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May 28, 01 901 5556/7, New Year2015, Salest:edition, e: info@wicklowvoice.ie t: 01 901 5556/7, e: info@wicklowvoice.ie
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As 1916 centenary dawns we have much to be thankful for Comment
AS we head into a new and historic year, it is time to reflect on ourselves as a nation. Life may not be perfect, but here in County Wicklow we have a great deal to be grateful for and much to look forward to in the coming year. Of course, 2016 marks the centenary of the Easter Rising and the birth of the nation and the Garden County have commemorative events planned throughout the year. From historical festivals and re-enactments to book publications, drama and imagination, the Wicklow County Council 2016 Steering Committee will mark the events of Easter 1916 in a respectful and inclusive manner. The upcoming general election will have many looking back to the leaders of 1916 and wondering who, if any, among the candidates embodies the spirit of the brave men and women who risked and gave their lives for the hope of a better Ireland.
Once we have weathered the election campaigns, we can look forward to a thrilling summer of sport with both the Euros and Rio 2016 taking place, while there are plenty of Wicklow connections in our international rugby team who are chasing their third Six Nations Championship in a row. Bray’s very own Darren Randolph will be hoping to feature heavily in our European campaign in France after he played a vital role in securing our place in the tournament. Meanwhile, Fionnuala McCormack (Britton) and Katie Taylor will be representing county and country at the Olympics in Rio this August. Hopefully, Bray-based Garda Adam Nolan will be joining them in Brazil, among others. These athletes, along with the rest of Team Ireland are an inspiring reminder of the greatness found in this country. This year, let’s look to the future without forgetting where we have come from. Rainbow on the horizon? p11
Bruce showing some affection for Saoirse O’Reilly of Dominican College Wicklow who has entered the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition 2016 with her project The Nose Knows. Pic: Iain White/Fennell Photography » Lots more pictures from around the county inside
Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year from all the Management and Staff at The Royal Hotel.
Unit 8, Radio Centre , Killarney Road, Bray