is off with a mouth-watering, enjoyment she gets from it “. Clíodhna Mulkearns from Letter- Ingredients); Brianna Turner Kerry (Best Styling) and Kirsten joined at Skibbereen Community chocolate-flavour icing, grated Responding to the widespread kenny (Best Junior Baker under from Ennistymon, Co. Clare Meehan from Stoneybatter, School by her mother Mary, chocolate and chopped hazelnuts. level of interest that the event has 12 years); Roisin Gallagher (Best Gluten-Free); Alline Isense Dublin (Best Vegan). Entries for Blas na hÉireann 2021 now open ntries are now open to to our team, our partners in businesses pushed to the brink, producers all across UCC, IT Tralee and TU Dublin, the closure of the hospitality the country for Blas na our sponsors, the resilience sector left many producers with- EhÉireann 2021, with the very and innovation of our amazing out some of their key accounts. best in Irish food and drink being producers and our wider Blas However, with many producers judged in the largest blind-tasted community that we were able to pivoting their business quickly food awards on the island. The announce our 2020 winners in a and the general public getting far awards seek to reward the very virtual celebration last October. more interested in the quality of best, not just in their category It is with this experience under the food in their basket and on but to highlight the best of local our belt that we can confidently their plate, there were deep ties as well, including an award for launch Blas 2021 – knowing that made between communities and Best in County which is support- no matter what, we will celebrate their local producers. Our goal is ed by LEO Cork. the very finest Irish food and to build on this and ensure that “Blas na hEireann food drink in the best way possible.” when restaurants reopen, the ties awards acknowledges and These are exceptionally rig- made between the public and awards the best in class artisan orously-judged awards, as Blas these products remains. food producers that this island na hÉireann use an innovative We know that having a Blas has to offer the Irish and inter- blind-tasting judging system sticker on a product makes national consumer. We are very developed by Blas with the Food a difference to a producer’s proud to be part of the sponsor- Science Dept of UCC and the bottom line. Our 2020 winner of ship for the ‘Best in County’ University of Copenhagen that Best New Product, Kerry Kefir, awards every year.” Joe Burke, is now recognised as an industry increased sales by 50 per cent Assistant Head of Enterprise, gold standard worldwide. Last following the awards and is now South Cork. year, these systems were suc- stocked in six SuperValu stores “The last 12 months have cessfully moved from the cam- and six independent retailers. We doing just that.” approval could see it reach new €80 per entry (ex VAT). been like no other in the history pus in UCC to Dingle to work are passionate about Irish food So whether a new business heights and, most importantly, of Blas na hÉireann,” says within constraints of lockdown and drink and supporting the has flourished over the past 12 new customers. www.irishfoodawards.com Chairman Artie Clifford. “We and travel restrictions. independent producers as they months or an existing product is Entries for Blas na hÉireann could never have imagined what “2020 was an incredibly diffi- build their business and we’re being used in a brand new way, a 2021 are now open and will lay ahead when we launched last cult year,” says Blas na hÉireann looking forward to another suc- Blas na hÉireann gold stamp of close on May 28, fee for entry is year’s awards. It is testament Chairman Artie Clifford. “With cessful year of Blas na hÉireann

it’s clear that Irish people are According to industry reports, that’s full of wholefoods, like One in four vegetarian meat substitutes leaning towards eating more vegan is the third fastest grow- fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts of a plant-based diet. This is ing on-pack claim for food and and lentils is healthier,” she surveyed are not a source of protein ultimately a good thing. How- drink launches globally over said. My advice would be to ever, these are still packaged, the last five years, with sales look at the information panels he amount of beef-free ucts on sale in supermarkets high in protein. The research processed foods.” in the UK of meat-free foods on the back of the pack to really burgers, tofu-based sau- across Ireland. These products also found that among those “When we asked people forecasted to be more than €1 understand what’s in them.” sages and other so-called included plant-based alterna- who purchase these products, about vegetarian meat-substitute billion by 2024. The full report “Vegetarian, T‘meat alternatives’ on super- tives such as mince, burgers and one in three (34pc) people did products, one in three people “Many of these products plant-based meat substitutes; market shelves is booming, but sausages and are positioned in so because they perceived them thought they were healthy or appear to be healthier because Products available in super- new research from safefood has the same category of foods that to be ‘healthy/better for you.’ better for them,” Dr Conlon of the marketing around them,” markets on the island of Ireland found that many of these plant- provide protein such as meat, Introducing the research, Dr said. “However, many of these added Dr Conlon. “We know and consumer behaviours and based meat substitutes are not a poultry, eggs, fish, nuts and Catherine Conlon, Director of plant-based products are simply when something says ‘plant- perceptions” can be down- source of, or high in protein. beans. However, safefood found Human Health and Nutrition highly processed foods – if you based’ or ‘low’ in something, loaded from the safefood web- The safefood research looked that 25 per cent of processed at safefood said: “Judging by think about it, eating a sausage we perceive it to be healthier site; www.safefood.net. at the nutritional content of 354 vegetarian meat-substitute the number of meat substi- roll whether that’s plant-based because it’s made from plants. vegetarian meat substitute prod- products are not a source of, or tute products now available, or meat, is still a sausage roll.” “Eating a plant-based diet April 30 – June 3, 2021 27 people Health & Lifestyle Is worry or anxiety keeping you awake at night? work life balance and seem to foods limited or missing. I find restore your sleep and recover be eating a healthy diet with that there is so much infor- from worry and anxiety. lots of fruit and vegetables. For mation available about what a If you have any questions on them, the problem is also one healthy diet is, people are con- what the right approach is for of balance – eating the right fused. It is often overlooked that you please get in touch. I am foods at the right time is very we are each unique and even looking forward to speaking to important to maintaining blood something healthy like a tomato you. sugar balance and this is one of can be good for one person and he main reasons people wake cause a food sensitivity, diges- Amanda Roe is an Acupunc- in the night, as they do not have tive problem or sleep issues for turist, Clinical Hypnotherapist enough fuel to stabilise their another. and Life and Health Coach. blood sugar for long periods If you are finding worry or For more information or to without eating. anxiety keeping you awake at book a session call or text 087 Amanda Roe When I sit down with some- night, taking a holistic approach 633 1898 or email amanda@ Trauma therapist one and we look at what their considering your emotions, marketstclinic.com & Mind coach lifestyle and diet is like, we of- stress, diet and lifestyle, will ten find it is heavily weighted in give you the information and Scientists now call the gut one food category with essential the action steps you need to your second brain. About 90 per cent of the nerve fibres in the primary visceral nerve, the n traditional Chinese medi- of foods in your diet. vagus nerve, carry information cine worry, anxiety, insom- Everyone knows that emo- from the gut to the brain and not nia, excessive dreaming, and tional stress affects mental and the other way around. So an un- Ipoor memory are all connected physical health; it keeps our happy gut could actually be the Take Back Your Health with your emotions, stress and mind active at night causing reason why you’re lying awake Mental and Emotional worrying or feeling anxious at digestive health. overthinking, worry, and anxi- Trauma, PTSD, Anxiety, Stress, Depression, night. Insomnia refers to a number ety, which can affect our quality Addiction, Worry, Anger, Grief, Fear, Panic, of different problems includ- of sleep and energy levels. The link between diet, stress, ing the inability to fall asleep Lack of sleep and sleep- lifestyle and sleep quality is Gut Health and Eating Disorders easily, waking during the night, ing at the wrong time of day really obvious when someone Emotional eating, Cravings, Weightloss, IBS sleeping restlessly, waking-up affects the balance of serotonin is working nightshifts, skipping Control issues, OCD, ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia. early in the morning and and melatonin hormones that meals and eating junk food. By dream-disturbed sleep. Whilst control your circadian (Sleep) simply restoring the correct bal- Natural Hormone Balancing acupuncture and herbs are very rhythm, worsening the problem. ance to your diet it is possible to Fertility, Pregnancy Care, Fatigue, Insomnia helpful to manage stress and What many people don’t real- influence your mood, your men- Dysfunctional Bleeding, Anemia, Menopause. modulate the bodies functions, ise is that your digestive health tal health, your physical health, the amount and quality of your affects your mental health, your and improve your sleep. Solutions for Children, Teens, Adults and Parents Insomnia or sleep difficulties sleep is also greatly affected by ability to manage stress and, can Amanda Roe 087 633 1898 / [email protected] the amount of stress in your life lead to feelings of anxiety and also affect people who, on the and having the correct balance unexplained patterns of worry. surface, seem to have a healthy

We have a great partnership People of Cork to share ‘One Sunrise with Electric Ireland and the company have been unwavering in their support over the years. Together’ on May 8 for Darkness into Light We are grateful too for our Darkness into Light commit- ne year on from when amazing with over €4 million cent in December 2020 versus Notes from the ambassadors are tees who galvanise support for the country went into raised following a tremendous December 2019, and Pieta is ex- available to read at electri- the event across the country lockdown, Pieta’s ser- public fundraising effort to pecting the pandemic burden to cireland.ie/sunrise-notes. year after year. It’s important Ovices are in demand more than ensure Pieta could continue to have far reaching implications Pieta is also encouraging for all of us to hold on to hope ever and they need the public’s deliver their services through throughout 2021. the nation to take pen to paper and Darkness Into Light gives support. Electric Ireland is 2020. Pieta’s counselling services to write their own Sunrise us the opportunity to come proud to support Pieta for a In 2021, Covid-19 continues have remained available Note and share their stories of together under this one common ninth year and together with to impact not only the nations throughout lockdown with finding hope in the darkness purpose, to remember our loved Pieta are encouraging people to physical health but its mental phone, video and face-to-face online using the hashtag, ones and to help those strug- register at www.darknessintoli- health too; it has impacted appointments. In 2020, Pieta #DIL2021. The concept of gling at this time, and I do hope ght.ie to take part in a special everything from people’s delivered over 52,000 hours writing and sharing a heartfelt you will all join us on May 8.” Darkness into Light that can financial stability to their social of therapy and answered over note will help normalise the Although there are no organ- unite us all whilst still staying habits. People are struggling 70,000 calls and texts for help challenges people have been ised walks this year, Pieta and physically apart. By taking with loneliness; a fact that is through their 24/7 crisis help- facing this year, bringing people Electric Ireland are still urging part in Darkness Into Light, worsened with physical distance line. The Cork Centre helped together through shared expe- the nation to sign up and mark participants will unite in every measures in place. Pieta relies 1,241 people in 2020 and pro- riences of finding light in the this special Darkness Into Light corner of Ireland to help shine on the generous support of those vided 21,346 hours of counsel- darkness. sunrise within Covid guidelines a light on suicide and self-harm who participate in Darkness ling in 2020 and 2019. Pieta has Speaking about this year’s on May 8 to show support to while raising vital funds for Pie- Into Light each year to provide provided a further 20,949 hours Darkness into Light, Elaine those impacted by suicide. ta’s lifesaving services. this important national mental of counselling in the Cork area Austin, Pieta CEO, said; So, get involved for Dark- Last year when it wasn’t health service free of charge, through its phone/text helpline “We have all been faced with ness Into Light whether that’s possible to all walk together for 24/7. While Covid-19 has been in 2020 and 2019. some incredible and daunting writing a sunrise note, walking, Darkness into Light, Pieta faced difficult Darkness Into Light is a Every single person faces challenges over the last year. running, swimming, hiking, a funding crisis, but Ireland chance for communities to look challenges and Pieta worked Pieta is here to support all of biking or simply sharing your came together as one commu- towards brighter days to come with well-known ambassadors, those in suicidal crisis and our sunrise snap using the hashtags, nity and got behind the event, while sharing One Sunrise including Miriam O Callaghan, free counselling has continued, #BrighterTogether, #DIL2021. with hundreds of thousands Together on May 8. Donal Ryan and Oliver Dingley uninterrupted throughout the since last year, we now provide Because under one sunrise, rising at dawn and sharing sun- Calls and texts to Pieta’s who shared Sunrise Notes, Covid lockdowns. Our clinical free counselling over video. we’re brighter together. rise moments from across the helpline directly relating to detailing how they have found team provide services over the Darkness Into Light is crucial Sign up now at www.dark- country. The support that shone suicide, self-harm and suicide light in the dark, especially phone, via text and in-person in in delivering the funds needed nessintolight.ie through was nothing short of bereavement rose by 25 per over the last 12 months. Sunrise twenty centres nationwide and, to support this level of service. 28 April 30 – June 3, 2021 people Health & Lifestyle Time to take a breather times. We have been required to to endure. The exhaustion and and can make us less reactive see what needs to be done on It can be hard sometimes to cope with a series of rapid and fatigue that I am hearing about and less irritable. Mindfulness any day. What about including begin or maintain a practice by unexpected events and then a needs to be attended to, but meditation also helps us to deal mindfulness meditation on yourself, so if you need some much longer-than-anticipated sometimes lives and minds can with stress and anxiety and with this list every day? Can we support to begin or deepen time period where things have seem so full and so busy that we managing difficult emotions. afford this equal importance your mindfulness meditation remained quite unsettled. This might not know where or how I would encourage everyone to anything else on the list? A practice, you are very wel- has undoubtedly had an impact to begin. Practising mindfulness to try it out, not just once, but participant in one of my groups come to get in touch with any on our health and wellbeing, meditation is one way in which repeatedly, as practising this recently suggested making a questions or queries. My online both positively and negatively. we can create precious time for type of meditation regularly ‘to be’ list, instead of a ‘to do’ meditation sessions via Zoom MENTAL HEALTH Dealing with such an inordinate reflection and space to process is hugely supportive during list, which I thought sounded run consistently on Monday, amount of change and uncer- all that has happened, how we times like this, when we may be like a good idea. What about Wednesday and Friday at 8pm, & MINDFULNESS tainty has been very stressful are feeling about it and how we feeling a little frayed around the combining the two? If you are please do consider joining in, Susan O’Regan and we need to take our time are managing through it. During edges or a bit anxious. When anything like me, you might whether you have tried mind- now to process the ways in recent months, I have found we consciously take the time to forget things if they are not fulness meditation before or are which Covid has impacted us, myself working increasingly, pause and reflect, we may dis- written down and by including new to it. These small group Susan O’Regan teaches mind- on a wide range of levels, not not only with individuals and cover that it brings a little ease mindfulness meditation and/or sessions are personal, down- fulness and self-compassion least, physically, mentally, and small groups, but with several to our everyday lives and in fact some other form of self-care in to-earth, informal and donation courses and workshops through- socially. So much has changed, organisations and staff teams, creates a sense of having more our daily plan, we are giving it based. Individual sessions are out West Cork. for all of us, and there is such focusing on creating valuable time, by settling the mind and a sense of value, as something also available. For more information contact: great value now, in literally space for people to reflect making a little space to notice that is non-negotiable. Self-care For more information on susanoreganmindfulness@ taking a breather, making time on how they are living and and tend to how we are feeling. will not happen automatically upcoming workshops and gmail.com Mob: 087 2700572. to meditate and reflect, to ap- working, exploring what has Maybe we can decide now nor should it be left to chance, online courses please like my preciate the positives, as well as already resourced them through to clear some space in our day it needs to be ‘intentional’ and Facebook page (Mindhaven) softly touching in with the more this time of change, and what is for meditation and/or reflection. plentiful, especially given the or feel free to get in touch by ver the course of this difficult stuff. needed now for sustained health Creating little self-care rituals year we have all had. Try not to phone: 087 2700572 or by past year, we have all Many people are feeling de- and wellbeing. can be useful, like writing wait until you are totally deplet- email: susanoreganmindful- been catapulted well pleted by the impact of rolling Research shows that mind- things down to help de-clutter ed; begin now, by taking a few [email protected] Oand truly out of our comfort lockdowns and this prolonged fulness meditation has a range our minds. Plus, putting things nice, long deep breaths to calm zones and change can be period of stress that we continue of health and wellbeing benefits on a page or a list can help us and soothe the mind and body. difficult, even at the best of Clonakilty Daffodil Day Committee says thank you after over €40,000 raised locally for the Irish Cancer Society

Ardfield NS raised €2817 for Daffodil Day. Pictured are pupils Lily Daly and Lucy Hodgins. Darrara Community Centre committee members Garda Damian White and Paul McManus, (Chairperson), before they presented a cheque for €1,500 to the Clonakilty Daffodil Day ast year Daffodil Day said the committee. shops, shops, businesses, vari- fund. The money was raised online by the community over a period of two weeks in the was cancelled and when “We won’t name names here ous community centres, garda aftermath of a webinar organised by the Community Centre, in which Damian spoke about the call came this year as the support we received stations, banks and co-ops who his own cancer diagnosis a few years ago. They had set an initial target of €300 but were Lfrom the Irish Cancer Society to was just incredible, so we are raised incredible money for us, Pic: Darrara CC PRO see if the Clonakilty commit- going to say a collective huge we are so grateful. delighted to have raised five times that amount. . tee could fundraise for them, thank you to all who walked, “Our two amateur fundrais- it felt like an insurmountable ran, swam, kayaked, cycled, ers, Cian and Shay (have to gering amount of €12,072.00; or online, please know that we so doing, it will ensure that no challenge. However, heads pushed or indeed did any- name names here!), it’s so good it’s no wonder the ICS are now appreciate each and every dona- patient has to walk the lonely were put together and the idea thing else for our Dash, and to to see young people actively targeting the other schools in tion, little or large. It all makes cancer journey on their own. of the ‘Daffodil Day Dash’ was those who encouraged others to fundraising for such a worthy the country! They have always a difference and because of all “So again, a very sin- formed. get involved. cause, and the amount of mon- been and continue to be amazed those donations, our fundraising cere thank you to every- “Never in our wildest dreams “To the businesses that ey they both raised – incredible. at the amount of money you all efforts this year for 2021 have one, stay safe, stay well did we think it would become allowed us to use their premises “Our schools, you are the manage to raise for us year on raised the staggering amount of and hopefully we will be back such a success and that so, so as a collection point, and in so envy of every school and town year, so thank you a thousand €41,672.50. Please be assured to our coffee day gathering in many individuals and busi- doing, collected thousands of in the country. In such difficult times. this will make such a difference 2022.” nesses would get behind us and euros for us, thank you. times in all schools, you came Finally, to everyone who to so many cancer patients, support our fundraising efforts,” “All the restaurants, coffee together and raised the stag- donated funds, cash, cheques their families and friends and in April 30 – June 3, 2021 29 people Health & Lifestyle What is Liquid Chlorophyll and what are the benefits?

HEALTH Hannah Dare natural chlorophyll there is. natural food-based Super Green ticancer effects of chlorophyll. Organico Bantry When people first started supplement, because they have One 2001 study from Johns coming in looking for ‘Liquid been around much longer and Hopkins found that “taking Chlorophyll’ we were a little we have had many positive chlorophyllin or eating green ikTokers are currently bemused. In Organico we have reports of how well people feel vegetables – that are rich in infatuated with Chlo- so many different Super Green when they take them. chlorophyll – may be a practical rophyll and the craze supplements that all contain Many people take Super way of reducing the risk of liver Thas even reached West Cork – high levels of natural chloro- Green supplements for the an- cancer and other cancers caused we’ve had a number of young phyll that it’s hard to know tioxidant they contain. Because by environmental triggers,” as people coming in recently where to start – Liquid Gold the water and sometimes even explained in a press release by asking for Liquid Chlorophyll is a particularly popular liquid the fibre has been taken out, study author Thomas Kensler, because they have watched vid- multivitamin for example (it’s this is a way of getting a very PhD. However the research eos claiming that it is great for actually green not gold). Then concentrated dose of nutrients, is limited on the specific role everything from aiding weight you have Chlorella, Spirulina, which can help fill the gaps chlorophyll might play in loss to clearing up acne. But Wheatgrass, Barleygrass, and if your diet isn’t quite up to cancer treatment, and “there just what is Chlorophyll and why is options like NuZest Green scratch, or you feel that you isn’t enough data at this point to it suddenly so popular? Vitality powder (I’m taking this need a tonic to get over illness support these benefits.” Chlorophyll is actually all at the moment, and it certainly or get through a stressful period So what’s the take home mes- around us – literally so in Ire- works as a morning energy of time. sage from this Tik Tok Chloro- land, since it’s what gives grass boost). But while all these Antioxidants work as an- phyll craze? Chlorophyll occurs and leaves their green colour! superfood liquids and powders ti-inflammatory agents inside naturally in most of the plants It is also what allows plants to contain chlorophyll, they aren’t the body, helping improve the we eat, so ramping up your convert sunshine into nutrients called ‘Liquid Chlorophyll’. body’s immune function and green vegetable intake (particu- via photosynthesis. Supplements actually called response, as well as helping larly with veggies like spinach, One of the primary ways of Chlorophyll drops and Liquid to protect our cells from the kale and cabbage) is a natural including chlorophyll in the Chlorophyll aren’t entirely destructive effects of pollution way to increase the amount of diet is by eating green veg- chlorophyll however. These and toxins in our food and chlorophyll in your diet. How- etables, such as kale, alfalfa contain ‘chlorophyllin’, a semi- environment. ever, if you are interested in tak- supplements will also contain Try your local Health Food and spinach. Wheatgrass is synthetic, water-soluble version Super Green supplements ing a chlorophyll supplement, protein, vitamin E, magnesium, Shop, or if you prefer to shop particularly rich in chlorophyll of chlorophyll created by are also widely taken to boost we would recommend you phosphorus and many other online we have a list of the and is available to purchase as combining sodium and copper energy and endurance, and look to a natural super-greens essential nutrients. As always, Super Green supplements we a powder, juice, or capsule, or salts with chlorophyll. This is some would be taken instead of supplement that contains ingre- we would advise you look for carry under the Health category if you are very adventurous you a water soluble, so it’s unlikely a multivitamin. dients such as Wheatgrass Juice a good quality brand, and make on www.organico.ie. For more can grow and juice your own. to cause any problems if too As some people on TikTok Powder, Spirulina, Chlorella or sure the ingredients are organi- advice email us on info@organ- Wheatgrass Juice is probably much is taken, but we would have alluded to, scientists have Blue Green Algae. As well as cally grown. ico.ie. Have a great month! the most concentrated form of still prefer to see people taking a also researched the potential an- containing chlorophyll, these Darrara “Zest4Life” Patient advocacy service offers support May classes to people in Cork arrara Community include practical health advice, Centre, like similar recipes, meal planning, health newly established patient them to get information on the Service manager for the looking for advocacy support to facilities around the tips, weight management and advocacy service is of- HSE’s complaints investigation patient advocacy service, Claire make a formal complaint, you Dcountry, remains closed due wellness vision planning. fering support to people process, called ‘Your Service, Lehane, said: “Until now, people can contact the helpline on 0818 to the pandemic restrictions. The four 15-minute classes Ain the Cork area who want to Your Say’. in Cork and across Ireland who 293003. The helpline is open However, this hasn’t stopped will take place at 10am on make a complaint about the care The professionally trained experienced difficulties in the Monday to Friday from 10am its committee from meeting up Wednesday mornings starting they have received in a public independent advocate will Irish health service often felt until 4pm, including lunchtimes. (online) and organising events this coming week, May 5. hospital. support and empower the person there was nowhere for them to You can also email info@patien- for their community. Following Topics over the four weeks The patient advocacy service making the complaint, with the turn. tadvocacyservice.ie. several successful webinars, will include ‘Breaking the provides free, independent and aim of highlighting their views “The newly established ser- The patient advocacy service and a great online fundraiser snack habit’; ‘Eating more confidential information and and concerns. vice offers patients the guidance was commissioned by the for Daffodil Day, their next plant-based foods’; ‘Balancing support to people making a The advocate will explain to and information they need to National Patient Safety Office venture is a free online four- your plate and easy-to-assemble formal complaint about their the person how to write a formal make a complaint when they are in the Department of Health week health programme with family meals’ and ‘How to care in a Health Service Execu- complaint and what to include in unhappy with the care they re- and is provided by the National Certified Nutritionist Michelle escape the sugar trap’. Tasty tive (HSE) funded public acute it. They will also help the person ceive. It is free, independent and Advocacy Service for People Ryan, who will coach people to nutritional recipes will be pro- hospital. prepare for meetings with the run by our professionally trained with Disabilities. The Patient re-think how they eat. vided weekly. People in the Cork area look- HSE about their complaint, patient advocates, who will use Advocacy Service receives no Michelle describes herself as The classes are free and open ing for support can contact the and they will help the person their compassion and knowledge funding from the HSE and is a ‘health nerd, foodie and well- to all and log in details for the service’s confidential helpline explore their options following a to guide people through the HSE therefore fully independent of ness advocate’. Her ‘Zest4life’ zoom talks are posted on the on 0818 293003 to speak to a response from the HSE to their complaints process.” the HSE. community nutrition classes Darrara CC Facebook page. trained advocate who will help complaint. For people in the Cork area 30 April 30 – June 3, 2021 people Health & Lifestyle Part 3 Aging dogs incorrectly Walking your dog: impacts their welfare positively reinforce what we ‘Heel’. (Again, it’s a really good want. idea to practice in the quiet of I suggested in last week’s your own home before you try article that you practice getting it out on a walk.) When your your dog to focus at home dog has passed the obstacle, before you venture outside for then let him ‘Walk on’ or ‘Go a walk. You see, when you take free’ on a longer lead. your dog for a walk, it’s so Keep your mobile in your stimulating for him. Did you pocket! You can’t concentrate know that when your dog sniffs on your dog if you’re texting a lamp post where another dog or reading messages. You has peed, he can tell the breed, also miss the signals your dog esearch carried out by However, while their bodies sex, and height of that other will give you if he’s excited, Dogs Trust has found our may be affected by health issues CANINE CORNER dog just from his ‘calling card’? aroused, or fearful of something dogs may not be in the when they’re still young, there’s Your dog also knows in which approaching. If you’ve picked Rage category we think they are, no evidence that short-lived Liz Mahony direction the dog was going up the signals early on by pay- and the findings will enable all breeds age behaviourally as they and if he’s a ‘regular’ or new ing attention to them, then you of us to take better care of our appear to be following the same Liz Mahony is an experienced to the neighbourhood. That’s can take action such as crossing four-legged friends. trajectory as other dogs. In other Dog Trainer and Holistic heady stuff. So then your dog the road, or giving your dog Many people believe that dogs words, short-lived dog breeds Therapist for all animals. In her leaves his ‘calling card’ for any the handle of the leash. You plenty of space. age seven years for every one are not aging faster, they are monthly column, Liz aims to passing canine! No wonder consciously keep your right Another useful tip to practice human year, but the charity’s simply dying younger. promote mutual respect between dogs have a difficulty listening hand loose around the lead and when your dog is excited is researchers have discovered it’s The language we use to carer and dog. Contact Liz at to us when outside. But, it’s so you can move it up or down as to change his focus. Have a not that simple. Dogs mature describe dogs and consider their more quickly than people do. age matters. By saying that these corkdogtrainingclasses.com important to allow your dog to you see fit. If you need him to pocketful of longer, high-value ‘read’ this information. come closer to you, your right treats. He sees another dog Many one-year-old dogs have dogs are aging faster and using First and foremost, I believe hand moves down the lead, and approaching and begins to pull, usually reached their full height, language such as ‘geriatric’ to he other day I was on a it’s important to hold the lead up the lead if you are giving bark or whatever. Stand still and and most will have also gone describe a dog that is objectively particular Facebook page in both hands. I described how him more freedom. Another put yourself in between. Try through puberty or be approach- still young, and a dog that should about dogs. Someone to use both connections of a advantage is that you can keep offering him one of those treats ing the end of it, so they’re most be in the prime of its life, we’re Thad a new puppy and wanted to him on your right or left hand definitely not the equivalent of a masking the health and welfare double-ended lead attached to a but keep hold of the other end know how to get him to walk harness last month. But, if you side. Also, loosening your firm, between your finger and thumb. seven-year-old human. issues associated with certain quietly on the lead. One guy are using just one attachment, static grip on the lead lessens Encourage your dog to nibble In Ireland, the average breeds of dog.” lifespan of a pet dog is approxi- The review concluded there replied that the first few times then it’s important that your the tension in your own body. at the other end. It’s almost like mately 12 years, but some reach is evidence to suggest that a he put his dog on lead he held lead is attached to a ring on the There are definitely times offering him a soother so he the ripe old age of 15 and over. one-year-old dog is indeed still it so tightly near his leg and front of your dog’s chest. If when you need your dog to keeps sucking at it while pos- As some breeds live far shorter juvenile just coming out from walked his puppy until he got you connect it to the one on his walk closely beside you in order sibly glancing at the oncoming lives than others, it is common puberty (so the comparison to a used to not pulling! I suspect back, you have no control and to safely pass people, obstacles dog or person. If he manages to adjust a dog’s estimated age 15-year-old is about right) and the only lesson he taught his end up ‘wind-surfing’ behind and so on. You can teach him to stay calm, then he deserves a by their breed life expectancy to that dogs don’t become mature pet in that moment was that your dog. Not only that, he’s not to do this by holding a treat in Jackpot! decide when they are ‘senior’ or adults until they’re two, which his own strength and force was the hand nearest to him and in balance because he can still If you’re really committed to ‘geriatric’. marks the end of adolescence superior! near your leg. Get him to focus lean and pull. teaching your dog how to walk Dr Naomi Harvey, Re- (equivalent to when people are I believe that if you ask your on the treat as you walk a few If you attach the lead to the on a lead then I recommend this search Manager at Dogs Trust aged around 25). Dr Harvey dog to ‘Sit’, ‘Stay’ ‘Walk on’ steps. If he manages this, then front of the harness, you can book: My Dog Pulls. What Do I explains: “Certain dog breeds found that dogs can be consid- you want him to perform those move or turn his whole body. say, ‘Good’ and reward with the Do? by Turid Rugaas. commands by choice rather are expected to have shorter ered to be entering their senior Let’s say you are walking your treat as you keep walking. Once lifespans, with some, such as the years (when an animal is older than through fear or force. dog on your right, then you he has the hang of what you corkdogtrainingclasses.com That’s why we use rewards to Great Dane, having an average but typically still quite healthy) slip your left hand through want, then add the cue such as life expectancy of just six years. at age seven, and that they can In terms of their health, sadly be classified as geriatric (a stage these dogs do decline quickly, of aging where poor health or meaning they need additional death becomes most likely), at A call to women veterinary care when they’re age 12 and over. much younger than other dogs. here is so much to be For everyone. pushing parts of myself down said for the times we are So, if you are just start- into despair. I knew there had waking up in; the least ing out or if you have been to be another way and if there Warning on edible products Tof which is all the change that marching to the music in your wasn’t – well then, I would must take place in order for the own soul for many years, or invent one. containing cannabis human race to rise enough to even if you feel completely lost If you are really ready to The Food Safety Authority of Ireland has issued a warning for consum- take up their missions and pur- and disconnected and longing take a leap of faith, to not let ers about the danger associated with eating edible products, such as jelly poses on this wonderful planet. to discover who you really are; anyone stand in your way and sweets, containing cannabis components. This warning comes following NATURE TALKS The greatest of times call your mission is waiting for you to only trust in the inner guiding a number of recent incidents whereby edible products containing on the most ordinary people to to claim it. voice that connects you to all significant levels of the psychotropic cannabis component tetrahydrocan- nabinol (THC) were intercepted by An Garda Síochana and Revenue’s April Dannan take on tremendous paths and To be honest, I was never of life and creation, you will be Customs Service. In at least one incident, sweets containing cannabis oil anchor specific energy in certain drawn to business. I never Universally supported in finding were consumed by a number of teenagers, one of whom subsequently April Danann is a food influ- locations throughout the earth knew I had it in me to start up, your mission and developing suffered serious adverse health effects requiring hospitalisation. The encer, creating new trends in – vibrations and awareness that develop and run a successful your purpose. particular sweets were apparently purchased online with the packaging healthy sustainable living as envelop and shape all of us anything. I was only ever told Finding, following and then carrying explicit warnings to eat the sweets cautiously and that a signifi- part of her clinical practice as as we walk through these first and thus believed the opposite. creating a better life is not for cant concentration of THC was present. a Naturopath Herbalist Herbal steps out of the darkness and It wasn’t until I was backed everyone; it takes a little bit of a THC is a controlled substance in Ireland with no tolerance level set in Nutritionist Intuitive. She lives into the light. into a corner so far and let down rebel to go against the tide and the Misuse of Drugs Act, 1977. According to Dr Pamela Byrne, Chief in West Cork where she is a Women are being called to by so many that I had to come do what must be done and to Executive, FSAI, THC is a toxic contaminant and should not be added natural bee keeper and can often resume their posts and to open out of this shell and make things not back down. Being female is to any food. The FSAI is liaising with other Government agencies including the be found in the hedgerows. up their hearts, dust off their work in my life better than they the greatest asset you can have, Health Service Executive, An Garda Síochana and Revenue’s Customs dreams and put them into ac- ever had before. your inner compass has already Service to detect and stop the import and sale of these dangerous prod- tion. All over the world women I was tired of living pay- activated and it’s leading you ucts into Ireland. The FSAI urges anybody in a position of influence to are waking up, looking around check to paycheck, following towards your mission. educate children about the dangers of these illicit products and alert the them and wanting to create someone else’s ideas of how the Are you ready to rise? FSAI or other enforcement agencies where they have information about something better. world should be, all the while the availability of these products. April 30 – June 3, 2021 31 people Health & Lifestyle The blossom of the Hawthorn s the amazing spectacle capacity due to stage II heart punch. Interestingly, Mexico of the blackthorn cov- failure. The herbalist sees it as uses hawthorn to treat diabe- ered in white blossom treating heart fire (antispasmod- tes and it is considered very Afades, we are honoured with the ic) and uses it in coronary heart effective in the early stages of pink and white blossom of haw- disease, congestive heart failure, the condition. thorn adorning the hedgerows angina, post-myocardial infarc- Returning to Europe, Turkey during May. tion rehabilitation, and cardiac also uses hawthorn to treat This bush is rich in folklore weakness following infectious diabetes as well as rheumatism, and a lone hawthorn tree is disease. cardiac pathologies, asthma, HERBAL associated with the ‘sí’. These It is a vasodilator for the and nephritis. Hawthorn vinegar bushes are also to be found near coronary arteries and will is produced in some local areas HEALING wells that have a reputation for strengthen and slow down the and the fruits and flowers are Dr. Rosari Kingston healing. Hawthorn also makes heart. As a vasodilator, it reduc- also consumed as tea. excellent fuel for burning and is es peripheral resistance and de- This bush, then, deserves considered better even than oak. creases the heart rate and blood more than a glance as we Dr. Rosari Kingston PhD, M.Sc Charcoal made from it is even pressure from exertion. The drive by and note its amaz- (Herbal medicine) is a medi- but Mashour et al (1998) have oxycantha’, more like small more effective for generating European Medicines Agency ing blossom. Chile exported cal herbalist practising in Dr. reported that Hawthorn enhanc- crab apples, bright red and tart. heat. (EMA), in its 2016 monograph ninety-three ton of its berries to O’Reilly’s integrative clinical es the activity of digitalis. They may be stoned and roasted Hawthorn, or ‘Crataegus oxy- on the leaf and flower, notes its Europe in 2007 and continues to practice in Clonakilty, Co. Cork It may also be used for and are sold on street corners in cantha’ to give it its Latin name, long-established use for the re- do so. Maybe, some horticultur- as well as Church Cross, Skib- diarrhoea if this is caused by North China as a popular snack belongs to the Rosaceae family lief of “symptoms of temporary al enterprise could be encour- bereen. Dr. Kingston’s area of heat in the intestines and in food, which is a lovely way to with the flowers being cooling nervous cardiac complaints (for aged to develop a hawthorn research are the healing modal- Chinese medicine the haws of reduce cholesterol. They are and the berries slightly more example palpitations, perceived that would give a slightly larger ities present in Irish vernacular ‘Crataegus pinnatifida’ are used also used to make haw flakes, bitter, but still cooling. extra heart beat due to mild berry so would be easier to har- medicine and she incorporates for blood stasis. In the Irish tra- jams, jellies and alcoholic Medicinally, hawthorn may anxiety)…and for relief of mild vest, but even the current haw them, where possible, into her dition we call that thick blood, drinks. In Mexico, the fruits of be used by most people and is symptoms of mental stress and could be crushed and made into clinical practice. In her clinical and it presents with symptoms their native hawthorn (Cratae- well known as a cardiac seda- to aid sleep.” Interestingly, they a paste or pate or some other practise she specialises in infer- such as menstrual cramps, and gus Mexicana) are also put to tive, with the New York Heart also acknowledge that no in- delicacy. Anyhow this month, tility and digestive issues. lower abdominal pain. The use and are eaten raw, cooked, Association seeing it being teractions with other medicinal we can all start off with a cup of www.rosarikingstonphd.com haws of the ‘Crataegus pinnati- made into jam, and also cooked useful in deteriorating cardiac products have been recorded, fida’ are larger than ‘Crataegus with other fruits for a Christmas tea made from its blossom. The double-edged Recognising the differences between hay fever and Covid immunity sword s hay fever season COVID-19. The below IPU begins, the Irish Phar- graphic illustrating the differ- macy Union (IPU) has ences is very useful.” day Zoom meeting for A&E malignant melanoma. They are Aissued advice on recognising the Ms Horan also provided some doctors, of which a highlight for called checkpoint drugs. This difference in symptoms between general advice on managing hay me was a presentation by a UK is a major change, a paradigm hay fever and COVID-19. With fever, “Sufferers should monitor cancer specialist. shift, as they say, in treating one in five Irish people living the pollen forecast and take Cancer therapy with drugs cancer and is certainly very with hay fever, it is important particular care when the count involves giving one that targets exciting! that people understand how to is high. You can reduce hay rapidly dividing cells like can- If you understand what recognise the key differences; fever symptoms by doing the cer cells, however there is col- happens when immunity goes for example, a fever or chills is following: lateral damage, as normal cells wrong you will get to grips common with COVID-19 but • Keep doors and windows get damaged as well, leading to with most illnesses that I come isn’t seen in those suffering with closed at home and when nasty side effects. Worldwide across. The immune system’s to treating hay fever is finding hay fever. driving; trials have established the best attack on oneself, called autoim- the treatment that works for you. Hay fever, also known as • Apply a little Vaseline inside drugs to use for a particular munity, causes Type 1 diabetes Pharmacists are highly trained DOCTOR’S seasonal allergic rhinitis, is the nose to trap pollen and cancer treatment: This has been if directed at the pancreas, your health professionals and experts caused by pollen and spores stop it being inhaled; successful and many cancers bowel, colitis, joints, rheuma- in medicines and can play a sig- ORDERS creating an allergic reaction • Wear sunglasses, preferably are now curable with certain toid, skin, psoriasis and so on. nificant role in the management affecting the nose and sinuses. wraparound glasses which pre- Dr Jeff Featherstone drug combinations, for example So we have to be careful if we of allergies, including hay fever. While it can occur at any time vent pollen entering the eyes; acute leukaemia in children. liberate the really effective T “Obviously, during the of year, sufferers are particularly • Don’t mow the grass and Dr Featherstone is a high- But back to immunity…bear Cells against cancer that we do current pandemic, people should impacted from the spring until avoid working in the garden; ly experienced medic and with me, as this is amazing! In not cause these autoimmune only make essential journeys, autumn. Although hay fever is • Don’t dry clothes outside if health, as millions of new cells diseases where the body attacks and for some, including the award-winning doctor who a relatively common condition, possible; and are made each day, this often itself. Steroids work in many over-70s, those with underlying works in a busy GP practice in the symptoms can be extremely • Wash your hair, hands and goes wrong – the body detects autoimmune diseases, as they health conditions, and people West Cork, as well as at Mercy unpleasant. face when you come back in- the abnormal cell and bumps modify immunity. They are who have either symptoms or University Hospital and Cork Ann Marie Horan, a commu- doors and change your clothes it off. All good. So what goes called immune-modulators. a diagnosis of COVID-19 (or University Hospital, as an A&E nity pharmacist and Executive to get rid of any pollen.” wrong when cancer cells ap- However combining tradi- if a member of their household doctor. Committee member of the IPU, pear? The cleaning-up operation tional cancer therapies with the does), they should not leave issued the following advice Pharmacists also warn that as is limited and cannot cope. new checkpoint drugs is most their homes. However, you can to hay fever sufferers, “Hay hay fever is a significant trigger ost of us appreciate However we now know that promising and now being used, still phone your pharmacist for fever can make life miserable, for asthma, asthma patients that vaccination advice, and medicine delivery our immunity has the potential which is why us A&E doctors especially for people with should ensure they carry their against Covid is good options are available for those to kill off cancer cells big time need to be aware of this exciting severe symptoms. However, inhaler at all times and use it as Mand likely to get us back to nor- if this can be unlocked. Enter development. who must stay at home.” the condition can often be ef- prescribed. mal and, while we all talk ex- Ms Horan added, “With the T Killer Cells; the cavalry If you have stayed awake you fectively managed with a range Up to date information on pertly about new variants, spike everyone on high alert for arrives and the battle is won. are now bang up to date with of treatment options, including pollen forecasts in your region proteins, T Killer Cells, PCR COVID-19 symptoms, it can Drugs, which unlock this poten- immune-modulation in cancer antihistamines, decongestants, can be found at: www.met.ie/ tests and so on, I have some be difficult to rationalise which tial, are now available and being treatment and the double-edged corticosteroid nasal sprays and forecasts/pollen better news about immunity. symptoms could be hay fever used with great success against immunity sword. More next anti-allergy eye-drops. The key I recently attended a three- particularly nasty cancers like month! and which are associated with 32 April 30 – June 3, 2021 people Health & Lifestyle Looking in Fern Higgins Atkinson self was wrong; “what struck , chairperson of BRÓD and me was the idea that it doesn’t Maitiú Mac Cárthaigh Youth Development Officer in the Ability Programme, happen in nature; this idea led West Cork Development Partnership, chats with Maitiú to a prevailing sense that there Mac Cárthaigh. Maitiú speaks about his experiences as was something very wrong with a young gay man, growing up in rural West Cork, and me. This further led to feelings of alienation and a growing how they have influenced, shaped, and informed his tension between me and other journey into art. people”. Maitiú was talking about his growing sense of his sexual orientation, a discovery and found a space in my family my eyes to the way it was, and that heterosexual people often and, as a creative and grounded is, for him; an out gay man in take for granted: The discovery man. I know his family, where rural Ireland. We are complex as of likes and dislikes, attraction he comes from, his home and humans, our relationships with and need, emotional and physi- community. They are familiar, ourselves, our communities, our cal bonding with others. Placing as they are spaces and localities peers. The musical artist, Joan yourself on a matrix in order that I also inhabit. I have spent as Policewoman discussed this, to compare and contrast in an most of my life living in rural ‘our human condition’, Maitiú attempt to understand who you West Cork. A beautiful space to discusses his truth, his human are. For developing young teen- be, beaches, mountains, walks, condition. agers, it is a time of enhanced LGBTI+ a rich and vibrant food and arts “I don’t know how to say emotions, trying to fit in, finding MATTERS scene, a special place to bring this in a nice way, there was an your tribe, a rite of passage. up a family, I could go on. For overarching dread that you’ll Maitiú realised that he was not people who were born and get found out. Like, everyone BRÓD is an LGBTI+ on the same sexual trajectory as a teacher and friends. But the support system of close friends raised, (or, imported and raised) knew.”. Maitiú grew up in rural Community Group based in most of his peers when he was growing sense of alienation led and teaching staff. His family in this gorgeous environment, West Cork, in an agricultural West Cork. A mix of LGBTI+ in primary school and talked me to leave West Cork”. had always been supportive of we feel a sense of connection setting. This was the opening to people and allies, the group’s about an overarching theme for Maitiú was very aware that their son, brother, grandchild, and belonging. ‘West Cork’, his exploration of life growing mission is to ‘Support, queer people – “’too boy for he did not want to paint a very nephew and cousin. We came they say, ‘sure you live in a bub- up and coming out in rural Ire- Advocate and Increase girls, and too girl for the boys’”, negative image for people; but back to the feeling of alienation ble down there’. It is true to an land. He further discussed this Visibility’ for the LGBTI+ this understanding brought with that the truth of it is that he did though; this was a feeling that extent, there is no doubt. But the dread and a feeling that some- community in West Cork. it a realisation of distance from have negative experiences. A caused distance and feelings of story that Maitiú shared does thing was wrong with him. His people; “It took me a long time theme running throughout our isolation for Maitiú, although not really conform to this idyll understanding of ‘normal’ was to figure out that I was gay and chat was the inner dialogue that he was in the midst of caring of West Cork. The stereotype created in comparison to his the distance from people was narrated Maitiú’s teenage years people. His questioning of the have known Maitiú for a of community and belonging, feelings of ‘abnormal’. Growing quite unnerving. People could – the voice that questioned very substance of his identity, number of years, as a long- the feelings of safe space and up in the country meant that be very understanding and and confronted, separated and the confusion it brought and, in time friend of one of my acceptance, proved to be ambig- he saw events in the natural welcoming, and in secondary isolated. Throughout school, as Idaughters, as a force of energy uous and fragile. Maitiú opened world and saw this as a further school I had great support from mentioned, he did have a good Continued on next page... that has frequented my home declaration that his intrinsic Marymount Hospice calls on the public The Beauty Spot... to support its gardening appeal Protect your skin with Neostrata n its second year of its We all know at this stage that long term exposure to UVA rays will cause fundraising campaigns and sun damage to the skin’s thickest layer – the dermis – and result in fine events being impacted by lines, wrinkles, uneven skin tone, hyperpigmentation and the potential ICovid-19, Marymount has been development of cancerous skin cells. Formulated using advanced labora- mindful not to put pressure on tory researched and tested ingredients, dermatologically driven skincare the public for support at this brand Neostrata includes a range of SPF creams to suit all skin types. turbulent time. Defend Sheer Physical Protector SPF 50 (Mineral Sunscreen) is an “We are very aware that ultra-sheer, lightweight mattifying treatment, formulated to provide this is a very difficult time for photostable, physical broad spectrum UVA/UVB protection with a sheer people at the moment with tint that blends with skin’s natural tone. financial and health uncertain- Enlighten Skin Brightener SPF35 is an antioxidant-enriched moistur- ty,” explains Paula McGovern, iser that combines NeoGlucosamine®, a gentle exfoliant with B-Resor- Head of Fundraising and Com- cinol, a known brightening agent, to reduce the look of age spots and munications with Marymount. provide a more even skin tone; “We have limited our appeals Skin Active Repair Matrix Support SPF 30 is an age-defying day to very specific campaigns. cream that targets the skins hydrating matrix to firm the skin’s appear- Our gardening appeal is one we ance and repair crow’s feet and expression lines. recently launched and one we hope people might support in a small way if at all possible. Thalgo brings the We hope to open up our garden justgiving.com. million each year to sustain the spaces to facilitate more visiting The impact of Covid-19 on current level of Marymount Mediterranean to you for families as soon as we can fundraising has certainly been services. while following all government felt by Marymount who again “As always the people of this summer guidelines. As we are unable to have had to cancel all regular Cork are great at rallying us and If we can’t plan our next trip to the French Riviera just yet, let’s have volunteer groups onsite at fundraising events and cam- supporting us in creative ways,” pretend we are there with the new revitalising and hydrating body present our gardens need some paigns in 2021 including the explains Ms McGovern. “While range Fraicheur (meaning Freshness) from THALGO. Infused with work to get us to a point of be- ongoing closure of the Friends we are feeling the pinch this citrus fruits and patented algae extracts from the Mediterranean Ocean, ing able to adequately facilitate of Marymount shop in Cork year we are also very apprecia- this range is a must have for awakening, refreshing and luminating safe family visiting.” City. Even with the closures and tive of people’s commitment the skin! The range includes a daily shower foam, an exfoliating scrub People who would like to cancellations the facility relies and support of us at this difficult (with Citric Acid to gently exfoliate alongside Aloe Vera to soothe and support Marymount’s Garden on fundraising to raise €3.5 time.” hydrate the skin), a silky moisturising gel and a hydrating body mist – Appeal can do so by going to all with a deliciously light aquatic fragrance. April 30 – June 3, 2021 33 people Health & Lifestyle ...Cont’d from previous page the earlier days of his teens, the self-doubt that arose, was com- plex and hard to understand. Maitiú discussed the misplaced and well-meaning comments in social spaces, in discos and at gatherings. “You can be my gay friend” was a common one. Even safe spaces with trusted people were invaded when Mai- tiú’s sexuality was brought up; a passing comment, an introduc- tion, an innocent yet misguided question on being gay. He says, “Allies, check yourselves! You might come from a good place, but please check yourselves before you say something”. We chatted about a workshop on LGBTI+ visibility that we had both attended but in different contexts and times. One thing that stayed with me from the workshop was when the pre- not only defined by his sexual now. Maitiú says that there have senter asked (to a predominant- orientation. His love of art com- been tangible improvements in ly straight, female audience); bined with his growing sense of the awareness and acceptance of “Can you imagine if, every time self, a burgeoning confidence the LGBTI+ community, even you met someone, they asked if that helped him to embrace the in the five or six years since he aging to young people seeking close, there were some pieces Maitiú found his catharsis, you were straight? How would reactions of others. He said he left school, but he does suggest information. While he admits to of learning that Maitiú wished his way of maintaining comfort, it make you feel? Would you aimed to make eyebrows rise, that there is still a long way enjoying Sabrina as escapism, to lend to any young person that his manifestation of story- start to question yourself? Have as high as he could, when he to go. He raises the particular (“everyone’s pan sexual!”), he may be listening or reading. telling, his personal journey, you ever had to declare your walked into a room. He discov- challenges that young people questions why the gay gods He highlighted the importance in the process of creating art. sexuality as a ‘straight’ per- ered that within the distance have at the current time, that have to always be ‘chiselled’. of being self- aware in order to This cathartic process has led son?”. This line of questioning he felt from people, there lay a is, due to Covid; young people The prevailing emphasis on build some emotional resil- him to this point in time and revealed that no, most people space in which he was able to are pushed further online and body-shape as being sculpted ience. He found researching he is currently preparing for had not even thought about this. discover who he was, a certain increasingly distanced from and muscular is problematic and queer history was central to his degree show exhibition in This example resonated with freedom to unpick the knots of friends and potential supports. was for Maitiú who discussed creating an understanding of Crawford College of Art. His Maitiú, and the feelings of acute confusion and self- stigma. When the search for answers the ‘queer body’. As many his own position in the world work “explores the position of sensitivity that he felt at times in Maitiú now discusses how or representation is conducted young people will relate, Maitiú and mentions that this may be the queer body in rural Ireland company. his experiences have made him online, it can be easy to be was not part of a sporting group helpful. He suggests that young through acts of performative Maitiú navigated this path acutely aware of injustice. He lured into what Maitiú calls and struggled with body image and questioning people need to labour, to realise a new separate with enhanced awareness about has made it his mandate to act “a fake sense of security and a as not fitting into the expected care for themselves, not throw space created through print-me- his position in the world. His on injustices brought upon other commercial representation of norm, although he does say that themselves into situations dia and installation”. The show reaction to his experiences people in groups that may not the queer body”. He strongly it must also be difficult being that may cause them harm or will be an online showcase throughout his teens was to be- be considered ‘mainstream’. We suggests that the agenda of big inside that traditional norm with distress. You can be vulnerable titled ‘Subject to Change’. Date come a self-described ‘art weir- move to consider ways in which TV is to make money and that expectations to fit into a body when you take the first steps TBC. Introducing, Maitiú Mac do’, his positive step towards young and questioning young some representations of queer stereotype. into saying out loud what may Cárthaigh. forming an identity that was people may face challenges can be poisonous and very dam- As our interview drew to a have been untold before.

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How many different lotions are there in the Dr. Hauschka Balancing Day Lotion 50ml, new Dr. Hauschka Day Lotion range? 1, 2 or 3? €29.95 (special introductory offer price until 31st May 2021, price after promotion €32.95) For more information on the full Dr. Hauschka Ideal for oily and combination skin, the new skincare range, or details of your nearest stockist lotion balances combination skin prone to an oily log onto www.drh.ie 34 April 30 – June 3, 2021 people Health & Lifestyle low number of patients included viral infection. Novel inter- in this study to date does not ventions, including dietary and Long COVID linked with Immune Response allow for researchers to perform microbiome supports, will need subgroup analysis, but the find- to be developed to help assist ings may be of clinical value if immune system recovery. Signature in early research finding replicated in future studies. Dr. Sadlier says that “Given While the study must be the scale of the pandemic and PC Microbiome Ireland, COVID symptoms. Research the reasons why some people Consultant at Cork University replicated before any firm that up to 10% are experiencing a SFI Research Centre into the long-term persistent develop these long-term symp- Hospital (CUH), to follow 24 conclusions can be made, this long COVID type symptoms in UCC has complet- effects of COVID-19 in some toms are not clear. One potential patients who attended post- data suggests that there are following primary COVID-19 Aed the first study to show that patients is important to under- reason is that the immune system COVID infection clinics who specific disturbances in immune infection the medical resource patients with Long COVID stand how Long COVID affects may remain in a semi-activated had been in-patients during the signalling networks that may required to manage these have significant and demon- daily functioning and the quality state for a long time following first wave of the pandemic from contribute to symptoms expe- patients in the future is likely strable disturbances in immune of life of these patients, and to infection. In order to test this March to May 2020. Clinical rienced long after clearance of to be significant. Translational signalling networks, up to nine better treat and manage these hypothesis, we examined many severity ranged from mild to SARS-CoV-2 infection. The research such as this will be months following hospital dis- patients. of the chemical messenger mole- critical during hospitalisation current clinical and public health critical in understanding the charge. Prof. Liam O’Mahony, a Prof. Liam O’Mahony says cules that are used by cells of the and the most common symptoms priorities are designed to limit mechanism underlying these principal Investigator in the SFI that through the results of this immune system to communicate at follow-up clinics were fatigue severe acute and fatal episodes ongoing symptoms from both Research Centre APC Microbi- SFI funded study “It has become with each other. We found that a and/or difficult or laboured of the disease, and to quickly a diagnostic and therapeutic ome Ireland, Dept of Medicine apparent that there can be subset of these molecules were breathing. The data suggests that roll out vaccines to the general perspective so we can optimally and School of Microbiology, significant detrimental long-term elevated in some patients, up to there are long-term immuno- population. However we should manage these patients in the is leading a team whose early effects following SARS-CoV-2 nine months following hospital logical consequences following also now determine how best to future.” research findings suggest that infection that impact daily func- discharge.” SARS-CoV-2 infection, at least refocus some of the clinical care an over-active immune response tioning and quality of life, even Prof. O’Mahony’s researchers in those that had acute symp- priorities to caring and helping may be one reason why some months after the initial infection collaborated with Dr Corinna toms severe enough to require those who are healing from this patients develop long-term post- has been cleared. However, Sadlier, Infectious Disease hospitalisation. The relatively High blood sugar is a common and serious health issue the different stages leading to sulin and contributes to a vicious though not necessarily in the ety and other issues can follow. and notice changes to your en- diabetes here is a list of common cycle of more insulin resistance. fasting blood glucose levels. Additionally high blood ergy, you are craving sugar and symptoms related to blood sugar At this stage, as the body can There will also be changes to the glucose levels cause inflam- carbohydrates, you have started levels that are too high: Fatigue no longer store excess glucose lipid panel, namely a decrease mation in the body, which can to put on weight and find it hard after meals; general fatigue; con- in the liver or skeletal muscle, it in HDL (good cholesterol) and lead to gastrointestinal problems to exercise because it causes stant hunger; cravings for sweets will convert it into triglycerides, an increase in triglycerides (bad and also promote the adrenal pain, you will have a complex – not relieved by eating them; which will be stored as body fat. cholesterol). You may also find glands to release cortisol and web of symptoms and health must have something sweet after Early on in this stage your your blood pressure starts to rise other hormones that effect the issues and the usual dietary and a meal; waist girth is equal to fasting blood tests for glucose and an increase in waist size, as kidney which can be responsible exercise advice may not work or larger that hip girth; frequent will still appear normal but you you put on weight. for electrolyte imbalances and for you. urination; increased appetite and will start to notice symptoms, As this pattern of dysfunction higher blood pressure. Not only what you eat will thirst; difficulty losing weight; perhaps the most important of develops, further changes to All of these effects have an matter, but how much and migrating aches and pains. which is if you feel tired or your your physiology start. High lev- amplifying effect on the level when will be important, having Eoin Roe energy levels drop after you eat. els of glucose start to modulate of glucose, insulin and other gaps between meals (fasting) Chiropractic Insulin Resistance The reason you feel tired is that your brains ability to respond hormones in the blood causing not snacking and cutting out In normal physiology, as blood your body is converting excess to leptin, which controls your multiple vicious cycles making it sweetened and carbonated drinks glucose levels rise, the pancreas glucose into triglycerides and appetite, with higher levels of harder and harder to reverse. even those without sugar will be releases insulin to push the glu- this takes a lot of energy. leptin and resistance in the hypo- The good news is that you can important. ast month we looked at cose into cells so that the cells Don’t wait for blood tests to thalamus your appetite goes up do something about this problem Seeking guidance from normal blood glucose can use the glucose as energy. start indicating that your blood meaning you never feel full. by changing your diet and someone who understands the balance and how your This works by insulin binding to sugar is too high; now is the Higher levels of insulin in the lifestyle. If you are in the very complex web of issues caused Lbody manages this. This month receptors on the cell surface and time to take action. The further blood, which is trying to get the early stages and are just starting by high blood sugar will be able we are examining what happens then glucose is transported into you go on down this road to glucose into your cells, start to to notice that you have tiredness to help you with a more targeted when blood glucose levels get the cell. If the levels of glucose metabolic syndrome the more shift hormone balance in men after meals, changes to your diet approach to getting your blood too high. Ultimately this leads and therefore insulin are too complex and difficult to resolve and women. For men it causes and adding some daily exercise sugar and health back under to Type 2 diabetes, which is high or remain high for long, your issues will become. an increase in oestrogen but for like walking into your routine, control. induced by diet and lifestyle then eventually these receptors women an increase of testoster- may be enough to reverse your If you would like help to choices and is the end stage of become resistant to the effect of Metabolic Syndrome one. This can cause problems symptoms. manage your blood sugar or any an increasing level of dysfunc- insulin, meaning the cells cannot Further down this path is meta- with fertility for women and If on the other hand you have chronic health problems please tion that can take 15 to 20 years take up the glucose in the blood. bolic syndrome. You will start to men. Emotional problems, anxi- been having issues for a while contact me on 087 9582362. to develop. This causes a further surge in in- find changes in blood chemistry, Before we go on to discuss

Relief from Chronic Pain, Restoration of Nerve Function, Muscle Strength & Joint Mobility

Clinic in Skibbereen Tel 087 958 2362 www.eoinroechiropractic.com April 30 – June 3, 2021 35 people Health & Lifestyle Great new products in the world of beauty

INSIDE OUT BEAUTY Sherna Malone

Skincare and beauty expert Sherna Malone shares her knowledge and expertise of all things beauty – from skin care do’s and don’ts to the latest your skin and your step, €68 alongside a board of plastic is the perfect addition to your an inflammatory environment health and takes care of your products out there. available from Clarins stockists surgeons and dermatologists, it skincare routine to clear black- that promotes blemish-causing skin in one single step. Unlike nationwide and online clarins.ie. promises to turn back the clock heads, reduce pore congestion bacteria, which may ultimately traditional hand cleansers, on your skin. Combining the and refine enlarged pores, all lead to blemishes. The result Bioderma have added two nour- ith restrictions LUNA by Lisa Jordan Air- power of an anti-ageing serum whilst calming inflammation of six years of research and ishing ingredients that take care lifting, it’s time to brush 3 In 1 Primer, High- with the soothing care of a and hydrating the skin. A trial development, the new Sily- of the skin. Shea oil penetrates dust off your make- lighter & Tint cream, the formula contains two panel of 92 women who used marin CF antioxidant oil-free deeply to replenish, while squal- Wup brushes and celebrate the This is a three-in-one primer, types of retinol to renew your Balance Me BHA Exfoliating vitamin C serum, is specifically ane reinforces the skin’s natural best new skincare, makeup and highlighter, and tint. Airbrush skin and reduce the appearance Concentrate for over 30 days formulated for those who are protective barrier. Easy to use, more… diffuses the skin and acts as a of fine lines and wrinkles, as showed amazing results – 85 acne-prone or oily and provides shake it and spray it on to elim- beautiful soft-focus highlighter well as niacinamide to support per cent noticed their skin was excellent environmental protec- inate 99.9% of bacteria and en- CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic while evening out skin tone, skin barrier function. According smoother after seven days, 75 tion against UVA and UVB and veloped viruses. Your skin will Acid Serum fine lines, and pores for that to the brand, within an hour per cent noticed a reduction in pollution. Combining vitamin feel immediately softer and will Meet the newest addition to the ‘your skin but better’ finish. it will have reached at least breakouts after 30 days and 78 C, ferulic acid and salicylic stay feeling soft no matter how CeraVe family – Hydrating Hy- Wear on its own, over or under 15 layers deep into your skin, per cent noticed a reduction Acid along with silymarin (a often you use it! Convinced of aluronic Acid Serum. Designed make-up for a glowing, dewier €69 available online from CH in blackheads after 30 days, potent antioxidant, derived the importance of this invention to deliver visible results and you. It’s your guaranteed good Tralee, Brown Thomas and €32.50 available exclusively from the milk thistle plant, that and faced with the situation effectively address lost hydra- skin day! Arnotts. online from MyBeautyEdit. helps inhibit sebum oxidation created by the COVID pandem- tion as a result of a damaged Available in five shades: com and in selected pharmacies in the skin) this high potency ic, Bioderma are committed to skin barrier, this next generation Light, Light Nude, Beige, Tan Lancôme Teint Idole Ultra nationwide. formula shields the skin from donating 100% of profits made hybrid serum contains mois- and Deep Tan, €22 available in Wear Blush Stick daily damage whilst tackling by the sales of Biphase Lipo ture-boosting hyaluronic acid, selected pharmacies nationwide Inspired by the brand’s Thalgo Fraicheur Hydrating breakouts and improving the Alcoolique to foundations, CeraVe’s signature 3 ceramides, and online. much-loved foundation stick, Body Mist appearance of fine lines and associations and NGOs working Vitamin B5 and glycerin. The Lancôme has now introduced If we can’t plan our next trip to wrinkles, skin texture and skin to prevent epidemics, for the gel-cream texture is fast-ab- John Frieda Violet Crush the Lanôme Teint Idole Ultra the French Riviera just yet, let’s tone, €165 from SkinCeuticals duration of the pandemic, sorbing leaving no residue on Intensive Purple Shampoo Wear Blush Stick. In a single pretend we are there now with clinics/stockists nationwide and €8.80 available from pharma- the skin and CeraVe’s MVE Calling all blondes; knock out swipe, create a sun-kissed blush the new revitalising and hydrat- online. cies nationwide and online from technology, a unique delivery those stubborn, brassy tones anytime, anywhere with this ing Fraicheur Hydrating Body www.bioderma.ie. system, releases the active in your hair with the new universal portable, cream blush Mist from Thalgo. Infused Bioderma Biphase Lipo For details of my facial treat- ingredients throughout the John Frieda Intensive Purple stick. Its creamy lightweight with citrus fruits, this gentle Alcoolique ments and skincare consulta- course of the day, for 24-hour Shampoo. With crushed violet formula is concentrated in and refreshing toning treatment Biphase Lipo Alcoholic is the tions visit www.shernamalone. hydration, €18 available in and blue pigments, in just one pigments to maximize colour helps to keep the skin mois- first double-action barrier hand ie. Follow me on Instagram and selected pharmacies nationwide, use, the rich intensive formula impact and glides on smoothly turised, calm, and revitalised. care that both protects your Facebook @shernamalone.ie and online. reduces both yellow and orange and effortlessly. 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A mental factors like UV and experience, thanks to its creamy Retinol Serum-in-Cream fast-absorbing leave-on chem- pollution generate free radicals texture and fresh, energising Hero skin and make-up brand ical exfoliant rich in salicylic that damage, or oxidize, skin’s scent. A treatment day cream IT Cosmetics has launched its acid, tiger grass, hyaluronic oils. Growing research shows that will put the spring back in first retinol cream. Developed acid, caffeine and squalane, it this oxidative stress creates 4 Market Square, Dunmanway (023) 884 5366 EQ 36 April 30 – June 3, 2021 people Health & Lifestyle It’s open season…almost because social media video calls biscuit/grey/cream because these footwear should add a little biker look. This might not be nights that you want to get hot just don’t cut it anymore. We are colours go wonderfully with something without causing too for everyone, but I always love on the dance floor. This season’s almost there, just a breath away, everything. much of a distraction. Beware a new look and this is very midi slip dress with a high slit so hang on in there for just a Fashion is courting a very that this style of sandal will funky. Mix a timeless blazer is to be worn as many ways as little longer. ‘loose and roomy’ look and the dwarf someone who would with a basic white T-shirt and possible, with a little cardi or I am bubbling with excite- clothes are not at all restricting like to be taller rather than add then add your cut-off denim cropped lightweight sweater ment to get inside the doors of or fitted. They are mirroring our height, as they pull the eyes shorts or biker shorts – just add over it and flip flops, with an a clothes shop and just relish newly found added freedom down to the feet! some strappy, wear-everywhere oversized blazer, or simply and being surrounded by fabrics that to allow plenty of movement Silk scarves are very much sandals. beautifully on its own. It’s en- will adorn all of us. Yes, we will but in a classy way. I’m not so ever-present and it’s completely Most of us have been around tirely up to you, so if you invest be catapulted into summer; our sure about the block or chunky up to you where you wear them long enough to know that our you will most definitely get your bodies might not be quite ready, sole sandals but that’s just my – on your head, in your hair or summer weather can be quite money out of this little number. IMAGE but time is moving on, and soon opinion. I have always felt that around your neck…the young fickle, so you need to have The last year and a half has we will be soaking up lots of ones can even wear them as some summer looks ready for taught each of us some different Louise O’Dwyer Vitamin D to keep us smiling boob-tubes. The ‘head-to-toe cover-up on chilly days. Little lessons but the most import- Image Consultant and healthy. So many have in neutrals’ look is my abso- cropped cardi’s are back, some ant thing that has been to the texted me to say that they have lute favourite; it’s classy yet with buttons, some with a draw- forefront is our need for human had to cast aside most of their under-stated and effortlessly string tie but both looking just as connection. This summer, I will was on a beautiful walk summer clothes because they comfortable. Mix cream with sweet and pretty. Denim jackets chase you with a big stick if you yesterday, rambling around no longer fit. DON’T SWEAT white and biscuit or very pale will always be a godsend so say ‘no’ to an invite anywhere the hills surrounding THE SMALL STUFF and this grey, the result is a ‘wow’ every make sure that your one still fits or to anything. Get out, go, do IRosscarbery and, despite the is small stuff… time; and this year everything and if not, invest in a new one. whatever it is, be tired, have sore over-powering smell of slurry at There are plenty of businesses is loose and airy, which adds a Lightweight long trousers are feet, leave your make up on and times; I was lost in the beauty of out there that will gladly help certain extravagance! Whether perfect on rainy days when you stain the pillowcase (the sign of my surroundings. Laugh all you you to replenish your clothes you tan easily, like to embrace don’t want to expose your legs. an absolutely brilliant night) but want but when I reached the top stocks, so as soon as the doors the pale look, or embrace fake Midi skirts and little tank tops most of all LIVE. Live for the of one hill, standing right next to open, ‘run’ inside and find some tan, and if you are blonde, dark, are universally sweet and chic. people that we lost. Laugh and the electric fencer was a group new bits. If you are on a tight red or grey, these colours will Depending on how much you smile when you see all the older of cows, and it dawned on me budget, high street stores will look gorgeous on you. And if mix’n match and accessorize, teenagers having fun – they have that we have all been like those have all the little bits and pieces you want a splash of colour, add this look can be effortlessly a lot of lost time to make up cows for the last year and a bit that will fill up the gaps in your some huge bold beads. worn morning, noon and night. for…maybe sit down and have a desperate to get past the electric wardrobe but always remember Mix prints, stripes and spots Add a pair of espadrilles and an chat with them, it will keep you fence or our restricted limits. that quality lasts and I would and the more colour the better over-sized tote bag and you are young! Have the courage to do They all just stood there, looking rather have quality any day over in a flowing dress. Seek out good to go. something this summer that you at the tantalising juicy grass just piles of clothes. Be clever; jeans something that is tiered and When you don’t feel like a never did before, go on a drive beyond their reach and I totally and loose or wide-cut trousers bright this year and make the neutral day GO BOLD. Bright somewhere to see the sun set- and completely empathised can look different every time most of the fact the look is red is big this year, I adore it ting, stay up all night so that you with those beautiful creatures. that you wear them, so pick up ‘loose’. These dresses are great and yes, everyone has a shade can see the sun rise. Here’s to all We have all been looking and lots of block colour tops and in- for anytime, day and evening, of red, so take the time to find of us being absolutely exhausted wishing and hoping and praying vest in a lightweight over-sized especially for all of those barbe- your perfect shade, even if it is at the end of a summer of love, that we can get to the juicy grass suit jacket, without a pattern and ques that we will be having and just a bold red silk scarf to wear connection, hangovers, painted too – whatever that might be – a in a colour that is not too loud. going to. They are also the ideal in your hair or as a belt around toes, lots of dresses and great trip to Penneys, to our favourite This will allow you to wear it a cover up after a swim! your waist. Slip dresses are underwear…Just remember the beach, to look into the eyes or lot and get compliments every The biggest ‘wow’ look on hovering around too’ they are bit about the stick! hold the hand of a loved one time. I recommend a taupe/ the catwalk was the half pro-half for those really hot days or those

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Call 01 878 8060 or book online naturopathy.ie natural medicine. to complete it while working consultancy services in nutrition, April 30 – June 3, 2021 37 people Health & Lifestyle Getting strong for the summer strengths for different purposes. legs and core engaged. Lower This exercise needs a pull-up To build up strength or to weights to straight arms for a full bar or a solid tree branch you preserve it, you need consistency movement. Use anything from can hang from. It’s the king of more than anything else. It’s like water-filled bottles to dumbbells back exercises, but it takes solid with everything in life: If you for this exercise. Do three to work to build up the strength want to be good at something, five sets with 10-12 repetitions and technique. If you are new you need to do it on a regular depending on your level. to this and find it’s impossible basis, be consistent. And to get Floor exercises: Supermans to pull yourself up, regardless better, you’ll need to challenge and back/leg raises. Put a mat how your grip is on the bar, I yourself once the routine starts on the floor; lie tummy-side suggest just hanging to begin to feel easy. down, arms over your head, legs with. Get used to carrying your DIY FITNESS A good summer look is a straight. For Supermans, raise own weight by holding on to the strong silhouette. You’ll need upper body and legs simultane- bar for any amount of time you Tania Presutti a strong back and a strong ously. Clear both upper body and can. Maybe it’s five seconds. back will also give you a good thighs as much as you can from Then hang for five seconds twice posture, which will give you a the floor. Let yourself down gen- the first week or two of training. Danish freelance journalist healthy looking attitude to life tly and controlled to complete After it becomes easy or you are and fitness professional Tania and a strong silhouette. the movement. getting used to it, you can either Presutti, who now resides in Here are a few of my favou- If the Superman is too diffi- add extra seconds or more reps. you through life, into your senior Clonakilty, delivers a series of rites for back training strength cult, you can divide the exercise Once hanging becomes natural, years, so you can remain agile to this as we walk into summer. It’s efficient DIY fitness exercises exercises you can do at home into two parts: Upper body you can start working on the do what you want. the best time of the year for stay- you can do at home. or outside in your garden or in lifts and leg lifts. Do the same pull movement. The underhand Covid-19 evidence appears to ing active, eating well and being a park. movement, but for only one part grip is the easiest. It primarily support regular physical activity outside. Go for it and make it To get visible results, I will of your body at a time. Three to uses biceps and upper back in that can prevent you getting bad- your summer. his month I’m taking suggest a minimum three five sets with 15-20 repetitions. the pull. Grab the bar with your ly sick, which is another good Comments and questions you back to where it all sessions a week. If you keep the Standing: Overhead Squat. palms facing you. Bend your argument for prioritising health. are always welcome via mail began: With exercises breaks between sets short, you Feet shoulder width or a bit arms by the elbow, as you pull There is beauty in strength [email protected] Tyou can do at home to build and should be able to start and finish more apart, stand up straight, yourself up, chin over the bar, and it’s ancient wisdom to take of via Instagram preserve your strength. Summer within 15 minutes. hold arms above your head. to perform a proper chin up. care of your body; remember @trainwithadane. is at the door and all of us long- Standing: Bend over Rows Keep them up, as you squat Lower yourself in a controlled ing for a long, warm, hopefully are wonderful because they down; engaging your core movement to finish the exercise. confinement-free season – you target all the big muscle groups; to keep the back as straight Once you have learned the pull, HOME MOBILITY SOLUTIONS might find yourself wanting to besides the primary upper body, as possible. Squat down to you can start thinking in reps STAIRLIFTS shape up, while still being in the they also work legs, core and tri- horizontal and stand back up, and sets. comfort of your home. ceps. Stand on the floor with feet with arms above your head to I hope this has inspired you HOME CONVERSIONS To be strong is not just to look shoulder width or a little further end the movement. Use weight, to train or to keep training. NATIONWIDE SERVICE muscular or fit; to me it has more apart. Slightly bend your knees such as a water-filled bottle or a Going about your life, working, to do with trusting your body to and pivot a little from the hips, dumbbell, kettlebell or weight studying, cooking, writing, read- GRANTS UP TO €30K have the strength to do all the so your upper body is leaning plate if you can carry it (if you’re ing – everything we do, shapes FIND OUT IF YOU stuff you like to do, from having slightly over. Keep your back just starting out, use something us. Don’t forget to shape your QUALIFY FOR A GRANT finger strength to open up jars, straight and core engaged. Hold light, that won’t hurt or ruin if body too. You need strength to strong arms to kneed bread, core the weights in your hands, arms you drop it). Again three to five lift your children, to swim, bike 021 – 4708652 and shoulder strength to go surf- straight down. Lift the weights sets, 10 -12 repetitions. and run, to play ball, climb and ing. In short, it’s about different up to the chest, while keeping Hanging: Pull-ups/Chin-ups. dance, and you need it to carry www.kchstairlifts.ie people Arts & Entertainment audiences the chance to experi- the essence of what makes it The shake by Laura World premiere of a ence new theatre, literary events, such a special festival. CMF Murphy, part of the music and more from home. 2021 will once again premiere CMF 2021 lineup. The festival team are also keen exciting new work, continue to major new adaptation by to share live, participatory arts support and showcase artists experiences this June, delivered at all stages of their careers, Marina Carr broadcast safely, always within Govern- invite audiences to experience ment guidelines. art in site specific and unusual Tickets for the online events locations, continue to work with as part of the Cork are on sale now from corkmid- partners across the arts and arts summer.com. Tickets for the organisations in Cork and put Midsummer Festival new era and with the loss that it the nature of art, unity and the remainder of the programme active participation at the very brings. problem of perception. will go on sale on Monday, heart of the art experience. atch Theatre Company Children play, Mr Carmichael With an all-star cast including To The Lighthouse is present- May 24, subject to Government The programme also includes and The Everyman, in reclines with handkerchief over Maura Bird, Colin Campbell, ed internationally in partnership guidelines. work-in-development, sowing association with Pavil- his face, Lily paints her picture Declan Conlon, Derbhle Crotty, with the Irish Arts Center, NY Despite the challenges of the the seeds for some performanc- Hion Theatre and Cork Midsum- and six-year-old James wants Aoife Duffin, Nick Dunning, and Theatre by the Lake, UK. ongoing pandemic, Cork Mid- es, which will take place next mer Festival, present Virginia to sail to the Lighthouse. Life is Olwen Fouéré and Kyle Hixon, Broadcasts Friday, June 25 at summer Festival 2021 retains year. Woolf’s ‘To The Lighthouse’. sweet. ‘To The Lighthouse’ receives its 7:30pm and available until mid- This masterpiece of modernism But what appears tranquil on world premiere, as part of Cork night June 27. Tickets €25/€30 is brought vividly to dramatic the surface, masks deep currents Midsummer Festival 2021. for households with multiple life by Ireland’s foremost play- of longing and frustration Woolf’s text is written in a viewers. The Everyman Box KINSALE COLLEGE DRAMA COURSE wright Marina Carr in a world which the characters struggle to form where thoughts and emo- Office: Tel: 021 450 1673 Full time Theatre Training. premiere from award-winning contain. tions are foregrounded. Marina everymancork.com. Pavilion director Annabelle Comyn. With the promise of a trip to Carr’s adaptation captures the Theatre Box Office: Tel. 01 231 Filmed on The Everyman stage the Lighthouse cancelled ten- constant flux of the characters’ 2929. paviliontheatre.ie. this digital capture of the stage sions in the home, and beyond, inner thoughts, and re-imagines Last year saw Cork Midsum- Enrolling now production will be broadcast as rupture violently and fling these them in a theatrical landscape. mer Festival bring most of its for September 2021 part of the Cork Midsummer lives into turmoil and change. It recalls childhood emotions programme online and the 2021 Festival on June 25, 2021. The world is in transition and and highlights emptiness and programme retains an important The play opens on the Ram- death becomes a footnote to a yearning in adult relationships. digital element, so everyone can www.kinsalecollege.ie say family and carefree days seismic global change, those Among the play’s many themes be part of it no matter where www.woodenotheatrecourse.com spent with friends by the sea. who remain try to cope in a are those of loss, subjectivity, they are. CMF Online gives 38 April 30 – June 3, 2021 May Sun Signs May is a busy month and it this sign until early July. Venus Mercury the fast-paced planet of or security are in any way com- on May 26, which is part of an may even be a merry month for also spends the month in Gemini communication and connections promised. 18-month Sagittarius Gemini some. Bealtaine marks midway after May 9. slips into Gemini. This dual sign The big feel-good story this series of eclipses. The focus or between the equinox and the Saturn starts a retrograde is symbolised by the ‘twins’ and month is Jupiter moving in to effect is often far-reaching and solstice, indicating we are well phase from May 23 and we have they seek union and concord. Pisces for the first time since unfolds over many months rath- on the way to midsummer. the first eclipse of the year, a There is the ability to see both its last visit from January 2010 er than on the day of the event. The true astronomical date of total Lunar event on May 26. sides and have discussion or to January 2011. In the most This eclipse theme has the be- this cross-quarter day is the With all this to integrate, we debate to reach a harmonious metaphysical sign, Jupiter can liefs and ideals of Sagittarius the fifth of this year. Many of the are off to a flying start in the first position. When Venus joins really do its stuff and bring out seeker who looks for new ideas ASTROLOGY standing stone rows or circles week. The recent conjunctions the Gemini trend, the talking the best in us. Pisces is all about and fresh insights combined have markers for the sunrise or of Mercury, Sun and Venus to really begins. We may have a connection. But the focus is with the Gemini ability to hold Kate Arbon sunset on these significant Solar Uranus, the planet of change more open flow of information on the spiritual side of life. In in mind more than one opinion, dates. The theme of fertility, and freedom, carries this energy or plenty of revelations with Pisces, we get to know about fact or version of the truth. Kate Arbon is an astrologer, symbolic union and abundance forwards as an unsettled and alternative viewpoints and a natural flow and divine order The Lunar eclipse is a point of writer and spiritual teacher. is still celebrated in many places rebellious undercurrent when possibilities being presented. that interconnects our reality. Ju- release and has the potential Living in West Cork for with bonfires, maypole dancing Mercury connects with Pluto on The retrograde of Mercury at piter seeks the best and highest to bring a new perspective or over 20 years she gives and other pageants that involve May 2, then Jupiter on May 3. the end of the month means that expression and always aspires to version into our experience. We personal consultations locally community gatherings, feasting Venus following in its footsteps much of what happens agreed a positive or win-win scenario. can expect a shift in focus in and internationally using and much merrymaking of all does the same on the May 6 and to or arranged, this month will The few weeks from mid-May the following months as events traditional natal and Horary kinds. 8. This theme brings commu- need to be open to revision and into mid-June give us a taste unfold in this direction. astrology. There is a noticeable shift in nications right to the top of the review during June. or preview of what’s to come May has a New Moon at email: astro@katearbon the energy, as Jupiter makes a agenda. The New Moon on May 11 in 2022, but we have to wait 22 degrees Taurus on May 11 www.katearbon.com move into Pisces, its own sign, The month may start out with brings that Uranus spark with it for the full story until after late at 7.59pm and a Full Moon mid-month. Another planet a few surprises and unexpected and this may create tension and December because Jupiter turns Lunar Eclipse at six degrees coming ‘home’ is Mercury, as it tidbits of information being discord in the following weeks retrograde after only travelling a Sagittarius on May 26 at slips into Gemini on May 4 and, leaked or announced. The pace if the basic requirements for couple of degrees into Pisces. 12.13pm. due to the retrograde, it stays in of conversation picks up as physical and material comfort We have the Lunar eclipse

Aries: You may receive special attention from your Virgo: This is a time to concentrate on essentials and appreciative of your more imaginative qualities. You enjoy expression friends and people around you. Maybe it’s time to to focus on the essence of your situation. ‘Take care of from the heart and real life dramas. This is time to indulge in the inno- reassess the relationships you have with the people in business’ is the key to making the best of this months cent and child-like, simple pleasures of life. your local area. Women, younger people, and your home Moon phase. It’s good time for deep thinking and eval- environment may contribute somehow to improve your uating what has real value. A lack of superficiality finds Aquarius: This month the focus is on your home and financial standings giving you a sense that you have support and back you straight to the point. Choices and tough decisions may need to be private life, which could be very rewarding now. A up. This is a good time to respond to new ideas and find a footing on made. You can expect support and encouragement if you are candid desire desire for security may make you seek seclusion which you can build firm a foundation. You may be gathering your and honest. Perhaps your philosophical and spiritual beliefs need to be for a time. Reflecting on past memories can bring you resources, with the desire to act on vital ideas or impulses that you’ve rekindled. Now you are only interested in the truth of things and you to the end of a phase of questioning. You’ve created a experienced. Projects benefit from nurturing and growth. want this to be the only foundation for your future solid base to build on and sent down roots. With a new sense of where you stand you can enhance your position. Understanding whatever Taurus: Your mind and inspiration focus on questions Libra: This month is time for getting down to business, limits there are you’ll find it’s time to move forward with greater ease. of finance and material support. You could come up with clearing away and discarding non-essentials or even This could be a creative phase for you, in particular regarding ideas, new ideas relating to money, possessions, values, and po- memories of things past. Your situation benefits from concepts, and expressing or communicating yourself. You can put your tential investments. Friends and family unite to support some mental or physical housecleaning. Separate the experience and feelings into words and may be at your most witty and you. Use that security to turn away from the outer world, wheat from the chaff, concentrating only on the genuine- dramatic. focusing now on personal and inner changes. This is a good time to ly important things. You are in an unsentimental mood and this allows let go of anything that is worn out or unused and only bring what you you let go of outworn or flimsy goods, ideas or relationships. You can Pisces: Your ideas, words and ability to communicate need into your improved personal life. You may be more concerned create space in your life for exciting and elevating new experiences. works well for you this month and you find needed with appearances than usual and you’ll come across in a good light in Innovation, inspiration and even unconventional approaches to being support or backup from those around you. Your ideas any group or social gathering. New information is delivered, triggering productive or making money are all possible now. Your response to life and thoughts may be very deep and rich and memories your imagination. becomes more courageous as you allow this energy to flow once more. are especially vivid. You are exploring and searching for new territory on mental and physical levels. You are busy linking Gemini: Understanding and generosity from friends or Scorpio: This New Moon is a very social time for you things together, following up connections, making contacts and seeing family leaves you feeling more inclusive and ready to and you can receive all kinds of support from those where the limitations are. You may come full circle and once again de- dissolve outworn defences. Your efforts to be helpful and around you. You may drop internal concerns in favour of cide that you need to work things out on your own, but you’re clearer give freely of yourself are well rewarded. Put up with making personal connections. Partnership and co-op- about the supports you have for when you next reach out to them. minor inconveniences and irritations for the sake of what eration is a strong urge. All relationships are nourished is really important in your life. Creating a harmonious environment and very much in focus. This is a time for turning away from your becomes priority. Sacrifices made now will be more than repaid later. personal experiences by responding in a more spiritual and socially This months New Moon helps you appreciate humility and patience as minded manner. You can handle your own past, and you want to share, you reach for goals beyond the personal. You have an increased ability especially by directly relating to others either intimately or through to bring things to life and make dreams real. joint ventures. You are able to love and care for both yourself and others. You recognise the value in being part of something bigger than Cancer: Community concerns and altruism are your self. highlighted this New Moon. This is a good time for res- olutions and solutions. People around you unite to make Sagittarius: Any recent efforts to improve your health, long-term goals and ideals seem more possible. You may diet, and physical condition will show results. This is the feel inspired to work on long-term and mutually bene- time for sorting through the experiences of the last sever- ficial projects. Even on a solo level you want to put into practice your al months, separating the worthwhile from the worthless heartfelt desires and make your dreams a reality. Your business sense is and, in general, salvaging what you can. This is a time of enhanced, and you are able to really focus on what is important when discrimination and possible self-examination and it’s helpful to attend it comes to choices affecting your material welfare. Short term is no to nagging details, just to get them out of the way and regain your longer of interest you. Instead, things of lasting value and with future peace of mind. Expect relationships to take up more of your attention potential are most appealing. now. You may be urged to adopt a more open or impersonal attitude toward yourself or others. Self-acceptance and taking responsibility for Leo: There is a lot of support for you to make job-related your actions are equally important. and practical decisions. Your ambitions could receive en- couragement from friends, co-workers, and those around Capricorn: The trend for you this month is to be more you. This is a time when your practical vision may be at creative and expressive. Others may urge you on toward a high. You can see what needs to be done and how to a more self-confident and outgoing attitude. You have go about doing it. Ambitious goals and projects may benefit from the had the experience and lived through something im- increased clarity you possess. You become aware that a little self-sacri- portant over these last months. Having fun and physical fice and an understanding attitude on your part could have far-reaching expression is your remedy. Perhaps there is a dawning awareness of effects on your own life-path and general direction during this time who you are now and what you have, which is of real of value. Togeth- period. Energy invested now could really pay off later. er with a growing sense of self-discovery you may find yourself very April 30 – June 3, 2021 39 people Arts & Entertainment Songs of Salt and Crystal: Modernism and the art of Tom Climent Ireland’s cultural landscape. Soft independent of reference, more geometric constructions unfold internal and two-dimensional. across his canvases like divinely The connection with landscape coloured crystals unearthed by a and atmosphere, however, has matrix of time, memory and salt. not disappeared; rather it has Layers of oil, sand and – surpris- become even more refined. ingly – plaster, generate organic Works such as ‘Sidhe’ and ‘Atlas moments of opacity, texture and Peak’ from 2018-19 are a case translucency; the plaster holding in point. In these works we see earth and the oil refracting a mountainous horizon line coloured light. In this way one separating what could represent encounters both earth and prism landform and sky. Climent here – the chromatic cubism of Marc foregoes geometric construction, THE SHAPE Chagall grafted onto tidal-flat instead allowing his materials OF THINGS and estuary. to ‘dissolve’ into sensations of Climent’s crystalline yet sediment and salt. In this work James Waller earthed abstraction has its roots he has something in common in the glory years of early Euro- with fellow Cork artist Michael Eden (244 x 183cm) pean modernism; the years of the McSwiney, whose panoramic James Waller is an Australian ‘Fauves’ (Matisse, Derain et al), fluctuations of matter are ev- born artist and poet based in ‘Der Blaue Reiter’ (Kandinsky, er-dissolving and blooming, like West Cork. Through this col- fragment and I lead the spectator Klee et al), the years of Chagall, algae, lichen and lava flowing umn James explores the world by the rhythm, I lead him into Delaunay and Albers. Colour and flaking across his canvases. of art, introducing the reader to following the movement of the was the key and its liberation Works such as the monumen- fragment that he can see, so that major works of art and artists was paramount. These painters tal ‘Eden’ (2018-19), acquired he has a feeling of totality.” and reflecting on what makes sought to give colour the same this year by the Crawford Art (Matisse Cut-Outs, Taschen. P. them so engaging. status as that of sound in music Gallery, return us to the full 285) – pure colour as a value in itself, prismatic beauty of Climent’s The quest for an arrange- as a note in an abstract harmony. vision. Crystaline facets of high- ment of infinite resonance, for ast month I looked at the Whilst Climent’s work glows key colour breathe out and up, a syntax which ‘speaks the ink works of Laura Wade, with the spirit of modernist and yet even here they remain spirit true’ is at the source of all giving special attention colour-song it never yields fully crucially welded to earth and Lto the geometric overlays in composition. The work of Tom to the abstract plane. In all of his decay, various facets ‘dissolv- Climent is an authentic ripple in her work. This has led me to canvases there remains a sensa- ing’ like salt into mud and the ocean of this grand tradition, consider the work of another tion of landscape, of impossibly ochre. Climent strikes a delicate which renders all art historical Cork artist, Tom Climent, whose coloured crystal, dwelling, rock balance between a hard and soft distinctions meaningless. It is geometric constructions inform or mountain perched upon land edge, between acidic and neutral the work of constant revelation, and heighten sensations of against sky. Works from 2006-12 colour, between earth and prism. a creed of colour, which will – landscape. His work is the tip of reveal Climent’s gradual emer- I say “crucially welded to earth” for as long as humanity persists an iceberg of modernist thought: gence from glowing interiors, because it is this link which - always bloom. Eden’s recent a wellspring of great colourists, dwellings and landscapes, the gives Climent’s work its lon- acquisition by the Crawford is from Matisse to Klee to Mar- colour heightened in segments, gevity; earth reveals crystal and timely and a wonderful gift for tich-Severi, some of whom I’ll teasing abstraction yet always crystal refracts light, the colours the people of Ireland in these also touch upon here. yielding to reference and earth of which sing to the heart. troubled times. Tom Climent’s prismatic tone. The following words of Henri Sidhe (30 x 30cm) colour-symphonies occupy a rich Since 2013 Climent’s con- Matisse could apply equally and well-acknowledged space in structions have become more well to Climent: “I offer a Zurich Portrait Prize and Zurich Young Portrait Prize open for entries he National Gallery of will be commissioned to create will be chosen from a shortlist of on talented artists of all ages Ireland has launched a work for the national portrait 20 works. Winners will receive a has been a fantastic experience. the Zurich Portrait Prize collection, for which they will be bespoke art box and a cash prize. We’re looking forward to seeing Tand Zurich Young Portrait Prize awarded a further €5,000. Two Sean Rainbird, Director of the shortlists for both the Zurich competitions. For the Zurich additional awards of €1,500 will the National Gallery of Ireland, Portrait Prize and Zurich Young Portrait Prize, the annual compe- be given to highly commended said, “We were overwhelmed Portrait Prize later this year.” tition showcasing contemporary works. Judges for the Zurich with the tremendous response to The closing date for entries portraiture, the Gallery invites Portrait Prize are: artist Eamonn last year’s Zurich Portrait Prize to the Zurich Portrait Prize and submissions from across the Doyle; Róisín Kennedy, art critic and Zurich Young Portrait Prize. Zurich Young Portrait Prize island of Ireland, and from Irish and Lecturer/Assistant Professor Following a challenging year is June 23, 2021. Exhibitions artists living abroad. The Zurich in the School of Art History and for artists and children, we hope featuring shortlisted works in Young Portrait Prize is open to Cultural Policy, UCD; and Seán to learn more about how art has both competitions run at the young people aged 18 and under. Kissane, Curator at IMMA. inspired, provided an escape or National Gallery of Ireland The Zurich Portrait Prize The Zurich Young Portrait brought joy to people across the between November 13, 2021 and aims to encourage interest in Prize returns for its third year country in recent times.” April 3, 2022. The exhibition contemporary portraiture and to in 2021. The inclusive art com- Neil Freshwater, CEO of will continue to partner Crawford showcase the National Por- petition is open to children and Zurich, said, “Zurich is proud to Art Gallery, Cork where it will trait Collection at the National young people of all abilities aged have supported these important be displayed between April 23 Gallery of Ireland. The winner up to 18 from across the island competitions since 2018. Work- and July 17, 2022. Details of of the competition will receive of Ireland. Winners in four age ing with the National Gallery both competitions can be found ‘Portrait of a Boy, Morning’ by Aidan Crotty, Winner of the a cash prize of €15,000 and categories and an overall winner of Ireland to shine a spotlight at www.nationalgallery.ie. Zurich Portrait Prize 2020. 40 April 30 – June 3, 2021 people Arts & Entertainment Annual Ballydehob Jazz Festival 2021 presents outstanding music programme allydehob, has against has been running since 2007, cial and much loved guest singer all the odds this year, had to go online and, like all of Camilla Griehsel). are rolling out another Ireland, the streets went quiet. And to top it all off, a Head- Boutstanding festival programme “It’s been the strangest, toughest line Concert like the festival featuring some of Ireland’s finest year in anyone’s living memory have never staged before…A contemporary jazz artists. and we’re still not out of it yet, performance of Loch Trasna While they will not be taking but the show must go on. We (Roaring Water Suite) an orig- to the streets this May Bank had to ask ourselves what can inal piece of music commis- Holiday Weekend, or piling we do?” Joseph O’Leary, Bal- sioned by the BJF and written by into venues to watch live music, lydehob Jazz Festival Director. Paul Dunlea, Cork trombonist Ballydehob Village have been On May 1, 2 and 3, at 8pm and composer. A new suite in Pic: Jason Lee working hard to plan events so each night, Ballydehob “The four movements inspired by the they can celebrate the commu- Little Village with the Festive extraordinary efforts and cour- nity, the art and the music that Heart” will Jazz it up in a virtual age of local men and women of makes this the best small festival kind of way: Cork during the War of Indepen- the Village Windows throughout RT Breathnach will be displayed Stay posted to the website in the West! A series of concert perfor- dence. Performing with Paul will the weekend.Contact work- across the village over the week- and BJF social pages – the May Previous years have seen mances recorded right in the be four of Ireland’s leading im- [email protected] to end, accessible to all. Bank Holiday Weekend is just the festival grow in size and heart of the village in the newly provising jazz musicians – Chris pick up your pack - donation the beginning for this year. More stature. Ballydehob Jazz Festival revamped Community Hall Engel, Sax; Chris Guilfoyle, welcome. Ticket Information: All music events will be rolled out as and headliners have included bands will be streamed online via the Guitar; Dan Bodwell, Bass; and Continuing on this year’s concerts will available for ticket if public health restrictions will from New Orleans (Meschiya Ballydehob YouTube Channel. Matthew Jacobson, Drums. theme of Roaring Water Bay, as holders to view via the Bal- allow. Lake and The Little Big Horns) Performances from ReDiviDeR well as arts participation in the lydehob Jazz Festival You Tube The Ballydehob Jazz Festival (Stephanie Niles), Paris (Jack including Matthew Jacobson In the village community, a New Village Wall Channel, premiering from 8pm is made possible by the support and Jills Swing Band), USA who been called “one of the And it’s not all online! Bal- Mural has been commissioned each night (Friday Saturday, of Cork Co Co and Cork County (Lake Street Dive), and Berlin most dynamic forces in Irish lydehob Jazz Festival has by BJF and created by Cork Sunday, May 1-3). Tickets on Arts, Pure Cork, The Arts Coun- (The Good Night Circus). Wel- jazz, on and off the stage” by partnered with Working Artist Artist Anthony Ruby. It will be sale now at ballydehobjazzfes- cil of Ireland, local businesses coming thousands of visitors to The Irish Times. Cuar, an Irish Studios, the local art centre, to unveiled on a village wall over tival.org. and and vibrant community that join the infamous Ballydehob Chamber Music ensemble led by create family creativity packs the weekend. Price is a donation of your cannot be kept down. New Orleans Jazz Funeral Pa- Neil O’Lochlainn, The Cormac filled with all the materials to A Photograph Exhibition choice (suggested donation €15 rade, as well as hosting an inter- McCarthy Sextet, and festival make your own Jazz decorations showcasing previous years Jazz per night / €30 for weekend www.ballydehobjazz.org national swing dance program. favourites Niwel Tsumbu and (including a stained glass design) Festivals, captured by local (includes three nights, five Facebook/Instagram/Twitter Last year the festival, which Eamonn Cagney (with very spe- which will be used to decorate photographers Jason Lee and concerts). Award-winning Irish poet Molly Twomey to Cork-based podcasters reveal special guest at May Spoken Word how you can win an Oscar ne of the brightest young Sometimes grim, often with a start of the story, which has Cork-based podcast has nation on your poster. stars in the beautiful fir- hint of irony and/or humour, but many angles and underlying revealed the method “Some films even time mament of Irish poetry, unfailingly compassionate and themes. Molly will not just film production compa- releases to use potential OMolly Twomey is the special poetic. She uses vivid images to explore the myth itself but also Anies often use behind the scenes nominations in their marketing guest at the next DeBarra’s paint persons and scenes but a look at poems by several authors to increase their chances of materials. The Deer Hunter Spoken Word on May 19. lot is left to the imagination and that approach it in very different bagging an Academy Award. used that strategy to great effect, Originally from Lismore (Wa- there is always a ‘story behind ways. “Some poets use it to Ahead of last unday’s Oscar because audience reactions in terford), Molly has already has the story’. talk about a mother-daughter or ceremony, the hosts of the test screenings made the pro- been published in Poetry Ireland, even a father-daughter relation- Random Questions Podcast ducers wonder how to market Banshee, the Irish Times, the On May 19, from 8:30pm ship. Or, they capture it from a broke down the concept of what they felt was a thoroughly Stinging Fly and was featured onward, Molly will be read- humorous perspective… I want ‘Oscar Bait’ and the difficulties depressing movie. on RTÉ’s Arena. She also won ing from her own work at to open up people’s minds about the Academy has faced in recent “What was also interesting the Padraic Colum Poetry Prize the online DeBarra’s Spoken mythology. When I started out, years concerning diversity. was to read studies as to what 2019, as well as the national Word. She will also facilitate I found mythology really scary The weekly podcast, which movies the Academy really Waterford Poetry Prize 2020. a workshop around an ancient and thought I’d have to read began in early March, is hosted doesn’t like. We can all proba- Molley holds an MA in Creative myth, Persephone and Demeter. all these big and complicated by Robert O’Sullivan (Tower) bly think of movies that aren’t Writing from University College “A lot of my poems are based books. But in reality, it’s about and Jill Kingston (Clonakilty), exactly ‘prestige’ but I was still Cork, where she received the on mythology,” she said in a quite accessible stories… We two friends and former jour- taken aback to see that – espe- title of College Scholar and has recent zoom interview. “It is can make sense of the crazy nalists. cially in light of the Academy’s Normally two Coventry-based been given the Eavan Boland a really good way to create a world we live in through poetry Robert, an award-winning historic issues about diversity poets would visit Cork, and vice Mentorship Award. boundary between myself and and mythology.” radio producer and broadcast- – that a 2014 study showed versa, to do a short poetry tour Not bad for a 25-year-old! my autobiography. Go into a It should be said that the er, said that researching the that ‘black independent films’ in the other country. Of course, And yet, if appearances and intu- different world.” The Greek na- workshop, which includes an ‘mysteries’ behind the Academy ranked alongside phrases like everyone stayed at home in 2020 ition are anything to go by, Mol- ture goddess, Demeter, presides exercise, is open to all-comers made for an interesting few ‘zombie’ and ‘breast implant’ ly is down to earth and far from while visiting events online and over the harvest, agriculture, and and not just to people (already) ‘in spirit’. evenings: “As a movie watcher as the most Oscar-toxic topics big-headed. She has blogged the fertility of the earth. When writing poetry but also to those you kind-of presume there’s to use.” extensively about mental health Fortunately, a chapbook her daughter, Persephone, is ab- who prefer to write stories, (Southern Syllables, available some unwritten rules as to what The podcast, which releases and isn’t afraid to examine her ducted by Hades, the god of the non-fiction, or even songs. An gets nominated for an Oscar. every Wednesday, is available own experiences. What she in PDF) was produced to mark underworld (a move approved Open Mic will follow as per But looking into it, it shocked on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, writes has a searing honesty, in- the occasion; part of the ‘spoken by her father, Zeus), Demeter usual. me almost how regimented it and most other podcasting cluding the poetry she has so far worlds’ series published by Ó tries to locate and rescue her If you want to take part in is. If your movie is about a war, platforms. The podcast can be published. Molly was one of two Bhéal, the poetry powerhouse daughter. To express her anger, the session, please send your about a famous figure, or is a found on Instagram and Twitter Cork-based poets (alongside Jim in Cork that organises the ex- she goes on strike. The crops email address to debarrasspo- period piece, and you really by going to the username @ Crickard) selected in 2020 for change. In her 10 (prose) poems, wither in the fields, animals die, [email protected] or go to shop it around to Academy RandomQsPod, or searching the Twin Cities poetry exchange Molly shows herself to be a keen and a famine spreads across the the event on DeBarra’s Spoken members, you have a really ‘Random Questions Podcast’ on between Cork and Coventry that observer of women, men, par- earth… Word’s Facebook page. has occurred yearly since 2008. ents, the homeless, interactions: This, of course, is only the good chance of getting a nomi- your podcast platform of choice. April 30 – June 3, 2021 41 people Home & Garden Going wild in the garden ilies have done for generations. I have advised her to take things With Mia, it is harder, but the slowly. It is easy to fill gaps new garden has brought us with annual flowers, marigolds, closer, with constant photos, nasturtiums, cornflowers and so lists of suggestions, even phone on (all good for pollinators), this calls for advice while she is in gives time to live with the space the garden centre. Starting from and make good choices. I have scratch has enabled her to con- bought so many plants in the A COTTAGE sider everything she plants from past that have caught my eye, the biodiversity point of view without any idea of where I will GARDEN PROJECT so the hedging is a mixture with plant them. I am embarrassed to beech, hawthorn, hazel, and think how many never found a Jean Perry rosa rugosa in the blend. Other permanent home. Now I make suggestions for shrubs that are wish lists of plants so that if Jean Perry of Glebe Gardens great for wildlife are Berberis I happen to find myself in a will share the ongoing darwinii and Ribes sanguineum garden centre, I look for plants successes and failures of for early flowers, Ceanothus, on my list that are sure to find growing a small cottage garden A flowering cherry at Glebe. Hebes, Buddleia, Viburnums a waiting spot in my garden. It using no-dig and organic and many others. Now, before I has only taken about 40 years to principles to see just how hardest things for me during the hasn’t had much time or interest slopes, new hedging, vegetable buy a plant I check its wildlife learn that lesson. much food she can get out of pandemic has been not seeing in gardening until now. Like beds, a composting area and a credentials. There is a wealth of I am looking forward, like so such a plot. Join her on this one of my daughters for nearly many people, her interest in patio for an outdoor table and information in seed catalogues, many of you, to the time when journey… a year now. She and her family the garden increased during the chairs, the garden has become a gardening books and of course we can all safely meet again live in Glasgow, so near and yet Covid pandemic. The instinct new focus for all the family. It on the Internet. and swap seeds and cuttings and so far. Technology has allowed to provide the family with some has also given my daughter and Mia’s new garden is full of chats about the garden, hopeful- us to keep in contact but there fresh fruit and vegetables, and myself many hours of chat, ex- nooks and crannies and her first ly in the not-too-distant future. atching the garden are limits to Skype and Zoom; the need for them all to get changing ideas, talking of seeds instinct was to fill them up, but gradually coming there is no replacement for the outside as much as possible and plants, biodiversity, advice back to life over real thing. A couple of years ago brought the garden into a new on varieties and so much more. Wthe last few months has been she and her family moved to a perspective. Gardening on Starting a new garden is both very comforting in these still house with a large garden – the such a steep slope proved very exciting and daunting. While DEELISH GARDEN CENTRE uncertain times. The regular only drawback being that the challenging and this spring my other daughters are also on signs of new growth confirm We’re on the banks of the Ilen, 1 mile west of SKIBBEREEN garden is on a steep slope, with she and her husband called in the same journey, they happen that life goes on regardless of on the old Baltimore road. Fully signposted off the N71. the house sitting halfway down. a landscape gardener to try to to live close by and I can give pandemics and lockdowns. Open Mon to Sat 10am - 5pm She has a demanding academic make some sense of the space. them advice, plants, seeds and On a personal basis, one of the Sunday and Bank holidays: Closed job and with three children Now, with gently curved cuttings and so on, just as fam- Phone: (028 21374) Q E Outdoor living at Deelish Garden Centre

Create a unique

hammocks, outdoor living space.... swing chairs & much Visit us for high quality more! (yet affordable!) outdoor seating and dining furniture, parasols, fire pits, barbecues, unique ornaments and specimen plants.

ith so many people barbecues, outdoor ornaments, finding themselves as well as specimen plants,” spending more time shares Noah. been hard to keep in stock, with For the more adventurous, Wat home and in the garden, Noah’s parents, Bill and Rain, some pieces finding new homes there are also hammocks, swing Noah and Maya of Deelish former proprietors of Deelish even before being assembled,” chairs, rope ladders and wooden Garden Centre in Skibbereen Garden Centre, opened the Some of the more unusual Deelish also stocks quality says Noah. swings! have, since last summer, been outdoor living area on Saturday, items include: Massey Ferguson barbecues from €50-€500, bar- Deelish stocks rattan lounge “We have garden ornaments sourcing unusual and practical April 3. table tops and chairs, fire logs rel smoker barbecues, tripods and dining sets, nest chairs, to suit everyone, including Maoi items that enhance our outdoor “The reaction from our (sometimes called Swedish can- for cooking over camp-style hammocks and hammock seats, Heads from four inches to seven living areas. customers and visitors so far dles), outdoor candles, laser cut fires or fire bowls, grills for as well as a full range of wood- feet, a huge range of Buddhas, As the new covered sales has been amazing,” says Noah. steel fire bowls, chimenea fires outdoor cooking including fish, en chairs, including rocking monks, warriors, ganesh, fish, area is now complete at Deelish, “Most people prefer to see and and cookers, outdoor cooking as well as a range of different benches, companion sets, dining elephants, lotus bowls, to name these unique additions have feel the quality of our outdoor accessories (including waffle sized outdoor steel fire bowls sets and arbors. One of the most just a few!” been put on display all under living products for themselves irons, popcorn pans and cast (there are some unusual shapes popular benches at the moment one roof. “We have found a real compared to purchasing on the iron slow cooking pots), and and sizes). is made out of a recycled whis- need for quality affordable out- internet from a few images.” even a life size drift wood stag! “Our outdoor furniture has key barrel! door living furniture, fire pits, 42 April 30 – June 3, 2021 people Home & Garden A crash course in design styles s a designer, one of Boho’ style, or a cousin of the questions I always Boho so to speak. This style ask my clients is ‘Do has a lot of similarities, as far Ayou know what interior design as the collected nature, the style you are?’ For those of you colour combos and the curated still finding your feet around aesthetic. However, the pieces defining your own style, I’ve are less organic and more put together a reference list styled. Eclectic rooms could be INTERIORS that should help you out when filled with iconic pieces from This desk from you’re searching for design just about every style, and when woodesign.ie Maura Mackey inspiration for your home. done right, it all works well Before starting a project with together. epitomises the modern Maura Mackey is a Cork-based a client, I always first look at organic asthetic. interior and retail display the style, if there is one, in their designer. A professional with home. I then navigate through an eye for detail and interior likes and dislikes, running styling, she thrives on giving through different ‘design styles’ any home the ‘showhouse so to speak. This process in- feel’ when up for sale or rental volves pointing out key features from a home staging point of of each style, so we can identify view. On the other hand, if together the look they’re aiming you are looking to give your for in their home. Most people home a makeover or restyling, nowadays know what they like ‘Maura Mackey Design’ will but putting all those elements help you achieve the home of together and defining a particu- your dreams. P: 087-7699714. lar style is quite another matter [email protected] entirely and can benefit from outside advice. Styles are constantly chang- ing and evolving and many of us will go for combinations but here’s my crash course in design styles to hopefully get you inspired if you’re feeling out to sea. Soft pastels and light-toned woods in a Scandanavian style kitchen. Traditional This is one of the oldest and Modern most common styles and is On the opposite end of the rooted in heritage and tradition- spectrum from Boho and al shapes and forms. It’s a time- Eclectic, lies Modern. This less classic taking its cue from refers to a sleek and uncluttered the 18th and 19th centuries, style, which reflects a fuss-free incorporating classic art and an- approach to life. Designers keep tiques. Styles and pieces reflect décor minimal while emphasis- INTERIOR STYLING FOR YOUR HOME & BUSINESS historical design elements using ing industrial materials. Many Virtual Consultations on natural material and colours. people feel modern can be cold, Zoom, FaceTime or Skype stark, and sterile but in reality BOHO modern style is very much root- Single room to Bohemian style (BOHO) has ed in square shapes and forms. full home designs become very popular in the past Typically this style has a more five years, although its roots neutral colour palette with the Virtual Staging date back further than that. occasional pop of colour. Consultations Boho style is all about pulling Reflect a coastal location in your interior with blues, whites Online personal shopping together natural and organic Contemporary and bleached wood. Maura Mackey service available elements into a very layered and Fundamentally a contemporary collected look. The Boho style style of decorating is defined by use of found objects, which can warm and relaxed in its styling Design Virtual Colour incorporates a lot of caning, simplicity, subtle sophistication, instantly give a room some soul of natural materials. Consultations ALL THINGS INTERIOR rattan, bamboo and textiles with deliberate use of texture and and character. Mood boards with bright and saturated colours. It’s clean lines. It showcases spaces Modern Farmhouse store availability listings a very playful and exotic look. rather than things, as well as co- Coastal The style uses a lot of found and lour and shape. Contemporary This is all about the beachy salvaged objects pulled together m 087-7699714 k [email protected] Organic Modern interiors are sleek and fresh. atmosphere that you’ll find in in a modern and refined way. www.mauramackey.ie This is a very casual style – To achieve this look, neutrals, many homes around the coast Rather than being overly rustic neutral and inviting. It has a black and white and grey are in West Cork. It’s all about and farmhouse-esque, it is more clean aesthetic and colour pal- the key colours. You will see bringing the natural elements of refined. You’ll see blues, greens, ette, which is very modern but high ceilings, bare windows and the coast inside your home and and lots of white and black used is also about layering neutral geometric shapes in wall art, includes whitewashed woods, in this style. It is very inviting textiles and textures to create even bare walls – less is more blue tones and lots of white to and comfortable and has a slight interest rather than introducing in this style. Structural elements help all that coastal sunshine tinge of traditional in it without additional colour. You’ll find are often incorporated. bounce around the room! being too formal. Think rustic lots of light-toned woods and yet refined. relaxed textiles mixed with Industrial Scandinavian Whatever style you lean iconic lighting in black, brass, This leans towards more the This is a very simplistic and towards, it’s important to keep and chrome. ‘factory/machine look’, as modern approach style; a soft in mind the words of interior it uses a lot of metal, rustic colour palette of pastels mixed designer Albert Hadley “Be Eclectic wood and leathers, however with light- toned woods and faithful to your own taste, Honestly I think this could the softness comes through its lots of whites, creams and tans. because nothing you really like be called the ‘slightly refined neutral colour palette and the It’s very simple, clean, yet very is ever out of style”. April 30 – June 3, 2021 43 people Home & Garden ‘The Coffee Bee’ lands at Future Forests One of West Cork’s much-loved garden centres, Future Forests, will reopen in May after being closed to the pub- lic since Ireland entered Do you want Level 5 restrictions in December, and will CLEANER HEALTHIER soon welcome a new café ‘The Coffee Bee’ TAP WATER into the fold.

elebrating 35 years in business next year, Fu- ture Forests in Kealkil, CBantry has built up an envi- able reputation for the quality and competitive pricing of its FITS plants and, while the garden UNDER centre may have been closed to SINK footfall, business has been far will be serving up delicious nurture and grow the business. Cork’s coastal conditions, or 6-STAGE REVERSE OSMOSIS from quiet behind the scenes. takeaway vegetarian fare and They were recently awarded a perhaps you want to invest in FILTERS WILL REMOVE: This pandemic has nurtured baked goods over the summer €30,000 grant from Enterprise some native hedging to create flouride, arsenic, chloride, copper, aluminium, an appreciation in all of us for months. It’s never been difficult Ireland to improve the customer privacy between you and your lead, manganese, mercury, sulphate & more! the quality of life that exists out- to lose oneself at Future Forests experience on the Future Forest neighbour’s garden or have doors and garden centres such for a few hours but with a website. been searching for an unusual as Future Forests have been freshly roasted coffee in hand Future Forests sources quality tree with all-round seasonal m QED0 flat-out over the past year filling one might never emerge again! trees, shrubs, conifers, fruit, interest…and now you can get 086-3331411 online orders for gardens all The glass doors at the front of hedging, roses and perennials, your caffeine fix too. Make a k [email protected] over Ireland. the coffee shop open out fully, Irish where possible, and you’ll day out of it and head to Kealkil Maria Collard and Mattie so when restrictions allow, there also find so many unusual – if you can’t fit all the plants in Keane are the couple behind will be seating both indoors and specimens at the nursery. The your car, they’ll deliver! this successful plant business, outside on the café’s patio over- nursery supplies plants in which was set up by Maria’s looking the garden centre. “I containers all year round and father Mike Collard in 1987. think, like everything at Future has just come to the end of its While the garden centre was Forests, the coffee shop will busy bareroot season, which closed to the public, the couple evolve and expand its offering runs from November to March/ took this opportunity to realise over time,” says Maria. “We’re April. “Our diverse range and a long-held ambition and built delighted to be able to offer our low prices are what makes us a coffee shop onsite. Created customers this service while stand out,” says Maria “and out of two large converted they browse or wait for their our online mail order service containers and fitted with a orders to be filled.” allows us to reach customers all full commercial kitchen, ‘The In the eighties, when Mike over Ireland. Throughout the Coffee Bee’ sits snugly into the Collard first started Future pandemic we have also had our five-acre hillscape at Future Forest, plants were sold from own van on the road for three Forests and, once the sod roof the family’s homeplace up in days a week delivering plants starts sprouting, it will no doubt the hills behind the current all over Cork and Kerry. We look like it’s always been a part nursery. Mike’s business was in now have a team of between 25 of the scenery. local timber but over time the and 28 people working here.” ‘The Coffee Bee’ at Future sale of plants took over and the Whatever your planting Forests will be managed by unusual wooden buildings still needs, Future Forests is there mother and daughter team onsite are a nod to the sawmill to meet them: Looking for Bria Evans and Sora Barnett, days. Maria and Mattie took a special fern to fill a shady who share an appreciation for over the business when Mike spot, some summer bedding, seasonal and local produce and retired and have continued to a grass that will thrive in West We look forward to welcoming customers back to our garden centre.

New Café opening soon serving takeaway tea, coffee, cakes & vegetarian fare.

OPEN THURSDAY - SATURDAY, 10AM - 5.30PM SUNDAYS 12PM-5.30PM

Ireland’s natural nursery & mail order plant people Kealkil, Bantry • 027 66176 • www.futureforests.ie EQ 44 April 30 – June 3, 2021 people Home & Garden Getting your plants in the ground Mags Riordan of by alternating each row spacing plants is put in at nine inches or this in turn gives roots more 22cm from the last plant. We Bumblebee Farm con- room and access to nutrients. use a length of stick marked tinues to guide us all Putting in lines for each row with the spacing to help guide through the planning, is recommended, as it can be a us with the correct distances be- bit confusing and, if this method cause I find it hard to judge this planting and caring of a is new to you, it’s easy to get by eye alone. This saves time in bed for cut flowers. By lost in keeping the rows straight. the long run and using the string the time summer arrives I know this from experience! keeps the rows straight. Start with the first row of five If you’ve added manure and the bed should boast plants, coming in six inches or food at bed preparation time, an abundance of polli- 15cm from the edge and run then you can plant straight into nator-friendly flowers your first string the length of the the soil although we do add bed – a piece of bamboo cane some mycorrhizal fungi to the ready for cutting and either end of the bed stuck in planting holes to give the roots enjoying. This month the ground will do for this and a boast and help them absorb we’re planting. tie the string taut to this. Mark more water and nutrients, but your next row nine inches or they also help soil microbial t’s the month of May so 23cm and run the string again. build up; this leads to a healthy that means planting time. Your next three rows will have living soil, which in turn keeps You’ve nurtured your that nine inch spacing. plants healthier and bet- Ibabies and hardened them off With rows marked, your first ter-equipped to deal with stress and now we’re going to get three plants will go in alter- and adverse weather. them into the ground. The grid native rows and the last two We will be demonstrating this I use isn’t a traditional straight will be planted 4.5ins or 11cm planting method, how to make line like when planting veg. further down the bed. This your own compost tea, and Instead, you’re using a slightly gives the appearance of being putting in stakes and netting to more intensive method with off-centre and is where it can support the plants as they grow closer spacing and the rows are get confusing, hence the string on our next Instagram live. designed to utilise more ground as a guide. The second row of Bee Kind. Gardening in May plants against overnight frosts. watch on the weather bulletins crops of sweet, flavour-charged Lawns Covering with frost protec- on TV, radio and on mobile Bedding, Patio Plants and fruit. Choose ‘Tumbling Tom’ in Sow or turf new lawns tion fleece or even broadsheet weather apps. Seasonal Colour red or yellow fruit for hanging newspapers overnight, will give Bedding and patio plants give baskets or patio containers. ‘Fer- Plants for damp or wet areas protection to plants. A thermo- Jobs for the month great value with some of the bet- line’ is a good, heavy, yielding, While everything may not thrive statically-controlled fan heater is Prune spring-flowering shrubs ter varieties flowering for five to blight-resistant variety. in damp areas, there are many a great addition to a greenhouse. after flowering. six months. They can be planted As the weather warms up, delightful, colourful and inter- If you don’t have a waterproof Plant out dahlias, begonias, outside once all risk of frost is plant cucumbers, melons, auber- esting plants to create interest GARDENING plug in place it is worth getting cannas and other tender bulbs over. If planting up containers do gines and peppers. in such an area. Choose ferns, your local, registered electrician after they have been well check the drainage outlets. Dis- If you have space in the hostas, primula candelabras, John Hosford to install a double socket. The hardened-off at the end of May, card old, spent compost and use greenhouse, plant up hanging astilbes. The Weekend Garden fan heater, where it is thermo- adding a good organic fertiliser fresh compost when planting. baskets, window boxes and patio Centre statically controlled, will be a at the time of planting. Mark You can buy bedding or containers, allowing them to great addition to your green- your bulbs with a good robust patio plants in named or mixed settle in and become established house. It will give you peace of cane and a waterproof label. colours. Named colours are a before moving into their summer mind on cold nights and protect Make provision for staking tall better choice as you can colour flowering quarters. Check that e are all hoping to be precious, tender plants against Dahlias. co-ordinate your displays wheth- chains are in good order, replac- out of danger from fatal frosts. Two or three inch diameter er they are in beds, borders or ing if not in good condition. frost towards the end Protect frost-vulnerable fruit five foot (150cm) posts are a containers. Ventilate the greenhouse well Wof this month, which is always trees and bushes that are blos- good choice with sheep netting Bedding or patio dahlias are a on warm, sunny days. very busy in the garden. soming with sacking, hessian pulled taut over four posts. good choice for tubs, barrels and Continue to protect tender or old blankets overnight when This can be adjusted upwards large patio containers. Begonias Spring Bulbs bedding, patio and vegetable frost is forecast. Keep a careful as growth progresses through- and busy Lizzies are a good All spring bulbs that have fin- out the season. Take adequate choice for shaded or northern ished flowering will benefit from precautions against slug damage aspects. Fuchsias will also per- weekly liquid feeds to build up especially in damp or wet form well in shaded or northern the bulbs and flowering capa- weather. aspects, often flowering well into bilities for next year. Move and the second half of November. divide bulbs that have become Lilies Geraniums (Pelargoniums) overcrowded at the latter half of Lilies come in a great range are a good choice for sun- the month or in early June. of colours and many have the ny positions. Geraniums are additional bonus of a powerful available in upright or zonal Vegetable Garden fragrance. Watch out for lily varieties with trailing varieties Plant any remaining seed Fruit Garden beetles, which are a bright, red known as ivy-leafed varieties. potatoes without delay. Earth up Ensure no plants suffer from luminous colour, as they can Geraniums come in a great range potatoes. Start off courgettes, lack of water after flowering, quickly devour and decimate of colours, which include whites, outdoor cucumbers, pumpkins, particulary wall-trained stone your lily foliage. A regular week- reds, pinks, salmons, violets and squashes, sweet corn, French, fruits. Remove shoots growing ly feeding of a seaweed based lavender. runner and climbing beans under directly towards or out from the liquid fertiliser is recommended. cover. Sow early this month for wall on wall-trained plums and Greenhouse planting into their final quarters damsons. Weeds Plant up tomatoes. There are a at the end of the month to early Open one side of your fruit Continue to hoe weeds on dry, number of varieties available, June. Start off in 9cm-12cm pots cage to allow easier access to sunny mornings using a sharp which include: Cherry fruit- or cell trays. pollinating insects. Dutch hoe. Hoe regularly and ed varieties such as ‘Sweet Protect blossom from frost- don’t allow weeds to go to seed. Million’, which has abundant Keep the grass short. April 30 – June 3, 2021 45 people Sport The Boston marathon winner who defied the odds

Erected by a public subscription organised by the Bandon Athletic Club and expertly craft- ed by Carrigaline’s Eamonn Casey, a plaque in Allen Square in Bandon pays homage to a long SPORTING forgotten athlete from Ballyangly by the name TALES of John Charles Lordan. John joins an illustrious list of famous Lordan’s that includes the jockey Paul Lordan Wayne Lordan, Cillian and Cathal Lordan of Cork City FC fame and English actress Elaine Lordan Paul Lordan is a sports and history enthusiast, and he (perhaps better known to Irish TV audiences as is delighted to combine his Lynne Hobbs in Eastenders). Aside from his love passions in his column. Paul of sport, sharing the same surname, one that is is well placed to comment on sport as a former hurler and relatively obscure outside of West Cork, piqued an footballer with Shamrocks. He interest in this overlooked sporting great for Paul is also a former Munster Senior Lordan, who shares his findings here. League soccer player and manager with Avondale United, Casement Celtic, Garryduff and Passage AFC. Paul’s grá for all things West Cork results from the fact that he is descended Lordan at the finish line of the 1903 race with the huge crowd being held back by police. from a family of farmers in the being one of the most bizarre in over the course of the race. Coolmountain area. Olympic history. Although the John Lordan continued to 1904 Olympic Games proved compete as a long distance to be an anti-climactic affair for runner in the United States ike many of those born Lordan, his forced withdrawal until 1910, and remained in the in West Cork in the after less than 10 miles would Boston area for the rest of his 19th and 20th centu- prove to be decidedly less life. His improbable Boston Lries, John Lordan emigrated newsworthy than the fates that Marathon victory, against to the United States once he befell some of his competitors seemingly insurmountable reached adulthood. He settled in the field. The first participant odds ensures that he is rightly in Boston, Massachusetts and to cross the finish line was an regarded amongst the very resided in the Cambridge area. American called Fred Lorz. finest distance runners in Irish Cambridge was something of However, he was later duly dis- athletic history. a fertile breeding for distance qualified after it transpired that runners at this time. Lordan he had only reached his desti- was the first ever student of nation with the assistance of a fellow Cambridge resident and motorcar. Another American, nationally renowned coach, William Garcia was discovered Frank ‘Tad’ Gormley. Gormley lying on the track with severe was an extremely interesting internal injuries, said to be character in his own right. He Monument in Bandon caused by breathing in clouds started his sporting career as a of dust kicked up by the cars on professional boxer, but quickly the Boston Marathon. go on to win the 1904 Boston hand to transport the race offi- realised that his coaching Despite the negative Marathon), and Jack Caffrey cials. Of the 32 participants that ability far exceeded his in ring headlines brought about by (the 1900 and 1901 Boston started the race, only a mere 14 capabilities. Gormley would the tragic events of the Boston Marathon Champion). Lordan athletes managed to complete go on to have an illustrious Marathon bombing in 2013, struggled with illness in the it. The eventual winner was college coaching career in both the Boston Marathon is better run up to the event and was Thomas Hicks, a friend and track and field, and basketball. known as being the world’s allegedly advised against com- neighbour of Lordan’s from the He was elected to the National oldest annual marathon. Given peting by a doctor on the day of Cambridge area. His victory Athletic Trainers’ Association Massachusetts’ significant Irish the race. This fact, coupled with was considered to be quite con- Hall of Fame, the Louisiana immigrant population, it is a less than ideal training regime troversial. With only 10 miles Sports Hall of Fame, the Great- unsurprising that the marathon (Lordan could only train in the remaining, Hicks’ support team er New Orleans Sports Hall of has traditionally attracted a lot evenings after a long shift at the had to intervene to prevent him Fame and the Louisiana Athlet- of interest from Irish athletes Pump Manufacturing Company from dropping out of the race ic Trainers’ Hall of Fame. City since its inception in 1897. Be- of East Cambridge), meant that due to exhaustion. In coming to Park stadium in New Orleans fore his victory in 1903, John his victory was rightly lauded his aid, they gave him several was also renamed Tad Gormley Lordan competed in the 1901 as a remarkable achievement. doses of strychnine mixed with stadium in his honour in 1957. and 1902 events, finishing fifth Following his victory, brandy in order to see him While starting out as a coach, and third respectively. Despite John Lordan was selected to through to the end of the race. Gormley coached Timothy this, his victory still came compete in the 1904 Olympic Strychnine would later be clas- Ford of the Hampshire Athletic as something of a surprise Games in Saint Louis and sified as a banned substance. club to victory in the 1906 to many commentators. The was amongst the favourites to In the end, the strychnine and Boston marathon. However, his pre-race favourites included a take gold in the marathon. He brandy cocktail was not suffi- earliest sporting achievement slew of future Olympians such represented a rather sizable cient, and his support team had occurred in 1903 when his as Sammy Mellor Jr (the 1902 United States Olympic team, to help him across the finish first protege John C. Lordan, Boston Marathon Champion), and would go on to participate line. Alarmingly, it was said secured a momentous victory in Michael Spring (who would in a race regarded by many as that Hicks lost eight pounds 46 April 30 – June 3, 2021 people Motoring Mercedes goes electric with EQV

First up from the German and hospitality providers and a low central location that has manufacturer is the electric the chauffeur-drive rental sector an additional benefit in terms of cross-application EQV. whose needs include airport handling. It’s a quiet, spacious people transfers, guest transport and Available in two wheelbases, carrier with an almost inau- VIP fan groups and celebrities its technical features include a dible drive train which, at its whose preference is for discreet 150kW battery driving a 204hp introduction, was billed as the transport. motor with power consumption world’s first fully-electric lux- Used for group travel, six weighted of 27.6 - 32.2 kWh ury MPV. Mercedes say it will individual seats convert the per 100 km, a top speed of up to meet every expectation in terms EQV into a high-quality people 160 km/h, 0-100km of 12 sec- CAR of features and appointments carrier while, alternatively, eas- onds and zero C02 emissions. whilst delivering ‘three-pointed ily installed individual or bench When it comes to electric REVIEWS star’ standards of passenger seats can convert it into a roomy cars, ‘range anxiety’ seems to be Sean Creedon comfort and prestige. seven or eight-seater. the biggest worry for motorists. Prospective owners are likely Ciaran Allen, sales manager Mercedes say that that the EQV to include those with large and for Mercedes-Benz passenger will allow you travel to up 350 ercedes were a bit extended families for whom cars in Ireland, said: ‘‘This new kilometres before a charge is slow to the electric generous seating and ample car represent a new milestone in need. A rapid-charging facility market, but they are carrying capacity will be key the growing family of Mer- can boost battery power from Mplanning to launch several new factors. High on the list also cedes-Benz electric vehicles, 10-80 per cent in approximately models in the coming years. will be corporate clients, hotel EQV matches impressive 45 minutes. Òr you can opt driving characteristics, high for a Mercedes wall-box home functionality and aesthetic charger that delivers a 10-100 design with 21st century emis- per cent home charge in around sions-free mobility.” ten hours. Models available in Ireland Standard features include will be the EQV 300 with six electric sliding doors, MBUX seats as standard and prices infotainment system and voice starting from €95,955, which activated ‘Hey Mercedes’ driver is a bit steep. Recent changes assistance feature. mean that the SEAI grant of A high-resolution, ten-inch 5k is not available for electric media display keeps the driver cars that cost more than 60k. updated with information across Seven and eight seat options are a host of headings, many available. relating to energy flow, battery Considering its shape, size, power and usage and others re- overall spaciousness and lating to driving modes, voice- carrying capacity, designers activated features, infotainment, have given the EQV a dynamic navigation and route planning. appearance. Highlight features The top five top selling car include EQ-specific interior and brands in March were: Toyota, exterior elements, a black panel Volkswagen, Hyundai, Skoda radiator grille with chrome and Ford. The electric VW fins and stylish 18-inch alloy ID.4 was the best selling car in wheels. March, but so far this year the Interior space is given over Nissan Leaf is the best selling entirely to passenger and electric car with 445 sales in luggage carrying capacity the first three months, bringing thanks to the positioning of its the number of Irish people who high-voltage battery beneath the now own a Leaf to 5,650. floor for space-saving reasons, people Sport Cycle Against Suicide working with local communities to prioritise mental health support ncreased stress, anxiety and programme trains and equips like to nominate their local If your community has been depression are all side-ef- participants with practical, clubs or associations and sup- affected by suicide and you fects of Covid-19. For some hands-on skills and knowledge port the training of a Buddy for want Cycle Against Suicide to Ipeople this translates to feelings they need to deliver local sup- their community, Cycle Against help, please email info@cyclea- of hopelessness, despair and for port to those in mental health Suicide invite you our join gainstsuicide.com. some suicidal thoughts. Cycle distress. their virtual cycle ‘Share the If you or someone you know Against Suicide is calling on According to Cycle Against Load on the Road’. By joining is struggling, information about communities to prioritise peer Suicide CEO, Caroline Lafferty this 670km virtual cycle from where you can get help for to peer support as a means to “communities are in a powerful April 24 to May 31, you will be mental health issues, please visit identify and help those who position to mobilise themselves helping Cycle Against Suicide www.cycleagainstsuicide.com. may be vulnerable. in support of the individuals to create a valuable group of Cycle Against Suicide in a Cycle Against Suicide is who maybe struggling. Re- skilled and knowledgeable volunteer based national suicide working to prioritise mental search shows that the greatest ‘Buddies’ who can provide awareness/prevention charity. If health support by training impact is made when support is support to people in your com- you would like to get involved mental health support ‘Bud- provided locally by people and munity. with our work, please email: dies’ into communities across organisations who are part of Further details are available [email protected] Ireland. The Cycle Against the communities they service”. at: www.cycleagainstsuicide. Suicide ‘Community Buddy’ For individuals who would com.