Senior Times Magazine May / June 2014

The magazine for people who don’t act their age

SeniorTimes

I Issue 69 May M 2014 €3.95 €3 95 (£3 (£3.20) 20)

www.seniortimes.ie www seniiortimes ie

Masterful Miriam Shay Healy talks to RTE’s star all-rounder

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May/June 2014

Contents 8

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News review: Masterful Miriam: Shay Healy talks to Miriam O’Callaghan All set for summer: Mairead Robinson looks at some of the outfits in the shops Bum Deal: Shay Healy bemoans the loss of an old friend EU climate package: ‘Ambitious proposals are the standard to follow’ Advantages of enhanced annuities: Jill Kerby explains An holistic approach to living You are never too old to volunteer: Options available for volunteering Support for cancer sufferers: A profile of the ARC Centres in Dublin Jim Collier on lobbyists Cosmetics and beauty: Mairead Robinson describes some of the newer products on the market Great days out: Lorna Hogg offers suggestions for one-day excursions The Canary Islands-the link with Ireland: Eileen Casey visits Las Palmas and La Gomera We are living longer, but are we living healthier: Active Retirement Ireland share their top tips for healthy ageing Power to the people: A comparison of some of the utility options available Cotswold characters: In the latest of her literary-themed excursions, Lorna Hogg visits the Cotswolds in England The difference between Alzeimer’s and dementia: Dr Sabina Brennan explains Northern Notes: What’s happening north of the border What’s on The Arts: Maretta Dillon preview happenings in the arts over the new few months: Short story: Golf: Know your rights: Books for summer: Meeting place: Crossword Crafts:

Publishing Directors: Brian McCabe, Des Duggan Editorial Director: John Low Editor At Large: Shay Healy Consultant Editor: Jim Collier Advertising: Willie Fallon Design: www.cornerhouse.ie Contributors: Shay Healy, Lorna Hogg, Dermot Gilleece, Matthew Hughes, Maretta Dillon, Jim Collier, Mairead Robinson, Eileen Casey,

Debbie Orme, Connie McEvoy Published by S& L Promotions Ltd., Unit 1, 15 Oxford Lane, Ranelagh, Dublin 6 Tel: +353 (01) 4969028. Fax: +353 (01) 4068229 Editorial: John@slp.ie Advertising: brian@slp.ie Follow us on Facebook and Twitter

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News...

Active Retirement warns Government water standing charge will ‘disproportionately affect older adults’ Active Retirement Ireland has warned Government that the water standing charge will disproportionately affect older adults and advises against targeting “most vulnerable” Active Retirement Ireland (ARI), the country’s largest community-based older people’s organisation, cautioned the Government against being seen to have once again targeted the most vulnerable sections of society when they announce details of the upcoming water charges.

The organisation calls for ability to pay to be taken into account when assess-

ing household liabilities, in order to avoid targeting the most vulnerable.

Maureen Kavanagh, ARI CEO, says: “This government already has a bad track record when it comes to protecting the most vulnerable in society and the lack of clarity around the upcoming water charges is causing anxiety among older people, families with low incomes and people with special needs. We are calling on the Government to acknowledge ability to pay as a measure when calculating water charges. There is no way a widow living alone, or a family with no breadwinner, should be paying the kind of figures

Age Action concerned HIQA warnings about inadequate staffing levels at community hospital were not addressed Age Action has expressed concern at the serious understaffing at a Sligo community hospital, cited in court as a contributory factor in the assault in which a nurse taped the mouth of a resident.

A judge was recently told that the nurse at St John’s Community Hospital in Sligo had a “dangerous workload” at the time he had taped the mouth of a resident, who he said was shouting. The HSE, which runs the hospital, acknowledged that there was a staff shortage on the day in question last June, but noted that staff ratios had since been reviewed on the ward where the assault took place and recommended ratios were now in place.

However, Age Action is concerned that concerns about staffing levels at the hospital had been highlighted in a Page 2 Senior Times May/June 2014

Company specialises in ‘brain training’ products

series of HIQA inspection reports about the facility, dating back to April 2011 – more than two years before the assault occurred.

Following an inspection of the facility on April 5, 6 and 7, 2011, it warned that there were insufficient staff levels to meet the needs of residents. It called for an “immediate review” of staffing levels and the roles of care staff, in line with the dependency needs of residents to ensure appropriate levels of supervision and care for residents.

The older people’s charity is calling for HIQA and all nursing home owners to work to provide clarity around the HIQA standard relating to staffing levels.

Resources must then be provided to ensure this standard is met, and that staff are adequately supported.

Cogs the Brain Shop is a brain fitness shop focusing on products stimulate and strengthen the brain.

The shop is located on the middle floor of the St. Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre in Dublin city and online at www.cogs.ie The products range from scientifically acclaimed software and books, to fun and beneficial social games, puzzles and activities. The company believe that their products can really help the cognitive health of older people.

In recent years a convergence of new science and consumer interest has led to a proliferation of products that can be categorised under the heading “Brain Fitness”. By learning new skills and t rying different activities, people can maintain and improve their brain’s function at any age.

Older people are looking for ways to improve their longevity and wellness and that of their families. This market is beginning to be tapped into in Canada and the United States in the form of dedicated Brain Fitness stores. Cogs The Brain Shop is the first such shop in Ireland.

Cogs will be at the Active Over 50’s Show demonstrating some brain training games www.seniortimes.ie

Hearing aid repairs while you wait Customer service is our priority at bonavox That is why we provide a “while you wait” repair service* at our North Earl Street branch on a range of hearing aid makes and models (even if you didn’t buy them from us).

From re-tubing an earmould to replacing internal components, our technicians can carry out repairs at the branch lab.

Providing quality hearing healthcare since 1967.

Our professional, caring approach to understanding how hearing loss affects both you and your loved ones ensures we deliver a quality solution for your hearing needs and lifestyle.

As part of our hearing healthcare service, all customers both old and new receive many benefits including:

9 North Earl Street Dublin 1

• FREE hearing help and advice • FREE hearing checks • FREE aftercare

To discuss your hearing needs with us, call free on 1800 480 480 We are open Monday to Friday, 9.30am-5.30pm.

North Earl Street branch is also open on Sat, 10am-5pm.

Please quote ref: BX ST 02 when calling.

Unit 2.5 Dundrum Town Centre, Sandyford Road, Dublin 16

email: info@bonavox.ie www.bonavox.ie *Only available at our North Earl Street branch. Repairs can take up to one hour and you can wait in branch or call back later to pick it up. We will advise you of the repair costs involved before proceeding with any work. If we are unable to carry out the repair in branch then we will advise on the costs and timescale involved before proceeding.

We also have Clinics nationwide - call for more information

News

Sorcha Lowry of See Change with Green Ribbon Campaign Ambassadors Laura Louise Condell and Una Kavanagh

Green ribbon campaign to get Ireland talking about mental health Throughout May, hundreds of local and national events will take place as part of the Green Ribbon national calendar.

This social movement to encourage a national conversation about mental health is led by 90 partner organisations, hundreds of volunteers and an unprecedented 50 campaign ambassadors with real-life experience of mental health problems ready to share their own stories to help others and end stigma.

According to the World Health Organisation 1 in 4 people experience a mental health problem. That is: Enough to fill Croke Park 14 times over 6 times the combined population of all our universities and colleges More than the combined population of Cork, Clare, Galway, Limerick and Waterford These are the main conclusions of a recent survey on attitudes to mental health in Ireland* : Page 4 Senior Times May/June 2014

56% of Irish people would not want others to know about their mental health problems 28% would even delay seeking professional help for fear of others finding out 57% of Irish employees believe being that open about mental health in work place would have negative impact on career prospects John Saunders, director of See Change, said “You don’t have to be an expert to start talking about mental health and wearing the Green Ribbon is a simple way of standing up to the silence that breeds stigma. It is inspiring to see more than 50 ambassadors coming forward to openly talk about their own experiences of mental health problems to show than anyone can go through a tough time and recovery is possible.”

300,000 green ribbons will be distributed free of charge and nationwide at Irish Rail stations, Citizens Information centres and MABS offices during May.

How to get involved: Pick up your free Green at Irish Rail stations and Citizens Information centres.

Download the Green Ribbon online supporters pack http://greenribbon.ie/show-your-support.php Add the Green Ribbon to your Facebook profile picture http://on.fb.me/1qPw9qB or Tweet using #GreenRibbonIRL Check out one of the Green Ribbon events happening around Ireland this May http://greenribbon.ie/news-andevents Start a conversation about mental health http://greenribbon.ie/start-theconversation.php For further information visit www.greenribbon.ie * Source: See Change

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May Madness events at Titanic Belfast Titanic Belfast will highlight Northern Ireland’s part in the UK-wide Culture 24 Night At The Museums on May 16 - a special evening opening of its interactive Titanic galleries, plus dining and entertainment. Then, less than 24 hours later, the amazing BRICK CITY exhibition by independent LEGO artist Warren Elsmore launches (May 17) in Titanic Belfast’s Andrews Gallery, showing off more than 70 of the planet’s iconic buildings made from the world’s most famous bricks.

The Belfast Titanic Maritime Festival from May 24-26 will see a host of festivities take place at Titanic Belfast and Queen’s Quay, including pirates, art and crafts, zip-lining, the brilliant T13 Ramp Rage stars, a Batting Cage, Cable and Wake Boarding, a climbing frame at Titanic’s Dry Dock and Pumphouse, market stalls, entertainment and, of course, ships.

May will also be a great month to experience the Titanic Belfast galleries, and try out the new Ocean Exploration Centre or the brilliant new Discovery Tour in the world’s largest Titanic visitor attraction.

World flower show comes to Dublin The RDS will host the World Association of Flower Arrangers World Flower Show from 19th until 22nd June. This is a major floral event with participants from all 31 member countries including North and South America, South Africa, The Far East, Australia, New Zealand and from all over Europe.

Events include a flower arranger’s conference and the World Flower Show, an exhibition of flower arrangements that will be open to the public. The exhibition will showcase the beautiful and extravagant creations of flower arrangers from all over the world and the RDS is expected to attract thousands of visitors per day.

The World Flower Show is a triennial event and 2014 is the first time Ireland has been invited to host the show.

Throughout the show creativity and innovation from floral artists will be to the fore while Irish and International floral demonstrators and lecturers will take visitors on magical tours.

There will be organised tours of the gardens and scenery of Dublin and the surrounding counties and everything culminates in a gala banquet on the final evening Tickets are available from Ticketmaster or are on sale at the RDS during the Show.Visit www.wafaireland.com

KBC great music in Irish Houses

Ireland’s longest-running chamber music festival returns for 2014 with 12 performances by internationally acclaimed artists from home and abroad. The season will also include the Irish début of renowned American pianist, Richard Goode.

KBC Great Music in Irish Houses will take place from 10th – 15th June in unique and venues across Dublin, Wicklow and Kildare including, for the first time, The www.seniortimes.ie

National Botanic Gardens as well as Smock Alley Theatre, The Chapel Royal at Dublin Castle and The Little Museum of Dublin. Richard Goode, hailed for the tremendous emotional power of his music-making, will perform at the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland on June 11th. Having celebrated his 70th birthday last year, this master pianist continues to perform at the highest levels across Europe and the US where he has a large and devoted following.

Highlights of this year’s festival include a much-anticipated opening night performance from violinist Arabella Steinbacher, who will be partnered by pianist Robert Kulek in surrounds of Killruddery House’s Orangery (June 10th). Steinbacher has been one of the world’s leading violinists since she burst onto the musical scene as a young prodigy. The music of Mozart and Brahms will be performed at the National Botanic Gardens on June 13th

by Spanish string quartet, Cuarteto Casals A special feature of this year’s festival will be The Dublin Musical Saunter, a day-long series of concerts in old Dublin, celebrating the rich heritage of classical music composed in Ireland by Irish and international composers.

All concerts are in venues within easy walking distance of each other and include performances from such musical luminaries as sopranos Lynda Lee and Anna Devin; flautist William Dowdall; harpist Andreja Maliř and pianist Michael McHale.

Tickets are priced from €10 to €50 and include a free concert on Sunday, 15th June. Tickets are available from the National Concert Hall Box Office www.nch.ie and by telephone on 01 417 0000.

Varied programme at the NCH this summer The National Concert Hall’s summertime programme has been growing over the past few years with some very interesting additions to its summer schedule.

This summer the NCH will see Bryan Ferry with Strings make a welcome return to the stage, the Buena Vista

Social Club say farewell to Irish Audiences in their last ever tour, there will be a celebration of Bill Whelan’s works with James Galway and the National Symphony Orchestra, and John O’Connor playing Beethoven.. Their summer lunchtime concerts will make a return throughout June, July and August as well.

The National Concert Hall also has a membership programme and Friends Members of the National Concert Hall organise visitsa to various places of interest. Amongst their summer schedule are trips to Nicholas Mosse pottery, Altamont Gardens and the Curragh Races as well as their Annual fundraising Afternoon Tea and recital with Cara O Sullivan on May 13th.

For further info call 014170000, check out www.nch.ie or call into the National Concert Hall, Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2.

Retirement research project seeking help Do you intend to retire within the next ten years? If you do then Stephen Fitzgerald needs your help. Stephen Fitzgerald is currently carrying out doctoral research which is investigating retirement and wellbeing among older workers.

The research is interested in the type of strategies individuals pursue to achieve happiness and good health in retirement.

It will look at the consequences of pursuing strategies that are not necessarily in line with our natural approach to pursuing goals, which is known as our ‘regulatory focus’.

This study is being carried out as part of the Doctoral Research Programme at Dublin City University Business School under the supervision of Dr Finian Buckley.

The survey is made up of four main parts and each part should take no longer than six minutes to complete.

If you would like to take part in this valuable research visit on the link below. https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/RFa ndRetirementStrategies Senior Times May/June 2014 Page 5

News

Positive results for new varicose vein treatment Chronic venous disorders of the legs are among the most common conditions affecting people. Varicose veins affect one out of two people age 50 and older.

Divis Ridge Trail opens up spectacular skyline views over Belfast A new walking trail, set high above the City of Belfast in Northern Ireland, has just opened. The 4.2 mile circular Divis Ridge trail is located in the Belfast Hills and offers spectacular skyline views over Belfast. Other views from the viewpoint include the Mourne Mountains, Scotland and the Isle of Man. Divis at an elevation of 478m (1,568ft.) is the highest point in the Belfast Hills which tower over the north west of the city. Although situated high in the Belfast Hills many local people and tourists will be able to enjoy walking the 4.2 mile circular Ridge Trail due to its relatively flat paths on tarmac, boardwalk and stone pitched gravel. More serious walkers can walk a loop walk which combines the Ridge Trail and Summit Trail (8.1km) which includes the summit of Divis and affords views to The Sperrins and North West Ireland.

The land which was once the site of an army barracks was left untouched leading to the landscape which can be seen today. The expansive 2,000 acre mosaic of upland heath and blanket bog is home to a wealth of archaeological remains and wildlife.

Alan Clarke, Chief Executive of Northern Ireland Tourist Board, believes the development of these trails opens up some fantastic opportunities for tourism in Belfast. He explained, “Divis is one of Belfast’s hidden gems, offering uninterrupted views over the city and beyond. Due to its history, Divis has remained less explored than other areas of the Belfast Hills and has great untapped potential for tourism. We anticipate a significant increase in the visitor numbers from the domestic and out-of-state city visitors as well as domestic tourists.”

Divis and the Black mountain have strong cultural heritage, most recently providing the backdrop to several films including ‘Dracula’ and Academy Award winning short film ‘The Shore’.

“The highlight of the walk, for me, is the fact that you are walking in the open countryside and, as you crown Black Mountain, only then can you see Belfast as it opens up below you.” Dermot McCann, National Trust Warden, reflecting on the Ridge Trail.

The project, funded by the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB), the Lagan Rural Partnership (DARD) and the National Trust, represents an investment of £459,700. Details of the Ridge Trail along with the Belfast Online Guide to Walking can be found on WalkNI.com.

For further information on walking in Northern Ireland visit www.discovernorthernireland.com/walking or Callsave 1850 230 230.

Page 6 Senior Times May/June 2014

Varicose veins are very common in Ireland with approximately 1 in 2 women and 1 in 3 men suffering from this painful and unsightly condition. Varicose veins can, if left unchecked, cause significant problems, such as the development of skin damage and leg ulcers. Many people are at a loss to know what to do. Traditional treatments such as vein stripping are still performed in as much as 40% of cases in Ireland. Vein stripping is done under general anaesthetic while Laser or RF ablation requires multiple injections of local anaesthetic along the length of the leg. Vein stripping requires down time of up to 6 weeks with patients having to wear compression stockings and is a very painful procedure. Laser or radio frequency ablation is less invasive but still requires multiple injections of local anaesthetic along the length of the affected veins.

Intense heat is applied via a laser or radio frequency catheter inserted into the affected vein, which in effect damages the inner surface of the vein creating an occlusion that close off the vein. Post treatment patients have to wear compression stockings.

However there is a new treatment now launched in Ireland which is getting great feedback and response from patients called the Venaseal closure system.

Heralded as the next generation in varicose vein care, patients see a greatly improved post treatment outcome with significant benefits, such as no downtime, no compression stockings, only 1 local anaesthetic required, and immediate results. You can walk out back to work and normal activities immediately.

The Venaseal treatment, now available from Irish vascular surgeons nationwide, is the new effective, alternative approach using a specially developed safe-for-the-body medical adhesive gel which is inserted into the vein through a tiny tube. This treatment is minimally invasive and requires only 1 local anaesthetic.

The gel is applied through the tiny tube to the vein walls where it seals the vein closed quickly and effectively.

The Venaseal closure system was designed and developed by the American medical devices company Sapheon Inc. which is headquartered in the research triangle, in Raleigh, North Carolina. Its subsidiary Sapheon B.V. which manages all of its European operations have offices and contract manufacturing operations in Galway and Roscommon where the system is manufactured, sterilised and distributed. Venaseal was launched last year in the UK where patients and surgeons are also noting the vastly improved benefits of this treatment over traditional vein stripping and RF or Laser heat treatments.

Said Sean O'Neill, vascular surgeon, Blackrock Clinic, Dublin: "Using the Venaseal medical adhesive gel, allows me to quickly and effectively close off the affected veins, with no down time. Patients can head back to work the same day, travel on holiday and bare their legs again.”

Vascular surgeons who offer the Venaseal procedure treatment are listed on www.venaseal.com www.seniortimes.ie

How’s your Hea aring g? t t t t t

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Whatever Miriam O’Callaghan’s RTE salary amounts to, she deserves every penny of it. She is a beacon in a sea of darkness. Six feet tall, blonde (sometimes) and beautiful, she uses her height with discretion and her good looks prudently. You can see peoples eyes following her as she strides with insouciance towards the Prime Time office.

She is the epitome of modern celebrity, great clothes, sharp haircut. But it would be wrong to label Miriam a celebrity. She thinks of herself as a ‘journalist’ who performs to the highest standards. She’s not going to be caught slouching around Lillies Bordello, slurping champagne with rock stars half her age.

Masterful Miriam Shay Healy caught up Miriam O’Callaghan recently in RTE

Ireland is a celebrity. Anyway, I don’t know what celebrity is, so I can’t really answer your question.”

“I can’t remember the last time I went to an opening of anything. I work a lot at night, so on Saturday night , as a rule of thumb, I go out with my husband, or with friends, or maybe the kids will come with us. You’ll never see me at an opening, unless its for a good charity.”

Miriam refuses to get sucked into the fake tan, big dress, silly one-upmanship that goes on as the Z listers prance down the red carpet. Miriam has other fish to fry and politicians to grill, but she has to curb her enthusiastic instinct to jump into the debate.

In the beginning, a large dollop of punters perceived Miriam as someone who came to prominence on the strength of her good looks and her abilty to flutter her eyelids. Nothing could be further from the truth.“I got here the hard way. I traipsed up and down South Armagh and Belfast for fifteen years for the BBC. I consider myself a journalist.

Look, we live in Ireland, a teeny-weeney country, where everyone knows everything about everyone else. How can you be a celebrity? I don’t think anybody in

“As a current affairs presenter, we’re not allowed have political opinions. But that’s okay because I’ve never voted for a party in my life. My mother is a Fine Gaeler, die hard, ..and my father, Lord rest him, was Fianna Fail…I am an unashamed feminist. I’d vote for a woman- if she was equal to a man…and that’s the same with everything, but a woman has to be able to do it as well as

Page 8 Senior Times May/June 2014

a man. If she’s good as a man she’ll get a vote from me.”

Behind her good looks and her Bambi eyes, Miriam is tough and even though she doesn’t intend to, she could intimidate people. Or could she?

“I’m not intimidated by anyone and I don’t intimidate anyone.

You have to ask the hard question and you’re thinking inside Oh my God..but that’s your job, to ask hard questions. I remember I had Michael Noonan in one night during some government crisis and my friends said they were crouching down behind the couch at home at the stuff I was asking him. The hard questions still have to be asked and you’re wasting your time in current affairs if you’re not prepared to ask them.”

Miriam’s advent into light entertainment came as a big surprise to everyone including herself She was just going about her current affair duties when www.seniortimes.ie

fate stepped in. In the afterglow of Prime Time, she had been auditioning unconsciously in front of people who were to shape her destiny. “ Some nights the Prime Time team and guests, would have a few drinks in the Green Room after the show and chatting and when I loosened up, I’d start asking people personal questions and details of their lives. Some of my friends became my bosses and said what about this other side of you that nobody sees outside of the Green Room.

Saturday night with Miriam was featherweight television, when it began. The set was safe. The guests were safe. It was too brightly lit. It was too innocuous. In spite of the pundits, the show was an instant success with its audience and Miriam had arrrrived in showbiz.

More recently her “Sunday Morning with Miriam” radio show has won her another substantial audience and when she sat in for John Murray for a couple of weeks, she instinctively hit the right note and sounded totally relaxed.

Miriam famously has eight children, four boys and four girls, none of whom are showing any interest in following in the footsteps of mother. All they worry about is whether Miriam is tipsy enough to want to sing or not. “We were in a pub in Dingle and I heard the kids say “Oh no, Mom is going to sing! They have zero interest in my career. Funny things happen when I bring my eight ear old out with me. He can’t get his head around people talking to me. He’ll ask ‘how do you know that man Mom and of course I don’t.”

Back at home, mother love flows from Miriam to both her family and the domestic environment they inhabit. She has the admiration of a lot of women in the way that she manages to juggle her working career and her domestic life in such balanced fashion. Being without ego is a good place to start from and Miriam’s lack of ego is a breath of fresh air.

“When I’m home I do all the cooking, I clean the bathrooms…in fact I’m pretty good at cleaning bathrooms.”

Several years ago, Miriam’s younger sister Anne died. It was heartbreaking for Miriam and she has divided her life into two segment, before Anne died and after Anne died. The loss of her sister still weighs heavily on her, to the point that she is going to try and remain stress-free as best she can.

“I don’t take myself so seriously anymore. As long as you have your health and your family, everything is okay and I appreciate my life, every day.

Miriam’s day entails everything from picking up the kids from sports to ballyragging Eamonn Gilmore on Prime Time, to preparing her briefs for her Sunday morning show. This kind of schedule could drive a saint to distraction, but apart from job satisfaction, the warmth of her own home is what pleases the tall, blonde Amazon of current affairs, the most.

“I feel very happy at home, watching television and drinking a glass of red wine.”

Page 10 Senior Times May/June 2014

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White Linen Blouse Black Straight Leg Trousers Ankle Strap Wedges

Shop online at dunnesstores.com

€30 €20 €20

Fashion and style

All set for summer!

Mairead Robinson reports on the Spring/Summer collections from our most celebrated retailers

There is great potential for matching different items from the Dunnes summer collection: several looks from the casual to the more dressy.

From white linen trousers at €30; floral tops and white linen blouses also €30 stunning floral dresses at €50 and €60

From the stylish Jacques Vert collection at Clerys: coat €249, trousers, €119 and lace top €99

Welcome to our Style Special edition of Senior Times where we celebrate all that is good in Irish fashion and look at the choices we now have in how we dress for both formal and casual events for the months ahead. With all the Spring and Summer 2014 collections unveiled and available in the shops and boutiques across the country, there is now a huge range of styles to suit every shape and every budget. There was a time not so long ago when a woman over forty could no longer wear trousers and on anyone over thirty, long hair made you ‘mutton dressed as lamb’. There were rules that left you in no doubt what was right and what was wrong. Disobey the ‘fashion fascists’ at your peril! Thankfully those days are long behind us now, and we can celebrate the elegant ‘Look of the Irish’ in style.

The recent State visit of President and Mrs Higgins to Britain was a great showcase for Irish designers and Sabina Higgins Page 12 Senior Times May/June 2014

made us all proud with her style and elegance and wonderful wardrobe choices. We have so many great role models now who prove that age, elegance and style are a perfect combination. I have attended quite a few fashion shows over the past number of weeks, and have been delighted to see some fabulous designs available both from Irish and overseas designers and fashion houses.

Dunnes Stores have just released their summer collection, and in keeping with the current trends of floral, pastel and monochrome, their styles are bright and summery, both comfortable and smart and extremely affordable. There is great potential for matching different items for several looks from the casual to the more dressy. From white linen trousers at €30; floral tops and white linen blouse also €30; ankle strap wedges at €20 and stunning floral dresses at €50 and €60, there is plenty here to stock your summer wardrobe with style www.seniortimes.ie

Monthly clinics in: Thurles: Sheppards opticians Cashel:KW opticians Cahir:SmithO’Mahony opticians Clonmel:Conor Fleming opticians Ennis: Murty O Connels pharmacy Charleville: Pettits pharmacy Dungarvan:Murrays pharmacy

Mallow: Weedles Pharmacy Listowel: O Connors pharmacy Killarney: O Dohertys opticians Kenmare: Mcsweeneys pharmacy Bandan:Hurleys opticians Bantry: Dr Matt Murphys surgery Skibbereen: Cork Road Medical Centre Kinsale: Haven Bay Medical Centre Newcastlewest: Heaneys Opticians

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on a very keen budget. All these items are from Dunnes Signature range and are available in their stores across the country from May onwards.

One of Ireland’s most popular shops Clerys has been a long standing part of Dublin’s retail history for over 160 years.

With the store’s recent reopening has come an exciting development in the fashion department which now reflects all the current and classic trends through a vast range of labels.

Their recent Spring /Summer Fashion Show held in the charming Tea Rooms on the first floor showcased the key trends of the season including tribal inspired looks, feminine ‘blush’, monochrome, nautical and my personal favourite – this season’s pretty florals with a fresh and modern twist.

Among a few of my favourites pictured here is a gorgeous soft pink Bolero Jacket by Daisy May (€165) and Matching dress (€164). This outfit is so feminine, bright and pretty, yet short sleeves and knee length make it also age-appropriate. The detail around the waist and hips also give a very flattering fit.

Another favourite from the show was also soft pink, a crochet lurex coat and dress from Avalon (€299.95) I also picked out a beautiful navy lace dress from Alexon (€199) which once again had the waist detail, short sleeve and knee length which were flattering, elegant and would really take you anywhere this summer – parties, races, even a wedding.

Clerys also have a great new range of designs from Jacques Vert which really caught my eye, from dresses, separates and hats, the range of pieces are easy to match and pair and give a combination of outfits that are particularly stylish.

With flowery prints in soft colours being a key feature of this season’s collections along with the smart monochrome trend of black and white prints, there are some wonderful choices in boutiques around the country right now.

With the ‘look of the Irish’ in the spotlight these days it is so refreshing to see Irish designers’ collections appearing on catwalks and in stores all over the world. As they make an impact on the fashion world, Irish designs are in demand by international celebrities and they are forging big reputations for creativity and innovation. Names and labels that are doing particularly well are Simone Rocha – daughter of John Rocha; Lennon Courtney; Joanne Hynes and Honor Fitzsimons.

It was down at Kerry Fashion Week recently where I had the opportunity to meet with Irish Designer of the Year 2014 Helen Steele who told me what she thinks about the current state of the Irish fashion industry. She complained: “Irish fashion is evolving, however it does not design realistically for women over 40. It is short-sighted of the industry to focus on the youth market and it is all run by men, like the beauty industry! This alienates the older customer. Also, there is a need to have mature sales women in the shops who understand what the 50 or 60 year old customer wants. Very few stores have older salespeople, and this is a big mistake”.

Most of Helen’s collection is in ‘soft tailoring’ so people feel great in it, and as she says “wearing something beautiful can make a difference to how you feel about yourself”.

The Helen Steele label was established in 2011 as a sister company of Silverhill Feathers by Helen Steele and her husband Stuart Steele CEO of Silverhillfarm in Monaghan the home of the celebrated Irish duck. The company mission statement is "Total dedication to the creation of perfection in wearable walks of art " keeping you warm in the winter and Page 14 Senior Times May/June 2014

From the Dunnes summer collection cool in the summer! The first collection of WART (wearable art) was shown at London and Paris fashion weeks for Spring Summer 2012 to extremely positive reviews with collections being sold to stockists on three different continents. Since then the company has doubled its sales season after season with collections selling out within days of reaching shop floors in Seoul, Tokyo, Cannes and Dublin, showing at London fashion week and Paris fashion week every season since start up. All of the brands clothing is produced in Ireland in both Dublin and Monaghan.

While Helen’s designs are big in the Middle East and in France, there is only one stockist in Ireland who has her range, and that is Costume in Dublin 2. This season’s collections include a very exciting mix of colours, patterns and also lovely elegant ‘Retro’ styles – think of Imelda May and her classic quiff and retro style. You might even find something at the back of your wardrobe that you can dust down and ‘reinvent’. My own mother always said that if you keep something long enough, it will come back into fashion. And she was right!

Don’t worry if your budget does not stretch to buying all the lovely things you would like this summer. If you can buy just one thing, I advise you choose a bag. A statement bag can tick several of the season’s key trend boxes. The geometricprint monochrome limited edition ‘printed shopper’ as it is called, from Marks & Spencer will really make you stand out from the crowd and lift any outfit you are wearing.

So, remember, if all else fails this season – bag the bag! www.seniortimes.ie

We featured Dzogchen Beara, the meditation and retreat centre located in an area of wild natural beauty in West Cork, in our January issue. The centre is now offering mid-week retreats entitled Meditation as a Way of Being, specially geared for the over-50’s, on the 27th-29th of May and the 18th-20th of November.

The retreats are part of the centre’s Free Spirit programme and are open to all for a catering-only fee of €49 (you can make a donation towards the running costs of the retreat, according to your means, if you wish). Accommodation options include ocean-view cottages, en-suite rooms with conservatories and a farmhouse hostel.

The centre also offers open days for active retirement and other community groups. Days can include an introduction to Buddhism, guided meditations and a delicious vegetarian lunch made with fresh organic ingredients: The centre will adjust the programme to suit the needs and wishes of each group.

There is also a café and bookshop serving barista coffee and tea and home-baked treats and visitors are welcome to explore the grounds and meadow walks with their spectacular Atlantic views. For more information visit www.dzogchenbeara.org, email info@dzogchenbeara.org or phone 027 73032.

Humour

A bum deal Shay Healy bemoans the loss of an old ‘friend’ One minute you were there behind me and the next minute you were gone. Another old friend departed. When I think of all the support I got from you and the intimacy of our shared relationship, its just a shock of great magnitude, to realise you are gone and you won’t be coming back.

My ass has disappeared. And I don’t mean a donkey.

I was very happy with my bum, two little hamburger buns that filled out a pair of jeans in style. Over the years, it drew many compliments.

Where did it go? I tried to recall when I first noticed it was gone, but there was an element of confusion because around the turn of the century I had a bit of a belly for a while. I began to wonder did my bum migrate to my stomach slowly, disguised as a paunch? Was this a first move in escaping completely.

I weighed thirteen stone seven pounds at that time and despite the avoirdupois I still looked alright from behind. But then 2003 along came a diagnosis of Parkinson’s disease, which was going to have all sorts of unpredictable side effects.

It must have been at that point that my posterior decided to scarper, very slowly, so as not to be detected. For the first five years, it was a breeze. I said to myself, I can handle this. My appetite was consistently good, but after seven years my weight tumbled to 12. St. 7lbs. (don’t do metric). And a year later it was down by a further stone.

That’s when I really starting feeling the effects of being deserted by my bottom. I looked in the mirror and it wasn’t there anymore. My two roundy hamburger buns had been replace by two pancakes. My 34 inch waist went out the window. All my jeans were sliding down my hips and my belts acquired two extra holes.

false bums. You strap them on and not alone do they fill out your trousers, they also provide a cushion effect.

I’m optimistically looking forward, at some time in the future, to overhear somebody, preferably a woman, saying ,“for a man in his seventies, he has a great ass !”

Now I was down to a 32 inch waist, but I was starting to notice that sitting on a hard seat for any length of time was growing very uncomfortable.

Would you believe it, I dropped a further 14lbs last year, squeezed into a size 30 inch Levi’s and had to buy myself a special cushion for sitting at my computer. My bum is so flesh free, I’m thinking about starting a band called Bony M, but the thoughts of sitting on tour buses for hours with my unpadded rear end is too off-putting.

But I am not in despair yet. I serendipitously met a medical supplier , John O’Neill at a barbecue last Summer. He invited me to try out a state-of-the-art new bed called a mobility bed. This extraordinary mattress has in-built sensors and when you roll or turn during the night, a series of gears within the mattress adjusts the mattress and puts you back on an even keel. It also counteracts bedsores and as well as helping Parkinson's sufferers, it is a boon to wheelchair users, even people with dementia who don’t seep well. When the flesh is gone off your bottom, the cushion effect of the bed is marvellous.

Because of a ropey back, I have to sleep on my back, but, mirabile dictum, it stops the daily pain in the back, once I lie down.

The best news yet though, is that my friend John O’Neill sells Page 16 Senior Times May/June 2014

Cartoons by Paul Steele www.seniortimes.ie

EU Climate package: ''ambitious proposals are the standard to follow"

By Connie Hedegaard, EU Commissioner for Climate Action The European Commission outlined its proposals for climate and energy policies up to 2030 recently. These include: a binding emissions reduction target of 40% from 1990 levels and an EU-wide binding target of at least 27% of energy coming from renewable sources. And on energy efficiency, the EU Energy Commissioner will first review the current legislation before proposing the next steps. But they will come.

When leading economist Jeffrey Sachs gives three cheers for the new EU climate and energy policy for 2030, there are reasons for us to be proud.

When UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said the ''ambitious proposals are the standard to follow''; there are reasons for us to believe that not only have we moved first, but we have also moved with ambition.

And when some environmental groups label our proposals ''unambitious'', and other industry sectors branding them as ''too ambitious'', one could think that we have found the right balance.

Overall, the proposals seem to have had a timid reception here in Europe compared to the more positive comments coming from international leaders. But this gives us reason to believe that the real ambition of our proposals, and their significance in the fight against climate change, has been recognised.

Firstly, our 40% is in line with science as it put us right on track to meet our 2050 www.seniortimes.ie

goal of cutting emissions by 80%-95%.

This is how much developed countries will need to reduce emissions by 2050, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC), to keep global warming below 2°C. Secondly, 40% is an ambitious emissions target as it can only be met by reducing emissions in the EU. This is unlike the 20% emissions target for 2020, which could be partially met by financing projects outside the EU to compensate for our emissions. And as we cut more here in Europe, we will attract the investments and technology.

Finally, the 40% target is doable and cost effective. Our economic analyses show that the 40% target can be achieved with manageable short term investment, in a way that unleashes significant long term benefits.

Just like the 2020 target, the 40% emissions target will be binding at both European level and national level as it will be broken down into binding national targets.

We will of course continue a strong focus on renewable energy. Here the Commission proposed a renewables target, binding at European level but not at national level, through national obligations.

While the practical details must be worked out and agreed upon, the bottom line is that Europe must continue expanding renewables while allowing flexibility to transform the European energy system in a way that every

member state contributes to meet our common climate goals.

True, an ambitious 40% emission reduction target will itself stimulate investments in renewables across the EU. But having a binding renewables target will boost even more investment in clean energy – something which a target for emissions alone would not achieve.

So, the Commission has set the course for a low-carbon future and if EU leaders endorse them, Europe will be the first one out of the gate with such an ambitious climate target that takes account of our global responsibility.

It is now up to the European leaders to take it forward, and maintain the EU's leadership in international climate talks and the low-carbon technology race.

For more information on the EU’s policy in this area please see the Climate Action website: http://ec.europa.eu/clima/ For any other questions about the European Union, The European Commission Representation in Ireland website is: www.euireland.ie You can visit us in person at: European Union House, 18 Dawson Street, Dublin 2 Call us: 01 634 11 11 Follow us on Facebook and Twitter www.facebook.com/EUIreland www.twitter.com/eurireland Senior Times May/June 2014 Page 17

Personal finance

Aviva’s new enhanced annuity means a better retirement – for some...

Buying an annuity hasn’t been the first choice for the self employed retiree, company director or even a member of an occupational, defined contribution pension for some time. That may not be the case, if a new annuity development by Aviva Life and Pensions catches on.

Annuities provide a pension for life but at a huge cost: the underlying bond rates, which produce the pension income, have been so low for so long, that a 65 year old man with a 60 year old wife who wanted to provide her with a two-thirds pension upon his death might end up with an annual pension income of just c€4,000 a year for every €100,000 saved in their fund.

A single life annuity – with no provision for a survivor – will provide a somewhat better annual income, but when the annuitant dies, so does the income and the fund reverts to the insurance company from which the annuity was purchased.

At best, annuities are a part-solution, perhaps as a small element of the more popular retirement income strategy of the past 13-14 years: the (invested) approved retirement fund (ARF) and, if required*, the approved minimum retirement fund (AMRF).

With ARF/ARMFs, a pension income or just the investment yield can be drawn down each year and should the fundholder die, the remaining money under investment passes tax-free to Page 18 Senior Times May/June 2014

Jill Kerby explains

a spouse or civil partner or into their estate for their other heirs.

It is only at age 75 that an annuity purchase with the remaining ARF/AMRF becomes compulsory; but by then the annuity rates are very generous (because life expectancy is lower) and much of the fund may have already been drawn down.

Addressing the problem Conscious of the poor return from annuities, but also the concern that new pensioners have about staying in volatile investment markets once they retire, Aviva, which only re-entered the annuity market in Ireland last July, has decided to address this problem, at least for one group of retirees – pensioners with serious or chronic health conditions.

Aviva’s new annuity is aimed at people who suffer (or have suffered) from illnesses such as cancer, a heart condition, stroke. They are offering annuity rates up to 30% more, depending on the person’s age and medical history.

It isn’t fair, says Aviva’s new CEO in Ireland Alison Burns “that a 65 year old with a serious heart condition is paid exactly the same rate as a person of the same age with no compromising health issues”. Life expectancy is one of the main dictating considerations in calculating annuity rate risk and this unique www.seniortimes.ie

annuity addresses that issue.

In the UK, one in four annuities are “enhanced ”.

With a recent Aviva Consumer Attitudes Survey showing that more than half (55%) of us are worried about not being able to afford a decent retirement and 49% expecting to have to work past normal retirement age (45% of those close to retirement age) the need for proper retirement planning has never been more essential.

Anyone close to retirement needs to get independent (ideally fee-based) pension planning advice and should be taken through the complicated post-retirement options of annuity or ARF purchase where applicable. This is especially important for members of Defined Benefit schemes.

Unfortunately, most DB schemes are still in deficit and cannot deliver the promises they’ve made to pensioners, existing workers or workers who have left service early but still expect a part-pension from their ex-employer when they retire.

Some DB employers pay out pension incomes (which are based on final salary and years of service) directly from their pension funds; others purchase annuities that reflect the amount owed. Anyone lucky enough to have an annuitised pension from a DB scheme “are the lucky ones” say pension experts and have nothing to worry about as their income is no longer part of the company’s finances and has been “ring fenced”.

It is the DB members of struggling schemes who have to worry if their scheme is wound up voluntarily by the trustees or involuntarily if the company goes bust, before they retire, as no

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one can then be confident of getting their final salary/service years ‘pension for life’. As too many workers have discovered (like those at Waterford Glass), they can end up with a tiny fraction of their expected pension.

For members in defined contribution schemes, their pension fund value reflects what has been contributed to it by both the employer and worker and the performance of investment markets.

At retirement DC fund pensioners can opt for an ARF instead of a purchased annuity, but too often if their pension pot is small, it will be mostly absorbed in an AMRF (*where the first €63,500 is set aside if you don’t have independent income of €12,000, and only the annual growth can be drawn down, not the capital). The fund fees and charges, volatility and poor returns just don’t make this a reasonable option when compared to the security provided by an annuity.

Aviva’s new enhanced annuity won’t help small fund holders unless they are in poor health, but it is a welcome sign that the life and pension companies are finally trying to address the real concerns that retirees have about matching the need for a decent income with the kind of risk they can tolerate.

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Health and wellbeing

A holistic approach to living “I am better focused, more tolerant and relaxed and feel better overall with regular training. As I get older, I find that integrating Tai Chi Chuan movements and principles into my daily life has allowed me to make adjustments to accommodate the usual problems associated with ageing.” - Chris Davala Originally from the United States, Chris Davala came to Ireland in 1976 because of a love of travelling and playing traditional Irish music. He trained as an acupuncture practitioner and Tai Chi instructor and now runs the Dún Laoghaire branch of the Master Ding Academy (MDA) for Tai Chi Chuan.

When he started Tai Chi Chuan, Chris had a number of sports injury related problems, which he acquired from gymnastics, and some inherited problems related to minor digestive ailments. He had some previous experience in Karate but was amazed at the martial arts potential of the Tai Chi movements whose potent power was generated from the internal dynamics of Qi (energy) rather than physical force. The Tai Chi Chuan movements were developed to improve the generation and circulation of Qi and thus improve health. The slow movements promote relaxation of mind/body/spirit. He has found that applying these principles and techniques to his daily activities makes him better able to deal with the exigencies of these stressful times.

“The slow movements of the Tai Chi form helped me deal with a very stressful time in my life. Learning the Tai Chi postures correctly helped improve my physical complaints of joint pain and digestive discomfort and became an incentive for regular practice.” - Chris Davala Page 20 Senior Times May/June 2014

His old joint injuries from gymnastics have improved because his body mechanics are more efficient, and a better physical structure has all but alleviated his original digestive complaints.

“I have strived to maintain harmony/balance in my own life through the Traditional Chinese Medicine I take and dispense and the “go with the flow” philosophy of Tai Chi training. Over the years I have found the benefits of this balance through a more harmonious integration of my relationships, work, food intake, rest etc.” - Chris Davala The impact on his life and well-being was so profound that he decided to become an instructor under the tuition of Master John Ding, which Chris describes as unlocking limitless possibilities of his own potential.

“As an Instructor, it is very satisfying to share knowledge with students and watch them grow and develop into healthier individuals (and a healthier world).” - Chris Davala Anyone who is interested in taking Tai Chi classes or becoming an instructor should e-mail Ross Cousens: ross@masterdingacademy.com The Master Ding Academy has been operating in Ireland since 1993 and has a team of instructors: five in Cork, five in Dublin and one in Maynooth. It is now introducing its first ever Open Instructor Training Programme for those outside the organisation who wish to develop/teach Tai Chi: https://masterdingacademy.com/content/ instructor-training-course-2-years www.seniortimes.ie

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Too Old to Volunteer Abroad? Think again!

Evelyn with students

Why would a retired Irish couple, with their family reared, opt to spend 8 weeks volunteering in the highlands of Guatemala? In 2013, Dubliners Norman & Evelyn Burns decided to achieve some of the things they had dreamed about all their lives. Volunteering abroad was one. Walking the Camino was another. Both boxes were ticked

by December 31st 2013.

“Volunteering abroad was something I always thought I would like to do. When the opportunity arose last year at age 65 plus, I mentioned my thoughts to Norman, who was surprised and maybe a little unsure at first, but within 24hrs Page 22 Senior Times May/June 2014

embraced the idea 100%!” says Evelyn, who returned from her trip in October.

The couple began to realize their dream through research. “We contacted a number of organisations and decided to work with Cork-based EIL Intercultural Learning, as they took the time to challenge our aspirations and marry us to a country and project that best used our skills and request.”

EIL Intercultural Learning is the Irish national office of a worldwide not-forprofit network, the Experiment in International Living (EIL). Operating in Ireland since the early 1960s, over 30,000 people have taken part in travel, volunteering and learning opportunities

Norman with students

overseas. EIL offers short term volunteering opportunities for people of all ages to over eighteen different countries in Asia, Latin America & Africa. www.seniortimes.ie

A group of women in Guatemala, Photo by Emily Price

Mother & baby in Guatemala, Photo by Emily Price

Evelyn & an eager student in Tecpan

Norman & friends in Tecpan

Reflecting on preparing for the trip Evelyn remembers, “Our main concern was living with a host family for three months. This was something completely new to us! As things turned out, host family living had more positives than negatives. It gave us the best insight into real life in Guatemala.”

further up in the highlands. Prior to leaving we were asked to seek more volunteer help in developing an ongoing English teaching programme for the area.”

(mainly children with no parents) and helping in some small way to improve their conditions”.

Before embarking on their big adventure, Norman and Evelyn took part in a pre-departure workshop organised by EIL. The workshop covered important topics such as health, safety and cultural adaptation and also set the context for volunteering by examining global development issues. The couple also got the opportunity to meet some other outgoing volunteers and get advice from returned volunteers.

“Guatemala was a wonderful experience, heartbreaking at times and in some ways different than we expected, but we loved it and will go back”, says Evelyn. Their experience of volunteering did not disappoint, as Norman describes, “We were working through the local town administration office. Here we set up English classes, very basic as neither of us have a background in teaching. They were a great success. We also had local school inspectors and teachers attending these classes and we were invited to visit and teach in their local schools located www.seniortimes.ie

Dermot O’Regan, from Sligo decided to volunteer in Vietnam in 2012 and was strongly motivated to offer his services to a worthy cause. Retired from his wholesale business and now running a B&B in Enniscrone, Dermot found his experience in Vietnam fascinating. “My experience with the Vietnamese people was very positive. They are very friendly and the local volunteers were a joy to work with. The project I worked on was at an orphanage operated by Buddhist monks. I worked in a section where there were about twelve 2 - 4 year olds. Their conditions were pretty grim so I set about trying to improve their lot with the help of a couple of local volunteers. We did things like painting the building, putting in shelving and storage units and even got a new roof put on the building.”

Dermot viewed his trip to Ho Chi Minh as a great adventure. “The satisfying outcome was meeting such a wonderful mix of fellow volunteers. In my case I was the elder of the group but it never mattered. The other would be the sense of gratification one got from working with the various groups,

For people considering volunteering abroad this year, Dermot offers this advice. “I volunteered for eight weeks, which to be honest with the benefit of hindsight was a couple of weeks too long. I suppose I was missing family, friends and some of the creature comforts. My advice would be to carefully research destination options and satisfy oneself that the climate & physical conditions suit the individual.”

Based on her experience, Evelyn has one message for those considering Volunteering abroad “Go for it! Feel the Fear and do it anyway! My life has been enriched more than I could have imagined. It is now six months since we left Guatemala, and the shock of the contrasts between our two worlds has subsided, but the great, fond memories have only got stronger”.

If you would like to discuss the possibility of volunteering abroad, please contact Cliona at 021 4551535 or email cliona@eilireland.org.

Volunteer opportunities are available for individuals, couples or groups of friends.

Information regarding volunteer projects can be found at www.volunteerabroad.ie Senior Times May/June 2014 Page 23

Health

ARC Dublin Centres provide free cancer support At ARC, we know how it feels to be diagnosed with cancer or to have someone you love diagnosed. We know about the tidal wave of emotions that come with it. We know how difficult it is feeling you have to stay strong for family and friends when deep down you want to run away. We know because many of our volunteers and staff have experienced it and come through it.

It’s why we make a special effort to roll out the red carpet and greet you with open arms. Come visit us and you’ll be struck by the warm welcome and immediately feel at home.

At ARC, “cancer” is not the most important word – for us, it’s “you”. Let us help take the weight off your shoulders.

Who we are Twenty years ago, ARC identified a need for people diagnosed with cancer and their loved ones to have access to cancer support services that went beyond traditional medical treatment. There was a requirement for a holistic approach that took into account body, mind and soul, and assisted with people’s emotional and psychological well-being, as well as their physical battle with the disease.

Since its establishment, ARC has offered support, complementary therapies and counselling services in a caring and supportive environment to thousands of people affected by cancer. We are hugely inspired by those coming through our doors who tell us that being able to talk to others with cancer about their experiences, as well as to our own staff and volunteers, has meant the world to them and lifted a huge burden. Our centres are strategically located near the major designated centres of excellence for cancer care in Dublin. All our services are provided by professional staff and trained volunteers, and available to anyone in Ireland.

What we do ARC offers a range of free support, counselling and therapy services to people who have been diagnosed with cancer, to their families, to parents of children who have cancer, to friends and to carers.

Support ARC has two drop-in centres – ARC Eccles Street and ARC South Circular Road – where you are encouraged to call in, have a Page 24 Senior Times May/June 2014

chat and a cup of tea with one of our trained volunteers. You will get to meet others in similar circumstances to your own and benefit from mutual support. You can also enjoy the beauty of nature in our peaceful city garden in Eccles Street.

Counselling ARC’s psychotherapists offer short-term counselling to help you cope with the many issues and concerns that can arise following a diagnosis of cancer. We offer a safe space to talk through what’s going on in your life and to help you to get back on your feet.

Therapy ARC’s therapists provide a wide array of complementary therapies to help you feel like you again. These range from stress management, reflexology and acupuncture, to Indian head massage, metamorphosis and relaxation and visualisation therapies, and are provided on an individual or group basis as appropriate. A wig-fitting service and positive appearance workshop are also available. Therapies vary each month, so please check out our website or get in touch for up-to-date details.

Your home from home Why not drop by and say hello at one of our two drop-in centres on the Northside and Southside of Dublin? All services are free – no appointment necessary.

ARC South Circular Road 559 South Circular Road Dublin 8 T 01 707 8880 Open Mon - Fri 10am - 4.30pm ARC Eccles Street 65 Eccles Street Dublin 7 T 01 830 7333 Open Mon - Fri 10am - 4.30pm www.facebook.com/arccancersupport www.twitter.com/arccancerdublin www.youtube.com/arccancersupport Email: info@arccancersupport.ie www.arccancersupport.ie www.seniortimes.ie

Your Support Can Make a Difference NCBI, the national sight loss agency, provides support and services to almost 18,000 people with significant sight loss nationwide. We help people to live independently by helping them make the most of their remaining vision.

Services include emotional support, advice and information, as well as practical support and solutions to the challenges encountered by people with vision loss. With our ageing population, the number of people needing to access our services is increasing by 12 per cent each year.

To provide these vital services, we need to continually raise funds – and that’s where you can help.

You can help by remembering NCBI in your will By making a gift in your will to NCBI you will leave a legacy of help. Speak to your solicitor about how to leave a legacy in your will to NCBI. Other ways you can help: • You can make an online donation at www.ncbi.ie • You can send a donation by post to NCBI, Whitworth, Road, Drumcondra, Dublin 9.

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Opinion

Why are lobbyists tolerated?

Jim Collier

The PAC (Public Accounts Committee) heard some weeks ago that Rehab paid Frank Flannery more than €400,000 in consultancy fees between 2007 and 2013, (an average of almost €60,000 per annum, a period after he stepped down as CEO but was still on the board. Under ‘public affairs support’.

Brian Kerr, Chairman of the Rehab Group Board, said Mr Flannery had ‘engagement with key politicians on issues’ relating to the Rehab Group. At the time, Mr Flannery was a key strategist and advisor with Fine Gael --was there not an unfair advantage here?

What I am getting at is the general principle, not Mr Flannery, of so called political lobbying, where vested interests can afford to employ ‘lobbyists’ to influence decisions which should be made on a community and need basis, to suit their corporate preferences and priorities. We are all aware of unsavoury incidents in the recent past court cases where corruption was proven against lobbyists.

Should lobbyists (often called ‘consultants’) be given access to politicians ahead of the ordinary citizen? When people are being paid to lobby Ministers and Heads of Government Departments and Semi state Companies, is it right Page 26 Senior Times May/June 2014

and just, when the ordinary unpaid Joe Soap has to compete when they are only seeking what is justifiable for under privileged citizens.

So many outstanding questions about water charges Despite the many millions of euros spent (wasted) already on consultants it is incredible that there are so many questions still unanswered.

Will there be a standing charge?

If there is a standing charge, how much will it be?

It appears that there will a ‘free’ allowance, but what will it be?

Will it be greater for senior citizens and those with illnesses or disabilities?

What about those living in apartments, especially older people; they are not individually metered, so they are extremely worried that they will be overcharged. How is their charge going to be handled?

Unions regarding compensation for workers? If so what is the agreement?

These are just some of the questions being asked, what have the consultants been doing regarding these?

More medical card cuts Many full medical cards have been withdrawn, or about to be withdrawn, from the over 70’s, due to the lowering of the income limit (means testing) for qualification. While at the same time children allowances continue without means testing for the wealthy.

It is now a well known fact that older sick people on medication, now paying €2.50 per prescription item, are drawing only part of their medication because they can no afford to pay for it all, thereby putting their health seriously at risk. Older people have never been hit so badly and out of proportion with other groups, as with this Government, who keep ignoring the hardship calls.

Who will read the meters? Are they easily accessible?

This is despite their announcement and promises of the Positive Ageing Strategy.

Ireland is definitely not now the ‘best country to grow old in’.

Is it true that the water Bord already made agreements with County Councils/

The view expressed here are not necessarily those of Senior Times www.seniortimes.ie

What would life be without Music and Friends?

Join the Friends of the National Concert Hall Love the sound of an orchestra tuning up, the anticipation of a great performance, getting out and hearing world class musicians in thrilling live performances? So do our Friends.

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Cosmetics and grooming

It’s only natural..

Its back to basics for beauty. Mairead Robinson tells you how.

There is no need for needles, strong chemicals and intrusive treatments any more. With so many of us looking for effective products that are suitable for sensitive skin and are paraben, aluminium and sulfate free - the good news is that the beauty market is listening. Using natural products and avoiding harsh chemicals is the way forward for the cosmetic industry and is certainly what the consumer wants.

But we also want the products to work, be affordable and kind to the environment as well as to ourselves.

There have been alarming articles in the media suggesting that ingredients in some hair colours could be dangerous, underarm deodorants have also come under suspicion, and while we love to lather our skin with creams and lotions, some have been linked with unhealthy reactions both obvious and hidden.

Starting with hair colouring – don’t you hate the strong ammonia smell and worry about what it is doing to your skin? A new range of hair colours called Naturlique, distributed by Simply Natural – www.simplynatural.ie - pose the question; “If you could achieve a better result with a professional hair colour that is more natural, more gentle Page 28 Senior Times May/June 2014

and has less harmful ingredients, why wouldn’t you use it?” So, I decided to take up the challenge and went to The Hair Studio in Killorglin, Co. Kerry for a consultation with proprietor Teresa O’Sullivan. I have to say I was, and still am, delighted with the results. The colouring procedure was more like a nourishing pampering treatment, and the colours while natural are also shiny and luxurious. There was no unpleasant odour, no skin reaction and the natural oils – apricot, grape seed, jojoba and sunflower seed – really leave the hair soft and silky.

Many of us stop colouring our hair as we get older due to the harsh effect that the chemicals have on our hair, and so we reluctantly let the hair go grey to keep the condition. I was so impressed with this product, that I am going to keep colouring my hair into the future, and say “goodbye” to both grey hair and harsh chemical products, and treat myself to this beauty hair pampering colouring treatment regularly. In between, I am using the Naturlique hair shampoo and conditioner at home.

Check the website or call Simply Natural on 01-2143674 for details of a salon near you.

Staying natural, there is a whole range of face and body products available now that cleanse and nourish including seaweed powder baths; hand foot and body butters; Kiss My Face moisturisers, eye creams and cleansing masks and delicious bars of soap made from goat’s milk called Zum Bar! Kiss my Face also make an underarm deodorant with is fragrance and aluminium free called Natural Active Life.

I came across a range of products made using aloe vera recently which are being sold around Ireland in homes rather like the Tupperware parties of years ago. As well as drinking the gel for health purposes, they also offer toothpaste and deodorants, face and body creams that are 100% natural. This is all great news for the health and environment conscious consumer as well as those with sensitive skin. More on Forever Living products at aloealoeforever.myflpbiz.com So what else is new for Summer 2014?

As always it is vital to protect our skin against sun damage, and our friends for sensitive skin at La Roche-Posay have www.seniortimes.ie

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Cosmetics and grooming

two products in their Anthelious XL range you might like to pick up before you expose your skin to the sun either at home or abroad. The first is a compactcream complete with mirror and sponge in a neat while compact, very high protection at 50+spf. This will stop you looking shiny-faced while affording maximum skin protection. The other product is a fluid, also 50+spf and UVB+UVA. It is ultra light and suitable for sensitive and sun intolerant skin. It comes in a neat 50ml handbag size plastic bottle.

And finally, a scent of summer – there is no time more perfect to enjoy a light perfume or body fragrance than these early summer months. One of the most popular perfumes in recent years (certainly became a favourite of mine when it came out) was La Vie Est Belle from Lancome. Then followed a light version which I was not so impressed with, but now they have a L’Eau du Toilette, which has all the sensuality of the original and is perfect for the summer days ahead.

Roger & Gallet have produced a lovely fresh fragrant spray with ginger, mandarin and pomegranate. I adore this Page 30 Senior Times May/June 2014

exotic light fragrance, look out for the Gingembre Rouge red box.

And staying with one of my favourite spices, Ginger appears again in a wonderful aromatherapy bath and body oil from Kerstin Florian. Also containing coriander and plai essential oils this is a real treat to invigorate the senses while moisturizing and nourishing the skin.

And of course, it is also certified organic.

Another nourishing naturally moisturising body oil comes from REN, infused with Moroccan rose otto oil this wonderful natural product protects against oxidative damage to combat the signs of ageing. 100% natural fragrance, REN clean skincare contains no parabens, sulphates, petrolatum, silicones or any of those other nasty ingredients!

And finally back to a youthful complexion – Nivea is a name that is known and trusted by women for many years and is one of the world’s leading skincare brands. They recently released their new cellular anti-age range which consists of a day cream, night cream, eye cream and serum. Aimed at women

40+ the range has been developed by Nivea’s team of skin care experts using active ingredients including magnolia extract, an antioxidant known to increase cells’ resilience to oxidative stress. Well priced at just €15.99 each, these products have been appearing on our shelves since March.

If you are a fan of new procedures that are non-invasive yet effective, Michelle Casey at Aqua Beauty/Medispa in Stillorgan, South Dublin is offering a fabulous new treatment - Viora Reaction Radio Frequency – a skin tightening treatment that is totally painless and has immediate smoothing and plumping results. Particularly effective on the face and neck, a course of treatments is recommended. Contact Michelle at 01-2781616 or check out www.aquabeauty.ie for more details.

As we head into the summer of 2014, try out what is new and what is natural to help you looking and feeling your very best for the sunny days ahead.

If you have any queries regarding skincare, email me at mairead.seniorbeauty@gmail.com

www.seniortimes.ie

Security

Safe Deposit Boxes and Document Safekeeping Where do you store the items that are most valuable to you?

More than 27,000 homes were burgled last year, so it’s important to have peace of mind that your valuables are safe and protected. If you have precious jewellery, sensitive documents or other irreplaceable possessions, then you probably need something more secure than a drawer in your home. Even a home safe wasn’t enough to keep one of our client’s valuables secure. In accordance with client confidentiality agreements, we have chosen not to disclose the name of the client, who will hereinafter be referred to as Mr. Ryan.

Having been woken from his sleep in the early hours of the morning last December, Mr. Ryan was confronted by two intruders. The men were armed and ordered Mr. Ryan to hand over any cash he had in his possession. Terrified, but composed, Mr. Ryan assured the men he didn’t keep money in the house. Intent on not leaving empty handed, the intruders began to search the bedroom. They uncovered a small safe in the wardrobe, bolted to the floor.

Despite recently having alarm monitoring installed, Mr. Ryan had assured them over the phone, just moments before he was confronted, that it must have been a false alarm. The men managed to remove the safe and flee from the premises.

Mr. Ryan told us that he kept his will, passport, house deeds and a valuable watch given to him by his father in the safe.

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We have created a discrete, state-of-the-art 6 Level Security facility, situated on the prestigious Waterloo Road, Ballsbridge, where you can ensure the safety of your belongings. Privacy and discretion is guaranteed; no one else will have access to your box, or know what it contains. Clients are identified by fingerprint, facial image and a unique pin code to ensure that only the authorised box holder is granted access.

Sentinel Vaults is Ireland’s only certified member of the Safety Deposit Association, and is the country’s first and only independent safe deposit box facility inside an original bank vault.

We are open 7 days a week and are registered with the Financial Conduct Authority and the Information Commissioner’s Office for data protection. Currently we offer two main services; a safe deposit box facility and document safe keeping. Our safe deposit boxes start at €299 per annum, however, Sentinel Vaults would like to offer a discounted price of €180 for a small box, for a year, to all Senior Times readers.

If you would like more information about the services we offer, or if you wish to arrange a tour of our facility, we would be delighted to accommodate you. Please do not hesitate to contact us on 01-667 8370 or visit sentinelvaults.ie.

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The current economic climate has made us all become more focused on the increasing cost of the basic products and services that are an important part of everyday life.

Private health insurance is a significant source of spending for close to 50 per cent of the population, but getting the best value for money has not been straightforward.

Research conducted by the Health Insurance Authority (HIA) continues to illustrate that Irish consumers value health insurance very highly and it’s particularly valued by people over the age of fifty.

In this context, it is important to know that consumers of health insurance have very important rights, including the right to switch their plan or insurer without penalty regardless of age or state of health. In particular, if you have already served your waiting periods an insurer cannot require that you serve them again when switching to a similar plan.

The HIA is an independent regulator for the private health insurance sector that can help you to make the most of your rights as a health insurance consumer. It provides consumer information and product and price comparisons for the private health insurance market. Because the HIA is independent of the insurers, consumers can be satisfied that they are getting impartial information free of charge to help them make the best choices.

The HIA has a very helpful website www.hia.ie to assist consumers compare the range of products on offer from health insurance companies. This plan comparison tool compares more than 280 plans available from all insurers which allows consumers find the policy that best meets their requirements while also saving them money. Alternatively, consumers can telephone the HIA at 1850 929 166 / (01) 4060080, where the HIA staff will assist with information and comparisons.

In addition to its website, The HIA has prepared “Ten Tips” for consumers when looking to get health insurance cover!

These tips should help consumers get the right cover for their needs at the right price.

For more information on how you can save money on your health insurance, visit www.hia.ie or call 1850 929 166 / (01) 4060080.

Ten tips when looking for health insurance cover!

• Remember that, by law, everybody is entitled to change health insurer regardless of age and state of health and if you have already served your waiting period you cannot be required to serve it again, so shop around! Many consumers are in a position to make very large savings on their health insurance.

• Use the Health Insurance Authority’s website to view and compare all plans on the market. www.hia.ie . The Authority has developed a useful comparison tool that allows people check all the available cover across the market from all the private health insurers. It’s a complex area but if in doubt, just ask! You can also call the Authority at 1850 929 166 or 01-406 0080.

• Check out the news section on the Health Insurance Authority’s website, which will advise of any upcoming special offers from all of the private health insurers that you can keep in Page 32 Senior Times May/June 2014

The Health Insurance Authority Liam Sloyan, Chief Executive, Health Insurance Authority mind when choosing your cover. If you don’t have access to the internet, the Authority will be happy to help you over the phone.

• Remember that you don’t have to have everyone in your family on the same plan, so you could put the children/ grandchildren on one plan and adults on another if you like.

Some insurers will give free cover to children under 3, whereas some insurers will have special offers running which will be listed on the HIA website’s news section. Student rates are also offered from 18-21 and up to 22 on some plans.

• The cost of your plan will largely be determined by the level of hospital accommodation you choose, so the next step would be to decide if you want to be covered for private care in public hospitals only, or private care in public and private hospitals. Many plans now cover a limited list of public or private hospitals, so you should make sure the hospitals covered by the plan are relevant to you.

• Some plans will give limited cover in hospitals such as the Blackrock Clinic, the Mater Private and the Beacon Clinic. If these hospitals are important to you, it’s something you will need to discuss with your insurer. The higher the plan level, the more cover you will get in these hospitals. However most mid-level plans will cover you for certain cardiac procedures and a portion of other procedures in these hospitals. The procedures covered in these three hospitals are not confined to these hospitals however, so you could get them carried out in a public hospital.

• You should then decide on whether you mind paying a private hospital inpatient excess. This is the amount you pay yourself per private hospital claim. Having an inpatient excess on your plan can sometimes reduce the premium.

• Next you should consider whether you would like to be able to claim money back for doctors, consultant or alternative practitioner visits. If you do, you could pick a plan with higher outpatient or day-to-day benefits and a low outpatient excess.

• Many plans now provide limited cover for hip, knee and shoulder replacement surgery and in some cases cataract surgery in private hospitals. If these procedures are important to you, discuss this with your insurer or switch to a product / insurer that provides more cover for these procedures.

• Remember you can switch plans or insurer even if you have an existing condition. Only higher benefits on the new plan will carry a waiting period and you will always be covered up to the level of your old plan while you’re waiting. www.seniortimes.ie

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Travel The spectacular ornamental gardens at Johnstown Castle feature three lakes, a walled garden and a ‘treasure trail’

Out and about, here and there Continuing her series on suggested days out, Lorna Hogg has come up with more possibilities A day out, an away-day – whether it’s a shared interest, a family trip, part of a holiday, a group event or simply a treat with friends, is a perfect pickme-up. Affordable and fun, whether by car, bus, or even ship, your great day out (with a suitable tea break, of course) could be closer than you think…

Castles and kings It may have been built between 1200 and 1210, but St. John’s Castle in Limerick has entered the twenty first century, thanks to a state of the art make over. Touch screen and 3D displays recount its history, while the Courtyard offers a medieval campaign tent. A forge and siege scenes provide plenty of atmosphere. You can visit the Gate House, battlements and corner towers, and learn about the Castle’s history before relaxing in the café, which has pleasant courtyard and river views. Check also the special events linked to Limerick’s celebrations as Ireland’s first City of Culture in 2014. www.shannonheritage.com Birr Castle, in Co. Offaly, was built in the 1600s, remains a private residence, but is perfectly set in beautiful land Page 34 Senior Times May/June 2014

scaped grounds, with award winning gardens and grounds. There is a sight for every season, from spring flowerings and river walks, to autumn creepers and foliage, plus magnificent trees. The scientifically minded will enjoy the splendid astronomical Great Telescope, or Leviathan. Completed in 1845, it was used up to the early 20th century, and

its size not surpassed until 1917. Its history and findings can be viewed in the Historical Science Museum. There is also a cosy tea room. www.birrcastle.com On the street where we live Coronation Street fans have already welcomed the opportunity to tread those Weatherfield cobbles, for one www.seniortimes.ie

’T N O D !

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King ohn’s K ing JJohn’s Castle C astle

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season only. The soap is moving to a new set, and there is a chance to tour the old set until September. Celtic Horizons Tours’ `The Soaps’ trip offers a 2 night, 3 day break, from €219 p.p.s. It includes ferry crossings and coach travel, staying in Manchester, with a Studio tour of the Street, half a day of shopping at Cheshire Oaks Outlet, and a location tour of Emmerdale country. Dates run from May to September, but are filling quickly. www.celtichorizontours.com Tunnel vision

Fancy emerging from the stadium tunnel and imagining the roar of the crowd?

Croke Park Stadium tours show why it remains at the heart of Gaelic games.

You’ll visit its most important areas, including the dressing rooms, the warm up area, the players lounge and the walkway, and learn about its history at the museum . The adventurous can climb up to the top tier, 30 metres above the pitch, for city views – before sampling the excellent Museum café. www.crokepark.ie

Supporters of Munster rugby can visit its home with a 1 hour tour at Limerick’s Thomond Park. After the Munster Experience Museum visit and film, you can visit pitch-side and take in the Munster dugout, dressing rooms and post match interview area. www.thomondpark.ie Page 36 Senior Times May/June 2014

Underground treasure Ireland’s geology has produced some splendid cave systems. Ailwee Cave, sited under the Burren and around 40 minutes from Galway or Shannon, provide a chance to take in another perspective of the famous landscape.

You can take a 30 minute tour walking through its well lit calcified vistas – over bridged chasms, past frozen and spraying waterfalls and get up close to its dripping stalagmites and stalactites.

march of progress. You could also make a brief visit to nearby Mossley Mill, a preserved flax spinning mill, which has its own museum. www.newtownabbey.gov.uk www.sentryhill.net City of the dead If you think that Dublin has become overcrowded, well, there are another 1.5 million Dubs underground. Maud Gonne, Pearse, Brendan Behan and Luke Kelly are just a few of the inhabitants of Glasnevin Cemetery, and its range of tours covers history, ancestral research and nuggets of information. Fancy eating in a graveyard? The popular Tower Café allows you to do just that. www.glasnevintrust.ie Northern perspective Train travellers to Belfast will be familiar with the sight of Cave Hill, Black Mountain and Divis looming above the city. Now the newly opened Divis Ridge Trail, tarmac-ed and mostly level over its 4.2 mile circuit, will allow everyone to take in the superb views out over the city. You can indeed see for miles and miles – over Belfast Lough, and on good days, as far as the Isle of Man and Scotland. Divis Mountain is largely unexplored, and its bogland and upland heath have remained undeveloped, so there is plenty to see. www.discovernorthernireland.com/walks www.walkNI.com

After viewing the prehistoric brown bear bones, warm up in the cosy tea room, before enjoying the other attractions, including Birds of Prey and perhaps a Hawk Walk. www.ailweecave.ie Farming tales At Newtownabbey, a stone’s throw from Belfast, you can visit one of the most interesting farmhouses in the country, at Sentry Hill. This nineteenth century farmhouse at Carnmoney, Co. Antrim, was the home of the McKinney family.

Continuously occupied by the family from the 1830s until the 1990s, it retains much of its original contents, it gives an unusual insight into 200 years of farming. The family came over from Scotland in the eighteenth century, and their story is packed with incident, recounted by the knowledgeable guides – romantic tales of lovers, on opposing sides during war, family deaths, and the

Siege of Limerick Re-enactment - May 17th 2014 -11.00 – 4.00p.m.

A fantastic event re enacting the final stages of the battle of 1642 from the point of the breach in the Castle defences. Jacobite and Williamite soldiers in full military costume stage a dramatic re enactment of the fearsome siege. Local peasants and brave siege women fight bravely beside the rebels to the sounds of cannon fire and musket. Normal admission rates apply The Salmon of Knowledge June 9th – 15th 2014 A large scale production of a Traditional Irish Fable, The Salmon of Knowledge.

Orchard theatre present “The Salmon of Knowledge” the traditional Irish fable in a large scale spectacle incorporating, Circus skills, puppets, stilt-walkers, and fire performers. The Castle courtyard and towers form a dramatic backdrop to this exciting story presented over 7 days. Normal admission rates apply.

Celebrate Limerick City of Culture with Chapterhouse Outdoor Theatre's Jane Austen's 'Sense & Sensibility' at www.facebook.com/KingJohnsCastle King John's Castle July 20th at 6.30pm.

Bring your own picnic, champagne, seat and enjoy in the courtyard of the newly www.seniortimes.ie

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Senior Times May 2014 Page 37

The striking, ancient fir trees at Glasnevin, looking towards the award-winning museum refurbished King John's Castle. Available to book online at: www.shannonheritage.com The way we were

tractors, carts, dairy equipment and farming implements from bygone times.

But it’s not just tractors and machines… there’s also recreated workshops of traditional trades including blacksmith, cooper and wheelwright, an exhibition about The Great Famine, the history of Johnstown Castle, and a large display of Irish country furniture and farmhouse kitchens through the ages. Children can enjoy completing the ‘Peacock Trail’ which takes them round the whole museum and picks out some of the highlights along the way. www.irishagrimuseum.ie The spectacular ornamental gardens at Johnstown Castle are a delight for all and feature three lakes, a walled garden, a resident family of peacocks and the occasional red squirrel. A ‘treasure trail’ around the gardens is also available from the Museum.

The Irish Agricultural Museum, at Johnstown Castle in Wexford, has also had a high tech re-fit, and provides quite a few trips down memory lane, covering two centuries of Irish agriculture. It has one of the most comprehensive displays of farming and rural life in the country. Set over two floors there’s lots to see, learn, do and enjoy for all ages with a large collection of Page 38 Senior Times May/June 2014

The Museum, gardens, shop and tea room are open every day all year round and make a great day out for all ages – whatever the weather.

Special offer for readers of Senior Times magazine gives a reduced admission rate of €5 per person (gardens and museum) when arriving in a pre-booked group of 20 or more.

For full details of opening times and admission charges please see www.irishagrimuseum.ie or telephone 053 918 4671.

Glasnevin Museum – 1.5 million stories to tell As winners of Tripadvisor’s Traveller’s choice award in 2013, and listed as one of Dublin’s top 3 attractions, Glasnevin Museum proudly tells the story of modern Ireland through interactive exhibitions and engaging cemetery tours and delivered by personable, well informed guides affording visitors a heightened sense of understanding, and a deeper appreciation of its never forgotten residents.

Known locally as “The Dead Centre of Dublin”- Ireland’s largest Cemetery where the social, political and historical timeline of this great city is carved in stone. Irish icons like Collins, de Valera, Parnell, ‘Big Jim’ Larkin, Countess Markievicz, Brendan Behan and Luke Kelly rest peacefully in this original 1830’s Victorian garden cemetery. www.seniortimes.ie

Linked via gateway to the Botanic Gardens and voted number 1 attraction in Dublin (2013, Tripadvisor Travellers Choice Award), there are over 17,000 plants and 200 acres of beautiful parkland to enjoy. Key to Glasnevin’s success is the popularity of the tour guides whose enthusiasm is compelling.

With one and a half million stories buried in Glasnevin there’s no shortage of tales to tell.

Learn about the harsh realities of life in Dublin, eavesdrop on the stories of former gravediggers, touch the casket of Daniel O’Connell, or simply ponder the fascinating lives of those who walked these streets before us. Construction is underway to rebuild the winding wooden staircase that once ran up the centre the 168ft O’Connell tower monument in Glasnevin cemetery the tallest of its kind in Ireland. Visitors to the top will witness spectacular views of Dublin.

There are over 1.5 million people buried in Glasnevin Cemetery. Delving into this rich resource Glasnevin captivates the curious through special events, tours, re-enactments, orations, lectures, festivals, commemorations, exhibitions, poetry readings, bringing legend to life in dramatic fashion. A visit to Glasnevin is a must for anyone interested in the rich cultural texture of Dublin.

Celebrating history, heritage and culture, join this intriguing journey through Ireland’s past.

Did you know?

There are over 1.5 million people buried in Glasnevin’s Victorian Garden Cemetery. The Daniel O’Connell round Tower monument is the tallest of its kind in Ireland A guided tour of the cemetery includes a visit to Daniel O’Connell’s crypt Page 40 Senior Times May/June 2014

Glasnevin is home to the largest collection of Celtic crosses in the world Glasnevin won the 2013 Tripadvisor Travellers Choice Award and is consistently listed in the top three of best attractions in Dublin A pedestrian gateway between the world famous National Botanic Gardens and the Cemetery is open making it the second largest green space in Dublin with over 200 acres of mature parkland, and home to the largest collection of protected structures in the State.

City Sightseeing Bus tours now provide a hop on hop off bus service from the city centre.Guided tours all year with additional summer times, re-enactments, and special events – see website A genealogy voucher worth €5.00 with every ticket. Search your family tree, all records online.

Private and public tours available daily, special interest and educational groups welcome. Catering for ad hoc groups, private & public tours and serving breakfast, lunch & snacks throughout the day.

Shop and café - Browse the terrific collection of Irish crafts, jewellery, mementos, historical books, and other interesting gift items in the museum shop.

Address: Glasnevin Cemetery, Finglas Road, Dublin 11 Tel: 353 1-8826550 akilcoyne@glasnevintrust.ie www.glasnevinmuseum.ie booking@glasnevintrust.ie Open daily with two tours per day plus additional tours at 1 pm June - Sept & flexible times for pre-booked groups Booking contact: Carolyn Kelly Sales Manager: Ann Kilcoyne

Average Tour time: 1 hour Guided Tours: Max 40 – 50, Languages: English, Irish, French, German.

A range of tailor made tours available Car and coach Parking: On site and street parking available Public Transport: Bus no’s 40 & 140 from O’Connell St direct to door.

Hop-on-Hop-off Dublin City Sightseeing bus (blue route) from city centre/ Guinness Storehouse SatNav: Latitude/Longitude : 53.36981,6.277098 Opening Times: Open 7 days: Mon – Fri 10am to 5pm Sat/Sun/Bank Holiday: 11am to 5pm Tour times: 11.30, & 2.30 all year with extra 1pm tour, June - Sept) Re-enactments daily at 2pm, April – Oct. Tours include visit to Daniel O’Connell’s Crypt.

Admission Rates (Includes guided tour, museum entrance, and €5.00 genealogy voucher) Adults: €12.00 Children: €8.00 Senior/Students: €8.00 Family (2+2): €25.00 The Tower Café: Serves lunches and snacks throughout the day.

Museum Shop: There is a shop located at the entrance to the museum offering a wide range of Irish history books & literature, arts, crafts and gifts.

Parking details: There is on street and private parking within the grounds of the Cemetery Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, flickr, instagram, youtube.

Free Wifi in seated café area. www.seniortimes.ie

Travel

Newtownabbey: the perfect starting point of journey’s end

Newtownabbey is the gateway to one of the world’s greatest road journeys, the Causeway Coastal Route.

Situated on the idyllic shoreline of Belfast Lough, it provides the perfect stopping off point for visitors preparing to steer a path through this land of myth and majestic beauty With stunning scenery and a palpable sense of history, Newtownabbey and the surrounding area offers visitors a fascinating blend of old and new.

Nowhere exemplifies this more than the stunning Lough Shore Park, with fantastic five star caravan and camping facilities complementing the area’s natural resources.

Let the stresses of the world drift away as you wander along walkways with panoramic views of Belfast Lough, stop for a relaxing picnic by the water’s edge, or sample culinary delights in the on-site restaurant. State-of-the-art facilities in the Newtownabbey portfolio, such as Lough Shore Park and the Theatre at the Mill, sit comfortably alongside those celebrations of a bygone era.

The White House is a plantation bawn which dates back to the 16th century and features an exhibition on the Williamite and Jacobite wars. At Patterson’s Spade Mill, the last working water-driven spade mill in the British Isles, a guided tour lets visitors sample www.seniortimes.ie

the unique sights, sounds and smells of the Industrial Revolution. Transport yourself back in time to experience rural Ulster life at Sentry Hill. Or visit Museum At The Mill which tells the story of those who worked there from the 1800’s up to 1995.

For additional information contact: www.newtownabbey.gov.uk/visitors Senior Times May/June 2014 Page 41

Travel

Eileen Casey visits Las Palmas and La Gomera

The Canary Islands: The links with Irish shores

A typical street, San Sebastian Calle, in Gomer

An Irish sailor, William of Galway, who appears in Spanish records as Guillermo de Ires, natural de Galney, was thought to have accompanied Columbus, above, to America in 1492 and is documented as the first Irishman to travel to the New World.

Casa Colon, the house of Christopher Columbus in the Vaguetta area of Las Palmas While standing in the cobbled courtyard of Casa Colón (the house of Christopher Columbus) in the Vaguetta area of Las Palmas, I immediately thought of Galway City. Columbus had walked on both sets of cobbled streets, had known the weather of both places; the subtropical heat of The Canary Islands and also the vagaries of the Irish climate.

orange bills. These two places, so far from each other geographically are, however, forever twinned through their shared history with the famous navigator who discovered the New World after years of struggle and disappointment.

A local belief in Galway, holds that Columbus attended mass in St. Nicholas’s Church, possibly in 1477, prior to his first American voyage. Historian T.P. 0’Neill found a book Columbus had read while in Galway and where he had written in the margins, “We ourselves saw in Galway, Ireland, in two pieces of wood, a man and his wife of extraordinary visage.” It is thought that Columbus may have written this remark after seeing two Inuit (Eskimo) bodies that were found in a kayak that drifted across the Atlantic and shored up in West County Galway.

Columbus Museum As I looked at the glorious blue and red plumage of the parrots wandering freely at the Las Palmas Museum, I remembered the swans of the Claddagh, their pure white feathers and Page 42 Senior Times May/June 2014

The Columbus Museum in Las Palmas, replete with ornate doorways, latticed balconies and carved wooden ceilings, was www.seniortimes.ie

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Playa de las Arenas, La Gomer

Feathered friends at Casa Colón, Las Palmas

The Colombus Museum, Las Palmas

originally the residence of the first Governors. Columbus stayed there in 1492 while one of his ships was repaired.

Columbus first became obsessed with finding a western route to the Indies in 1474. The reason for the necessity of finding this route lay in the fall of Constantinople to the Turks in 1453 when the route from the Mediterranean to the east was closed off. This in turn destroyed the trade in spices for the merchants of Genoa and Columbus was Genoese. He first offered his scheme to sail to the Indies to Genoa but was turned down. Portugal’s King John 11 also refused to participate in the scheme. Columbus then left Portugal and went to live in Spain. Queen Isabella seemed interested at first but also rejected the plan. He was on the road to Cordova and a ship to France and the court of King Charles V11 when word reached him that Isabella had changed her mind.

The rest, as the saying goes, is history.

Columbus set sail four months later after persuading his crew to sail with him and having prepared the tiny squadron of three ships for sea: The Sancta Maria, The Pinta and The Nina, a 40 ton vessel with a crew capacity of 24 which made the ship the smallest of the three. It was difficult forming a crew because at that time, it was thought that the Indies lay in complete darkness and was at the edge of the world. The ships set sail in August, 1492 and on 12th October the cry went up, “Tierra, Tierra,” (“land,” “land,”). Columbus, richly dressed in scarlet, as befitted his new rank of Governor, was rowed ashore and kissed the beach before erecting the standard of Spain. He had landed on Watlings Island or San Salvador in the Bahamas.

The Museum at Las Palmas (Casa Colón) houses artefacts such as navigational instruments, maps and charts, paintings as well as a full size replica of a cabin of La Nina. Such display brings to mind the achievement of Columbus, against all odds Page 44 Senior Times May/June 2014

and his utter faith in his own abilities as a sailor/navigator.

There’s another piece of interesting historical data, however, which further links the great voyage of Columbus with Irish shores. An Irish sailor, William of Galway, who appears in Spanish records as Guillermo de Ires, natural de Galney, was thought to have accompanied Columbus to America in 1492 and is documented as the first Irishman to travel to the New World. William of Galway was among the forty men who stayed behind on the first settlement in the New World, named by Columbus as La Navidan in memory of the day his precious Sancta Maria was lost at sea on crashing waves. The loss of this ship meant that there wasn’t enough room to bring all the sailors home. Popular belief holds that William of Galway (who was known to possess an Irish Wolfhound) was more than likely ‘pressed’ into service. On 4th January, Columbus bade fairwell to La Navidan and set sail.

Unfortunately, when Columbus returned the following year, the settlement was no more, having succumbed to an attack by the natives. William of Galway was among those who had perished.

Galway memorial stone A memorial stone in Galway’s Spanish Parade claims that “On these shores, around 1477, the Genoese sailor Cristoforo Colombo found sure signs of land beyond the Atlantic. La Cittá di Genova alla Cittá di Galway, 29.V1.1992.”

In February 1927, Agatha Christie went to the Canaries to recover from psychological strain. Her mother, Clarissa Miller www.seniortimes.ie

The inviting view from the Gomer a Alajero Hotel

The people are very hospitable and there are so many ways to enjoy a holiday on any of the seven Canary Islands, a range of leisure pursuits that incorporate sand, sea, sports or just plain relaxation.

La Gomera The inviting view from the Gomer a Alajero Hotel

had died after a severe illness, her husband was in love with another woman and she was going through a period of financial difficulties. She stayed at the Gran Hotel Taoro in Puerto de la Cruz, the best hotel in Tenerife at that particular time. It is said that while there, Agatha Christie completed The Mystery of the Blue Train, a book which sold so well, it ended her money worries. She then relocated to Las Palmas de Gran Canaria where she stayed at the Metropole Hotel. There she wrote The Companion, one of the mysteries included in her collection of short stories, The Thirteen Problems. In The Companion, one of the characters says of the Canary Islands; “They must be wonderful,” while another makes the remark “The Peak of Tenerife is a fine sight with the setting sun on it”.

Having just returned from The Canary Islands, it’s easy to imagine a writer like Christie being so inspired by what she experienced, inspired enough to begin writing again. The light is so very different, almost golden in its brightness, one can’t but feel well. No wonder films such as Wonderful Life (a 1964 film starring Cliff Richard) was filmed on the famous sand dunes at Maspalomas. Painters too adore the quality of such glorious illumination. The islands are a Spanish archipelago located just off the northwest coast of mainland Africa and enjoy an all year round temperature of over twenty degrees. www.seniortimes.ie

Of all the islands, La Gomera is a personal favourite. My principal reason for visiting there was to admire the natural terrain but also, to walk in Garajonay National Park, the home of the lauisilva or laurel forest, formed by a multitude of different plant species. The park is made up of a wide variety of evergreen trees all thriving in an atmosphere of high humidity with a fairly constant year round temperature. On the southern slope, the forest is dominated mainly by heather and fayatrees, two species which are better able to cope with the dryer atmosphere. In places where mist tends to form you will often find tiny plants with twisted trunks that are completely covered in moss and lichen. The park is extremely accessible since it is crossed by numerous tracks, tracks and footpaths linking the various villages and hamlets scattered around the island.

I had heard of the health benefits of ‘Forest Bathing’, a concept which originated in Japan (where it’s called Shinriss-Yoku). Dr. Qing Li, one of the main researchers in this field, identified the healing ambience of walking in a forest as a huge boost for the immune system and a great way of lowering blood pressure. Inhaling the forest’s essential oils from wood and enjoying a range of sensory perceptions overall, leaves the forest ‘bather’ with renewed health benefits.

I’ve walked in forests in Ireland, Avondale Forest Park at Rathdrum, Co. Wicklow is exquisite. Birr Castle Demesne, Co Offaly, is one of my favourite places on the planet. It Senior Times May/June 2014 Page 45

The Garajonay National Trail Park has trails for everyone

boasts Ireland’s oldest tree, 200 years old, alas felled by storms early 2014. Avondale is noted for its exotic trees, including Hornbeam, Norway Sitka Spruce, European Oak and West Red Cider. Thanks to Augustine Henry (1851 – 1930), there is such a wide variety on offer. Henry was a pioneer when it came to realising the potential of scientifically managed forests. Yet, there’s something close to mystical about the experience of walking in Garajonay National Park.

The plateau that occupies the central highland area of La Gomera is, for most of the year, covered with a blanket of mist that is blown by the wind into different directions and often spills down into the Southern region of the island.

Shrouded and protected by this magical sea of clouds is the dense evergreen forest that is Garajoney. The wide variety of trees thriving here, exist in an atmosphere of high humidity with a fairly constant year round temperature. The more humid and sheltered valleys to the north contain the lushest part of the forest, a true subtropical jungle. In the higher altitudes the forest loses some of its more delicate species.

Queen of the Mountain (Ixanthus Viscosus), a woody bush with yellow flowers, grow in the shadier parts of the laurel forest.

The flora in this region is perfect for ‘Forest Bathing’ as it encompasses around twenty species of woodland plants and 47 endemic varieties. Indeed, the area’s original settlers were more forest people than village dwellers and survived by raising lifestock, collecting wood to make charcoal and using the natural properties of local plants to make healing infusions and hand-carving wooden utensils. Wildlife, despite being a little more difficult to see in the dense forest areas is nevertheless equally interesting.

mapped out through visual clues in the landscape; large pine trees, groves of eucalyptus. The most well trodden route, however, is to be found on the northern side of the Park.

One of the trails, from Cruz de Tierno to Vallehermoso by way of Cano rock, measures just over four and a half kilometres and makes for a very pleasant downhill stroll which takes around one and three-quarter hours. Cano rock is visible through most of the walk as it rises majestically into the sky.

The Park has four recreational areas and there is also a special area for campers. How did I feel after my walk in such lush surroundings? Wonderful. I felt I had indeed ‘bathed’ in beauty, totally restored in mind and body.

La Gomera cannot be reached directly by air from the European mainland. For most holiday-makers the journey therefore begins with a flight to the neighbouring island of Tenerife. Ferries to La Gomera leave from the south of the island.

The journey to La Gomera generally consists of: A flight to Tenerife-South, to the airport Reina Sofia (TFS) Ferry journey to La Gomera Transfer on the island to your destination or accommodation If on the other hand, you should land at Los Rodeos Airport (TFN) in Tenerife-North, you have the option of catching a connecting flight to La Gomera.

If time is no issue, then you may want to consider driving to the south of Spain and enjoying a multi-day sail to the island.

Garajonay walking trails

For more information on La Gomera and the other Canary Islands, contact:

All of the trails in Garajonay National Park are well mapped out, to include estimated time taken for the walk, its degree of climbing/descent and what natural delights are on offer for savouring. On the trail from Agando Rock to Santiago Beach by way of Benchijigua, for example, the geography of the walk is

Spanish Tourist Board, 1 Westmoreland Street, Dublin 2.

Tel: (003531) 6350200.

Email: dublin@tourspain.es www.spaininfo.es

Page 46 Senior Times May/June 2014

www.seniortimes.ie

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Advice from Active Retirement Ireland

We are living longer, but are we living healthier?

Active Retirement Ireland share their top tips for healthy ageing.

It’s Never Too Late to Make a Change It's never too late to start leading a healthier lifestyle. Even well into their 60s and 70s, adults can take action to reduce their risk of developing chronic disease. Making a slight change to your lifestyle could still have lasting, positive effects.

One of the biggest changes you could make is to cut out a bad habit. Do you eat junk food? Drink more than you should? Do you smoke? Quitting unhealthy habits will always have a positive impact on your life, no matter what age you are.

Yoga improves flexibility and can help relieve the discomfort of chronic conditions such as fibromyalgia and arthritis, health researchers have found.

Get Moving Experts agree. If there’s one sure-fire way to cut down your risk of chronic disease as you age, it’s to exercise regularly.

Exercise helps control body weight, lower your blood pressure and strengthen your muscles, which helps you avoid injuries by making you less likely to fall.

Watch Your Weight Sticking to a healthy weight by exercising and eating right has multiple benefits, studies show. If you can keep your weight down, you'll decrease your risk of diabetes, which affects about 143,000 people in Ireland, as well as certain types of arthritis, which hinders activity for about a million Irish people.

Doctors have noticed that people who start exercising late in life still notice huge improvement in their day-to-day lives. As well as feeling healthier, older people who increase their muscle mass can actually metabolise medicines much quicker.

If the idea of working out and gaining muscle mass sounds intimidating, don’t worry. You don’t have to get a gym membership and start weightlifting. Walking, dancing, even gardening or any mild exercise that gets your body moving is enough to have a beneficial effect. Go For Life is a series of exercises designed by Age & Opportunity for older people and Active Retirement groups nationwide are reaping the benefits of physical activity.

Be Flexible It’s hard to imagine how beneficial a little stretch first thing in the morning can be. Your muscles tend to shorten and stiffen when you aren't active, but stretching activities such as yoga or Pilates – or even a quick stretch in the morning – will improve your flexibility.

Page 48 Senior Times May/June 2014

Yoga teaches patients a set of techniques, such as breathing and meditation, in addition to incorporating poses that improve strength and balance. Any stretching is beneficial though, so if all you can manage is five minutes every morning, go for it.

One way to eat better is to eat more fruits and vegetables every day. We know now that people who eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables every day have lower blood pressure, lower rates of cardiovascular disease and cancer; they have a better immune response; usually they're leaner and have lower rates of diabetes and obesity.

If you don’t get enough fruit and veg in your diet, the solution could be as simple as adding an extra vegetable to your dinner, or keeping a bowl of fruit on hand as an alternative to the biscuit with your next cuppa.

Prevention is better than Cure Preventive measures, such as getting a yearly flu shot and getting screened for breast, cervical and colorectal cancers, are also important for growing older in good health.

Keeping an eye on other disease indicators, such as high blood www.seniortimes.ie

pressure and the early stages of diabetes can also make a difference in terms of the degree of disability people experience later in life. While you cannot prevent many diseases, you can certainly take steps to prevent the disability that comes from not treating a disease properly.There are also preventive steps to reduce the severity of arthritis, which is the nation's most common disability, affecting almost a million adults, about half of them younger than 65. By staying educated about the disease, avoiding further joint injury and keeping physically active, you can ease the effects of arthritis. Once you have arthritis, regular exercise can help reduce the pain you get and the symptoms; that may seem counterintuitive, but it’s well-documented that it does help.

Believe in Better A 2006 study in the United States found that regular church attendance can add between 1.8 and 3.1 years to a person’s life. It is believed that the act of prayer or meditation, as well as other spiritual activities, leads to decreased stress.

You don’t have to be religious or spiritual, however, to benefit. Another study of 1,000 older men and women showed that those who described themselves as ‘happy’ were up to 55% less likely to die an untimely death from chronic disease or heart failure than pessimists. Whether you derive happiness from a higher power or from those around you, if you're more optimistic, you're more positive; you're going to do better, you're going to feel better.

Be Good to Others A recent longitudinal study followed 10,000 graduates of an American University from 1957 to 2011. The findings showed that those who volunteered out of a desire to help others had lower mortality rates than people did not volunteer at all.

1.6% of the altruistic volunteers had passed away, compared to 4.3% of those who did not volunteer. Irish research has also found significant benefits in volunteering. In 2012, the Irish Centre for Social Gerontology in NUI Galway found that older www.seniortimes.ie

people who volunteered with their local Active Retirement groups reported significantly better health than the average for their age.

Volunteering can be a way to reduce the stress of having to retire from a job you loved, it can keep you healthy and active, and it can be a lot of fun. Most importantly, it makes other people happy, and the good feeling you get from that can be worth all the effort.

Manage Your Own Health Researchers from the Harvard School of Public Health defined good overall health as having no major chronic diseases such as heart disease or diabetes and having no major cognitive and physical impairment or mental health limitations. The only way to ensure this happens is to See your health care provider regularly and follow his or her recommendations for screening and preventative measures. You also need to take responsibility for all the risk factors in your own life. Get active and get healthy!

To find out more about getting active with Active Retirement Ireland, visit www.activeirl.ie or phone 01-8733836

Discover how to stay healthy in older age at the first ever Active Retirement Ireland Marigold Festival, in association with Home Instead Senior Care. These free events will take place in the following locations: Tower Hotel, Waterford – Tuesday May 13th Tullamore Court Hotel – Thursday June 5th Greenhills Hotel, Limerick – Tuesday June 24th Gleneagle Hotel, Killarney – Wednesday June 25th Celebrate active and healthy ageing with Active Retirement Ireland and Home Instead Senior Care Senior Times May/June 2014 Page 49

Energy costs

Power to the people?

Aine O’Connor has been examining what’s on offer in the ‘energy price war’

The energy price war during March and April this year was like a sudden burst of sunshine for beleaguered homeowners juggling monthly bills. Originally, Bord Gais invited new customers to make the ‘One Big Switch’ to its special electricity price, attracting over 54,000 signatories to its ‘people power’ group discount, more than doubling its initial target of 20,000 sign-ups and sparking a bolt of lightning changeovers throughout the whole country.

The next buzz of excitement came from Energia. It’s been consolidating its traditional role as a supplier to Irish businesses with its recent entry into the residential market, and it upped the ante by responding with a price cut for those taking both gas and electricity from it.

Anyone who only had electricity bills to play with (rather than the laughing-allthe-way-to-the-dual-fuel-supersaversclub, who had the double whammy of gas and electricity for leverage), may have felt briefly that they were getting the cold shoulder.

But then Electric Ireland turned up the heat with an offer of €50 off your EI bill.

Although it excluded its estimated 1.2 million existing customers (Electric Page 50 Senior Times May/June 2014

Ireland is the retail part of the ESB), unlike other suppliers’ offers that cut off on April 17, EI’s was open till the end of the month. Its €50 is to be applied to your first or second bill, while the €80 switchover bonus offered by One Big Switch is deferred till the end of your year-long contract. However, the €80 cashback offer was in conjunction with another sweetener in Bord Gais’s deal of a further 10 per cent discount on its electricity supplies.

By the end of the first week in April the best deal was with Electric Ireland for electricity only, which was marginally better than One Big Switch’s offer – €6 a year based on the average household’s consumption of electricity – and with a combination of Electric Ireland and Flogas for a dual fuel deal. The EI/Flogas deal is based on the Value Saver annual cost of €1,008 for electricity and the Flogas Optimiser of €852, giving you a possible saving of €332 over the course of your year’s bills, pipping the next best dual fuel offer from Energia by €44 – Energia’s offer pictured a 17 per cent discount on standard electricity rates and 16 per cent on gas. I say ‘pictured’ as unless you’re living in the average three-bedroom house, using the average amounts of gas and electricity, your annual electricity costs may be significantly above the best value quoted of

roughly €1,000 a year, or combined heat and power far greater than Electric Ireland and Flogas’s estimated €1,860.

There is fine print in some of the deals that recoup the deposit or carrot of cashback if you cannot complete the duration of the deal you sign up for. You could forfeit €50 in breaking a service contract with your supplier in some instances so it’s worthwhile spending time on your service provider’s website to see what the specific bonuses are tied to.

This flurry of customisable deals on utility prices has offered householders a wealth of options that need to be carefully considered as it locks one or two of your bills into a direct debit mandate, that is spreading the cost of your winter utilities relatively evenly over what we like to call the summer months when heating bills automatically reduce.

But the joy of the competitive market is that it allows suppliers to tailor their product to customer’s needs, says SSE Airtricity spokesman, Jason Cook. And while the cost is very often the dealmaker for families on fixed incomes, it’s not the only one.

“Discounted fuel and power based on direct debit is popular with our www.seniortimes.ie

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customers too,” he told Senior Times.

“About 92 per cent of our customers are on direct debit, we automatically apply discounts for customers on ebill and direct debit; if it’s a lower cost for us we pass that on to the customer.

scheme is administered by An Post. You may not have to change your supplier if your circumstances change, you can contact the company to see how having a PAYG meter installed affects your existing pricing plan.

“Some older customers like the paper bill, but there’s a growing number of silver surfers. Our online platform allows the customer to look at their energy use; top up online, and we actively encourage customers to submit meter readings as they get a really good sense of how their usage is trending.”

He says that just over half of SSE Airtricity’s interactions with customers are online; through smart phones, offering the same access to control of their power and heat bills to consumers while remaining the greenest electricity provider, “as per the latest fuel mix disclosure”.

If you’re talking to the kids about them moving home, or thinking of ways to keep your bills roughly as they have been or less, have a look at two other new utility services working throughout Ireland. Prepaypower.ie and Pinergy.ie.

Both of these companies participated in the development of the services CER mediated since 2005 and can install the meter in your home for no upfront costs.

Book an installation and usually within five working days there’s a meter attached to your fuse board and you top up using a keypad.

Whether you’re a silver surfer spending most of the year here, or acquiring a golden glow while boating on the Camargue, the convenience of ebilling can be altogether less attractive when your circumstances take a sudden turn towards the worrying. Getting the bill was never a problem in the history of humanity. Paying it remains the trick.

Maybe your fab fifties are temporarily tarnished with a three-day week instead of your usual five, or perhaps your pride and joy’s terrific thirties are not panning out as they’d allowed for and they’ve moved home. Thrilled though you are to help, see the grandkids more often, you get the inkling there could be trouble ahead.

Although the roll-out of Pay As You Go meters has been a resounding success for those with arrears, the new gadgetry allowing flexibility in service contracts could be an option for you.

If you haven’t already availed of the various deals promoted in March and April because you’re waiting for a current contract to expire, have a look at either of two great cost comparison sites uswitch.ie and bonkers.ie. Not only can they give you updates on the most current electricity or gas prices, there are sections on it for services you may be in a position to avail of now while you’re putting all the elements of your new residential arrangements in place.

As a state pensioner your electricity allowance is to all intents and purposes administered by Electric Ireland and factored into whichever supplier’s bills you’re paying, as a social welfare recipient the new household budget Page 52 Senior Times May/June 2014

Prepaypower.ie says its service contract, which is for a year, includes a tolerance of €5 over and above what you’ve paid into it, so its daily billing of the minimum charge will keep the power on for about five to six days after your credit runs out.“There’s a Public Service Obligation levy coming off the meter every day, regardless of your supplier and our charges will be 89c or €1.02 daily,” a spokesperson told Senior Times.

Pinergy.ie offers similar services in that you can buy credit in various shops, online or over the phone, and you can pre-pay either weekly or monthly.

You’ll have an idea already what your monthly bills are and this new way of paying them means you have the option of reducing what recurring charges you clock up. If you’re in a building or have living arrangements where you can avail of the night saver meter, doing your laundry at night when the national grid’s less drawn-upon could be the solution to a sudden increase in your usage (where it had been just you and your partner’s washing, now it’s another three or four wash cycles a week).

“Switch off all appliances that aren’t in use,” adds a Prepaypower.ie spokeswoman, adding that you could be paying €20 euro a week on appliances that are on stand-by, such as game consoles, TVs, or computers/phones charging while you’re out.

“The meter gives the bill-payer a chance to monitor these things and plugging out what you can becomes so second-nature you don’t even think about it.”

While getting all the family members to become more energy conscious can cause a heat of its own, having the Pay

As You Go meter installed means you don’t have to nag your kids and grandkids, or chase them for cash contributions to the household budget when the bill is due.

The other leading Pay As You Go meter installation company, pinergy.ie, also has a room by room guide to suggested energy savings. And you can revert to normal bill paying once your need for shared energy awareness moves back to what your monthly budget allows.

You may have waited to sign up for a new energy supplier’s best deals until after the summer? Especially if you’ve deferred cost-saving home improvements during the short, wet days.

Getting spot repairs done altogether to take advantage of the last budget’s extension relief definitely needs how you’ll use and heat the new space to be factored into your plans, as does keeping an eye on your BER rating, so approaching an independent energy consultant who’s well-versed in insulation values, is worthwhile before you commit your family to next winter’s round of higher heat and power needs.

The role of the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER)

As it says on the tin, the Commission for Energy Regulation (CER) oversees the bigger players in our domestic energy supply, and has been mediating between the public bodies ESB and Bord Gais, and established names like Airtricity and Flogas, the new entrants in the market and advocates for consumers, effecting holding the reins on the deregulation process that’s been partially happening since 2000, and fully open since 2005.

CER’s Andrew Ebrill told Senior Times: “We’ve credited uswitch.ie and bonkers.ie as cost comparison sites and they’ll provide tariff options for customers. We’ve also accredited Prepaypower and Pinergy,” adding that PAYG meters are an option that’s working well for thousands of Irish householders.

“As CER we wouldn’t recommend one over the other, that’s for the market to decide.”

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Health

Complete this eye health survey and you could win a two day break for two, with a dinner, in a region of your choice in Ireland Eye doctors recommend that all adults have a comprehensive dilated eye exam and eye pressure check by the age 40, the time when early signs of disease and changes in vision may start to happen. The eye doctor may also recommend a visual field examination.

For people age 60 and older, the ICO recommends having a comprehensive eye exam every 1-2 years, or as directed by their GP or eye doctor.

For more information on eye health, visit www.eyedoctors.ie. general eye health.

Tips from the eye doctors for healthy vision: Consider eyes health as part of an overall good health - Understand the impact of other diseases on the eyes.

The eyes are extraordinarily complex.

They contain pigmented cells, a rich network of blood vessels, and connective tissue; and the eye's retina is actually a part of the brain. Therefore, many systemic diseases such as diabetes, sleep apnoea, various tumour’s, hypertension, sickle cell disease, lupus, and many others can affect the eyes and threaten vision. Anyone with concerns should visit their GP who can refer you to an eye doctor for medical examination.

Exercise – Our eyes need good blood circulation and oxygen intake, and both are stimulated by regular exercise. Lack of exercise contributes significantly to several eye conditions, particularly amongst people aged 60 and over. Being physically active also helps in maintaining weight in a normal range, which reduces the risk of diabetes and diabetic retinopathy, which is a serious eye complication related to that disease.

Don't smoke – Avoiding smoking or quitting altogether is one of the best investments a person can make in their long-term health. Smoking increases the risks of a variety of diseases, including those that affect the eye such as cataracts and diabetic-related conditions. After ageing, smoking is the biggest factor for developing Age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Page 54 Senior Times May/June 2014

Know Your Family Eye Health History – Certain eye conditions can be hereditary, such as glaucoma. When detected early, it can be treated and controlled and therefore it would be very beneficial to know if this condition has been in your family so you can be tested.

Protect Your Eyes at Work and at Play – One of the best investments in eye health is to be sure to protect them with proper eye wear, whether it's enjoying a day in the sun, playing sports or doing household jobs, be safe with your eyes at all times.

Get Regular Eye Exams – Healthy adults who do not notice anything obviously wrong with their eyes should still have their eyes tested every two years.

Eye Doctors recommend that adults with no signs or risk factors for eye disease get a baseline eye disease screening at age 40, which is typically the approximate time when early signs of disease and changes in vision may start to occur.

Individuals at any age with symptoms or who are at risk for eye disease, such as those with a family history of eye disease, diabetes or high blood pressure should see their eye doctor to determine how frequently their eyes should be examined.

How to make an appointment to see an Eye Doctor If you have a concern about your eye health it is important to have your eyes examined by an eye doctor. For an appointment to see any medical specialist working in the HSE, including eye doctors, you need to get a referral from your General Practitioner (GP). A GP has knowledge of the specialists in his/her area and can ensure that any important information relating to your medical history is passed to the eye doctor.

While it is advisable to seek a referral from your GP many eye doctors working in the community will give you an appointment directly - see eye doctors in Ireland.

Senior Times are delighted to link with the Irish College of Ophthalmologists, the body for eye doctors in Ireland, in encouraging the public to understand the importance of vision and overall eye health to their general wellbeing, particularly as we age and for those in the higher risk categories.

Now complete the survey Eye Doctors of Ireland ask ‘How Are Your Eye’s Feeling?’

The Irish College of Ophthalmologists (ICO) is the body for eye doctors and the experts on medical eye care in Ireland.

The ICO is dedicated to promoting and maintaining standards of excellence in eye care. We do this by educating eye doctors in training, providing on-going education for eye doctors in practice, giving accurate medical advice to the public and policy guidance to the government.

We would be very grateful if you could complete this short survey to help the College gain a greater insight into the public's awareness of eye health.

• Are you Male Female • Your age group Under 40 40-50 years 51-60 years 61-70 years Over 70 • Do you have sight loss?

Yes No • If yes, what is the cause of your sight loss?

Family condition Diabetes Smoking Age-related Macular Degeneration Glaucoma Cataracts Long or short sighted Accident Other (please specify) • When was your last eye test?

1 year ago or less 2 years ago More than 3 years ago I’ve never had my eyes tested www.seniortimes.ie

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• If you are over 50, how often do you think it’s advised that you should have your eyes tested?

Every year Every 2 years Every 3 years Only if I notice a change in my eyes Only if I need to do a driving test • Eye doctors recommend that healthy adults over 50 should have their eyes tested every 2 years. People in the higher risk categories, such as diabetics and those with a family history of eye conditions, need to have an annual eye examination in order to catch early symptoms.

If you have not had your eyes tested in the recommended timeframe, is it because: I have had my eyes tested in the recommended timeframe I did not know how often I should have my eyes tested I can see fine so didn’t think it was necessary My eyes don’t hurt me I don’t wear glasses I haven’t found the time I am concerned about the cost I’m worried I might have a sight problem Other (please specify) • Do you know the difference between an ophthalmologist and an optometrist?

Yes No • An ophthalmologist is an eye doctor and an optometrist is an optician.

Do you feel there is confusion amongst the public in relation to the terminology used for eye care professionals, i.e. being able to distinguish between the eye care role of an ophthalmologist, optometrist, orthoptist and optician?

Yes No • If you had a concern about your eye sight or eye health, who would you most likely visit first?

Eye Doctor / Ophthalmologist GP Optician Hospital Don’t know • Which of the following factors do you think affect your eye health the most, marking 1 beside the factor affecting eye health the most and 6 beside the least; Smoking Age Page 56 Senior Times May/June 2014

Family history Healthy diet and good exercise High Blood Pressure High Cholesterol • Do you know your family’s eye health history?

Yes No • Do you smoke?

Yes No • Do you have a family member with a sight impairment that has been caused by an eye disease such as glaucoma or age-related macular degeneration (AMD)?

Yes No Yes, but early detection and treatment prevented sight loss Don’t know Other (please specify) • Are you aware of the increased risk of age-related visual impairment for people over 50?

believe stronger regulation of Medical Advertising Standards in Ireland must be introduced in order to protect patient safety and ensure patients are fully informed before undertaking a medical or surgical procedure.

We would like to hear your opinion on the following two questions: • Have you witnessed (or been exposed to) medical advertising in Ireland which you believe to have been misleading to the consumers?

Yes No Comment • Would you like to see more being done to protect and inform the public in the area of medical advertising standards and guidelines on such from the medical professionals?

Yes No Don’t know On behalf of the Irish College of Ophthalmologists, thank you for taking this survey. For more information on eye health please visit our website www.eyedoctors.ie

Yes No • Have you ever been tested for AMD? Yes No • Would you know the signs or symptoms to be aware of for AMD? Yes No • Do you have diabetes?

Yes No • If yes, are you aware of the increased risk of eye complications and the importance of annual eye tests to detect early symptoms of eye disease?

Yes No • If you are diabetic, have you had your eyes screened for diabetic retinopathy?

For further information, contact: Ciara Keenan, Communications Manager, Irish College of Ophthalmologists Tel: 01 402 2777 / 086 369 4427 E: Ciara.keenan@eyedoctors.ie

Send your completed survey, with your name and contact details, to:

Eye Survey, Senior Times, Unit 1, 15 Oxford Lane, Ranelagh, Dublin 6.

The first entry drawn is the winner.

Deadline for receipt of entries is June 30th.

Yes No • Is sight loss preventable?

Yes No Medical Advertising Standards The Irish College of Ophthalmologists

IMPORTANT: This survey is totally confidential. If you do not wish to disclose your name, your telephone number or email address is sufficient for you to be contacted should you be the winner of the prize. www.seniortimes.ie

Be Healthy! Be Happy!

Get Active!

Find us at the Senior Times Active Over 50s Show Visit www.activeirl.ie or call 01 8733836 @activeirl

Travel

Cotswold characters In the latest in her travels through literary Ireland and Britain, Lorna Hogg visits the Cotswolds in England.

The beauty of the Cotswolds, with its steep sided lush valleys dotted with sheep, its medieval wool towns and old stone villages has attracted visitors for generations and have also inspired artists and writers. Laurie Lee, author of the televised best seller, Cider With Rosie, Joanna Trollope and the ever popular Jilly Cooper are just a few who have transferred the beauty of the landscape into their books.

Cotswold memories 2014 is the centenary of the birth of Laurie Lee, whose childhood in the Slad Valley, near Stroud, inspired his coming of age book, the classic Cider With Rosie. Lee’s soldier father did not return after the First World War, and the child moved from Stroud with his mother and five siblings, to Slad, the small remote village where “the horse was king.’’

His experiences of growing up there, along with the local characters, festivals, the village school and church, and idyllic summer playtime in the valley are all recorded.

However, he also recalls the cold, the poverty, violence, harsh teachers, drunkenness, closing of village ranks in times of trouble with the law. Nor does he overlook the dangers and attitudes towards children which in our times would be unacceptable.

Much of his young world disappeared with that war – the overcrowded living conditions, the hand pumped water and cooking over wood fires, the influence of the local squire, and old memories of coach travel. Some of it is timeless – neighbourhood feuds, plus of course, his own Page 58 Senior Times May/June 2014

The Woolpack where Laurie Lee was a regular

Laurie Lee in later life with his inevitable glass of cider

Slad village, home of Laurie Lee

emotional development, aided by cider and Rosie.

Unsurprisingly, Lee went on to lead an eventful life. A keen violinist, when he left Slad as a young man he walked to London, and busked for a living, as well as working as a labourer. He spent time in Spain during the Civil War, became a journalist, worked in films and was awarded an OBE for his work as chief caption writer during the Festival of Britain. He personal life was no less adventurous, with various love affairs, a marriage and two daughters. He wrote several books and poetry, but it was the success of `Cider With Rosie’ which allowed a return to buy a cottage in Slad, where he became a familiar figure at the local Woolpack pub until his death in 1997. www.seniortimes.ie

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The ‘Aga Saga Queen’ Joanna Trollope

Jilly Cooper

You can easily explore Slad’s beauty – just check www.walktheaa.com for details. It’s possible to walk down from the main road into the valley, past the old mills and up again by the lanes, to the pub and church where Lee is buried.

A country writer Joanna Trollope was born in the rectory in 1943 at picture postcard town Minchinhampton, where her grandfather was Rector. Through school, Oxford and a varied working life, her memories of the Cotswolds stayed with her. ``Being born somewhere with a strong local sense, like the Cotswolds, gave me not just a strong sense of rootedness, but a capacity to value landscape and weather and the rich life of smallish communities.’’ Despite several historical novels and other writing, The `Queen of the Aga Saga’ has long been associated with country settings in such popular contemporary novels as A Village Affair, A Passionate Man’and of course, The Rector’s Wife. Later dramatised by Channel 4, it gave her best-seller status.

Larks in Larkshire….

Jilly Cooper has lived in the Cotswolds for some thirty years, and many of her collection of saucy best sellers – including Polo, Rivals’, Apassionata, and more recently, Jump! are set in the area. Born in 1937 in London, Jilly, a journalist in the 1960s and 1970s, contributed to The Sunday Times and the Daily Mail, and also wrote fiction. In the 1980s, she and her husband Leo and two children, moved to Bisley. It is a lovely steep sided country village near Stroud, complete with narrow country roads and laneways and names like Hay Hedge Lane.

Inspiration was literally outside the window. Her home overlooks Toadsmoor Valley - one of her most famous creations, Rupert Campbell Black, lives in Frogsmore Valley, in a house very similar to Jilly’s home. Life has tested The Jolly Super author recently however, with a minor stroke and the lingering illness of her husband Leo, who died last year.

Page 60 Senior Times May/June 2014

Nailsworth

Stroud High Street

The Crown Inn by the war memorial in the picturepostcard village of Minchinhampton

www.seniortimes.ie

Quote from Memorial Window in Holy Trinity Church, Slad…..

“I

remember too, the light on the slopes. Long shadows in tufts and hollows, with cattle brilliant as painted china, treading their echoing shapes. Bees blew like cake crumbs through the golden air, white butterflies like sugared wafers, and when it wasn’t raining a diamond dust took over which veiled and yet magnified all things.’’

Laurie Lee `Cider with Rosie…’

Touring the Cotswolds Beautiful in all seasons, the Cotswolds are perfect for short breaks. Check www.cotswolds.com for details of a range of vintage and modern touring routes, with market days and places to eat, visit and stay. It is possible to do some touring by train and bus, but cars allow you to fit in more. `Cotswolds South – Vintage and Modern’ is perfect for flights to Bristol, or train journeys up from Heathrow to Stroud, as well as car hire.

From Bristol, take the A432 and join the A46 at Chipping Sodbury. Allow time for the foodie town of Nailsworth.

William’s Fish Market and Food Hall is justly famed, and Hobbs House Bakery and café is ideal for snacks and meals. It’s a worthwhile detour to Minchinhampton, a picture postcard town, before heading for the old wool town of Stroud, encircled by five Cotswold valleys.

Set against glorious scenery, Stroud has history, walks and a thriving artistic community. There are galleries, walks, cafes and restaurants, regular festivals, shopping, markets and even fame as the world’s fist Bee Guardian Town - no pesticides, please, but plenty of pollinating plants to keeps them buzzing.

Try local delicacies, Winstones ice cream and Stroud real ale, as well as Star Anise Café. Vintage lovers can visit `Time After Time’ or The Shambles Market, whilst sightseers can stroll the historical trail. The B4070 will take you to Slad Valley, while Parliament Street leads to the Old Bisley Road. Pretty Painswick, Queen of the Cotswolds, is a must-see. Visit its ancient church with legendary yew trees, wool merchants’ houses and inns dating from the 1600s, as well as old mills on the valley floor.

The A419 to Cirencester allows for a stop at the Lavender Bakehouse, a popular café and gift shop just a few miles from Stroud. Cirencester has Roman origins (the Corinium Museum is worth a visit) and its own large park, which hosts polo matches. There is plenty of shopping, and excellent food. Try www.seniortimes.ie

The Fleece, next door to the lovely old coaching inn of that name. The Old Bakehouse is one of the best and most popular B&Bs, with snug rooms and is well placed for exploring. There are also excellent hotels nearby, from Best Western Mayfield House to the Cotswold Water Park Four Pillars.

Cirencester’s location offers plenty of choices. It’s easy to get to Kemble, and trains to Reading for Heathrow and London.

You could also extend your stay by travelling north and visiting some of the classically picturesque Cotswold towns, e.g.

Burford and Bibury. Its Regency elegance, restaurants and top shops make Cheltenham another alternative, considering its train links to Birmingham and Bristol. Alternately, you could drive south via Tetbury, which bristles with antique shops, restaurants and pubs serving good food -The Snooty Fox and the King’s Arms are just two. This route will then take you past the magnificent Arboretum at Westonbirt, past the estate of Badminton down to Bath Spa, within easy reach of Bristol. www.cotswolds.com Senior Times May/June 2014 Page 61

Health

What is the difference between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia? are, so that they can be proactive about their own health.

Most of the factors emerging are good for your heart and general health anyway so there aren’t any side effects and adopting them should improve your general health.

Brain health

Dr Sabina Brennan explains the NEIL Programme being developed at Trinity College, Dublin Failing mental function prevents millions of older adults from living independently. The goal of the NEIL Programme is to enable independent living and improve quality of life by: conducting research aimed at dementia prevention and cognitive enhance. One in 85 people will have AD and 43% of those will require a high-level of care. While care giving can be rewarding it can also have negative consequences on the care giver’s physical, psychological wellbeing and may possibly even impact on their cognitive function.

At NEIL we are working to develop scalable interventions to maintain cognitive function in later life. We are committed to engaging adults in an educational-preventative context in the hope that we can help to change brain health behaviors and empower people to extend independent living. We believe that science is for sharing. Knowledge is power. And rather than just speaking to other scientists about our research we aim to move beyond the niche audiences of science journals and conference and engage with the general public. We hope to empower through education in order to enhance brain function and enable independent living. There are currently 35.6 million globally living with dementia. This figure is set to double by 2020, and triple by 2050. That’s 7.7 million new cases each year. That’s one new case every 4 seconds. One in 85 will have AD and 43% of those will require a high-level of care. The NEIL programme focuses mainly on prevention and on delaying the onset of the disease. At NEIL it is believed that risk and protective factors can be identified through research – epidemiological evidence already exists, some more randomised controlled trials are needed. The link between smoking and lung cancer was noticed before the randomized control trials provided the hard evidence. For dementia the relationships have been identified now we just need to get hard evidence from RCTs but we believe that the general public should know now what these risk and protective factors are so that they can be proactive about their own health. Most of the factors emerging are good for your heart and general health anyway so there aren’t any side effects and adopting them should improve your general health.

Key messages Our DeStress study is currently looking at the impact of stress on those caring for a spouse with dementia. The global cost of dementia in 2010 was $604 billion (1% of global GDP ) Dementia care currently costs more than cancer, stroke and cardiac care combined yet receives only 5% of the funding allocated to cancer research. Dementia is a global health and economic emergency.

The NEIL programme focuses mainly on prevention and on delaying the onset of the disease. At NEIL it is believed that risk and protective factors can be identified through research – epidemiological evidence already exists, some more randomised controlled trials are needed. The link between smoking and lung cancer was noticed before the randomised control trials provided the hard evidence. For dementia the relationships have been identified now it is necessary to get hard evidence from RCTs but we believe that the general public should know now what these risk and protective factors Page 62 Senior Times May/June 2014

There are a number of key messages that we need to get across to the general public so that they can begin to be proactive about their own brain health: 1 - Cognitive decline is not inevitable: While there are some changes with age they are not as severe as once thought. The brain remain relatively healthy and functions well. Disease is the cause most severe decline. In the absence of disease as we grow older we can expect to experience some decline in the formation of memories of recent events, a general slowing in our cognitive functioning and some failures of attention.

2. The brain is plastic and can change even in late life.

The brain constantly changing, our behaviour and experiences can help shape it at any age. It was once thought that from birth the brain was set like concrete. But thanks to scientific advancement we now know that the brain can be re-moulded www.seniortimes.ie

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Fun in the Sun starts with Sun Park Living. his is a lifestyle concept that is exclusively for those over 50, the ‘Sun Rockers,’ the name we have chosen for those who are now in semi or fully retirement, and intent on having fun and making the most of the time that their hard work has bought them! Unique in Europe, this is the place for those who want to share their extended breaks under the warm sun with other likeminded people. These masters of reinvention are starting out again, on a well-deserved life of leisure. They make every minute count. And for those on their own, Sun Park Living is the perfect way to make sure that they never feel lonely. Days are filled with sun and laughter and the warmth of new friendships, as everyone enjoys the time they spend at the resort. Making the choice to spend your extended break at Sun Park Living Resort offers the best of both worlds, the excitement and relaxation of a holiday environment, and the feeling of safety and security, that a friendly community and a home-away-from-home can offer, where many friendships are made that last a life time, and a lot of fun and entertainment is had.

As a ‘Sun Rocker,’ every guest is invited to make their mark and to bring their special talents and touches to the community. In this way, just like a large extended family, everyone has something to offer and to enjoy in the company of other ‘Sun Rockers’.

The ‘Sun Rockers’ community makes full use of all the resort facilities and can explore new activities or just spend time enjoying things they never seemed to have had the time to do back home. You only need to take a look at the extensive testimonials and videos posted on the website and facebook (www.sunparkliving.com/video and https://www.facebook.com/sunparkliving) So, if you think that you might have something to offer to our community, or if you would just enjoy being one of the gang in our unique holiday destination in the sun, and if you would like to enjoy a home from home with the ‘Sun Rocker’ element, where you can be yourself without the stresses and strains of everyday life, we are waiting to meet you! The community initiates all our activities, including further refurbishments and decorations, all inspired by our community. Activities that our ‘Sun Rockers’ enjoy include impromptu al fresco dinners as they watch the sun go down on another perfect day, listening to laughter ringing in the air. For the green fingered there is gardening or those aspiring to ‘living like a local’ there are Spanish lessons.

There is retail therapy, nights out at the movies and group walks, so something for everyone. Your only complaint is likely to be too much choice!

Since our ‘Sun Rockers’ are usually so full of energy there is tennis on a hard court, a sand volleyball, a mini golf and petanca area. To cool down afterwards there are salted water pools surrounded by wonderful mature

T

gardens. The activities on offer are very affordable or free of charge, and nothing is compulsory - except enjoying yourself.

The Sun Park Living Resort is a no strings attached resort. You will not be bombarded with sales pitches, nor is this a time-share in disguise. You will not have to sign any kind of contract and there will be no hidden extras such as unexpected maintenance bills. We are simply a new way of enjoying an extended break in the sun that is affordable, flexible and risk-free. You can enjoy your break free of the obligations that come with owning your own property abroad and our reasonable rental charges will mean that you do not need to remortgage or raise extra finance to fund your lifestyle at Sun Park Living Resort.

Sun Park Living Resort is a gated community that is closed to the public during the week, and open to everyone only on Fridays. It is this day that all the Sun Rockers in

Lanzarote have the chance to get together to socialise and make new friends over a cup of tea or coffee. The event is a very popular one, held ongoingly every week. Do visit us during Social Fridays at Sun Park Living, is held each Friday between 10.30am and 2pm, at Calle Janubio 3, Playa Blanca.

Our rates are transparent and up front, quoted rates are per self-catering and self-service apartment, not per person (1 or 2 semi or fully retired adults per apartment): • Tasters week €250 per week • 4 weeks stays and longer, significantly discounted, at: €156 per week. (Minimum stay required, term and conditions apply) Rates Include: • Rate is per apartment (over 50’s x 2) • All utility bills included • Complimentary Wi Fi - British/German Satellite TV • In room Safe • Luggage Store • Resort Parking • General Upkeep of the common areas and maintenance • Rate is fixed not seasonal So all you need to do now is to check availability at Sun Park Living’s website, book your flight and let us know when you are arriving!

www.sunparkliving.com Tel. +44 (0) 161 408 3360 Mob. +34 620 172 318

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throughout life. In fact the brain bends and adapts when faced with challenges such as disease, injury or infection.

3 Cognitive reserve offers protection against decline.

Science tells us that some individuals can maintain better brain function than others even in the face of diseases like Alzheimer’s. Science tells us that two individuals can have the pathology of Alzheimer’s disease but only one manifests the symptoms of the disease. At NEIL we are interested in why this is why is one individual able to live independently even with the disease in their brain while the other experiences the terrible decline in cognitive function that we associate with Alzheimer’s disease. Science also tells us that this resilience linked to lifestyle factors.

Our short films and our websites present scientific information in easy to understand and surprisingly entertaining bite-sized chunks. We proved knowledge, and offer practical advice. In addition we are keen to address the stigma associated with both dementia and ageing. Our final key messages is that it is possible and important to be proactive about brain health.

While it is not possible to do anything about some risk factors like, age, family history and Down syndrome, it is within our power to address other risk factors like smoking, excess drinking, mid-life high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes and loneliness /social isolation.

Social isolation is a risk factor. In Ireland we have little inter-generational contact and our social circles tend to diminish with age as our friends and family die in later life. At NEIL we are currently developing an intervention aimed at targeting social isolation and are looking for volunteers so if you feel at risk for isolation and would like to hear more about the study then please contact us (See Active retirement AGM regarding Irish Centre for Social Gerontology report).

order to keep themselves in the moment.

Some people create habits, like picking one place to leave their keys, so they don't have to remember where they put them. For others, it works to set simple goals to help focus on an individual task.

These little attention helpers reduce your absentmindedness.

But, they do even more. Because if you're present-minded, you’ll be better able to stay away from negative thoughts or memories that can cause anxiety, stress and depression, which will give you even more time to focus on thoughts that make you feel good about yourself. So the next time you meet somebody for the first time, and feel anxious you'll forget their name, stay in the moment, listen for their name and maybe repeat it back to them, be more like a pilot than someone on auto-pilot. “

Difference between Alzheimer’s disease and Dementia Dementia is not one specific disease, it's a combination of symptoms that has many different causes... including Alzheimer's disease. When dealing with dementia, a doctor needs to figure out the underlying cause.

Main causes of Alzheimer's disease While Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, it's not the only one. Dementia can also be caused by vascular changes in the brain, such as Parkinson's disease, Lewy Body disease, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid gland problems, chronic brain infections, or medication. Even a very deep depression can sometimes look like dementia. Which means, if someone has dementia, it doesn't necessarily mean that they have Alzheimer's disease.

Protective factors A number of lifestyle factors have been identified that seem to offer protection against decline in late life. These are the factors that seem to contribute to cognitive reserve and offer some individuals resilience. These are education, (lifelong), occupation, physical exercise, a Mediterranean style diet, metal activity and social connection. Our films on freedemliving.com and www.hellobrain.eu provide more detailed information.

Absentmindedness We've all walked into a room to get something, then drawn a complete blank. What was it you went in there to do? Well you might be surprised to hear that this is a failure of attention rather than your memory letting you down. Everyday attention is about 'present-mindedness', which means to focus on what you're doing, while you're doing it. Unfortunately, achieving present-mindedness is not always easy, because of our tendency towards 'absent-mindedness'.

A number of factors can lead our minds to wander, instead of keeping on the task at hand. Having too many things on our mind, being stressed or worried about things, even medication and alcohol can interfere with our ability to be present minded.

Absentmindedness is more common as we get older, so it may cause us to wrongly conclude that our attention problem is the beginning of Alzheimer's disease.

Luckily, there are things we can do to help our attention.

Pilots use self-talk and checklists to keep them presentminded - they talk through every action with their co-pilot in Page 64 Senior Times May/June 2014

The good news is that some causes of dementia, such as infection, medication reactions, an underactive thyroid gland or vitamin deficiency, can be reversible, with the right treatment.

If you log on to www.freedemliving.com you will find a 2 minute film about absentmindness and another one about the difference between AD and dementia.

You can find films and easy to understand information on the websites www.freedemliving.com and www.helloBrain.eu, In addition the FreeDem films can be purchased for €5 from the Trinity Library Shop.

If anyone is interested in volunteering for current research then they can contact us at neil@tcd.ie or phone 01 8968414 for further information about our studies.

Volunteers are also being sought for the following: NILVAD – people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease for a drug trial DeStress - Carers looking after a spouse with dementia Relate - Older adults who feel socially isolated.

This article is based on Dr Brennan’s talk at the recent AGM of Active Retirement Ireland, in Galway. Dr Brennan, is Assistant Professor (Research) Trinity College Dublin, Assistant Director NEIL Programme, and Director NEIL Memory Research Unit. www.seniortimes.ie

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Win a trip for two on the ‘soaps tour’ courtesy of Celtic Horizon Tours.

Visit the Coronation Street Studios and walk down the famous cobbles. The tour also includes a location tour of Emmerdale.

To enter, just answer the following question: Name the pub that is located on Coronation Street?

Send your entries to: Celtic Horizon Tours Unit 5, Block G, Maynooth Business Campus, Maynooth, County Kildare.

Or email: ciarac@celtichorizontours.com before May 23rd.

Or hand over your entry at the Celtic Horizon Tours stand at the Active Over 50’s Show on May 24th and 25th in the RDS Dublin. Stand no. 95. Please include the following

information in your letter/card email: e mail, your phone number and your postal address Please indicate on your email or your letter/card if you do NOT want to receive any future correspondence from Celtic Horizon Tours.

Terms/Conditions. The prize for 2 people is subject to availability on a number of selected dates. The prize is non –refundable, non- transferable and no cash alternative will be offered. The prize winner will be drawn at the show on May 25th and the winner will be notified directly.

WineWorld

Bill Kelly in Burgundy with Alain Gras

When my daughter and her partner moved into their first home together, I bought them a fancy wine rack.

Subsequent presents of barbeques, books and gardening equipment all brought pleasure over the years, but it was the wine rack that started them on a great journey of discovering and collecting favourite wines, and building up a pretty impressive selection of bottles that allowed them to ponder what they would have for a special weekend dinner that would go best with one of their favourite bottles!

It is easy to start off your wine collection, and it will soon become an integral part of your lifestyle. Of course, not all wines should be stored for a long period of time, in fact very few wines on the market today benefit from long term ageing and most should be consumed within a few years of release. For the ordinary consumer, there are just a few rules to remember when storing wine. Firstly, keep it cool, but not too cool. Temperatures higher than 70° F will age a wine more quickly than is usually desirable. And if it gets too much hotter, your wine may get “cooked,” resulting in flat aromas and flavours. The ideal temperature range is between 45° F and 65° F. Regarding white wine you only need to chill it prior to drinking. Don’t keep it in the freezer either, as frozen wine will expand and push the cork out! As well as heat, sunlight can damage your wine as the sun’s UV rays can degrade and prematurely age wine.

Traditionally, bottles have been stored on their sides in order to keep the liquid up against the cork, which theoretically should keep the cork from drying out.

Although with screwcaps, this is not necessary. Store the wine in a cool, not too damp place, perhaps a utility room, basement, or even a storage room but not where it is going to be affected by sunlight, so away from windows.

Finally, if you are planning in investing in a wine rack, buy one twice the size than you originally thought because Page 66 Senior Times May/June 2014

The joys of building your own wine ‘cellar’ Mairead Robinson extols the pleasure of having your very own world of wine in your own home.

Part of the huge Kelly’s wine cellar which contains over 70,000 bottles.

once you start laying down wine for future drinking, it is becomes a growing obsession!

Of all the large wine cellars I have come across in Ireland, that belonging to Bill Kelly of Kelly’s Resort Hotel in Rosslare is the most impressive. Those who have stayed there over the years - and there are lots who return again and again to this special hotel - appreciate particularly not only the food, but the exceptional range and value of the wines on offer. I am really impressed with the wines by the glass, with the ‘Le Verre De Vin’ wine preservation system giving maximum freshness at all times.

It is great to order just one glass of wine and know that even if it was opened some time previously, there is no damage to the structure of the wine.

The Kelly family association with fine wine goes back quite a few years now.

Billy Kelly Senior began the tradition of importing his own wine directly from France in the early part of the 1950’s, when such delights as Corton Charlemagne 1937, Chateau d’Yquem 1939, Chateau Latour 1935 and Chateau Haut Brion 1934 featured on the wine list at prices that can only draw a sign of longing for the days past from today’s consumers.

Billy Kelly’s love and enthusiasm for wine, and his determination to offer his guests the finest wines at fair prices, are closely reflected today in his son, Bill.

An avid wine enthusiast, Bill is helped greatly in the job of finding, assessing and choosing wines for the hotel by someone who is one of France’s top wine-makers and the producer of one of the most outstanding Chateauneuf-duPape wines, Clos des Papes, his fatherin-law, Paul Avril and brother-in-law Vincent Avril.

Most of the wines that feature on the wine list today are imported directly from Bordeaux and Burgundy and other major regions, only after Bill has visited the producers on an annual mid-winter

One of the Kelly’s ‘own label’ Cotes du Rhone

journey through the leading vineyards in France. The wines are chosen to deliver a good blend of quality and price and that doesn’t involve sticking to the upper end of the price scale, spending more is no guarantee of getting quality.

Careful tasting, however, is.

The reason for the reliance on French wines is simple. Bill believes that more than anyone else the French intend wine to go with food and so they make their wine to complement food and to be complemented by it, not to overpower it with big, strong aromas and jammy fruity oaked flavours.

He believes French wines have more structure and a better balance between the three important elements of fruit, tannin and acidity than many of the New World wines that are so popular today.

The hotel’s cellars provide a dark and still resting place for many other wine treasures, quite a few of which are difficult to find elsewhere.

Of all the 70,000 bottles in their collection, there is a range that is hard to beat by any other hotelier in Ireland.

With 24 producers from the Burgundy region alone, Bill is careful and selective when choosing his wine and he holds a couple of wine tastings each year where he brings producers over to talk about their wines. If you are staying during this time, you can of course go along as a guest.

My own personal collection is very meagre in comparison, however it does bring the family a lot of pleasure and while it is dipped into on a regular basis, we do top up with our favourites – especially when they are on special offer!

Checkout your supermarket, who often offer a promotion of 25% off purchases of 6 bottles, and also your local offlicence who will certainly have some gems at special prices from week to week, or month to month. Enjoy your new hobby, and always remember to choose a wine that will best compliment your favourite food. Food and wine – a marriage made in heaven! www.seniortimes.ie

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WIN a 2-night Midweek idweek Br Break reak e for your ur Gr Group roup o (max 14 people) ople) This gr great reat e prize is courtesy of the award award winning Hotel W Westport e estp in Co. Mayo estport To T o enter enter, r, just answer the following question: Name thrree e re ecent awardss that Hotel We estport has won...

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Northern Notes

By Debbie Orme

Northern Ireland’s tribute to First World War As you will know, this year marks the hundredth anniversary of the beginning of the First World War, but it also marks the twentieth anniversary of the opening of Northern Ireland’s primary educational facility on the event. Situated between Newtownards and Bangor in County Down, the Somme Museum is now a major tourist attraction, which examines Ireland’s role in the First World War. The museum pays particular attention to local cross-community involvement in the three volunteer Divisions raised in Ireland: the 10th and 16th (Irish) Divisions, and the 36th (Ulster) Division but, since 2000, has expanded into the Second World War and other modern international conflicts. The museum is also increasingly focused upon the community relations potential of this shared history as a vehicle to further cross-community and crossborder contact, mutual understanding and reconciliation.

The Somme Museum contains an extensive collection of material from the Great War period and, in the last number of years, a growing collection from World War Two. Its parent body, the Somme Association, was formed in 1990 with the aim of educating the public and commemorating, on a cross-community basis, the role played by Irishmen in the First World War. The Somme Association - a registered charity – also administers the Ulster Memorial Tower in France, and, in 2004, purchased Thiepval Wood through a grant from the Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure. Over the last few years it has carried out archaeological excavations of the trenches in Thiepval Wood, from where the Ulster Division made their historic charge on the 1st July 1916. The Wood was opened for guided tours in July 2006 and work continues on the WW1 trenches. The Association also owns Craigavon House in East Belfast, which is the former home of Sir James Craig, Northern Ireland’s first Prime Minister and a central figure in the Home Rule Crisis.

The Tour A tour of the Somme Museum shows clearly how the First World War shaped the world we live in today. Nearly a quarter of a million Irish men and women served in the armed forces and in the factories. Old differences were laid aside as Protestant and Catholic, Unionists and Nationalists fought alongside each other in a common cause. There’s no doubt that the Museum gives you a great understanding of their experiences and gives you the opportunity to remember their sacrifices and achievements. The guided tour also brings you through the Home Rule Crisis, recruiting, training of soldiers Page 68 Senior Times May/June 2014

and finally to the front line trenches. The culmination of the visit will be a walk through the front line trenches.

Surrounded by the noise of the tremendous artillery barrage, you can look across ‘No Man’s Land’ with the troops, before they go ‘over the top’ before ending your tour by watching the Battle of the Somme re-created in an audio-visual presentation. As someone who visited the Somme and the Ulster Tower last year, I can tell you that a visit to the Somme Museum is the next best thing to the real thing!

Last month, the director of the Museum, Carol Walker, gave a talk on the role of women at the time of the First World War. During the talk, Carol used the true stories and personal accounts of locally and internationally significant women to illustrate the massive changes in women’s roles and rights in the period 1914-1918.

Among the stories which were told was that of Dorothy Lawrence who posed as a man to serve as a sapper with the Royal Engineers and was subsequently placed under military arrest. Also featured was British nurse, Edith Cavell, who helped over 200 Allied soldiers escape from German-occupied Belgium, was court-martialled and executed by a German firing squad in October 1915.

The contribution of another nurse, Jessie Getty from Newtownards also featured, as Carol recounted how Jessie joined the Ulster Volunteer Nursing Corps in 1913 and went on to enlist in the Voluntary Aid Detachment as a fully qualified nurse, seeing service at a military hospital in France and going on to marry a soldier she nursed back to health.

‘This period of our history brought massive global change politically and socially,’ said Carol, ‘and the shift in women’s roles and how women were perceived was particularly significant. And yet, perhaps with the exception of the suffragette movement, we know very little about some of the women who influenced the shape of our society as it is today. This talk was an opportunity to hear about them.

‘The First World War was a time of huge social change, particularly for women. It was the catalyst to speed up these changes. Education reinforced the female role as wife and mother, but women were increasingly making a significant impact on society.

For more information on the Somme Museum visit www.irishsolder.org www.seniortimes.ie

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Older people welcome age-friendly plan for Belfast Details of Belfast’s first Age-friendly Plan were unveiled recently at a special Seniors Convention at Belfast City Hall.

Developed by the Healthy Ageing Strategic Partnership (HASP), part of the Belfast Strategic Partnership, the Age-friendly Plan is seen as vital to the future of the city because the growth of an older population will have a major impact on its future.

At present, almost 19 per cent of the city’s population is aged over 60 years old and the number of those aged over 85 continues to increase.

The Age-friendly plan was developed in consultation with older people across the city and outlines three key themes for future action: Age-friendly Image – creating a positive view of ageing; Age-friendly Lives – reducing life inequalities and isolation; Age-friendly Neighbourhoods – creating friendly places in which to live.

Around 200 older people and other guests attended the convention which was chaired by Claire Keatinge, Commissioner for Older People in Northern Ireland. Junior Minister from the Office of the First and Deputy First Minister (OFMDFM), Jonathan Bell, also attended the event to look at the wider government strategy on Active Ageing.

‘Belfast was one of the first cities in Ireland to sign the World Health Organisation Declaration on Healthy Ageing,’ said Councillor Bernie Kelly, Chair of the council’s all party Reference Group on Older People. ‘It is because of our political determination and the strong interagency partnerships encompassed by HASP and the cooperation of older people that we have succeeded in putting this plan together.

It is also through these strong partnerships that we will make the necessary changes to ensure the plan provides real results in our local neighbourhoods.’

‘We have talked to older people in Belfast about the important things which would improve their lives and help them live life to the full,’ added Iain Deboys, Belfast Strategic Partnership and chair of the Healthy Ageing Strategic Partnership. ‘Today’s event highlighted what we will do, how we will do it and the commitment of organisations to make Belfast a more age-friendly city. We thank all the many contributors to the plan, especially the older people of Belfast who volunteered their time and offered their views and experiences. We would also encourage everyone, of whatever age, in Belfast to work with us on this plan.’

Page 70 Senior Times May/June 2014

Belfast was one of the first cities in Ireland to sign the World Health Organisation Declaration on Healthy Ageing,’ said Councillor Bernie Kelly, Chair of the council’s all party Reference Group on Older People.

Centre at heart of cardiac rehabilitation Comber Leisure Centre is now at the heart of cardiac rehabilitation, becoming the only leisure facility in North Down and Ards to provide classes designed to improve heart function.

The ‘phase 4’ cardiac rehabilitation classes began this month at the Ards Borough Council centre, with more than ten people who have experienced heart problems, now embarking on the twelve-week programme, during which they will do cardiovascularbased exercises, from cycling and rowing to light resistance work.

Christopher Gibson, who has embarked on the twelve-week cardiac rehabilitation class at Comber Leisure Centre, with Kyle Farley.

All of the cardiac patients have been referred from hospital to undertake the programme, funded by the Public Health Agency, which is being led by a specially trained member of staff, Kyle Farley.

‘Delivering classes which are tailored for people who are managing heart conditions or recovering from a cardiac illness, requires a higher level of care and enhanced skills and qualifications,’ Kyle told Senior Times. ‘Some of our clients were naturally a bit nervous about coming into the centre, but a few weeks in, and everyone is relaxed and benefiting from the positive effects. Some are already looking forward to continuing their exercise routines beyond the programme itself and that is a really great outcome.’

For more information about the cardiac rehabilitation classes at Comber Leisure Centre, contact Ian Elliott, Tel: 028 9187 4350. www.seniortimes.ie

Photographic exhibition depicted dementia Some of the group responsible for organising the exhibition

A photographic exhibition revealing the daily lives of five men living with dementia recently ran in Ards Arts Centre.

‘My World’ was the result of a group of men - all members of a Men’s Friendship Group organised by Alzheimer’s Society working with a volunteer photographer to depict their ‘good’ days and ‘bad’ days living with dementia.

The exhibition was part of Alzheimer’s Society Dementia Friendly Communities programme, which challenges stigma and supports people with dementia to continue living independently in their community for as long as possible.

A dementia-friendly community is a city, town or village where people with dementia are understood, respected, supported and confident they can contribute to community life.

‘A major problem with this condition is communication,’ said

John McErlane, who was speaking on behalf of the group. ‘We often find it difficult to tell others of our problems or feelings, wants and needs. As a picture is supposed to be worth a thousand words, we have created this photography exhibition as a way to explain how this condition affects us and our carers.’

Heather Lundy, Dementia Friendly Communities Manager for the Alzheimer’s Society, said that the group had three main aims.

‘The men in this friendship group wanted to demonstrate that someone who has been diagnosed with dementia has still got creative abilities but may need a little more help in expressing them,’ she said. ‘Secondly, they wanted to say to those who have dementia diagnosis – don’t give up, or hide yourself away. And lastly the exhibition was a way of saying thank you to all the people who help them on a daily basis.’

Crowds gather for memorial dedication Hundreds of people gathered recently for the dedication of a new memorial in Comber, commemorating all those who lost their lives in the armed forces since the Second World War. The name of Corporal Channing Day from Comber, who was killed in Afghanistan in October 2012, was included on the monument, commissioned by Ards Borough Council and which now stands in the town’s square.

‘In creating this memorial,’ said Mayor of Ards, Councillor Stephen McIlveen, www.seniortimes.ie

The parade on Memorial Day

‘we have paid tribute to all those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in conflicts since the end of the Second World War. We now also have a fitting way in which to ensure that the sacrifice of Corporal Channing Day will be remembered, along with her fallen comrades who are already commemorated in this sacred space”.’

‘This was a solemn occasion and an emotional one, particularly for the Day family,’ said Councillor Meryvn Oswald,

who originally proposed the memorial, ‘and there wasn’t a person present who wasn’t moved by the ceremony. I hope that the memorial provides a focus for quiet personal reflection and public remembrance.’

Members of the Council were joined for the ceremony by representatives of the armed forces, including those who served with Corporal Day, the Day family and regional and local representatives of the Royal British Legion.

Senior Times May/June 2014 Page 71

A Jewel In The Algarve Crown Des Duggan reports on this wonderful family friendly hotel which has proven to be a great hit with all generations of the Irish holiday business.

Martinhal Beach Resort & Hotel, Algarve, Portugal is an award-winning 5-star resort, located at the beach in Sagres and in the heart of a natural park, where everything from golf, surf, walking, hiking and biking can be found.

If you are considering a multi-generational holiday as a way to reconnect and spend more quality time with loved ones without any of the hustle and bustle, then Martinhal Resort might be the one for you. It is one of those hotel resorts totally designed with families and extended families in mind, from kids to parents and grandparents, who would love every aspect of this stunning Beach Resort.

A recent European wide survey reports that families live farther away from each other now with heavy work commitments so a holiday might be just the way to spend a bit of quality time with your loved ones.

Martinhal Beach Resort & Hotel - voted Europe’s Leading Villa Resort and Portugal’s Leading family Resort - has plenty on offer for extended families, including special offers when booking multiple-accommodation packages, anniversary celebrations, event packages and family-style dinners to a wide range of organised activities for the whole family!

Page 72 Senior Times May/June 2014

bedrooms and private swimming pool might be the best option. And if you were looking for more privacy for yourself or your parents, but without losing out on the family time, an additional room in our 5-star Hotel Martinhal is definitely a good fit.

Other family friendly amenities include a daily maid service, iPod docking station, satellite TV and video on demand, free WiFi and access to all resort facilities.

Accommodation varies from the spacious designer rooms in the 5 star Hotel Martinhal, some with interconnecting rooms, to Luxury Village Houses and Villas – all fully-fitted out with huge kitchens, washing machines, dishwashers and dryers.

For the larger family gathering, a combination of a one, two and/or three bedroom Village house can be booked, with self-catering facilities near to each other. If your family is looking for one larger property that fits everyone, then renting the luxury Villas with 3, 4 or 5

The food and wine on offer at Martinhal is fantastic - they have a strong philosophy of using local ingredients where possible plus they source from organic suppliers. Sagres offers some of the best seafood and fish bought off the local fishermen every day. The Hotel also pride itself in serving only Portuguese wines as Portugal has some of the best wines in the world at excellent prices. It also offers a healthy option menu with a wide vegetarian offering to accompany active winter fitness regimes.

For those interested in local history during a winter stay, Sagres played a major part in Golden Age of Discoveries of the Portuguese. Among the sites worth visiting are : the lands of Henry the Navigator; the fortress at Sagres; the lighthouse at the Cape of St. Vincent ;Guadalupe Church and Beliche fortress.

Weather : While Northern Europe descends into deep winter, in Sagres where Martinhal is situated, the www.seniortimes.ie

temperatures is better than the Costa del Sol and the region experiences day-time temperatures somewhere between 15ºC and 19ºC with lots of sunny days.

Active Winter Packages : If you just want to escape from the cold winter weather, Martinhal offers great value Active Winter Packages for 4 or 7 nights with discretionary discounts for longer stays.

The Irish Angle : Martinhal Beach Resort & Hotel commissioned an Irish Company called Voya Products Ltd from Co. Sligo to supply all the bathroom accessories.

These products offer hotel guests wonderful body treatments that not only heal the body but leave the skin silky and smooth.

VOYA Ltd opened in 2000 as a family-run business and now, 14 years later, has grown to an extended 'family' of 18 team members - VOYA Seaweed Bath products are based on wonderful hand-harvested seaweed, bringing you the full power of nature in its purest forms throughout VOYA Seaweed Baths & Spa.

Nearby town: Lagos If you like shopping, you’ll love Lagos.

There are a lot of small, independent retailers selling local crafts, ceramics, fashions, leather goods and local produce. The Algarve region is well known for its unique styles of pottery and ceramics and all within strolling distance of each other.

Flight Information Aer Lingus flies twice daily from Dublin to Faro, five times a week from Cork to Faro and twice weekly from Shannon.

Aer Lingus also operates a daily service from Belfast for the summer, April through to October. Fares start from € 129.00 one way from March 2014.

For more information on fares and schedules visit aerlingus.com For Further information on Martinhal Beach Resort & Hotel visit their website on www.martinhal.com/

VOYA has adopted organic and sustainable ways of creating seaweed baths and organic seaweed spa treatments and combines the best organic ingredients from around the world to bring a unique seaweed bathing experience.

For further information visit www.voya.ie or call 071 916 1872 www.seniortimes.ie

Senior Times May/June 2014 Page 73

What’s on in the Arts

Dance..

Brecht..

Marilyn Monroecoming your way soon Maretta Dillon previews what’s in store in the arts around the country in May and June

Steve Blount and Janet Moran in Fishamble’s Swing

Bodies in Urban Spaces, literally a moving trail through Dublin city centre with 20 locally recruited performers and a whole lot of contortions – all the news from dublindancefestival.ie.

10 years in the making and Dublin Dance Festival is still going strong with a jam packed programme from May 20. A great opportunity to see the best of international dance including acclaimed choreographer Russell Maliphant at the Abbey Theatre, the bold and ambitious Emma Martin Dance at Project and Bodies in Urban Spaces, literally a moving trail through Dublin city centre with 20 locally recruited performers and a whole lot of contortions – all the news from dublindancefestival.ie.

Part of the festival but definitely doing their own thing is Fishamble Theatre Company with Swing, a show about the blossoming relationship of May and Joe as they fumble through romantic dilemmas, career problems, life choices and dance steps! So just like us then. Winner of the Bewley’s Little Gem Award at the Dublin Fringe Festival 2013, Swing embarks on a nationwide tour post the festival - venues and dates from fishamble.com Also, on tour during May is The Unremarkable Death of Marilyn Monroe. We are promised Marilyn as we’ve never seen her before: alone in her bedroom, in dressing gown and Page 74 Senior Times May/June 2014

www.seniortimes.ie

Competition

Win a two-week getaway to the Canary Islands!

Sun Park Living and Senior Times magazine have teamed up to offer our readers and visitors to our Active Over 50’s Show in the RDS (see Page 67) the opportunity to win this fabulous prize.

Fancy spending two blissful weeks in sunny Lanzarote? We’ve teamed up with over-50s resort Sun Park Living to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a fortnight in the Canary Islands, with flights and accommodation included.

Enter our free competition to win a two-week holiday to Lanzarote at an exclusive resort for over 50s. The winner and a friend will fly from Dublin airport before spending a blissful fortnight at Sun Park Living.

The winner and a friend will spend two weeks in a self-catering apartment in a private gated community resort exclusively for those who are retired and active, located on the glorious island of Lanzarote. You may find yourself practising yoga, learning Spanish, painting, singing, dancing, having BBQs - the list goes on! Everyone at the resort is free to join in, meet new people, learn new things and enjoy their golden years as much or as little as they want.

A Summer’s Village is neither a holiday resort nor a retirement home - it is a unique private ‘village-like’ community within a holiday resort, where friendships and camaraderie develop easily.

The one-bedroom self-catering apartments at Sun Park Living are non-smoking and come fully furnished, offering a comfortable and spacious home away from home with a bathroom, open plan kitchen-diner, living room with sofa bed and large terrace overlooking the beautiful gardens and swimming pools. For more information about the resort and the latest news, visit www.sunparkliving.com, ‘Like’ Sun Park on Facebook and follow Sun Park Living on Twitter.

THE PRIZE

ENTER OUR COMPETITION

Just answer the simple question, fill in the coupon and you could win our fantastic prize!

Please send all entries to: Sun Park Living Competition, c/o Senior Times, Unit 1 15 Oxford Lane, Ranelagh, Dublin 6.

Deadline for receipt of entries is 25th June 2014.

Or come to the Sun Park stand at the Active Over 50’s Show in the RDS on the 24th and 25th May. Alternatively, email your answer, along with your personal details to: info@slp.ie Q Which Canary Island are Sun Park Living’s apartments located on?

NAME (MR/MRS/MS) ADDRESS:

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POSTCODE:

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DAYTIME TELEPHONE NUMBER .................................................................................................

A two-week holiday for two people at over-50s resort Sun Park Living, in Lanzarote. The prize includes flights to and from Dublin airport and is based on a couple sharing a one-bedroom self-catering apartment. The prize must be used before Oct 2014, depending on resort occupancy at time of booking.

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SENIOR TIMES TERMS & CONDITIONS APPLY – See www.seniortimes.ie for details

The film Grace of Monaco makes an appearance on June 30 with Nicole Kidman playing the princess in 1962 at a time of particular crisis in the royal marriage.

that Shakes the Barley takes on the case of Jim Gralton, the only man to be deported from Ireland for alleged communist activities. Shot in Co. Leitrim last summer, can he repeat his earlier success? On release from May 30 in Irish cinemas.

On tour during May is The Unremarkable Death of Marilyn Monroe. We are promised Marilyn as we’ve never seen her before..

slippers; no glitz, no glamour, no mask. Monroe dishes the dirt on her incredible life – DiMaggio, Gable, Miller, Hyde, her mother – she ain’t taking no prisoners. For more details check out dyadproductions.com.

Rough Magic and Opera Theatre Company have pulled off something of a coup winning the Sky Arts Ignition Award and a chunk of funding. The result is The Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny by Bertolt Brecht and Kurt Weill. Dedicated to the pursuit of pleasure, Mahagonny is a city founded by three stranded fugitives - ruthless entrepreneur Begbick and her henchmen Moses and Fatty - where cash is king and anything goes. Gosh, that sounds familiar. See the production at the Olympia Theatre from June 13 - ticketmaster.ie.

Travel writer Paul Theroux takes to the stage, well Blackwater Community School, as part of Immrama, Lismore Festival of Travel Writing on June 15. Winner of oodles of awards for his particular blend of travel writing, sharp observation and sometimes brazen reportage, the encounter should be a memorable occasion. See lismoreimmrama.com Ken Loach’s last film as a features director (he’s going to keep working away on the documentaries) is Jimmy’s Hall.

Loach who, of course, directed the award winning The Wind Page 76 Senior Times May/June 2014

Finally Grace of Monaco makes an appearance on June 30 with Nicole Kidman playing the princess in 1962 at a time of particular crisis in the royal marriage. Not to be outshone, a certain Mrs Brown plays herself in Mrs Brown’s Boys D Movie from June 27 everywhere. You know what to expect!

Events around the Country / May June 2014 EVA INTERNATIONAL 2014, LIMERICK, CO. LIMERICK Agitationism Limerick’s biennial art exhibition is this time curated by Bassam El Baroni from Alexandria, Egypt.

April 12 – July 6 - various venues / locations in Limerick city centre.

Booking: 061 310633/ eva.ie CRAWFORD ART GALLERY, CORK, CO. CORK SUNSHINE AND SHADOW: Aspects of British Impressionism 1920–1950 A short period in English art celebrating paintings of landscape, idyllic pastoral scenes and quiet interiors.

May 1- ongoing Information: crawfordartgallery.ie BEEHIVE THEATRE, DINGLE, CO. KERRY After Sarah Miles A one man show with Don Wycherly as a fisherman struggling to face the sea.May 2 & 3 - part of a nationwide tour (see gallarusproductions.com).

Booking: 087 799 4488/ feilenabealtainne.ie www.seniortimes.ie

A new career for May at 84 Win a break for two at the Limerick Strand Hotel in our crossword competition At 84 Dubliner May Carolan is carving out a new career for herself as mosaic designer May is the mother of 7 children 12 grandchildren and 7 great grandchildren. She lives in Cabra West Dublin. Her husband and best friend Tommy passed away in 2003 after 45 years of marriage. Following this May became very depressed and withdrawn, not going out or mixing with friends. Following a lot of encouragement from her family she attended a class in mosiac making. She enjoyed it so much that she continues to attend the class to the present day.

Hotel Reviews Ireland in association with Senior Times are delighted to offer two people the opportunity to win a Gourmet Culture Break for two people at the award winning 4* Limerick Strand Hotel.

www.strandhotellimerick.ie 061-421800 Enjoy award winning culinary delights at AA rosette River Restaurant with panoramic views of the River Shannon.

Experience the gourmet treasures that the city has to offer from the artisan produce at Limericks infamous Milk Market (just 5 minutes from the hotel) there is plenty to explore in Limerick! Ireland’s National City of Culture 2014.

Through the mosiac making May has found a new outlet to help her access her creativity: ironically the purpose built extension built to cater for her husband Tommy when he was sick is now housing her creations.

May is not only an inspiration to her family but also a role model and example to other seniors struggling with depression as to the power of the human spirit.

Want to make some extra money in your spare time?

Hotel Package includes • Two Nights’ accommodation in a luxurious King Superior Bedroom • Full Irish Breakfast on each Morning in The River Restaurant – Best Hotel Breakfast 2014 (2014 Georgina Campbell Awards) • Dinner in The Award Winning River Restaurant with a Bottle of House Wine on one evening • Full use of Energize Health Club - 20m pool, Sauna, Steam Room, Gym, Jacuzzi • 10% discount at Urban Escape Spa (Does not apply for Special Offers) • Complimentary WIFI

Senior Times is appointing a team of agents across the country to market subscriptions to Ireland’s only publication for older people.

To win this prize send your completed crossword entry (see crossword at end of the magazine) to:

The brief of the job is to sign up new subscribers – whether they be individuals, retirement groups, companies/bodies, local councils, libraries, hotels, clinics, etc. Your working hours are entirely up to yourself. There are no targets, no pressure. You work at your own pace when it suits you.

Crossword Competition, Senior Times, Unit 1, 15 Oxford Lane, Ranelagh, Dublin 6.

The first correct entry drawn is the winner.

Deadline for receipt of entries is 7th July 2014

Interested? If so, contact Senior Times at: Unit 1, 15 Oxford Lane, Ranelagh, Dublin 6.

Tel: (01) 4969028. Email: info@slp.ie

LISTOWEL WRITER’S WEEK, LISTOWEL, CO. KERRY This year’s guests include: Michelle Forbes, Louise Doughty, Paul Lynch and Jim Crace.

Listowel is sure to live up to its reputation as a stimulating festival celebrating all things literary.

May 7- June 1 Information: 068 21074/ writersweek.ie

LINENHALL ARTS CENTRE, CASTLEBAR, CO. MAYO Postscript A poignant and humorous account of a woman-turneddetective on a mission to reveal the truth.

May 27 – part of a nationwide tour (see biggerpictureprojects.com) Booking: 094 902 3733 / thelinenhall.com

MULLINGAR INTEGRATED ARTS CENTRE, MULLINGAR, CO. WESTMEATH The Unusual History of Ether Copenhagen-based collaboration between Irish singer-songwriter Rebecca Collins and Danish guitarist Mikkel Ploug.

May 8 – part of a nationwide tour (see theunusualhistoryofether.tumblr.com) Booking: 044 93 477 77/mullingarartscentre.ie

REGIONAL CULTURAL CENTRE, LETTERKENNY, CO. DONEGAL Liz Carroll Grammy nominated traditional fiddle-player, Liz Carroll, undertakes a short Irish tour with her new album.

May 29 Booking: 074 91 29186/ regionalculturalcentre.com

THE SOURCE ARTS CENTRE, THURLES, CO. TIPPERARY Lambo 1987 – Gerry Ryan has killed a lamb – sort of! A fictionalised account of a story that gripped the nation.

May 12 Booking: 353 504 90204/ thesourceartscentre.ie DUBLIN DANCE FESTIVAL A showcase of international dance and choreography A handpicked artistic programme from home and abroad at various venues in Dublin.

May 20-31 Booking: 01 672 8815 / dublindancefestival.ie GLÓR, ENNIS, CO. CLARE Fleadh Nua 40th Anniversary Concert Celebrating 40 years of Fleadh Nua in Ennis.

May 24 Booking: 065 684 3103/ glor.ie WEXFORD ARTS CENTRE, WEXFORD, CO. WEXFORD Tony Carty Cabaret Tony Carty and his band Blackjack are back to perform in their own inimitable style.

May 25 Booking: 053-912 3764/ wexfordartscentre.ie DROICHEAD ARTS CENTRE, DROGHEDA, CO. LOUTH Atlantic I/O A high profile trans-Atlantic collective that brings together master musicians from Ireland and America.

May 25 – part of a nationwide tour (see padraigrynne.com) Information: 041 983 3946/ droicheadartscentre.com Page 78 Senior Times May/June 2014

THE MODEL, SLIGO, CO. SLIGO Jack B Yeats: The Music Has Come An exhibition of paintings from the painter Jack B. Yeats that examines music as a motif in his work.

May 31 – Sept 30 Information: 071 914 1405/ themodel.ie THEATRE ROYAL, WATERFORD, CO. WATERFORD June Rodgers on tour Ireland’s funny lady brings her stunning stage show to theatres around the country this June.

June 6 – part of a nationwide tour (see junerodgers.net) Booking: 051 874 402/ theatreroyal.ie MERMAID ARTS CENTRE, BRAY, CO. WICKLOW Only Lovers Left Alive Film director Jim Jarmusch’s imaginative riff on the vampire myth with Tilda Swinton and Tom Hiddleston.

June 23 Booking: 01 272 4030/ mermaidartscentre.ie WEST CORK CHAMBER MUSIC FESTIVAL, WEST CORK. Musicians already confirmed : flute player Juliette Bausor, cellist Andreas Brantelid and pianist Philippe Cassard Enjoy the music and make friends with the performers in the beautiful surroundings of Bantry House, Co. Cork.

June 27 – July 5 Booking: 353 27 52788/ westcorkmusic.ie

Finally, if you’d like your event to feature in our list of What’s On please email: events.country@gmail.com

www.seniortimes.ie

Short Story

A Friendship Split

By Margaret Kane

Forgiveness is the key to happiness, for without it there is no inner peace. Brona stared at the sentence in the self-help book she’d found at a church bazaar. Well, she could certainly identify with that. The only problem was that it could be too late for herself and Cathy.

With an anxious frown, Brona put the last touch to her make-up and then paused. Should she? Did she really want to take the risk? She could go down today, this morning even, in this glorious summer weather.

Forgiveness. It was such an emotive word. The problem was that not only did it have to be offered, it had to be accepted too. Given the circumstances, was it possible for either of those things to happen?

Brona was still asking herself that question when the train pulled into the small familiar station. Slowly, in the warm sunshine, she walked along the high street. Not much had Page 80 Senior Times May/June 2014

changed in the past four years – an estate agent where a small boutique used to be, a delicatessen in place of a shoe-shop.

“Blood sisters to the end,” they’d sworn as they grew up together, vowing that nothing could ever split them up. But for four years now they hadn’t seen each other and the absence of Cathy in Brona’s life had left a hole no one else could fill.

Turning left, she made her way to the avenue where she and Cathy had grown up. Brona’s own parents had retired to the coast two years ago. Pausing briefly outside her old home, she saw toys in the front garden and smiled. It was good to think of children in that house again. Cathy’s parents had lived three doors away and, hoping they’d still be there and would be able to tell her Cathy’s new address, Brona opened their gate and walked slowly, her nerves tense up the path. After all, she hardly thought that she would be their favourite person. She took a deep breath and then rang the doorbell.

Nobody answered. Brona rang again and seconds later when it www.seniortimes.ie

was opened, she stared in profound shock at the flame-haired, heavily pregnant young woman facing her. Brona’s stomach lurched, her throat closing in panic. This was something she hadn’t expected, hadn’t prepared herself for, not yet.

“Cathy! I was expecting your mother to answer,” she stammered.

“Mum and Dad have moved to a bungalow.” Cathy’s voice gave no indication of her feelings. “We bought the house from them.”

“I see,” Brona muttered.

Cathy stood aside, her voice cool. “You’d better come in.”

Brona followed her into the sitting room. “This all looks so different from how I remember it,” she said, looking at the white walls and gleaming paintwork. The windows bore pale coffee linen curtains, the neutral carpet a sea of tranquillity.

Gone was the fussiness she remembered.

Cathy turned to face her. “Thanks. But I’m sure you haven’t come here to admire my decorating.”

her own, had to look away in confusion, frantically trying to hide the effect his touch had on her. But he had of course, known. After that first meeting, Brona went out of her way to avoid the happy couple altogether. Puzzled, Cathy tried to include her in some of their outings and occasionally Brona went along – but it was too fraught. No matter how she tried, her gaze would stray to Michael, her pulse would race and when once or twice his eyes met her own, unspoken but perfectly understood messages passed between them. Night after night, all those years ago, Cathy would cry herself to sleep feeling that her heart would break.

She was still holding the photograph in her hand when Brona returned with the coffee.

“Please tell me that you’re happy?” Brona’s voice was quiet. She looked at the other girl, searching her eyes for the truth.

“Yes I am, very happy. And you?” Cathy’s tone was challenging, her gaze holding that of her former friend.

Brona didn’t answer. “Cathy – do you think you’ll ever be able to forgive me?”

“Please, Cathy – it’s been four years.”

“I know that, Bro.” Vulnerable tears threatened at the familiar name only Brona had ever used, and Brona turned her head away.

“Sit down,” Cathy said abruptly. “I’ll put the kettle on.

Black coffee?”

Brona nodded. She had never expected Cathy to be pregnant, it hurt not to have known that. “When is the baby due?” she called through to the kitchen.

“Another three weeks,” Cathy called back.

Brona, unable to sit still, wandered over to the sideboard to look at a photograph in a silver frame. Cathy looked so beautiful in her wedding dress yet Brona, who at one time would have been chief bridesmaid, hadn’t even been invited.

For the two once close friends, everything had changed from the moment Michael had entered their lives. It had happened while Brona was away on a training course for six weeks and even now, she could remember her shock on returning to find Cathy already engaged.

Brona handed her a mug and sat down on the sofa before answering. “I can’t say it was easy.” Her voice was tight. Then she added, “But eventually I managed it. Quite some time ago actually.”

Stunned, Brona stared at her. “Then why didn’t you get in touch?”

Cathy raised her eyebrows in the gesture Brona remembered so well.

“Because the first move had to come from you – surely you can see that.”

Brona looked down. Cathy had always been the clever one.

“You’re right,” she said. “You nearly always were. But first I had to forgive myself.”

There was a moment’s silence and then Cathy said, “And have you? Is that why you’ve come?”

Brona searched for the right words. “I think so. All I know is that I need your friendship as much as ever.”

“And Michael?” Cathy’s voice suddenly had an edge.

“Oh, Brona, just wait until you meet him,” Cathy’s eyes had been alight with happiness, and to her dismay Brona had felt a sharp pang of jealousy. Would this Michael come between them, affect their friendship? She’d seen it happen so many times – girls getting married and then drifting away from their friends. But surely, that couldn’t possibly happen with her and Brona, not with their close relationship.

Then Brona met him and . . . he was absolutely devastating!

“Brona,” he said, smiling. “Cathy’s told me so much about you.”

Brona held out her hand and, as his fingers closed around www.seniortimes.ie

“He’s fine,” Brona said. “We’re hoping to start a family soon too.”

There was a pause. Then Cathy smiled - a broad genuine smile. “I’m glad,” she said, “really glad.” She glanced over at the photograph. “After all, if it hadn’t been for you, I’d never have met and married Conor. What do you think of him?”

“He’s absolutely devastating,” Brona murmured. She put a hand to her mouth as she suddenly realised what she’d just said, but Cathy was laughing so hard she was bent double, with tears running down her cheeks.

“Oh, Bro,” she gasped, “welcome back!”

Senior Times May/June 2014 Page 81

Golf

A history of ‘crazy’ golf

Joe Carr recalled The Golden Ball: ‘I remember I carried a spoon (three-wood), a four-iron and a short-iron, probably an eight or nine’.

Dermot Gilleece recounts some of the more eccentric matches down the years

In 1913, a sprightly 63-year-old by the name of TH Ovler, accepted the challenge of playing a decidedly interesting golf hole in fewer than 2,000 strokes. For the purposes of the challenge, the so-called hole ran from Linton Park near Maidstone in Kent, to Littlestone Links, a distance of 26 miles as the crow flies but seven miles further in actual play.

As it happened, Ovler did it in 1,087 strokes, having complied with a condition that the ball would be played where it lay, or lifted under penalty. It took him three days and we are told that he lost 17 balls in rivers, woods and scrub, while 62 balls were lifted out of impossible lies off railway lines and out of backwaters.

A similar event, 13 years earlier, bore closest resemblance, however, to a golfing spectacular which would form the sporting highlight of this country's three-week An Tostal festival in 1953.

That particular exercise, in 1900, involved three members of the Hackensack club in New Jersey, playing for four and a half hours over an extemporised course six miles long.

Cross-country matches have been a feature of golf since the early part of the nineteenth century and their fascination, certainly in those Page 82 Senior Times May/June 2014

embryonic days, lay in the fact that, generally, the number of strokes required to negotiate a particular "course" was greatly overestimated. By the early years of the last century, however, more astute observers reasoned that if a player were allowed to tee-up, a simple calculation of allowing at least 150 yards for every shot would provide a fairly accurate estimate of his total.

Granted, such calculations could hardly have been applied to the effort of Floyd Rood, who took one year and 114 days to play golf from coast to coast across the United States. The irrepressible Rood took 114,737 strokes, including 3,511 penalty shots for the 3,397-mile course.

But in the main, it was further acknowledged that if the ball had to be played where it lay, "a sporting element thereupon enters the match, for unusual lies will cause uncertainties in scoring".

On Saturday April 18th 1953, the weekend sports diaries of our national newspapers carried a decidedly curious item for the following day. Listed under the heading Golf was an event called the Curragh Grand National. www.seniortimes.ie

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Senior Times is packed with information on health, finance, travel, hobbies and pastimes, nostalgia, and much, much more!

For just €40 (£35) you can have Senior Times delivered to your door. Senior Times is published every two months: a 10-issue subscription covers 18 months.

Situated on Francis Street, renowned for its antique shops, in the heart of The Liberties, The Constant Knitter yarn shop was voted the best craft shop in Ireland in 2012 by The Irish Times and its readers.

COMPLETE THE FORM BELOW. YOU CAN PAY BY CHEQUE OR PO MADE PAYABLE TO SENIOR TIMES

We stock lots of Irish yarns such as Studio Donegal, Cushendale and Smudge, the latter hand-dyed specially for TCK! We also stock popular brands such as Schoppel-Wolle, Katia, Rico, West Yorkshire Spinners & Artesano.

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Upstairs is a bright and cheerful 500sq ft studio where popular classes and workshops on knitting, crochet, sewing, embroidery, quilting, felting etc are given by professional tutors. Maire Treanor, author of Clones Lace, The Story and Patterns of an Irish Crochet, visits us frequently for a one-day workshop, next one on Saturday, 7th June.

We are the biggest supplier in Ireland of the fabulous HiyaHiya brand of knitting needles - incredibly smooth and lightweight.

I am paying by credit card. Debit my Card type

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We host craft hen parties and visiting craft tours, mostly from the US and Canada.

087 996 7197 info@theconstantknitter.ie www.theconstantknitter.ie

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This became known otherwise as the Golden Ball Tournament and was hailed as the most original event of An Tostal.

Among other details was a spectacular prize of £1 million _ about €60 million at today's values _ for a hole in one. Barring divine intervention, there was absolutely no chance of this jackpot being collected, given that the competition involved 128 players in a cross-country match from the first tee at Cill Dara GC to the 17th green at the Curragh GC, a distance of five miles or 8,800 yards.

Players could use only three clubs of their own choice and out-of-bounds was reduced to the minimum, for simplicity sake. Among the hazards to be negotiated were the main Dublin-Cork road and railway-line, furze bushes, trees surrounding the Curragh Camp, the Curragh Racecourse, hoof-prints left by thoroughbred racehorses out exercising from nearby stables, Army tank tracks and about 150 telephone lines.

Curragh racecourse, one of the ‘hazards’ in the 1953 Curragh Grand National!

The trophy, comprising a standard-size golf-ball in gold on a black marble pillar beside the silver figure of a golfer on a green base, was designed by Captain Maurice Cogan of the Army GHQ, Dublin. And it was won with the remarkable score of 52 strokes -an average of 169 yards per stroke - by not only the longest hitter, but the most accomplished amateur in Ireland at that time.

the ball at a cost of 30 strokes. Meanwhile, a Minister of State and a prominent local racehorse owner decided to have a private competition between themselves. Their particular course was about two miles shorter than the official one and ended with a putt to a hole made in the lawn of the racehorse owner's house.

April 1953 was a distinctly productive month for Joe Carr. On Tuesday the seventh, he captured the West of Ireland Championship at Rosses Point, beating Sutton club-mate R M McInnally on the final green. Just over two weeks later, on Wednesday the 22nd, he claimed the best-gross award in the Tostal Open 72-hole tournament at Royal Dublin.

We are also informed that a number of competitors did not finish the course, including three who stopped for "refreshments" and never reappeared. And in fading light, two competitors who had started six hours earlier, were seen to hobble disconsolately up to the finish with their golf shoes tied across their shoulders.

The Golden Ball came in between. "I remember I carried a spoon (three-wood), a four-iron and a short-iron, probably an eight or nine," recalled Carr, 50 years on. "The four-iron was specially made for me by the John Letters company and was probably the heaviest of its type anywhere in the world. I was the longest hitter in the country at the time so I suppose I would have been expected to win."

"Carr's National" and "Carr best in Curragh Grand National", the newspapers proclaimed the following morning. And he gained a repeat victory in 1955. His friend and rival, Noel Fogarty, was the champion in 1954 and 1956, and when the event was staged for the last time in its original format in 1957, victory went, appropriately, to four-handicap Army officer, Lt P J Cotter.

He went on: "You didn't know what was going to crop up from one shot to another. Looking back on it now, it was probably wide open to cheating and while there were some very tricky lies along the way, I can't remember taking any penalty drops."

In their issue of May 1953, the magazine Irish Golf reported: "The course was five miles but Joe Carr must have covered double that distance because, with the outstanding player's characteristic thoroughness, he insisted on walking every shot over the unfamiliar ground before he took a club in his hand.

"He lost three shots in the spinney behind the Camp but to use his own words, most of the time he was 'really burning them up with my spoon.' He must have been, given that 30 of his 52 strokes were spoon shots.!" Yet Carr didn't have things all his own way insofar as he was three strokes behind with only a quarter of the course remaining.

We are told that when Fogarty triumphed in 1954, he sank a 40-foot putt with a four-iron on the final green to tie, before winning a play-off. And a highlight the following year was a ball which lodged in a moving truck, prompting the sporting driver to stop the vehicle so as to allow the player climb on board and hit a perfect stroke back onto the course.

That was when the leader, in attempting to carry two copses and a road, got caught in trees and took 15 strokes to get out.

For years afterwards, he claimed that a motor-car horn had hooted as he was at the top of his backswing, causing him to snatch at the shot. Other players blamed ball-striking errors on the bleating of sheep.

Then there was the competitor who spent 15 minutes in a concrete trench over 12 feet deep before eventually extricating Page 84 Senior Times May/June 2014

As in most things, however, none of the subsequent stagings quite measured up to the first, especially with Carr at the heart of the action. So it was that while most of his fellow competitors were taking a well-earned rest, the Sutton man, who had had a 10.0am start, promptly returned to Dublin. His later exertions allowed "The Irish Times" of Monday, April 20th to report on "An entertaining golf exhibition" at Elm Park. It so happened that on the afternoon of his Curragh triumph, Carr partnered Philomena Garvey against Harry Bradshaw and Kitty MacCann in front of "a very large gallery".

Noting that Carr had come directly from the Curragh, he was reported as having taken "a little time to adjust himself to the narrower confines of the golf course", which would have explained a 2 and 1 defeat for himself and Garvey. Which was but a minor detail given that at the end of it all, he had been centre-stage for one of the most remarkable days in the history of Irish golf. www.seniortimes.ie

The Isle Of Man

The Perfect Escape Photos courtesy visitisleofman.com

The Sound Cafe

Peel Castle

Golf at Ramsey Steeped in history and legend, the beautiful Isle of Man packs so much into its 33 by 13 miles that it can sometimes feel like the Tardis – much bigger on the inside than it has any right to be.

A short ferry journey from Dublin, the Island truly has something for everyone; whether you want to pack your exploring boots, soak up the culture or just relax and take it easy, it’s a perfect escape from everyday life.

Thousands of years of Celtic and Viking heritage are ready to be discovered at award-winning sites and museums, including the magnificent Castle Rushen, one of the most preserved medieval castles in Europe, and the sprawling ruins of Peel Castle, said to be haunted by the ghost of a huge black dog, the Moddey Dhoo. Visit www.manxnationalheritage.im to find out more.

Walkers could be forgiven for thinking they’ve stumbled into paradise; a 272kilometre web of public rights of way allows you to ramble over hills and down valleys, through the Island’s 17 National Glens and around the entire coastline, following the breath-taking Raad ny Foillan – the Way of the Gull. For more details, www.visitisleofman.com/ walking www.seniortimes.ie

A major attraction in 2014 is ‘Island of Culture’, the largest celebration of arts and culture the Isle of Man has ever seen. Highlights this summer include the 40th Annual Mananan International Festival of Music and the Arts (June 15th-28th), Yn Chruinnaght Inter-Celtic Festival (July 16th-20th) and the British All Winners Play Festival (July 20th26th). Details of all IOC events can be found at www.islandofculture.im For golf lovers, the Island boasts nine challenging courses, including the acclaimed links course at Castletown, or for transport enthusiasts there is a host of fascinating treats in store – the Isle of Man Steam Railway, which dates back to 1874, is the longest narrow gauge steam line in Britain; the horse trams that ply their trade up and down Douglas Promenade were introduced in 1876, and then there is the Manx Electric Railway, which runs between Douglas and Ramsey, with a detour for the Snaefell Mountain Railway, which climbs to the highest place on the Island, 2,036ft above sea level – www.visitisleofman.com/railways Whatever the days have in store, you can round each one off with a meal in one of the wonderful restaurants – don’t miss the excellent locally-caught seafood – and a taste of a traditionallybrewed Manx beer.

Travel with the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company and you’ll also discover the comfort and convenience of taking theferry, which means you can take your car and, with no luggage fees, pack everything you need.

A Summer 5-Day Short Break for a car +2 adults costs from €120.50* each way. Visit www.steam-packet.com *Terms and conditions apply. Subject to availability. A combination of Dublin and Belfast ports should be considered. Valid for travel between 12.06.14 – 08.09.14.

Journeys must be completed within 5 days day of outward sailing counts as day 1.

Return sailing must commence on or before day 5.For payment by credit card, a fee of €4 applies per transaction, not per person.

Senior Times May/June 2014 Page 85

Active retirement

Erosion of rural amenities main concern for ARI Jim Collier reports on the AGM of Active Retirement Ireland which was held in Galway recently. It was the best attended AGM to date with almost 500 delegates and observers.

President Mai Quaid reported that one of the biggest issues for ARA’s was the serious erosion of country amenities and services, the latest being the attack on the rural post offices which were under serious threat despite assurances from the Government. For many Active Retirement members, their way of life had already seriously deteriorated, following the closure of 129 Garda stations, more than 200 branches of banks, and almost 1,300 rural pubs since 2011; they now faced the new threat of the closure of post offices in rural communities.

In conclusion the President paid tribute to the late Muiris Prenderville and Austin Mulhair both former Presidents who had given outstanding service to Active retirement in Ireland.

Widespread criticism of the Government was based on feedback from ARI members across the country, despite assurances from the Government that post offices would not be closed. (This is the same Government who assured us we would keep our pensions, and have been eroding their value steadily through stealth taxes). We are worried that they will just allow these rural communities. Recent studies by the Irish Centre for Social Gerontology show that older people in rural areas are more likely to become isolated and suffer from ill-health as a result.

Nominations

“Isolation is worse than smoking for the health of older people, This Government promised us the best small country in the world to grow old in, and instead they have the death of rural communities on their hands. We are calling on them to honour their commitments to older people and implement the National Positive Ageing Strategy, which has laid out the best way to keep older people, and their communities, thriving and successful.” (It is not only rural areas under threat from post office closures, many urban area post offices are also under threat. This current Government has not only failed to implement the much heralded introduction of The National Positive Ageing Strategy).

Page 86 Senior Times May/June 2014

Mai Quaid thanked all those who gave her so much support and those who welcomed her to the many ARA’s, and regions, etc which she had attended during the year. There were now 597 ARA’s in the south and 5 in the North, with some more wishing to join, it might be necessary to shortly found a northern region.

The nominations for the National Executive Officers and members, were for the existing members only, there would be no elections necessary. The following were therefore reaffirmed.: President: Mai Quaid – Baltinglass ARA Vice President: Eithne Carey – Renmore ARA Secretary: Pat Cussen - Moynalty ARA Treasurer: Kevin Molloy - Gorey ARA Executive Members: Arthur Dempsey – Bunbrosna / MultyFarnham/Ballinafid ARA, Maura Clohessy – Limerick City ARA, Jean Cole- Cabinteely ARA, Kay Loughnane – Murphy – Shannon ARA & Newmarket –onFergus ARA, Mary Daly - Bunbrosna / Multyfarnham/Ballinafid ARA, Bridget Fitzgibbon – Cashel ARA & Thurles ARA Company solicitor presentation: Following this James Clancy answered a number of legal questions that arose.

Honorary Treasurer’s report: Kevin Molloy, Honorary Treasurer presented the annual accounts and answered questions arising, in particular regarding future funding. There was considerable concern expressed particularly as the funding from Atlantic Philanthropists would conclude at the end of 2015.

The meeting recommenced with the report from the National Executive Committee presented by CEO Maureen Kavanagh., who commented on the many successes of AR-I in the past year.

These included participation in the Bloom Festival, the National Bowling Competition, the National Raffle, etc.

Motions considered Motion 1. Submitted by Lucan ARA: That AR-I develops a set of guidelines based on HIQA standards to provide guidance to ARA’s so as to improve the quality of life of members and promote best practice at ARA level : Motion left with Board for consideration.

Motion 2. Submitted by Star of the SeaStrandhill Co Sligo: That an annual scholarship be awarded by AR-I to deserving student from a disadvantaged educational background in order to encourage him/her to undertake further studies, preferably at college: Motion left with Board for consideration.

Motion 3. That copies of all reports be circulated to all affiliated associations at least 2 weeks before the AGM: Motion carried.

Motion 4. Submitted by Dun Laoghaire ARA, Co Dublin: That the Active retirement Association be dissolved and that the entire business of the Association, including Assets, liabilities and obligations, be transferred to a limited company Active Retirement Ireland with effect from January 1st 2015: Motion rejected.

Motion 5. Submitted by Dun Laoghaire ARA, Withdrawn Motion 6. Submitted by Quin Ara Co Clare: That Active Retirement members question what services the water charges are covering and also that Active Retirement makes representation to the government to give consideration to Pensioners and low income families when paying these charges: Motion carried. www.seniortimes.ie

Advice

Know Your Rights My 12-year old granddaughter is spending a lot of time online. According to her mother, I know she uses the web for homework and other activities but she is worried about how to protect her from cyber-bullying and other dangers.

Where can she get help and advice?

Advice from the Citizens Information Service

My house was flooded and badly damaged during the recent bad weather. What help can I get?

The Irish Office for Internet Safety (part of the Department of Justice, Equality and Law Reform) publishes a Guide to Internet Safety for Parents. It summarises the key areas of concern and suggests ways to help children benefit from the internet while staying safe. The Guide suggests that parents should: • Be involved with what their children are doing online and be familiar with the systems they use • Talk to their children about potential dangers and encourage them to talk to you about any difficulties they may be having • Set guidelines on internet usage and encourage their children to treat other users with respect • Use available resources, such as filtering, blocking and parental control systems to help protect children from inappropriate or obscene content • Keep computers where they can see them and keep an eye on the sites y children are visiting It’s also important that children understand that people they communicate with online may not be what they seem. In particular they should be careful about how they interact with others and the information that they disclose to others. Any instances of suspected online child abuse should be reported to hotline.ie (run by the Internet Service Providers Association of Ireland) immediately.

Other resources for parents include the Webwise website from the Irish Internet Safety Awareness Centre which promotes the safe, responsible use of the internet and mobile devices by children and young people. Visit webwise.ie to access internet safety information, advice and educational resources.

Watchyourspace.ie is a website for young people. It aims to empower and support young people as they take action to address bullying, in particular cyber-bullying, in their communities. www.seniortimes.ie

The Department of Social Protection’s Humanitarian Assistance Scheme provides means-tested emergency financial help immediately following flooding. It does not provide compensation for damage. The Government has not set a limit on the amount that can be paid to an individual household under this scheme. The amount paid depends on how severe the damage is and your ability to meet these costs. The DSP also provides exceptional and urgent needs payments which can help in the aftermath of a flood.

The scheme covers: • Emergency income support payments • Damage to your home and its essential contents (such as carpets, floors, furniture and household appliances and bedding) Structural damage may be considered. The Scheme does not cover losses covered by an insurance policy, commercial and business losses or damage to private rented or local authority accommodation.

All household income will be considered in the means test.

Single people with a gross household income of €30,000 or less can get 100% of the amount allowable in their case. Couples or one-parent households with income of under €50,000 can also get 100% of the amount allowable. The limits are increased by €10,000 for each qualified child. For each whole €1,000 of household income above the income limit that applies to you, you will be required to make a 1% contribution to the amount allowable.

So, for example, if you are single and have a gross household income of €35,000 you will get 95% of the amount allowable (€5,000 over the income limit of €30,000 = 5% personal contribution towards the loss).

Senior Times May/June 2014 Page 87

Visit the website, flooding.ie, for more information on coping in the aftermath of a flood. Further information is available from the Citizens Information Centre.

you must give your employer at least four weeks’ written notice. This can be given at the same time as the initial notice to take adoptive leave.

I’ve just lost my job. What are the procedures for getting a jobseeker’s payment?

You should apply for Adoptive Benefit six weeks before you intend to go on adoptive leave.

If you lose your job (or if your working hours are reduced) you may qualify for a social welfare payment, either Jobseeker’s Allowance (which is means-tested) or Jobseeker’s Benefit (which is based on PRSI contributions). You must apply to the Department of Social Protection (DSP) for these payments.

Since 6 January 2014 the payment rate for Adoptive Benefit has been standardised at €230 per week for new applicants.

This change applies to new claimants since that date.

Claimants who were getting the payment before that date are not affected by the change and continue to receive an amount based on their income, with a minimum of €217.80 and a maximum of €262. Adoptive Benefit is taxable but not liable for the Universal Social Charge or Pay Related Social Insurance (PRSI).

Adoptive Benefit can be paid directly into your bank or building society account.

When you apply for a jobseeker’s payment you declare that you are available for, capable of and genuinely seeking work but are unable to find work. This is also known as ‘signing on’.

Many DSP local social welfare offices are now Intreo centres.

Intreo is a new service which offers a single point of contact for payments and employment supports.

When you visit an Intreo centre to sign on for the first time, you should go to the reception area. The DSP staff will check your eligibility for a jobseeker’s payment, arrange an appointment for you to have your claim processed, give you the application form and tell you what documents you need to bring to your appointment. You can submit your application online in some locations.

At your appointment, DSP staff will review and process your application. In many cases a decision on your jobseeker’s payment can be made immediately. All new applicants for j obseeker’s payments will get a Public Service Card. You will also be given details of an information session that you must attend. You will be told about the full range of support services available at this session.

You may also be given an appointment for a further meeting with a case officer. At this meeting your case officer will agree a Personal Progression Plan for finding employment with you.

You will also be asked to sign a Record of Mutual Commitment which outlines your rights and responsibilities while you are getting a jobseeker’s payment. You will get ongoing advice and support to help you meet the goals in your Personal Progression Plan. However, if you do not attend meetings or take part in recommended programmes or courses, your jobseeker’s payment can be reduced.

I’ve just adopted a child and applied for Adoptive Benefit. The amount and period of the Adoptive Benefit that I have been granted were not what I expected. How long should I be able get Adoptive Benefit for and how much should it be?

Adoptive Benefit is a payment to an adopting mother or a single male who adopts a child. It is paid for a continuous period of 24 weeks from the date your child is placed with you. However you will not get Adoptive Benefit for the full 24 weeks unless your adoptive leave begins on the date of placement. If you begin your adoptive leave after the date of placement, you will lose some of your Adoptive Benefit entitlement.

You must give four weeks’ notice to your employer of your intention to take adoptive leave before the expected placement of the child (for both foreign and domestic adoptions). As soon as is reasonably practicable you must give your employer the expected date of the placement.

You can also take up to a further 16 weeks’ additional adoptive leave, but this period is not covered by Adoptive Benefit, nor is your employer obliged to make any payment during this period unless otherwise agreed.

If you intend to take the 16 weeks' additional adoptive leave Page 88 Senior Times May/June 2014

I moved house earlier this year but have not registered to vote at my new address. Is it too late for me to register to vote in the local elections next month?

You can still be added to the register for the local and European elections which will be held on Friday 23 May 2014.

The Register of Electors is published every year on 1 February but the closing date for submitting changes to the last draft Register was November 25 –before you moved to your new address.

You can check if you are on the register at checktheregister.ie or at your local authority, Garda station, post office or public library.

If you are on the register but your previous address is listed, you can have your new address added to the supplement by completing form RFA3. The form is available online at checktheregister.ie or from your local authority, post office or public library. This will also remove you from the register for your previous address.

My daughter claimed the One-Parent Family Tax Credit last year because she shares custody with her son and her former partner. Her notice of tax credits for 2014 didn’t include it and she was told she can’t claim it any more if she claims it. Why is this?

The One-Parent Family Tax Credit (OPFTC) was a credit for people parenting alone that reduced the amount of tax that they had to pay. If a child stayed with each of its parents for some part of the year, then both parents could claim the full amount of the tax credit for that tax year.

The OPFTC was abolished at the end of 2013 and the Single Person Child Carer Credit (SPCCC) was introduced from 1 January 2014.

Only one parent can claim the SPCCC in a tax year. In general, the SPCCC is given to the person with whom the qualifying child lives for the whole or greater part of the year (more than 6 months). This person is called the primary claimant. If both parents have equal custody (by court order), entitlement to the credit is decided by which parent gets Child Benefit.

When the SPCCC was introduced, Revenue automatically allocated the new credit to people who were due to receive a One-Parent Family Tax Credit and were also getting Child Benefit. If you believe that you qualify as the primary claimant but the credit has been granted automatically to your former partner, you should complete Form SPCC1 (available from www.seniortimes.ie

Revenue) and return it with any relevant evidence in support of your claim. In the event of a dispute you can appeal Revenue's determination to the Appeal Commissioners.

your passport within 10 working days, but it may take longer at busy times of the year. Check passport.ie for current turnaround times. The standard adult passport costs €80 through Passport Express, with a processing charge of €9 – a total charge of €89. You can hand in your completed application at any An Post office.

If your daughter’s former partner is the primary claimant, she can choose to give up the credit so that you can claim it. To do this, she submits Form SPCC1 and you submit Form SPCC2. She must meet the qualifying conditions and her son must live with her for more than 100 days in a year (for the purpose of this limit, it can count as a day if he is with her for most of the day).

The Passport Office no longer accepts applications submitted by regular or registered post from applicants living in Ireland and it is not possible to apply online.

Applying in person at the Passport Office costs €95 and is only recommended if you are due to travel in less than ten days. In this case, you can use the Passport Appointment Booking Service, passportappointments.ie. There is an additional Urgent Fee of €55 if you need your passport issued in 3–5 working days. It is not usually possible to issue a passport in less than three days unless immediate travel is required due to the death or serious illness of a family member or because you need emergency medical treatment.

She cannot claim the SPCCC if she is jointly assessed as a married person or civil partner; cohabiting; married or in a civil partnership (unless separated).

The SPCCC is €1,650 in 2014. If she gets the SPCCC she is also entitled to an €4,000 extension in the standard rate tax band, increasing it to €36,800 I’m planning a trip abroad later this year but my passport will expire a couple of weeks before I’m due to travel. Will that leave me with enough time to renew my passport before I travel? Can I renew it before its expiry date?

If you are concerned about forgetting to renew your passport in time, the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade provides a Passport Reminder Service, which sends you a reminder email before your passport is due to expire. You can register for this service at passport.ie.

You can apply for a new passport before your current one has expired. In this case your new passport will run from when you apply rather than from the expiry date of your current passport. You can get a passport renewal application form at any Garda station or An Post office. It is not available online.

The time it takes to renew a passport can vary, depending on how you make the application. The Passport Office recommends sending your application using An Post's Passport Express service. In general, this guarantees that you will get

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Know Your Rights has been compiled by Citizens Information Service which provides a free and confidential service to the public. Information is also available online at citizensinformation.ie and from the Citizens Information Phone Service, 0761 07 4000.

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Books Walking back to happiness A Long Walk South: An Irishman’s Trek on the GR5, by Sean Rothery, The Collins Press, €12.99 In the popular recent novel, The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry, retiree Harold walks almost 1,000km. But in this book, life imitates art as 66-year-old Sean Rothery walks from the North Sea to the Mediterranean on a real adventure. This is the true story of a ‘retired’ person’s response to being told that his useful life is over. When architect Sean attended a mandatory retirement course, little did he know it would inspire him to walk farther than the ‘couple of miles’ advised by the doctor.

Sean sets from the steely grey North Sea with the intense of the Mediterranean – 2,300km – firmly in his sights. Following the GR5 (Grand Randonee Cinq), he walks through lowlands, up hills and across mountains with his sketchbook in hand. He takes in the landscape, history and culture as he passes from one country to another, meeting other walkers and friends who joined him at various stages of the journey. As well as the pleasure of their company they were the bearers of fresh supplies such as maps, books, and clothes. Despite the loneliness of his solitary walking, he often feels the restless urge to keep going at his own pace and is frustrated by the need to keep to others’ speeds.

The GRs were established in France after the Second World War to link up bridal paths, forest trails, canal towpaths, riverbanks, Roman roads, minor roads and mountain passes, to create a huge and intricate network of walking routes. One of the earliest of these was the Grande Randonne Cinq, the GR5, which originally stretched from the northerly tip of the Vosges mountains, through the Jura, before transversing the French Alps to Nice.

The waymark for the GR5 is a distinctive red and white sign that – frustratingly for Sean and other walkers – changed in Luxembourg, from Ouren to Beaufort it was a yellow round disc; from Beaufort to Ecternach, a green triangle on a Page 90 Senior Times May/June 2014

Summer Reading white ground; from Ecternach to Wellenstein, a yellow triangle and from Wellenstein to the French frontier, the yellow round disc again. To make matters even more confusing these were all markers for different internal paths through Luxembourg and just shared (the now totally unrecognised) GR5, for certain stretches.

Heartbreak Hotel Love Me or Leave Me, by Claudia Carroll, Avon Books £10.99 Two years ago Chloe Townsend was dumped at the altar and had to leave behind everything that mattered to her.

Even now she’ finding it hard to move forward.

That is until she lands a great job running a new boutique hotel.

This is a pioneering ‘divorce hotel’ designed to make every aspect of breaking up efficient and pain-free. In one single weekend, Chloe’s team promises to take care of everything – legal, technical, emotional – and guests check out carefree and single.

No one is better qualified than Chloe to understand what couples need when their relationship is at breaking point.

But she soon finds herself having to tackle the heartbreak she’s tried to bury. The opening weekend is full of revelation, trouble, memories, happy and sad, fact that need facing.

The forgotten campaign Theatres of War by RJJ Hall, Matador, £9.99 While restoring a house in Umbria, RJJ Hall discovered the real impact of World War Two on Italy by talking to Italian neighbours and friends. The book has now made it to the finals of ‘The Peoples Book

Prize’ and the ‘forgotten campaign. In Italy during WW2 is now on the radar of more people thanks to the success of Richard’s debut novel.

Said Richard: ‘I’ve had incredible feedback from people who have read my book and tell me they are inspired by the story. In much the same way I was moved by my research into the misery of fighting at Monte Cassino (1943-45) and the San Carlo theatre in Naples. Both stories moved me intensely and these feelings were heightened by the contrast between events only 50 miles apart.

‘For a long time the disparity simmered at the back of my mind. Then unbidden, came the idea of a young woman linked to two soldiers: one fighting at Cassino, the other running a theatre in Naples. I felt connected with this in many ways – not least because of my time as Finance Director for the Royal Opera House and a lifelong love of opera, and became determined to write it as a novel. My ambition was achieved after six years of intensive research and many drafts’.

1014 and all that 1014: Brian Boru and The Battle for Ireland, Morgan Llywelyn, Obrien Press, €11.99 Vicious hand-tohand fighting with state-of-the-art weapons took place in the swamps of Dublin a thousand years ago in a fight to control Ireland, once and for all.

More than a confrontation between the Gael and Norse, this battle embodies a complex mix of loyalties, with Gael and Norse on both sides.

With a novelist’s sense of narrative and a historian’s sense of accuracy, Morgan Llywelyn constructs the most accessible account ever for this famous battle. She untangles the intricacies of the Irish chieftaincy and inheritance systems, the interconnection between families and the conflicts that led to the battle. She draws, in vivid detail, the extraordinary www.seniortimes.ie

characters who occupied the Norse world – and how they met on various sides in this famous and decisive battle.

As Ireland marks the millennial anniversary of the Battle of Clontarf, Morgan Llywelyn brings the battle and the legendary Brian Boru to lifer as never before.

Morgan Llywelyn is the author of nineteen books. She has written for both adults and children. Her books include Lion of Ireland, an international bestselling historical novel on the life of Brian Boru, and Brian Boru, Emperor of the Irish for younger readers.

The long road back In My Room: The Recovery Journey Encountered by a Psychiatrist, By Jim Lucey, Gill & Macmillan, €16.99 Professor Jim Lucey tell the stories of patients on a journey to recovery from mental illness.

One in four people in Ireland are affected by a mental health problem, yet there is still a reluctance to talk about it. The author hopes his book will highlight the importance of finding time and space to discuss our feelings for anyone affected by mental illness.

Lucy has taken the bold step of telling these stories to the general public in order to break down the barriers between patients with mental illness and healthcare professionals. While the patient stories are diverse, one common theme emerges – that of recovery.

Among those you will journey with are Liam: ‘Sooner or later I will be found out and I dread to thing what will happen then; Alyson: ‘People never trust you again if they find out that you have mental health problems. If I lose that trust I’ll never get it back’; Margaret: ‘I feel like I’m knitting myself back together again. I’m determined to stay well’.

Jim Lucey has been working with patients suffering from mental health problems for over 25 years. When people are their most vulnerable for arrive at his room in St Patricks University Hospital, Dublin, they reveal their fears, traumas and very real human predicaments.

www.seniortimes.ie

Last among equals Thomas Clarke, by Helen Litton, O’Brien Press, €12.99 Thomas Clarke is the latest in the 16 Lives series – all the signatories to the Proclamation – in this biography by his great Niece.

The name of Thomas J Clarke may come first among the Proclamation of the Irish Republic, but he has always been a poorly-defined character in the history of 1916. A born conspirator, Tom Clarke was in fact pivotal to the preparations for the Rising, but always in the background. His tobacconist’s shop in central Dublin was a centre of IRB activity, and here he and his equally committed wife, Kathleen Daly, worked tirelessly for Ireland’s freedom.

Helen Litton recounts Clarke’s early life, his fifteen years imprisonment for dynamite offences, his early married life in the USA, his return to Ireland in 1908, and his gradual emergence as one of the most important figures in the IRB, recruiting young men such as Sean MacDiarmada and Patrick Pearse to the cause.

Travellers at a crossroad Flight by Oona Frawley, Gill & Macmillan, €13 Flight is the story of four travellers as their journeys intersect one winter in Dublin.

Sandrine, a Zimbabwean woman who has left her husband and son behind in the hope of making a better life for them in Ireland, is alone and secretly pregnant. She finds herself working as a carer for Tom and Clare, a couple whose travels are ending as their minds begin to fail. Meanwhile Elizabeth, their world-weary daughter, carries the weight of her own body’s secret. Set in Ireland in 2004 as a referendum on citizenship approaches, Flight is a well observed story of family and belonging, following the gestation of a friendship during a year of crisis. As story of arrival and departure, the newly found and left behind, Flight is among a

new breed of Irish novel – one that recognises the global nature of Irish experience in the late 20th century, and one that considers Ireland in the aftermath of the failed Celtic Tiger.

Born in New York to Irish actor parents, Oona Frawley settled in Ireland in 1999 and completed her PhD in 2001 and has lectured in English at Maynooth since 2008

Upstairs and downstairs with a twist Dangerous Decisions, by Margaret Kane, Choc Lit, £7.99 Dangerous Decisions has been described as ‘Downton with a twist’. It is a deeply romantic novel, with an underlying darker side. Based on a broad canvas with ‘upstairs’ snobbery and ambition, and ‘downstairs’ kitchen humour and gossip, the story is laced with vivid characters and beautiful houses. But all capital cities have their poverty, and London in 1905 was no exception. The story is told of a sheltered debutante, who although attracted to a stranger, Dr Nicholas Carstairs, is courted by the enigmatic Oliver Faraday. Despite her misgivings and to please her father, Helena agrees to marry him. But the marriage brings with it bewilderment, suspense and danger. Helena’s wedding night leaves her feeling used and in tears, and so begins an emotional journey to discover her husband’s flawed character. The birth of their child is the beginning of her worst nightmare. And to torment Helena, always in the background there is Nicholas, the young doctor who – too late – she knows to be her soul mate.

Edwardian society with all its elegance and constricting social conventions is the bedrock of this novel of love and betrayal. And portrayed also is the fledgling emergence of women’s independence.

The old forge in Aughrim. Aughrim has won the Tidy Towns contest Overall Award numerous times. From This is Wicklow by Michael Delahunty, The Collins Press, €19.99 Senior Times May/June 2014 Page 91

Meeting Place RETIRED DUBLIN-BASED MALE DOCTOR, 61, widower, no ties, GSOH, WLTM independent woman with no ties.

Interests include golf, current affairs, and travel.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S1 TALL DIVORCED 48 YEAR OLD MIDLANDS LADY, seeks tall, single professional gentleman, mid-50s with no ties, who is honest, generous and caring. Interests include travel, dancing, concerts, cinema, boating and sport.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S2 DUBLIN-BASED RETIRED MALE TEACHER, widower, no ties, WLTM educated lady for friendship and to share interests in the arts, walking and music.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S3 PROFESSIONAL FEMALE, 60, AVERAGE HEIGHT, NS, SD. Separated and run own business. Interests include reading and exercise and watching sport. Looking to meet gent in similar circumstances.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S4

walking, theatre. Must be tall and attractive, NS and SD only.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S10 LIMERICK LADY, 60s, interests include social interaction, travel, current affairs, dining out, theatre, gardening, WLTM other women for friendship, shared socialising and possible travel.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S11 SINGLE DUBLIN LADY, LATE SEVENTIES, interested in walks, visiting historical places of scenic or religious interest, WLTM a lady, single or window, who would also be interested in such things, who has a car and would like a companion to share the experiences. Also interested in gardening, forest walks, concerts, theatre, cinema.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S12 CORK LADY MID-50s, young at heart.

Interests include music, walks, theatre, cinema, WLTM gent with similar interests.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S13

CORK CITY RETIRED MAN WLTM sincere lady to enjoy Golden Years with. Interest include foreign holidays, current affairs and the simple things in life NS preferred.

Genuine replies only. ALA REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S5

WOMAN, 70, with lots of interests, seeks male and/or female pen friends with a possibility of later meeting. Big interest in ‘art’ cinema, classical music, jazz, history, reading, cooking, a glass of wine, etc.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S14

DIVORCED WICKLOW LADY, 50S, NS, interested in travelling, walking, cinema, music, reading and eating out. WLTM gent with similar interests.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S6

LIMERICK WOMAN MID 60s, unattached, semi-retired, young in outlook, caring and sincere, personable and outgoing. Interests include ready, lively conversation, travel, politics, theatre. WLTM gentleman with similar interests and has a GSOH. REPLY TO BOX S15

DUBLIN GENT, NEVER MARRIED, 67, cheerful, cultured, unpretentious, presentable, respectful. Seeks positive lady to share the joy of life, the joy of giving and the joy of laughter. Perhaps we may discover great love also. Too many interests to mention.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S7 WEST MEATH, attractive, slim, active, spontaneous, degree educated woman, 58, GSOH and love of life, seeks sincere man with similar qualities.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S8 WEST MEATH MAN, public servant, WLTM interesting female 40-55 for friendship and travelling. Interests include cycling, boating/camping, walking and hill walking, cinema, amateur drama, current affairs and travelling.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER S9 SEPARATED WOMAN, MID-60s, WLTM a nice gentleman for companionship and friendship. Interests include poetry, dancing, travel, dining out, bridge, Page 92 Senior Times May/June 2014

CLASSY DUBLIN LADY, early sixties, recently returned to Ireland after living abroad for many years, engaging, fit attractive with outgoing personality. Seeks shy, sophisticated gent who is active, fit and has sound family values.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J1 DUBLIN LADY, pleasant, outgoing widow, 60s, NS, enjoy a glass of wine, WLTM a kind widower for friendship and companionship.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J2 MID 60s DUBLIN WIDOWER WLTM a quiet type woman. Interests include writing, but don’t dance.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J3 CORK LADY, 63. Interests include animals, history, dancing, socialising, walking and nature. WLTM a kind, respectable gent, single or widower.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J4

CAVAN MAN, interests include the arts, reading and nature, seeks woman with similar interests for friendship, outings, etc.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J5 ANCIENT DUBLIN LADY seeks ancient man to hobble across the dance floor together.

NS, ND, can recite a poem to amuse.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J6 WICKLOW WOMAN, 60, interests include walking, yoga, gardening and cinema, WLTM people with similar interests for friendship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J7 PROFESSIONAL DUBLIN WOMAN, 50, WLTM man, 50-60, for friendship and companionship.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J8 ATTRACTIVE, SOUTH COUNTY DUBLIN WOMAN, late 50s, NS, SD, interests include reading, bridge, sailing, tennis, travel, walking theatre and eating out, WLTM man late 50s to mid-60s with similar interests for friendship/relationship.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J9 ACTIVE RETIRED OFFALY WOMAN, 60s, WLTM lady and gent for travel at home and abroad. Interests include music, dancing, walking, travel.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J10 SOUTH CO DUBLIN LADY, LATE 50s, divorced, youthful. Interests include reading, sailing tennis, eating out etc.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J11 CORK LADY, 60s, SINGLE, WLTM correspond with males and females for friendships. Interests include reading, art, animals and the simple things in life.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J12 ATTRACTIVE, ACTIVE, DUBLIN LADY, 70, NS, GSOH. Interests include tennis, ski-ing, yachting, classical music, languages and travel. WLTM refined gentleman with similar interests.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER J13 MIDLANDS MAN, MID-FIFTIES seeks female companion. Interests include writing, fishing, walking, meeting people.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E1 www.seniortimes.ie

FEMININE, ATTRACTIVE NORTH COUNTY DUBLIN woman WLTM classy, male companion 50/60s. Interests include travel, music, theatre, good conversation and laughter.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E2 MEATH WOMAN, EARLY FIFTIES, WLTM men in the Dublin area aged 50-55 for friendship. Interests include reading, music and dining out.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E3 GALWAY WIDOW, NS, SD, GSOH, likes music, swimming, walking, reading. WLTM honest, caring gentleman for further friendship, relationship.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E4 WIDOWER EARLY 70s, GSOH, many interests, WLTM sincere lady with many interests who lives in North Dublin or North County Dublin, for friendship and socialising. NS, ND preferred.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E5 OFFALY WIDOW, LATE 60s, GSOH, enjoys music, dancing, reading, walking, travel, WLTM sincere gentleman with similar interests for friendship, companionship.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E6 DUBLIN DIVORCED FEMALE, 60, intelligent, attractive, WLTM for companionship, socialising. Interests include walking, yoga, eating out, dancing. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E7 60s YOUNG WOMAN seeks male ballroom dance partner to attend social dances in the Dublin area. Having attained bronze level in both International Standard andLatin dances seeks partner who leads well; a plus if that person likes to dance the Hustle. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E8

INTERESTED? If you are interested in meeting someone of the opposite or same sex send your advertisement to: Meeting Place, Senior Times, Unit 1, 15 Oxford Lane, Ranelagh, Dublin 6.

Or email:john@slp.ie Please ensure you include your postal address for those not on the Net. Deadline for advertisements for the next printed issue of Senior Times and website listings is June 23rd 2014 Important: When replying to advertisements in Senior Times, please enclose a stamp for each reply. We cannot accept email advertisements which do not also provide a postal address

TALL SOUTH DUBLIN RC professional lady, NS, SD, GSOH, seeks tall single RC professional gentleman, 60s with no ties, who is honest, generous and caring.

Interests include travelling, dancing, theatre, concerts, cinema, cooking and sport, especially GAA. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E9 GALWAY MAN LATE FIFTIES, interests include walking, reading, travelling, hobby farming and gardening. WLTM woman of similar age and interests.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E10 DUBLIN SINGLE LADY MID 50s, slim, attractive, NS, SD. Interests include reading, walking, keep fit, theatre, cinema, music, travel, dining out and good conversation. WLTM refined gent 50-60 with similar interests in the Dublin area.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E11 SOCIABLE, ACTIVE RETIRED FEMALE NURSE, 66, from Laois WLTM new friends for travel and socialising. Interests include walking, cycling, baking, current affairs, etc. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E12 MIDLANDS MAN, EARLY 60s, who has had an interesting and varied work career to date, and has travelled extensively, interested in cinema, dining out, travel, ‘catholic’ music, seeks the company of educated, articulate people.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E13 ATTRACTIVE, WARM, SELF ASSURED North West woman, would like to connect with intelligent man in his 50s/60s who is looking for friendship/romance. Visits Dublin frequently. Interests include music, the arts, yoga, reading, good conversation and dining out. Member of Toastmasters.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E14 MIDLANDS, ACTIVE, ATTRACTIVE LADY, 53, widowed, NS, SD, GSOH. Interests include theatre, triathlons. Theatre, reading, gardening. WLTM gentleman of similar age and interests to share fun times. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E15

SOUTH DUBLIN WIDOW, 70s, WLTM similar aged man for companionship who is warm and kind and nice to be with.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E19 WORKING DUBLIN MAN LATE-50s interested in travel, music, sport etc.

WLTM a lady in the Dublin area for friendship.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E20 RETIRED CORK MAN, 60s, interested in dancing, music sessions, travel gardening.

Young at heart. WLTM ladies and gents for friendship as life can be lonely.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E21 CORK LADY 60s interested in having male and female pen friends. Interests include art, reading, nature, animals, cinema, travel.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER T1 ATTRACTIVE SELF ASSURED CONNAUGHT WOMAN, 60s with strong links to Dublin.

Good communicator, love nature, walking.

Interested in cities and art, love good conversation and a glass of wine.

WLTM astute man 50s/60s for friendship and possibility more.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER T2 MIDLANDS GENT, GSOH, NO TIES, many interests including travel, reading, walking. WLTM caring lady for friendship, companionship, relationship.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER T3 Notices CARER AVAILABLE CARER, with over 20 years’ experience, available to take care of elderly in own home. Available for day and night work.

References available. Living in Meath area but have car and can travel. Please contact Margaret on 087 4131654 or email mags.donohue@yahoo.ie MISSING PERSON

ATTRACTIVE FEMALE 50s SOUTH DUBLIN, with outgoing personality, NS, SD horse lover and keen racegoer, enjoys dancing, travel and eating out, seeks male with similar interests.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E16 MID-50s SEPARATED MIDLANDS MAN. Interests include writing, music, fly fishing, walking. WLTM lady with similar interests. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E17 NORTH COUNTY DUBLIN LADY, 73.

Interests include theatre, bridge, reading, good company. WLTM a nice man, similar age who is warm hearted, NS, moderate drinker.

REPLY TO BOX NUMBER E18

From Lucan, County Dublin area since March 30th (Mother’s Day).

Tomás Moffett, aged 53, 5ft 9-10. Possibly wearing royal blue rain jacket. Last seen at Strawberry Beds. Keen walker along canals, parks. Any sightings since March 30th, or other information to Lucan Garda Station 01 6667300 Senior Times May/June 2014 Page 93

Crossword

Bumper Crossword (No.64)

by Zoë Devlin

ACROSS

DOWN

1 8 11 14 17 18 19 20 21 23 25 28 29 30 31 32 34 38 39 41 42 43 47 49 50 55 58 59 61 64 65 66 68 72 73 75 78 80 82 84 85 86 89 91 93 94 95 98 99 100

2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 22 24 25 26 27 29 32 33 35 36 37 39 40 44 45 46 48 51 52 53 54 56 57 60 62 63 64 67 69 70 71 74 75 76 77 79 81 83 87 88 90 92 95 96 97

Paul Michael Glaser & David Soul’s ’70’s TV series (7,3,5) See 32 Across.

Mentally alert, stylish or bright (5) Helen Mirren was Jane Tennison in ‘Prime ___‘ (7) Made or constructed by interlacing threads (5) Person who rules or guides (6) And 66. ‘Inspector ___ ___‘, does things in a soft manner (6,6) St Columba’s Scottish island (4) Effigy which frightens off the birds (9) Totally uninformed - not like this crossword! (8) Sound made by a cat (3) John Wayne & John Ford’s 1939 film (10) Flattery or Co Cork castle? (7) Raymond Burr was this wheelchair-bound detective (8) Vast grassy Argentinian plains (6) And 8 Across. TV series starring Alan Davies (8,5) French policeman (8) Bark in a high-pitched tone (3) And 2 & 27 Down. Angela Lansbury’s TV series (6,3,5) Drinking vessel or fall guy? (3) Appalled - horrified (6) Nocturnal flying insect (4) A trucker can use this to open walnuts (10) Uncover - unveil (6) Aquatic invertebrate such as mussel or crab (9) Michael Kitchen’s detective series of post-war Britain (5'1, 3) Martin ___, German theologian (6) Surreptitious or clandestine (10) Engrave or cut into something (4) Young swan (6) ___ Taylor, twice married to Richard Burton (3) See 19 Across.

Former capital of Brazil (3) 1980’s TV series set in Jersey (8) Legendary native American leader (8) Catchword or motto (6) Plunders, rifles or pillages (8) English writer who wrote ‘The Time Machine’ (1,1,5) U.S. pianist and singer of ‘Blueberry Hill’ (4,6) Compete or contend (3) Shouted or yelled (8) Single - not wed (9) Creator of ‘Dracula’, Abraham ‘___‘ Stoker (4) From these, oak trees grow (6) Place of safety (6) Small pendant lobe at back of palate (5) Do singers find this entry? (7) Eric Morecambe’s little pal, ___ Wise (5) Type of literary composition (5) Weil & Brecht’s cheap musical composition? (10,5)

Page 94 Senior Times May/June 2014

See 39 Across.

Up to the present time (3) You can’t teach an old dog these! (3,6) Mayhem .. violent disturbance (5) Aluminium wrapping for use in cooking (7) Radiant light around the head of saint (4) Farrah Fawcett-Majors was one of these detectives (7’1, 6) XI or a football team? (6) Unit of power = 1000 watts (2) Felt hat worn by cowboys (7) Port in SW Scotland (3) 70’s series with John Thaw & Denis Waterman (3,7) Multi-tool, with screwdriver, can opener & blade (5,4,5) Strappy summer shoe (6) Type of lettuce with long leaves (3) Butcher’s knife or wingless aircraft? (7) Solemn or sincere (7) French detective, loved ragtime? (7) Welsh actress Catherine ___ Jones (4) See 39 Across.

Hiss or shout of disapproval (3) Ewing brother, but who shot him? (1,1) Sicken or upset, makes one at unease? (8) Not bright - indistinct (3) Indifference - lacking enthusiasm (6) Podium or raised platform (4) ‘Inspector ___‘, John Thaw’s Oxford detective (5) Female sheep (3) Lout or awkward person (3) Perhaps ___ XVI, perhaps ___ Cumberbatch? (8) Conan Doyle’s detective, always ‘elementary’? (8,6) Sound made by crows and rooks (3) Small hole in a needle (3) Sharon Gless & Tyne Daly’s series ‘Cagney & ___‘ (5) Turn inside out or upside down (6) Princess, could only be woken by prince’s kiss (8,6) Anita Brookner’s 1984 novel ‘Hotel du ___‘ (3) Feeling of intense anger (4) Indicates maiden name of married woman (3) Playwright ___ Rattigan or actor ____Stamp (7) Quality of a colour (3) Unsweetened biscuit, or Robbie Coltrane’s detective (7) Dustin Hoffman dressed as female for this film (7) Abridge or shorten (10) Thick woollen, woven fabric (5) Personal Assistant in short (1.1.)

Not hers (3) Set of steps to access next floor (9) Absent without permission (1.1.1.1) Ferocious, savage or furious (6) State of not being there! (7) Relaxed, dreaminess (7) Gentle affectionate stroke (6) Shade of blue (5) Oxford tutor or Spanish nobleman? (3) Gusto - relish (4) Possess or have (3) Electrically charged particle (3) Leaders’ headquarters during Easter Rising (1.1.1.)

You and I (2) www.seniortimes.ie

Win a gourmet culture break for two at the Strand Hotel, Limerick Hotel Reviews Ireland in association with Senior Times are delighted to offer two lucky readers the opportunity to win a Gourmet Culture Break for two people at the award winning 4* Limerick Strand Hotel.

Send the completed crossword to: Crossword Competition, Senior Times, 15 Oxford Lane, Ranelagh, Dublin 6.

Deadline for receipt of entries is 7th July. The first correct entry drawn is the winner.

Name:......................................................... Address:......................................................................... ......................................................................................................................................................

Senior Times August/September 2011 Page 71 Phone: ..........................................................Email: ..........................................................................

Page 86 Senior Times September 2013 www.seniortimes.ie www.seniortimes.ie

Senior Times July 2013 Page 85

Crafts

Reflecting on dancing days Connie McEvoy shows how to make a handbag mirror

This project was worked years ago, and was never out of my handbag during the years of my dancing nights.

Cross stitch is not one of my favourite pastimes but this little project has always had a special place in my heart because it was inspired by something that my Grandma Kelly said to me as she shook my hand while bidding me farewell on Sunday January 3rd 1960.

As a member of Bunclody Macra Na Tuaithe I had travelled the three miles to her house on a bike in order to tell her that I had been awarded a six week E.S.B. Scholarship Course consisting of lectures, educational films and specialised instruction on the use of electricity in the following subjects: cooking, laundering, housekeeping, poultry-keeping, dairying, gardening, dressmaking and handicraft at An Grianan, Termonfeckin.

Although she was 91 years of age then she wanted to hear every detail of this course and questioned me about it all afternoon. When I told her that I was going the next morning she instructed me to go home and get ready at once.

On taking leave of grandma it was usual for her to shake my hand and in doing so she would deposit a half crown in my palm saying there’s some paw-grease for you. That evening she seemed sad as she said good bye, good luck and don’t forget us, when she deposited a ten shilling note in my palm with the Page 96 Senior Times May/June 2014

instruction that I was to go to the North Star Hotel for my dinner when I got off the bus in Dublin. I got the impression that she thought that she would never see me again, thanked her and assured that I would be home on February 14th.

I was unable to forget what she said to me on that evening long ago so I designed and worked the mirror during the time that was allotted to handicraft during the course, and history repeated itself on July 3rd last as I found myself bidding the exact farewell to my eldest grandchild as he left to travel to Australia. I didn’t give him the mirror just paw-grease, but I have taken it out to re -affirm the reason that a four leafed clover, a horseshoe and forgetme-nots are included in this precious memento.

Requirements Time: a few hours. Cost about €10.

Expertise- beginner Requirements-14 HP1 Aida- 8.5cms x 8.5cms white.

1 Framecraft handbag mirror kit (A pretty suede pouch was provided with the kit) Anchor stranded cotton 2 strandsremnants or 1 skein in each of the following colours; Green no 267, blue no 0167, yellow no 0290, light green no 0281.

Anchor stranded cotton 1 strand-dark green no 1044, green no 267 and charcoal or black for horseshoe outline.

The horseshoe is stitched in 12 inch lengths of Tootal silver thread; a needle threader would be useful when working with this thread.

Tapestry needle size 24, scissors and a thimble.

Step1 Begin by folding the fabric in half both ways and mark the centre, count down to the bottom of motif and start stitching there.

Step 2 Work all cross stitch in 2 strands of the stranded cotton except for the horseshoe, which is worked in lengths of silver thread from the spool. The outlining and lettering is worked in one strand of the stranded cotton. Follow the chart and key when working stitches.

Step 3 Wash work in tepid suds and iron while damp.

Step 4 Place the mirror lid centrally over the work and use a pencil to draw around the lid, carefully cut along the circle outline and discard the waste fabric. Fix over the provided padding and push the lid in place centrally over the motif and mirror.

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