De Valera street to stay two-way as Youghal council finally adopts a traffic management proposal. – By Christy Parker

YOUGHAL TOWN COUNCIL will hope to have ended four years of uncertainty and discontent having adopted a resolution to the traffic management issues surrounding the Ashe Street-De Valera Street-Emmet Place-Church Street routes at a special meeting last Tuesday morning (November 29th).

The meeting, which was held ‘in committee’ (private) was attended by all nine councillors –Mayor Eoin Coyne (FF) and Cllrs Barbara Murray (FG), Michael Beecher (FG), Michelle Hennessy (SF), Eoin Flanagan (SF), Liam Burke (Greens), Sammy Revins (FF),Tara O’Connell (Lab) and Mary Linehan-Foley (FF) and lasted about 90 minutes.

The meeting considered two proposals according to Mayor Coyne. “The first proposal, by Liam Burke was to leave matters as they are, i.e. De Valera Street two-way, Ashe Street and Emmet Place two-way, Church Street downwards only but closed through the tourist season of June, July and August to facilitate the Heritage Trail and increased tourism,” he says.

A counter proposal, from Cllr Linehan-Foley, also argued for the status quo to be retained but with Church Street open throughout the year. “She felt the three-month closure would cause too much hassle and confusion” says he mayor.

The first vote saw Cllr Linehan-Foley’s proposal also supported by Cllrs Hennessy, Flanagan and Mayor Coyne. The proposal was defeated 5-4 with Cllrs Beecher, Murray, Burke, O’Connell and Revins opposing. Cllr Burke’s proposal was then adopted 5-4 with the councillors retaining their stance.

Lines and signs

The mayor explains that both proposals carried an amendment that double yellow lines will apply to both sides of De Valera Street and the residents consequently obliged to avail of the lane’s car park, where resident permit parking is in place. However, a set-down area is to be provided for the veterinary surgeon’s practice. The mayor adds that “elongated rumble strips in the less populated parts of Ashe Street and Emmet Place will also be installed to calm traffic.”

Furthermore, access to Ashe Street via Hayman’s Hill is to be limited to local traffic, with appropriate signage to this effect erected at the entrance to Hayman’s Hill and the junction of Windmill Hill/Ashe Street. Again Mayor Coyne hopes and believes that people will observe this restriction, while deciding it is up to drivers to obey the law traffic warden and gardaí to enforce it. He expects the signage to be erected within six weeks.

Self-calming

Meanwhile it was decided that traffic calming –whether rumble strips or chicanes- on De Valera was unnecessary.  Instead the council opted to lace faith in Cork County Council traffic engineer Eileen Coleman’s opinion that traffic would ‘be self-calming’ on the basis that drivers approaching each other in opposite direction would slow down. How drivers will react on a clear stretch of laneway when there is no approaching vehicle nearby will soon become evident! “People aren’t stupid. They know it’s a built up area,” trusts the mayor, with abounding faith in that portion of humanity that has been sitting behind wheels and causing regular carnage since the horse became expendable!

The agreed measures will see traffic flow on DeValera Street relived for most of the year but possibly increase dramatically during the peak summer season, unless the ‘locals only’ stipulation is observed, in which case the main street will bear the extra volume.

In the coming weeks residents of the affected areas will be formally notified of the council’s ruling. Undoubtedly some will be happy and some will be quite the opposite. To be fair, it’s easy to find weaknesses in any proposal, given Youghal’s infrastructure and the dearth of car parking space at the southern entrance to town.

Any new system cannot hope to please everyone and only time will tell if there is sufficient support and effect to see this adopted proposal and its various accessories survive to permanency. The mayor accepts that time will provide the test but adds that everything “is open to review and people can always make representations.” He assures, finally, that the council will be flexible and considerate wherever and whenever it is deemed necessary to be so. It took a long time to get there. Hopefully the journey is over.

The meeting was attended by Assistant Town Clerk Helen Mulcahy, Town Manager Patricia Power, Mayor Mary Linehan-Foley, Town Foreman Ger Lupton, Town Engineer Paul Murray and Cllrs Barbara Murray (FG), Michael Beecher (FG), Michelle Hennessy (SF) Liam Burke (Green Party) , Eoin Coyne (FF) and Sammy Revins (FF).

Congratulations:

Cllr Murray congratulated the management and staff of both Cork County and Youghal Town Councils successfully working towards ensuring that Youghal has a blue flag on each of its three beaches. She asked the town manager to indicate to An Taisce that all three beaches are designated as Youghal locations, although technically Claycastle and Redbarn come under Cork County Council’s jurisdiction.) She further noted that the blue flags were accompanied by Green Coast awards, for wider environmental excellence. Cllr Burke observed that “Youghal is the only town in Ireland with three blue flags.”

Cllr Beecher praised the town’s artistic, musical and sporting talent in general. By example, he cited the Youghal Soccer Club’s “world class” presentation recently when they entertained Bray Wanderers. He elaborated with reference to Ireland’s renowned culture of welcome with reference to the visits of Queen Elizabeth and President Obama’s (although they avoided Youghal this time, possibly because the visits preceded the arrival of the third blue flag.) “It was fantastic to see the great Irish welcome,” he said before concluding the kudos with a tribute to CRY and its recent cancer charity promotion.

Votes of Sympathy:

Cllr Coyne called for a minute’s silence for Dr, Garret Fitzgerald and Brian Lenihan, “two wonderful men and fantastic servants to our nation who will be greatly missed.” This was duly observed.

Town Foreman’s Report:

Cllr Burke said a pothole at the bottom of Windmill Hill “keeps reappearing.” He then claimed that there were 11 errors in the Irish wording of the parking bye-law sign in Nealon’s Quay (probably replicated in similar signs in other car parks). He said the worse mistake was “the Irish for Monday,” being spelt “’Luna’ instead of ‘Luan’”, meaning the law was effective “from the moon to Saturday!”

Cllr Beecher wanted a sign at Claycastle indicating nearby toilets to be directed in the appropriate direction, as it was pointing to a private house whose residents were being disturbed by visitors wishing to avail of the facility!

Cllr Coyne wanted a loose manhole at Kenny’s Lane resolved,  he reiterated the misspelling of Irish words on the bye-law signs and sought clarification on the bye-law regarding dogs leashed on the beach during June-August. He was told it was requisite from 11 am to 7 pm seven days a week. He also sought pruning for some bushes on the Golf Links Road.

Mayor Mary Linehan Foley requested that weeds in the Mall be removed. She also asked, on behalf of some residents, that a railing be installed on a piece of ground being traversed by mass goers in Raheen Park. Happily, the railings at the former South Abbey school at South Abbey were an ideal fit and she suggested they be transplanted forthwith.

Cork County Council Items:

Cllr Revins observed that there were 42 pages in the latest Cork County Council Beach Bye Laws (oh Gawddd!) and while many of the stipulations would not be very relevant to Youghal, recommended that the councillors familiarise themselves with the details. Cllr Murray noted that the “very controversial bye-laws” irked many people with horse interests in west Cork, while dog issues mostly pertain to Youghal. Cllr Revins sought clarification on “a drain company offloading into the Slob bank renovation works. He learned that the substance in question was “sand and gravel” from a front strand sluice and not the contents of the town’s sewers as had been feared. (It’s unclear why it wasn’t just deposited on the beach).

Cllr Murray complained of the “absolute eyesore” that is the would-be library premises (the former Collins’s bakery). The town engineer said he would take up the matter with the county council. The councillor suggested that corri board be used an efficient and economic method of constructing signage to identify public toilets at the beach. They would be prominently displayed and visible from a distance. Cllr Murray then asked that highly visible signage be posted advertising the beach bye-laws. She also drew attention to a broken manhole cover in Dysart (near Strand church).

Cllr Beecher advised that a new gully be installed at Hillview, as previous efforts were insufficient. He asked that the road surface between Tesco and the council yard be improved to which the engineer said there was a shortage of manpower but he’d see what could be done. Cllr Beecher asked about the Tallow Road and was told that the road surfacing tenders were now in.

Cllr Burke delivered “the usual list of broken footpaths” aka Tallow Street South Main Street and junction of South Abbey/Strand Street,

Cllr Coyne said a pothole on Hayman’s hill was ever present and worrying and Mr. Murray said he hoped it could be repaired, budget permitting, along with works on Raheen Road. The councillor said the road surface at Knockaverry also needed remedying and the engineers said it was hoped to tend to it in 2012.

 

Mayors Business:

Cllr Linehan-Foley, in her final meeting as mayor, paid further tribute to former the late Taoiseach Garret Fitzgerald and Brian Lenihan TD. She wished absent Labour Cllr Tommy O’Connell a “full and speedy recovery” from his recent illness, the sentiments being unanimously endorsed. She conveyed best wishes to Team Youghal on their fundraising cycle across America and remarked that it was a great advertisement for the town. On behalf of the Youghal Concerned Citizens Group, she asked if the town hall rear area could be made available for the launch of the Youghal Bay Fish Pie award on July 2nd. The assistant town clerk asked that they contact her office. The mayor noted that here were many events planned for Youghal over the coming months before praising local events she had recently attended, including the “outstanding” First Army Band in the Collegiate Church on behalf of the Keith Phelan fund, a sand sculpture competition in Pilmore and the Munster Matchplay championship at Youghal Pitch and Putt club. The Vintage Vehicles day, Chatterbox, Choral and Musical societies, CRY’s Radiothon, Youghal Soccer Club versus Bray and, again, the Blue Flags were all lauded. The mayor hoped (probably in vain) that the national media would provide as much coverage for the blue flag regained as it did last year when it was lost! Cllr Beecher echoed the mayor’s sentiments that “negativity” was being afforded too much prominence.

 

Youghal Clock Gate Tower Business Plan:

Assistant Town Clerk Helen Mulcahy Sought and was given agreement to lease the Clock Gate to the Youghal Socio-Economic Development Group (YSEDG) for 7-10 years at an allowable rent and so enable that body to seek funding towards developing the structure.

Traffic Management Plan Church Street. DeValera Street, Ashe Street & Emmet Place. (Presentation of Amended Draft Plan by Eileen Coleman, Traffic Engineer):

See elsewhere in this issue for report.

Report on Claycastle Leisure Company by Chairperson (Mayor Linehan-Foley):

Following a recent meeting of the company, the mayor said, all was going well at the centre. However it was hoped that one (unnamed) school in Youghal would avail of the facility rather than travelling to another centre as was its current practice. “We need all the schools using it to keep it open,” she stated, adding that when funding was being sought to construct the centre, all the schools had indicated a need for the facility. A previous letter to the school inquiring as to its apparent aversion to using Aura had not received a response and another is to be dispatched.

Meeting with Youghal Chamber re: Motion:

“In the interests of advancing new retail business within the Town Centre, where an existing outlet has been vacant for a period of two years or more that Youghal Town Council call on the Chamber of Commerce/Youghal Traders Association to initiate guidelines/policy among its members and possibly all landlords within Youghal that such properties as mentioned above would be made available at 50% of the current market rental value for start-up retail businesses for a period of two years”:

It was decided to seek this meeting after the council’s July meeting (July 12th) rather than following the AGM on Tuesday 21st June as proposed.

Any Other Business:

Cllr Murray drew attention to the availability of the town hall/Mall Arts Centre as a location for civil marriages. She believed very few people were unaware of this fact and congratulated the council for its foresight in registering it as such.

The only town in Ireland to be awarded three Blue Flags for 2011, Youghal was celebrating last night (Thursday 9th June 2011) and hoping that the announcement by Environment Minister Phil Hogan will draw much-needed additional tourism into the area. The east Cork town gained an extra flag for its Front Strand while retaining the standard for both Redbarn and Claycastle – much to the delight of the Town Council.

“We had an inkling of the news last week but we now have three Blue Flag beaches that stretch across all areas of our strand. This is a very rare achievement and we are absolutely thrilled,” Helen Mulcahy, acting Town Clerk, told the Cork News.

“We were very disappointed when we lost the Blue Flag for Front Strand. There was a problem with the water quality but it really was borderline and could be attributed to bad weather at the time. Readings are taken at certain times of the year though, and they don’t always do justice to the quality of the water.

“However, this year we ticked all the boxes. We’ve been working very hard cleaning the beaches and putting various facilities in place like wheelchair ramps and litter bins. We’ve been going around the clock trying to meet all the criteria and thankfully we have managed to do just that. This is a great achievement for the Town Council, the local Tidy Town group and for Cork County Council.”

There are high hopes the news will result in more tourists coming in to visit the town, which has suffered badly from factory closures and job losses over the last number of years. “Youghal has been very badly hit recently, especially by the amount of unemployment we’re seen. One of the few assets the town has left is its beaches and we have to do everything we can to exploit that,” Ms. Mulcahy added.

“Youghal has beautiful strands and it’s a wonderful place to come and visit or spend some time on holiday. If visitors come, it could well generate more employment in the locality and hopefully start something positive. People come from far and wide to use Blue Flag beaches and tend to avoid ones that aren’t designated with the award. So we do expect a good response from the public and for them to come in their droves, especially if the sun starts to shine.”

Cork received 11 Blue Flags in total for criteria such as water quality, information provision and beach management and the national total of 82 is an increase of eight from 2010. The other beaches in Cork are Garryvoe, Garretstown, Garrylucas, Inchydoney, Owenahincha, the Warren, Tragumna and Barleycove.

Source: thecorknews.ie

Sinn Féin’s spokesperson on Tourism, Sandra McLellan, has welcomed the awarding of an unprecedented three Blue Flags to Youghal, with the Front Strand beach now joining Claycastle and Redbarn beaches on the prestigious list.

Speaking at the announcement of this year’s winners Deputy McLellan said: “I want to congratulate all of this year’s winners. The result for Youghal, in particular, is an absolutely outstanding achievement. To be awarded three Blue Flags surely confirms Youghal as the finest coastal resort in the country. The awards reflect a dedication to excellence and are a result of a huge effort from the local authority, staff and community. Their commitment to the campaign, including beach clean-ups organised by a range of voluntary groups, has been rewarded with this fantastic news.”

“It is important to remember that the Blue Flag stands for more than just excellent bathing water quality, but also reflects a beach’s compliance with a range of international standards covering areas such litter management, provision of lifeguards, toilet facilities, animal control and more. As such, the three Blue Flags which Youghal can now boast conveys, to potential visitors at home and abroad, that this area is dedicated to providing a first class experience in a first class environment.”

MARKETING, PROMOTION AND COHESION AMONGST PRIME ISSUES AT YOUGHAL CONCERNED CITIZENS MEETING. – By Christy Parker

Dozens of tour buses arriving in Youghal per week on the Rosslare to Cork/Killarney route make reference to Moby Dick as the only point of interest in Youghal, the most recent meeting of the Youghal Concerned Citizens group was told. Mr. Norman MacDonald, who is conducting research on the issue, also revealed that tens of tour operators on the same route bypass the town entirely throughout the summer.

Other issues to be aired at the meeting include a commitment to enter Youghal in a TG4 event for a €40,000 marketing award and a determination to bring cohesion to promotional events amongst the town’s diverse organisations.

The meeting, at the Red Store on Tuesday April 19th attracted a 20 plus attendance. With organisation and procedure becoming more fine-tuned by the meeting, the gathering processed the pre-set agenda with increased efficiency and purpose. Apologies were conveyed on behalf of PRO Noreen Hurley who was unable to attend due to minor personal circumstances.

The order of business ran as follows:

Opening address by Chairman Jimmy Flanagan:

Mr. Flanagan asked committee member Micheal De Buitleir for an update on a proposed parking a questionnaire to be conducted through Pobalscoil na Trionoide transition year. Mr De Buitleir said the school’s preference was to undertake the project in September. The Comhaltas Craobh Eochail chairman also informed that the group had missed the most recent “window opportunity” to contribute to the County Development Plan but that they would be consulted when the next seeking public submissions process arose. Planning and signage issues would feature on such agenda, he added.

Election of Treasurer:

Mr Flanagan said that the group would incur general running costs and responsibility for handling such finances was needed. It was agreed that donations (as against subscriptions) would be sought alongside a €2 contribution per member per meeting. The post of treasurer will be filled temporarily by group secretary Adrian Hyde. It was noted that one well-wisher had contributed €100 at the previous meeting.

Formation of a working group to examine issues relating to seaside development in Youghal and to formulate proposals for same:

Mr Flanagan successfully sought volunteers to investigate what needs attention in this area, whether it involve beach cleaning or more advanced projects. A Mr. Eoin Budds, from the floor, advocated efforts to develop the beach and river facilities as per other resorts, suggesting kayaking and festival-orientated beach activities as examples by which to maximise and market the natural beach resort. He undertook to compile a report for the next meeting.

Formation of a working group to formulate proposals for a central message or hook upon which the town can market itself:

The chairman recalled marketing manager Tim Magee’s impressive address at the previous meeting in which he stressed that while industry was welcome, Youghal’s focus should be on sustainable development of its natural amenities and local enterprises. It was conveyed from the attendance that Mr. Magee, despite his frequent business sojourns abroad, remains very willing to contribute to the group in whatever capacity is viable for him to do so.

Marketing catastrophe

Norman MacDonald diverted the discussion a little when he revealed that up to 35 bus tour companies operate on the Rosslare to Cork/Killarney throughout the summer and beyond. In an example of marketing deficiency, one of these, Seaways, conducts 47 seven-day and 25 ten-day tours through Youghal, amounting to one per week of each through Youghal. However the only point of interest they referred to in Youghal was Moby Dick, explained Mr. MacDonald.  He further revealed that many of the tour companies bypass the town entirely. He is now compiling details of as many companies as possible to quantify the dearth and potential of marketing within this sector.

Notwithstanding the good service it provided, through the pub of the same name, Mr. MacDonald felt strongly that Youghal had a lot more to offer besides the legacy of a dead whale to entice bus passengers to alight and to amble. There were many “treasures,” such as St. Mary’s Church, with walls dating from 600 AD, the River Blackwater and even murderous, marauding Cromwell if need be! He wondered of Comhaltas performers could greet arrivals, or if they might be induced to linger by older volunteers greeting them on arrival with pamphlets depicting Youghal’s many attractions.

The meeting also heard that only one of several cafés in the area showed interest in opening earlier in the morning to tempt such travellers. “We’re not being rude but we’re not being welcoming either,” surmised Mr MacDonald ruefully, adding. “You could show someone Youghal for a whole day and they’d still not see half of it!”

Mr. MacDonald then revealed that plans to acquire a unique model railway attraction from Dublin had been derailed as the owners had apparently opted to send it to a museum in Dun Laoghaire instead. A watchful eye would be maintained lest it became available nonetheless.

TG4

Micheal de Buitleir brought news that TG4 are launching a competitive ‘G-day’ event in which non-Gaeltacht towns will compete against each other to stage the best 24 hour Irish language and heritage festival. The contest carries a first prize of €40,000 towards marketing their area. “Even without winning, the competition gets you a lot of valuable television coverage,” he argued. It was agreed that Youghal would participate.

Cohesion, co-operation, clearing and Gavin

Mr De Buitleir proceeded that Youghal clubs and organisation had traditionally marketed themselves individually, whereas a joint and cohesive strategy would likely serve the town better. He also referred to ‘Painting Your Grey Area,’ a new promotion being run by Dulux in which the company will provide free paint for use on derelict public buildings.

Committee member Lil Danne remarked that several areas surrounding the beach and quays needed sprucing up and cleaning. She suggested that pointers might be garnered from viewing a Dirty Old Towns, a current television series in which gardener Diarmuid Gavin was applying his craft to improving Charleville. “He asked that they fundraise €30,000 towards the project and the entire town rallied behind it,” she observed.

Mr, De Buitleir reported that Comhalts Ceoltori Eireann had cleaned from the water tower to Magner’s Hill a week previous and said the town council were receptive to such voluntary ‘public realm’ initiatives. He urged that other groups consider similar projects. There subsequently emerged some discussion on the prevalence of unsightly sandbags in the town and it was agreed to remove them in a week’s time if they remained visible.

An unexpected revelation arose from Mr Flanagan when he produced a copy of the previous Saturday’s Irish Daily Mirror. It carried a feature on Youghal but, in stark contrast to the earlier Irish Times equivalent, it depicted a town laden with attractions and natural beauty. “It’s absolutely fantastic,” remarked the chairman.

Formation of a working to investigate the feasibility of implementing a strategy across all groups and organisations in regard to co-ordinating activities and events:

It was agreed that individual organisations were doing well in their efforts to promote the town from individual perspectives but that too often efforts clashed with those of other organisations, to the detriment of all parties and of the town.  It was recognised that the absence of representatives from local organisations at Youghal Concerned Citizens meetings did not facilitate improvement in this sphere. The meeting agreed to contact as many organisations and clubs as possible with a view to acquiring their views on the issue. A suggestion was made also that efforts be made to publish a calendar of events in the local media some weeks in advance to help avoid a clash between meetings, events, etc.

Youghal Lace

A spokeswoman representative Youghal Lace revealed that the group is planning to re-convene in the coming weeks. She said much plans for the future included tutoring interested parties in the art of producing the unique lacework. As regards exhibiting past creations, she was not in a position as yet to declare or elaborate on that.

As the meeting neared conclusion, there was consensus to ask the town council in writing for an update on the proposed restoration project for the Clock Gate, which was predicted to commence this month.

The final item concerned the old railway station. Two people in attendance expressed a willingness voluntarily to clean up the site. They were told that the town council has contacted the site owners, Iarnrod Eireann and were awaiting a response on a request to render it less unsavoury looking. Meanwhile the volunteers were advised to contact the company with any proposals.

Reports and progress on all the above issues will be processed at the next meeting of the Youghal Concerned Citizens’ss next meeting on Tuesday May 10th at 7 pm in the Red Store.

Enjoying The Craic In Cork

by Nigel Thompson, Daily Mirror 16/04/2011

STANDING in the garden of his seaside home in Ireland, Sir Walter Raleigh lit up his pipe and took a deep drag… only to be hit full in the face by a bucketful of water.
No, it wasn’t an early anti-smoking lobby trying to nip a nasty habit in the bud, but Sir Walter’s servant, who had never seen tobacco before and thought his master was on fire!
The Elizabethan explorer also brought the first potatoes to Ireland, which probably made him more popular there than later occupants of Myrtle Grove, in the historic town of Youghal, east Cork.
Oliver Cromwell took the house as his winter quarters while he tried to quell the rebellious locals and infamously hung captured rebels from Trinity Gate, now the town’s landmark clock tower.

 

History is soaked into the fabric of this ancient town, from the Bronze Age settlers, the Danes and Celtic nobility, to its role as a major port and rebirth as a tourist resort.
Climb up the long flights of steps by the side of the clock tower and you will reach the old town walls, still pretty much intact, which once kept out invaders. The town has retained its charm to such an extent that it was used as a location in director John Huston’s 1956 movie Moby Dick, to represent 19th Century US fishing port Nantucket.
High up on the hill overlooking the town, the view is breathtaking. On one side, the mouth of the beautiful River Blackwater, on the other the wide sweep of Youghal Bay, with a seemingly endless expanse of beach which stretches almost to within touching distance of Capel Island on the western tip.

 

Of course, this is the Irish Riviera, not the Cote d’Azur, and that sparkling sea is not exactly Mediterranean temperature. But the palm trees which thrive in gardens all over town are a hint that this part of the south coast has a special dispensation where the weather is concerned.
There are locals here looking young on the strength of a daily dip.
Despite the presence of a Baywatch-style lifeguard, the culture is still more Dangerous Book for Boys than nanny state!
When it’s rough, the kids are out on bodyboards, playing chicken with the rocks. When the tide’s in and the waves are crashing over the sea wall, they are running about trying (not very hard) to dodge a soaking from the spray. When the mackerel are in, they are on the quayside with their fishing rods.

 

Last summer, we went for three weeks without a drop of rain and it was almost a disappointment. Normally, the arrival of the Irish “mist” is a wonderful excuse to stay in bed until the pubs open for a comforting glass of the black stuff – that’s Murphy’s round here, brewed down the road in Cork, with the chance of a mystifying but exciting game of hurling or Gaelic football on the bar telly.
When the sun reappears, there are plenty of other attractions nearby to explore. Heading east out of town, just across the border in County Waterford, is the picturesque village of Ardmore, easily located by its tall and ancient round tower.
A religious hermit called St Declan settled here in the 5th or 6th Century – some say even before St Patrick – and the remains of his church still occupy a prime location overlooking the bay. Take a walk along the cliffs before returning to the elegantly rebuilt Cliff Hotel for a delicious lunch.

Strike out west from Youghal towards Cork, turn left at the village of Castlemartyr and you come to Ballycotton, another impossibly picturesque bay.
Afternoon tea on the sun-drenched terrace of the Bayview Hotel gives you a stunning view of the fishing boats moored in the harbour and the lighthouse on Ballycotton island.
A little way down the road in Shanagarry is the famous Ballymaloe House hotel and cookery school, where the Allen family has established an international reputation for fine cuisine using local produce. Book well in advance for the Friday-night buffet, with a daunting array of seafood ranging from salmon to sea urchins.
Elegant rooms are hung with original modern art and friendly staff tempt you with second helpings and tasters of the dishes you didn’t choose.
But you don’t have to leave Youghal to enjoy the highest standard of cuisine. Aherne’s, on the main street, is a traditional pub which has expanded into a town house hotel and restaurant. The Fitzgibbon brothers, John and head chef David, have created a great ­seafood-rich menu in the restaurant, with equally high quality bar meals available in the pub section.

Across the road, you’ll find The Nook pub, where three times a week local musicians serve up traditional music from singalong ­­­­foot tappers to haunting ballads.
If you need to work off the calories there are some excellent golf courses within easy reach – Youghal’s own is high up on a hill overlooking the bay.
For shopping, head into Cork where the recent City of Culture modernisation programme hasn’t quite obliterated the city’s ramshackle charm.
If the Irish mist does set in, there’s no better place to escape than the Jameson’s whiskey distillery in Midleton, a cathedral town on the road to Cork. This is the home of the famous Irish tipple and the tour of the old distillery buildings, now superseded by a modern production plant, is fascinating.
At the end of the tour be sure to volunteer for the tasting test, where you try to distinguish glasses of Jameson’s, Scotch whisky and American bourbon.
For a special treat, buy yourself a bottle of Midleton Very Rare, a blend of whiskeys of differing ages selected by master distiller Barry Crockett, who signs each bottle sold in its beautiful wooden box. It’s upward of £100 a bottle, but tastes like ambrosia – the perfect way to remember a visit to God’s own country.

 

 

The meeting was preceded by a presentation from Ned Brennan, chairman of Youghal Tidy Towns Committee. Mr Brennan thanked the town council for its ongoing support and averred to the committee’s achievements over the past year and its aspirations and plans for the future.  See elsewhere in this issue for a synopsis of his report.

Cllr Barbara Murray made some critical observations regarding the executive of Cork County Council’s contribution towards certain aspects of town tidiness, aka approach roads, grass cutting, etc. She asked how the county council could in its wisdom deploy two extra workers to the landfill at a time when its tonnage was at an all-time low, while the entrances to the town were dilapidating through lack of manpower. Having listened attentively, Town Manager Patricia Power said she would sit in on a meeting to be arranged early next spring between Youghal Tidy Towns committee and the Cork County Council’s area office, whereby specific requirements of the committee could be aired.

The town manager believed that the county council was making steady progress in resolving the problem of derelict sites, although the seemingly imminent liquidation of the proprietors of the former Murray’s Kitchen site posed a difficult challenge regarding that particular eyesore.

Votes of Congratulations:

Cllr Sandra McLellan congratulated Pa O’Shea on winning a silver medal at the World Military Boxing Championships recently. She asked that he be included in the councils’ bi-annual awards night ceremony.

Cllr Murray paid tribute to playwright and theatre director Sean O’Neill and the Youghal Theatre Company for the highly successful production of Playboy of the Western World at the Walter Raleigh Hotel. “It was absolutely superb, the set was fantastic and it was extremely well attended, “she observed. Cllr Murray also congratulated the town clerk and the staff of the town and county councils on the operation of a Youghal flood plan. Initiated through a local group in Catherine Street, the plan was given its first outing during a recent storm warning that ultimately failed to live up to its billing. “It was something of a dry run,” noted Cllr Murray with unintended irony, “but it worked very well. The lines of communication were excellent, text messages went out as planned and everyone knew what was happening regarding sandbags and other matters.”

Mayor Mary Linehan Foley offered belated congratulations to the Team Youghal cyclists on their successful ‘Race Around Ireland’ fund raising on behalf of the Emer Casey Fund last September. She said a larger exploit involving an American excursion was in the pipeline. The mayor also congratulated artist Pauline Neville for her recent, successful exhibition in the Mall Arts Centre. She extended plaudits to Michael Hackett on the launch of his book ‘Sars,’ adding that he was keeping the history of Youghal alive for many people, especially younger generations, who would otherwise be unaware of the rich content. The mayor also echoed Cllr Murray’s sentiments regarding council staff and the storm plan.

Town Foreman’s report:

Cllr Liam Burke said light no. 133 at North Main Street was out. He asked if the engineer had seen the road markings at the junction of Seafield Road and Kilcoran Road, where great danger persisted. The councillor said the path leading to Ardan na Mara was very slippery due to algae and finished by asking whether the diving rocks report was yet available, to which there was no response.

Cllr Eoin Coyne drew attention to illegal dumping on the Jail Steps, noting it was not the first time it had been mentioned in the chamber. He asked if the mobile CCTV was back in town, to which the town clerk said he wasn’t going to comment as it could impede detections. The councillor also repeated a request from September that a tree at the graveyard be trimmed.

Cllr Sammy Revins said the newly surfaced road at Raheen Park had “gone green” and slippery with moss and was particularly dangerous for elderly people.

Rats

Cllr McLellan described illegal dumping at the Jail Steps as “really serious,” and claimed “hundreds and hundreds” of rubbish bags had been dumped illegally over a lengthy period. She said rat infestation was now prevalent, and three rodents had been seen simultaneously on the steps recently. “You shouldn’t see that on a tourist walkway,” she pleaded.

Cllr Murray asked if the bin at the greyhound track –which had been burned out- was to be replaced. She drew attention to a ‘dangerous bend’ sign at the tennis court that was green and badly needed washing and also warned that the wind had turned a number of signs to face the wrong way, including one at Nealon’s Quay.

Cllr Michael Beecher suggested a CCTV camera be placed permanently at the Jail Steps to counter illegal dumping. He asked that graffiti be cleared from a number of buildings and said dog fouling was a persistent problem, especially at weekends when the litter/dog warden was off duty. He requested that the owners of a property be asked in writing to remove ivy that was intruding into the adjacent graveyard.

Cllr Michelle Hennessy said “Fr. O’Neill is completely green” in reference to a statue in the ’98 Memorial Park, (appropriately known as Green Park.) Other statues were in a similar state at the location, while bars in the bandstand needed replacing. The councillor said the new car park byelaws had been implemented since November 1st but people remained unaware of them. She was told that the relevant signage had to be erected before they could be implemented.

Mayor Linehan Foley repeated that the ‘dangerous bend’ sign needed cleaning and a sign at Tides/McCurtainstown was facing the wrong way.

Town engineer Paul Murray’s report arising from October’s meeting:

Town engineer Paul Murray said road repairs had taken place at Ballyclamsey, the road liners were due in town and would address the problem at Seafield Rd. A contractor had been appointed to complete footpath works at the intersection of New Catherine Street and Grattan Street. Approximately 1,000 sandbags had been provided to the public prior to the previous weekend’s flood alert, with county council staff working late Friday and early Saturday morning. Bags were delivered when elderly people rang requesting them. He said Cork County Council wished to point out that the propriety flood barrier, which is placed across a doorway, is the best option. The Youghal water reservoir is currently being cleaned out, using underwater robotic cleaning system, he proceeded, while work was ongoing at replacing filter sand at Boola waterworks. The road contractor was expected to fix a hole at Raheen Road. Mr. Murray then said that it may have appeared from October’s meeting that access to private land at the front strand was problematic. “We have set up a communication system with the landowner to gain access to the main sewer when required and this is working satisfactorily,” explained.

County Council Items:

Cllr Revins said “lethal” potholes near Copperally needed filling, while “a mighty crater” was evident at Summerdale Lawn.

Cllr McLellan asked that the town engineer “touch base” with councillors when the road liners come to town as they each had their own issues. Mr Murray advised submitting a written list to him.

Bins, dogs and water

Cllr Murray asked that a ‘stop’  or ‘yield’ sign be erected temporarily at the Seafield junction until the road liners arrived. She had met someone who had very narrowly avoided an accident and it would be “a fright to God” if one occurred in the interim. The engineer agreed to install a few bollards. Cllr Murray advocated removing the bins at Claycastle car park (due to misuse and abuse) and wanted the poop bins emptied twice weekly on behalf of dog owners. She wondered if Cork County Council might employ the same CCTV operator as was serving the town council and was informed it was being considered. Cllr Murray said the heather at the Bretton Road roundabout needed trimming before asking if anything could be done to alleviate ponding near Claycastle caravan park. “There is no footpath and people have to go on the road but with excessive rainfall the water meets in the middle. I know it’s a difficult problem, with the levels and the drains filling up quickly on either side,” she explained.

Cllr Beecher said a low grate at Cock and Bull fills with leaves etc, causing flooding in heavy rain and he sought a better system. The engineer said it was on his list. In a humorous aside, the mayor asked whether the address Cock and Bull was named after Cllr Beecher, prompting Cllr Revins to inquire as to which one he represented. When the laughter had subsided and Cllr Beecher’s complexion had returned to normal, the councillor proceeded with his political objectives, insisting that he wanted “action not just answers” in regard to the ongoing foul odours emanating from the landfill vicinity.

Cllr Hennessy asked when the footpath at Raheen Road would be completed. The town clerk said it would have to be re-tendered as the contractor was emigrating. The councillor requested a solution to severe ponding at the entrance to Springfield Court.

Outfall pipe debacle

Cllr Burke had a notion that the new valve recently installed at the front strand outfall pipe was proving inadequate as he had seen a JCB working there to remove blockage. He was correct. The town engineer revealed he was meeting a senior colleague from Cork County Council that very afternoon to discuss the issue.

Cue a mini-debate in which the lengthy saga of Cork County Council’s struggles with various valves and stop-gap measures across several years. “How much is it costing?” asked Cllr Beecher in vain. “There was supposed to be a report on that,” reminded Cllr Murray, without response. “Surely the time has come for County Hall to admit that the only solution, as recommended some time ago, is to extend the outfall,” demanded Cllr Burke. Mr. Murray conceded that the county council senior executive engineer was now of the same opinion.

Town Manager Patricia Power said the county council had been trying to having to apply for a foreshore licence and that the most recent failed valve initiative had worked in many other situations. Extension would now be seriously considered. Cllr Murray wondered if the extension was not part of the plan for the town’s main drainage scheme and she also advised that the council workers on the ground who knew and dealt with the issue be consulted. The town engineer said this was normal practice.

Groynes

Cllr Murray then cited concerns that the extension would prevent the surplus water from being fully emitted due to its proximity to incoming tides. Furthermore, a lack of adequate groynes was causing a strong movement of sands and one or two groynes would have to be installed to prevent this. The council said it would await a report from the engineer at December’s meeting. “These stop gap solutions are a huge waste of public money,” concluded Cllr Burke accurately, in what might be termed parting kick in the groyne to Cork County Council.

Cllr Coyne wondered if it was pointless to ask whither the broken footpaths at Dr Kennedy’s Place, given that Cllr Burke had been raising the issue since he (Cllr Coyne) was a schoolboy (which was not too long ago in fairness). He had seen an elderly person trip there recently. “It will be included in a survey he is conducting,” Cllr McLellan interceded.

Mayor Linehan Foley warned that some of the groynes in the strand were sharp “like teeth and deadly dangerous” and she asked that the engineer have a look at them.

Mayor’s Business:

The mayor said she was going to be away for a week and would delegate her duties to her deputy Cllr Eoin Coyne. She also referred to a ‘Race Across America’ project being planned for next summer by Team Youghal cyclists on behalf of the Emer Casey Foundation. Further and detailed information was contained in brochure distributed to the members. The mayor said the group’s increasing profile was “putting Youghal on the map” and urged the council to offer whatever financial or other support that could be apportioned. There was general consensus that what could be done in testing times would be done.  “Some of them are not spring chickens and this is a stamina test so fair play to them,” observed the mayor admiringly.

Heritage Island Marketing and Promotional Plan 2011:

Town Clerk Liam Ryan explained that Youghal’s membership of Heritage Island meant the town would be promoted through the following channels: Inclusion in Ireland Visitor Attractions Guide, inclusion in the Group Organisers Manual, promotion via web and email strategy, inclusion in Heritage Island online booking engine, promotion at 20 tourism and lifestyle shows, Heritage Island iPhone app  & mobile marketing, inclusion in Heritage Island Social & Media channels and party to Heritage Island’s tourism partners, seminars, media and familiarisation trips.

In a secondary report, Mr. Ryan revealed that two grant applications had been made to the Heritage Council for (a) St. Mary’s Collegiate Church Graveyard Trail –Final Phase and (b) Conservation and Management Plan for St. Mary’s Graveyard, Youghal:

Cork County Council Draft Beach Bye laws for Public Consultation:

The town clerk explained that this document erroneously includes Youghal’s front strand in its jurisdiction whereas Youghal Town Council has its own beach bye-law legislation. The new laws will be applicable to Claycastle, Redbarn and Pilmore however. Submissions are being accepted up to December 10th next at the Secretary of the Coastal Management Committee at Cork County Council.

Cork County Council -Corporate Plan 2010-2014:

Of note in reference to this item is the inclusion of the government’s impending white paper to abolish town councils. Cllr Revins said that such a move would be challenged on the ground being anti-EU policy. “It flies in the face of democracy,” observed the town clerk. “As a Fianna Fail councillor I think it’s time this government stepped back and let someone else run the country. It’s a disgrace what they are doing and I’m sick of them,” commented Cllr Revins unexpectedly.

Notice of Proposed Amendments to the Draft Waterford County Development Plan 2011-2017:

Copies of this document are available at Youghal Town Council’s offices.

Draft Anti-Social Behaviour Strategy:

There was widespread welcome for the county council produced document, which focuses strongly on anti-social behaviour in accordance with Section 35 of the Housing Act 2009. Cllr McLellan said it was badly needed and helped define whether an issue was a council or a Garda matter, etc. She said it was “good that all complaints will be investigated.” The mayor stressed that people should be aware that complaints or concerns put in writing are regarded and treated confidentially by the recipients. The town clerk advised that while the policy is very welcome, the reality was that the number working hours available to the council on any given week a year ago had been reduced by 28% from 315 to 231. Consequently, issues would be investigated as ‘priority’ or ‘non-priority’ complaints.

Commencement of Taking in Charge Procedure for Gort Aoibhinn, Youghal, including Public Road Motion Procedure:

Mr. Ryan said Youghal Town Council’s February 8th meeting would consider and decide whether to designate a cul-de-sac in this area to be public road. A map indicating the area was available at the town council’s offices. Objections and submission on the road being designated public should be lodged in writing at the council offices before Jan 20th 2011.

2010 proved a landmark year for Youghal and its surrounding areas when it was ear-marked by Failte Ireland as a ‘Family Friendly Hub’ – a Failte Ireland family friendly holiday initiative.  The initiative is set to expand over the coming months as the local steering committee and Failte Ireland undertakes a major recruitment drive of new tourism activity providers, approved accommodation providers, along with restaurant and food providers to the programme.

The aim of the project is to develop the region (Youghal, East Cork and West Waterford) as a family holiday resort, increase visitor numbers and grow revenue.  To date over 27 tourism operators in the area are currently reaping the rewards of having signed up to become one of the programme participants.  The initiative has provided a wide range of free training in marketing and customer care for all participants, produced a brochure, developed a web presence, conducted an advertising campaign, supported family friendly product development and funded beach management projects.

Hilary Creedon of Failte Ireland outlined the progress to date on the initiative: “The feedback to date from visitors to the initiative has been extremely positive.  A nominated industry steering group drives the initiative at a local level with the support of Failte Ireland and this is working extremely well.  At this stage of 2010, we’re ready to bring the project to the next stage of development.  Following its first full year of operation, we plan to work closely with operators to build on the quality of the family friendly experience that is delivered in the area”.

This local steering committee is made up of tourism product providers in the Youghal, East Cork and West Waterford region and is chaired by Sal Tivy of Perks Entertainment Centre.  One of the first tasks this voluntary steering committee set about was organizing a free family festival weekend from 16th – 18th July 2010 which attracted in excess of 5,000 visitors to the area over the course of the weekend.   “The festival exceeded all our wildest expectations”, said Sal Tivy, of the steering committee.  “On reflection however, I believe the secret of our success was that all the fun events were free and the simple, old fashioned ideas will always be enjoyed by kids of any era,” commented Sal.

The area was chosen not only because of its +2,500 bed nights, but also key to the decision process was that facilities are already in place for the ideal family holiday – with two blue flag beaches, water activities along with the ability to offer families the facility to holiday in any weather conditions.  Another key factor was because of its geographical location and touring base for families to visit the many attractions and activities in the wider East Cork and West Waterford area.

To become a partner on the programme tourism product providers must sign up to the ‘Family Friendly Charter’ which outlines the basic requirements to be considered a family friendly establishment. There is no cost incurred to prospective members, and members will greatly benefit from attendance at a free day training course for Family Friendly Service Delivery conducted by marketing and customer care professionals.  This is a pre-requisite for at least one nominated member of staff.  Members also benefit from inclusion in Fáilte Ireland’s communications campaign for the Family Friendly initiative (including printed material, direct Mail pieces, web, publicity etc).

A quality control mechanism has been put in place by Failte Ireland where programme participants will be visited to ensure the consistency of their family friendly offering and that all elements of the charters are being adhered to.

If you are a tourism product provider in the Youghal, East Cork or West Waterford region, keen and in a position to deliver a ‘family friendly service’, why not consider getting involved in this innovative and free initiative?  For more information contact the Family Friendly Steering Committee, c/o Youghal Chamber of Tourism & Commerce on: 024-92447 or email: info@youghalchamber.ie

Issued by:
Youghal Socio-Economic Development Group Ltd.
Contact: Aileen Ahern Tel: 024-81814 E:tourism@youghal.ie

By Kay Donnelly

On a recent visit to Spanish Point Beach, which does not hold a candle to YOUGHAL I saw this notice. They have passed these bylaws to protect the little bit of beach they have and the lifeguards are authorised to issue fines. Recently a visitor to Redbarn strand told me he Read more

By Christy Parker

Current recycling centre at Tides’s

Cork County Council is relocating its recycling centre adjacent to Tide’s restaurant to an area on the Front Strand. Town Manager Patricia Power told Youghal’s February Town Council meeting that she and the Co. Council’s senior engineer for waste management made the decision in the wake of ongoing “very substantial abuse” of the service at Tide’s.

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