Go Rail Spring 2016 Vol 6-No 1 by Hot Press Publishing

SPRING 2016 • VOL:06 ISSUE:01

IRELAND’S NEWEST FOOD HERO

DONAL

SKEHAN CAITRIONA BALFE

The Monaghan model who conquered Hollywood +

2 fm ’s

ADAM WEAFER

The Red Rock heartthrob tells all as the show goes global

tr ace y cliffor d , euro

2016

pr e v ie w

ROZ PURCELL

From Miss Universe to nutrition guru

spo tlight on the w ild atl a n tic way

CONTENTS

S P RI N G 2 01 6

Volume 06 // Issue 01

Donal Skehan

018

I N T E R V I E W O N PAG E . . .

06/ Go For It A rundown of what’s hot and happening throughout the country.

about the competition to play for Ireland, Martin O’Neill and Roy Keane’s impact on the team, and our chances of winning Euro 2016.

14/ Go News

28/ Roz Purcell

Up-to-date train news from Iarnród Éireann.

18/ Donal Skehan Ireland’s fresh face of food speaks about his diverse tastes, living on the West Coast of America and what he misses about the Emerald Isle.

22/ Caitriona Balfe

The beauty queen turned health and lifestyle guru talks us through healthy living in Ireland.

32/ Adam Weafer The rising Irish actor muses about his big break on TV3’s ‘Red Rock’ and his love of Irish music.

34/ Go Business Discover the Galway based start-up that’s

epic HBO series and chats about the acclaiamed Dublin film Sing Street.

40/ My Name Is Emily We discover the inspiring story behind the acclaimed Irish-based movie My Name Is Emily, starring Harry Potter star Evanna Lynch.

44/ Wild Thing Peter McNally reports on the best food and activities to be enjoyed along the west coast’s stunningly beautiful Wild Atlantic Way.

Having turned her sights from the catwalk to tinseltown, the Dubliner chats about working with director JJ Abrams and her hugely successful televison series ‘Outlander’.

becoming a key player in sales technology – and their ambitions to take on the biggest competitors in the tech world.

50/ Go Fashion

36/ Go Eat

54/ Reviews

26/ Go Sport

Over lunch in Aqua Restaurant, Game Of Thrones star Aiden Gillen chews the fat about the

Our team of reviewers cast their eyes over the latest albums, books and DVD releases.

The Hull City midfielder David Meyler speaks

We take a look at spring’s hottest trends, including ’70s boho chic.

Credits SPRING 2016

Volume 06 // Issue 01 MANAGING EDITOR

Máirin Sheehy

COMMISSIONING EDITOR

Roisin Dwyer

CONTRIBUTORS

Stuart Clark Liley-Beth Griffin Peter McNally Anne Sexton Roe McDermott Colm O'Regan Ed Murphy Roisin Dwyer Olaf Tyaransen

DESIGN & PRODUCTION

Hot Press 13 Trinity Street Dublin 2

DESIGN

David Keane

STUDIO MANAGER

David Keane

PRINTED BY

Boylan’s Print

GROUP AD MANAGER

Trish Murphy

CHIEF PHOTOGRAPHER

Kathrin Baumbach

PUBLISHER

Niall Stokes

GO RAIL IS PUBLISHED FOR IARNRÓD ÉIREANN BY:

Editor's Message The Irish Food Revolution Will Be Televised! Donal Skehan's lemon curd cake

Osnovina Ltd 13 Trinity Street Dublin 2

Contact TELEPHONE FAX EMAIL

(01) 2411 500 (01) 2411 538 gorail@hotpress.ie

LETTERS

The Editor, Go Rail Magazine, 13 Trinity St Dublin 2

While every effort has been made to ensure the information in this magazine is correct, the publishers cannot accept any responsibilities for errors. The views contained in this magazine are those of the authors and not necessarily those of Iarnród Éireann. All material © Osnovina 2016. All rights reserved. Reproduction of material without permission of the publishers is strictly prohibited.

IRELAND IS IN THE MIDST OF A FOOD REVOLUTION. IF YOU WANT CONFIRMATION, LOOK NO FURTHER THAN OUR COVER STAR IN THIS ISSUE OF GO RAIL, DONAL SKEHAN.

ver the past few years, Skehan has made a reputation as one of the brightest and most engaging young chefs on the island. He is remarkably photogenic: the cameras love his boyish good looks. But it is the story that he has been telling that is really of interest. In his Kitchen Hero TV series, Skehan has always emphasised the importance of great local ingredients. He has looked at what makes Irish cuisine unique and, as a result, increasingly the programme became an exercise in discovering Ireland’s food heroes: the farmers and artisan producers who are growing, rearing and indeed making the wonderful local products that end up on our tables – both at home and in restaurants all over Ireland. Donal has now moved to California – and there is every probability that he will become a very big star on the world stage. Hopefully, he will bring the message about Irish food into the global limelight with him. Because all over the country, the best Irish produce – fish from our territorial waters, fruit and vegetables grown on Irish farms and meat from local farmers and butchers – is now being used in the kitchens of restaurants, cafes and gastropubs to

fantastic effect. Anyone who lived in Ireland in the 1970s will remember a time when Irish food was a wasteland. Well, no more. The standard of what is being produced in Irish restaurants is higher than at any time in history. Star chefs like Kevin Thornton, Derry Clarke, Darina Allen, Rachel Allen, Kevin Dundon, Clodagh McKenna, Dylan McGrath, JP McMahon and Ross Lewis lead the charge. But these culinary leaders have also been training and developing younger talent. In this way, the basic techniques and values are passed on. Good habits are encouraged. But in great food establishments too, the freedom to imagine and to invent is always to the fore. Young chefs in Ireland have been given that freedom. Which is why the food scene here is now up there among the best in Europe. We should appreciate our own; celebrate our growing band of kitchen heroes; and be proud of what they have achieved. Because, like Donal Skehan, they are ready to take on the world...

Máirin Sheehy, Editor

GO FOR IT A R U N D O W N O F W H AT ’ S H O T & H A P P E N I N G

by Peter McNally

Republic of Bruce The Boss is back! 160,000 lucky punters will get to see the New Jersey legend celebrate one of his most beloved albums in its entirety this summer, when he and the iconic E Street Band rock up to Croke Park for the very first time

(May 27 & 29). Acclaimed for his ecstatic three–hour (and more!) rock and roll revivals, Springsteen will, on this special occasion, dedicate half of that time to a run through of his epic two–disc masterwork from 1980, The River.

There’s every chance that some special guests will be on hand for Bruce’s Dublin return – his last stop at Nowlan Park in Kilkenny saw him joined for a scintillating version of ‘Drive All Night’ by our own Glen Hansard.

For best value fares on all intercity services check out irishrail.ie

Need To Know... WHERE: Croke Park WHEN: May 27 & 29 NEAREST STATION: Connolly Street, Dublin

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Friendly Fire

Anti Bliss It’s hard to believe that it’s been two long years since Barbadian superstar Rihanna last graced our shores. That’s all about to change as she embarks on her biggest world tour to date, with over 70 dates throughout North America and Europe, which will include her biggest Irish concert yet in the Aviva Stadium on June 21. In support of new album, ANTI, widely considered to be her most ambitious release so far, Rihanna is sure to bring all the hits like ‘Umbrella’, ‘Diamonds’, and ‘We Found Love’, for this outdoor spectacular. Support on the night comes from Kanye West protégé and Grammy winner, Big Sean.

9 T H - 10 T H J U LY 2 01 6

! e r e h T y Aho Drogheda Port is the place to be on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th July for the fabulous annual Irish Maritime Festival.

All things Maritime plus music, beauty, food, fashion and fun for all ages. To plan your visit see: www.MaritimeFestival.ie Find us on Facebook or Twitter P R O U D L Y

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IRELAND V NETHERLANDS INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY The Boys in Green are lining out at the Aviva one last time, before heading off to France for the Uefa European Championships campaign. They might not have made the playoffs this time around, but the Netherlands have always been a formidable footballing nation and, under coach Danny Blind, they recently triumphed 2–1 over England at Wembley Stadium. Support for the O’Neill/Keane– led team is at an all–time high following a drawn–out and dogged, yet at times spectacular, road to qualification that included a historic win over world champions Germany and a play–off victory against Bosnia & Herzegovina. Bid them a fond adieu on May 27.

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Dizzee Rascal

Julie Andrews at Dublin Film Festival

Need To Know... WHERE: RHA Kilmainham WHEN: June 3 - 5 NEAREST STATION: Heuston

Forbidden Pleasures Racing out of the gates to kick off another spectacular festival season is Forbidden Fruit. The city centre weekender returns for a sixth year to the idyllic grounds of the Royal Hospital Kilmainham, with what promises to be one of the line–ups of the summer. Antipodean psych–rockers Tame Impala headline their first Irish festival since wowing audiences at Electric Picnic last year, joining legendary ravers Underworld and Mercury Prize nominees Jungle, Dizzee Rascal plus many more. For those travelling from further afield, Heuston Station is conveniently located right across the street from the venue.

SEIZE THE DEISE

Little Mix

Paul Young

CONNACHTUNG BABY Keith Barry

Lauran Sheeran

Waterford’s DayTripper Festival has been drawing some big names – like ska legends Madness, David Gray, The Kaiser Chiefs and Imelda May – to the Viking Triangle of Ireland’s oldest city over the past few years. This year’s event moves out to the roomier and more festival friendly surroundings of the Regional Sports Centre and, from July 1-3, features DayTripper’s most impressive line–up to date. Dance legends Leftfield will open up proceedings, supported by local heroes King Kong Company; while the Saturday sees festival favourites Ocean Colour Scene, Stereo MCs and The Neville Staple Band all on hand for the celebrations. The festival concludes with a night of retro–revelry provided by ’80s teen–idol Paul Young, Dublin rockers Aslan, and a special homage to the late–great David Bowie by tribute act Rebel Rebel.

Cork This Way Very few festivals can boast a line–up so eclectic as to feature Irish dance phenomenon, Lord of the Dance (June 16–18), alongside thrash–metal heroes Slayer and Anthrax (June 15). But they do things differently Leeside and, over the course of June and July, the best of international and homegrown talent will be descending on the Rebel County for this year’s Live At The Marquee festival. From legends like Chic (June 21), Don Henley (June 29), Pixies (July 13), The Corrs (June 9) and Tom Jones (July 12), to a new generation of stars like Gavin James (June 10), The Coronas (June 24 & 25), Little Mix (July 3 & 4), Foals (July 5) and much more besides; whatever your tastes, Live At The Marquee has you covered.

The City of Tribe’s streets and venues all provide the stage for this year’s Galway Theatre Festival from April 29–May 7. For nine days of theatre, circus, spectacle and storytelling, the festival will celebrate the best of local and national performance in the cultural capital of the west. Among this year’s attractions are the award–winning The Blue Boy from Brokentalker’s; a new collaboration between Laura Sheehan and Little John Nee called Ribbons; and to coincide with the centenary of 1916, Sisters of the Rising by Christine O’Mahony – an engaging performance where two performers alternate the roles of musician and actor for a funny and poignant story of the many forgotten women who fought for Irish independence.

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WEST IN SHOW Cannonball String Band

CATS ENTERTAINMNENT Need To Know... WHERE: Kilkenny WHEN: June 2-6 NEAREST STATIONS: Kilkenny MacDonagh

The “best little comedy festival in the world”, Cat Laughs is back from June 2-6 with a side–splitting line–up stuffed with national and international talent. A small selection of the massive list on offer features international names like Reginald D. Hunter, Adam Hills and Jason Manford, alongside well-known Irish comedians Aisling Bea, Jason Byrne, Sean Hughes, PJ Gallagher, Andrew Maxwell, David O’Doherty and Maeve Higgins. The festival will open with a gala show featuring the cream of the crop delivering their best ten minutes. 2016 also marks the debut live performance of satirical news site Waterford Whispers News and, for the first time, the Cat Laughs will go racing at Gowran Park for a full seven card race day with comedy commentary and capers on the June Bank Holiday Monday.

WINE & DANDY

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Ireland’s first literary festival dedicated to the celebration of food and wine has become an important hub for food and drinks enthusiasts worldwide to meet and share ideas. This year’s Kerrygold Ballymaloe Literary Festival of Food and Wine welcomes successful wine authors Hugh Johnson and Jancis Robinson, and reknowned chefs Claire Ptak, Francis Mallmann and Yotam Ottolenghi to the picturesque surroundings of Ballymaloe House. The Grainstore will be transformed into an exciting auditorium where thought provoking and inspiring presentations and talks will be staged, while The Big Shed will hold the annual welcome party on Friday May 20.

Here Comes The Nitro Motocross daredevil Travis Pastrana’s Nitro Circus Live will be tearing up the turf at both Dublin’s Tallaght Stadium (June 11) and Cork’s Irish Independent Park (June 12). The high–octane antics of the hit MTV show have been selling out events across the globe for what has been called ‘the world’s greatest action sports show’. The high–risk spectacular features 30 of the world’s best extreme athletes in freestyle motocross, BMX and anything else on wheels, engaging in a range of death–defying stunts and incredible choreographed riding routines. Nitro Circus athletes will also brave the infamous 40–foot Giganta ramp, which will launch a host of ridiculous contraptions like trikes, a penny farthing, a lounge chair, a bathtub and much more high into the night sky.

This year the Westport Folk and Bluegrass Festival celebrates its tenth anniversary in style with a great line–up of colourfully named traditionalists. Where else would you find groups with names like The Cannonball String Band, The Bog Standard String Band and The Kentucky Cow Tippers but at the west of Ireland’s premier boutique traditional festival? The headlining sets will take place at the newly rebuilt Town Hall Theatre and the spectacular Holy Trinity Church, as well as at least nine other local venues from June 10-12. Way out on the Wild Atlantic Way is the perfect place to enjoy some high–energy banjo–plucking, and there will be many open sessions and workshops for those in attendance.

KERRY GOLD

In addition to the hugely successful annual Folk Fest Killarney (July 8–10), which this year features some of its biggest headliners to date in Christy Moore, Damien Dempsey and Maria Doyle Kennedy, the INEC Killarney has a whole host of other treats in store for the summer months. Tastebuds will be tingling for the Killarney Beerfest (May 27–29), which promises the best of Irish craft beers and ciders, as well as the best of Irish artisan gins and whiskeys. The weekend also promises masterclasses, competitions, a food village and some great live entertainment from Booka Brass Band, Mongrel State and The Eskies. In June, the Ireland BikeFest will rumble up to the INEC with four days of free festivities. There will be organised ride–outs along the Wild Atlantic Way, a parade, a custom bike show and entertainment from Jerry Fish, Kíla and The Waxies.

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It's all the page: Anne Enright

Racing Certainty Brought To Book World class racing, fabulous fashion, wonderful food and great music can all be expected when the Dubai Duty Free Irish Derby returns on June 24-26. Unrivalled in its prestige and tradition, the Curragh Racecourse three-dayer is undoubtedly the social highlight of the racing calendar. Held across three days, this 150 year– old event will host an array of live bands and DJs at its Music Village, and will also feature the black tie Irish Derby Ball. The Derby Food Paddock will showcase a selection of delicacies from Ireland’s leading food producers – including restaurants, hotels, cookery schools, cheesemakers, bakers and chocolatiers. With a racing schedule packed with the crème de la crème of the equine world, the Irish Derby is a weekend that always delivers.

For more than three decades the charming market town of Listowel, Co. Kerry, on the River Feale has been home to one of the most internationally respected literary gatherings in the world. The Listowel Writer’s Week is renowned for bringing together local and international novelists, poets, playwrights and audiences and promoting interaction through Q&A Sessions and workshops. From June 1-5 attendees can take part in lectures, readings, book launches, seminars, interviews, theatre, literary and historical tours, art exhibitions and music. The programme for this year’s event is yet to be announced but 2015 saw appearances from famous faces like Anne Enright, Colm Toibin, Graham Norton, Alan Cumming and Dennis Lehane.

Pat McCabe and his Sacrifice At Easter cohorts

A Midsummer Night’s Dream This June the city of Cork will once again be transformed when the annual Midsummer Festival takes over its streets and theatres for two weekends (17–19 & 24–26). 2016’s full programme is yet to be announced, but one already revealed event is sure to be among the highlights. The Butcher Boy/Breakfast On Pluto author Pat McCabe’s Sacrifice At Easter, written in response to the 1916 centenary, will be presented as a site–specific performance at the city’s historic Elizabeth Fort. A multi–disciplinary festival that offers something for all ages, the Midsummer Festival is a great way to become immersed in and explore this dynamic city. From street performances to contemporary theatre, opera to international rock bands and a full cinema programme – this citywide event will lead you to the best Cork has to offer.

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Ahoy There! Need To Know... WHERE: Drogheda, Co Louth WHEN: July 9 - 10 NEAREST STATION: Drogheda MacBride

All roads lead to Drogheda on July 9 and 10 for the Irish Maritime Festival. There will be a Pirate Parade, Viking ships, water displays, paper boat races, and kids cookery demos. More than 200 swimmers will participate in the grueling Boyne Swim. Vessels from the East Coast will challenge each other in the Howth-Drogheda Yacht Race with rafts and rowing boats also going for victory. Add in a food village, fashion, beauty, live music, a close up look at the Fireboat and the Irish Coast Guard and a chance to board the whale and dolphin-surveying Celtic Mist, and the whole family is well and truly looked after. Find out more at maritimefestival.ie

HIGH-KICKING INTO GEAR

THE YOUNG AT HEART SUMMER TRADNESS Taking inspiration from the great festivals of the ’70s and ’80s – like Lisdoonvarna down the road – and from Clare’s deep musical roots, the Doolin Folk Festival presents powerful music in an intimate setting, ensuring a unique experience for musicians and audiences alike from June 10-12. The event takes place annually in the Hotel Doolin Marquee, and always provides a memorable few days of top drawer traditional music. This year’s line-up features renowned names like Finbar Furey, Hothouse Flowers, Dervish and Luka Bloom alongside newcomers Ye Vagabonds and Lynched and much more besides.

ACTIVE RETIREMENT Active Retirement Ireland’s hugely popular annual Trade & Tourism Show is coming to Wexford on May 18, and over 2,000 people are expected to attend. This year the event will take place in the Clayton Whites Hotel from 11am to 5pm. Legendary Gaelic footballer and champion of rural Ireland Pat Spillane will open the show, which will continue to provide a great, informative and fun-filled day out for Active Retirement members and the general public. Attendees can expect over 80 exhibitors from various businesses from all over Ireland, a number of workshops ranging from gardening to tapestry, a cookery demonstration with celebrity chef Gary O’Hanlon and plenty more, including some great spot prizes. This is a free show for all Active Retirement members and the general public, so come along and bring your friends.

Irish dance sensation Riverdance returns home to Dublin this summer for a June 14 - September 4 season in the Gaiety Theatre. The worldwide phenomenon has gone from strength to strength since its debut at the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest. With its fusion of Irish and international music and dance, the show broke all box-office records during its world première run in Dublin and has continued to set new records in packed theatres and arenas throughout the world. In 2015/'16 alone, 66 cities in the US and 25 in China have hosted the current production. Over twenty years the Irish spectacular has been seen live by more than 25 million people. Described by the Washington Post as “a phenomenon of historic proportions”, this celebration of everything Irish is not to be missed.

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LE BON CRUBEEN & T H E C E LT RESTUARANT, WINE BAR AND TRADITIONAL IRISH PUB

Open seven days from 12 pm Until very late Close to The Abbey & Gate Theatres and 3Arena Lunch every day. Early Bird/Pre-Theatre from 5 pm. €26 value dinner threes courses all night all week from 5.00 pm Live Traditional Music Daily in The Celt Bar Party Room available for up to 150 people Rooms Available from as little as €45 pp B & B Tel 01 87888810

81-82 TABLOT ST, DUBLIN CITY CENTRE

Tel: 01 704 0126 i n f o @ l e b o nc r u b e e n . ie www. l e b o ncr u b e e n . ie

CO O K E RY DE MON S T R AT I O N S • G AR D E N I N G AR TS A N D C R A F T S • O V E R 7 5 E X H I B I T OR S Sample the best of what Ireland has to offer, plus GAA Legend Pat Spillane clayton whites hotel, wexford. wednesday 18th may. 11am-5pm

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T R A I N news

Lives Behind The Names Portraits of 1916 In 1966, the Irish Government renamed fifteen stations on the rail network after the executed Leaders of 1916 to mark the 50th anniversary of the Rising.

A further fifty years on, and to mark the centenary of the Rising, Iarnród Éireann has partnered with the Royal Irish Academy to enable daily commuters, tourists and visitors to learn more about the people whose names are celebrated in these stations. Sixteen display panels are on display at Dublin’s Pearse Station, each of which will also go on display at the station named after each leader around the network (Pearse Station was named after both Padraig and William Pearse). The displays feature a specially commissioned portrait of the leader by artist David Rooney and information about their lives, taken from the Royal Irish Academy’s “1916 - Portraits and Lives” publication. A QR code is included in each display so that customers can download the chapter of the book about that person for free.

Iarnród Éireann also announced details of its other commemoration projects at the event, including: •

bringing the stories of the lives of all 42 major figures featured in the RIA’s “1916 - Portraits and Lives” publication to tens of thousands of daily commuters on the DART, with advertisement panels in the majority of the DART fleet. This will include people involved in the Rising in all roles, including British soldiers, civil servants and other Rising leaders

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Iarnród Éireann is also be running a network wide commemoration programme with an event to remember the life of each of the sixteen leaders planned for each station between April and July 2016

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a collaboration with the Irish Railway Records Society detailing the role of the railway in the events surrounding the 1916 Rising, now on display at Platform 1 in Heuston Station.

Make sure you take the time to see the displays for yourself, at each station, or in Pearse Station at the Trinity entrance. More information is available online at 1916.ria.ie

TRAINSPOTTING

LONG TRAIN RUNNING

Feel the Force on Railtours Ireland’s Star Wars Tour Railtours Ireland First Class in association with Iarnród Éireann has created a NEW and exciting three day Railtour from Dublin to Killarney, incorporating the Ring of Kerry on the Wild Atlantic Way and an excursion to Skellig Michael, a recent film location of Star Wars - The Force Awakens. Guests leave from Dublin on-board our Dublin to Killarney Intercity train service enjoying full Irish Breakfast en-route and arriving into Killarney just after 10am, transferring to our luxury coach to begin part one of their majestic Ring of Kerry Tour. Travelling part of the 100 mile circular route guests arrive into the attractive town of Cahersiveen overlooking Kells Bay. Guests will check-in into five star rated QC’s Boutique Townhouse (Winners of the Trip Advisor Travellers Choice Award 2016) where they will enjoy dinner and the first of a two night stay. Day two will see our guests (complete with packed lunch) transferred to the Valentia island village of Portmagee where they will begin the 7 mile sea journey out to Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a recent film location for ‘Star Wars – The Force Awakens’. Spoiler Alert! Rey finally finds the rock where Luke Skywalker has been living as a hermit for all these years. Director JJ Abrams was so happy with this location – he said “the standard had to be authentic; the standard had to be reality” Now let Railtours Ireland First Class take you there! This starkly beautiful rock / island was the extremely isolated home for early Irish Christian monks in the early 6th Century and is traversed by a stone staircase that clings precariously to the rock. The monastery is made

up of six dry stone beehive huts and two boat shaped Oratory’s. Nowadays the only inhabitants are the myriad species of wild seabirds. Returning to Cahersiveen for night two and enjoying the final leg of the Ring of Kerry tour and return by train to Dublin, the following day completes this unique three day tour. Railtours Ireland First Class are an Incoming Tour Operator / Destination Management Company based in Dublin which offers an extensive menu of fully escorted tours from Dublin to Ireland’s must see Visitor Attractions. One day tours to nine day tours with a combination of Train and Luxury Coaches. Railtours Ireland is now entering 18 years of successful operations and experience. Car Free Care Free is the motto! Jim Deegan, Managing Director adds “Railtours Ireland First Class has been successfully promoting Irish Screen Tourism since commencing operations in 1998. Among film locations that we have enabled many thousands of overseas visitors to explore include, Avoca (Ballykissangel), Connemara (The Quiet Man), Dingle Peninsula (Ryan’s Daughter) and more recently Northern Ireland’s Causeway Coast (The Game of Thrones). We feel our latest offering ‘Star Wars’, Skellig Michael and Ring of Kerry Tour will be an exciting and adventurous experience for our guests – in this most beautiful part of Ireland.” Full information is available at: www.railtoursireland. com or by phoning 01-8560045

Iarnród Éireann Freight has commenced trials of longer freight trains designed to boost the competitiveness of rail freight to industry. The trials if successful would see the maximum freight train size on the network increase from 18 wagons to 27 wagons, increasing the capacity and competitiveness of rail freight services. The environmental benefits of rail freight would also be enhanced – currently moving freight by rail instead of road reduces emissions up to 75% per unit, and longer trains could see emissions reduced to as little as one-tenth of the road equivalent. Iarnród Éireann is also working with existing customers as well as Freight Forwarders, Ports and the Irish Exporters Association to identify opportunities and trends for rail freight development within the Irish and European market. MAJOR RAIL FREIGHT TRAFFICS CURRENTLY INCLUDE: • Container traffic from Ballina to Waterford and Dublin Ports • Pulpwood from Ballina and Westport to Waterford Port •Zinc ore from Tara Mines in Navan to Dublin Port

T R A I N news Faster Journeys On The Way Iarnród Éireann is resuming a programme of line improvement works on the Dublin to Cork line, focusing on the section between Hazelhatch and Portlaoise.

The initial investment in 2015 of Ð10 million in line improvements is being followed by a further Ð9 million investment this year, which will lead to higher reliability, smoother running of trains and with other works deliver consistent 160kph speeds (100 mph) by the end of 2016 on this section. This will deliver journey time improvements for customers.

Revised Schedules On Some Saturdays

Wear Your Green Ribbon This May Let’s Talk About Mental Health See Change, the national mental health stigma reduction partnership, is once again asking everyone to get behind the Green Ribbon campaign in May 2016. 500,000 green ribbons will be distributed nationwide to get people talking openly about mental health problems.

The green ribbon symbol is a proven powerful awareness raising tool for clubs, schools, organisations and communities. The ask of people is simply to wear the green ribbon and support a movement to spark a national conversation about mental health in Ireland’s boardrooms, break-rooms, chat rooms, clubhouses, arts venues and around kitchen tables. The green ribbons are available free of charge. Throughout May, you can pick up individual ribbons at the major Iarnród Éireann stations nationwide. If you would like to place an order for 50 green ribbons or more, please complete and submit the order form at www.seechange.ie Don’t forget to like the campaign on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/GreenribbonIRL & tweet @GreenRibbonIRL

Cycle Against Suicide Iarnród Éireann will also be entering a team of over 100 people into the Cycle against Suicide, which runs from 24th April to 7th May around Ireland. Across the stages, thousands will take part. Whether you’re a hardcore two-wheeler, or if you just like to get out for a quick pedal, it’s a great event to be part of, and involving schools on its route to spread the message: It’s OK not to feel OK, and it’s DEFINITELY OK to ask for help. Join in, help out, and together, let’s break the cycle of suicide.

To facilitate these works, there will be service changes on selected Saturdays this year on all routes to/from Heuston, as well as May Bank Holiday Sunday and October Bank Holiday Sunday. Train services will operate in full on affected dates, but to a revised timetable (with the exception of bus transfers between Heuston and Athy for Dublin/Waterford line customers). Full details on service changes for the relevant dates are available at www.irishrail.ie The works involve improving the track substructure, by the removal and replacement of degraded crushed stone ballast which supports the railway track structure. In addition track drainage and track geometry will be improved. Current dates for work schedule (subject to alteration for currently unplanned major events): • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Saturday 30th April Sunday 1st May Saturday 14th May Saturday 4th June Saturday 11th June Saturday 18th June Saturday 2nd July Saturday 23rd July Saturday 10th September Saturday 24th September Saturday 1st October Saturday 15th October Saturday 29th October Sunday 30th October Saturday 5th November

TRAINSPOTTING

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THE SEAT SALE IS BACK

You can keep up to date with rail news, service updates, competitions, special offers and more across our social media channels and by signing up to our newsletter. Follow our award-winning Twitter feed @irishrail where you’ll get all the service updates, news, information, competitions and fun from 07.30hrs to 18.30hrs daily Monday to Friday, when we also answer your queries. It’s also updated with service alerts outside these times. On Facebook, you’ll get the latest on special trains for the latest concerts, matches and more; details of major works and those all important chances to win

– competitions for festivals, cinema tickets and other great events. You can find us on YouTube as well – at YouTube.com/ IrishRailads – where we show you the rail news: you can see how the Enterprise was refurbished and what you can expect on board our Dublin/Belfast service; find out how we’ve been dealing with flooding between Ennis and Limerick; and see archive clips, including a magical day when Kodaline played in Connolly Station. Click like or follow today, and visit our website at irishrail.ie to sign up for our newsletter for offers, discount codes and more!

You know that irishrail.ie is the best place for the lowest rail fares, and now you can save even more, as the Seat Sale is back. Fares are available on Intercity routes, and customers should book in advance as at these fares, they’ll sell quickly. Seat sale fares are on sale: from just €14.99 between Dublin and Cork, Limerick, Galway, Belfast, Sligo and Westport. from just €12.99 between Dublin and Waterford from just €19.99 between Dublin and Kerry. Book today, we’d love to welcome you aboard.

JOURNEYS ON THE UP IN 2015 Passenger numbers on Iarnród Éireann services for 2015 increased by almost 5% during 2015 over the previous twelve months, to 39.6 million journeys. This represents a further acceleration of passenger numbers after our first overall increase in 2014 since the economic crisis began, although still some way short of the peak in 2007 when journeys exceeded 45 million. The largest growth was in DART, which increased by 7.6% from 15.9 million to 17.2 million, demonstrating the need for planned service increases. An increase in DART frequency from every 15 minutes to every 10 minutes is planned, following the review of draft schedules with the National Transport Authority. On Commuter routes, numbers

jumped by 3.3% from 11.6 million to 12 million, with the strongest growth on the Cork-Midleton line up almost 9% to 340,000. Intercity also growth, of 2%, to 10.4 million journeys. Dublin/ Galway saw an additional 6% on passenger number totals, up to 1.64 million. Dublin/Cork remains are busiest Intercity route, up 2% to 2.9 million journeys during the year. Factors driving growth in 2015 included: • The strengthening economy, with employment increasing, reflected in further growth in our Taxsaver business • Marketing activity, across areas including online seat sales, family promotions, student promotions and business focus • Leap Card and other integration methods

• Focus on events to bring new business to the railway In 2016, many of these factors will aid further growth in demand, and the commemorative events for the centenary of the 1916 Rising are set to deliver one of the busiest weekends in many years for

our services. Service developments planned in 2016 include the introduction of a 10-minute frequency on the DART, and the opening of the Phoenix Park Tunnel line towards the end of the year to facilitate direct Kildare to Connolly/Grand Canal Dock services.

GOFEATURE

HUNGER the

Now based in California, Donal Skehan has become one of Ireland’s most successful food gurus. He discusses our richly eclectic culinary culture and what he most misses about home.

t’s a beautiful, warm and sunny day without a cloud in the sky. Not here in Ireland unfortunately, where the spring sun is coyly hiding behind grey clouds, but in California where Irish chef and food writer Donal Skehan, and his wife and business partner Sofie Larsson, are currently based.

He may be enjoying the sun, surf and California food culture, but Donal has certainly not forgotten his Irish foodie roots. “Travelling around has shown me that you can eat very well in Ireland for not a huge amount of money,” he notes. “I love the fact that you can get a very casual restaurant and not pay an arm and a leg and get really good quality food.” You’d think that someone who has made his name as a foodie would eat only in the very best restaurants, but Donal takes a different approach to life. “When we eat out, Sofie and I generally go for a casual dining experience,” he explains. “Any time you live somewhere you have a tendency to go to the same spots again and again, but Dublin offers so many new places and opportunities to try new things. I’m always astounded by the innovative new restaurants and eateries that pop up. I am taken aback by the quality and standards in Cork and Galway as well, but I grew up in Dublin so it has a place in my heart.” Sh what are thespecial places he really likes? “Michelin Star food is not what I normally eat, but for big celebrations, we always try to go to Chapter One. It’s a fantastic restaurant. It’s one that’s mentioned all the time, but it is mentioned for good reason. It’s one of the best restaurants in Ireland, and over the course of 20 years they have managed to remain one of the most relevant restaurants in the Irish food scene.” As an enthusiastic champion of Ireland’s artisan food producers, who does Donal rank as his favourites?

By Anne Sexton.

GOFEATURE

“COOKING HAS BECOME SO POPULAR THAT PEOPLE ARE MORE WILLING TO TRY NEW THINGS AT HOME.”

Farmhouse Cheese I absolutely love, and Young Buck in the north of Ireland do a stunning blue cheese. I also love Highbank Orchards — they do an amazing apple syrup which is great on pancakes. The cider we served at our wedding was Cockagee, which is spelt in exactly the inappropriate way you’d imagine!” Despite being surrounded by the sea, Ireland as a whole is not as fond of seafood as we should be. I ask Donal why... “I think perhaps it may be from the tradition of eating fish on a Friday,” he considers. “It was almost always seen as a

“Oh I have lots!” he responds. “I’m sure I’ll leave out a ridiculous amount of them. Burren Smokehouse is fantastic – I love their hot smoked salmon, it’s one of my addictions. I can buy that and eat it with nothing else, just a fork. It is so good! Knockdrinna

sacrifice, as a lack of meat and it was treated as such. It may be ingrained. It’s also slightly nervewracking to go into a fishmonger and not know what to buy. The beauty of it is, in Ireland we still do have fishmongers who’ll give you great advice. “I think it is something that’s changing. People are more adventurous than they were before, and cooking has become so popular that people are more willing to try new things at home.” We may be getting braver in the kitchen, but we still commit a few food crimes, including overboiling vegetables and not eating enough fruit. What’s the worst of these? “Petrol station eating!” laughs Donal. “Having done a lot of tours around the country, my least favourite thing is if we are really stuck and end up eating in a petrol station. As much as we have an incredible food heritage and tradition and a new wave of great food, we do have some awful crimes as well, such as the full Irish breakfast roll. I do love it, and I’m not saying it’s bad, but that and things, like three-inones, they are guilty pleasures. They have cult status because they are ridiculously tasty, but filled with lots of salt – and are bad for you. So it’s really all about balance.” Having travelled extensively across Ireland, Donal reckons we can be somewhat blasé about what this island has to offer. “The thing is, we do have an incredible country,” he says. “We did a series last September and they had me doing all these exercises and eating for energy, so we were doing all sorts of activities that you can do in Ireland. I was just blown away. I had so much fun filming the series, because we were doing things that completely challenged me and I had never done before – but they are right there on our doorstep. “One thing I cannot recommend highly enough is coasteering,” he adds. “Basically you get into a wetsuit, a life jacket and a helmet and you hike around a mountain and get to cliffs where you can jump off. You jump off the cliff, which is death-defying and terrifying and you swim through these incredible caves. It is freezing cold, but you’re having so much fun.” No matter where you are in the world, there’s no place like home, says Donal, and it is surprising the things you miss when you go away. “In Ireland you can start a conversation with anyone,” he says. “Irish people are nosy. We like to know about the mammy and the daddy and we ask all sorts of questions. I really love that about us!”

DONAL’S FAVOURITE RECIPES MARTHA’S ONE PAN PASTA

LEMON CURD CAKE

A brilliantly simple pasta dish inspired by American food writer and domestic goddess Martha Stewart, which sees both pasta and sauce all cooked in the one pan resulting in perfectly al dente spaghetti wrapped in a silky tomato sauce. Add 100g of spinach for extra greenery.

This lemon sponge is light, airy and incredibly moist, because of the tangy lemon curd and creamy buttercream filling. This recipe was inspired by a lemon cake I was treated to by the nuns at Kylemore Abbey, and it’s hard to beat!

SERVES 2

SPONGE

BUTTERCREAM

• 225g BUTTER

• 300g BUTTER, SOFTENED

• 225g CASTER SUGAR

• 1/2 TSP VANILLA EXTRACT

• 4 LARGE FREE RANGE EGGS

• 520g ICING SUGAR, SIFTED

• 3 TSP VANILLA EXTRACT

LEMON CURD FILLING

• 200g SPAGHETTI • 200g CHERRY TOMATOES, SLICED IN HALF • 1 SMALL ONION, FINELY SLICED • 3 CLOVES GARLIC, FINELY SLICED 1 RED CHILLI, FINELY CHOPPED

• A SMALL HANDFUL OF BASIL LEAVES, ROUGHLY CHOPPED • 2 TBSP EXTRA VIRGIN OLIVE OIL • 50g PECORINO CHEESE, SHAVED • SEA SALT AND GROUND BLACK PEPPER

• 210g SELF RAISING FLOUR • 1 TSP BAKING POWDER • ZEST & JUICE OF 1 LEMON • ABOUT 3 TBSP OF MILK TO LOOSEN BATTER

•

Arrange the tomatoes, basil, onion, garlic, and chilli across the base of a large frying pan. Nestle the spaghetti in the center of the pan and pour over the olive oil and 600ml of water or chicken stock. Place the pan over a medium high heat and bring the contents of the pan to the boil. Using a tongs, stir the pasta regularly and cook for about 10 minutes until it’s cooked and the liquid has nearly evaporated, creating a sauce. Add an extra splash of water if the sauce becomes to thick. Remove the pan from heat and stir though the pecorino cheese and a little more basil. Season with sea salt and ground black pepper to serve.

(OR 2 CUPS STORE BOUGHT LEMON CURD): • 300g CASTER SUGAR

• 120ml LEMON JUICE (ABOUT 2–3 LEMONS) • 4 LARGE EGG YOLKS • A PINCH OF SALT • FINELY GRATED ZEST OF 2 LEMONS • 60g BUTTER

TO FINISH • DUSTING OF ICING SUGAR

• 50g CORNFLOUR (CORN STARCH)

For the lemon curd, place the sugar, cornflour and 450ml water in a large saucepan and stir until you have a smooth mixture. Stir in the lemon juice, egg yolks and salt. Place over a medium heat and keep stirring while the mixture boils, for about 10–12 minutes. Stir in the lemon zest and butter until the butter has melted, then remove the pan from the heat and allow to cool. Preheat the oven to 180°c/350°F/Gas Mark 4. Grease and line two 21cm springform tins. In a standalone mixer, cream the butter, sugar and lemon zest together until pale and fluffy. Then beat in the eggs one by one before adding the vanilla extract and lemon juice. Using a spatula, fold in the flour until you have a smooth mixture. Use a little bit of the milk if you need to loosen the mixture – you want the mixture to be a bit loose. Divide the mixture into the two springform tins, flattening the top with a spatula if needed. Bake in the oven for about 20 minutes, until it’s nice and golden. When the bases are cooked, take them out and let cool for a few minutes before you take them out of the tin to cool completely. While the bases are cooling, prepare the buttercream filling by beating the butter and vanilla extract together in a bowl until light and fluffy, adding the icing sugar a little at a time until it is all incorporated and the mixture is smooth. To assemble the cake, spread some lemon curd on one of the bases before topping with buttercream, then add the second base and sprinkle with icing sugar.

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K I LT Y PLEASURES I

OUTLANDER STAR CAITRIONA BALFE TELLS GO RAIL HOW SHE BOWED OUT OF MODELING FOR THE LIKES OF CHANEL AND VICTORIA’S SECRET AND BECAME ONE OF HOLLYWOOD’S HOTTEST PROPERTIES. INTERVIEW: STUART CLARK

know I have the air of a man who habitually hangs out with Victoria’s Secret models but, nope, Caitriona Balfe is the only professional wearer of superexpensive frillies I’ve ever met.

Also persuaded to get out of bed for four figure sums by Dolce & Gabbana, Givenchy, Channel, Moschino, Marc Jacobs, Roberto Cavalli, Bottega Veneta, Oscar de la Renta and Narciso Rodriguez (who made her his muse), the Tydavnet, County Monaghan native spent 10 reasonably happy years walking the catwalk before going back to her first love, acting. “I was scouted at college as an 18-year-old and got to work with some of the most amazingly creative people in the industry, but fashion was never my passion,” the friendly 36-year-old admits. “I was doing a theatre programme at D.I.T. in Dublin when I took this sort of detour into modelling. I made it a personal battle of mine to get back into acting, which I did in 2009 when I moved from New York to Los Angeles and started taking classes.” It was Hollywood A-Lister, JJ Abrams, who in 2011 gave Balfe her big acting break in Super 8. “Aw, he’s such a great guy!” she enthuses. “Even though it was a non-speaking part, I got to spend the whole day with JJ who was filming me on the same tiny camera he used as a kid to make home movies. It was very informal, so I got to ask him lots of questions and talk about Ireland, which he has a strong connection to. Every February he hosts the Oscar Wilde Awards in his Bad Robot production company’s Santa Monica offices. You’re trying to be all cool and nonchalant as Steven Spielberg wanders past! The Super 8 casting was a massive deal; I’d been struggling to get roles and a work permit, which JJ arranged for me through Paramount. He really went into bat for me when he needn’t have.” Caitriona found herself in the company of Hollywood royalty again in 2013 when she bagged a part in Now You See Me, a Vegas heist yarn that despite mixed reviews grossed a whopping $351 million. “There was one day up on stage when it was literally Michael Caine, Morgan Freeman, Mark Ruffalo, Woody Harrelson, Isla Fisher, Dave Franco, Jesse Einsenberg… and me!” she laughs. “Even though it was a tiny role again, I got to spend three weeks watching people of that calibre work. At first you’re overawed, then you start to realise that, massive stars or not, they’re

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Caitriona with the all-star Now You See Me cast

“AT FIRST YOU’RE OVERAWED, THEN YOU START TO REALISE THAT, MASSIVE STARS OR NOT, THEY’RE JUST PEOPLE.” just people. Now You See Me sort of demystified the filmmaking process for me.” Balfe wasn’t expecting too much when post-Now You See Me she blind auditioned for a new historical time travel series being assembled by the Starz network. “I was given two scenes and told to put myself on tape,” she recalls. “There were just a few lines and no context other than, ‘It’s based on a series of books.’ I did what I’d done dozens of times before, which was send my audition off and then forget about it because the chances of it actually leading to anything are minute. This time, though, I heard back that they liked my tape and wanted to test me with Sam.” The Sam in question being Sam Heughan, the devilishly handsome Scottish thesp who following that screen test became her Outlander co-star. “The Irish mafia being what it is, a really good friend of mine already had a job working in the Outlander costume department, so she was able to tell me more about it. She said, ‘You have to get the books’, which I did before testing with Sam. Diana Gabaldon’s storytelling is so vivid. There was so much horseriding and running around outside and battles. All I could think of reading them was, ‘Wow, this would be so much to film.’ So, anyway, I was cast as Claire Randall and Sam got the role of Jamie Fraser.” While Outlander has done respectably on this side of the Atlantic, in the US it’s a Game Of Thronesstyle cult sensation complete with obsessive fans, endless tabloid speculation as to whose beds the cast are sharing in real life, and running social media commentary on everything else they get up to. “I feel that had I been given this opportunity in my 20s, I probably wouldn’t have been able to handle it or take the responsibility,” Balfe reflects. “When your character’s in virtually every scene and you’re pulling 14 hour days, you have to be focused and present on set. You can’t decide, ‘I’m not feeling it today’ and go missing because that makes things harder for everybody else. Season 2 filming started at the very beginning of May last year and didn’t end until two weeks ago, so it’s been quite a gruelling schedule. “I’m lucky because from day one there was a great alchemy on set. I don’t know whether it’s because most UK actors have done theatre, but there are very few egos or divas. Sam and I are great mates. We’re having a right old laugh doing press junkets together

at the moment. I’d never done TV before so I don’t know if it’s the norm, but our writers don’t mind us bringing notes in and saying, ‘I’m not sure if this is going to work…’ We have a really good dialogue with them in that way.” Lest you think that the life of a TV leading lady is all glamour, Balfe recalls a particularly grim Outlander shoot last year. “I didn’t think anywhere could have worse weather than Ireland until I went to Scotland,” she laughs again. “We filmed in a disused quarry outside Bathgate and it rained non-stop for four days. We had to move our base camp because they were worried it was going to sink. There’s nothing like shooting outdoors in Scotland from October to February to toughen you up!” Caitriona does get to wear some nice frocks, though… “As a woman I challenge any man to spend 12 hours in a corset, a bumroll and a cage and not lose the will to live! One of our writers, Matt B. Roberts, always puts me into a pair of trousers when he’s doing a 1940s scene – and gets a nice bottle of whiskey from me as a ‘thank you’! Uncomfortable or not, the costumes are fabulous.” As part of the Season 2 premiere hype, Starz have decorated all four sides of a Beverly Hills office block with giant wraparound Outlander posters. “It’s funny because when I first moved to Los Angeles I was living with an ex-boyfriend who now has a massive poster of me at the end of his street! You think back to the days when things were really tough and pinch yourself.” Is it possible for Balfe to go to the local 7-Eleven without somebody whipping out a camera phone? “If you walk round acting like you’re someone to be looked at, people will turn their heads. But if you walk round looking like a scruffy bugger, which is yours truly most days, they don’t notice. I generally find it pretty easy to fly under the radar.” Given that George W. Bush asked Charlotte Church what state Wales is in, is there the faintest flicker of recognition in America when Caitriona says where she’s from? “Most people in Dublin don’t even know where Monaghan is on the map,” she jokes. “I’ve learned doing US interviews not to go into specifics because the minute you say, ‘It’s by the border’, they’re like, ‘What border?’” Caitriona was also up for Best TV Actress at the Golden Globes in January but lost out – boo! – to Empire’s Taraji Henson. Not that it seems to have spoiled her night. “I had a great chat with Lenny Abrahamson whose work I’m a big fan of,” she enthuses, “and also talked to Saoirse Ronan who’s the nicest lady. We’ve the same problem with no one in America being able to pronounce our names properly. It was so nice that night to meet everyone because having never worked in Ireland as an actor I’ve felt quite distanced from the industry there.” During the few months she wasn’t on Outlander duty last year, Caitriona got to appear alongside George Clooney, Julia Roberts and Jack O’Donnell in the Jodie Foster-directed financial collapse drama, Money Matters, which hits big screens in May. “Jodie was so inspirational,” Balfe notes. “She liked the tape I’d done, so I went and auditioned for her in person in LA. She arrived with her backpack on and was very much a down to earth, cool person. We got straight into the work. It felt like two actors going through a scene and mining it for whatever we could find. The process of working with her was amazing. The movie is about the world of high frequency trading and the new financial landscape since 2008. It was a fascinating world to learn about and do all my research. Jodie is so smart and a constant source of knowledge. She’s one of those actors that you aspire to emulate even a tenth of what they’ve done. I respect and admire people who put work before fame and life before work.”

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A S TH E REPUBLIC OF IREL AND GE AR UP TO TAK E ON THE CONTINENT ’S FINE ST AT E U RO 2016, GO R AIL MEE TS MIDFIELDER DAV ID ME Y L E R TO DI S CUSS THE BAT TLE FO R A PL ACE I N THE S QUA D , THE I N FLUEN CE O F MARTI N O ’NEILL AND ROY K E A NE – AND W HY THE DISAPP OINTMENT OF FOUR YE ARS AGO IS BUT A D I STA NT MEMORY w o r d s COL M O’ REGA N

or more than three years, mention of the European Championships was enough to make an Irish soccer fan cry; memories of 2012’s dismal showing were still all too fresh, and desperately raw, in the memory. But all that changed late last year. First, Shane Long pounced on a long ball and hammered it past the world’s No.1 goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer, to snatch a famous victory over world champions Germany; a few weeks later, it was Jonathan Walters’ moment to shine, as a brace of goals in the playoffs against Bosnia secured a berth at Euro 2016 for the boys in green. This time, says Cork-born midfielder David Meyler, things will be different. “As much as we respect than the other countries in our group, we want to make a name for ourselves,” says the Hull City midfielder, relaxing at the team’s base in the Castleknock Hotel. “There’s a great combination of youth and experience in our side. You have younger players like Robbie Brady, Seamus Coleman and James McClean, guys I’ve played alongside since Under-21 level; then, you have the likes of Shay Given, Robbie Keane and John O’Shea, each of whom have 100-plus caps and have been to the major tournaments before. There’s a togetherness in this squad, and a hunger to succeed. We’re not going to France just to take part. We’ll go with gameplans for each opponent, and we’ll be approaching it in the right manner, so that we can get out of the group.” To succeed, they’ll have to do it the hard way. Just like four years ago, the Republic have been drawn in the proverbial ‘Group of Death’, with Belgium, Italy and Sweden standing in their way. Meyler wasn’t involved four years

ago — a blessing, perhaps, given the heavy defeats shipped against Croatia and the eventual finalists, Italy and Spain — and neither was the man leading the charge this time round, manager Martin O’Neill. The Derry man is widely regarded as one of the finest managers Ireland has ever produced, and David believes he could play the key role in making this a summer to remember. “He has a great track record over the years, and you can see the job he’s done here, along with [assistant manager] Roy Keane and [coach] Steve Walford,” he says. “He’s come in with fresh ideas, and you can bet any money that he’ll have designs of getting out of the group.” The assistant manager, of course, is a man that David knows well; it was during Roy Keane’s tenure at Sunderland that he left his hometown side of Cork City for the bright lights of the English Premier League. There, he worked under his fellow Rebel, and came to appreciate the sometimes overlooked coaching ability of the Irish No. 2. “I think people forget how great his achievements at Sunderland actually were. Taking over at a side at the bottom of the Championship and leading them to promotion with a record number of points is phenomenal. In my own regard, he’s helped me develop as a player, and continues to do so now. It’s nice to get pointers from someone who’s played in your position; he understands it better than I do, because he played at the very top for so many years. And obviously, he’s a winner. He won seven Premier League titles at United, and success is born into him. It’s the same with the manager. That success, and that confidence, spreads throughout the squad.” Working his own way into the Premier League is a matter very much on David’s mind, as – at the time of writing – his Hull City side sit within

K AT H R I N B A U M B A C H

David Meyler of Hull City and Ireland

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the play-off positions in the Championship. But the run-in is doubly important on this occasion. The coming weeks of domestic action won’t just dictate Hull’s fortunes, but also his own, as the competition to be part of Martin O’Neill’s final squad heats up. “The nitty gritty is just ahead, where the manager will first pick a squad to play The Netherlands in May, and then narrow it down even further,” David says. “Everyone obviously wants to put their case forward, and everyone wants to be involved. I have to build a platform with Hull, in our efforts towards winning promotion. That would certainly help me make a strong case for inclusion. “A lot of the lads will be guaranteed spots on the basis of their performances so far,” he continues. “Rightly so, too: they’ve done tremendously well. But for the few that’ll be scrapping it out, you’ve got to make sure you’re doing everything you can.” You’d forgive him for feeling the pressure, but with a smile he explains that it’s all part of the job. “In our profession, you can’t afford to be nervous,” he reasons. “You have to concentrate, have 100 per cent focus, and be ready for the job at hand. That means training as you play, using every minute of every session, and leaving nothing in the tank; making sure the manager knows that you want to be a part of it. I don’t want to turn around in a few months time and say, ‘I really should have done more’. I’m trying to live with that mentality, and carry that approach to everything.” It’s an approach which may well get him on that plane to France. From there? Who knows where the journey could end...

T H E PAT H T O G L O R Y For the second tournament in succession, the Republic of Ireland find themselves in the ‘Group of Death’. Here’s the lowdown on the sides standing between the boys in green and a spot in the knockout stages – and our verdict on the factors that may determine whether Irish eyes are smiling. SWEDEN June 13 Many moons ago, Martin O’Neill called Zlatan Ibrahimovic “possibly the most overrated player in the world.” How dearly the Swedish talisman would love the last laugh in what may be his final international tournament. He is the undoubted star man of a side who struggled towards the end of their qualifying campaign, and keeping him under control would be a monster step towards Ireland opening their account with a victory – though as his record of 62 goals in 112 games proves, that’s far easier said than done!

BELGIUM June 18 Starting the year as the No. 1 ranked team in the world, the Red Devils boast a squad packed with star names, including Manchester City duo Vincent Kompany and Kevin De Bruyne, and Chelsea pair Thibaut Courtois and Eden Hazard – with the likes of Thomas Vermuelen, Romelu Lukaku and Christian Benteke thrown in for good measure. Their sole loss in the qualifiers came against Wales. Hopefully, the high-energy game and persistent pressure demonstrated by our Celtic cousins will provide our boys with the blueprint for success.

ITALY June 22 Manager Antonio Conte will leave his post to become manager of Chelsea once the tournament is finished – and he’ll be looking to go out on a high. Unbeaten in qualifying, Italy’s defence is anchored by the ‘BBC’ back trio of Andrea Barzagli, Leonardo Bonucci and Giorgio Chiellini, with veteran netminder Gianluigi Buffon as the last line of resistance. Goalscoring has proven a problem for the Azzurri, however, and a watertight effort from the Irish defenders could set the platform for a repeat of USA 94’s memorable victory.

2016 • YOUR CRUCIAL GUIDE TO THE

ISLAND

Available in good newsagents and on hotpress.com

GO DESTINATION:

Dublin-Galway

A Memorable Ride

to the

City Of The Tribes

The nation’s lunchtime companion on 2fm, broadcaster Tracy Clifford recalls the unexpected thrill of a journey to Galway...

SULMAC

“It seemed like half of Ireland had the same idea as us, and was headed off for a weekend of fun in Galway..."

he Tracy Clifford Show has been on 2fm’s schedule for less than a year. What's impressive is that she’s already become a staple part of the Irish lunchtime scene. The DJ, who cut her teeth on Dublin’s Spin 1038, has charmed audiences with her bright and bubbly style – so it’s little surprise that her favourite train journey should also be full of fun and spontaneity. “About seven years ago, my friends and I decided we’d go on a trip – but we didn’t know where. We headed to Heuston Station with the plan of getting onto the next train to depart – which is exactly what we did!

"It was our friend’s birthday, so it was a little magical mystery tour for her – or that was the idea anyway. It was the first girly weekend we’d had in a long time. And that’s how we ended up heading to Galway. It could have been Cork, or Kilkenny, or anywhere else, but no: we were going to Galway.” While the excitement was obvious excitement for Tracy's crew the greatest surprise came when they were on-board. “It was like a party train!” she laughs. “It seemed like half of Ireland had the same idea as us, and was headed off for a weekend of fun in Galway. There were families off for a weekend’s break, birthday celebrations, hen nights and stag parties, you name it. We came armed with Prosecco and strawberries, and it was the best train journey we ever had. There was a really genuine atmosphere on the train.” Of course, it also helped that, at the other end of the journey lay Ceannt Station – and Tracy’s favourite city in Ireland. “Galway is gorgeous,” she enthuses. “It’s small, and compact, and it feels as though everyone’s on a bit of a holiday buzz in the city. It’s so strange. If you’re walking down Shop Street you’re meeting lads who’ve come from Cork, or girls down from Donegal. There’s always an occasion, it seems, and there’s a brilliant, infectious energy in the air.” As it turned out, the girls were happy that one of the group might just have had some inkling about whsat was going to happen, before they boarded. “We have one friend who’s the organiser of our gang," Tracy smiles. "She’s like our mammy for the weekend – she’s the one who’ll think ahead before a night out, and buy us water for the next day. We even give her our money to mind and everything! Well, I think she secretly knew where we were going: the minute we were on the train, she had Google Maps out, booking a perfect little Bed & Breakfast.” That same B&B is now their secret getaway spot in the City of the Tribes – because such a memorable trip simply couldn’t remain a one-off event. “The last time we headed to Galway was for New Year’s Eve. Predictably enough, there was the same party atmosphere on the train that day. But travelling again only emphasised the fact that the random weekend in April, when we decided to pick any train to travel on, really was gas. “I suspect that trip won’t ever be beaten for sheer fun...”

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NATURAL

oon after she won the title of Miss Universe Ireland in 2010, Roz Purcell found herself signed to Trump Models in Manhattan. Already a success at home, the Tipperary-born beauty suddenly had an international career.

ROZ PURCELL IS A SUCCESSFUL MODEL AND ACTRESS. BUT HER LATEST INCARNATION IS AS ONE OF IRELAND’S TOP YOUNG FOOD WRITERS. SHE TALKS ABOUT HOW IT ALL CAME TOGETHER – AND OFFERS INSIGHTS INTO WHY IRELAND WILL ALWAYS FEEL LIKE HOME...

“Yeah, I was signed to Trump Models after Miss Universe Ireland, so I was in New York with them and then in Cape Town,” the 25-year-old recalls, smiling. “So I sort of jumped between the two places, and then I was going back and forth all over Europe.” Roz also had the dubious pleasure of meeting the agency owner on several occasions. “I met Donald Trump a few times,” she laughs. “Obviously during Miss Universe he comes and meets all the girls and then after Miss Universe, when I was signed to Trump, I met him a few times too. So it was pretty surreal, because I used to always watch The Apprentice and then I got to go and see his office and stuff. I think now, with the US elections and everything, he’s obviously pretty crazy, but he seemed fine when I met him.” Despite her success in the global modelling arena, Roz ultimately chose to return home to Ireland and explore other options. “Yeah, eventually I stopped and said I wanted to establish something else outside of modelling – and move on. I think the best place to do it is in my home country, in Ireland – because you have the building blocks and foundation to do it here.” While she still models and appears on TV occasionally, Roz – who has been dating Voice of Ireland coach Bressie for three years – has mostly been concentrating on matters culinary in recent

years. Having developed a negative relationship with food that led her to making unhealthy choices, she changed her lifestyle completely by rediscovering her love of good food. In October 2013, she launched a blog, naturalbornfeeder. com. Her spin-off book of recipes, Natural Born Feeder, was a recent No 1 bestseller. “I was delighted about that,” she enthuses. “People keep on asking me, ‘Oh, how much is it selling?’ and ‘Oh, it’s No.1 – well done!’ It’s funny because releasing the book and doing it, I never thought about that. I just wanted to make a book – and I really enjoyed the process of doing it. For this to be No.1 and selling so well, it’s the cherry on top – because I love talking about food. I love writing about it. I love creating recipes.” Roz is confident that Ireland was the best place for her to develop her blog – and her business. “One thing I’d say about Ireland, that I didn’t find anywhere else, is that there is still such a sense of community here,” she says. “Even though Dublin is a pretty big city and Ireland’s a big country, you still always know someone – and everyone always wants to help each other out. “There’s some sort of comfort in that. I’m not a home person at all. I love working abroad and I love travelling – but at the end of the day after doing that, it made me appreciate Ireland so much more.”

What’s your favourite Irish town? The village of Clon, in Galway. It’s so secluded. I can’t describe it exactly, but when I’m there I feel very relaxed and at home. It’s not overbuilt – I imagine it’s how it looked years and years ago. So they’ve preserved their history there. What’s the best view in Ireland? That’s tough because there’s so many. Probably when you go to Glendalough and look out over the lakes. What’s your favourite restaurant? For healthy eating I go to Rustic Stone, which is fantastic. The Greenery in Donnybrook is great for breakfast. For afternoon tea, I love Ashford Castle, in Co. Mayo. If I’m really treating myself then Chapter One is very special. Your favourite bar in Ireland?

INTERVIEW:

OLAF TYARANSEN.

McCarthy’s pub in my home town of Clonmel. It’s great. They do really good pub grub as well, which is a bonus. Your favourite weekend retreat? Clonakilty in Co. Cork. I can’t remember what the name of the hotel is that we stayed in, but it was really nice going into the old town. We went kayaking and did other adventure sports and there was really nice Irish food and ingredients. Where do you shop for clothes? I’m a high street girl, so I love H&M. I tend to go to a lot of consignment stores as well, like Siopaella, which is in Cecelia Street, in Temple Bar. I kind of live in sports gear, so I go to a lot of sports shops as well. I train pretty much every day. I love sports so I try to keep active. Your favourite sports venue in Ireland?

Croke Park! I’ve gone to a lot of Tipperary hurling finals there and you just can’t beat the atmosphere. Where do you pick up the ingredients for cooking? I love Caviston’s out in Glasthule. Fallon and Byrne in the centre of town is also really good. They’re probably my top two. In terms of markets, I love the one in People’s Park in Dun Laoghaire. They have lots of fruit, vegetables, natural yoghurt, different types of spice mixes – and you can get great fish there. They also do really good brownies and cakes and falafels and things like that. When I’m at home in Tipperary, there’s a really good farmers’ market in Clonmel, where I pick up all my eggs, fish and breads. Your favourite Irish building? Ashford Castle, because they’ve kept everything intact and it’s so regal there. The grounds are pretty amazing. What do you recommend about Ireland to tourists? That they do trips around the west coast – because every time I go back there I see something new. The views are incredible. I’m also fixated on the food part of Ireland, because our food culture here is something that people should really cherish. We’re really big foodies. I’m always pushing people towards going down to the west of Ireland and trying some really good local Irish food. In terms of places to go and things to do, I’d always suggest renting a car and going all along the west of Ireland. Check out Galway, Killarney, Cork. Your favourite Irish song? In terms of artists, it’d be between Enya and Sinead O’Connor. I’d say probably Enya’s ‘Sail Away’. Your Irish hero? Sonia O’Sullivan. When I was growing up, she was always in the limelight – and even now, when I meet her, I get really excited. What’s your favourite thing about the Irish people? Probably our sense of humour. Favourite Irish TV show? Father Ted. I still watch all the replays.

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UP ADAM &

dam Weafer has just finished filming Red Rock for the day. On an unseasonably stuffy Friday afternoon, he is clearly relieved that there is a weekend’s R&R to look forward to. Not for long! The relief drains from his face, and I can sense his embarrassment, when I ask him about his hunk status. He is, after all, one of the hottest new heart-throbs of Irish television. “I don’t know about that”, Adam says dubiously, after an endearingly loooong pause. “I’m just thankful that everything’s going so well – all that’s just media fun and games really. I’m just so happy to be in this job at the moment, to be quite honest.” It’s easy to understand why Adam is feeling so positive. Red Rock is TV3’s first venture into home-grown drama and it has been a rip-roaring success since it premiered in 2015. It was the big winner at last year’s IFTA TV Awards, scooping three impressive accolades, including the double whammy of Best Soap and The People’s Choice TV Show of the Year. “That was a real ‘holy shit’ moment – that people were really taking to it,” Adam recalls with a mixture of pride and bemusement. “I think the public took to it because it was very real and also, I think, because of how it looks on TV. It looks really beautiful.” While his sex appeal is obvious, Adam confesses that his little dog is the only love in his life at the moment. “It’s like that classic thing that I always see actors saying: that they don’t have the time,” he laughs. “Luckily, I’m so madly in love with Red Rock and madly in love with these scripts and story lines, that I feel fully occupied.” He grins. “But sure, I’m always open to an old date.”

A CHOOSE LIFE SPEECH

Acting has always been a big part of the 25-year-old’s life. As a young boy of eight, Adam had a minor role in Sweeney Todd. Fast forward a few years and a curious, teenage Adam was sniffing around the Penny Dreadful set – which was being filmed at Cabinteely House, in his local park. “They were working away,” he recalls, “and I went over – and, out of the blue, they asked me would I work a day. I ended up working for a season with them.” The old saw that you make your own luck

ADAM WEAFER IS ONE OF THE BRIGHT NEW STARS TO EMERGE IN TV3’S AWARD-WINNING SOAP, RED ROCK. HE DISCUSSES HIS FORTUITOUS FIRST BREAK ON PENNY DREADFUL, WORKING ON A SUCCESSFUL TV DRAMA, HIS PASSION FOR IRISH MUSIC – AND HIS FEELINGS ON HIS NEWFOUND HUNK-STATUS. INTERVIEW:

LILEY-BETH GRIFFIN

applies! Adam’s dedication and talent have had more than a lot to do with his ‘lucky’ streak. “Working for Penny I was sponging everything in,” he explains. “I learned fast. You have to, when you’re working on something like that.” Adam’s role was behind the scenes, as an assistant director, on the Sky Atlantic production – but he wangled his way into getting a bit of on-screen action too, working as a body double for both Josh Hartnett and Timothy Dalton. Did he get to meet the Hollywood A-listers? “Yeah, I did,” he says. “They’re actually legends. I was very nervous at the start around them – but they were great. They were all lovely: Eva (Green) and everyone there was brilliant.” Between Penny Dreadful and Red Rock, Adam studied at the Irish Film Academy. He had just graduated when he heard that Red Rock were holding open auditions. “They said to have a minute or two of a monologue ready, so I had a thing learned from Trainspotting, a ‘choose life’ kind of speech – and I just went in and gave it my best shot,” Adam recounts. Red Rock is co-produced by Company Pictures and Element Pictures – who were for the responsible for the multiple Oscarnominated Room. Weaver says that he hugely admires Room’s Irish director, Lenny Abrahamson. Acting wise, the Red Rock star nominates Tom Hardy as his biggest influence. “I think he’s absolutely amazing. I’d be winning the lottery to emulate his career,” Weaver admits. “I hope to go the same kind of way as he has, and play the same kind of roles.”

A GREAT PLACE TO PROPOSE

Acting isn’t the only creative aspect to Weafer’s life. The multi-talented Dubliner is also an avid musician: he plays piano, guitar and drums. In more recent years he has also assumed the role of singer-songwriter.

“I’ll hopefully have an EP coming out soon,” he reveals. “I’m really passionate about that. Growing up with Noel Gallagher in my ear, it just inspired me to get writing.” Asked to choose between acting and music, Adam concludes that music affords him something totally different. “Plucking away on the guitar, writing a song, you just go into this lovely kind of transient zone where you don’t know what time it is, you don’t know what day it is, you don’t care about what match is on TV.” Noel Gallagher aside (both his parents are Irish, Adam assures me), his favourite Irish artists, are Aslan, U2 and Kodaline. He waxes lyrical about Glen Hansard too. “Glen Hansard, Jesus, he’s phenomenal. That movie Once was absolutely incredible.” He goes to gigs as often as he can and especially loves to catch a live show in the intimate environs of The Olympia or Vicar Street. The best gig he was ever at? “Oasis in Slane Castle. I’m really plugging Noel Gallagher here, aren’t I?” he laughs. Adam’s favourite pubs are the ones where he can enjoy a good trad band – which is why The Blue Light and Johnny Fox’s are among his favourite places. “Go up to Johnny Foxes, grab a pint on a lovely day and sit out in their beer garden – and then you just get the sound of a trad band in the background...” the actor’s voice trails off. “It’d be a great place to propose!” One of Adam’s favourite Irish tracks is Luke Kelly’s version of Patrick Kavanagh’s most famous ballad. “‘Raglan Road’ is actually what I use on set,” he reveals. “If I ever have to do an emotional scene I listen to that. That’s a beautiful song.” From talking to the Red Rock actor, one thing is abundantly clear: he’s very proud to be Irish. Given the stellar performances he’s been putting in recently, we think it’s fair to say that Ireland is very proud of him too.

G O B U S I N E S S

Michael Fitzgerald: His OnePageCRM is a success story...

G O B U S I N E S S

START ME UP In just five years, a Galway based start-up has established itself as a major player in the field of sales technology. Founder and CEO of OnePageCRM, Michael Fitzgerald, tells the story so far, and outlines the plans to challenge the global giants of the tech world. words Colm O'Regan photo Kathrin Baumbach

“M

arty Morrissey just tried to connect with me on linkedin!”

Normally when Go Rail sits down with entrepreneurs, it’s difficult to get them to talk about anything other than their business. Michael Fitzgerald, with a glint in his eye, would be just as happy discussing the time he built a raft with some friends and dodged grizzly bears as they floated down the Yukon river. There is, however, a story even more remarkable than any adventures in the Alaskan wilderness: the Galway start-up that’s poised to compete with the big boys of the technology world. OnePageCRM is a customer relationship management system, which has been in operation since 2011, in which time it has quickly established itself as a trusted and valuable part of countless businesses. Its genesis didn’t arise from an academic study of the market, either; in this case, necessity really was the mother of invention. “We all scratch our own itch,” Michael reasons. “When I give guest lectures, I tell students they shouldn’t be building their own businesses straight out of college — you’ll only end up making a programme that tells you where to go for pints on a Thursday evening! Instead, they should be out in the industry, seeing the problems that need to be solved. And typically, those are the difficult ones – otherwise they’d be solved already.” The matter of interest to Michael centred upon how sales software could better assist users – and the answer came through the self-same motto around which Michael based his own business. “There’s a business motto called GTD: getting things done,” Michael explains. “That’s what we use. Sales is just the same — it’s all about actions. If you have enough small interactions with people, they’ll get that warm fuzzy feeling in their tummy, that you’re the right person to do business with. If you send an estimate to someone, for instance, that can’t be the end of it.” To that end, OnePageCRM is built to not only simplify life for sales people, but also to drive productivity. A streamlined interface presents all the information you need on one clutter-free page, while constantly setting out your next task. “Our product forces you to think about the next action, relentlessly going after the next step until you’re over the line. That’s why we’re far more effective than most CRM systems, which are little more than databases. Ours has an opinion, and guides someone how to live their lives in sales.” Of course, that process isn’t achieved by dictatorial instruction. The growth and development of the business is in no small way down to feedback from customers. “A start-up is a very difficult fly-wheel to start turning,”

Michael reveals. “You do things that don’t scale — like how anyone who contacts us gets a personal email back from me. We could probably have done things more quickly, but building the hands of customers takes time.” You feel there’s a lot of humility going on in that account of OnePage's modus operandi, as the business has been hugely ambitious from the outset. Recognising that their low price-point would require a larger market than Ireland could offer, focus was turned to the US — which resulted in some truly comical moments. “You do crazy things,” Michael grins. “I had a US phone number, which came into my mobile through Skype. I was at home with my kids – two small boys at the time – whose main hobbies are running and shouting. On this day, they were really acting up. They followed me while I’m on the phone, chasing me, going faster and faster; I’m charging from room to room, trying to make a sale. In the end, I barricaded myself into the bathroom, at which point all hell broke loose: it was a terrible idea. They were running at the door, banging it, kicking it... I had to tell the guy I wasn’t actually in New York, but rather minding the kids at 8pm in Galway!” Not, mind, that Galway has proven to be a bad centre of operations. “It’s certainly not a difficult place to attract people. One of our best coders looked up the best place to live in Ireland, and found Galway. He searched for the best start-up to join in Galway, and found us. He walked in the door with his CV on a Wednesday, and he was working as one of our top coders by Monday.” But with so many global tech giants based in Ireland, winning your share of talented staff can’t be easy... “Well, a lot of the tech companies here don’t have massive amounts of engineers – it’s more marketing, and the business side of things. In any case, there’s a certain breed attracted to start-ups. Everyone who works with us has a huge impact on the culture of the company, as opposed to the relative anonymity at a big corporation.” Which suits Michael just fine. “Employment gives me a kick,” he says. “We have 18 involved right now, with five more positions to be filled. We’ve never really advertised, but we have 6,500 paying users. But this is the year that we’re ramping it up.” Indeed, products to be unveiled will place OnePageCRM as a viable alternative to industry leaders like Salesforce, while their pattern of doubling their number of users every year has seen their target for users in 2019 stand at 60,000. And while that’s unlikely to change the philosophies and qualities that have taken them this far, one small feature of the business may have to change. “Everyone getting a personal email might have to stop,” Michael laughs. “Unless I can clone myself!”

G O E A T

Into The

WESTEROS The star of Game Of Thrones joins Go Rail in Aqua Restaurant to discuss life in Westeros, his role in John Carney's superb Sing Street, and the current golden age of Irish cinema

w o rd s pho to s

r oisin

b r i a n

dwyer

mulligan

oon to return to our screens in the ground-breaking, TV-shaking series Game Of Thrones, Aidan Gillen is one of the busiest and best-known Irish actors working today.

He did, however, find a few hours in his busy schedule to join us in the impressive surrounds of Aqua restaurant on Howth’s West Pier to discuss his latest projects – and to enjoy some of Dublin’s finest seafood. Aqua opened its doors in 1999 and is based in a building that previously housed Howth’s Sailing Club. The restaurant enjoys magnificent views across the harbour, which diners can admire through its floor-to-ceiling windows. As we settle down to the difficult task of choosing from the mouth-watering menu, Gillen chats breezily about his sundry acting adventures of late, which include, Snatch director Guy Ritchie’s updating of the Arthurian legend, Knights Of The Round Table. “When you’re doing something like that you always hope it’s a fresh take on the story, and it is,” says Gillen. “People will be familiar with Excalibur, which was quite a gloomy version of the legend, good but quite heavy. The Guy Ritchie version is a punchy and fun one. We hope.” How did Gillen find working with Guy? “Great actually. The scale of that production was pretty massive, so that’s always a real luxury,” he muses. “He likes to put together a group of people who will work well together. Or I assume that’s what he likes to do, as that’s what’s apparent from his films.” We have heard various reports that David Beckham makes an appearance. “He is in it, yes,” nods Gillen guardedly. “He’s in disguise, so I’m not sure if we’re allowed say that. He’s in a facial disguise! I don’t want to give too much away – but Beckham is in there somewhere.” The difficult business of ordering now complete, I probe the actor on the nation’s favourite fantasy drama Game Of Thrones. What’s the secret of its success? “It’s the global scale of it that makes it as big as it is,” he proffers. “People really relate to it and go for those big themes, tied in with the production values, which are so high. In all kinds of different cultures, whether it’s Japan,

Russia, England or South America, power, loyalty, family, love, death and revenge all resonate.” When he signed up for the show all those years ago, could he ever have foreseen its success and longevity? “I signed up for a few seasons and then as it went along, well, they took it year by year – which is the sensible way to go, especially in a show like that where some of the characters don’t make it past episode nine. But I would have known that if it was successful, a sixseason arc was the norm, as it was for a Sopranos or Six Feet Under – or whatever was the comparable series at the time. It has shot six seasons now. Whether I’m in it anymore, I don’t know.” The forthcoming sixth season will differ from the others in that the storyline of the television series has already caught up with George RR Martin’s novels. “The fans who have read the books don’t have any idea of what’s happening next and neither do the actors," Aiden says. "That’s pretty exciting because you could have always looked it up before. George Martin cares about his books and he is not going to rush one, so they are playing it the only way he can. It leaves everyone in a more interesting place than ever before.” Our starters arrive: crab and prawn salad for Aidan and fried calamari with spiced tomato, pesto and roast garlic for me. The crab and prawn are fresh and cooked to perfection, with generous portions provided. The fried calamari is of perfect consistency and the combination of accompanying flavours proves a tantilising mix. Game Of Thrones is shot in a mix of locations, including northern Ireland, which has provided Gillen with the opportunity to explore Belfast and its surrounds on a regular basis. “I love Belfast, I’ve really enjoyed my time there over the last six years,” he enthuses. “I’m usually in the city and I always end up near the university or Botanic Avenue. There are really good cafes in that area and the QFT is a really good cinema. There’s also a great bookshop nearby called No Alibis. In terms of Belfast pubs, The Spaniard is a pretty nice spot. “I brought my bike up the first couple of years I was there,” he adds. “One of the best bike rides you can take is along the Lagan Towpath, all the

A MATTER OF TASTE Stuart Clark Brings You The Latest Foodie News

Aqua: it's a sea-foodie's haven

way to Lisburn.” Moving on to other projects, I quiz Gillen on his involvement in John Carney’s coming-of-age drama Sing Street, a music-based outing set in 1980s Dublin. “When I read the script," he recalls, "I remember thinking if they can get good kids for these roles and get the music right, this will be great. And they did. The original music that was written is really strong and they’ve used the best, hot 80s tracks.” The film received rave reviews at Sundance, which were quickly mirrored here at home. Does Gillen think Irish audiences may be more accepting when the US has given a film the nod first? “No, I think people will decide for themselves," he says. "I think people are a lot harder to impress

The Damage STARTERS Crab and prawn salad – €11 Fried calamari with spiced tomato, pesto and roast garlic – €16 MAIN Chargrilled tuna with long stem broccoli and Vietnamese dressing – €28 Cod tomato and chorizo sauce and grilled gambas – €28

in Ireland than they are in Sundance. It is a great film, with a lot of heart. “Maria Doyle Kennedy and myself play this kid’s parents,” he says. “The last time we acted together we were brother and sister, so we've branched out a little (laughs)! The kid is trying to escape a family life that’s crumbling and unhappy. So the parent roles are kind of crucial to what’s driving that kid.” And now to the main event. Aidan opts for the chargrilled tuna, which I am happy to report comes cooked to perfection – meaning that it is not too dry! – and served with long stem broccoli bursting with flavour and a Vietnamese dressing, which brings out the natural aromas. Your humble correspondent’s choice of cod is melt-in-the-mouth perfection, suitably complemented by a tomato and chorizo sauce and grilled gambas. It seems that we are in the middle of a golden age for Irish cinema, with Irish actors (Gillen included) taking leading roles in many Hollywood blockbusters and homegrown films receiving plaudits and awards around the globe. “I think Irish cinema is in a good place,” he nods. “In terms of the Oscars, I’m sure there have been other years when Irish films had lots of nominations – but it was probably multiple nominations for one film, such as The Crying Game and In The Name Of The Father which had great success. “And so, it was great to see so many different titles recognised this year,” he adds. “What excites me most of all, though, is the thought of lots of people going to see these films. In the end, tat's what it is all about.”

Cork this way: Fenn Quay's Kate Lawlor

Thy Kingdom Come

The Chosen Brew

The finest things in life combine, as the Kerrygold Ballymaloe Literary Festival of Food & Wine returns to the Kingdom from May 20-22. Go Rail is super-excited at the prospect of meeting Yotam Ottolenghi, co-author of the wondrous Jerusalem cookbook. “Yes, we’re thrilled that Yotam is coming back and bringing with him Ramel Scully, the Head Chef in his new London restaurant, Nopi,” festival organiser Rory O’Connell enthuses. “We like to think it’s a very democratic festival, in that there’s something for everybody,” he continues. “Along with the scheduled events that you have to book tickets for, there are many, many more free talks and masterclasses. The subject could be Irish craft beer, growing your own vegetables, foraging, or the massive scandal going on in the world of olive oil. We’ve also a Local Hero/ Global Hero symposium, which is looking at the future of food in terms of what we produce at home and abroad. It’d be wrong to bring all these incredible people in, and not address the political and environmental aspects of food production.” Find out more at litfest.ie

It’s “hoppy birthday!” to O’Hara’s, the pioneering Carlow craft brewery who celebrate their 20th with the limited-edition release of their 10% ABV Imperial Stout. A brilliant beast of a beer, it’s joined on our ‘must try’ list by the marvelously named 5.5% ABV Scaldy Porter from Dublin newcomers Whiplash; Boyne Brewhouse’s 4.8% ABV Long Arm Dortmunder Export, which is a perfect summer session beer; and 4.8% ABV Grunt Saison, a Belgium farmhouse-style pale ale from the folk at Howth’s Hope Beer. Cheers!

Fantastic 5 “Our philosophy is simple, we use only the best produce from the best local suppliers and treat them with care and attention to detail,” promises Head Chef Kate Lawlor, and Cork’s No. 5, Fenn’s Quay duly deliver with dishes like O’Mahony’s Feather Blade of Beef with Pickled Ballyhoura Mushrooms & Onion Puree that have earned them a mantle-piece full of awards. Located in a beautiful building on Sheares Street, they also do an excellent weekday breakfast – if the Eggs Benedict are on, grab ‘em! – and a Saturday Brunch that’s legendary in the People’s Republic. Find out more at fennsquay.net

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AGAINST ALL ODDS MY NAME IS EMILY IS AN EXTRAORDINARY AND DEEPLY MOVING FILM, BUT THE STORY BEHIND IT IS EVEN MORE REMARKABLE. GO RAIL MEETS THE KEY PLAYERS IN A CINEMATIC TRIUMPH. BY ROE McDERMOTT

etting an independent film made in Ireland is a challenge at the best of times. But with his debut feature My Name Is Emily, director Simon Fitzmaurice has redefined what it means to overcome adversity. Diagnosed with motor neuron disease in 2008, Fitzmaurice has not only defied that grim diagnosis, he has completely upended preconceptions about the condition itself. He has also redefined what it means to be a creative professional in Ireland. In a culture too often soured by begrudgery, as well as addled by competition for limited funding, Fitzmaurice has successfully forged a genuine community of interest. His debut feature is a moving and poetic coming-ofage story about a young woman seeking to rediscover herself after being hit by tragedy. It generated more than €120,000 of its production budget through crowdfunding. It also inspired ringing celebrity endorsements from Colin Farrell, Alan Rickman, Sam Neill, Jedward and Lenny Abrahamson. A father of five, Fitzmaurice is open about how MND has affected his life. His memoir It’s Not Yet Dark gives a frank and detailed account of the practicalities of his life, which include depending on a motorised wheelchair, a home ventilator, eating through his stomach and communicating through eye-gaze technology. But his condition has never affected either his empathy or his innate desire to explore the human condition. “I’m obsessed with the notion of the artist as outsider,” says Fitzmaurice. “It was certainly my experience. Of course there are many other outsiders, as I very quickly discovered when I was labelled disabled. There are many different margins to society, all of which provide a good vantage point from which to see. “I wrote the script to direct it. MND had nothing to do with it. I am not trying to prove anything. I just keep on going, working any way I can, after MND. I’m very determined. It’s just the way I am. “Actually, I am trying to prove something,” he realises. “I remember thinking, I must do this to

show my children to never give up. A cliché but true. So MND made me even more determined to direct this film.” In his work, Fitzmaurice found a way to channel his marvellous tenacity. Despite concerns that filmmaking would be an arduous and exhausting process for him, he found the work deeply fulfilling and invigorating. “From the first day of shooting I was utterly elated. To me, directing on set is just thrilling, because it requires 100 per cent of your focus, and every creative fibre of my being. I could not sit still now. I’m completely addicted to work, to getting on the road. My wife Ruth wanted me to be a writer because she was worried the film would be too much for me – but from the first day, a fire was lit inside me. Seriously: it was an energy I didn’t know I had, and it has not gone out.”

ON BEING ADDICTED TO THOUGHT

This passion for artistic fulfilment is a prominent theme in My Name Is Emily. The director reveals that Emily’s status as a misunderstood, artistic outsider was inspired by his own experiences at school. “Let’s face it: I’m a nerd!” says Fitzmaurice. “Or at least a want-to-be nerd. When I was in school I was dropped into a class that seemed to me to be full of super-brains. Everyone was better than me at everything: Mathematics, Irish, French... everything. Except English. English was different. We had the best teacher that an aspiring writer could wish for. He was mad – a Doctor of English whose sole interest was imaginative composition. “I wrote weird, emotional stories and he liked them. Made me read them out. It was the beginning of everything. That and Peter Weers’ Dead Poet’s Society shaped my young mind. I’ve been a want-to-be nerd ever since. Except I’ve since grown, to see that feeling of ‘I’m not good enough’ as a strength. I can never know enough; never read, see, do, or, be confident enough. And that’s fine with me. It’s the fire in the boiler. “How that feeds into my work is that I’m addicted to thought – whether in film, literature, philosophy,

Evanna Lynch sizzles on screen with her coâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;star George Webster

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Director Simon Fitzmaurice (front left) has attracted ringing celebrity endorsements for his debut.

A BEAUTIFUL PIECE OF STORY-TELLING

“TO ME, DIRECTING ON SET IS JUST THRILLING, BECAUSE IT REQUIRES 100 PER CENT OF YOUR FOCUS, AND EVERY CREATIVE FIBRE OF MY BEING.” conversation, or myself. Thoughts, bound up with emotions, have been my obsession since I picked up a pen to write down some of my own.” Fitzmaurice’s motor neuron disease changes the nature of the film-making process. There’s a lot of advance preparation when it comes to the screenplay and storyboarding. It also means that his relationships with the actors evolve differently. “One of the hardest things with MND is meeting new people,” he says, “as it takes time for people to get comfortable with me. On the film, I met new people everyday, and I’d have to communicate on a creative level, and very quickly. That is a serious challenge. But we got to know and trust each other quickly through the material. We speak the same language.”

THE JOY OF PLAYING WEIRDOS

Evanna Lynch, known for her role as Luna Lovegood in the Harry Potter franchise, was immediately drawn to the film and to the thoughtful but misunderstood character of Emily. Learning to collaborate with Fitzmaurice was a new challenge for her – but one she found hugely rewarding. “It was very intimidating being around him initially,” Evanna admits. “He has this stern, monotone voice and a huge chair, so he’s quite an imposing figure. And before I had met him I had read his book twice and had deified him a bit – so of course after the first meeting I came out thinking he hated me! “I think because there’s a gap when you’re speaking to him, all these insecurities emerge in the silence! So I think personally that was a really good experience for me to go through, to really trust in myself and to mean what I say.” When Lynch and Fitzmaurice got into a comfortable routine of exchanging emails after a day’s shooting, Lynch discovered how articulate and insightful her director was. The two built a rapport through the particular intimacy and honesty of written correspondence. “That process actually really worked for me as an actress, as I’m quite introspective and I

work a lot though writing,” she says. “I journal as the character. I’m a quiet presence. So for Simon and I to be able to email and explore Emily through writing was wonderful. And it’s also an actor’s dream to have a director who is so invested in the character, which Simon was. Everyday we had conversations, and the more we wrote and got to know each other by email, the more I felt comfortable with him on set. So I’m actually really grateful that we did it that way.” Lynch shared Fitzmaurice’s affection for the lead character. “I love that she’s at odds with the world, but comfortable with herself,” Evanna reflects. “I always felt that dichotomy myself, in that I knew who I was and who I wanted not to be in the world, but I didn’t know how to express it. And Emily thinks she knows everything. She thinks she’s got it all figured out – but she doesn’t really know how to feel, because she’s afraid to feel. I thought she was an interesting mix of being very bold and very brave, but also very vulnerable and afraid of a lot of things that she didn’t realise.” For Evanna, playing a character like Emily allowed her to explore facets of her own personality she had failed to embrace when she was younger. “I don’t think I was brave enough in my weirdness when I was younger, I think I was more cautious,” says Lynch. “I think I almost make up for it now, by playing weirdos! I definitely wish I had been more free with it.” Having lived in L.A. for nearly four years, My Name Is Emily is the first Irish film that Lynch has worked on. She found it inspiring. “I didn’t quite realise what a vibrant, creative community we have,” she says. “It’s certainly opened my eyes to the creative life back home. And working with Simon was life-changing. He’s the most passionate person you’ll ever meet. He loves life. I think because he’s been pushed so close to death and he’s had medical people telling him that he should let go, he’s really struggled to get his voice out there. It was amazing to be around that energy and that zest for life.”

Musician James Vincent McMorrow was similarly moved by Simon’s personal strength, having met the director when they were both guests on an RTE show. “I wasn’t aware of him before that moment, but just hearing him speak on the show, tell his story, it was emotional,” says the singer. “I found myself intrigued by who this person was and what he was doing. When they told me he had written a book, a screen play, and was about to direct it, that blew my mind!” McMorrow allowed a few of his songs to be used in the film for free, but after being shown a rough cut of the film, was so moved by the story that he decided to write an original song to match the power of Fitzmaurice’s film. The resulting track, the haunting ‘You Alone’, expresses the film’s themes of self-acceptance. “Simon wrote a film about loss. I wanted to capture that in some way, without it being too downtempo and sad,” explains the singer. “The repeating line ‘it’s you alone’, which is the crux of the song, wasn’t intended to be sad, it was intended to be defiant. It’s a film about a man refusing to accept the normalcy of life, and then his daughter also choosing her own path – even if it isolates them both and leads to hardship. “That’s an idea which means something to me. I spent a lot of my time on earth thinking about the things we accept as the things we have to do – and wondering why more people don’t question them. There’s also that direct link there for me between those themes and Simon himself. He is as much a part of that songs emotional resonance as the movie itself.” McMorrow is effusive in his praise for Fitzmaurice. “I know Simon and his producers want this movie to be taken on its own merits, and rightly so,” says McMorrow. “But at the same time, I find it impossible to separate Simon, and who he is, from what this film is. Like I said, he is a hero, and I truly mean that. I honestly feel that he and this movie should be lauded from the rooftops. The mere fact that this film exists, and not only exists but is a beautiful piece of storytelling – I just think that’s amazing. “Because every odd is stacked against this person, he could simply wake up every morning and sit in his house. He’s been through so much, is going through so much. And yet this is what he chooses to do: to write books and direct movies. I just can’t fathom it. I hope this sheds more light on the book he wrote. I read it on a plane and I cried the whole way – the person next to me was incredibly confused! It’s such a sad book, but such a triumphant book. I hope more people find it and read it. His story is one that should be known.” My Name Is Emily is in cinemas now

G O

F E A T U R E

YANN MISSION ON A

ann Martel seems like a nice enough man, but the 52-yearold Canadian author can be unspeakably cruel to his fictional characters. There’s certainly no shortage of grief, adversity and suffering in his latest novel, The High Mountains of Portugal. “To me, suffering is the starting point of thoughtfulness,” he declares. “If nothing happens to you, there’s no need to be thoughtful. There’s no reason to grow, to evolve, to change, to become wiser. Wisdom starts with adversity so that’s my starting point for nearly everything I write.” Much like previous offerings, High Mountains is another faith-based work which comprises three surreal, cleverly interlinked novellas, each set several decades apart in Portugal. “In this book, each section starts with someone losing someone close to them and what I’m interested in is where they go from there. What tools do they have? What do they do with that suffering?” Visiting Dublin midway through a monthlong book tour, Martel is sitting with Go Rail in an executive suite in Brook’s Hotel. A mannerly, bespectacled and somewhat intense man, he speaks in a clipped internationalist accent that reflects his peripatetic upbringing. While he writes elegantly, English isn’t actually his first language. The son of French-speaking Quebeckers, Martel was born in Salamanca, Spain, in 1963. His father was a diplomat for the Canadian government, and the family lived in Costa Rica, France, Mexico, Alaska and Canada at various times. “My upbringing was totally privileged,” he admits. “My parents are diplomats, we moved around, good schools.” Now living in Saskatchewan, Canada, with his wife (the British writer Alice Kuipers) and their four young children, he says he doesn’t really know how influential all of that moving around in his childhood was on his decision to become a writer. “It certainly helps in that it shows you that there are different ways to be. The planet is like a big book with different chapters, different characters, so it was certainly very stimulating for me. Was it essential? I don’t know. “Would I have become a writer if I hadn’t travelled so much?” he continues. “I’m not sure. You become a writer because you read and I

WITH HIS FOURTH NOVEL THE HIGH MOUNTAINS OF PORTUGAL JUST PUBLISHED, MEGA-SELLING LIFE OF PI AUTHOR YANN MARTEL TALKS TO GO RAIL ABOUT FAITH, SUFFERING, SUCCESS AND USING ANIMALS AS STORYTELLING DEVICES. INTERVIEW:

OLAF TYARANSEN.

PORTRAIT:

E V A M U R P H Y.

suppose travelling is a form of reading. So it did nourish me a lot, that’s for sure. I don’t know if it was essential, but it did nourish my fiction.” High Mountains is his fourth novel, and his second since 2001’s Booker-winning Life of Pi. A staggering success by any standards, that book – a fantasy about a boy trapped on a lifeboat with a tiger - sold in excess of ten million copies and was turned into a hit Hollywood movie by Ang Lee in 2012. He received a reported $3million advance for his third novel, 2010’s Beatrice and Virgil, another allegorical tale about the Holocaust, featuring two talking stuffed animals as main protagonists. With a track record like that, did he feel much pressure when writing High Mountains? “Not as much as you’d think, in the sense that there’s no formula,” he avers, waving a hand. “It’s not like, ‘I’ve got a good formula so I’ll keep it going.’ Pi was a freak success. I was startled and delighted by it. I’m still grateful for the success and for every person who loves it and writes and talks to me about it, but I don’t want to reproduce it because I didn’t know what I was doing then so how could I reproduce it?” Always fond of combining theology with zoology in his fiction, the novellas in High Mountains all feature a chimpanzee as a symbol for Jesus Christ. “Animals are really good storytelling devices because we tend to view wild animals with a sense of wonder. Also, they echo nicely my religious themes and religions are full of animals. The Garden of Eden was full of animals. The Old Testament itself is full of animals. I find animals lend themselves to religious stories.” Does he believe in God? “Yes, I do,” he nods. “Not in a denominational, dogmatic way, but I choose to believe that there’s more than just this reality. That underpinning this material chemical reality there’s something else. I have no proofs for it, no one does, it’s called faith for that reason, that it’s not something you can verify despite claims of miracles and all that. There are never

irrefutable, otherwise they wouldn’t be faith, it would be evidence.” As the son of Canadian diplomats, how was Yann Martell raised? “Not as an atheist, but my parents would call themselves agnostics,” he says. “To say you’re an atheist is to claim that God is nothing. It’s a faith claim. The actual position of most middleclass educated people is that they’re agnostic. When I grew up there was absolutely no religion whatsoever, only what you would see in the demographic of what we were in. “We grew up with art. You want to understand life? You read great books, you go to great museums, you listen to great music. That’s how I grew up, and that’s how I became a writer.” The High Mountains of Portugal is published by Canongate

eva murphy

G O P L A C E S Malin Head

Take 5:

ON THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY

G O P L A C E S

he creation of the Wild Atlantic Way has been remarkably successful in promoting the beautiful west coast of Ireland globally. As a result, this island is a far more alluring option for the international traveller.

words Peter McNally

What’s interesting is that the innovation has also contributed to a significant increase in the number of Irish people now choosing to holiday at home, rather than undertaking an often expensive sojourn abroad. Indeed, since 2009 the number of people choosing to holiday domestically has been on the increase. So prevalent is this trend that, according to the Irish Tourist Board, 2.5 million people (over half the population!) are now opting for an Irish ‘staycation’ over a foreign holiday. With so much on offer along the spectacular 2,500km coastal touring route – the longest of its kind in the world – it can initially seem like a daunting prospect, when it comes to planning your holiday. Fear not – Go Rail has you covered! Here, for your delectation, we present a handy guide to some of the best that the Wild Atlantic Way has to offer. From music festivals, to outdoor activities, natural attractions to mouth–watering food destinations – we’ve put them all to the test, to help you on your way. Go for it!

5 OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES The best way to experience the sights and sounds of the Wild Atlantic Way is to get out amongst the beautiful scenery and to embrace rugged nature, head-on. This part of Ireland offers a wide variety of outdoor activities that will give you a powerful sense of engagement with the striking surroundings. SURFING Rightly famous the world over for its beautiful beaches and big breakers, Ireland’s west coast is a must visit destination for surfing enthusiasts. From the world-class reef break of The Peek and the ever-consistent Tullan Strand in Bundoran, to the blue flag beach at Rossnowlagh – Donegal has a wave for surfers no matter what their experience levels. For more information, visit bundoransurfco.com Not to be outdone, the nearby county Sligo can lay claim to one of the best big wave surfing locations in the world. Attracting local and international big wave surfing talent, and hundreds of spectators, the infamous Mullaghmore wave sees the brave and the bold riding swells of up to 15 meters, high off Mullaghmore Head. The team at Strandhill Surf School (strandhillsurfschool.com) have all the info you need to get started. CYCLING Cycling is a great way to get out and see the stunning countryside along the Wild Atlantic Way. A number of cycling routes have been carved out including the 42km Great Western Greenway, which follows the path of the old Westport to Achill Midland Great Western Railway line. Along this remarkable stretch, walkers and cyclists alike can drink in the views of the spectacular Nephin Beg mountain range, Clew Bay, Clare Island, Croagh Patrick and Achill. History buffs can visit fascinating gems en route, like the seven-arch railway viaduct over the Black Oak river in Newport, or – taking a slight detour – there’s Granuaile’s Rockfleet Castle and

the 15th century Burrishoole Abbey. • Clew Bay Bike Hire, who recently won ‘Best Tourism Service Provider’ at the Mayo Business Awards, have five rental shops along the Great Western Greenway. They will provide everything you need for a day on the Greenway. They also run a return shuttle service between their Westport, Westport Quay, Newport and Mulranny & Achill Island locations, so you can cycle as much or as little as you want. Handily, they also offer an outbound shuttle service, allowing people to be transported from Westport to Achill for a return cycle. Various packages are available, starting from only €15. Clew Bay Bike Hire’s service will ensure a memorable experience of the Great Western Greenway – and for good measure, electrically assisted bicycles are also available for hire at €40 per day. Phone: +353 098 24818 • clewbaybikehire.ie • Email: info@clewbaybikehire.ie HORSE RIDING What better way to explore the sights and sounds of the great outdoors than sitting back in the saddle and letting the amazing scenery ride past you? The good folks at Island View Riding Stables (islandviewridingstables.com), located between Sligo and Bundoran, will turn you into an experienced equestrian in no time, and guide you along some spectacular trails, perfect for riders of all abilities. Options range from a 30-minute lead rein trek, perfect for young children, to full day trails that take in nearby beaches and also cross the Atlantic channel to O’Connors and Dernish Islands. More experienced riders might opt for the Atlantic Trail Week Riding Holiday, which takes in the rocky coastline of Mullaghmore Headland, the Gleniff Horse Shoe Mountain ride and the rural trails at the foot of Benbulben Mountain.

G O P L A C E S Sailing the Atlantic coast

A Clonakilty Black Pudding burger

TOP 5 TASTES OF THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY With a wealth of produce from the sea and the fields at their fingertips, the artisanal food producers and sustainable farmers of Ireland’s west coast supply the local restaurants with the finest and freshest of ingredients. The geography of the island and its food are hard to separate, and signature tastes exclusive to each region add a massive variety to the ever-evolving menu of the Wild Atlantic Way.

Clew Bay bike hire

SAILING With the Atlantic Ocean lapping at its doorstep, sailing is a popular pastime on the West Coast of Ireland. Wild Atlantic Adventures (wildatlanticadventures.com) offer unique sailing experiences, off the coast of Connemara, that will get you out on the water, to explore the beautiful coastlines and nearby deserted islands. Different traditional sailing vessels are available, including the Galway Hooker, as well as the ancient fishing boats, which are called ‘currachs’. On their tours, visitors will learn about the history and folklore of the often mystical surroundings, and about the challenges that faced the one–time residents of these Atlantic outposts. Offering a unique authentic historical experience, their two-hour tour of the beautiful little fishing village of Roundstone and the St. Mac Dara’s island is conducted on the 120-year-old Galway Hooker, “Bláth na hÓige” (Flower of Youth).

CLONAKILTY BLACK PUDDING Though Clonakilty Black Pudding began in the beautiful West Cork town around 30 years ago, a secret recipe dating back more than a century is behind its inimitable flavour. Made with beef, oatmeal, minced onions, dried beef blood, and the all-important closely guarded secret mix of spices, it has become one of the defining tastes of Ireland. It can be fried, grilled, or even slipped inside a chicken breast for the most inspired stuffing you’ve ever tried: there’s many ways to enjoy it, and do we ever! More than 20 tonnes of the pudding is produced every week to keep up with demand, not just at home but also in the UK and Europe, where the delicacy has been widely – and sometimes wildly! – embraced.

DOLPHIN SPOTTING It would be a shame to visit the Wild Atlantic Way and miss the opportunity to encounter one of its most famous residents, Fungi the bottlenose dolphin. Dingle Bay Charters (dinglebaycharters. com) offer a 4–hour guided tour, on which you’ll have a good chance of spotting this renowned local celebrity, along with whales, porpoises and other native wildlife, like puffins, seals and gannets. The tour also takes in the uninhabited Blasket Islands, where you can explore the long abandoned cottages of those who were forced to leave, due to the hardships of island life. The Blasket Centre (gokerry.ie/blasket-centre) in the village of Dún Chaoin is the place to go for more information on the story of the Blasket Islanders, their unique literary acheivements and their native language, culture and tradition.

CONNEMARA HILL LAMB The uniquely flavoured Connemara Hill Lamb is indigenous to this rolling green region of the west coast, which Oscar Wilde described as ‘a savage beauty’. Naturally born in spring, the Connemara Hill Lamb is reared on a diet of natural fresh herbs, heathers and grasses unique to the Connemara region. A rack of this is truly a magnificent feast! DINGLE SWEETS Dingle, in Co. Kerry, is one of Ireland’s most beautiful small towns – which is quickly making a name for itself as a must–visit destination for anyone with a sweet tooth! The local Murphy’s Ice

Cream is handmade to perfection, while Dingle Fudge make an absolutely gorgeous chocolate fudge that will melt beautifully in your mouth. Meanwhile, the nearby Skelligs Chocolate Company has been producing award-winning chocolates for over 10 years. Let’s go! FRESH SEAFOOD IN KINSALE The historic port and fishing town of Kinsale in Co. Cork has been referred to as the ‘gourmet capital of Ireland’: by way of confirmation, it boasts the greatest concentration of restaurants in the country. With many of them located right on the doorstep of the harbor, it’s no wonder it has a reputation for some of the most delicious, fresh seafood in the country. We recommend the Fishy Fishy Cafe – and that’s just for starters! DONEGAL’S ‘BOXTY’ The traditional Irish boxty is a dish that originated in the northern counties. Developed during the famine as a way to stretch diminishing potato supplies, it’s name means ‘poor–house bread’. Boxty is in fact a delicious variation on the potato pancake. In Donegal they are known as ‘poundies’ and common ingredients include potato, flour, milk, eggs. More modern recipes flavor the mixture with garlic and spices. Indeed there’s no limit to what you can put into a ‘boxty’ – except those of your very own imagination!

G O P L A C E S Surf 's up and (inset) tasty local fare from Vasco

5 RESTAURANTS ON THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY INIS MEÁIN Restaurant & Suites Inis Meáin, Aran Islands, Co. Galway Top of the list for an experience thoroughly exclusive to the Wild Atlantic way is Inis Meáin on the Middle Island of the Aran Islands, just off Galway Bay (inismeain. com). Inis Meáin was described by Food & Wine Magazine as a “contemporary restaurant the critics are raving about, in one of the most uniquely beautiful spots in the world.” Through the restaurant’s floor to ceiling windows, diners are placed in the middle of the prevailing elements, be it brilliant sunshine or howling Atlantic gales. The ingredients are sourced almost entirely from the island itself and combined to create a four-course dinner that changes nightly – but is always superb.

time of the day. With ingredients like the famed Burren lamb and game at their disposal, alongside a wonderfully varied seafood menu, Burren Farmhouse cheeses and microbrewer beers, Vasco is well worth the drive out along the dramatic coastline. FISHY FISHY CAFÉ Crowley’s Quay, Kinsale, Co. Cork. Located just a prawn’s throw from Kinsale harbour, the husband and wife team behind the Fishy Fishy Café (fishyfishy.ie), Martin and Marie Shanahan, could hardly be in a better position to take advantage of the freshest fish landed each day. And boy, do they do a good job, delivering some of the most heavenly fish recipes you could ever dream up. Alongside the restaurant, they also have a fish and chip shop, if you prefer your dinner wrapped and ready to go.

VASCO DINE WINE DELI & ECO ADVENTURE Crannagh, Fanore, Co. Clare. Within viewing distance of the Aran Islands, Vasco is in the heart of the Burren in Co. Clare (vasco. ie). Using only the best of local and foraged produce, Vasco offers a fascinating, foodie’s menu at any

HARRY’S BAR & RESTAURANT Bridge End, Inis Owen, Co. Donegal. Harry’s (harrys.ie) are renowned for their purpose-built cold room, where they dry-age their beef,

with positively spectacular results. Their fish is from just down the road in Greencastle, and many of the vegetables and herbs are from their own walled garden. Local skills in the kitchen transform the raw potential of the area into delicious examples of Donegal on a plate. They also run the widely ravedabout Harry’s Shack in Portstewart. LA FOUGERE Knockranny House Hotel, Castlebar Rd., Westport, Co. Mayo. Head Chef, Seamus Commons, has been described as one of the great contemporary Irish talents by John McKenna of the Bridgestone Guide. He was named Best Chef in Connaught 2009 by Food & Wine magazine. None of which should surprise. He spent three years as Head Chef in L’Ecrivain before moving to La Fougere (khh.ie), which is about as good a recommendation as you could get. The food here is all about great ingredients, sourced from local producers and the game – partridge and pheasant for a start – is a more than a bit special.

G O P L A C E S

yvonnem

Cliffs Of Moher

If it's jazz you're looking for, head for Cork

The Burren

5 NATURAL ATTRACTIONS

see the nearby Tory Islands and, on a clear day, all the way across to the mighty hills of Scotland. At low tide, it is rumoured that you might even spot the wreckage of the ‘Twilight, which sank in 1889 while sailing to Derry. It’s the perfect destination for a relaxing picnic, a spot of fishing, or a more adventurous cliff walk.

Visitors to the Wild Atlantic Way are truly spoiled for choice when it comes to the wealth of awe–inspiring natural attractions on offer. Sculpted over time by the powerful tide of the Atlantic Ocean, this beautiful part of Ireland encompasses the most dramatic landscapes along the island’s entire western front, from its most northerly to most southerly tip... THE CLIFFS OF MOHER, Co. Clare One of the world’s great natural wonders, the Cliffs of Moher have drawn millions of visitors from across the world. The arresting sandstone, siltstone and shale cliffs stand 230 metres tall at their highest point and stretch for 8 kilometers along the Atlantic coast of Co. Clare. In 2014, the Interpretative Centre, which tells the story of the stunning cliffs along the Clare coastline achieved a new record of one million visitors in a 12-month spell – and since then the volume of visitors has gone up by 15%! SKELLIG MICHAEL, Co. Kerry The great Irish writer, and Nobel Prize winner, George Bernard Shaw, spoke eloquently of the striking Skellig Michael, the larger of the two Skellig Islands, which lie west of the Iveragh Peninsula in County Kerry. “I tell you,” he insisted, “the thing does not belong to any world that you and I have lived and worked in: It is part of our dream world.” Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Skellig Michael is world–famous as the site of a well-preserved monastic outpost of the Early Christian period. Recently the remarkably beautiful island featured in the blockbuster movie, Star Wars: The Force Awakens.

THE BURREN, Co. Clare The Burren is a limestone plateau in northern Co. Clare, which was formed by ice and hard weather. Its rocky landscape is at odds with the rest of Ireland’s natural greenery. At The Burren Centre in Kilfenora, visitors will can discover all they need to know about the area and its many walks, hiking trails, cycling routes and day tours. A visit is also a great opportunity to relax in their tearooms before heading out for a day’s exploration.

5 FESTIVALS GUINNESS CORK JAZZ FESTIVAL, Co. Cork Ireland’s biggest and longestrunning celebration of jazz and related musics, The Guinness Cork Jazz Festival has begun to expand its pallette to cover blues and rock ‘n’ roll. The festival been packing them into the People’s Republic since 1978. Set in various venues across the city centre, with headline acts filling the Cork Opera House, its October date confirms that there is life in the Irish festival calendar outside of the summer months.

DURSEY ISLAND, Co. Cork An exciting 15–minute cable car ride will take you to the most westerly of Cork’s inhabited Islands, Dursey Island. Famed for its sunsets – it is known as ‘Europe’s Last’ because of its location on the furthest western tip of the continent – this little island offers visitors an escape from the hustle and bustle of modern living. It is an excellent place to study the local wildlife, including rare species of birds from Siberia and America, while enjoying the stunning views – north to the Skellig Islands and south to Mizen Head.

DOOLIN FOLK FESTIVAL, Doolin, Co. Clare Taking inspiration from the great festivals of the ‘70s and ‘80s – including Lisdoonvarna down the road – and from Clare’s rich musical heritage, the Doolin Folk Festival presents powerful music in a wonderfully intimate environment. There’s another stellar line–up for this year’s event, with legends like Finbar Furey, Luka Bloom and The Hothouse Flowers joined by up– and–comers like the amazing Wallis Bird and Ye Vagabonds.

MALIN HEAD, Co. Donegal A visit to County Donegal’s Malin Head, north of Trawbreaga Bay, places you at the most northerly point in Ireland. From here you can

SEA SESSIONS, Bundoran, Co. Donegal Taking place in the surfer’s

paradise of Bundoran, the annual Sea Sessions festival has earned a reputation as ‘the beach party weekend of the year’. And rightly so. Surrounded by the stunning Atlantic coastline, there’s a wealth of water–based and traditional festival activites alongside a great rock ‘n’ roll bill that, this year, features favourites like Primal Scream, Tinie Tempah, Gavin James and HamsandwicH... GALWAY ARTS FESTIVAL, Co. Galway A creative collision of performance, music, visual art and discussion, the Galway Arts Festival is one of Ireland’s biggest, most vibrant and exciting events, offering a wide range of experiences – from world class theatre to impromptu musical performances – littered throughout the city’s famous winding streets. The big names announced for this year’s festival include Elvis Costello, The Academic and Bell X1 – but there is a vast array of events on offer. FLEADH CHEOIL NA hÉIREANN, Ennis, Co. Clare Arguably the most important gathering in the traditional music calendar, Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann takes place this year in Ennis, Co Clare. At this week–long festival, ewhich draws huge crowds of aficionados and neophytes alike, traditional musicians, singers and dancers compete for the title of All–Ireland Champion. For visitors, this means the chance to see the best of the best traditional artists perform in a unique and welcoming setting.

F A S H I O N

That

Summer_

Feeling

THIS YEAR’S SPRING AND SUMMER FASHION IS ALL ABOUT EMBRACING THE FLIRTY AND FEMININE. ROE McDERMOTT SHOWS YOU HOW TO WORK SOME OF THE MOST IRRESISTIBLE TRENDS OF THE SEASON. FLOWER POWER This spring, florals are staying within the lines, as designers combine two key trends for a killer look, effectively brightening simple silhouettes and giving structure to wild blooms. This piece of design magic is achieved by pairing these splashes with bold blocks of complementary or contrasting colours for a look that is fresh, clean and current. Colour-blocking is a regular and recurring part of our fashion vernacular, and though it waxes and wanes in popularity, this season’s combination of trends leaves much more room for play, letting you incorporate a few key pieces and create new compositions from staples you already own. So if your wardrobe is now

brimming with leftover winter darks and bold pieces, get ready to breathe some new life into them. What trend better evokes freshness and life than some irrepressible flowers? To work this look, the trick is to note what block colours you already have in your wardrobe, and look for pieces with complementary hues. Whites and blacks can easily be paired with florals, so look for bold blooms to team with your black skinny jeans, floral skirts to be worn with simple tank tops, and accessories like brightly coloured stilettos, bags and belts. If you’re expert-level adept, you can even look for pieces that have colour blocking themselves, pairing skirts with multiples colours and bold borders with a lighter floral pattern. Spring is now officially under your control and ready to be juggled all the way through summer!

F A S H I O N

THE GOING GETS RUFF Valentine’s Day may have come and gone, but the romantic trend shows no sign of waning for Spring/Summer 2016. Embellishment is huge for romantic fashion, and one of our favourite key details is the incomparable ruffle. Flirty, feminine and intricate, the ruffle is surprisingly versatile, and can be used to evoke prairie innocence, Victorian sensuality, gothic romance or ethereal femininity. To bring the ruffled trend into your wardrobe, it’s important to know which mood you want to inspire with your romantic ruffles. For a modern, casually chic ensemble, gently ruffled camisoles and blouses teamed with jeans and strappy heels are always in style. For a light spring feel, stick with pastels and fresh floral designs. But if you’re going for a more sophisticated or lusty look, dark gothic blooms bring out the sensuality of what is a proudly tactile trend. Silhouette and shape are also vital to consider alongside your palette, as high necks can feel either Victorian or prairie, depending on the print. Crisp white collars add a sharp 19th century sophistication, evoking the cultural idea of sexuality just dying to be freed. And less structured, flowing shapes in natural hues with floral detailing feel youthful and free-spirited. Now, get ready to ruffle some fashion feathers. The summer is yours for the taking...

Dress coming soon to Miss Selfridge

EIGHTIES LIFE

Neon snap-band watch €15.90, Accessorize

With Full House, Ghostbusters, Jem and the Holograms and Sailor Moon all experiencing a resurgence via remakes, and Irish musical Sing Street doing well at the box office, the 1980s are making a serious comeback. Like all cultural renaissances, this one is getting ready to trickle down into your wardrobe. The ’80s gave birth to more fashion icons than any other decade, offering a style guru for everyone, whether your affinities lay with the sloppy sweatshirts and legwarmers of the Fame hopefuls; the provocative punky pluckiness of Madonna’s mesh of underwear and crosses; or the colourful clashing creativity of DIY kids like Molly Ringwald. For your own personal ’80s revival, look to key pieces to work into your wardrobe. Shiny, high-waisted leggings are perfect for that sexy jazzercise look, and can be teamed with slouchy sweatshirts, or sexed up with some off-theshoulder crop tops. Don’t forget to play with dimensions – oversized sweaters and huge denim jackets bring a grungy edge to floral minis and skintight lurex. There’s an endearing childishness to the silhouettes of the ’80s, so look for flouncy tutus and bouncy mini-skirts, as well as cut-off dungarees. If you don’t go for body-conscious leggings, wide-legged culottes are another option – there’s bonus points if they come in the form of a brightly patterned jumpsuit! And for a trend that’s all about the accessories, more is definitely more. Ordinarily, one would not pair fluffy primary coloured pom-poms with cheeky Virgin Mary brooches, but hey – it’s the ’80s, where anything goes.

Milano ruffled heels €120, Dune White printed blouse, coming soon to River Island Teens Black Ditsy Floral Rara Skirt €14.99, New Look Printed high-neck dress, coming soon to River Island Orange Leaf Print Bardot Neck Top, coming soon to New Look

G O H E A LT H

IT’S NOT ALL IN THE MIND It has been confirmed that mental and physical well-being are strongly inter-linked – and also that there are successful medical ways of dealing with addiction. words Liley-Beth Griffin Increasingly, it is being recognised that a healthy lifestyle goes hand in hand with mental well-being. Of course there are no guarantees: as we all know, the human mind is a complicated thing. In addition, people are increasingly prone to a variety of addictions and addictive behaviour – the effect of which is often a descent into depression, or indeed other forms of mental illness. There is no getting away from the fact that, where addiction is concerned, there may be a need for interventions of a more direct kind, via which the addiction is attacked at source. However, exercise, a balanced diet and a healthy sleep pattern can all contribute, in no small measure, to ensuring that you will be better able to deal with whatever difficulties life throws at you; and that you will also be more prepared to successfully carry on beyond the initial steps in the battle against addiction. And don’t forget: in so many ways, we are all ultimately in this togerther...

Exercise

Studies have shown time and time again that exercise is correlated with good mental health. Keeping active has a wealth of benefits that directly contribute to our mental well-being. For starters, it boosts the ‘happy’ chemicals in our brain – the very ones we seek to simulate when we indulge in what might be considered addictive behaviours. Exercise releases endorphins, which in turn work at creating feelings of happiness and euphoria. This is why exercise can sometimes help to alleviate some of the symptoms of depression. Exercise is also a great way to reduce mental strain and stress. When you are active, the brain releases concentrations of norepinephrine, a chemical that moderates the brain’s response to stress and boosts our ability to cope with mental tension. Along with helping to banish feelings of anxiety and increase self-confidence, exercise really can help to fix a multitude of ills, when it comes to both physical and mental health.

Diet

One of the most obvious, yet frequently under-recognised factors in the maintenance of mental well-being is the role of nutrition. The body of evidence linking diet and mental health is growing at a rapid pace. Or to turn the issue around: how can we expect our brain to function properly if we don’t provide it with adequate nourishment? Concentration and cognitive function are severely affected when we don’t eat well, and low energy levels and feelings of fatigue are often related to poor diet. A balanced mood and feelings of well-being can be protected and enhanced by ensuring that our diet provides adequate amounts of complex carbohydrates, essential fats, amino acids, vitamins and minerals – and, of course, water. A healthy diet is a cornerstone of mental health – and one that can relatively easily be put in place with the proper care and attention.

Sleep

Sleep is intrinsically linked to our mental health. It is widely accepted that sleep deprivation increases the risk of developing mental illness: in effect, it wreaks havoc in the brain, impairing thinking and damaging our ability to regulate our emotions. Whereas a good night’s sleep helps to foster both mental and emotional resilience, chronic sleep disruptions set the stage for negative thinking and emotional vulnerability. Given those factors, it is hugely important to ensure that we allow our bodies to get the sleep that it needs – and more than this, that we actually observe a healthy sleeping pattern. For example, sleeping during the day and being awake at night can negatively impact on mental health. It stands to reason that a good diet and regular exercise help to regulate our sleeping patterns – and in turn that this boosts our mental well-being. So don’t skimp on those much needed hours of shut-eye!

One Step Clinic Addiction, and how to deal with it, is one of the great challenges of the modern era. One Step Clinic provides a specialist medical service to clients requiring treatment for addiction. Every client of the clinic will receive a personalised treatment pla, whether that includes an outpatient alcohol detox programme or a 12 week programme for substance or behavioural addiction (gambling is an example of the behavioural addictions that are treated). One Step Clinic does what it says on the tin: it can successfully treat opiate and alcohol addiction, for example, by administrating long-acting naltrexone. Naltrexone is a drug that blocks the effects of heroin, methadone and all other opiates, and reduces the ‘pleasure’ or ‘highs’ associated with alcohol consumption. It can therefore help patients to remain abstinent from opiate and alcohol dependence. Naltrexone is effective in eliminating dependent behaviour because it acts on the dopamine system in the brain to reduce the rewarding effects of alcohol – and the effect of this is to reduce the compulsion and motivation to drink. Naltrexone also binds to opiate receptors in the brain and blocks them. When these receptors are blocked, fewer cravings for alcohol/opiates can be felt and less pleasure is experienced if any of these substances are actually consumed. This makes it much easier for addicts to stay abstinent and to continue with their recovery program. After all, what’s the point if you’re not even remotely enjoying the substances that have played havoc with your life? At One Step Clinic privacy and anonymity are of the utmost priority. To find out more about this important service, visit onestepclinic.ie

G O H E A L T H

Get on your bike and ride: cycling is a great way to stay fit and healthy

e all know that winter means flu season, but there are some easy steps to take to avoid spending the next few months wracked with colds and viruses. First of all, know that while it’s important to stay warm, central heating can have devastating effects on your immune system. Central heating lowers your body’s natural defences and also dries out your nose and throat, with the dry air leaving you susceptible to sore throats, chest infections and asthma. Secondly, know that getting a good night’s sleep isn’t just a luxury — it’s a necessity to say healthy! Inadequate sleep and fatigue will leave you open to infections, and sleep deprivation also affects your mood and stress levels, leaving your body less equipped to fight off viruses. Also ensure you drink plenty of water, as being dehydrated makes your body less able to cope against invading bacteria. If you’ve already caught a cold, plenty of water and hot tea will help you flush out the infection quicker. Also ensure that your diet is rich in cold–fighting vitamins and minerals. We all know that Vitamin C is good for strengthening your immune system, but zinc is also essential for combating colds and flu. Good sources of zinc include meat, eggs, fish and tofu. Garlic is also a must for those who often have chest complaints — though be sure to follow up your garlic–laden treats with some nice mints. Winter is no excuse for bad breath. During the winter months, it can be easy to slip into eating heavy, comforting foods instead of getting your fill of fruit and vegetables, which are so important in keeping your immune system on the up and up during the flu season. But it’s so easy to inject a dose

of healthy foods into your winter diet, from topping off some warm breakfast porridge with delicious fresh fruit and berries, to making some irresistible smoothies so you can eat healthily on the go. One company making it handy to get your five–a–day is Iswari Organic and Raw Superfoods. Iswari is proud to present four great-tasting tropical flavours as part of its Buddha’s Awakening breakfast range — acai, banana and strawberry, mango and baobab, and pineapple and wheatgrass. Each nutrient-rich, raw superfood breakfast combines omega–packed milled chia and flax seeds, with ground almonds, buckwheat, fruit powders and superfoods. They are rich in protein, easily digested, gluten–free and 100% organic. Furthermore, each mix can be made in minutes, just by adding hot or cold water. Enlighten your morning with this tropical breakfast trio! For more info visit iswari.net or email info@iswari.net Exercising during the winter months can be difficult, even for the most committed fitness fans. The weather’s awful, the days are shorter, and what with all the Hallowe’en treats and Christmas dinners, dieting is nigh on impossible. But it’s important for both your physical and mental health to exercise regularly — and it’ll make those inevitable New Year’s resolutions to lose some weight and get fitter a bit easier to keep. When the weather’s good, go for brisk walks, jogs, runs or bike rides outside, but be sure you wear reflective gear so that you can be seen. Also ensure you’re wearing protective rain gear and cosy workout clothes — it’s easy to think that the exercise alone will keep your blood pumping, but if your body has to fight to keep warm, it’ll weaken your immune system and leave you vulnerable to colds and flus. When it’s too wintery or dark to exercise outside, fret not — there are a whole

G O H E A LT H

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sunlight affecting your mood. Other side effects include lethargy, insomnia or hypersomnia (sleeping too much), weight gain and decreased libido. As with your physical health, it’s important to take note of any changes to your mental health, and consult with your doctor about the best treatment for you. Treatments can include light therapy, counselling and anti–depressants; but there are also some self– care remedies that can help less severe cases. Ensuring that you get out in the daylight and get some light exercise is hugely important, and eating healthy food will help boost your energy levels. Like any form of depression, it’s important not to alienate yourself from others and to voice your anxieties, so make sure you’re

host of great workout videos online that are absolutely free, and you can do them in the cosy comfort of your own home. For best results, alternate cardio with strength training, and put on music or even your favourite TV show in the background — it’ll make the time fly by. Self–care doesn’t just refer to your physical health; during the winter months it’s particularly important to look after your mental health. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), is a hugely common form of depression that is related to the change in the season, and according to the HSE, affects 7% of the population each year. This form of depression most commonly affects people during the winter months, with the shorter days and lack of

Inject some fresh fruit into your diet this winter

interacting with friends and family and are able to talk about your feelings. Your hair and beauty routine may not be top of the list when you think about keeping healthy during the winter, but the combination of harsh weather, a weakened immune system and constant snuffling into tissues can wreak havoc on your hair and skin. Also, during flu season it’s a good idea to keep a small bottle of hand sanitiser in your bag and to use it regularly — but these solutions can also leave your hands dry and cracked. Invest in a decent moisturiser and a good hand cream, and use at night as well as during the day to avoid chapped skin. Johnson and Johnson Baby Oil is no longer just for little ‘uns, and their range of moisturising oil infused with shea and cocoa butter, or aloe vera and vitamin E, is perfect for bringing some silky softness back to your skin. The baby oil with lavender is a particularly good night–time treat, as lavender is a soothing scent known to be a good sleeping aid. Meanwhile, bracing wind, indoor heating and having to blow–dry your hair after getting caught in a wintery shower can all frazzle your hair, so be sure to indulge yourself with a luxurious conditioning treatment every week to keep that ‘do’ looking sleek and soft. We love Neutrogena’s Triple Moisture range, which has Deep Recovery hair masks for damaged or over–processed hair (GHD and dye addicts, we’re looking at you). While the Triple Moisture shampoo and conditioner is a daily winner, use the Silk Touch Leave–in Cream to moisturise dry and split ends, and smooth those pesky flyaways. Your hair will be all sunshine and light, even if the weather’s not.

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REVIEW albums. movies. books

L A S T S H A D O W P U P P E T S pg 55 GOLISTEN.

GOWATCH.

GOREAD.

We run the rule over Gwen Stefani's comeback LP This Is What The Truth Feels Like, the new offering from The Last Shadow Puppets and Belfast duo Exmagician's Scan The Blue.

Amongst the highlights of our DVD round-up are box-office smash Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Oscarwinning Irish hit Room and compelling comedy-drama Tangerine.

We assess the latest book releases, including the new novel by Life Of Pi author Yann Martel, Donal Ryan's short story collection A Slanting Of The Sun and columnist Caitlin Moran's politically themed Moranifesto.

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Scan The Blue, the stellar album from Belfast rockers Exmagician, is among the highlights of our musical round-up. It’s been over a decade since we’ve heard any new material from the talented and ageless beauty Gwen Stefani. The No Doubt singer’s last album, The Sweet Escape, was released in 2006, and proved a quality follow-up to her hugely successful solo debut, Love. Angel. Music. Baby. During the intervening years, Stefani recorded an album with her old band No Doubt, had two more children and acted as a coach on the US television show The Voice. However, the spark of inspiration for her latest record This Is What The Truth Feels Like, is what the music industry was built on: heartbreak. In September 2015, Stefani finalised her divorce from her husband, musician Gavin Rosdale of Rush. The disintegration of her 14-year marriage is at the heart of her ‘breakup album’. She enlists the help of songwriters Justin Tranter and Julia Michaels to craft her trademark pop juggernauts. There are banging anthems (‘Make Me Like You’), faux-reggae excursions (‘Send Me A Picture’) and electro stompers (‘Rare’). Amid the contortions, Stefani feels like a passenger on her own record, her pointed vocal style often at odds with the lush production. This is not her finest hour... Next up a homegrown pair from Belfast, who have been friends since they were in their teens. Danny Todd and James Smith, better known as Exmagician, have released a dazzling collection of songs on Scan The Blue. The duo were that main movers in Cashier No.9, whose David Holmesproduced album To The Death Of Fun was a corker. They’ve left behind the polished West Coast vibes of their previous incarnation in favour of a grittier, fuzzier, synth-infused statement. The 11-track Scan The Blue is a wonderful walk on the weird side that takes inspiration from psychedelia, British glam and American country. The finger-snapping, synthy stomper ‘Job Done’, like a mad, mutant cousin of Manfred Mann’s ‘Pretty Flamingo’, is a particular highlight.

Breaking up is hard to do: Gwen Stefani

Elsewhere, the cinematic Stone Roses-esque ‘Desperado’ and the euphoric, dream pop-tinged ‘Bend With The Wind’ confirm that Exmagician have plenty of tricks up their sleeves. Expect Scan The Blue to make many album of the year lists. The Last Shadow Puppets are an English 'supergroup', consisting of Alex Turner, lead singer of Arctic Monkeys, and guitarist Miles Kane. Musically, the duo are inspired by The Beatles, early Bowie and ’70s progressive rock. Their debut album, The Age Of The Understatement, went straight to No.1 in the UK in April 2008. Eight years on, Turner and Kane have recruited exactly the same personnel for their second record, Everything You’ve Come to Expect. Longstanding Arctic Monkeys knob twister and half of Simian Mobile Disco, James Ford, mans the production desk and the drums, while former Final Fantasy arranging genius Owen Pallett looks after

the strings. Zach Dawes arrives on bass having collaborated with the great Brian Wilson, and lends more beef to proceedings. Lead single ‘Bad Habits’ didn’t exactly augur brilliantly, rehashing the script from the duo’s debut. Thankfully, Everything You’ve Come to Expect is better than that tune suggested, mainly due to Turner’s assured songwriting. The first half is very solid, if not spectacular, although ‘Bad Habits’ and ‘Sweet Dreams, TN’ see the quality dip in the middle. The album finishes with a flourish, however, thanks to ‘Dream Synopsis’, which is reminiscent of Turner’s more contemplative work with Arctic Monkeys. The Last Shadow Puppets remain an intriguing side project, but perhaps they need to look at freshening the approach next time around.

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As the Spring tide turns, the best of the year’s films are released into our homes. From the biggest blockbusters ever made, to small quirky indie films and Oscar winners galore, Roe McDermott reviews the best DVDs.

There’s a poignant, chest-swelling lyricism to Brooklyn; a visual ballad about immigration, home and love. Director John Crowley brings Colm Toibin’s words to the screen with deftness and grace, capturing variously the bustling sidewalks, candyfloss flavoured, pink-skied wonder of 1950s America; the reed-rustling, fresh-aired beauty of Ireland; and the struggle of a young woman, who is torn between them. Saoirse Ronan’s eyes radiate an energy that’s forever on a precipice, constantly deciding between tears and steel. She’s the perfect choice for Eilis, a young Enniscorthy woman who leaves her mother (Jane Brennan) and sister (Fiona Glascott) to seek work in New York. The emotional ambivalence Ronan portrays is echoed by Crowley’s unsentimental direction. Two suitors (Emory Cohen and Domhnall Gleeson) complicate the inner conflict Eilis’ feels between her two homes. The ever-growing emotional stakes and the influence of the superbly written supporting characters make Brooklyn an oxygenthinning ascent to a dramatic and powerful emotional climax. In Tangerine, available on DVD now, Sin-Dee and Alexandra are having a rough Christmas Eve in LA. Sin-Dee has just discovered that her boyfriend cheated on her, and Alexandra can’t even get her friends to come watch her one-woman show. As the two quick-witted women strut and swagger their way through Los Angeles, their huge personalities and irreverent support of each other is utterly infectious. Oh, by the way: the two lead actresses are transgender women of colour, their characters are prostitutes, and the entire film was shot on an iPhone. Through their interactions with LA locals, Sin-Dee and Alexandra are forced to constantly navigate their identity, and seek out moments of love, respect and affection. Shot in luminescent saturated colours, Baker shows both the garish promise of dreams and the vibrant excitement that the city offers. Political, progressive, fun, flirty and emotional, Tangerine is like its title fruit: loud, bright, sweet and irresistibly fresh. In Star Wars: The Force Awakens. J.J. Abrams and screenwriter Lawrence Kasdan have perfectly balanced the old and new, the humour and heartbreak. They have also updated what was formerly a white, male-dominated universe to one filled with equals – not merely in the reductive sense of physical strength and skill with a lightsaber, but equal in vulnerability, in ambition, in need for love and deep reservoirs of courage.

Space odyssey: Star Wars

It’s not just the action sequences that prove a rollercoaster of feeling. Abrams and Kasdan maintain a blend of levity and longing throughout. There are earnest throwbacks and merry winks to the film’s predecessors, and also a contemporary wit that feels like an uproarious, dynamic dialogue between generations... Spotlight, the true story of the Pulitzer Prizewinning Boston Globe investigation into the Catholic Church and child sex abuse is released on DVD in May. This intelligent and passionate procedural reveals the machinations of the investigation, as well as the layers of complicity that shake its characters and their city to the core. Director Tom McCarthy (The Station Agent, The Visitor) is known for creating characters brimming with authenticity, and those in Spotlight are worthy of the incredible cast. Michael Keaton is the brains of the operation as the seemingly hardnosed but deeply empathetic head of the team, while Brain D’Arcy James is the vital but understated backbone, whose own patient objectivity is threatened when he discovers that abusers lie – literally – on his doorstep. Rachel McAdams is the team’s hard-hitting fist, digging into horrifying interviews with former priests, but whose vice-like grip on the truth conflicts with her desperate grasping for hope. Finally, Mark Ruffalo

is the team’s beaten-down but still beating heart, pulsing with emotion and adrenalin. Together, they work through the stages of grief when they realise their city, their Church and their faith was based on the most violent lies. Also released on DVD in May is Lenny Abrahamson’s brilliant Room, a heart-wrenching exploration of love, trauma, hope and the bonds between a mother and child. Author Emma Donoghue adapts her own novel into a stunning screenplay of emotional intricacy, dramatic tension and character development. Exploring the lives of a kidnapped woman, Joy (Brie Larson in an Oscar-winning performance), and her captivityborn son Jack (Jacob Tremblay), as they enter their fifth year of living in a ten-by-ten room – and sunsequently as they emerge back into the world, Donoghue and Abrahamson imbue the unthinkable with emotion and empathy. Their tiny but rich world is viewed through Jack’s eyes, and thanks to Ma’s feral protection of him, he is mostly shielded from the horrors inflicted upon her by their captor. Escaping isn’t the only challenge Joy and Jack face. The world is waiting. Each interaction onscreen is imbued with bone-shuddering emotional complexity, but the overall arc is one of hope, faith and love.

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The High Mountains of Portugal, the latest offering from Booker Prize-winning author Yann Martel, leads the way on our recommended reading list.

ex-girlfriend. Ryan chronicles loss, anger, forgiveness and desire with remarkable skill. Elsewhere, award-winning UK columnist Caitlin Moran hits the nail on its proverbial head more than a few times in her latest offering, Moranifesto. “The reason the more unequal countries are so troubled is... because they are more stupid.” By which the author means they totally suppress their female populations, thereby halving their potential brainpower. Indeed, over the course of 435 thoughtprovoking pages, Moran hits many no-brainer bullseyes – on everything from feminism, sexism and misogyny to politics, equality and the welfare state. Whether you agree with her various stances or not is almost entirely irrelevant, because the one quality that almost all of these pieces share is that they’re very, very funny. A strong early contender for one of the wittiest books of 2016.

(right) Has she got views for you: Caitlin Moran

G A R E T H I WA N J O N E S

Now that spring has sprung, it’s time to shake up your reading list and invest in some good books to see you through the oncoming summer. First up is the fourth novel from the bestselling author of The Life of Pi, Yann Martel. The High Mountains of Portugal essentially comprises three interlinked novellas.In Lisbon in 1904, a young man named Tomás discovers an old journal. It hints at the existence of an extraordinary artefact, which if found will redefine history. Traveling in one of Europe’s earliest automobiles, borrowed from his wealthy uncle, he sets out in search of this strange treasure. Thirty-five years later, a Portuguese pathologist devoted to the murder mysteries of Agatha Christie finds himself at the centre of a mystery of his own, and is drawn into the consequences of Tomás’s quest. Five decades on, a Canadian senator takes refuge in his ancestral village in northern Portugal, grieving the loss of his wife. But he arrives with an unusual companion: a chimpanzee. And there the century-old quest will come to an unexpected conclusion. Thought provoking and often surprising, this is a masterful work. If you’re looking for something more bitesized, check out Donal Ryan’s latest collection of short stories, A Slanting of the Sun. Since the release of his acclaimed first novel, The Spinning Heart, Ryan has established himself as one of Ireland’s most talented writers. In this work, Ryan’s many gifts are foregrounded — chiefly his ability to delineate the human capacity for selfishness and greed, as well as love and mercy. Standouts include the titular ‘A Slanting of the Sun’, about a fatal robbery on a farm; ‘Aisling’, the story of a man going through a series of emotions as he watches his ex-girlfriend with her new partner; and ‘The Passion’, which explores the developing relationship between a young man and the mother of his dead

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Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel offers a winning combination of comfort, location, value & style. The beautiful property is located in the heart of Kilkenny, a city bursting with life, and boasts the perfect blend of contemporary and traditional. From the striking historical exterior to the warm Irish welcome waiting inside, the emphasis throughout is on luxury, style, and unbeatable service.

With Kilkenny Castle right on the doorstep and the cobbled medieval streets and laneways of the Marble City just around the corner, the city’s main shopping areas, vibrant night life venues, theatres, and an endless list of cultural and visitor attractions are just waiting to be explored. In addition, recent refurbishment has seen the guest experience reach even greater heights, and upgrades include the opening of an exciting new restaurant, cocktail bar and late lounge, Harpers.

THE PRIZE: One luck winner will enjoy a midweek break for two at Kilkenny Hibernian Hotel, including a dinner and Prosecco in the wonderful new Harpers restaurant. To enter, simply email your answers to gorail@hotpress.com. Please include your contact details, and let us know on which train route or at which station you picked up your copy of Go Rail.

THE QUESTIONS: 01. Kilkenny’s hurlers are known by which nickname? - The Dogs - The Cats - The Blackbirds

02. Which rising Irish talent earned a Best Director nomination at this year’s Oscars for Room?

03. Which late music legend scored a posthumous No. 1 album this year with Blackstar?

- Lenny Abrahamson - Jim Sheridan - Neil Jordan

- Freddie Mercury - Elvis Presley - David Bowie

Iarnród Éireann are also offering 5 runners-up prizes of 5 pairs of InterCity tickets Terms & Conditions: The prizes are valid for one year, and subject to availability. No cash alternatives will be offered. Entrants must be aged 18+. Go Rail may contact competition entrants with details of future special offers. Your details won’t be passed on to any third party. Please specify in your email if you would like to opt out of this.