On Sunday the first  day of May, the Irish charity Féileacáin (Stillbirth and Neonatal Death Association of Ireland) are holding a walk to remember, from the market square in Youghal at 3pm. This 2km walk is to commemorate International Babylost Mothers Day and remember all babies who have died. Starting at the market square and finishing at the Beach at the front strand with a short ceremony and releasing balloons with messages and names attached in memory of babies who have died .

Féileacáin is a nonprofit organisation that aims to provide support to those affected by the death of a baby during pregnancy or shortly after. The organisation was formed in 2009 and officially launched in October 2010 by a group of seven bereaved parents; Brain and Liz Roche , Mairie Cregan, Helen Hayes, Jacinta Murphy, Jessie Castle and Mary Lane. Since then they have done amazing work and have come so far in such a short time. Féileacáin has gone from strength to strength in their effort to offer hope and support to others.

The death of a baby is one of the most devastating experiences that anyone can go through. While you’re pregnant you have so much hope, you plan for your baby and for yourself as you approach your role as Mother or Father, you have so many hopes and dreams for the life growing inside you. The initial shock and resulting grief can be completely overwhelming for the parents and their close family. It is an emotional journey that will forever affect every aspect of their lives. Maybe someone you know has experienced stillbirth or neonatal death and you didn’t know what to say to them or how to support them. All to often the confusion or fear of making an inappropriate comment paralyse  people, they don’t know what to say so they avoid the grieving parents. Their silence can hurt, the grieving parents need their baby’s existence to have made a mark, they have buried their baby not their existence. These beautiful babies came into their parents lives for short brief moments but will be forever in their hearts. Féilecáin know how precious each and every life is and how every baby’s life should be celebrated and recognized. They also know how hard this experience is as they have all gone through the same heartbreaking experience. This is why Féilecáin volunteer their time to provide national ongoing support to those who need it through emails and phone calls. They also have started setting up local support groups, so far they have set up support meetings in Cork and Galway and are hoping to soon expand these to Tralee, Waterford and Kilkenny and hopefully at some stage they will become nationwide. Féileacáin are hoping to run training courses in Vienna Woods Hotel in July for anyone in Cork who would like to become a befriender volunteer and help facilitate a support group. Féileacáin are also working in setting up training for midwives and health professional, as to how parents are told and supported in hospitals.

Féileacáin also recognize that families who have lost babies in the past may not have had the help, support or opportunity to mourn and come to terms with the death of their precious child . Some families didn’t even know where their children were buried and some may not have been able to see or hold their child, as health professionals believed they were protecting the mothers and lessening her grief by doing so. Thankfully things have changed over the years, but that doesn’t mean we can’t continue to change and improve. Féileacáin have already helped Mothers and families who have lost their babies long ago to locate where their baby was buried if they were never given this information and to talk to someone who understands the trauma of their loss .

It is so important to many parents to have memories of the short time they have had with their babies. This is why Féileacáin have created the Remembering Memory box to give comfort to parents to look and hold reminders of their precious babies. These memory boxes have been recently released in maternity hospitals in Cork and Galway and will hopefully be launched very soon in many other maternity hospitals throughout Ireland . The boxes included beautiful hand knitted blankets, for parents to wrap or lay their baby in. It also includes a handmade card, a small box for a lock of the babies hair or their identification bracelet, and also two small teddies,  which some parents like to swap before the burial and give their child the teddy they kept close to them and they have the teddy that was kept close to their baby. In every Remembering Memory box is also a single use camera for parents to take photographs of their baby. These cameras can also be used by older siblings so they can take photos and be a part of making memories of their little brother or sister. There are also support leaflets to let parents know they are not alone and leaflets with suggestions on how to take photographs at this time of great sorrow and shock.

Féileacáin get support from many wonderful people, organisations and companies. Many knitting groups have donated time and effort into making beautiful blankets for the memory boxes. With approximately 11 babies per week die in Ireland  , a constant supply of knitted blankets is needed. Féileacáin can supply the wool and buttons for people who are willing to volunteer their time and skills to make the blankets and appreciate every single one. So if you are a member of a knitting group or you just knit on your own, you can get involved in knitting blankets. Now I Lay Me Down To Sleep (NIMLDTS)  is a wonderful organisation who work along side Féileacáin , who provide (at the parents request) volunteer professional photographer to come and take remembrance photography. Parents are provided with a sensitive portrait session and are provided with a free CD of sensitively retouched images , which serve as an important step in the families healing process by honoring their babies existence.  Féileacáin are providing the training and education to the NILMDTS photographers who volunteer in this amazing service to families facing the untimely death of their child.. With their next training day being held in Dublin on the 3rd May. In Cork at present Féileacáin has three photographers volunteering their time to this incredible service with 10 photographers nationwide , and are hoping over time they will have at least two photographers volunteering in every maternity hospital nationwide. Companies such as Precious Prints , Silverhaven Jewelery and Yewcrafts offer a range of beautiful items designed to provide parents with a choice of beautiful keepsakes. These keepsakes are important to preserve the child’s memory , from a range of jewelery and glass keepsakes with the babies name, birthday, hand or footprints engraved within the keepsake which will be treasured by the parents and family forever. These companies also donate 10% of the retail price back to Féileacáin once Féileacáin is mentioned when ordering.

Féileacáin is extremely grateful to all those who have already helped support their charity, from the people who knit blankets to those who hold fundraisers such as coffee mornings, handbag and make-up parties, dart tournaments to those running and walking in mini marathons. Thank you to the many people who donate money or sponser a Memory box and especially those who just spread the word and information about the charity. Stillbirth and neonatal death is sadly happening everyday and Féileacáin are doing fantastic work to ensure every parent who has to face such tragedy doesn’t feel alone. The memory boxes that are now in  CUMH will ensure that parents will have memories and mementos of their precious child forever. Hopefully soon these boxes will be in all maternity hospitals throughout Ireland. You can donate money to the charity via their facebook page or their website. A memory box costs just €20 you can sponsor a box through the shop on Féileacáin’s web site.
Please come along on May 1st and show your support and spread the word on the amazing work this charity is doing.

Contact :
Helpline 085 2496464
Email info@feileacain.ie
Website: www.feileacain.ie or check out the Féileacáin
Charity number CHY 19635

Youghal Ladies Footballers show tremendous heart

THE Youghal Ladies Footballers were in action last weekend at Magners Hill where the opposition were Ballyphehane from Cork City.

The City South Siders were the better side, but that is what is to be expected considering that the Youghal Ladies Footballers are only in their first year and already they are showing great promise.

The selectors must be praised for the hard work and the long hours that they are putting into the teams and fair play to all the supporters who cheered on the girls last Sunday evening.

Youghal had three great scores on the night, the Captain Deidre Cronin raising two white flags from play and a great score from Aoife O’Siochru which was nearly a goal.

Sinead Swayne came close on a couple of occasions and the defending by Faye O’Brien, Jenna White and in particular Jenny Barry was excellent.

All the players must be congratulated for their efforts on the night and the performance of Leah Broderick was outstanding.

All in all there is fantastic potential talent within the ranks of the Youghal Ladies Footballers and a great determination and it takes a few years for a team to establish themselves and with the people in place and the honesty and the determination of the Ladies playing it will be no time at all when the Youghal Girls will be making their mark in their Division.

Youghal Ladies Football Club would like to thank to Alison O’Connor of Youghal Pharmacy who kindly donated two complete First Aid Bags to our Junior & Juvenile teams for the coming season.

This gesture is very much appreciated by the Club and helps us greatly as an essential piece of kit has now been secured. Youghal Ladies Football Club would to wish Alison and all her staff all the best for 2011

Youghal Ladies Team: Serena Kenny; Mary Fox, Susan Cronin; Jenna White, Jenny Barry, Faye O’Brien; Kellie Ford, Deidre Cronin (Cpt) Ashling Hennessy, Aoife Butler, Leah Broderick; Sinead Swayne, Lorraine O’Keefe.

Second Half Subs: Aoife O’Siochru and Alice Barry.

Referee: Arthur O’Leary (Carrigtwohill)

 

Club Lotto

Youghal GAA Club cannot say it often enough, THANK YOU for your continued support for the Clubs Lotto Draw. The draw takes place every Monday night and as of Monday the 11th of April the Jackpot of €4,110 was not won. The numbers for Monday the 11th of April were 12, 22, 28, 30. €200 shared by Maureen Tracey, Shirley Kelly, Mary & Joe Cunningham. Sellers Prize was won by JD’s Bar. The Jackpot for Monday the 18th of April is €4,370. Go raibh maith agat as do thacaiocht.

Frank O’Brien

Youghal GAA Club would like to extend our sympathies with the family of Frank O’Brien, who recently passed away. Frank was a member of the Youghal Minor side that won the East Cork and Cork County Hurling Championship in 1944, he was a great friend to many here at Youghal GAA Club, in particular the late Paddy Cooney and the President of the GAA Christy Cooney.

He was a regular visitor to the town of Youghal and had a great passion for Greyhound Racing, winning the Irish Laurels with Round Tower Rose at the old Cork Greyhound Stadium and also winning the Tipperary Cup with Round Tower Bill.

People like Frank don’t come along every day. He was a fantastic friend to the Association and a winning County Junior Hurler with Castlemartyr.

A native of Cloyne and a former Fás employee, Frank will be missed by many near and far and Youghal GAA Club would like to make it known that Frank was a treasured friend of the club and a terrific servant to Gaelic Games. May he rest in peace.

Torthaí — ”45”

Máirt 12ú Aibreán 2011

Céad Áit:                          Assumpta/John
Dara Áit:                           Mossie/Richie
Tríú Áit:                             Angeline/Buster
Is Fearr / 5 Deireanach:      Oliver/Mary
Cluiche Deireanach:           Gene/Peg

Cártaí gach Máirt ag a 8.30 i.n.

 

The RNLI has announced that its latest all-weather class of lifeboat will be called the Shannon. It follows in a 45-year tradition of naming the charity’s lifeboats after rivers or stretches of water, but it will be the first time that the name of an Irish river has been used.

Paul Boissier, RNLI Chief Executive, said: ‘I’m delighted to announce that our latest class of lifeboat will be called the Shannon. Current and previous classes of lifeboat carry, or have carried, the names of rivers from Wales, Scotland and England, so it’s fitting that our fleet now reflects the fact that our volunteers save lives at sea all around Ireland as well as the UK.’

The Shannon class lifeboat – its previous designation was the Fast Carriage Boat 2 or FCB2 reflecting that it will be predominantly launched over beaches, – harnesses cutting-edge technology to ensure that it will meet the demands of a 21st century rescue service and allow the charity’s volunteer crew to do their lifesaving work as safely as possible in all weather conditions.

Using twin waterjets instead of conventional propellers, the Shannon class will be able to operate in shallow waters and be highly manoeuvrable. The waterjets also reduce the risk of damage to the lifeboat during launch and recovery, or when intentionally beached.

It can be launched, bow first, from a tractor and carriage and will have a top speed of 25 knots. Like the Tamar class lifeboat, the Shannon also has specially designed seats that protect the volunteer crew and SIMS (System and Information Management System), which allows the crew to monitor the boat from the safety of their seats.

Like all RNLI all-weather lifeboats, the Shannon is self-righting and will return to an upright position in the event of capsize.

 

Arklow Lifeboat Operations Manager and RNLI Honorary Life Governor Jimmy Tyrell has campaigned for many years for an RNLI lifeboat class to be named after an Irish river.  Commenting on the announcement Jimmy said, “I am thrilled with the news, not just for myself but for everyone involved with the RNLI in Ireland.  It is recognition for all the hard work of our volunteer lifeboat crewmembers, fundraisers and staff in Ireland.  This has been a subject close to my heart for many years and I am delighted that it has been announced while I am still a volunteer Lifeboat Operations Manager and heavily involved with the charity.   I am looking forward to seeing it on service at lifeboat stations in a couple of years.”

The Shannon will gradually replace the existing Mersey class lifeboat and will be the final step in enabling the RNLI to fulfil its operation commitment to ensure that all its operational lifeboats have a top speed of 25 knots.

Full sea trials will start later this year and the first operational Shannon class lifeboat is due to go on station in 2013.

Better Future In Sights Amidst Highly Positive Meeting Of Youghal Concerned Citizens

A POSITIVE and progressive mood prevailed at the fourth meeting of the newly-titled Concerned Citizens of Youghal on Tuesday April 5th. Over 30 people attended the gathering in the Red Store, which saw local business man Adrian Hyde elected secretary. The group also formally adapted a name after weeks of indecision. By Christy Parker | Pic: www.youghalonline.com

In a gathering that lasted almost two hours, there was a feeling that determination and destiny were, if not dovetailing, at least sharing the same air space. Many ideas and sentiments were expressed as sense of identity and purpose began, at last, to evolve. It would be impossible to record the issues addressed in great detail but a condensed summary would run as follows:

Initiatives proposed from the floor included:

Owners of derelict buildings be pursued with ultimate zest by the local authority to maintain better their properties; that an effort to initiate shellfish and other such enterprises on the river; negotiations be undertaken with those overseeing Merrick’s with a view to utilising the premises on a temporary basis for the retail of upmarket crafts, with stall holders/craft makers to bear responsibility for general overheads; tour bus drivers be imposed upon to linger longer in town, possibly through participation of transition year students or others proffering maps of the town to alighting visitors (or else just bribe the drivers!); those living in new estates and such outer reaches be encouraged to shop and socialise locally to a greater extent and perhaps craft training for unemployed be initiated to create markets; a survey to be conducted through Pobalscoil students and the internet’s social media on motorist’s views of parking and traffic –a sample questionnaire was circulated; the derelict Spinning Wheel site to be levelled for parking spaces, with a long-term view towards multi-storey development;  a summer festival or sports tournament be organised in conjunction with broad-based community support and national and international advertising, similar to such event in other towns; an offer from Youghal –born graphic designer Claire O’Regan to assist voluntarily with any marketing initiatives was relayed to the gathering and warmly received.

A recent article in the Irish Times, entitled How to Fix a Broken Town was fresh in the minds of most. While Chairman Jimmy Flanagan welcomed it in the sense that it might help to provoke a positive reaction, the overall impression was that in designating Youghal as economically ‘depressed’ and ‘depressing’ the feature had amounted to portraying a negativity that would not be easily counteracted. Both views were probably correct.

Tim Magee

The meeting was attended by Mr. Tim Magee, the Dublin-born, local-based marketing manager of international high repute. Mr Magee made an indelible impression on the gathering, not least when arguing that Youghal’s reliance on industry was tantamount to hindering sustainable development. Mr Magee said he “would hate to see a factory with 200 jobs coming to Youghal.” Context is everything in this regard. His point was that tourism and heritage were far more solid grounds on which to build prosperity and he proposed his views from a background of extensive experience in promoting tourism internationally on behalf of organisations, towns and even countries. “Industry is temporary,” he intoned, “tourism is permanent.” He said to forget industry. “The country can’t compete with eastern Europe and Asia. It’s hardly going to prioritise Youghal.”

The speaker advocated a fast and strong riposte to the Irish Times article which, he said, was a semi-rehash of a similar stance expressed by the Irish Independent a year previous. Wisely, he was not interested in the story, but in the response that would, or could, follow it. Basing responses to criticism on a dearth of industry was a waste of time he alluded, as against focusing totally on the positives of natural and designed infrastructure, which were sold and exploitable assets.

Binding tape

Mr Magee said Youghal had more natural infrastructure and beauty to offer visitors than most towns in Ireland. It was just either not being mismanaged or not managed at all. He advocated parking charges effectively “penalising people for visiting or working here.” He suggested that “six people and a roll of duct tape” would garner positive publicity were the parking meters to be rendered unusable “for the right reasons.”  For a moment, there was almost an air of revolution wafting through the room!

The marketing manager believed the beach needed more commercial activity, with a mere two casual trading bays a betrayal of potential. “People will go to worse beaches if they have more facilities. They want life on a beach,” he argued.

Most of all, he urged that Youghal acquire a ‘hook’ or ‘niche,’ as a prime marketing tool. He supported the promotion of a fish industry. If Youghal could justifiably boast being Ireland’s prime fish food town, people would flock here. As a former food critic, he felt all bare one or two of Youghal’s eateries were pursuing the wrong track. A strong seafood identity, properly managed perhaps by an overseeing board, was a menu for success.

Drawing parallels between Youghal and Killiney, Mr Magee again stressed that industry wasn’t fundamentally necessary. “You need to market Youghal as a place to come for mid-term breaks and holidays. Resolve issues such as drunken teens on Friday nights and people will see the town as a family friendly place and in time be happy to move her to live,” he proceeded. “They won’t mind driving to work because they will be coming back to here. But you must first position yourself for tourism” much-travelling Dubliner promised to assist as “with direction” as best he could before departing for another appointment. Applause followed.

Structure

The remainder of the meeting included input form Comhaltas Eochaill chairman Michael De Buitleir. He stressed strongly the need for “proper structure” and “legal status” as ground requirements for the burgeoning movement. “We are evolving now,” he said. “Then will the storm as agendas and disagreement emerge as they do within all groups and relationships. Then will come the norm.” Despite some expressed reservations that rules and regulations might strangle enthusiasm, Mr De Buitleir reiterated that proper structure was vital to carry weight, influence and respect.  Meantime good work had ensued on a good night. Now where’s that duct tape…

Next

Following an interim sub-committee meeting, the Youghal Concerned Citizens group will hold itsnext public meeting in the Red Store on Tuesday April 19th at 7 pm. The agenda will include: election of treasurer and formation of the following:

Working group to examine what we can do for Youghal

Working group to examine issues relating to development of the seaside areas of Youghal, such as beaches, marina, transport links, between town and beach and to formulate proposals to enhance and promote same.

Working group to formulate proposals for a central hook or message upon which the town can market and sell itself.

Committee to establish if there is a requirement and willingness for al groups and organisations in Youghal to meet and work together, co-ordinate activities, promote each other and establish a regular network and central message for Youghal.

The group is keen for further activists to come forward. It asks: Are you experienced in marketing? Can you type a report? Can you do some research, make some phone calls?  Do you have your own ideas you wish to put forward? Volunteer of every ability and discipline wil be most welcome and invaluable.

Inquiries: Chairman Jim Flanagan (024) 92962; 086-8128237.

Secretary: Adrian Hyde (024)91355; 087-9878171

Youghal Concerned Citizens
Press Release, 07/04/11.

After a successful and enthusiastic public meeting of citizens, traders and organisations, Youghal Concerned Citizens will hold its next meeting at 7pm on 19th April at the Red Store, Youghal. On the agenda for the meeting are:

Election of a Treasurer Formation of the following: Working group to examine issues relating to development of the seaside areas of Youghal, such as the beaches, marina, transport links between town and beach and to formulate proposals to enhance and promote same. Working group to formulate proposals for a central hook or message upon which the town can market and sell itself Committee to establish if there is a requirement and willingness for all groups and organisations in Youghal to meet and work together, co-ordinate activities, promote each other and establish a regular network and central message for Youghal. This is an ambitious agenda and more than ever we require volunteers who believe in Youghal and wish to make a difference. The hard work starts here!
Are you experienced in marketing? Can you type a report? Can you do some research, make some phone calls? Do you have your own idea you wish to put forward?  Volunteers of every ability and discipline will be most invaluable. We can make Youghal better. Only with your help.

For queries, feel free to contact:
Chairman: Jim Flanagan 024 – 92962 / 086 8128237
Secretary: Adrian Hyde 024 – 91355 / 087 987817

THE YOUGHAL AND DISTRICT COMMUNITY ALERT April meeting was preceded by a brief address from Morris Lynch. Morris is credited with founding not just the local community alert group but also with co-founding the movement nationally. He described how the concept arose from difficulties and troubles that were affecting old people over two decades ago.

As a member of Muintir na Tire, he attended meeting in various areas in the county, including Ballycotton. It was there that he encountered a man called John Murray from Churchtown South. The two men soon set about instilling a sense of alertness in communities, whereby inconsistencies such as strange people, unknown cars or suspect behaviour was noted.

In time this watchful community involvement brought a reduction in crime against elderly people, said Mr. Lynch. In due course Muintir na Tire and, later, an Garda, became party to the movement and Community Alert as we know it evolved nationally. Before concluding, Mr Lynch urged that the basic policy of wider community involvement and individual alertness within it, remain a central part of community alert practice. - By Christy Parker | Photo: Michael Hussey www.youghalonline.com

 

Crime stats:

Also attending were Youghal gardai Sergeant Mark Ward along with drugs squad Garda Aidan D’Ardis, both of whom would deliver a wide-ranging presentation on drug abuse. First Garda Ward relayed the reported crime statistics since the previous meeting on March 1st.

There had been five public order offences and several thefts, including some form petrol station in which drivers drove off without paying for fuel. The garda said this was an increasingly prevalent crime, albeit one in which detection was greatly assisted by CCTV footage. There had been one burglary and five criminal damage incidents of which one was detected. Five assaults had occurred, with all cases resolved. Two assaults had caused harm and were being further investigated. Six persons had arrested for drugs offences. St. Patrick’s Day had produced several incidents of underage drinking. The garda added that the youth of the town were very predominantly “decent people” and underage youths detecting drinking and their parents by and large co-operated with gardai and treated the issue seriously.

The elaborated monthly figures transpired thus:

Public Order Offences (5): Kennelworth, South Main Street (2), Tesco Mil Road, the Mall.

Underage drinking (6): Green Park, Breton Road, South Main Street (2), St. Mary’s College (2).

Thefts (9):  Tesco car park, Ballymacoda, Glendine, Crowley’s garage, Coleman’s supermarket, Rhincrew private residence, Bayview Grove, Keniry’s garage, Rendezvous café.

Burglaries (1): Unidentified business premises.

Criminal Damage (5): Pobalscoil na Trionoide, Quays bar, Carlton Village (2), Yew Wood,

Assaults (5): Woodview Court, (2), Grattan Street (1) two in Ardrath area.

Drugs (6): Ardrath area (3) Youghal Bay holiday homes (1), Carlton Wharf, Catherine Street.

Drug awareness presentation

There are 21 gardai, including three plain clothes and one clerical officer tasked with the job of crime prevention in Youghal. Within the local force, Sergeant Ward and Garda D’Ardis would be more au fait than most with drug crime prevention. The two gardai had brought a plethora of drug-related material to the meeting, including a €1,000 slab of ‘solid’ cannabis resin, €50 bags of herbal ‘grass’ cannabis, grinders and bongs. In a presentation developed particularly to educate parents, guardians and teachers, the gardai also proffered information on drug abuse from a user, social and legal perspectives.

The small, maturely-aged gathering –most of whom would not previously have encountered any drug stronger than a packet of un-tipped cigarettes- were intrigued and even shocked. That alone is testimony to the dearth of understanding amongst the older generations about the material that persists with such lethal potential in their community and which is particularly prevalent in youth culture.

The gardai explained that cannabis now accounts for 95% of drugs detections in Youghal, with cocaine use somewhat in decline during these recessionary times while ecstasy and amphetamines are also prevalent but less fashionable at present. Currently, heroin use is not a major issue in Youghal. “Cocaine, heroin and cannabis come from plants, while other drugs are synthetic,” explained Garda D’Ardis, before describing how to recognise herbal cannabis (usually but not inevitably, seven leaves).

Consumption:

Focusing on cannabis, the gardai circulated samples and explained how the drug is consumed. Advice was given on tell-tale signs of usage, such as cigarette papers with torn cardboard edges for wedges and so on. The audience learned that the drug is smoked either through mixing with tobacco, through a small pipe or via a large water-based bong. Samples of the innocuous-looking, grinders, often similar in appearance to pencil sharpeners, helped to explain the process by which the drug is first reduced to the required texture and quantity. There was surprise and some anger amongst the gathering that the equipment to facilitate usage was easily and legally available from retail outlets and on the internet.

Affects:

Different people will react differently to cannabis consumption, explained Garda D’Ardis. He elaborated that in many instances the full effects may not materialise for several years, as younger people’s cerebral functions evolve. He spoke of one local incident when cannabis provoked a highly violent response in a young user. “Consuming any drug –legal or otherwise- with another is also highly unadvisable,” he added, before warning that, “consumption of any narcotic can be fatal. You can never discount that possibility.” The gardai neglected to observe however that cannabis, especially prolonged use, can reduce sperm count, suppress ovulation in women and harm unborn babies when indulged during pregnancy.

Searches:

Diverting briefly to cocaine use, Garda D’Ardis said the drug, in small quantities, can be relatively easy to conceal, whether in adapted containers or on one’s person. The gardai conduct on street searches for drugs when there is “reasonable cause for suspicion.” He said innocent people, perhaps by association, will sometimes be included but “we make no apology for that.” There had been 360 on-street searches in 2010. A parent/guardian  is present when persons under 18 are searched.

Houses:

The gardai will raid and search a house only after the evidence leans overwhelmingly towards certainty that drugs persist within. Voluntary information and intelligence gathering invariably pre-empted such raids, which were conducted “in a low-key manner” albeit with the premises thoroughly searched. “We raid, on average, one premises every fortnight,” elaborated the garda. “We simply don’t talk about such work and neither of course will the householder!” He revealed that 60 houses searches in Youghal brought drug seizures, eight of which showed intent to supply. There had been 18 similar detections to date in 2011, including three for supply.

Families:

The gardai were at pains to stress that those who contact them with information or evidence of a family member using drugs will be treated sympathetically. While every incident is unique, “not everything has to go to court,” advised said Sergeant Ward. The impression given was that where a solution alternative to prosecution was appropriate and effective, it would be considered, with the compliance and co-operation of the perpetrator. “Many drug users are normal, otherwise decent people. There is no nice way to do our job but often we develop a friendly relationship from that point on,” the sergeant proceeded. “They sometimes just need help with their situation and appreciate when it is given.”

Recruitment:

Those at the top of the drug-pushing industry are predominantly non-users, “They are essentially business people in that respect,” explained Sergeant Ward. The modus operandi down the chain of command is generally an exercise in seduction and exploitation to herd users into reliance, whether physical, emotional or financial. “Often they will part discount a debt in return for recruiting new users, or actively pushing drugs on their behalf,” he explained.  Youghal, he added was “no better or worse than other towns of similar size” in this regard.

Offences and Penalties:

The two mainstays of the Misuse of Drugs Act are Section 3 and Section 15. Section 3 incorporates small usage, generally for personal consumption etc. Section 15 extends to ‘sale and supply,’ or possession of drugs valued at over €1,000.

Garda D’Ardis explained that penalties vary according to individual judges. However, the wider impact of a conviction is consistent and serious. “Basically it as good as bars you from entry to countries like America, Canada, Australia and New Zealand for life as well as exemption from employment in much of the public service,” warned the garda. “That’s because visa applications have to carry a Garda Certificate of Character and no matter what part of the country you are in, the conviction follows you.” The situation would persist even for holiday visas but given the rate of emigration from Ireland now and into the foreseeable future, the consequences of a drug conviction are tremendously daunting. “That’s why we place a very strong emphasis on visiting schools as well as informing adults,” said Garda D’Ardis. “A student’s life can be completely altered with just one conviction.”

Those at April’s meeting had largely managed to get through life without much knowledge of drugs, let alone a conviction. Amidst their applause for the garda presentation, one sensed a bemusement as to why anyone would want to get involved in the deadly distraction at all.

May’s Community Alert meeting will take place in the Walter Raleigh at 7.45 pm on Tuesday May 3rd.

Sinn Fein Cork East TD, Sandra McLellan has welcomed the EU Commissions decision to place a 3 month time limit for the Irish government to begin the clean up of the toxic waste site at Haulbowline.

Deputy McLellan said she salutes the hard work of all those who campaigned for this decision over the last ten years, particularly the volunteer groups from Cobh who took the case to the EU Petitions Committee, and who she had worked closely with at County Hall level in the past.

Deputy McLellan said, while she acknowledged and welcomed the positive role that FG MEP Sean Kelly had contributed to this EU decision, it now comes back to whether his party in Government at home will do the right thing and clean up the site, or if it and Labour will continue as Fianna Fail and the Greens had done before them when they denied and ignored the problem.

Sandra McLellan said the Fine Gael and Labour parties were very vocal in the recent past in condemning the FF/GR government’s role in covering up what was buried at Haulbowline and in calling for a baseline health study of the Cork Harbour area.

She said Cobh still remains a cancer black spot, and probably will after the Haulbowline site is cleaned up, and said the demand for such a baseline health study is one that won’t go away until it is granted.

Deputy McLellan said the time for half measures is now past and this Fine Gael/Labour government must now to put up and fulfil the promises it made before being elected, by offering the citizens of Cobh and other harbour communities the protections and quality of life they deserve

The saga surrounding the Traffic Management Plan for DeValera Street, Church Street and the interdependent route ways thereof is set to continue until July at least, following a recent Youghal Town Council sub-committee meeting. The meeting, reportedly held ‘in committee’ (no media), focused on several aspects surrounding the non-adopted Traffic Management Plan previously agreed for the area.

The plan’s architect, Cork County Council engineer Eileen Coleman, was present at the meeting. As Youghal mayor, Mary Linehan Foley explains , she joined in discussion on an agenda that included the following criteria: the Ashe Street-DeValera/Church Street ‘rat-run’;   opening of Church Street to vehicular traffic; opening Church Street to pedestrians on a section of Church Street;  two-way traffic on DeValera Street and one-way traffic on DeValera Street. Also discussed was, traffic calming; curtailing traffic at the junction of Ashe Street and Windmill Hill (Hayman’s Hill, i.e. at the Devonshire Arms Hotel); a one-way system on Hayman’s Hill; improving the quality of life of residents in the entire area and residents taking back ownership of the street by removing parked cars and limiting traffic.

Re-closing of Church Street amongst measures proposed…

The mayor says that “the members agreed after considerable debate to request that the traffic engineer amend the existing Traffic Management Plan to accommodate the following: pedestrianise Church Street as per the Public Realm Plan; design chicanes for operation of two-way traffic on DeValera Street (This would necessitate a vehicle traveling in one direction pulling in to facilitate another vehicle coming against it.). Every car would be removed from DeValera Street, with double yellow lines on both sides.  Bollards might also be installed. The amendments would also limit traffic by closing Hayman’s Hill to downward traffic only and restrict delivery vehicles on Church Street, DeValera Street and Ashe Street to cars.

The amendments reflect a response to town clerk Liam Ryan’s belief that upward access on Hayman’s Hill is a predominant contributor to the ‘rat run.’ (As against cars turning left onto Windmill Hill and then right into Ashe Street, which may yet transpire.) There exists a belief, explains the mayor, that “by the time drivers get to Windmill Hill, they are half way up the town anyway and will be less inclined to seek access to Ashe Street/DeValera Street.” Only time will tell on that one.

Amendments to be considered

Mayor Linehan- Foley stresses that the engineer “wants to look at these proposals in detail,” before deciding whether to amend the original plan. “So it’s not done and dusted by any means,” she adds. Should the amendment ensue, follow by the public consultation process, it is hoped that the business would conclude in July, the mayor proceeds. However, with any closure of Church Street in itself also requiring public consultation, there is potential for further delay and complication.

Meantime…

In addition to the present juxtaposition, it is prudent to remember that the residents of De Valera Street agreed to a two-way system with no parking on the lane in conjunction with residential parking on the new car park. However, that was prior to Church Street being closed, with the surge in downward traffic. Last week one resident of DeValera Street who has campaigned for a one-way system, agreed that traffic on the lane has been considerably reduced since Church Street was re-opened

THE AILBRIN SOCIETY presents an illustrated talk by Frances McCarthy on Blackrock Castle Observatory and the various programmes undertaken there. Blackrock Castle is one of Cork’s best known landmarks.

In 2007 a state of the art observatory and educational facility was opened there. A team of astronomical researchers from CIT are working on Ireland’s first robotic observatory, the Planet Search, as well as projects such as a Deep Space Live Webcam, Comet Chaser and most intriguing – Movies by Moonlight. Frances will be discussing these and other interesting facts on Wednesday 20th April at 8.30 p.m. in the Red Store, North Main Street, Youghal. Admission: members free, non-members 5E. New members always welcome.

At the Sinn Fein party convention at Youghal Town Hall, last night (Tuesday 11th April 2011) Eoin Flanaghan was nominated to succeed Deputy McLellan in the local chamber.

Eoin, from Windmill Hill, Youghal, is an active member of the Youghal Disability Action Awareness Group and helps in raising disability awareness in the town by visits to schools in the area. He has represented his country at junior level in the wheelchair Disc/Shot Putt and Javeline competitions in England and Wales. Eoin is the navigator for ‘Team Youghal’ in the forth coming cycling event ‘Race Across America’, the international fundraiser for the Emer Casey Charity Foundation.

27 year-old Eoin Flanaghan, was nominated without contest to succeed Deputy McLellan. A keen Celtic FC and Spurs supporter he is also a big fan of the Cork Hurling and Football teams. He is also a member of Youghal C.Y.M.S. and a big supporter of the society. A long time admirer of James Connolly, he only joined Sinn Fein in recent months and will fulfill his nomination at May’s meeting of Youghal Town Council subject to ratification.

Click on image to enlarge-Pics www.youghalonline.com

 

AT A PARTY CONVENTION HELD AT YOUGHAL TOWN HALL, last evening (Tuesday 11th April 2011) members of the Cork East Comhairle Ceanntair Sinn Féin, unanimously selected Cllr. Michelle Hennessy of Youghal, to fill the County Council seat left vacant by Sandra McLellan’s recent election to the Dail.

Speaking after her selection, Cllr. Hennessy said she was delighted and honoured to be chosen to fill the seat left vacant by Sandra and looked forward to immediately setting to work to represent the people of East Cork.

“I am particularly honoured and proud to have received the support of my councillor colleagues in the constituency and look forward to working with them in the interests of the people of their areas at County Hall level”.

Cllr. Hennessy said Sinn Féin had received a huge endorsement through the recent election of Sandra McLellan to the Dail and this has already resulted in major party building activity taking place within the constituency, including the opening of a number of constituency offices. She said she would be adding to that effort by holding regular constituency clinics in Cobh, Midleton and Youghal and anywhere else where there is a demand for them in the Midleton electoral area.

“Despite this cooption taking place in midterm, I will be given this job my full attention as if it had followed a normal election. I can assure the peoples of Youghal, Midleton, Cobh and from every village in between, that from tomorrow morning I will be at your disposal to represent you, and between now and the next election in 2014, you will recognise my name as one of a hard worker for the people of East Cork.”.

Cllr. Hennessy said she would work hard while a County Councillor to not only give the people of East Cork the representation they deserve, but also to help develop and expand the Sinn Féin party in the area, as one development will naturally assist the other.