Connect Magazine_November 2018-Issue 53

- Festive Party Suggestions The lifestyle magazine for Kerry

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NOVEMBER 2018

michael

healy-rae Time to Talk

Deirdre O’Kane

Wins Maureen O'Hara Award at Kerry Film Festival FREE MONTHLY MAGAZINE ....Made in Kerry, for Kerry

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EDITOR NOTE

WHY TAKE SUPPLEMENTS? Most surveys of eating habits conducted since the 1990’s show that even people who claim to eat a good balanced diet may still fall short of optimum levels of essential vitamins and minerals.

Hi Everyone, Welcome to this month’s issue where we chat with Deirdre O'Kane on her recent trip to Kerry to collect the Maureen O'Hara award at the Kerry Film Festival. She tells us how she got to where she is today and talks life, family and work.

Michael Healy-Rae has just launched his new book and its definitely worth having on the bookshelf this Christmas, he tells us the reason the book came into being.

As we edge closer to Christmas we have a look around to see what’s happening In the party scene and we have some great tips on gifts in the first of our two part Christmas gift guides, lots more to come next month….

We have included some more pictures from our recent Hospitality Awards and of course it has been graduation in Tralee since the last issue so we feature some of the many who graduated. Congratulations to one and all and of course to all at IT Tralee for a spectacular day.

I just want to take five minutes of your time to remind you to shop local this Christmas, yes its lovely to take a trip away to see other counties and maybe other countries as we all prepare for a little festive retail therapy but do spend money on gifts locally too and support those that support you, so before the madness of rushing round the shops begins take some time out and enjoy your favourite read.

Until next month,

Mags x Editor: Margaret Kissane Design: Laura Hartnett Design Print: Kingdom Printers Photography: John Walsh Photography 066 7123777 Email: info@johnwalsh.ie | www.johnwalsh.ie Contributors: Marcas Mac Domhnaill, John Canty, Ken Tobin, Marisa Reidy, Caroline McEnery Caroline Smith, Zoe O Connor, Catherine Keane, Mary Lucey, Eileen Lane, Lisa Curran.

Beauty Editor: Romy Birdthistle For Advertising Enquiries: Margaret: 086 2408237 sales@connectpublications.ie For Editorial Enquiries: info@connectpublications.ie Website: www.connectpublications.ie

Why, you may wonder does a good diet not contain all the vitamin and minerals we need for health?

Studies show us that nutrient levels in food are falling. Refining food [turning brown into white] also strips away valuable nutrients. Poor intake of nutrients may have a negative effect on your overall heath, also sluggish digestion leads to poor absorption of essential vitamins and minerals from our food.

Most people put up with feeling “all right” and may be more prone to regular colds, have low energy, poor digestion, low moods and much more.

Ensure your diet is as rich in nutrients as possible. This along with increased intake of certain vitamin and minerals can boost immunity, increase energy and promote a healthy life.

SOME OF THE SUPPLEMENTS TO CONSIDER INCLUDE: ONE NUTRITION POWER GREENS: available in powder or capsule form. This super food will help ensure you get your daily intake of all your essential vitamins and minerals. Helps with improved energy levels, strengthens immune system, better digestion and visibly improved Hair, skin and Nails.

A GOOD QUALITY MULTIVITAMIN: it is important to ensure you choose a multivitamin which suits your specific needs., e.g if stress is an issue for you, get a multi vitamin high in B vitamins.

It is always a good idea to buy your supplements where you can get professional advice to ensure you are making the correct choice for you.

DIGESTIVE ENZYME: gut health is a huge part of our immune system so keeping it healthy and in balance is key to good health. One capsule before each meal will help ensure this.

ANTIOXIDANTS: these are nutrients that help the body from damage. While too much alcohol, smoking and poor diet harm the body, damage is also caused by everyday activities such as breathing polluted air, digesting food and fighting infection.

The good news is that the body has an inbuilt repair system but needs particular nutrients such as Vitamin A, C, E, Co-Enzyme Q10 and Betacarotene to help eliminate toxins. As always we are available to advise you on which supplement suits your requirements best.

Remember to take a good quality PROBIOTIC such as BIOKULT OR OPTIBAC regularly, this helps maintain your healthy gut bacteria and ensures your are absorbing your nutrients for optimal health.

Until next time, stay healthy.

Deirdre x

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deirdre o'kane

Wins Maureen O'Hara Award at Kerry Film Festival

By Marisa Reidy She’s one of Ireland’s best known and best loved comedians, has a stellar TV and film portfolio and just last month Deidre O’Kane was honoured for her amazing contribution to the industry when she was awarded the prestigious Maureen O’Hara Award at the 2018 Kerry Film Festival.

Speaking to CONNECT after receiving the award at a special ceremony in Killarney, Deirdre said that she was absolutely honoured with the accolade.

When presenting the 2018 IFTA Awards, Deirdre paid tribute to O’Hara in a widely acclaimed opening monologue, so this award was extra special for her she says.

“It was just fabulous to be recognised like that and what made it really amazing was that it was in Maureen O’Hara’s name – a woman I deeply admire,” Deirdre said.

“I spoke a lot about Maureen in my IFTA speech and it was great to be able to quote her in reference to the Me Too Movement.

She was someone who spoke out about this issue 75 years before anything happened, so it was a real honour to receive an award in her name.”

While she’s now one of Ireland’s most famous female comedians, Deirdre admits that a career in comedy was never on her radar, having spent 10 years as a stage and screen actress before ever venturing into the world of stand-up.

It was a ‘tag-along’ trip to the Kilkenny Cat Laughs festival with her husband Stephen over 20 years ago that set the juices flowing, she explained.

“Comedy never entered my head. I always wanted to be an actress and had been doing that for 10 years, but on one occasion my husband was making a documentary about the festival and I tagged along,” she explained. “I happened to have an access-all-areas pass and it was the first time I watched stand-up and I remember being absolutely gobsmacked.

“I spent four days watching the comedians and remember being taken aback that there were 45 men on the bill and three women. Now, that wasn’t the reason I decided to give it a go, but I came away from there and decided to start writing comedy and the following year I was back performing at the festival.”

As expected, her transition into stand-up came with many highs and lows, but she credits her husband’s rather unconventional ‘encouragement’ with keeping her in the game.

Deirdre O'Kane was presented with the 'Maureen O'Hara Award' as part of The Kerry Film Festival, pictured with her director husband Stephen Bradley.

Photograph by Sally MacMonagle.

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“When you’re doing standup, you have to fail, that’s just the way it is. There’s no comedian out there who hasn’t had a bad gig,” she said. “But my husband is definitely the reason I stayed going, despite the tension headaches I had every time I was getting ready to go on stage.

He just told me ‘well you’re not dying out there’ - so that was that.

“Maybe if I had a nicer husband, he would have said ‘why are you putting yourself through that’, she joked, ‘but overall the jokes were working and I was getting paid, and let’s be honest, I needed to supplement my income as an actress.”

Deirdre is currently on tour with her latest comedy show ‘A Line of O’Kane’ – with a show in Tralee’s Siamsa Tíre in early Spring next year – which she explained takes audiences through her Dancing with the Stars experience, as well as poking fun at turning 50 and the challenges of having a teenage daughter.

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so, so we had to persuade her. But we did - and she was very, very happy with the finished product which is still one of the top recommend films on Amazon.”

“It’s been going really well and even those who never saw me on Dancing With The Stars and didn’t know the story seem to be really enjoying it,” she said.

Having just been honoured at the Kerry Film Festival for her incredible contribution to TV and film, the conversation turned to the state of the industry here in Ireland. Deirdre feels that it is a very exciting time for Irish film and TV and says she is delighted to be part of it.

Asked about that very experience of taking on the very difficult challenge of dancing live on TV week in week out, Deirdre described it as ‘extraordinary.’

She admits, though, that she was more than reluctant to sign up!

Facing her 50th birthday and having little or no dancing experience, Deirdre’s initial reaction to taking part in the show was a definite no – but having thought more about it she decided that ‘the no option is so dull and boring’ and went for it.

“Irish film and television is very strong right now and has been building very strongly over the past 20 years,” she said.

“There are so many amazing Irish actors out there right now, I couldn’t possibly name my favourites, and we have some amazing crews and technical people so the industry is really growing and it’s nice to be part of it, ya.”

“I laughed at the idea first and was like ‘no thanks, you’re grand’ because I felt I was too old, but I was talking to a friend one day and she was telling me it’s only dancing and I‘ll be learning a new skill and that’s kind of what happened,” she said. “It was absolutely the most extraordinary thing I’ve ever done and the most gruelling ball I’ve ever had in my life. It was an amazing experience and I was so grateful to discover that I was as tough as I was, pushing 50.

Asked how she liked to spend her down time with husband Stephen and 13-year old daughter Holly, Deirdre proved that she’s a woman after our own hearts!

“My down time is not leaving the house,” she laughed. “I’m away a lot touring so if I have time off at home you couldn’t get me out for love nor money. Give me the X Factor and Strictly on the TV on a Saturday night and I’m happy.”

“I was older than the other two finalists put together,” she joked ‘but I was able to keep up with them, and I was really proud of that.”

Speaking of being proud, Deirdre says that portraying renowned humanitarian Christina Noble in the film Noble still stands out as one of her greatest career achievements. She won an IFTA for her role in the film, which was written, produced and directed by her husband Stephen.

“That film was very special and very personal and something I am really proud of “ Deirdre said, explaining that it was again her husband who pushed her to pursue the project.

“I had read a lot of Christina’s books and was very taken with her work and for a while Stephen had been pushing me to find a project for myself,” Deirdre told CONNECT. “He asked me what it was that I wanted to do for myself and it was that – to make a film about Christina Noble – and it went from there really.”

Deirdre said that it took her quite some time to convince Christina to agree to the film, as she had been approached several times before about making a film of her life, so to get her on board was a massive achievement.

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When the conversation turned to regrets, and if she had any – professionally or otherwise - Deirdre offered a wonderful insight into her way of thinking; advice we could all do well to follow.

“I don’t do regrets. It’s just not a good idea,” she said. “My mantra is ‘keep going.’ While the temptation to do less and stop can be unbelievable at times, just keep going I say.”

• Deirdre will perform her latest comedy show ‘A Line of O’Kane’ at Tralee’s Siamsa Tíre in early Spring, keep an eye out for details.

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It’s that time of the year where we choose somewhere for the staff to get together and have a good night out, so to make life a little easier we have a selection of what’s on offer around the county for this year’s Christmas celebrations for you and your colleagues. There are many different options for the Christmas party night so put it to a vote and decide what best suits your crew preparing for a good night out.

Traditional Christmas at Meadowlands Hotel Stay, Dine & Party in Style at the Meadowlands Hotel this Festive Season.

The Meadowlands is celebrating 20 years in Irish Hospitality and looking forward to hosting Traditional Christmas Parties.

The chefs have prepared delicious Christmas menus from €25.00pp for dinner parties in the cosy atmosphere of An Móinéar Restaurant. The restaurant caters for intimate dining for two guests to parties up to 100 guests. For a more casual Christmas party option, Meadowlands has festive finger food options from €10.00pp in Johnny Frank’s Bar & Lounge. For parties over 80 guests, enjoy a winter wonderland party package in An Meitheal Ballroom. From intimate gatherings to larger events with family, friends and colleagues, the Meadowlands has the perfect venue for you.

Entertainment has been arranged on all Friday & Saturday nights throughout the festive season. Park and stay with special accommodation party rates from €37pps for bed & breakfast.

Meadowlands Hotel is offering memories all wrapped up with Meadowlands Vouchers to suit all budgets. Give an experience to remember this Christmas with a voucher that can be used for accommodation, food and beverages.

For more information, please contact our event team on 066 718 0444 or events@meadowlandshotel.com.

The Heights Hotel, Killarney The festive season in nearly upon us which means it's time to start planning your Christmas Party! At The Heights Hotel, we've got you covered. Whether you're organising a cosy & intimate gathering with a few of your close friends or you're in charge of planning a big work do, we are the ideal celebratory venue to host your festive party with an array of menu's and packages which can be tailored to suit your requirements. Alternatively you can take the stress out of planning and join us for our Christmas Party Night on December 15th where our events team have planned the

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evening for you. The party starts at 6:30 with a festive drinks receptions followed by a four course meal. You and your guests can then celebrate into the early hours with The Boogie Men Band & DJ and a late night bar. For more information or to book your tickets for the Christmas Party Night, contact our events team on T: 064 663 1158 E: events@killarneyheights.ie The West End The West End, Fenit recently awarded best family business and best bar food experience this family run establishment is a jewel, with menus created to suit individual tastes from the mouth-watering ingredients locally sourced for the kitchen you are going to be jingling bells all night long.

T: 066 7136256. E: hello@westendfenit.ie The Station House The Station House is now under new management, Finbarr and the team have a fantastic menu for you and for those who just want something a little more informal they cater for that too with delicious finger licking finger food.

Live music is also on the menu on December 16th and 22nd so all in all it’s definitely food for thought call 066 7117517 The Oyster Tavern This family run award winning business is a great spot for the annual Christmas night out, delicious seafood, steaks and lots more and you can be guaranteed a fun night into the bargain.

Jim who recently won publican of the year will entertain you and ensure your Christmas bash is one to remember.

Croi Croi in the square Tralee has something for everyone, with a warm and friendly welcome and fine wines to accompany any choice croi will cater for parties from 2 up so it’s the ideal choice this Christmas.

T: 066 7185583. E: croirestautant@gmail.com

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The Rose Hotel Kick start your Christmas celebrations at The Rose Hotel with a Christmas party to remember this December.

Festivities kick off with a mulled wine welcome reception and music in the hotel lobby followed by a red-carpet welcome and a glass of prosecco on arrival at the Lee Suite.

Enjoy a delicious 4 course seasonal menu followed by dancing to our live band and DJ. We have two Saturday nights to choose from: 8th December with music by Celebration or 15th December with music by The John Connolly Band. To book your Christmas party night or for further information call Shona today 066 7199100 or email sales@therosehotel.com.

Sol y Sombra Tapas Bar and Restaurant A unique Christmas Party venue for companies big or small. With a fabulous entertainment line-up and a choice of the Christmas Dinner Menu or a Christmas Tapas Menu, there really is something for everyone. Sol y Sombra is very excited for the return of the Christmas Mojito, fun party games and great music, and look forward to celebrating with you this Christmas season.

The Ashe Hotel This festive season, join us as we celebrate this most wonderful time of year!

The Ashe Hotel offers the ideal venue in which to meet up with friends, family, colleagues and soak up some Christmas warmth and cheer.

With two Christmas party nights on Saturday 8 December and Friday 14 December, gather with colleagues or friends and enjoy a warming mulled wine reception followed by a delicious Christmas menu with music from Phil n the Blanks and DJ till late!

Alternatively book into Alfies Lounge and relax in a more intimate setting, again lots of fabulous cocktails or refreshments on offer and a custom designed Christmas menu.

Make sure you don't miss a chance to pop in and chill out this Christmas season at The Ashe Hotel, Tralee.

For further information on our Christmas brochure or to make a booking, just call us on 066 710 6300 or email info@theashehotel.ie

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Festive Occasion Dining at Ballygarry House During the Christmas season, Ballygarry House will be transformed into a winter wonderland, surrounded by rich red, gold trimmings and a beautiful lavishly decorated Christmas tree in the centre of the foyer to invite enchantment.

The festive season ignites the warm fires, the scent of warm mulled wine and halls decked with boughs of holly and twinkling lights.

We would like to invite you to celebrate your Christmas Party at Ballygarry House with a selection of specially created Afternoon Tea, Festive Lunch and Dinner menu options available.

Restaurant 58 at Ballygarry House is an elegant dining venue seating up to 110 guests. The newly refurbished restaurant is classical in style with a contemporary twist. The intimate booths, warm wood panelling and mahogany flooring all coupled with bespoke touches including coiffured ceilings create an inviting space for a festive dining experience.

To discuss your Christmas Party dining options, contact us for more information on 066 712 3322 or email info@ballygarryhouse.com or www.ballygarryhouse.com Charlies Bar and Bistro, Strand Road, Tralee Fun, festive frolics and fine food are the order of the day at Charlies bar and bistro this season, so whatever your choice of party they can cater for you. Drinks and finger food with your colleagues, full dinner menu or maybe you just have time to have an office lunch, at Charlies bar they can accommodate all requests, with live entertainment every weekend you are guaranteed to welcome in the festive season with plenty of cheer, and you never know you might run into some of Kerry’s finest footballers past and present to party the night away with. Gift vouchers also available for that perfect gift, call Mike or John today to reserve your table 066 7124956

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michael healy-rae Time to Talk

By Marisa Reidy EVER since Michael Healy-Rae was thrust into the public arena in the late 90's, first as a Kerry County Councillor and then as a TD, he has put up with more than his fair share of scrutiny.Some justified, some just damn right insulting – but the popular Kilgarvan politician says that although he has learned to shrug off the personal attacks, he will not back away from unwarranted and unjustified abuse.

Michael was speaking to CONNECT ahead of the launch of his new book "Time to Talk" on October 30th, when he recalled one particular moment when he decided ‘enough is enough’ “I opened a newspaper one morning and the headline read ‘The Healy Rae Pigs’, he recalls. “When I started out in politics first I put up with a lot of that rubbish, but this was unacceptable. So I called the national journalist in question into my office a few days after and sat him in front of me. I said ‘you have two young children at home – how would you like if I called them pigs’. I told him he wasn’t leaving the room until he answered me. He listened to me and to be honest he got a bad fright, but that was the rubbish you had to deal with,” he said.

“It was popular at the time, and still is unfortunately, for people to call me stupid and a gombeen and all that stuff, and that’s fine if they want to say that - but for a journalist to write that stuff it simply isn’t fair. Let’s put it this way, I wouldn’t want to be going around with an inferiority complex or I wouldn’t raise my head at all.”

The story of Michael’s rise to political fame is a well told one, but he still remembers with laughter the exact moment when he realised his calling – and how he was the last one to know about it!

When Michael was in national school he would always go to by-elections with his father, Jackie Healy Rae – excursions that often took up to three weeks and which he utterly loved. The novelty of being on the road with his father and comrades Maurice Galvin and Pats Guerin; spending nights in hotel rooms and doing the campaign ‘donkey work’ still brings a smile to his face.

As he got older, although he was working full time himself in his machinery business, he became his father’s director of elections and was responsible for organising his clinics – and even running them when his father was unavailable.

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Despite all that, entering the political fray never really entered his head – until 1997, when his father was elected to the Dáil and he was told he didn’t have a choice!

“One night, I was driving in the car with him and a man called Joe Riney and Joe turned around and said I’d have to run in the next council elections for my father’s seat,” he said.

“I’ll never forget his words, he said: ‘If you don’t run , what are you going to do? – put us back voting for the people we had to vote for before your father?’. We didn’t say much in the car after that but I remember speaking to my father about it when we got home and he more or less told me I’d no choice in the world, I had to run for the council.”

Despite facing the challenge of running in the Killorglin Electoral Aea – when his native Kilgarvan was part of the Killarney voting area - he was elected, albeit barely!

From there, Michael of course progressed to Dáil Éireann when his father announced in 2011 that he was simply too tired to run again.

“We had a long discussion about it and I tried to convince him to run just one more time, but he was just too old and too tired. So we had a convention and our own supporters came and proposed that I be the candidate and it went from there.”

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Despite the criticism that he faces, no one can accuse Michael Healy Rae of not giving the job his all for his constituents – something which he says is his top priority.

“It’s a great honour and privilege to represent the people who voted for me and it’s hugely humbling and I treat it like a full time job. I was elected as a servant of the people, so if my phone rings I am always there to answer it because more than likely it’s someone in trouble who needs my help and that’s what I’m here for.”

While he absolutely romped home in the last General Election, Michael says he never takes voters for granted and event admits that he’s nervous about the next election “You have to remember that in the next General Election, I haven’t a single vote got yet and the trouble now is that my competitors will go around telling people not to give me their number one because ‘he’s fine’. So never before have I needed a vote because they’ll use it against me.”

Being at the end of the phone 24/7 and attending a litany of meetings and events seven days a week certainly comes at a price, however, with Michael being very open and honest about how family life has suffered because of his commitment to is job.

“If you asked me to vote for the worst father I’ve ever known, I’d nominate myself,” he says.

“I’m not proud to say this, but when it came to family events or being there with my father, watching his back on the campaign, everything else took second place. We had to change christenings because of politics and there were many family events that I wasn’t at. I’d have many regrets about somethings, naturally, but I made my choice and that’s the way it was. “ So with hardly a minute of down time to spare, one would imagine writing a book would be the last thing on Michael Healy Rae’s mind. And it was, until the people at Gill Books decided to call his bluff when he agreed to do it on his terms!

“When the good people at Gill books first came to me with the idea, I gave them my answer. I said it just wasn’t on my agenda and that I wasn’t writing a book about politics and telling my story. I didn’t want to seem ungrateful, so I came up with a plan that I thought would definitely turn them off – telling them that the only way I’d do it is if they provided a lady who would contact me between the hours of 12 midnight and 7am,” he recalls.

“As sure as God, they came back to me with a lady called Tara King who had agreed. They called my bluff.”

Describing Tara as a ‘very special kind of person’

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Michael explained that they did indeed discuss the book at ungodly hours of the morning, with the writer often calling him at 4am and finishing at 7am.

“She stuck to her word and never, ever contacted me outside of those hours,” he said. “We could spend hours on the phone on a Friday or Saturday or Sunday morning. She was a very special kind of person.”

The book, Michael explained, was prompted by his Tommy Tiernan show TV appearance when he admitted his regret at not paying more attention to a constituent who subsequently took his own life after getting off the phone with him.

“It is one of my biggest regrets, “ Michael tells Connect. “I had been dealing with this man for quite some time and he had owed the Revenue over €100,000. I managed to find out that he had been over charged and I got the bill down to about €75,000.

The night he called me, he asked if he had to pay it and I was quite matter of fact with him and said he did – that I couldn’t do anymore for him. He said no, he wasn’t paying it and hung up the phone. Two days later, I heard his death on the radio. It’s very difficult to know that my words to him that night resulted in this man’s death.”

Michael said that this story is what prompted Gill Books to make contact about writing the book – and spurned its name ‘Time to Talk’. The book which was launched on October 30th by Kieran Donaghy and is packed with tales that are sometimes humorous, sometimes poignant, sometimes heart-breaking, but always true, capturing the real heartbeat of rural Ireland.

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Recommend Gift Ideas

Give the Gift of Reading this Christmas

FOR THE CHILDREN Peter Donnelly The President’s Cat €14.99 Joanna Donnelly, illustrated

by Fuchsia MacAree – The Great Irish Weather Book €24.99 Niall Breslin (aka Bressie) – The Magic Moment €16.99

FOR THE CHEF Neven Maguire’s Home Economics for Life €22.99 Dr Paula Gilvarry Doctor on a Diet €19.99

GENERAL ENTERTAINMENT Michael Healy- Rae Time to Talk €16.99 Francis Brennan A Gentleman Abroad €14.99 Emer McLysaght and Sarah Breen The Importance of Being Aisling €14.99

FOR THE SPORTS FAN Andy Lee Fighter €22.99

FOR THE CURRENT AFFAIRS FAN David McWilliams Renaissance Nation €22.99

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Kathleen Watkins, illustrated by Margaret Anne Suggs Happy Christmas, Pigín! €16.99

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FESTIVE BODY READY

By Nora Butler

There it is in the back of the warddrobe the dress you bought the one you promised that you were going to fit into last Christmas..... the smart suit that you said you were going to wear at the Christmas party and oops you didn't manage to get into it!! We are weeks from Christmas and party season will be in full swing...in next months edition we will be looking at how you can rock the party season successfully and still have some fun...but for now we have a mission to fit into that outfit!!

Breakfast is a very important meal to kickstart your day and in Slimming World we have plenty of options.

French Toast with bacon: Grilled lean bacon served with a slice of kelkin sourdough bread dipped in a whisked egg with some vanilla essence and fried off in butter fry light. I add some fat free greek style yoghurt and some sliced strawberries too.

Cooked breakfast: Eggs cooked in low-calorie spray, grilled lean bacon, mushrooms, baked beans and 2 slices of wholemeal toast from a 400g loaf Overnight Weetabix: Crumble a weetabix into a jar or a sealable container and add fresh or frozen fruit and layer some fat free greek style yoghurt on top then repeat.

Omelette: Seperate two eggs whisk the whites and fold in the yolks and add in whatever vegetables that you like (onions, mushrooms, tomatoes etc) add to a pan sprayed with frylight.

Lunch options can be leftover dinners from the evening

beforehand. Make friends with your freezer and get your batch cooking groove on it is the only way to go if you want the weight to go!! Spending a Sunday morning batch cooking can protect your weight losses during the week...with many of us so time poor we reach for the convienent option for an easier life. If you use the time smartly it will reward you in terms of eating healthy nutritious food, it will save you time during the week, you will save money, you will feel healthier and you can lose weight! It's a win:win situation.

Things that are handy to make ahead: Egg Muffins: 3 eggs, 150g of fat free cottage cheese, veg of your choice (e.g. cherry tomatoes, mixed peppers, onions etc) and meat pieces if preferred too. I use silicone bun cases as these ensure theres a smooth transition from oven to freezer. Pop your mix into the six muffins into the oven and bake at 180 for 25 mins that way.

Curry Loaf: A tin of Heinz Curried Lentils (free on slimming world) with two eggs, a packet of Tesco Golden Savoury Rice (Free) Cook the rice as per instructions, add to the tin of lentils and two eggs, spray your loaf tin with a little fry lite add the mix to the loaf tin and bake at 180 for about 30 mins. This can be sliced into sections and frozen. A slice or two is perfect served with some chicken and a huge mixed salad.

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Soups: A quick tomato and red lentil soup, slice an onion, add in some mixed herbs, a tbsp of tomatoe puree and gently fry off, then a tin of chopped tomatoes, 300ml of veg stock and 100g of split red lentils (free). Simmer this off for about 35-40 mins.

Blitz it and take out a portion or two for your fridge and put the other two portions in the freezer for later use. It should be perfect for a month or two. Serve with 2 slices of Brennans Weight Watchers Soda Bread (Healthy B Choice). A butter pat would incur you (Syns) but can be worth it.

A bit of stodge: Slimming World Chips: Slice one or two potatoes and season with Swartz Chip Seasoning (Free) Spray your potatoes with Fry-light and place in the oven for about 2025 mins. Served with a Slimming World Beef Burger or Bean Burger (available at Iceland Stores) and a lovely big salad mix of your choice.

Heading out and about Always keep a piece of fruit or a bar (like a hifi available in SW groups) or an Alpen Light Bar in your bag that can help you to resist temptation.

If socialising avoid the creamy cocktails and stick to clear-coloured drinks like vodka and diet cola or gin and slimline tonic.

Have something waiting at home to have upon your return home to save you standing in the queue at the takeaway...this can lead you to over consuming saturated fats, foods that are calorific and have you feeling worse for the weather the day afterwards.

Nora's Slimming World Tralee,

takes place every Wednesday the Meadowland Hotel, Oakpark, Tralee.

Group times: 9:30, 11:30 3:30, 5:30 & 7:30 Call: 087-2489838 Instagram: search nora butler

Nora Butler Syn values are acquired by using the Slimming World app which comes with membership.

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What’s your favorite thing to do in your job ???

shampoo is tailored to your exact hair needs and adding pigment to brighten your Colour every time you shampoo

My utmost passion is Upstyling and don’t get me wrong I love coloring and cutting but if I up styled all week I’d be in heaven and the more intricate the better I love to get a picture and recreate.

Thinning Hair - Holland and Barrett hair burst jelly. Keep Scalp oil beside your bed and every morning and evening message into scalp to stimulate the Sebaceous gland to promote growth.

Hair Extensions - Great lengths. The best in market

Tell us your most favourite product It depends on what I’m doing *UPSTYLING Has to be back combing powders for volume & texture creating a messy wave *BLOWDRYING Heat protection when using dryers Ghd’s any heat styling hair oil / cream depending on hair type tiny pea size amount into hand rub in and comb evenly through and blowdry in love it *COLOUR OLAPLEX is the best invention ever created. Protect it before you wreck it when it’s there I don’t understand why people don’t use it.

What is a common mistake we make in hair care?

100% wrong product for your type of hair. Your shampoo and conditioner is by far the most important start. It may be cheaper on shop shelves but it it ain’t cheaper on your hair/scalp

What’s the biggest misconception about hair styles???

With all the information readily available it’s easy to believe that all styles works for all hair types which in fact it really is quite the opposite, every single client has different hair texture, face shape, personality, life style, what works for one won’t work for another and that's why I highly encourage a consultation to decide what's best for you.

What do you love about your job?

Seeing the happy faces of my clients when I have created their ideal style.

I love a transformation, I love how my clients trust me, when you sit and have a consultation and they are up for the challenge saying' do what you want Cathriona'. I get so excited when my client says this I just go for it and create the look for them.

What is the most important aspect of styling?

Your consultation... this is by far the most important part of you day. You may be the best stylist in the world but if you don’t have that sit down consultation with your client that's where it can all go wrong. A picture is brilliant but your not a magician and you need to explain to your client the process involved in the change they are looking for, how many treatments it can take to create the look they want, and what the end result will be 24 | Connect Kerry | November 2018

Why do you compete in competitions ?

Cathriona Rohan

talks All things Hair

It was bread into me, my mum was a hairdresser and dance teacher. I’m an all Ireland champion dancer and I have the worst competitive side and It is the most nerve racking experience ever, that 30 mins before you go on the floor but the joy of winning is the best feeling in world and it perfects your work and obviously it's great for the ole ego!!

like, just in case it's not exactly like the vision they had in mind, the consultation paints a Your best advice to some body clear picture so everyone is happy before the starting out in hairdressing industry?? transformation begins.

Education is key......... find a salon that What’s on you dressing table at home? offers the best education and where Shampoo for Coloured hair as I use a toner your happy, down the head, keep on my blonde and to keep brassy hair at bay driving, you are never the best, there I need to keep my toner as long as I can, I use is always somebody better and you Joico Colour endure shampoo for first few can always improve. Be humble and weeks then when my toner fades I use a violet love what your doing shampoo to neutralize the gold. Conditioner Joico k pac reconstruct is the strongest Starting you own business advice? condition and to rebuild the bonds after Colour Don’t bury yourself in debt, stick Leave in conditioner heat proctector Luster to your budget don’t jump in all lock Styling I love k-pac protect and shine guns blazing plan ahead. Research syrum I love shine especially on blond hair. everything from floors to hair dryers.

Read small print on your contract get Tips and tricks you solicitor to go over your contracts.

Shampooing - Always do 2 shampoo's ... Surround your self with positive Conditioner ears down people and staff that look out for you.

Blowdrying - For volume ... dry hair in opposite Have a good book keeper. Location direction to how it falls. is everything. Cleanliness everything.

Curly hair - Use a fixing cream, towel dry The customer is always right but don’t hair, pea size amount rub through comb to be a door mat either and believe in yourself. And at end of day business is distribute evenly and leave dry naturally business.

Fine hair - Use root volume spray a very lite Enjoy your job and the day you don’t misting spray won’t weigh down hair Frizzy hair - I never use an oil I would always review the whole situation. use a smoothing cream Colored hair copper / red / brunette Use a prescriptive shampoo where your

Cathriona xxx

Flexi Mousse €10.95

Back Combing Powder €19.25

Colour Endure Violet Shampoo Restorative Oil €20.25 €14.25

Twisted Curls €13.25

Blowdry Cream €14.25

Shine and Protect €19.25

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Tis the season…… to get your glam on!

For many the thought of the forthcoming Christmas party season from casual drinks with work colleagues to the annual office Christmas party night – can prove quite the headache. If you’re on a budget, purchasing new attire for the party season may seem overwhelming. The costs of clothing, shoes, and accessories quickly add up, and before you know it, you’ve spent a small fortune on clothing to wear to a single event. With a little bit of planning in place you don’t have to go overboard on spending. By picking simple pieces that match a variety of shoes and accessories, you can have numerous go-to party outfits at the ready.

Remember you can be stylish without bleeding your bank account dry, however I do believe on splurging if your plan is to continue wearing after the Christmas party season is over.

If you want to stand out from the crowd, go bold on the party circuit this season with a cocktail dress.

From velvet to lace to show stopping metallics and sequins the choice is yours. Besides, high street stores offer beautiful, glittery dresses that look expensive at a fraction of the cost.

These pieces may not stand up to extensive wear and tear, but since you’ll wear them infrequently, this shouldn’t be an issue.

A little black dress is a fail-safe option that, although simple, can be easily livened up. A basic black dress can also serve you well and save money, as you can easily change the entire look with seriously stand out accessories.

Investing in a pair of statement earrings guarantees to give even the most boring of ensembles a dose of glamour. Alternatively, start your party look from the feet up with a pair of embellished skyscraper heels.

Christmas parties don’t necessarily mean reaching for a dress and if high-octane isn’t your thing, that doesn’t mean you can’t go to the party. The best-dressed person at a party is rarely the most dressed-up person but making an effort from your normal work attire may be just enough to get you in the party mood. You can bypass the holdyour-tummy-in school of dressing and opt for a pair of nice black 32 | Connect Kerry | O November ctober 2018 2018

Littlewoods €80

pants or a pleated Catherine’s Fashion Fix flowy skirt adding some

By Catherine Keane sparkle with an embellished top. To complete the look this is the season to bring out your most impractical bag, glitzy jewellery or show-stopping heels. It’s a general rule that over Christmas – and in the many weeks running up to it – there’s no such thing as too much when it comes to embellishment and sparkle.

If you are looking for something a bit different this season you can always opt for a two-piece suit in satin or velvet. A two-piece is not only seriously stylish but is also an investment that will last you well beyond the festive season. Keep your eyes peeled for jewel tones and pops of red for that Christmassy feel.

Alternatively, printed trousers and easy to wear jumpsuits are totally viable and effortlessly chic easy to wear alternatives.

There are many options available to find that beautiful outfit that will last you through the holidays and beyond. Fresh onto the shop floor and online at the moment is a selection of Christmas party looks, festive jewellery and twinkling shoes that will tick the box for every social gathering this festive season.

iclothing €59.95

iclothing €64.99

River Island €53

Littlewoods €122

So what’s stopping you going to the party?

Catherine x

For all your fashion quest

ions email:info@connec

tpublications.ie

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Redness Solutions

by Breda from Clinique @CH Tralee

WHAT IS REDNESS? This time of year brings different skin concerns for people –one being redness.

The drop in temperature outside plays havoc with our skins as the temperature of our homes gets warmer.

It is this extreme of temperature difference that causes some of the problem. There are different types of redness…. Redness is skin that is occasionally red in colour or persistently red and may experience flare ups due to an irritation. Occasional redness is when the skin will look red and/or swollen sometimes itchy due to outside influences for example extreme temperatures, exercise, stress, allergens or cosmetic treatments.Most of this redness disappears in time returning if exposed to the triggers.

Persistant Redness is when the skin is very chronically red ,irritated and sometimes swollen. Persistant redness or Rosacea – which can only be diagnosed by a dermatologist – often has broken capillaries like blood vessels and can have a pustule(spot ) like appearance. Both types need to be treated with care, adopting a less is more attitude. It is always advisable to seek advise before treatment. At Clinique our guiding dermatolagists would recommend that redness is treated with gentle cleansing and very mild exfoliation. An oil free moisturiser is also advised to minimize irritation. Clinique have an excellent range to treat this concern.

CLEANSING – Redness Solutions Soothing Cleanser by Clinique €25 This is an extremely gentle cleanser suitable for reactive, sensitive skins with occasional or persistant redness and /or rosacea* It has probiotic technology which helps to build to skin barrier and help repair it. This is what helps prevent flare ups. It is also oil free so it is not irritating to the skin. There is very mild exfoliation which also helps to build the skins immunity and promote new healthy skincell turnover.

MOISTURISER Redness Solutions Daily Relief Cream

by Clinique €54.

This moisturiser is calming and comforting.

It helps to reduce the appearance of redness and blotchiness caused by broken capillaries. Also enriched with probiotics to help protect and nourish the skin.

Use twice a day for best results.

Redness Solutions Protective Base spf 15

by Clinique €26.

This is a green tinted primer that helps reduce the appearance of redness and protect skin from UV and environmental damage. This product also works over time to fight redness and treat it. It can be used on its own or as a primer for make up. Apply after Redness Cleanser and Daily Relief Cream.

Redness Solutions Instant Relief Mineral Pressed Powder by Clinique €38.50 This is a lightweight yellow powder that instantly calms red, flushed, irritated skin. Can be worn on its own or over /under make up to give a more even complection.

Redness Solutions make up spf 15 by Clinique €34 This is a moderate coverage make up the instantly neutralises and camoflages redness. It calms and sooths skin with the probiotic technology.It is suitable for the most sensitive of skins and is also protected by an SPF. If you want further advise please contact me at the Clinique counter @CH Tralee. 066 7121331 ctober 2018 34 | Connect Kerry | O November 2018

PEARLY WHITES AN DR MARCAS MAC DOMHNAILL

TMJ Disorder (Joint Pain of the Jaw) Fáilte Romhaibh.

Jaw pain related to the joints in the jaw is a frequent problem that dentists deal with.

The TMJ (temperomandibular joint) is a hinge joint in front of the ears. The disc in these joints can drift out of its correct position which can cause stiffness, pain and discomfort when eating.

A recent study in Trinity College Dublin looked at how people had to modify their diets when suffering from TMJ disorders. The fact that they cut out certain foods from their diet is often overlooked. This can lead to medical problems due to vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

TMJ disorders should be investigated fully. Many dentists offer dental splints to alleviate the discomfort associated with this disorder.

Cerezen ear devices can also be used by patients in certain circumstances to relax the jaw muscles around the joint.

Patients should seek advice at an early stage of this disorder, rather than suffering in silence.

Beir Bua. Dr. Marcas Mac Domhnaill.

BDS (NUI), DIP Cons Sed (TCD) Mac Domhnaill Dental, Denny Street, Tralee, Co. Kerry

Surviving the Winter, Part 2

Last month we looked at how light deprivation can affect your mood, and some of the ways in which you can combat that – exposure to as much natural light as possible, especially in the morning, and getting outdoors whenever you can. At this time of year, though the light is fading, we are often buoyed up by the sense of excitement generated by two things – Halloween and Christmas. Although we can decry the commercialization of the two festivals, there is an upside. A sense of communal celebration is created and a level of excitement that gives us something to look forward to, both things that can help our mood.

Beware of the post-Christmas dip, though. For many people, January and February are the most difficult months, and it does no harm to be prepared.

Try to maintain your exercise regime. Staying active has a powerful effect on your mood, and while it is tempting to stay on the sofa eating chocolate and watching telly, in the long run that creates its own problems.

Don’t overeat (too much!). While it’s normal to overindulge around Christmas, eating too much has a depressive effect, and your body will not thank you for it.

Limit your alcohol intake. The spike in depression and anxiety around Christmas is complicated, but alcohol abuse is really a big factor, and alcohol bingeing will make you feel much worse.

Stay connected. Keep up with friends and family, make time to see them, and talk. Don’t keep feelings bottled up inside. Get support when you need it, and enjoy your winter.

Caroline Smith, Psychotherapy Counselling www.carolinesmith.ie | 087 6444837

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Hi Lovely Readers, I hope ye survived all the trick and treaters and the midterm break. I need to mention in this months piece a lady who has worked next to me for almost 30 years, she has been a very important person in the Razzle Dazzle and That's Perfect Family, Happy Birthday Mary!

I wonder is it because of the unusual warm weather but Christmas doesn't seem that near; news flash it is, in fact it's just around the corner ........

Christmas shopping should not be an ordeal for anyone, but it amazes me every year the stress and anxiety that customers have in the lead up to Christmas. We have the easy solution to gift lists. Who doesn't love a scarf prices range from €6 up to €30. We have hats to fit every size and shaped head priced between €15 and €35 and finally in the Keeping yourself warm bracket the stylish gloves and they are priced at €20 per pair. Our bags are another great gift idea prices from €25 to €45 and I have yet to hear any person say "I don't want another bag" . I am well aware that Christmas is an expensive time but here at Thats Perfect we want to help so if there is anything you like and can't afford at the moment we take deposits and you can pay a little off each week so don't be stressed that's what we are there for!!!!

Call in and browse and if you need gift ideas let us help you.

Have to sign off and remember as always Keep smiling it works for me

Carmel xx Connect Kerry | November 2018 | 37

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Music in the Kingdom MEETS BUDDING YOUNG BAND CHAPTER 2

Tralee’s budding local talent is oe to be celebrated, especially their bands. If you were in town during the Rose of Tralee festival this year you most certainly heard the sound of ‘Chapter 2’ throughout the Square. They had the crowd singing along and dancing their feet off and I got the pleasure of speaking with their lead guitarist Ryan Hurst about who they are and what they are hoping to achieve as an act in the future.

CHAPTER 2 Ryan it is great to speak with you, tell us who are Chapter 2? how did the band come about? And the name of course!

Chapter 2 are the product of a college band that Michal (singer) and Aaron (Cajon) started up with a few friends from the college, called "Students 4 Hire". They basically started off playing smalls shows and college events, mainly playing covers, but through the years things started to get more "serious". There were regular gigs coming in and there were many line up changes. The name Chapter 2 is exactly how it sounds, it's a new chapter, new beginnings, new direction.As we are now, we're very happy with everything as far as our line up goes, that'd be myself (Lead guitar), Michal (Singer/Acoustic guitar), Aaron (Cajon) and Robyn (Bass).

How would you describe yer style to those who have not had the experience of hearing you live yet?

Our music is fairly eclectic, in that obviously we have very similar influences but also there's four of us, so there's bound to be differences in influences but it allows us to have a very open mind when it comes to either writing new original material or just covering other artists. As anyone that's been to any of our shows will know we like to mix it up. But again, anyone who has seen us before will tell you, we definitely bring a lot of energy to the stage. Even with the covers, we definitely breathe some new life into old songs.

What venues have ye had the pleasure of performing in and moving forward are there any venues locally and of course further afield that you would love to see yerselves in?

For the most part of the bands life we've played a lot of pub gigs, mainly around 38 | Connect Kerry | November 2018

By: Lisa Curran

the Kerry area, but also we've played shows in Cork, Dublin, Limerick... We've covered a lot of ground basically. But we've also played the likes of the INEC in Killarney. But our biggest and possibly proudest endeavour so far was Germany. So far now, we've gotten the chance to fly to Frankfurt three times in the last two years. To be a part of an annual local open air festival. We've met some really great people out there, some fantastic musicians, all of who we're proud to call friends.In the future, I would say Germany is definitely still in the cards, hopefully we'll make another return to Frankfurt. But also, we've been in touch with people about doing some shows in Berlin.

Ye were featured on the ‘other voices’ music trail recently, how was that experience and how has that helped ye on yer music performance journey? Hasd it lead to more festivals etc?

Ah yes, 'Other Voices', that was an absolute pleasure to be part of. Unfortunately as far as festivals go, we didn't get the chance to cease any opportunities. But as for our musical journey, it was an excellent opportunity to showcase our original material. And because we primarily performed our own stuff, people got a sense of what we were about. Which was nice. It definitely instilled a lot of confidence in the band, you know? We learned people enjoyed and wanted to hear our own stuff.

I know ye are concentrating on yer original material at the moment so tell me how does that process work for ye as a group? Is there a certain strategy ye use for example one person writes lyrics and someone else comes up with a melody or do ye work on songs completely individually or as a group? I think the songwriting process can scare some artists out there at the start as its so personal so hearing how others do it is encouraging.

Our songwriting process always varies, but always remains very laid back. For example, Michal (singer) could come to the band with a sort of skeleton of a song and we sort of fill in the gaps. Another method is to just jam. When you're not thinking about what you're doing and you're just "in the moment" some ideas you'd never otherwise have tend to expose themselves.

But of course it's not always such a smooth process, for example, there may be a day when not all the ideas are clear. So for me personally, because I'm big into effects and weird sounds, I'll record our rehearsal and take the recordings home and write try everything and anything as far as my parts go. Very true, songwriting varies for everyone. So it's definitely important to remain stress free. 'Serve the song' has

always been our philosophy. So if it takes days or weeks to come up with that perfect lyric or perfect melody, so be it. Letting it happen organically is key. But also, another tip we would definitely encourage is to record each session so that when you listen back to it you can be re-inspired.

Highlight of 2018 music / performance wise?

Highlights, hmm... Well definitely one that stood out for me was towards the end of the Rose of Tralee this year. We set up on the round stage in the square in Tralee. And played in to the night. Haha definitely an emotional night! In the best way possible!

What do ye hope for for 2019?

2019, well we definitely want to get back into the studio at some point. Hopefully to record our first full album. We're also looking into getting some music videos recorded. We now officially have the domain for a website, although it's not live yet, you will soon be able to find us at www.Chapter2.ie. I should also mention, we do have an E.P recorded out called 'Silly Things'. We have sold out of copies but if anyone wanted a copy they can get in touch with us on Facebook and we can order more copies or alternatively it will at some point be made available for download. And again, all the information can be found on our Facebook page.

Where can people hear/watch your work and get in contact to book you for events etc?

So at the moment, our Facebook page is primarily where you can reach us. And find out about what's going on, that's at band_ chapter2. But I'm constantly uploading videos for the band onto my YouTube (Ryan Hurst music) and Instagram (ryanhurst92) accounts.

SNAPCHAT: lizzieraisin INSTGRAM: lizzieraisin TWITTER: lizzieraisin FACEBOOK: Lisa Curran Soprano

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A SPECIAL DAY AT ANNUAL

GRADUATION DAY AT THE IT TRALEE Full selection of pictures are available from: John Walsh Photography T: 066 7123777 | Email: info@johnwalsh.ie | www.johnwalsh.ie

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TIME MANAGEMENT There are exactly 86,400 seconds in each day. Time management is critical in your daily/weekly life and once it is under control it can have a huge positive impact on your work-life balance. Effective time management will increase productivity and help you achieve your business/personal goals sooner rather than later.

Budget 2019:

HOSPITALITY AT A PRICE

• Planning: When planning tasks for the day/week remember do so according to priority versus tasks that you enjoy doing. Break tasks into manageable smaller tasks. These tasks should be spread out over your daily/ weekly plan. Ensure you set realistic timeframes and review it throughout your working day.

Budget 2019 offers a little for everyone, but the VAT Rate rise from 9% to 13.5% for Hospitality services makes it a negative one for Kerry and other areas very dependent on Tourism and Hospitality industries.

• Time Audit: Conducting a time audit can be useful in helping you become more efficient in the workplace. By doing this you will be able to assess if you are spending the most time on the most important clients, tasks or otherwise. This can be done by defining your tasks at the start of the week and establishing how much time you have spent on the client or task by the end of that week.

PERSONAL - Home Carers Tax Credit increased by €300 to €1,500 - Lower Rate Tax Band (20%) increased by €750 to €35,300 - Slight increases in USC rate bands

• Eliminating Bad Habits: One of the biggest time wasters can be procrastination. We all know the feeling of putting things off until later but the fact remains that these jobs must get done sooner or later. People who procrastinate may tend to spend time on other tasks which are trivial or of no consequence to pass time. In doing this they have no time to do the more challenging and important tasks. In time, this becomes a bad habit that is difficult to get out of and will affect the person's standard of work as well as his/her emotions. Make a start – just do something you have been putting off for a while.

Visualise the pleasure you would get from completing the job. It the job involves some form of creativity, do the job when you are at your most energetic. If the job is boring, do it when you are least energetic. When you have completed the job don’t forget to reward yourself!

If you require further information or advice on the above, please do not hesitate to contact us on (066)7102887.

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SUMMARY MAIN POINTS

BUSINESS - 9% Vat rate increased to 13.5% - Earned Income (Self Employed) Tax Credit increased by €200 to €1,350 - Minimum wage increase to €9.80 SOCIAL WELFARE - Increase in Social Welfare Payments by €5 and return of full Christmas Bonus EXCISE & DUTY - Duty on Cigarettes increased by 50c per packet (20) or pro rata - Betting Tax increased from 1% to 2% for Bookmakers LANDLORDS: - 100% Mortgage Interest relief HOUSING - €1.25bn for 10,000 social Housing - €60m capital expenditure towards emergency accommodation - €30m for homelessness services

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