Local author and historian Mike Hackett launched his latest book about the town on Fri. night 22nd Oct. 2010 at the GAA Pavilion. This is Mike’s 10th book and by far his favourite work. Mike started his latest book last February and felt that there was some aspects of the town that needed to be covered and Sarsfield Terrace was one of them. Help from residents of the terrace, like Kay Cronin, Maurice Ahern, Ann Tomlin, Fr. Donal Hussey to name but a few, wrote pieces for his book which is a compilation of anecdotes from residents living and former residents of ‘The Terrace’, Cork Hill and Windmill Hill.

Click on video to watch the nostalgic 8 min movie clip of Mike Hackett’s book launch

The book is basically a social history of the area with many photographs of great interest. Mary Ann Smyth was asked to launch the book being the Queen of the terrace. Aine Neville O’Donoghue, Kathleen Quinn and Peter Lee provided the entertainment to the packed house. Proceeds from the book go to the Leukemia section of the Mercy Hospital, Cork
Mike, accompanied by his wife Mary and family, was in great form and at home for the book launch, while his brother Martin was MC for the evening. Canon Tom Browne, Mayor of Youghal Mary Linehan Foley, Mary Anne Smyth spoke to the capacity crowds who turned up to thank Mike personally on his his magnificent book on magnificent people.

Book available in most bookshops in town and in Quinn’s Shop Ardmore

Mike Hackett, author and historian, is no stranger to the people of Youghal and East Cork, and his books have brought acclaim from far and wide.   Known for his easy writing, his great knowledge of his book topics, and his love of all things Youghal his popularity was in evidence on Saturday night last, October 23rd, when his tenth book ‘Sars’, was officially launched in the wonderful facility that is the GAA Club Aras.   Between 300 and 400 people packed into the hall, all carrying ‘Sars’ under their arm, and all waiting expectantly for the official launch of the book, which honour was bestowed on the most senior citizen of Sarsfields Terrace, Mrs Mary Ann Smyth. Report: Denise FitzGerald | Photo: Michael Hussey www.youghalonline.com email: news@youghalonline.com

Martin Hackett, brother of Mike’s, introduced the various guests which included Canon Tom Browne, Cllr Mary Lenihan Foley, Mayor of Youghal, and Mary Ann Smyth.   The guests spoke eloquently about Mike and the Sars book, after which Mary Ann approached the podium to perform the launch.   But first, she regaled the audience with various stories and events from the 50s, 60s, 70s and 80s about the residents of Sarsfields Terrace,  What laughter and fun!   There were stories about nappies being brought in from the rain by neighbours when the owner was out, and the house in a mess!   Mention was made of ‘pinches of sugar’ being borrowed and returned;  a gentleman finishing off the alcohol which had been bought and put aside for the same gentleman’s wake;   racing pigeons belonging to eighteen different families in the Terrace who regularly flew to North of Ireland and back;  heavy top coats being put on beds to keep  them warm in winter time;  and the mammies doing the rounds of the houses at Christmas time where glasses of wine (sherry in those days) were imbibed in each house causing consternation when they were trying to make their way home!    Periwinkle picking was gone into in detail, and of course there were all those stories about the ’The Toppers’, ‘The  Bottomers’ and ‘The Browns in between!’.

Mary Ann went on to say that the most important thing was that when one neighbour was well of, then they all were;  and when one neighbour was finding the going tough, then the rest of the neighbours did too.   “Sharing was the lifeblood of these people in times which were more often hard than good, and none of the neighbours had anything more, or less, than the other.

Mike Hackett, to his eternal credit, took over from Mary Ann and, difficult though it was to follow that act, he thanked everyone for their encouragement, support and input to his latest publication.   He confirmed that there were at least twenty eight writers from Sarsfields Terrace and suurrnds who submitted stories to the book and this, he said, made the compiling of his book so much easier for him.

All monies raised from the sale of ‘Sars’ will be donated to the Leukaemia Section of Cork University Hospital, which has a special place in Mike’s heart.

So, Mike Hackett’s tenth book is now on sale and by purchasing this great, heartwarming, funny, factual and enjoyable read, you will also be contributing to a most worthy charity.

Someone once said that a good book on your shelf is a friend that turns its back on you, and remains a friend.  A good friend!   Just like the Stars of ‘Sars’.

Click here to watch the nostalgia 8 min movie clip made by Michael Hussey for www.youghalonline.com

Sunday, October 24th was the launch date for Pauline Neville Scott’s wonderful Art Exhibition which took place in the Mall Arts Centre at 2pm.   Pauline is probably best known for her lively sense of humour and wonderful bubbly personality,  Pauline, however, is also a highly talented artist and her amazing talents shone through in the beautiful paintings which were on exhibit.
Report: Denise FitzGerald Photo: Michael Hussey www.youghalonline.com

Another well known Youghal local is Christy Cooney, President of the GAA and Christy told the East Cork Journal that he was delighted to be asked by Pauline to launch her Exhibition.  He and his wife, Ann, arrived at the Town Hall well in advance of the 2pm launch time, to view the paintings and admire the colours, scenes and wonderful art work on display.

A very large crowd of people came along for the Exhibition, including Pauline’s large and extended family, and the atmosphere was one of celebration and enjoyment.   The ambience was helped by the delicious refreshments and wine which was served, and Pauline and her family, well known for their hospitality, were making sure that there was plenty for everyone.

Pianist, Kathleen Quinn, a niece of Pauline‘s, played music beautifully in the background and, after the official launch, another member of the very talented Neville family, Áine, Soprano, sang two arrangements accompanied by Kathleen.

Pauline‘s sisters told the East Cork Journal that they were very proud of Pauline and delighted with the success of the Art Exhibition, which was open for two days only.

Already people are looking forward to the next Exhibition so it looks like Pauline will be kept very busy for the foreseeable future.  We wish her every success…

Click on image to start slideshow of the event. Photo: Michael Hussey www.youghalonline.com

Local actress Ruth Hayes stars in the psychological horror film ” Th3 Room” as part of the MURPHY’S Little Big Nights Out this Friday night, October 29th 2010. Ruth has appeared in several films during her career and is also starring in the Youghal Theatre Companies production of ” The Playboy of the Western World” at the Walter Raleigh Hotel, Youghal, on Tuesday 2nd to Saturday 6th November 2010. Ruth runs the Chatterbox Dance Studio in Youghal, which provides an outlet for young people to express themselves through the medium of dance in a fun and friendly environment.

This short film was directed by Sean Breathnach. It was shot on location in Cork city. Th3 Room is a psychological horror whose physical narrative is as potent as the dialogue itself. With a cast of just one (Ruth Hayes) the suspense builds as her character Jean receives a very strange email from a friend. When she clicks on the link it seems to be just a static shot of an empty room but on closer inspection all is not what it appears to be! With an eerie soundtrack and chilling effects Th3 Room is sure to have viewers on the edge of their seats!

One big, big screen and lots of big, big screams, as MURPHY’S Little Big Nights Out present the ultimate Halloween horror-fest in the rain-proof, heated beer garden of The Flying Enterprise on South Gate Bridge on Friday October 29th. The bravest MURPHY’S faithful are invited to enjoy a fun and spook-filled Halloween in the plush surrounds of The Flying Enterprise, for an outdoor screening of one of the funniest zombie movies of all time, in celebration of the witching weekend! Kick back with your mates, amid ghostly lights and ghoulish candles, sink your teeth into some tasty treats from the legendary Flying Enterprise BBQ and wash it all down with a cool, creamy pints of MURPHY’S, the official pint of us!

And in keeping with the best of Cork theme that runs through all the MURPHY’S Little Big Nights Out events, the main picture show will be preceded by a selection of brilliant Cork horror shorts: “I Remember” written and directed by Dan O’Connell, “Th3 Room” by Sean Breathnach, “The Sign”, written by Paddy O’Shea, “He Dies At The End” by Damien Mc Carthy and the final short, “The Ottoman Empire” by James Phelan.
For those MURPHY’S fans who choose to arrive all ‘ghouled’ up the best Halloween costumes will be in with a chance of winning tickets to the much anticipated MURPHY’S Big Night Out, which takes place at Cork Opera House on December 4th

Youghal Arts Network will hold a fancy dress Halloween fun fundraiser at the Marine Bar, Youghal, this Saturday night, October 30th. in aid of the local South Abbey National School. The fun begins at 9pm and there will be special prizes for best male and female costumes.

The Youghal Arts Network are a very active group of people who, among other things, organise fund raising events to help voluntary clubs, organisations, groups, schools etc., in the town of Youghal who are in need of financial help.
South Abbey National School is a very old building which is school to as many children as it can possibly hold.   It is a proud school with a long history in the town. Originally a Church, the School was set up in the premises in 1886. Thus, there are massive expenses involved in keeping this beautiful building maintained and suitable for the children of the school.

Halloween Fancy Dress Party – The Marine Bar Youghal 2009
Click on video below to see last year’s Halloween Party

“ANÚNA is legitimate folklore that weaves religious and secular threads into an enchanting sonic tapestry” – Billboard

Internationally acclaimed choral ensemble Anúna will visit Youghal on November 5th this year, bringing their unique choral voice to Co. Cork.

One of the most quintessentially Irish acts on the current musical scene, Anúna perform material spanning a thousand years of history.   Their unique performance style and ethereal, haunting music have garnered critical acclaim and  and an enormous international following over the last two decades.

Founded by Dublin composer Michael McGlynn in 1987, Anúna’s name derives from the collective term for the three ancient types of Irish music, Suantraí (lullaby), Geantraí (happy song) and Goltraí (lament). One of the choir’s stated aims is to explore and redefine Irish choral music from ancient times through to the present.  Most of their material is written or arranged for the group by McGlynn, and includes reconstructions of early and medieval Irish music.

Anúna have a very diverse international audience, developed through seventeen years of touring and they slip easily between Classical music and Irish/World music genres.

In addition to their performance in Youghal, Anúna will also give a workshop for singers, on Saturday 6th November at the Mall Arts Centre.  The workshop is aimed at local singers and choir members, and will focus on the physicality of singing, with participants learning tips and new techniques on voice production, use of the face, posture, voice projection, confidence and many other aspects. These workshops are offered free of charge to choirs and individual singers on a first come basis. Booking is essential. To make a booking please contact Sinead Collins at the Cork County Council Arts Office  Email sinead.collons@corkcoco.ie Tel. 021 4346210

Anuna’s visit to Youghal is kindly supported by an Arts Council Touring Award.

For more info on both the concert and the workshop, please contact Oona Colin at the Mall Arts Centre on +353 (0)83 360 6507  or email themallartscentre@gmail.com

Artist info:   www.anuna.ie

Listings info:

Friday 5 November:

Venue:  St Mary’s Collegiate Church, Youghal, Co Cork, 8pm concert

Ticket prices: €15

Booking Tel: (0)83 360 6507

Promoted by:  The Mall Arts Centre in collaboration with Cork County Council Arts Office

Saturday 6 November:

Venue:  The Mall Arts Centre, Youghal 11am – 2pm workshop

Booking Tel: Email sinead.collons@corkcoco.ie Tel. 021 4346210

–
Oona Colin
Facilities Coordinator
The Mall Arts Centre/St. Mary’s Collegiate Church
Tel: 083 360 6507

The meeting was preceded by a brief presentation from Cork County Council Traffic Engineer Eileen Coleman on the Traffic Management Plan for Ashe Street, DeValera Street, Emmet Place and Church Street. Some Plan details are relayed elsewhere in this issue. The council will discuss the Plan at a special meeting in November.

The meeting proper commenced with each member welcoming Cllr Tommy O’Connell to the chamber. The Labour representative was co-opted to replace former councillor Donie Daly, who resigned, controversially, last July due to Tuesday morning work commitments and the council’s decisions not to revert to Monday night meetings.

Rising to his feet, Cllr O’Connell acknowledged the welcomes and declared his intention to work “positively and productively” for the townspeople in what he hoped would be “affable” circumstances. “But unfortunately,” he added ominously, “I can’t let the occasion go without saying why I am here.” He was there “because Cllr Donie Daly was forced to resign,” he explained, setting the tone for the five-minute period of tongue-biting restraint that was to follow.

Vendetta

Venting his displeasure at the manner of his predecessor’s departure, Cllr O’Connell labeled it “disgraceful, petty, bloody-minded and a gross aversion of local democracy. With the honourable exception of three members (meaning Cllrs Murray, Beecher and Revins),” he proceeded, “you took the voice of 380 people out of this chamber and I sincerely hope the people of Youghal will not forget it.” Composed and calculating, the councillor accused two (unspecified) members of bringing “a personal vendetta into the chamber” by way of persuading “other councilors to vote against Monday night meetings.”

Diverging somewhat, Cllr O’Connell recalled his own council resignation (to emigrate) 25 years previous and that, contrary to the accepted practice of co-opting a fellow party member, Fianna Fail had “grabbed” his seat, “undemocratically and, in my book, illegally.” It was a practice, he said, that had been rampantly endorsed by Fianna Fail nationwide, until a coalition government subsequently corrected it.

Concluding his address, Cllr O’Connell informed his audience that, “some of you may think you are democrats but with the honourable exception of three, I’m afraid you are not. You are petty, small-minded people that grabbed a seat,” he insisted. Nonetheless, he was willing to work “constructively and productively,” with the council for the betterment of the town, he volunteered.

Responses

That the chamber’s response was relatively mild probably reflected a residual war-weariness since the summer exchanges that had followed Cllr Daly’s departure. Mayor Mary Linehan Foley said she had “moved on” and that the council was “focused on the future and not on the past.” She argued that the council was “so democratic” it had convened “on numerous occasions” to vote on meeting times and that neither she nor her colleagues were responsible for one councillor’s absence from any meeting. The mayor said there were a lot of other voters to represent alongside Cllr Daly’s supporters and deemed it lucky the council had a Labour representative to that end, although party politics didn’t enter into council business, she claimed. “I feel aggrieved by your comments and I hope your feelings stay outside the chamber,” she concluded.

Cllr Eoin Coyne echoed the mayor’s views and said the occurrences of 25 years past were irrelevant. “It is completely off the wall to accuse us of being undemocratic,” he stated, as “a democratic vote was taken in the chamber.” He hoped there would be nine councilors working in unison from there on and he wouldn’t waste his time arguing.

Cllr Liam Burke was “saddened” by Cllr O’Connell’s sentiments and felt there was no room for “the adversarial, time-warped politics” of the past. “This chamber is characterised by a constructive and very positive approach to its business and towards improving the town,” he insisted. Cllr Burke then proposed the council proceed with the day’s agenda and the matter ended.

Road resurfacing

Following the town clerk’s report, there was some discussion on Cork County Council’s funding application to the Dept of the Environment for resurfacing work on the North and South Main Streets (R634). Town Manager Patricia Power said it was “critical” that the work be carried out prior to the main drainage scheme to give the town good main street surfaces to balance the inevitable deterioration of those in the areas to be disrupted by the scheme. The application is based on several factors, including tourism and business, she said.

The town clerk clarified to Cllr Michelle Hennessy that the application refers to resurfacing work commencing in early 2011 and running from Windmill Hill to Cork Hill at an approximate cost of €160,000. She was assured that disability spaces would be restored and Mr. Ryan suggested that any new proposals would be considered subject to compliance with road regulations. Similar circumstances applied to the back street in the wake of the main drainage scheme. Mr. Ryan said that scheme –now anticipated for early 2012 and costing approximately €28m- awaited 70% government funding. The tendering documents are presently awaiting approval from the Dept of Environment, he added.

Cllr Barbara Murray asked whether Youghal Town Council tenants could be accommodated (literally) if they wished to transfer to one of 142 social houses in a Killeagh/Ladysbridge scheme that is being promoted. Mr. Ryan replied that all possibilities would be considered individually in tandem with Cork County Council’s approval.

Regarding the resurfacing of the main streets, Cllr Murray asked whether the road would be raised level to the “deplorable” footpaths. The town clerk said everything depended on the level of funding and resources made available. Meanwhile it was important to acquire funding for 2011 because the volume of traffic, including diversions, through the town during the drainage scheme project would render it impossible to do footpath reconstruction in 2012.

Cllr Michael Beecher said previous experience suggested the resurfacing might be dug up again. Mr. Ryan said broadband installation had mostly caused this. He believed there would always be some road openings but they depended on the rate of developments, which were now, unfortunately, low. He explained that Cork Hill corner, alone of the main street, would eventually be dug up as part of the main drainage scheme. The town manager added that the county council would seek that utility companies such as eircom, ESB, etc conduct upcoming works prior to the scheme.

Cllr Murray then asked whether the town council could avid reliance on private companies by installing its own underground ducting on the main streets to contain and conceal utility wiring, in compliance with the town regenerating plan. The town clerk said most of the ducting would occur under footpaths but there were some areas of roadway where her proposal deserved consideration. Cllr Burke supported her idea, citing a report from the Tidy Town’s adjudicators also referring to the benefit of burying wires.

Votes of Congratulations:

Mayor Linehan Foley congratulated Aura Leisure Centre on recently winning a national award for Safety in the Service sector. She also congratulated Youghal Tidy Towns (and council workers) on Youghal winning their section in the Cork County Council Anti-Litter Challenge with 272 points. The mayor further paid tribute to the Youghal u-18 camogie team on winning the County final. It was agreed that all would join the list of achievers to be recognised at the new bi-annual awards ceremonies, the first of which will occur at Christmas.

Town Foreman’s Report:

Cllr Burke asked that CIE be informed that the protected structure that is their old railway signal box is in desperate disrepair. He asked the manager for an update on the Youghal Retail Strategy, which was later forthcoming (see elsewhere in this issue). Cllr Burke told town engineer Paul Murray that the road markings installed following surfacing at the junction of Kilcoran Rd and Seafield Rd were different to what had prevailed there previously, leading to confusion and near-accidents. Mr. Murray said the roads marking contractor had altered the layout as cars coming up from the hill and turning right didn’t have enough room on the island to stop and allow passage for a car coming down. He said it was being monitored but he would have more road markings installed to forewarn motorists coming down.

Illegal dumping

Cllr Coyne said weeds needed removing on the North Main Street footpaths. He noted that a lot of domestic waste was still being dumped and learned that the mobile CCTV cameras were due to return. Cllr Coyne asked that more pooper scooper bins be provided.

Cllr O’Connell condemned illegal dumping, which was “rampant” and often unseen in outlying areas. However he laid much of the cause on landfill charges in a time of recession. He didn’t know the ultimate answer but believed identifying culprits by rifling through their rubbish had limitations. He felt addressing the cause was preferable to prosecution, which could itself be costly. He wondered if free dumping might resolve the problem. The mayor hoped that court action in lieu of CCTV evidence would prove a strong deterrent and said that nowadays one had to pay for rubbish disposal. Recycling helped to reduce the costs but she was critical of the €3 entrance to the landfill’s ‘free’ recycling facility. Cllr Hennessy said car owners were largely responsible for illegal dumping and that if people could afford to run a car they could afford to pay for waste disposal. It was unfair on council workers and she strongly supported CCTV to counteract illegal bin and fly dumping.

Cllr Beecher supported Cllr Henenssy’s views and felt €3 was a reasonable fee. He observed that dumping in bins decreased when CCTV arrived but increased in the countryside and advocated higher fines. Cllr Coyne said there were some free recycling facilities, such as Tesco’s. Cllr Sandra McLennan said civic amenity sites cost “a fortune” to run and therefore charges were necessary and would probably increase following the next budget.

Installations, weeds, butts and flower boxes

Cllr Murray asked if Youghal Town Council ever considered replacing ‘pumped insulation’ in attics with ‘rolled out insulation’. She had thought the pumped version was more applicable to concrete blocks and it was inhibiting homeowners’ access to wiring, etc. The town clerk said the council normally employed rolled out insulation and that Cllr Murray was referring to one particular scheme whereby the architect’s department was involved in a package that entailed both installing insulation and upgrading heating systems.

Cllr Murray echoed Cllr Coyne’s sentiments on footpath weds and pooper bins. She then described an initiative in England called ‘Stub it Out’ whereby a tobacco company provided free, insulated (not pumped presumably!) pouches for the disposal of cigarette butts. She suggested the council write to the company requesting a supply. (It’s unclear whether the council might have to order several hundred fags simultaneously mind, but with Christmas coming, why not?!). The councillor also asked that a bin be provided outside Pobalscoil and was told it was a County Council issue.

Cllr Hennessy asked whether there had been any response to last month’s request to Cork County Council to clean up the dereliction style appearance of its North Main Street premises (close to two Chinese restaurants) that has been earmarked as the town library some day. The town engineer said the county council’s library department was soon to remedy it. “If not, maybe we could put a derelict site notice on it,” replied Cllr Hennessy.

Mayor Linehan Foley thanked the council workers for the eventual installation of flower boxes and bollards on the footpaths at Dr. Kennedy’s Place. She said that “lives had been saved” by the thus preventing vehicles from mounting the pavement. Cllr Sammy Revins said some people were far from happy and would have preferred widening the road.

Cllr McLellan said the boxes and bollards had unfortunately brought more parking at Fitzgerald’s Terrace, resulting in a resident who has long sought a yellow box, being locked into his home and consequently even missing medical appointments. “The yellow box is urgent and I’d like to see it before the next meeting!” she stressed. Mr. Ryan said there was a procedure to follow, including awaiting road liners, but that the traffic warden to visit the area meantime.

Cork County Council Items:

Town Engineer Paul Murray delivered the following information: work had been conducted at the rifle range on foot of a Dangerous Structure notice; road overlays at Ballyclamsey were imminent; a new valve had been fitted in the outfall pipe at the front strand and the situation would be monitored for some months; the Youghal reservoir was being cleaned out; work on replacing filter sand on Filter 4 at Boola waterworks was now due to commence.

Cllr Murray asked if an extension to the front strand outfall pipe remained part of the main drainage scheme as had been agreed. The engineer said if the valve didn’t work then an extension would be sought. She suspected the valve –like its predecessors- would fail and. given the time it took to process, she urged an application for an offshore license be made soon. The councillor asked that county council areas be included in the CCTV program against illegal dumping. She also wanted a raised and buckled metal grid on the footpath at the League of the Cross rectified and requested that a proposed footpath from Aura to Summerfield Cross be at least imposed as a plan pending funding becoming available.

More landfill odours

Cllr Beecher complained of a major pothole in Ballyclamsey. He then castigated “the odour from the landfill,” which was affecting both the town and nearby county Waterford. He was asthmatic and it had badly affected him as well as others and he felt a private company would have been fined long ago. He would be contacting the EPA. Cllr McLellan said it seemed to be “worse on Sundays.”

The town clerk replied that it was an issue for the county council, to whom he had already written and advocated it be raised at that level. The mayor observed that the council could not be 100% sure the landfill was responsible for the odours in the first place.

Cllr Sammy Revins asked that double yellow lines be provided at Mistletoe Grove when the liners return. He wanted a yellow box to be painted at the rear of Devon View, especially as people are affected by nearby school painting. Mr. Ryan said the appropriate time to do so would be following the main drainage scheme, wherein Strand Street would be one of the first sections treated. “Have you a date for that?  We’ve been waiting 14 years for the drainage scheme,” replied the councillor.

Footpath study

Cllr McLellan had received complaints about the difficulties facing wheelchair users traversing Youghal’s footpath She asked whether the engineer could conduct a survey prior to compiling a works program which could be conducted when and as funding became available. The engineer said plans were already drawn up for works on the back street footpaths shortly. “That’s good but there are lots of other footpaths and we need a program,” insisted Cllr McLellan. The town clerk felt that Youghal was “way down the list” when it came to Cork County Council funding and urged that the two county councillors and the mayor raise the issue at area road meetings so that a budget could be acquired to meet the priority listing. Cllr O’Connell supported Cllr McLellan’s initiative.

Cllr Burke asked that the junction of Strand Street/South Abbey footpaths which he had persistently raised (pardon the pun) be included in the back street project. “These are some of the worse pathways anywhere and are part of the main tourist walkways,” he advised.

Mayor’s Business:

This consisted of just one quote –from Munster Joinery, Ballyedesmond- being opened for a contract to conduct window and door replacements at premises in Windmill Hill. Three quotations had been sought and Cllr O’Connell suggested it was unusual that only one company had responded. “There are a number of window and door companies teetering on the brink,” informed the town clerk.

Report by Mayor Linehan Foley on the Tidy Towns Task Force:

The mayor said the Tidy Towns Committee Chairman Ned Brennan was unable to address the council on the day as had been arranged but would attend next month’s meeting, at which he would report on past present and future agenda.  Mr. Ryan noted that Youghal had won a bronze medal –for 4th place- in its national section in this year’s Tidy Towns competition, coming just eight pints behind the winner (Dungarvan).

Budget Sub Committee Meeting:

It was agreed to hold this meeting on Tuesday morning November 2nd and also to discuss traffic management that morning also.

Correspondence:

Following a letter from the National Women’s Council of Ireland, the council pledged unanimous support for the Justice for the Magdalene Campaign (JMC). In striving for an apology and redress for the abuse and injustice inflicted on them by religious orders the campaigners were recently denied a meeting by CORI (The Conference of Religious of Ireland). A similar response has been proffered by each of four religious orders implicated – the Good Shepherd Sisters, Our Lady of Charity, the Sisters of Mercy and the Sisters of Charity. Minister for Justice Dermot Ahern has also rejected appeals for justice though at least he’s unlikely to be a minister after the next election. The town council’s written support will be added to that of other local authorities for forwarding to the minister responsible for local government, John Gormley.

Any Other Business:

Cllr Murray asked for an update on the funding application to Failte Ireland regarding the co-boardwalk at the Claycastle. The town clerk said they would be notified after that body’s October board meeting. “We’ve done absolutely all we were asked to do,” he added. Cllr Murray asked that some pressure be placed on Cork County Council to conduct a site assessment on their section of the project, which is intended to link as far as Redbarn. There will be issues with coastal erosion, etc,” she explained.

Cllr Revins inquired as to the anticipated independent diving rocks report. It’s due, he was told.

Youghal Foroige Youth Centre, including youth café, Nagle House Youth Club and Garda Diversion Project, undertook their third beach clean of the year last Saturday (October 23rd 2010).

Sixteen members filled a similar amount of bags with the detritus from Green Hole and the Mall beaches across two hours from 10 a.m. Cork County Council provided the bags and picking equipment and transported the rubbish to the Youghal landfill. The centre has previously cleared rubbish from the Front Strand and Claycastle-Redbarn.

Previous excursions have produced a plethora of beer cans, bottles, butter boxes and -at the Rifle Range- discarded tents and sleeping bags! This time plastic straw and plastic drink container tops which usually accommodate them were much in evidence, as were one shopping trolley -looking like it left Pasley’s in 1978- and other segments of rusted metal. There were also a large number of white syringes collected, thankfully without needles and possibly used for insulin injections or for veterinary purposes. It is to be hoped so anyway. The group wish to thank Youghal Lifeboat station for the very welcome tea and refreshments thereafter.

The prolonged procedure known as the Traffic Management Plan for Ashe Street, Church Street & De Valera Street moves a step closer when the Town Council discusses issue following the conclusion of the public consultation at a special meeting on November 2nd. Prior to October’s town council meeting Eileen Coleman, Traffic Management Engineer with Cork County Council updated the chamber on the Draft Proposals.

The engineer’s report first reiterated that the plan’s objective is “to improve amenity and safety on Ashe Street, Emmet Place, De Valera Street and Church Street, while maintaining access to services and residences.” Inherent in this, it intendeds to:  a) remove cut-through traffic, allowing access for residents and to services but reducing non-local traffic; b) preserve the road pavement at Church Street; c) enhance pedestrian environment in respect of tourism; d) ensure Church Street closure does no impact negatively on other areas; e) ensure a better quality of life for all local residents.
Since Church Street closed, De Valera Street has experienced extra traffic as drivers access the main street travelling eastwards (towards Waterford).
What is proposed:
The draft proposals are: i) Church Street local access only and no through traffic; ii) Ashe Street two-way;  iii) De Valera Street one-way from Main Street to Ashe Street. It is unclear whether this latter proposal may be a misrepresentation as it would entail traffic exiting De Valera Street car park having to turn left and detour through Windmill Hill to access South Main Street. It perhaps is intended that De Valera Street traffic is two way the 50 metres from the main street to the car park and one-way thereafter. On the other hand, the report does cite a potential disadvantage as being ‘a slight additional journey time for vehicles travelling eastwards.’

Gains:
Meanwhile the anticipated gains are: i) less through traffic for locals; ii) improved pedestrian environment due to less traffic; iii) enhanced environment in the historic core and associated preservation of road infrastructure; iv) removal of cut-through traffic.
In regards to funerals, it is being considered that adjustable bollards maybe installed on Church Street to allow corteges to access North Main Street via that route.
Submissions received:
The public consultation process elicited the following submissions: i) An Garda Siochana content, assuming adequate signage erected; ii) Cal Flavin: too much traffic using Windmill Hill and increased dual traffic on Ashe Street, along with increased traffic on North Main Street. Supports closing Chapel Lane and recommends exit from Priory Court be made safe;  iii) De Valera Street Residents Committee: Broadly welcomes but consultation with regard to possible traffic calming measures and a walkway on a trial basis at first; iv) David & Mae Clark, Quarry Road –also on behalf of their parents: believes a u-turn area be provided in the interests of safety. Foresees increased traffic eastwards on Ashe Street. Concerned about traffic conflict after church services. Recommends restricting Ashe Street  to one-way from Cross Lane to Windmill Hill; v) Caroline Newell, Coastguard Station: Object sot proposals. Disfavours removal of cut-through. Says traffic can access Ashe Street through three points but only exit from one. Concerned about Windmill Hill/South Main Street junction. Believes Ashe Street will be no go area at mass time and has concerns about the junction exiting Priory Court car park and accessing the doctor’s office; vi) Oliver JJ Broderick,Ashe Street welcomes the proposals but observes that cars using Church Street will have to turn to access Windmill Hill. Sees increased traffic using narrow sections of Ashe Street and difficulties for cars due to parking on Emmet Street. Proposes making Ashe Street one-way towards Windmill Hill.

Responding to the submissions:
The report proceeds that, 1) Access to the church during ceremonies would be met by limited car parking on Ashe Street and Emmet Place along with Priory Court car park. Also, locals may access the church from De Valera Street; 2) A turning point could be provided on Emmet Place; 3) Signage and road marking are proposed; 4) Windmill Hill has sufficient capacity to accommodate increased traffic  and is more appropriate than narrow Ashe Street. 4) There are proposed changes for accessing Priory Court car park. 5) Traffic calming measures are not presently proposed but the measures would result in reduced traffic which, being local, will not be concerned with getting from A to B as fast as possible. 6) Ashe Street will have three access and one exit points but one of the plan’s objectives is to remove the cut-through traffic, with motorists using the main street primarily.
Finally:
Next month’s special meeting will enable the councillors to discuss the draft proposals and make amendments if they so wish. The proposals will then be brought before the council’s November meeting proper a week later where a vote will be taken whether to adopt them as the finished Plan or otherwise.

To kick off the winter season and keep everyone happy as the nights draw in, Brideview Drama Tallow is very proud to announce its forthcoming attractions:

In the middle of November we have our musical extravaganza, ‘The Travelling Soldier’. With a great cast and a story designed and directed by Jack Aherne, this excellent show of song, dance and pop sees the return of many of the area’s teenage singing and dancing talents, including Jade Maguire, Emily Aherne, Aisling and Emma Murphy, Damian Pollard, Abbie O’Shea and Jennifer Daly. To guarantee lots of entertainment, Jack has scoured the district, so we also welcome Dick O’Mahony, Colm Ahern, Lorna Cullen, Milo Ahern, Amy Feeney, Leah O’Shea and Siobhan Ahern.

The Travelling Soldier is based on the song of the same name by The Dixie Chicks, and is all about the heart-warming romance that develops when a young soldier asks a waitress in a café to write to him while he’s away on UN duty.

With dance choreography by Ann Trimble, musical arrangements by Mairead Cullinane, sound by Matthew Kavanagh and stage management by Judy Burton helped by Paul Ryan, this is a wonderful show full of big dance numbers, romantic moments, chorus-lines and great solo singing. It’s guaranteed to get your feet tapping, keep your lips humming and leave the rest of you thoroughly entertained.

The Travelling Soldier is at Tallow Community Centre, 8.15PM, November 11, 12 and 13 November, Thursday to Saturday, and suitable for everyone. We’ll let you know about booking arrangements.

Then, on the last weekend of November and first weekend of December we offer a very funny evening of comedy. Directed by Tomás Roche, the humour comes fast and furious in ‘And The Winner Is…’ by Mitch Albom. Better known as the author of the fabulously popular worldwide bestseller, Tuesdays With Morrie, Mitch Albom’s play is a very entertaining take on fame and fortune and the Irish at the Oscar’s in Hollywood!

Starring all the usual comedy suspects in Brideview Drama, the play also features (and welcomes) two new and very good actors, Connor Goulding of Tallow and Eileen McCarthy of Knockanore.

“And The Winner Is …” is on 8.15PM, Tallow Community Centre, Friday & Saturday 26-27 November, then Friday & Saturday 3-4 December. As always, tickets will be available at the door, with lots of complimentary refreshments for all at interval.

Like to interview the directors? Contact Jack Aherne (087 958 2314) or Tomás Roche (087 297 3071)

Images attached:

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In the swing! Abbie O’Shea, Aisling Murphy and Jennifer Daly rehearsing Brideview Drama’s Musical, ‘Vienna’

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Rehearsing ‘And the winner is…’ Standing: Connor Goulding, John Roche, Tomás Roche (Director). Sitting: Eileen McCarthy, John Baldwin, Patrick Smith & Sarah Allen

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for all enquiries, please contact
James Hyde
Secretary (for 2010/11)
Brideview Drama, Tallow
Co Waterford, Ireland