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Hoorah for Harley! e h t f o l a e p p a g in r u The end NOW €3.50/£3.00 le c y c r o t o m n a ic r e m A ll a Words as warriors Issue 139 Jan - Feb 2026

Profile of Roddy Doyle

Foxford favourites Recipes from the Foxford Café Cookbook

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Back to our past

How to trace your family history

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Issue 139 - January - February 2026

Contents 76

News: 2

Western Ways: 50 George Keegan reports on happenings in the West

Words as weapons: Aubrey Malone profiles Roddy Doyle, a writer of many parts

75 years since the Quiet Man: Des McHale recalls the making of the celebrated film

Creative Writing: 60 Useliterary code scene Eileen Casey on the pulse of the national

How to become part of the ‘new old’: Lorna Hogg reports on the trend with many older people to ‘break out’

Wine World: 66 TO SAVE New beginnings: Wines for the New Year.10% Buy Mairead Robinson suggests trying something new for 2026

Medical treatment options in Latvia:

Dublin Dossier: 54 Pat Keenan on events in and around the capital

‘ST10AU’

direct from doro.com Golf: 72

Bridge: 28 More tips for the table from Michael O’Loughlin

Remembering Sev 50 years on. Dermot Gilleece recalls seeing Seve Ballesteros burst on to the scene for the first time in the Open at Royal Birkdale in 1976.

Hoorah for Harley: John Feehan on the enduring appeal of the Harley Davidson motor bike

The Foxford Café Cookery Book: Recipes from the best-selling book

Islands by the sea: In this first article of a two-part series, Zoe Devlin delves into the history and geology of our islands

Crossword: 78 Beauty: 80 Meeting Place: 82

42 Live life with easeCrafts: 88

Back to our past: Tracing your family history

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Publishing Directors: Brian McCabe, Des Duggan Boxfamily Numberand 13215, Rathmines, communicate easilyP.O. with friends, despite the challenges that might Editorial Director: John Low Dublin 6, Ireland come with age. That’s why we develop easy-to-use mobile phones and landlines Advertising: Willie Fallon Tel: +353 (01) 4969028. Sponsored by for calls you can hear wherever you are. Design & Production: www.cornerhouse.ie Fax: +353 (01) 4068229 Contributors: Dermot Gilleece, Lorna Hogg, Editorial: John@slp.ie Free delivery on all orders Mairead Robinson, Eileen Casey, John Feehan, willie@slp.ie Discount code will work between 1st May and 30thAdvertising: June 2022 inclusive and must be added to the basket at checkout. No cash alternative is available. Connie McEvoy, George Keegan, Pat Keenan Michael O’Loughlin and Eamonn Lynskey. Published by S& L Promotions Ltd., AD DORO 8100, 5860,6820,6880_200x260.ind.indd 1 2022-06-28 16:09 Sign up to our newsletter and be in with a chance to win some great prizes at www.seniortimes.ie Follow us on Facebook and Twitter and don’t miss our chart topping series of podcasts!

News

News Now Ireland tops EU good health poll

Ireland has retained its position as the EU country with the highest self-reported rate of good health. Data in the latest State of Health in the EU Country Health Profiles shows that four in five (80%) Irish adults rated their health as good or very good in 2024. This is the highest proportion in the European Union, and maintains the high rate recorded in 2023. Country-specific profiles, published by the OECD and European Observatory in cooperation with the European Commission, provide an overview of health and health systems in the EU/ European Economic Area, and highlight areas of strong performance as well as challenges.

• Ireland’s health spending per capita is 17% above the EU average (2023). • Ireland’s avoidable mortality rate is 21% lower than the EU average, and 30-day survival after heart attacks and strokes exceeds EU levels. • Cancer survival rates in Ireland have improved across all cancer types in the last decade. • Retail pharmaceutical spending in Ireland is 7% below the EU average in 2023 - reflecting effective costcontainment measures. Challenges in Ireland’s health performance are also noted.

Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill

medicines, due to protracted Health Technology Assessment processes and pricing processes. Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill said: “We want to provide timely, quality care as close to home as possible which is why we are investing in and expanding our prevention and primary care services. We have driven significant progress in recent years, with 51 new Primary Care Centres opened since 2020. "

• Life expectancy at birth was 82.9 years in 2023, 1.5 years above the EU average.

Inpatient care accounted for 35% of health expenditure in 2023, above the EU average of 28%, underscoring the challenges facing Sláintecare’s ambition to shift care demand toward strengthened primary and community settings.

"Initiatives such as our Chronic Disease Management Programme are enabling more patients to be managed in their community, reducing the burden on our acute hospitals. We have also increased access to free GP care by expanding eligibility thresholds, supported by continued investment aimed at expanding the number of GPs."

• Daily smoking prevalence in Ireland fell to 14% in 2022, well below the EU average of 19%, reflecting the impact of sustained tobacco control policies.

In 2024, 5% of adults in Ireland reported unmet needs for primary care, above the EU average of 3%. The report also highlighted delays in access to new

“These developments are the foundations of a larger, better equipped health service that can meet the needs of our growing and ageing population.”

Highlights in Ireland’s Country Health Profile include:

2 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

Finance

Make 2026 the Year Your Savings Start Working Harder As we begin a new year, many of us are reassessing our finances and thinking about how to make our money stretch further in 2026. One challenge facing Irish savers is that, despite record levels of household deposits, much of this money is still sitting idle in low-interest overnight accounts. Last year, Irish household deposits reached a record €170.3 billion in October, yet €1.9 billion of that monthly increase went straight into overnight accounts that typically earn little more than zero interest. Over the year, households added €6.5 billion to these accounts, compared with just €4.2 billion going into term deposits. This pattern shows that many savers are continuing to prioritise convenience over return, even as competitive rates are available.

Why 2026 Could Be the Year to Break Old Habits According to Eoghan O’Hara, Country Manager at Raisin Ireland, the opportunity for savers is bigger than many realise. “The latest figures highlight just how deeply entrenched the overnight-deposit habit is in Ireland,” says O’Hara. “Irish savers are still leaving enormous sums idle. Even modest short-term deposits of three to twelve months are delivering far higher returns, yet many households have not taken advantage of this. The growth in short-term fixed deposits last year was encouraging, up 15.5 per cent, but it started from a very low base and still does not reflect the scale of the opportunity.” With inflation continuing to erode the value of cash, even a small shift from

instant-access accounts to short-term fixed options can make a meaningful difference in 2026.

com, where customers can compare and open deposit accounts with trusted European banks.

Microfixing: A Simple Way to Earn More

Once the three-month Starter Account matures, savers can withdraw their funds or move them into another competitive product on the platform.

O’Hara recommends a practical approach known as microfixing. It involves moving small portions of your savings into shortterm fixed deposits to steadily increase your returns without losing access to your money for long periods. “Irish savers could be earning hundreds of millions more each year simply by moving a portion of their cash out of overnight accounts and into shortterm fixed options,” he says. “That shift does not require long commitments or additional risk. It is simply about making your savings work harder.” As a rule of thumb, he suggests keeping the equivalent of two to three months of essential expenses in an instant-access account. Funds beyond that may be better suited to a higher-interest product, particularly when short-term rates remain attractive.

A Simple Start: The Raisin Starter Account To help new customers take their first step, Raisin Ireland offers the Starter Account, which provides 3.10 per cent AER for three months on deposits between €1 and €100,000. There are no fees, no conditions and no hidden catches. The average saver could earn up to €633 in just three months, while experiencing the difference a shortterm fixed rate can make. Everything is managed securely online through Raisin.

“With inflation still eating away at idle cash, even small changes matter,” says O’Hara. “The Starter Account is a simple, transparent way for people to see how much more their money could earn with a short-term fix. It is a great first step for anyone looking to build better savings habits in 2026.”

A New Year, A New Opportunity Whether you are preparing for retirement, supporting your family or simply aiming for more financial stability, the start of a new year is the ideal moment to revisit your savings strategy. The Raisin Starter Account offers a straightforward way to begin earning more without making long-term commitments. Take control of your savings this year. Visit Raisin.ie/st to open your Starter Account and see how much more your money could earn in just three months.

News

Irish Heart Foundation launch ‘gives a voice to heart failure patients’

Chocolate can be dangerous for dogs – here’s what owners need to know With chocolate season in full swing, Agria Ireland is reminding dog owners of the serious risks that chocolate poses to canine health. While a beloved treat for humans, chocolate contains compounds that are toxic to dogs — and understanding these dangers could save a pet’s life.

The Irish Heart Foundation has launched the National Heart Failure Patient Charter of Ireland, aimed at giving a voice to the heart failure patient community in Ireland, estimated to be 137,000 people. A patient-led initiative, the Charter has been developed by two members of the national heart and stroke charity’s heart failure patient community - the late Annette Irving from Mayo, a retired nurse, and Irish Heart Foundation Patient Champion, Sheilagh Foley from Dublin. It was launched in Merlin Park University Hospital, Galway,, with the intention of allowing the heart failure community to express their needs in terms of their care provision from healthcare professionals, policy makers, advocates and community carers in Ireland. Timeliness in care, information access, holistic patient care (including access to psychological supports), community resourced care, signposting to support services, organisations and networks and inclusion of patients in policy codesign and appraisal are all key issues highlighted in the charter. “Heart failure is a serious, long-term condition that requires the patient, medics and support systems to work together in a partnership for the rest of

the patient’s life,” said Sheilagh Foley. “The National Heart Failure Patient Charter aims to outline how best to achieve this alliance in a sustainable way.” Physical copies of the Charter will be made available to heart failure clinics and chronic disease management hubs all over Ireland, but to encourage greater accessibility and engagement, they are also available in an online print ready format at: https://irishheart.ie/ hfpatientcharter/ The inclusion of a QR code feature on the charter also allows heart failure patients all over Ireland to access information on the Irish Heart Foundation’s wide range of patient supports. These include the organisation’s Heart Connect Service, a support service offered over the phone for patients. Through Heart Connect, heart failure patients can access counselling, peer support groups, education and short-term courses as well as advocacy training. Patients can also sign up through the IHF Nurse support line on 01-6685001. For information on other patient advocacy opportunities for cardiovascular patients, visit www.irishheart.ie/ patientchampions and https://irishheart. ie/support-for-you/heart-supportservices/heart-failure-support/

Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, substances that dogs metabolise far more slowly than humans. The darker the chocolate, the higher the levels of these toxic compounds. A 10 kg dog may only tolerate up to 15g of dark chocolate before clinical signs develop, while the same dog might tolerate up to 150 g of lighter chocolate without immediate severe effects. However, consuming approximately four times these amounts can be fatal. Owners should watch for key symptoms of chocolate poisoning, which can appear within 2–4 hours of ingestion and include: • Vomiting • Abdominal pain • Increased thirst and urination • Tremors or shaking • Elevated heart rate • Excessive salivation or palpitations If a dog has eaten chocolate — especially in significant amounts — try to estimate the quantity and type ingested and contact your veterinarian immediately. Prompt veterinary intervention can include induced vomiting or administering treatments such as activated charcoal to limit toxin absorption. “Chocolate poisoning can be very serious and even life-threatening,” says Fionnán O’Sullivan, Country Manager, Agria Ireland. “Prevention starts at home — keep chocolate well out of reach and be particularly vigilant when treats are more readily available.”

Annual Turner show opens extensive 2026 National Gallery programme The National Gallery of Ireland’s popular annual exhibition of watercolours by J.M.W. Turner opened on 1 January 2026 and runs for the entire month. Turner’s work will feature alongside artists that he inspired as the Gallery welcomes back its much-loved watercolours following their loan to the National Galleries of Scotland in January 2025. The exhibition is free for all to visit, as it has been since the acquisition of the works in 1901. Turner’s work has intrigued generations of artists. Some strove to match his brilliance at capturing fleeting light effects, others worked to evoke the essence of a place through accurate representation in line and colour. In 2026, the Gallery’s annual display of the Vaughan Bequest of Turner watercolours is enriched by the inclusion of a selection of watercolours

continues to have on artists today. Prints by Irish artists Jennifer Lane (b.1952) and Niall Naessens (b.1961) show them paying homage to the great nineteenth century master. Together, these diverse works of art illustrate how Turner has always been a forceful presence, inspiring artists to create new and exciting work. and prints by artists who looked to Turner for inspiration. The English artist Hercules Brabazon Brabazon (18211906) made regular sketching trips to Europe and his colourful watercolours reflect Turner’s style and techniques. The work of Brabazon and other nineteenthcentury artists including William Callow (1812-1908), John Faulkner (18351894) and James H. Burgess (18191890) underlines the huge influence Turner had on his contemporaries, and

4 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

Turner as Inspiration

Print Gallery, National Gallery of Ireland Curator: Anne Hodge, Curator of Prints and Drawings 1st – 31st January 2026 Admission: Free Visit nationalgallery.ie for full 2026 exhibition listings or follow us on social media: Facebook & Instagram: nationalgalleryofireland X: @NGIreland LinkedIn: @National Gallery of Ireland

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Words as weapons

Aubrey Malone profiles Roddy Doyle, a writer of many parts

Roddy Doyle is a man of many parts. As well as having written eleven novels, seven plays, seven screenplays and innumerable stories for children, the King of the Expletive and former Booker Prize winner has also established, with Sean Love, the creative writing centre ‘Fighting Words’ which was the subject of a recent TV documentary. He even wrote the life story of his parents in his first non-fiction book, Rory and Ita, with their collaboration. As if all that isn’t enough, he’s co-written the autobiographies of two iconic Irish sporting stars, Kellie Harrington and Roy Keane. The collaboration with Keane led to a series of interviews between them, which segued into their ‘In Conversation’ shows. In May of this year these will be both in Belfast and in Dublin’s 3 Arena. One of Roddy’s most controversial books, The Woman Who Walked into Doors, (1996) was an explosive study of spousal abuse, giving us a brilliantly realised character in Paula Spencer. She explains the bruises her violent husband Charlo gives her as being the result of the eponymous ‘accident.’ How many women were reduced to such lies for fear of further beatings?

Roddy Doyle: It’s hard to believe it’s nearly forty years since The Commitments

Paula first made her appearance in the searing TV drama Family in 1994. She also featured in Roddy’s 2006 novel, Paula Spencer. His most recent publication, The Women Behind the Door, (Jonathan Cape) takes her story into a new direction with the arrival of her eldest daughter Nicola on her doorstep.

as ‘the Covid.’ ‘It’s only th' bleedin’ flu,’ we hear from a man in Supervalu in the frontispiece of that book. Paula is now in her late sixties. She’s living with a nice but dull man. The book employs the same staccato style as Roddy’s other books, interspersed with equally familiar cathartic moments.

Nicola has left her family. Is she going to be another Paula? How many scars does she carry from the memories of Charlo?

The continuing Paula story is clearly an area where he feels comfortable. The book returned him to the fanbase he partly lost with some of the edgier books he’s written in recent years, like The Guts, and Two Pints. The latter had Jimmy Rabbitte, who first made his appearance in The Commitments, fighting middle age and health concerns.

Roddy, as most people know, began life as a teacher in North Dublin’s suburb of Kilbarrack. This was where he engaged with the working classes that have been his raw material since. He spent the first few years of his writing career fending off charges that he wasn’t a ‘serious’ writer. Some po-faced readers could only see the expletives. The profusion of dialogue also led to many people regarding them as plays in disguise.

It’s hard to believe it’s nearly forty years since The Commitments first brought

Roddy cut his literary teeth writing plays. They were done with Paul Mercier in the

Their relationship is transmitted to us with Roddy’s familiar mix of humour and pathos. There are also prolific uses of the stream-of-consciousness mode of narration he enjoys so much. Like his last short story collection, Life without Children, it contains elements of what he refers to (like all good Northsiders?)

6 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

Roddy’s unique elliptical style to us. Since then he’s become so much a part of the national psyche we almost take him for granted. ‘I’m just a bald man with glasses,’ he says, ‘There’s a rash of them around. It’d be different if I had a Mohican.’

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Colm Meaney Passion Machine Theatre Company. He doesn’t apologise for the profusion of dialogue in his books. “People are their talk,” he said once. He’s always been entertaining talking about his books and their circumstances. ‘I was asked to speak at a screening of ‘The Commitments’ once in Amherst,’ he recalled in an early interview, ‘and only one guy turned up at the lecture. He apologised on behalf of the entire population of America.’ ‘The Commitments’ was self-published at a time when few writers were doing this. It was like the writing equivalent of going to a dating agency or a marriage bureau. Was it a sign of desperation on his part? He didn’t see it that way. ‘I sent the book to every publisher I could think of,’ he said at the time, ‘and it came back unopened.’ So they didn’t reject the book, he reasoned. They rejected the fact of someone sending them a book in the first place. That realisation made him feel less bad. He was aware he was a new voice on the horizon, someone who didn’t want to adopt the traditional De Valera definition of what constituted Irishness. He became noted for his depiction of different kinds of characters, ones who weren’t tropes, who didn’t have traditional histories. Was there a market for this? He wasn’t

The cast of The Commitments, the hugely successful film based on Roddy Doyle’s book sure. The book world of the time was characterised by sensationalism. ‘If you want to get published in London,’ he said, ‘you have a great chance if you’re a drug addict or an ex football hooligan.’ The Barrytown trilogy (‘The Commitments,’ ‘The Snapper’ and ‘The Van’) made him famous not only on the page but also in the world of cinema. Alan Parker’s direction of ‘The Commitments’ when it became a film ensured that. Parker knew he had a great script to work with. Before he called ‘Action’ for the first time he said to the cast, ‘You better be prepared for the fact that this film is going to change all of your lives.’ It did, and Roddy’s as well. The ‘establishment’ was still sniffy about him at this stage. I remember John Banville saying, ‘I don’t regard Roddy Doyle as a writer. He’s more like a social phenomenon.’ He didn’t help matters by

8 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

making pronouncements like, ‘We’ve sold the myth of Dublin as a sexy place but it’s a dreary dump most of the time.’ This was before the Celtic Tiger started to roar. He refused to be brought down by denunciations like Banville’s one. In fact he joined in them himself, making comments like, ‘I see ‘The Snapper’ as ‘Thelma and Louise’ with chips.’ It was only with the Booker Prize win for ‘Paddy Clarke Ha Ha Ha’ in 1993 that the intellectuals began to take notice of him. They didn’t think he was capable of such lyricism in his evocation of a 1960s childhood from the inside out. Afterwards came the more serious books, culminating in the ‘Last Round-Up,’ the Henry Smart trilogy of ‘A Star Called Henry,’ ‘Oh Play That Thing’ and ‘The Dead Republic.’ Roddy is now such an established figure he doesn’t have to make a case for himself anymore, or worry about who likes him and who doesn’t. He also refuses to wear the mantle of Dour Faced Scribe, even if he spends up to nine hours a day writing. His modus operandi is as unique as everything else about him. ‘I put everything in for my first draft,’ he says, ‘Then I start taking stuff out.’ It means nothing important goes AWOL, and he can still nuance his material.

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to hit the ground running the next morning. Roddy said something similar: ‘Sometimes when things are going well I back away from the desk and wander down to the shops for a bottle of milk I don’t need.’ What a long and winding road it’s been for the former English and Geography teacher with the cheeky grin. How could he ever have forseen where it would take him? The early years of his fame, he always said, were a bit weird for him. He was once asked to endorse a green Wonderbra for the World Cup. Another time he did interviews in four different countries in a week. They were all in pubs called The Dubliner. Then there was the day a woman who was compiling an anthology of letters from writers asked him could he help. When he wrote back to her to say he didn’t have a suitable one she said, ‘Can I use this one then?’

Roddy said recently that being as easily recognised as he is on the street makes it a big deal if he decides to go down to the shops for that bottle of milk he doesn’t need. Or even the one that he does need. Does he risk breaking a rhythm by leaving his desk? Is visibility a poisoned chalice in such circumstances? The last thing he wants to do is appear stand-offish. It would kill his streetwise appeal. There’s an irony in becoming famous for writing about ordinary people. You became extraordinary as a result. J.D. Salinger knew all about that after ‘A Catcher in the Rye.’ What can one do with such a problem? ‘Just roll with it,’ Roddy says. He retains a sense of boyishness about himself no matter how many years he has on the clock. (He’s now 68). No matter how thin he is on top, he feels young inside. As young, even, as when he was ‘one of the lads’ during his teaching years in Kilbarrack. That’s not to say he misses teaching. The first day out of the

classroom he felt almost guilty about being ‘allowed’ to spend the day writing. Since then it’s been like a permanent paid holiday. As the old saying goes, when you like what you’re doing you’ll never have to work again. He continues to divide the critics about his talent and that’s the way he likes it. Most of them go into ecstacies about the way he’s diversified himself over the years, speaking of him as the champion of spare, sculpted prose. Others still find it difficult to reconcile the Hard Man characters of his books with the espousal of feminist ideals we see in the Paula Spencer books, including the most recent one. Roddy is confused about people’s confusion on this score. ‘I don’t have a problem about changing a nappy,’ he said once, ‘and then going down to the pub to talk about football. I’m not a new man or an old man. I just happen to be a man.’

Roddy Doyle receiving his Booker Prize in 1993 Roddy Doyle with Roy Keane at the launch of his biography of the ex-Man United star 10 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

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Film History

HAPPY 75th BIRTHDAY QUIET MAN! By Des MacHale

John Ford, the man who invented America, and the original poster for The Quiet Man Quite incredibly, in this year 2026 we celebrate the 75th birthday of the filming of Ireland’s best known and most loved movie The Quiet Man, starring John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara and directed by the great John Ford. Ford was born John Martin Feeney in 1894 in Portland, Maine in the USA, of Galway parents, but his ancestors came from Dunfeeney near the Ceide Fields in County Mayo. He had always wanted to make a blockbuster Irish movie as a tribute to his Irish roots. In 1933, that great Irish writer Maurice Walsh published a story in an American magazine, The Saturday Evening Post and called it The Quiet Man. Ford read the story and liked it a lot—here at last was a possible basis for the Irish movie he had so long wanted to make. So he immediately bought the film rights to the story for the token sum of $10 and set about trying to raise money for the filming which he felt had to be on location in Ireland. For fifteen years he tried in vain—nobody seemed to be interested in what some called ‘this silly little Irish story’. But Ford did not give up; he had a handshake contract with the lovely Irish actress Maureen O’Hara for the principal female lead, Mary Kate Danagher, and also enlisted John ‘Duke’ Wayne to play the male lead,

Sean Thornton, for only a fraction of his normal fee. Wayne too was very anxious to make and star in The Quiet Man because he also had strong Irish roots. One of his paternal ancestors was Robert Morrison born in the Glens of Antrim in 1782, and his grandmother Maggie Brown was an Irish Catholic born in West Cork in 1848. Other actors that Ford enlisted came from his ‘stock company’ and included the Englishman Victor McLaglen to play Red Will Danagher and the delightful Barry Fitzgerald to play Michaeleen Oge Flynn, when the time came. But despite a few promising leads and near misses, the late nineteen thirties and forties came and went without the making of The Quiet Man coming any closer. But when the breakthrough came, it was from an unexpected source. Duke Wayne had made some B-western movies with Republic Pictures run by a man called Herb Yates and Wayne suggested to him that he might like to move upmarket with a top director like John Ford. Yates was not impressed by The Quiet Man story either, but was very tempted by the suggestion, and so a deal was struck. First, Wayne and O’Hara would make a sure-fire money spinning western movie for Republic to cover

12 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

any financial losses that Yates felt would inevitably result from The Quiet Man. And so Rio Grande, directed by Ford, was made in Monument Valley, shot in black and white, to cut down on cost. The film was a solid box office success, largely because of Wayne and O’Hara starring opposite each other for the first time and all agreed that there was an intense and electric chemistry between them. Herb Yates then gave his financial backing to the filming of The Quiet Man amounting to $1.75 million US dollars, a huge sum at the time, but he insisted it be made in black and white to cut down on cost. For Ford this was a huge disappointment—there could be no Emerald Isle in the movie now. But Maureen O’Hara was a friendly neighbour of the man in Hollywood who controlled the rights to Technicolour, and they persuaded Yates to change his mind. And so The Quiet Man became the first feature length film to be shot in Ireland in glorious colour and in fact when Yates saw the first rushes, he thought that there was something wrong with the filters, because nowhere could look that green naturally! John Ford was of course ecstatic and headed for Ireland in 1950 to seek out locations and make contracts with Irish

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Film History actors. Ideally, he would have liked to shoot The Quiet Man in Maurice Walsh’s native county of Kerry where the story was originally set, but he could not find there suitable accommodation big enough for the cast and crew. Eventually he settled on the lovely village of Cong on the Mayo/Galway border, containing what is now one of the world’s finest hotels, Ashford Castle. He contacted his distant cousin, Lord Killanin and Maureen O’Hara’s brother, Dublin lawyer Charles Fitzsimons and asked them to seek out the most delicious scenery in the West of Ireland for use in the film. They did a great job and did not let him down. The casting of The Quiet Man became a family affair, almost incestuous. Ford always believed that if you want to work with people you can depend on, work with family. Maureen O’Hara, the red haired Queen of Hollywood, who played the feisty Mary Kate Danagher, had two brothers in the film—James Lilburn, who played the curate Father Paul and Charles Fitzsimons, who played Hugh Forbes, the Old IRA man. Barry Fitzgerald, alias Michaeleen Oge Flynn, and Arthur Shields, who played the Reverend Cyril Playfair, were brothers, and the Connemara urchins in the film were in fact Wayne’s four children. Andrew McLaglen, one of the assistant directors, was the son of Victor McLaglen, and Webb Overlander, who played the stationmaster, was Wayne’s makeup man. Ford himself had quite a few relatives in the cast and crew—his bearded brother Frank played Old Dan Tobin, his son Pat was a stunt man and extra, his son-in-law Ken Curtis was the ballad singer Dermot Fahy and another brother Eddie O’Fearna was assistant director. The story of The Quiet Man concerns an American boxer, Sean Thornton, born in Ireland, who accidentally kills a man in the ring and returns to Ireland for a quiet life. He falls in love with the beautiful Mary Kate Danagher, but her bully of a brother refuses to grant permission for the marriage. The conflict results in the longest fist fight in movie history, lasting eight minutes, until a resolution is found after a little conspiracy between the Parish Priest, the Church of Ireland clergyman and his wife, and the wily matchmaker, Michaeleen Oge Flynn. In between, Ford shamelessly uses the beautiful scenery of the West of Ireland as a backdrop and it has been said the The Quiet Man did more for Irish tourism worldwide than any other factor. The screenplay writers, who are at the core of any film, tend to be forgotten

script and give us the fine screenplay we know and love so much today. However, Nugent retained many of Llewellyn’s lines, plots and scenarios which were of very high quality.

Maureen O'Hara, the red haired Queen of Hollywood about, and The Quiet Man is no exception. Perhaps not surprisingly, Ford did not turn first to Maurice Walsh because, great storyteller though he was, he had no experience writing for the movies. It seems he did think of using Liam O’Flaherty who had written the screenplay for Ford’s Oscar winning The Informer (1935) but he was not available. The first draft screenplay for The Quiet Man was written by Laurence Stallings who had a good track record in Hollywood but Ford was unhappy with the result. He then turned to Welshman Richard Llewellyn who had written the screenplay of another of Ford’s Oscar winning movies, How Green Was My Valley (1941). Ford instructed Llewellyn to turn Walsh’s story into a novella suitable for adaptation into a movie screenplay. The story was to be set in the Ireland of 1923 at the height of the Troubles, involving ambushes, kidnappings and the Black and Tans and had Sean Thornton coming back from America to do his bit in the fight for Irish freedom. Llewellyn did a fine job and was well paid for his trouble, but Ford suddenly changed direction. He realised that music, laughter and fun were a better basis for the movie he wanted to make and that this was the image of Ireland that he wished to portray, so he hired Frank Stanley Nugent to lighten the

14 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

Ford’s new outlook meant that The Quiet Man had now become something of a rollicking musical comedy built around a few more serious issues like land possession and Irish marriage customs. First there was the music to be chosen and Ford showed great taste in using many of the tunes he had learned at his Irish mother’s knee. But his choice of the opening music was a masterstroke— The Isle of Innisfree by Irish policeman composer Richard Farrelly. This sublime melody was reprised several times during the film and has since been recorded by dozens of singers, most notably Bing Crosby. Other lovely Irish melodies included were The Rakes of Mallow, The Kerry Dances, Galway Bay, I’ll Take You Home Again Kathleen, The Wild Colonial Boy, Mush Mush, Thomas Moore’s The Young May Moon and the final Saint Patrick’s Day. Great credit must go to the arrangements and playing of Victor Young and his orchestra who gave new life and sparkle to those old Irish tunes. Young certainly deserved an Oscar for his efforts but was not even nominated. In fact, throughout his long career he was nominated nineteen times without success. Ironically, he won the Oscar for his musical contribution to Around the World in Eighty Days, but died before it could be conferred. In every survey worldwide, The Quiet Man is always found among the top hundred films ever made and in Ireland it always tops the list, and has done so consistently for the last seventyfive years. Why is it ranked so highly and loved so much? To my mind it is like a rich Christmas cake—just look at the ingredients. The original story was by Maurice Walsh, one of the best storytellers this country has produced; the screenplay had inputs from some great writers—Stallings, Llewellyn and Nugent, with several ad libs from Ford himself; Ford , the director who won six Oscars, a feat unlikely ever to be equalled, one of the greatest directors of all time , was at the top of his form; the cast was teeming too with performance Oscar winners—Wayne who eventually won an Oscar for his part of Rooster Coogan in True Grit ( 1969 ); Maureen O’Hara who won a Lifetime Achievement Oscar in her later years; Victor McLaglen who won an Oscar for his part in The Informer (1935); Barry Fitzgerald who won an Oscar for Going My Way (1944) after uniquely being nominated in two different

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Film History categories; Mildred Natwick, as the Widow Tillane, later Oscar nominated for her role in Barefoot in the Park (1967) and Winton Hoch and Archie Stout, cinematography Oscar winners for 1952. As we have said , add to the mix the lovely music of Victor Young and the beautiful Irish scenery. Then there were the Irish Players ,as they were called ,drawn mostly from the Abbey Theatre, experienced actors who hammed it up for all they were worth. These included Eric Gorman, Eileen Crowe, Jack McGowran, Sean McClory, James Lilburn, Charles Fitzsimons, Michael O’Brian, Joseph O’Dea, and Arthur Shields. Include also local extras and bit players from Cong, Cross, The Neale and Galway City. Ford believed that every Irish person was a natural actor and gave speaking parts and significant roles to many untrained local people. These included Paddy O’Donnell, Robert Foy, John Horan, Kevin Lawless, Jim McVeigh, Jim Morrin, Joe Fair, Bill Maguire, Etta Vaughan, Paddy Clark, Joe Mellotte, Maura Coyne, Martin Thornton, Eileen Ryan, Mary Maguire, John Daly and many others. They responded enthusiastically and enhanced The Quiet Man considerably. Of course, Ford made sure they were all well rewarded financially from Herb Yates’s budget. At the Oscar ceremony in 1952, The Quiet Man received seven nominations. These were: 1. Best Picture. 2. Best Supporting actor: Victor McLaglen 3. Best Director: John Ford 4. Best Screenplay: Frank S. Nugent 5. Best Colour Cinematography: Winton Hoch and Archie Stout 6. Best Art Decoration and Best Set Decoration: John McCarthy Jr., Frank Hotaling, and Charles S. Thompson 7. Best Sound Recording: Daniel J. Bloomberg Sadly, out of seven nominations, The Quiet Man received only two Oscars. Ford quite rightly won the coveted award for best director and Hoch and Stout were honoured for their superb colour cinematography. The best picture Oscar went to Cecil B. De Mille’s now largely and justifiably forgotten The Greatest Show on Earth, but Kramer’s High Noon with Gary Cooper and Grace Kelly ran it close. Subsequent history shows that The Quiet Man was easily the best film of that year and should have taken the award. Victor McLaglen, already an Oscar

winner in 1935, was edged out by another actor of Irish descent, Anthony Quinn for his role in Viva Zapata. But perhaps as a consolation, there was a special Oscar for Merian C. Cooper, an associate producer of The Quiet Man and also famous for King Kong (1933). However, even in the nominations, there was no mention of Wayne, O’Hara, Fitzgerald or Young—shameful omissions. In an interview, Maureen O’Hara told me that there was a lot of movie politics involved at the time, but that is a story for another day. Incidentally, when I first saw The Quiet Man in a makeshift cinema in Enniscrone in County Sligo in 1953, my favourite character was Jack McGowran as the toadying Feeney, an in-joke relating to Ford’s real surname. In recent years I had the honour of cutting the tape at the opening of Pat Cohan’s pub in Cong with Tara McGowran, Jack’s beautiful actress daughter.

If you visit the picturesque village of Cong at any time of the year, you will find Quiet Man fans from all over the world there, seeking out locations and communing with their favourite movie. Gerry Collins and his family run a museum there and conduct guided tours of the locations—these are thoroughly recommended. Pat Cohan’s Pub featured in the movie though it was then merely Murphy’s grocery store, but it is now a real pub and restaurant. The nationalities that seem to love The Quiet Man the most are the Irish, North and South, Americans of course, Continental Europeans, especially the French, Spanish and also Italians, who compare it to The Taming of the Shrew. Irish emigrants to the United Kingdom, especially Scotland seem too to have a soft spot for the movie and, perhaps inexplicably, our movie is very popular with the Japanese people. The lasting and international popularity of The Quiet Man may be due to the fact that its basic theme is that of emigration and displacement—a universal dilemma. Sean Thornton was born in Ireland and went to America before returning to Ireland again. In the United States he is treated as a foreign Irishman, while in Ireland he is treated as a foreign American—he has no concrete roots or nationality and runs foul of local traditions and behaviour. John Ford experienced this feeling too growing up

16 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

in an Irish-American family in Portland Maine and maybe the movie was his way of explanation. It will be obvious to anyone who has read this far, that I am an out and out Quiet Man fanatic, or ‘Quiet Maniacs’ as we call ourselves. I have watched the film over five hundred times on video, CD, BluRay and in the cinema. Worse still, I have viewed all 200,000 individual frames which is a real eye-opener. I was the first Chairman of the Quiet Man Fan Club and it is the only movie to have such an organisation, with annual conferences. I spoke at and helped organise the first ever international academic conference on a single film at the University of Galway 2005 (Guess which film?). Naturally, it is my favourite film, the best movie ever made, and I am not alone in my opinion. John Ford was a practical joker who liked to weave mystery into his movies. For example, he included several racy lines in the Irish language in The Quiet Man which he left untranslated on the screen. But he also left a mystery which ensured that his film would be talked about for many years to come—The Whisper. In the final frames of the movie, John Ford suggests that Mary Kate whisper something into Sean Thornton’s ear as an ad lib. She refuses because it is too rude, but Ford persuades her to do so by promising that only she, Wayne and Ford himself will ever know what it was and swears them all to secrecy. When I interviewed Maureen O’Hara in the late nineties, I asked her what it was , but she refused to tell me. She even refused to leave it to me in a sealed envelope in her will. But I have cracked it and am probably the only person on the planet who knows what it is. I have told nobody, not even my good wife Anne; nor have I told anyone how I did it , because that would give the game away. But here it is in code—so get cracking on breaking the code and finding the solution. And good luck! 7, 9, 10, 14, 212, 5, 8, 10, 156, 0, 24, 6, 12, 73, 0, 2, 30, 0, 9, 8, 10, 21, 3, 20, 47, 0,1, 75, 46 Bibliography The Quiet Man and Beyond Sean Crossan and Rod Stoneman, The Liffey Press (2009) The Complete Guide to the Quiet Man Des MacHale, Appletree Press (2000) Picture The Quiet Man Des MacHale, Appletree Press (2004) A Quiet Man Miscellany Des MacHale, Atrium Cork University Press (2009)

Pneumococcal Polysaccharide Vaccine (PPV23)

If you are 65 years of age and older,

talk to your GP or Pharmacist

SEASONAL FLU VACCINE Influenza (flu) is a highly infectious acute respiratory illness caused by the flu virus. Flu affects people of all ages. In a typical flu season, up to 350 people, mainly older people, die from flu in Ireland. Flu symptoms come on suddenly with a fever, muscle aches, headache and fatigue. This is different from a cold which is a much less severe illness compared to flu. A cold usually starts gradually with a sore throat and a blocked or runny nose. Symptoms of a cold are generally mild compared to flu. Flu is unpredictable. While anyone can catch flu, some people are more at risk of getting seriously ill or needing hospital treatment. Serious breathing complications can develop, including pneumonia and bronchitis, to which older people, younger children and those with certain chronic medical conditions are particularly susceptible. Pregnant women are also at increased risk of severe complications from flu. Flu can significantly increase the risk of premature birth and even stillbirth during pregnancy. This year the seasonal (annual) flu vaccine protects against three common virus strains. The flu virus changes each year and this is why a new flu vaccine has to be given each flu season. Getting the flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself, and others from the flu. This year the free flu vaccine is recommended for you if you are in one of these groups: • People aged 60 years and over • Children aged 2-17 years (please read HSE leaflet on flu vaccine for children) • Pregnant women (please read HSE leaflet on flu vaccine for pregnancy) • People (adults and children) with long-term medical conditions such as diabetes, chronic heart conditions, liver conditions, kidney conditions and chronic lung disease including COPD, or neurological diseases • People with cancer • Children on long-term aspirin treatment • People whose immune system is impaired due to disease or treatment

48 Senior Times l November - December 2021 l www.seniortimes.ie

Vaccination should ideally be undertaken in autumn each year to be protected for the flu season. Flu vaccines have been given to millions of people worldwide and are very safe. The flu vaccine cannot give you the flu. It takes 10-14 days for the vaccine to start protecting you against flu. Flu and COVID-19 are caused by different viruses and the flu vaccine does not protect against COVID-19. Both flu and COVID-19 can cause serious illness. Everyone aged 60 years and older and anyone with certain medical conditions are also recommended a COVID-19 vaccine. If you are also recommended a COVID-19 vaccine, it is important to get both the flu vaccine and the COVID-19 vaccine. Talk to your GP (doctor) or pharmacist to find out if you are also recommended a COVID-19 vaccine. You can get the flu vaccine at the same time as the COVID-19 vaccine The flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available for free from participating GPs and Pharmacies to those within the recommended groups. More information is available from your GP practice , Public Health Nurse or Pharmacist. www.hse.ie/flu provides details about flu vaccination, along with answers to any questions you may have about flu.

PNEUMOCOCCAL VACCINE If you are over 65 or have a long term medical condition you should also ask your doctor about the pneumococcal vaccine which protects against pneumonia, if you have not previously received it. You can get the flu vaccine at the same time as the pneumococcal vaccine.

Why do you need flu vaccine? Flu isn’t just a cold

Flu can cause pneumonia and bronchitis and can make chronic health conditions worse.

Flu is serious

Up to 350 people die from ﬂu every year in Ireland.

Flu vaccine protects you

You should get the ﬂu vaccine if you: • are 60 years and older or • have a chronic health problem such as heart or lung disease or • are pregnant

Flu vaccine protects others too

You should get the ﬂu vaccine if you are a healthcare worker or a carer or if you live with someone with a chronic health condition.

Flu vaccine is f ree for people at risk

Talk to your GP (doctor) or pharmacist today about getting the ﬂu vaccine.

hse.ie/ﬂu Public Health Advice Order Code: HNI01089

Travel

In the second part of her report on ‘The New Old’ Lorna Hogg looks at ways you can maintain a healthy mind and body..

. . l u o s d n a y d o b Nourishing Have you checked your entitlements, as well as your bank account?

state, or both. Do you know what you are entitled to, in terms of benefits, fuel allowance, free travel? Have you investigated with the necessary authorities, or enquired/ applied for the issues of relevant grants etc.?

The New Old – ah, yes, yet another marketing ploy, to describe and identify the elderly. Or is it? Once, any mention of the word Old merely signified pensionable – the two were intertwined. Now, however, increasing numbers of the mature think of the term as a just return for years of hard work. Health care and expectations are helping more people to age well and do not even start to consider themselves as `mature’ until their eighth and ninth decades. Health care is also helping people age well. What these changes mean is that whether you want to see more of the world – or your family, take a new job (or create one), follow up your interests or volunteer – the times have never been better for Oldies.

Would you like to see more of family – and friends? If you have family/ contacts in the UK, why not start with a visit there? Air connections are now so widespread throughout Europe that you could easily combine a sightseeing visit to one city/area, with catching up with old pals. Remember time passes swiftly. It can be all too easy to let old connections and friendships lapse, to later bitter regrets. If you have always want to spend part of the year in a warm country, and envied those who `follow then sun’ - check your passport, or order a new one if it is out of date . Also, thoroughly check out your health insurance - it is vital to look at details of EU medical insurance cover, if you have any.

So, how can you join this new breed, exemplified by those who have to think carefully for a few moments when (the very brave!) ask their calendar age? A thorough assessment of your life is a good start. As the song goes, `Isn’t it rather nice to have friends?’ They do play a vital role, especially when family is not available, or no longer exists. Friends are also important for good health. A strong network can help avoid isolation and depression, and also open up opportunities.

The latter is vital if you do decide to live elsewhere for part of the year. Examine tax implications for any ideas on making changes and also, your health insurance cover. Will you be in easy reach of a G.P. or hospital? If you are involved in an emergency, how long would an ambulance take to reach you, and what hospital is nearest? On a gloomier note – have you made a Will, and are your funeral wishes known and noted?

So, why not get in touch with long established pals, and think about joining/forming a feisty group, whether interest based or social? The choice is considerable – start with details at your local library or online. If you are not yet fully online, this is the time to start developing your skills. As well as providing plenty of opportunities to meet and keep in touch, even if you are in an isolated area, it opens up new ideas, contacts and possibilities. Whether your interests include dogs, cooking, fashion, history, becoming an author, joining a choir or volunteering – this is the time to investigate. Ageing well.. It could also be the time to take a few tips from the adventurous young, and live `older and bolder’ . A `Life Assessment’ can help to clarify. Who and what are your supports in life – family, friends, locality? What are your energy drains? How fit are you? Would your physical – and mental health allow you to still take on some of the travel challenges you yearned for in your younger days? Could you improve your finances with some good professional advice? If even some of these apply to you - assessment could open up possibilities and challenges. It also is important to recognize your energy drains – and boosts. What could improve your life, and what needs to be done to help this happen? Where would you like to live? A change need not be a total uproot - but looking into options could open a new world. This could range from spendin part of the year abroad, sharing a home, or renting one with similarly adventurous friends? Would your health insurance requirements allow this? Much, of course, depends on your financial situation. What savings have you put by? What will be your pension – work or 20 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

You will have to practice the art of de-cluttering

However, there are also many positive possibilities. Do you want to, or have you considered selling a large home, to buy one more suited to your circumstances? One side effect of this, of course, will hasten the advantages - as well as the challenges of de-cluttering. Inevitably, some of you possessions and `stuff ’ will have to go, to allow you to fit into that new life. So, start thinking about downsizing and donating – to friends, charity shops, jumble sales etc. It can be a painful process, but it can also bring advantages. These include, obviously space, both physical and emotional, and wider opportunities in your life. It will also allow for easier home care and new options, now that you are not literally weighed down with possessions. Downsizing can also teach us all the importance of using possessions NOW, rather than keeping them for best. We also have the advantage of living in a time when people actually want to repair and re-purpose. It all works best, according to the experts, when you decide exactly how much space you will ideally need to happily live in.

Travel

The benefits of regular exercise are well proven. First, however, you will have to learn – and practice, the art of decluttering. Rather than grieve at parting from items you have known for decades, why not see it as sharing them? Those clothes, books, pieces of furniture, bric a brac and pieces of jewellery will go to new lives and homes. In their place - you will have the opportunity to do the same! That life could include making new friends, or travel. You could have the opportunity (after consultation with an accountant) to spend weeks or months, of the year in two countries. You could avoid weather you hate, and have the freedom to make new friends or interests. If you are a home body, and would miss seeing your family and friends too much if you spent time abroad? You could opt for a simpler lifestyle in a smaller home/apartment in Ireland -that could allow you to develop new hobbies and see more of old friends. Assess for success None of this, of course, could start without some hard headed assessment, both emotional and practical. Do you have any necessary family support? Who and what are your energy drains? Is your health an asset – if not, could it be, or how much planning will be needed for later years? Where practical clearing out is concerned – you will need to make some tough and cold assessments, perhaps with professional help. If you have a beloved pet, Rover or Pusskins will have to be planned for. Could you re-purpose some of your belongings? Are any of your possessions saleable? Are sentimental attachments draining on your space – and if so, could some assets be re-purposed or sold? It might be necessary to think about why you still hold on to them. Would you miss your stuff – or have you forgotten much of it? How much is it worth – in financial and emotional terms? Does anyone need it – and how can you get in contact with them? Money, money, money.. Have you checked your entitlements, as well as your bank account? Do you know your benefits – e.g. fuel payments, Free Travel, over the full scope of your pension? Do you own your home – is your mortgage paid off? Have you updated – or made, your Will? What does your Health insurance cover –important if you want to spend part of the year abroad? Do you know its full benefits and cover? Are you within easy reach of a GP and hospital – a vital point to consider when planning any moves. Who could be called in case of any emergency and how can chosen friends/staff find details on this? Have you any wishes to be carried out – funeral arrangements, disposal of belongings etc.? It's nice to have friends... It is sometimes said that friends are good predictors of the state of a person’s health, and a strong network can cut loneliness and isolation. The depressing fact that many older people living alone may not see another human for several days – let’s not even consider weeks at a time, is becoming ever more relevant in Ireland. Some research suggests that the presence of pals can have an influence on general health, and lack of them can be challenging for you. The good news is, of course, that friends can appear at any stage in life – the trick is to spot them early on. We make most of our friends in younger years – and as we grow older, our `networks’ introduce them. But even if many of your friends have dropped

It's nice to have friends... away, don’t give up—seek out addresses, and contact old friends, set up lunches. Another possibility is a classic – joining a special interest group. From stamp collecting and gardening to food, stamp collecting, caring for deserted dogs and cats, to learning languages, or volunteering . Potential friends are still everywhere. For many of us, so is Stuff –those once loved belongings, from furniture to old pictures and cutlery sets. There is no doubt about the fact that the ideal time to de-clutter is when you are planning – or even considering a move. Why not decide to sell (for charity) or prepare to re- purpose belongings for a swop? You would be astonished at the number of people who share your ambition! Why not find out where and how you can dispose of it – and make plans for what you will do with the money made? Do you have any emotional and practical support in your life, to keep up your energy and overall happiness? For many people, perhaps the less outgoing, friends are made where you live. If there are no such groups in your vicinity – why not set one up? The possibilities are endless – companionship, short trips, the group views and range of ideas on of topics, that it might be difficult to arrange as a single person. These might include the future of your much loved pet – ranging from who will take on its care after your death, through to setting up a sublet of your home, if you need to spend a time in a hospital or care home. Representatives from various bodies often give such talks – ranging for money management through to simple health care, utilizing saving schemes and making the most of your money. You can learn how to move from independence to Senior care, how to get help with legal queries, and deal with worries about the future including vulnerability to break-ins or robbery. Also, check out age related organisations – many have lists and contacts in connection with up to date local relevant .associations, plus details of helpers. So, to the final, but vital oft dodged query – what’s Old Age, anyway? A set of numbers, a feeling, a set of physical symptoms? Well, one of the latest set of definitions might surprise and reassure you – The New Old; 60-74 These can also regarded as the Young – or Younger, Old, aged between sixty and seventy four. They can expect to be generally active and self -sufficient. If they are lucky enough to have money, they can carry on with their lives and self –fulfilling activities. 75 – 84 There may be some onset of age related issues, and chronic conditions, Future medical issues can make an unwelcome appearance. However, in general, it is not unreasonable to expect good health. Old Age 85 plus At 85 plus, you may be fortunate enough to keep your normal life going, and some people do so.. However, this is also the age when problems mean that care – in your own home, or with professionals, is necessary. Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie 21

“If I can speak up for one child, it’s worthwhile.” Audrey Hepburn, UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador

From Ballet Slippers to Hollywood Lights

Audrey’s journey from hardship to hope, helping keep children’s dreams alive.

“I was in Holland during the war, during the German occupation,” she recalled. “The last winter was the worst of all. Food was scarce and whatever there was went to the troops.” Her first dream was to be a ballerina. After the war, she trained hard, but her body was too frail from the malnutrition she had endured and made it impossible for her to withstand the demands of ballet. She turned to acting and her role in Roman Holiday made her a star overnight. Films like Breakfast at Tiffany’s and My Fair Lady soon followed, cementing her as one of cinema’s brightest lights. Yet even at the height of her fame, Audrey carried the memory of being a hungry child.

Stepping away and finding purpose

Audrey stepped back from Hollywood in the late ‘60’s, moving to Switzerland to raise her sons, Sean and Luca. In 1988, she accepted the role of UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. “I can testify what UNICEF means to children,” she said, “because I was among those who received food and medical relief right after World War II… I was very, very undernourished.” Her first mission took her to Ethiopia, where she visited communities devasted by famine. She didn’t just visit quietly but used her voice and iconic status, determined to make the world listen. She gave interview after interview, sometimes fifteen in a single day. “Let us never forget those children who do not know peace, who do not know joy and do not smile,” she said. “It is for these children that I speak, children who cannot speak for themselves.”

Audrey in Ireland

Audrey travelled widely, speaking passionately about her experiences in Ethiopia. One of those trips brought her to Ireland, where in 1988 she appeared on The Late Late Show with Gay Byrne.

Audrey Hepburn’s early childhood was one of hunger and hardship. Born in 1929 she spent her early childhood in the Netherlands during World War II.

Speaking about some of the children she had met, she told Gay, “When they see UNICEF, their [children] faces light up. Because they know that something is happening.” It was a deeply moving moment for Irish viewers to see this glamorous icon speak not about film, but about famine, survival, and children’s futures. Ireland also held personal significance for Audrey. Her father, from whom she had long been estranged, lived in Dublin. Though their relationship was complicated, that connection gave her visits here a personal resonance.

Her words and her dream live on

Audrey’s life journey reminds us that dreams evolve. She began with ballet, found fame in film, and ultimately discovered her greatest fulfilment in her humanitarian work with UNICEF. Her life is a testament to the idea that it is never too late to redefine our purpose, whether to dance, to learn, to travel or to make a lasting difference in the lives of children.

Can you carry Audrey’s dream on? Audrey believed deeply that every child deserves the chance to grow, to thrive, and to dream. In her final years, her work with UNICEF was the legacy she was most proud of. Today, you can help carry her dream on. You may have a bucket list of things you still hope to do - places to see, people to reconnect with, moments to share with family. By adding a gift to UNICEF in your Will, you can add something extraordinary to that list.

22 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

You can keep the dreams of children like Milki, alive. She's pictured above with her grandmother. Her community in southern Ethiopia is being supported by UNICEF where families are learning simple techniques to cultivate drought-resistant crops to provide nutritious food for their families. Over the past 20 years, global child malnutrition has declined by a third, and under five mortality has fallen since 1990 by 61%. Progress is real, but fragile. UNICEF works with its partners across many areas including education, expanding access to vaccines, improving water and sanitation and supporting drought resistant farming initiatives. Gifts in Wills help to fund this vital work. By adding UNICEF to your bucket list, you will be helping future generations of children to survive, thrive and chase their dreams.

Start your bucket list today Gather the dreams you still hold… Save what matters for those you love. And when it feels right, help a child chase their dreams. Contact: Pauline Murphy, Legacy Gifts Manager on 01 878 3000 Or visit UNICEF.ie/legacy and sign up to receive your Bucketful of Dreams Journal and Will Planner.

Fulfil your dreams and rewrite a child’s future Visit unicef.ie/bucket

01 878 3000

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Latvia Health Promotion

Orthopaedic excellence in Latvia: advanced care, short waiting times, and a patient-centred approach Latvia has emerged as one of Northern Europe’s most reliable destinations for high-quality orthopaedic treatment. With modern facilities, internationally trained surgeons, fast accessibility, and personalised rehabilitation pathways, the country offers an outstanding alternative for patients seeking timely, effective solutions without long waiting lists. For Irish seniors, Latvia provides a reassuring blend of technical expertise, patient-friendly service, and competitive treatment packages — all within a welcoming, English-speaking environment. Below is an overview of the most sought-after orthopaedic procedures: knee and hip joint endoprosthetics, wrist and hand arthroscopy, and hallux valgus (bunion) surgery.

Patients can expect a well-organised and supportive experience throughout their joint replacement journey. Access to specialist consultations and preoperative diagnostics is fast, ensuring that treatment planning begins without delay. Modern prosthetic systems provide excellent implant longevity, while refined surgical techniques allow most patients to start walking within 24 hours. Recovery is guided closely by physiotherapists and medical staff, with clear advice for home care and rehabilitation. Many people regain independence within just a few weeks, and functional improvement continues steadily over the following months. Latvian clinics also offer shoulder joint endoprosthetics. Before the operation

Knee and hip joint endoprosthetics - A modern solution for severe joint degeneration Joint endoprosthetics replaces the damaged surfaces of the hip or knee with durable, high-precision implants designed to restore natural movement and eliminate chronic pain. Latvian clinics use the latest implant systems and minimally invasive techniques, which help ensure smaller incisions, reduced blood loss, and faster rehabilitation. When surgery is advised Patients typically benefit from surgery when: • Osteoarthritis or joint damage significantly limits everyday activity • Pain persists despite physiotherapy, medications, or injections • Walking aids become necessary for normal mobility • Imaging confirms advanced joint wear • The decision is made individually, focusing on the patient’s goals, lifestyle, and health background. 24 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

• The patient must undergo a MRSA test in his home country (from the nose, navel and groin). • It is also important to inform the medical staff in advance if the patient has diabetes, cardiovascular diseases or varicose veins. If blood clots are detected, a phlebologist consultation is required before the operation. Cluster Clinics offering this service • ORTO Clinic ■ Knee or hip replacement surgery (all included): around 7500.00 ■ In addition necessary examinations: around 300.00 • AIWA Clinic ■ Knee replacement surgery (all included): 7163.50 ■ Cemented hip replacement surgery (all included): 5391.50 ■ Cementless hip replacement surgery (all included): 7072.50 • Medical center ARS ■ Knee and shoulder replacement surgery: price calculated individually

Latvia Health Promotion

Hallux Valgus (Bunion) Surgery - restoring comfort and foot alignment

Hand and wrist conditions require exceptional accuracy. Latvian surgeons are widely recognised for their microsurgical expertise, treating complex injuries and chronic conditions with minimally invasive techniques. Arthroscopy allows surgeons to work inside the joint using tiny cameras and instruments, resulting in minimal tissue trauma and quicker recovery.

Hallux valgus deformity can lead to significant discomfort, difficulty finding suitable footwear, and reduced mobility. Latvian foot surgeons use refined, low-trauma techniques to realign the big toe, correct bone deviation, and restore healthy foot biomechanics. During the operation, the bone position is carefully adjusted and the surrounding soft tissues are balanced to achieve a natural, stable alignment that relieves pain and helps prevent the deformity from worsening. Modern surgical methods minimise tissue trauma, resulting in smaller incisions, less swelling, and a smoother, more comfortable recovery. Most patients are able to walk shortly after surgery in a protective postoperative shoe and gradually return to regular footwear over the following weeks. With proper aftercare and physiotherapy guidance, the procedure provides long-lasting relief and improved comfort, allowing patients to return to walking, exercising, and enjoying daily activities without bunion-related limitations.

Common conditions treated • Ligament injuries or cartilage damage • Chronic wrist pain after trauma • Ganglion cysts • Tendon or small joint disorders

Who benefits from surgery • Patients with persistent pain or swelling • Difficulty wearing normal shoes • Progressing deformity despite conservative measures • Reduced activity due to discomfort

Wrist arthroscopy is a modern, minimally invasive surgical technique that allows surgeons to diagnose and treat wrist joint problems with exceptional precision. Using an arthroscope, a thin instrument equipped with a camera and light, the surgeon can assess and repair damage inside the joint through tiny 0.5-1 cm incisions, avoiding the need for traditional open surgery and reducing trauma to surrounding tissues. Because the cuts are so small, scarring is minimal, postoperative discomfort is significantly reduced, and the risk of bleeding or infection is lower compared to conventional procedures. Patients typically benefit from a much faster recovery, often returning home the same day and resuming everyday activities within days or weeks, depending on the severity of the condition. Full recovery usually takes a few weeks to a couple of months.

Recovery after hallux valgus surgery is generally straightforward, with most procedures performed as day surgery, allowing patients to return home the same day. Walking is usually possible shortly after the operation using a protective postoperative shoe, which helps keep the foot stable while it heals. As swelling decreases and comfort improves, patients gradually transition back to normal footwear—typically within 6 to 12 weeks. Long-term outcomes are excellent, both cosmetically and functionally, with most people enjoying lasting relief and improved foot alignment. Throughout the healing process, patients value the personalised rehabilitation guidance and clear communication provided by their medical team, which helps ensure a smooth and confident return to everyday activities.

Wrist and Hand Arthroscopy - Precision care for delicate structures

Patients especially value the benefits that wrist arthroscopy Latvian cluster clinics also utilise the Arthrex® DrillSaw brings to everyday life: the small incisions leave minimal Highspeed 200™ system, a modern technology designed Latvia? scarring, healing is noticeably faster, and many procedures Why choose for Riga, highly precise, minimally correction of foot • Short (3 hours), direct and affordable flights frominvasive Ireland (round trip around €200) can be performed as day cases or with only a short stay in the • Lovely hotels that won’t break the bank - 4-star comfort from around €75 per night deformities. This advanced equipment allows surgeons available within 2 month time clinic. With dedicated hand therapy support, most people are •• Procedures to perform valgus and other foot procedures with Riga is the perfect hallux place to relax and recover for peace of mind able to return to light activities within just a few weeks, while • Hassle-free reducedoffers tissue trauma, helping patients experience a smoother • A little holiday on the side - explore Riga’s beautiful Old Town, relax by the sandy full recovery depends on the complexity of the condition being seaside and enjoy delicious food from Michelin's list ofrecovery recommendedperiod. restaurants! operation and a noticeably faster treated. Book a Cluster free specialistClinics consultationoffering and get answers questions! thisto your service Cluster Clinics offering this service info@healthtravellatvia.lv • Baltic Vein Clinic: 985.00 • AIWA Clinic: from 790.00 https://healthtravellatvia.lv/en/ • Microsurgery Centre of Latvia: from 2400.00 • Medical center ARS: from 620.00 • ORTO Clinic, precise care for delicate structures: 2350.00 • ORTO Clinic: 3550.00 (all included*) (all included*) Book a free specialist consultation and get answers to your * The price includes everything related to the operation, implants, questions! anesthesia, medications and materials, accommodation and 3 meals info@healthtravellatvia.lv https://healthtravellatvia.lv/en/ a day in the hospital, patient's linen, crutches, postoperative orthoses, shoes. Also included are the first steps with a physiotherapist and, after discharge from the clinic, the first individual visit to a physiotherapist, where the patient receives further recovery recommendations. The price does not include visits and examinations that take place outside the time when the patient is staying at the hospital.

Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie 25

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How can we help you? Consumer Care Our Consumer Care team can provide you with advice and information. 26 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

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Similarly, if declarer, South, is on lead and leads the ♠5 from her own han

West must not insert the ♠10. If she does then the trick will go: ♠5, ♠10,

♠Q, ♠K. Later, declarer leads the ♠4 from dummy and makes two Spade

tricks: winning Michael O’Loughlin has with the ♠A when East plays the ♠J or with the ♠8 when enjoyed teaching bridge East plays the ♠7. If West had originally played low on the ♠5 lead, for over 40 years; his declarer can only make one Spade trick with the ♠A. book, “Bridge: Basic Card Play” is The available Crux: pressure is off when playing second. Partner still has to play a from the Contract card, so Bridge the person to play third must play high regardless whether the Association of Ireland second player plays high or low. Therefore, the second person to play to (01trick 4929666), the should play a low card and preserve her high card. price: €10. (2)

Bridge

Calling all Novices – Intermediates!

♦954

Bridge by Michael O’Loughlin Bridge by Michael O’Loughlin

Leads ♦ 3

by Michael O’Loughlin

Calling all novices and intermediates

CallingSecond-Hand all novices andLow intermediates and Third-Hand High

West

North

East

♦KJ7

In (2) East is playing third after ♦3, ♦4. First of all, playing ♦7 is plain silly –

Second-Hand Low and Third-Hand High These are very useful guidelines. Here are the contents of a coupleIn of(2) typical Second-Hand Low and Third-Hand High East iswill playing third after 3, u4. First of all,insert playing declarer win a cheap trick. u I have seen players the ♦J, reasoning

tricks: u7 is plain silly – declarer will win a cheap trick. I have seen These very useful guidelines. arecontents the contents of a of typical that if partner holds the ♦Q, then the ♦J will force out the ♦A. True – but These areare very useful guidelines. HereHere are the of a couple players insert the uJ, reasoning that if partner holds the 3 ♥5 ♥Q ♥A couple of (A)typical♥tricks: tricks: whether it’s the or the K that–forces out cares the ♦A when partne uQ,who thencares the u J will force out♦Jthe uA.♦True but who (B) ♣2 ♣6 ♣K ♣3 whether it’s the u J or the u K that forces out the u A when holds the ♦Q (for then they are all equals). (A) ♥3 ♥5 ♥Q ♥A partner holds the uQ (for then they are all equals). What do you notice? When the suit is like this, however: (B) ♣2 ♣6 ♣K ♣3 In both cases the second hand play low and the third hand plays high. When the suit is like this, however: What do you notice?

What do you notice? (1) both cases second hand low the andthird the third handhigh. InIn both cases thethe second hand playplay low and hand plays plays high. (1)

♠Q94

(1)

♠ 10 6 3

West

♠ Q 9 4 North West North South

South East

♠A85

East

♠KJ72

Leads ♦ 3 Leads ♦ 3

Leads ♦ 3

♦954 North North East North East ♦ K J 7 ♦KJ7 South West South East ♦KJ7

West West

♦ QSouth 82 ♦ Q82 ♦ Q 8 2to stop the ♦Q winning. By playing the ♦K, Then, playing the ♦K is essential Then, playing the ♦K is essential to stop the ♦Q winning. By playing the ♦K, East prevents South from winning any trick in this suit. ♦from K essential stopthe the ♦Q Q winning. winning. By Then, playing the Then, playing the uK is isessential totostop u Byplaying the ♦K East prevents South winning any trick in this suit. Crux: By playing highprevents infrom thirdwinning position either you win the tricktrick or you out u K, East South from winning any inforce playing the East prevents South any trick in this suit. Crux: By playing high in third position either you win the trick or you force out higher card from declarer. thisaasuit. higher card from declarer.

Crux: By playing high in third position either you win the trick or you force

(1)Illustrates why♠the defender playingplaying second to thetotrick A 8why 5 the defender (1) Illustrates second the trick should generally a higher card from Crux: By playing highdeclarer. in third position either you win the trick should generally play low when a low card is led. In (1) above, Dealer: South card None Vul declarer. play low when a low card is led. In (1) above, South is the declarer and or you force out a higher from Dealer: South None Vul South is the declarer and North is the dummy. If the lead is in (1) Illustrates why the defender playing second to the trick should generally ♠4 is led, East, North is4the dummy. Ifbeing the lead issecond in dummy and the dummy and the ♠ is led, East, the hand to play, play low when a low card is led. In (1) above, South is the declarer and Dealer: South Vul Vul Dealer: South None None second hand to cannot play, should playanything the ♠2 (low). should playbeing the ♠the 2 (low). Declarer achieve by Declarer ♠ AQ74 North is the dummy. If the lead is in dummy and the ♠4 is led, East, ♠ AQ74 inserting the ♠8 orachieve West will win with the ♠10.the So,♠declarer cannot anything by inserting 8 or Westwill will win with the ♥ Q J 10 9 the second play, should the play♠the ♠2 (low). Declarer winbeing with the ♠A andhand thentolead towards Q, losing to the ♠K Q JA10 ♥♠ Q97 4 ♠10. So, declarer will win withthe the♠♠ A and leadthe towards the ♠Q, andcannot ♠J. Whereas, East wrongly plays thethen lead achieveifanything by inserting the ♠ 8J on or West will of win with the ♦ 863 8 6Q3 J 10 9 ♦♥ losing to the ♠Kthen and ♠ J. Whereas, East wrongly plays the ♠J on the ♠4, “to force out the ♠A", declarer winsifwith the ♠A and ♠10.from So, declarer will win with the ♠A and then lead towards the ♠Q, ♣ 10 5 dummy and if West plays the ♠ 10, then the ♠ Q is played from leads towards the ♠ 9. If West plays the ♠ 6, then the ♠ 9 is played lead of the ♠4, “to force out the ♠A", then declarer wins with the ♠A ♣ 10 5 to the ♠ and ♠J.plays Whereas, East wrongly plays the ♠trick J on for the ♦ 863 dummy. InKif both cases declarer promotes a second fromlosing dummy and West the ♠if10, then the ♠Q is Spade played ♠ 10 and leads towards the ♠9. If West plays the ♠6, then the ♠9 is played ♠ 9 6 fromlead dummy. In4,both casesout declarer promotes a second herself. of the ♠ “to force the ♠A", then declarer winsSpade with the ♠A ♠ 10 ♠ 96 10 5 ♣N N trickand forleads herself. ♥ A732 ♥ K854 towards the ♠ 9. If West plays the ♠ 6, then the ♠ 9 is played ♥ A732 ♥ K854 Similarly, if declarer, South, is on lead and leads the ♠5 from her own hand, W E Similarly, declarer, South, on Iflead 5 from West ifmust not insert the is ♠10. sheand doesleads then the the ♠ trick will go: ♠5, ♠10, her own Westdeclarer must not insert the ♠10.dummy If she does then two Spade ♠Q,hand, ♠K. Later, leads the ♠ 4 from and makes the trick will go: ♠5, ♠10, ♠Q, ♠K. Later, declarer leads the ♠4 winning with the ♠ASpade when tricks: East plays the ♠Jwith or with from tricks: dummy and makes two winning thethe ♠A♠8 when the ♠7. West played low onthe the♠♠ whenEast Eastplays plays the ♠JIfor withhad theoriginally ♠8 when East plays 7.5 lead, If West had originally played on the 5 lead, can declarer can only make onelow Spade trick♠with thedeclarer ♠A. only make one Spade trick with the ♠A.

♦♠Q9965 2 ♦ Q952 ♣♥K KJ 38 5 4 ♣ KJ3

♦ Q952

E S N S

♠ KJ8532 ♠ K J 8S5 3 2 ♣ KJ3 ♥6 ♥6 ♦ A JK7 J 8 5 3 2 AJ7 ♦♠ Crux: The pressure is off when playing second. Partner still has to play a ♣ A87 card, so the person to play third must play high regardless whether the Crux: The pressure is off when playing second. Partner still A 867 ♣♥ or low. second toSouthWest has tosecond play aplayer card, plays so thehigh person to Therefore, play third the must play person to play South North East East West North AJ7 ♦Pass West North East the trick should play athe lowsecond card and preserve highorcard. high regardless whether player playsher high low. 3♠ 1♠ SouthPass

Therefore, (2) the second person to play to the trick should play a low card and preserve her high card. ♦954

(2) Leads ♦ 3

West

North

East

♦KJ7

28 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

4♠ End Contract: 4♠ South West

♦ K♠ 10 10 4 ♦ K 10 4 ♣ Q♥ 9 6A4723 2 ♣ Q9642

♦ K 10 4

♣ Q9642

♣ A87

North

Opening Lead: u2 East

On our deal West leads the u2 versus 4♠. East must play thirdhand high uK to prevent the uJ from winning a trick. Declarer wins with the uA, draws trumps, then leads the ♥6. West must play second-hand low ♥4, East wins the ♥A, returns the u10 through the uJ and the defence go on to win two diamond tricks and, later, a club. Down one.

In (2) East is playing third after ♦3, ♦4. First of all, playing ♦7 is plain silly –

Bridge

Getting started: for Absolute Beginners Introduction to bridge To return to our example hand from the last issue:

Each playerEach counts Card Counts (Ace playertheir counts number their numberof of High High Card Counts (Ace = 4; King = 3;= 4; Queen == 2 and Jack =Jack 1). Since NorthSince and South have more points (27)have they King = 3; Queen 2 and = 1). North and South become the Declaring side. And since South has more points (14) than North more points(13),(27) become theTheDeclaring since Souththey becomes the Declarer. Declaring side side. have 27 And points in total: therefore, South (14) has to than try to win 27 ÷ 3 =(13), 9 tricks. South has more points North South becomes the The player on Declarer’s left leads the first card. Declarer. The Declaring sidea low have total: therefore, Generally, she will lead card 27 frompoints the suit inin which she has the most called her27 longest South has tocards try– to win ÷ 3suit = 9- because tricks.the suit in which she has the most cards in is potentially her best source of tricks. West decides to lead a Heart The player on Declarer’s leftsheleads card. because that is the suit has thethe mostfirst of. West decides to lead a low Heart because shelead needs a some helpcard from her partner tricks in she that Generally, she will low from thein order suit toinwinwhich suit. She starts by leading the card face down. has the most cards – called longest suit -that because suit in Then, her partner gives her her the nod to confirm she is the the correct person to lead. which she has the most cards in is potentially her best source of Now, she turns the lead face up and the second player, i.e., Declarer’s tricks. Westpartner decides to becomes lead aDummy. HeartFor because that is deal theDeclarer suit she (North), the duration of this makes decision as to which to play each time frombecause Dummy’s hand, has the most of.the West decides tocard lead a low Heart she as well as which card to play from her own hand. needs some help from her partner in order to win tricks in that suit. She starts by leading the card face down. Then, her partner gives her the nod to confirm that she is the correct person to lead.

She counts 6 top tricks i.e. tricks that she can win straight away, without giving up the lead: ♠AK, ♥AK and uAK. But where are the other 3 tricks to come from? The only possible source is the Club suit. She sees that if she gives an opponent one trick in the Club suit i.e., the ♣A then she will have set up 3 tricks in the Club suit for her side. Accordingly, as soon as she wins the first trick, she immediately sets about knocking out the ♣A. Declarer must take care to retain her ♠AK, uAK and her other top card in ♥ in order to keep control in those three suits while she goes about her business of driving out the ♣A. Then, onto the next deal: each of the 4 players takes a complete suit, shuffles and deals it. In this way plenty of practice is obtained and each time Declarer has a targeted number of tricks to aim for. The reason that each player deals a complete suit is to make sure that every player is dealt 3 three-card suits and 1 four- card suit. This ensures that the deal is played in a No-Trump situation, i.e., there is no Trump suit. At this stage I don’t want any player to have 5 or more cards in a particular because when a player has so many cards in a particular suit, they would try to ensure that that suit is nominated as the Trump suit. In the beginning I wish to ensure that the hand is played without a Trump suit in order to keep things as simple as possible.

The scoring A partnership has to make a commitment to win at least a majority of the tricks available. As there are 13 tricks available Now, she turns the lead face up and the second player, i.e., this means that a partnership must commit to winning 7 tricks No score is awarded for the first 6 tricks. Declarer’s partner (North), becomes Dummy. For the duration or more. andrewrobson.co.uk/andrew/tips_for_intermediates /www. https:/ of this deal Declarer makes the decision as to which card to play each time from Dummy’s hand, /as well as which card to play When Declarer makes or exceeds her required number of tricks – in other words, makes or exceeds her CONTRACT – then, her from her own hand. side is awarded a score. Dummy does not take any part in the play of the cards. It is For 7 Tricks: = 40 Declarer’s job, on this deal, to marshal her combined resources For 8 Tricks: 40 + 30 = 70 i.e., the cards in her own hand + those in Dummy. Declarer has For 9 Tricks: 40 + 30 + 30 = 100 declared that she is going to win 9 tricks. For 10 Tricks: 40 + 30 + 30 + 30 = 130 For 11 Tricks: 40 + 30 + 30 + 30 + 30 = 160 Dummy places all her 13 cards face up on the table. Dummy’s For 12 Tricks: 40 + 30 + 30 + 30 + 30 = 190 cards should be arranged in suits, facing Declarer. Dummy For 13 Tricks: 40 + 30 + 30 + 30 + 30 + 30 = 220 (North) arranges her cards from the highest to the lowest, in suits, in columns, facing towards her partner, South. For the Note the pattern: “40” for the first trick in addition to 6 Tricks duration of this deal Declarer (South) makes the decisions as to and “30” added on for each additional Trick. Let us call this score which card to play each time from the North hand, as well as the “Trick Score”. bridge Free bridge emails: If you wish to receive three times per week free which card to play from her own hand. me: email please quizzes, & videos lessons, include emails which has displayed her cards, This is the basic building block when playing in a No-Trump After the ♥4 has been led and Dummy michaelolough@yahoo.com Declarer should spend a little time making a plan: where are her contract. A bonus is then added on to the basic score. We will consider the bonus in the next lesson. 9 tricks going to come from? What is RealBridge?

What is RealBridge?

• See and speak to your partner and opponents - just like faceto-face bridge. • Connect with everyone at the table. Bid and play and go over the hands afterwards to learn from the post mortem. If you wish to try RealBridge for free, just email me: michaelolough@yahoo.com

- just like face-to-face • See and speak to your partner and opponents 30 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie bridge. play and go over the • Connect with everyone at the table. Bid and

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Bridge

The Bennett Murder Hand Kansas City, USA - September 1929

The Bennett murder occurred during a game of rubber bridge hosted by John and Myrtle Bennett: their friends Charles and Mayme Hoffman made up the foursome. The Bennetts – who had been sniping at each other all evening – were losing to the Hoffmans late in the evening. The breaking point occurred when John Bennett declared 4♠ and failed to make his contract. Myrtle chastised her husband for being a "bum bridge player." This caused John to slap her several times and announce his intention to leave town. Myrtle began to cry, saying "Only a cur would strike a woman in front of guests”. After an ongoing argument, John Bennett went to pack a suitcase as he told Myrtle to retrieve the handgun he typically carried on the road for protection. Myrtle walked down the hall to the bedroom of her mother, Alice Adkins. Still sobbing, Myrtle reached into a drawer with linens and pulled out his .32 Colt semi-automatic, and walked into the den. There, she brushed past Charles Hoffman and shot at John's back twice in the bathroom of the apartment. John escaped into the hallway, but fell to the floor in their living room, dead. THE HAND: The infamous Bennett Murder Hand will forever remain a mystery. None of the three survivors remembered its exact composition, and the cards themselves were sent flying during the altercation between the Bennetts, making it impossible that any of the police called to the scene would have had a chance to view it. As such, the hand widely believed to have been Mr. Bennett’s Waterloo is likely as much a fiction as the tale told by his wife on the stand. Nevertheless, a “reconstruction” of the infamous hand began to circulate in periodicals shortly after the crime:

West Mr. Hoffman ♠Q72 ♥AJ3 uAQ1092 ♣J6

North Mrs. Bennett ♠A1063 ♥1085 u4 ♣A9842

♠KJ985 ♥K762 u85 ♣K10

East Mrs. Hoffman ♠4 ♥Q94 uKJ763 ♣Q753

Mr. Bennett South Dealer: South N/S Vul South West North East 1♠ 2u 4♠ All Pass

The opening lead against this fictional hand was the ace of diamonds, followed by a shift to the jack of clubs at trick two. According to lore, after winning the king of clubs, Bennett was supposed to have misguessed the location of the trump queen and from there have gone on to establish but cut himself off from dummy’s good clubs, ending up down one. 32 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

Myrtle Bennett

Ely Culbertson, widely known as “the man who made contract Bennett bridge” wrote in The Myrtle Bridge World: “We have heard of lives depending on the play of a card and in this case, it was literally true. Mr. Bennett had The overbid his hand, murder but so kindoccurred were the durin Bennett gods of distribution that he might have saved his life had he their friends Charles and M played his cards a little Bennett: better.”

– who had been sniping at each oth

According to Culbertson the proper play would have been to the which evening. Thetwo breaking point oc establish the club suit upon to discard losing hearts. Declarer can restrict himself losing two hearts trick and one maketo his contract. Myrtle chastised diamond trick. Also, declarer has a tricky guess when it comes to caused slap tim the queen of spades. Should he playJohn for theto drop, Eighther Ever,several Nine Never or should he finesse in theto lightcry, of West’s overcall. began saying "Only a cur wo

The trial made national headlines. Myrtle and argument, her prominent John B After an ongoing attorney, James A. Reed both wept dramatically while addressing retrieve handgun typically c the judge and jury. The defence the argued that: the he Bennetts were like sweethearts and she would rather be dead than have the hall to the bedroom of her mot caused the death of her husband. When John Bennett said he drawer with and pulled was leaving town, Myrtle dutifully went linens to get the pistol that out her husband normallyThere, carried on out-of-town business trips. she brushed past Charles Ho Unfortunately, she claimed to have stumbled into a chair and of the apartment. escaped int the pistol accidentally went off. The wounded JohnJohn Bennett then tried to grab her arm to take the weapon, but the gun went off dead. again, causing the fatal wound. After 8 hours of deliberation, the jury declared Myrtle Bennett innocent of murder. It has been THE HAND: The infamous Bennett argued that Myrtle's good looks and tearful state swayed the jury into making a serious mistake. The prosecutor's John the three survivorsassistant, remembered it Hill, said, "It looks like an open season on husbands." It probably sent flying during the altercation b did not help public opinion that Myrtle thereafter qualified for a $30,000 life insurance payout. the police called to the scene woul

widely believed to have been Mr. B

She moved into obscurity soon after the trial, her name fading from headlines. She never remarried, didwife she have tale told bynorhis onchildren. the stand. N After World War II and throughout the 1950s, she worked as began to circulate in periodicals sh executive head of housekeeping at the elegant Carlyle Hotel in New York City, living alone there in an apartment. The widow Bennett later travelled the world, working for North a hotel chain, and played bridge until nearly the end of her life without any further Bennett notable incidents. She lived to the grandMrs. old age of 96. At the time of her death in 1992 her estate was valued at more than $1 million. With no direct descendants, ªA1063she left the lion's share of her money to family members of John Bennett, the husband she had killed more than six decades before. ©1085

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On Two Wheels John Feehan explores the enduring popularity of the American brand in good ole Ireland...

The Irish

attraction

Why do Harley-Davidson motorcycles continue to be so popular in Ireland?

cruising, not aggressive racing—exactly how many Irish riders of a certain vintage like to ride. Back in my early riding days coming across a bunch of Harley's on the road in front of me was a mobile chicane to be despatched as rapidly as possible. The impetuosity of youth has eroded now, and anyone still out and about on two wheels gets full respect from me. And with dodgy knees the plush comfort of a Harley saddle and riding position look inviting from afar at the moment!

If you are out and about during the summer you'll no doubt have come across large groups of Harley riders travelling in convoy, enjoying the sights and generally being happy and outgoing. No one is in a hurry, and it's all about the experience, rather than kilometer crunching. Harley-Davidson fits Ireland’s love of heritage, community, and expressive individuality—especially for leisure riding. And it's popularity persists all over the country. I decided to look for some of the reasons as to the enduring love... Heritage resonates in Ireland Ireland tends to value tradition, craftsmanship, and history, and Harley does lean hard into all three. Founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the brand’s long history, classic designs, and “old-school” feel line up well with Irish cultural tastes—similar to why vintage pubs, classic cars, and traditional music still matter so much to some.

mere transport. No two Harleys you will come across are the same - the extensive custom options from build point to aftermarket fitment are myriad.

It’s about identity, not speed Harleys aren’t popular in Ireland because they’re the fastest or most practical bikes around. They’re popular because they say something about the rider: independence, freedom and a nod to 'non-conformity'. That kind of self-expression appeals strongly, especially to riders who see biking as a lifestyle rather than just

Perfect for Irish riding styles Ireland isn’t a “long straight highway” kind of country. Instead, it’s made up of winding coastal roads and scenic countryside - ideal for shorter leisure rides on your motorcycle, thus avoiding the dreaded 'M' roads - (great for getting somewhere quickly but boring on two wheels). Harleys are great for relaxed

“It is not about going from Point A to Point B. It is about living life in the way you choose.” Mark Hans Richer (Former CMO Harley Davidson)

34 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

Strong community and club culture Harley has one of the strongest motorcycle communities in Ireland, with organised rides, charity events, owners’ groups, clubs and rallies going on all over the country at any given time. That sense of belonging matters a lot. Once a brand becomes social, it reinforces itself, and through a comprehensive and profitable licensed merchandising programme it remains well placed in the hearts and minds of it's customers. Harley-Davidson has a rich history that resonates deeply with Irish culture. The brand's motorcycles are not just machines; they represent a lifestyle and a sense of community among riders. In Ireland, the Harley-Davidson community is vibrant. The annual Irish Bike Fest in Killarney is one such event, attracting thousands of riders from all over the country and beyond. This festival showcases the passion for Harley-Davidson bikes,

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Crowds line the streets of Killarney for the annual Bike Fest featuring live music, custom bike shows, and scenic rides through the stunning Irish landscape. Celebrating 20 Years in 2026, BikeFest is a must-attend annual international festival attracting all brand motorcycle enthusiasts in their thousands from all over the world. As one of Europe’s premier free open motorcycle festivals, this 3-day motorcycle and rock music extravaganza takes place across Ireland’s June Bank Holiday weekend, May 29th – 31st 2026. American culture has strong appeal the music, movies, and road-trip imagery have been popular in Ireland for decades. Harley benefits from that: musical rock & blues associations are instant, as is the “Route 66” mythology of classic Americana, which is easily felt. It feels exotic without being unfamiliar. It’s a premium, “earned” bike In Ireland, Harleys are relatively expensive to buy and run. That actually adds to their appeal: The Buell X1 Lightning

combined a Harley engine with a sharp focus on 'European' handling.

they’re seen as a reward that is often bought later in life and are associated with stability and success. Plus the resale

value on your investment remains pretty high, making the buying decision easier. That’s why many Irish Harley riders are older and experienced, not beginners. My own Harley 'experience' is only half baked - a Buell X1 was in my biking past - a Harley engine squeezed into a short wheel base frame, built by American engineer Erik Buell. Quite a blast, I particularly remember a perfect trip through sunny Wicklow early one Saturday on the newly resurfaced (for the 1996 Irish Open at Druids Glen) R761, leaving the bike in third gear and rolling on the torque available from the 1200cc v-twin allowed full concentration on the handling and on examination of the edges of the rear tyre at journeys' end it was evidence enough of a great spin! The only long term drawback was that bits regularly dropped off the bike while moving due to the vibration it developed in motion! The Harley-Davidson range has no doubt developed and reacted to current trends and the current model line up consists of bikes suitable for touring, cruising or sports leanings, and now adventure tourers too. I came across two lads recently, on Harley Pan American adventure tourers, near Mullingar, who'd got up early and travelled from Meath to Fanad lighthouse in Donegal, then returned home via Hook Head in Wexford - they were happy out - all in the one day, proof the icons are capable and comfortable for use all day long. And typical of Harley riders they had time to chat and shoot the breeze too.

36 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

So the question at the top of the article can be answered thus: Harley-Davidson is popular in Ireland not because it’s neccessarily practical, but because it’s meaningful: a blend of heritage, community, identity, and relaxed enjoyment that fits the Irish riding culture unusually well. No motorcycle brands have been in continuous production for as long as Harley-Davidson. The longer the brand has been around, the stronger has been the loyalty of its customers. Useful Contacts: Dealers can put you in touch with clubs and owners groups in your area too. DUBLIN HARLEY-DAVIDSON Dublin, D22 W725 +353 1 4642211 www.dublinharley-davidson.com WATERFORD HARLEY-DAVIDSON Ozier Park, Poleberry, Waterford City, X91 W9KV + 35351844200 www.waterfordharleydavidson.com BELFAST HARLEY-DAVIDSON 8 Ferguson's Way Antrim, BT41 4LZ +442894466999 www.belfastharleydavidson.com IRELAND BIKEFEST Killarney, Co. Kerry +353 (0)64 6671544 info@irelandbikefest.com www.irelandbikefest.com

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Geology Our Islands

The Islands of Deenish and Scariff

Islands by the sea.. In this first article of a two-part series, Zoe Devlin delves into the history and geology of our islands

Way, way back in the mists of time, somewhere between ten and thirteen thousand years ago, Ireland was covered in a vast sheet of ice. This frozen layer was, at some stages, up to one kilometre deep and it advanced and retreated several times, eventually beginning to melt, very slowly, around 10,000 years ago. As it gradually thawed, saltwater flowed into the surrounding oceans forming much of the contours of modern Ireland. The rising sea levels steadily carved out the shape of our coastline with its inlets and bays, releasing the island from the icy grip of the previous millennia. It also exposed Ireland’s highest mountain peaks, projecting skywards through the ice sheet as severe rocky ridges known as ‘nunataks’ – one such is Ben Bulben in County Sligo.

A Seal hanging out beside the clearest of water

Not only did our island find itself liberated from this frozen state but so did a necklace of smaller islands around our shores, becoming free and standing above the level of the ocean. Achill island, off the coast of County Mayo, possibly the first to appear, its highest point, Cruachán, now reckoned to be almost 700m above sea level with An Cró Mór on the Great Blasket following sometime later, reaching 292m. Islands have always been a major source of intrigue to me. I love the feeling I get whenever I am on one, of being on a portion of the country that is separate and away from the ‘mainland’. Somehow it gives me an opportunity to look at that same ‘mainland’ from a totally different angle. Many years ago I spent a day on the uninhabited Deenish Island – Dubh Inis (Black Island) – lying close to the neighbouring Scariff, off the coast of County Kerry, and it left me with a memory that I will cherish forever. It seemed as if time stood still that day, and that I was quite literally in a different world. I could see the Kerry coastline, some four miles away, but it really felt as if it was another country and here I was, with my life on hold, and that, for the moment, all that mattered was the exploration of this island. I could shrug off the everyday problems and simply focus on where I stood. Perhaps this was a forerunner of the concept we now call ‘mindfulness’. I was on this little piece of land, completely surrounded by the mighty ocean and could only marvel at the life of those who once lived there. One old homestead on the sheltered eastern side of the island was in relatively good shape. Its roof was intact and there were some items of wooden furniture – I remember the large table and two settles. The last inhabitants had left only a few years earlier and I wondered at their frame of mind as they departed. Was it dark and sad or was there an element of optimism? 38 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

Common Scurvygrass

Bog Pimpernel

I mooched slowly around the lazy beds beside the house, dark brown ridges of soil raised between drainage trenches, evidence of their vegetable needs. I felt as if I was entering a history book about their lives while, at the same time, allowing myself to let the knots of my own everyday life unravel. I sat on the grass and watched three seals hanging in the clearest water I have ever come across – you could see right through to the sandy bottom below. The creatures even made eye contact with me before turning lazily, as one, and swimming away, their hind flippers the last thing to disappear below the surface. I combed the little runnels, marshy grooves along the spongy turf with soft mosses in shades of gold, orange and bright green blanketing their sides. Tiny pink flowers – those of Bog Pimpernel – grew in straight lines, almost as if they had been sown by human hand, where narrow rivulets of water ran down the boggy soil. It was a day I shall never forget. There was no ferry to Deenish, just a kind local fisherman who dropped me and my little family there in the morning and picked us up later that evening, but many of our islands can now be accessed more easily. One such is County Galway’s Inisbofin Inis Bó Finne (island of the white cow). This island lies about

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Our Islands

Gun Rock on Inisbofin eight kilometres away from the small harbour of Cleggan from which there are daily sailings. Once home to one and a half thousand folk, this figure dropped dramatically during the famine and is now thought to be below two hundred. However, in summer the numbers on the island swell as it becomes a haven for nature lovers - birdwatchers in particular. Inisbofin – along with neighbouring Inishark - is a designated Special Area of Conservation (SAC) because of its unique coastal lagoons, its areas of both bog and dry heath and the bird sanctuary on the north coast. Many travel to the island hoping to get a glimpse of the rare Corncrake, the shy migrant bird that flies in April from its winter home in Sub-Saharan Africa to breed in meadows along our western seaboard, its nest concealed and protected amongst the long grass and nettles. In recent years its evocative, rasping call has been heard more often than over the previous few decades, the small island now holding ten per cent of these birds in Ireland. Inisbofin’s old hay meadows are vital for the survival of this bird and this traditional habitat is managed for Corncrakes and other ground-nesting birds by cutting them just once a year, after they have bred, usually in late summer or autumn. As well as the long grasses and nettles they need, plants such as Yellow-rattle and Red Clover all help to provide vital cover. Omey – Iomaí (resting place).. is a small island not far from the County Galway village of Claddaghduff, and it has a quiet peace about it. The main inhabitants these days are rabbits with birdlife also in abundance. No ferry is needed, just some patience as you wait for the tide to recede and then either a walk or a Signs to Omey Island drive across the 300 metre stretch of pale beige sand, between guiding arrows that point out the safest route. Omey is also a Special Area of Conservation as the intertidal sandflats are important for waterfowl, especially Bogbean wintering birds such as Ringed Plover, along with flocks of Turnstone, Brent Geese and Dunlin. Fahy Lough, the shallow freshwater lake at the island’s centre is easily accessed as is Lough Namackan, a smaller lake lying north of Fahy Lough, with species-rich freshwater marsh vegetation such as the beautiful plant of bogs and canals, Bogbean. 40 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

Cromwell's Barracks on Inisbofin

Razorbills County Cork’s Dursey Island – Oileán Baoi (island of the bull) is reached neither by ferry nor across a sandy beach but by means of Ireland’s sole cable car1 - the only one in Europe to cross open seawater - which carries visitors across the narrow stretch known as Dursey Sound. The population of this small island stood at its highest in 1861 when 237 brave souls carved out a living; however in the last census there were just three inhabitants. The ruins of a signal tower that dates to the Napoleonic Wars stand on the highest part of the island and close-by is a whitewashed sign that says ‘Eire’. This was painted in order to let pilots know that they were flying over neutral Ireland during WWII. Sadly a Luftwaffe Junkers Ju 88 crashed in fog on nearby Crow Head in 1943. There were no survivors. Now the island is mainly visited by day trippers in summer. Perhaps they’re there to catch a glimpse of Choughs, those glossy black birds with scarlet legs and bills that perform their acrobatic flight across the landscape, thrilling all those lucky enough to spot them or more likely Razorbills and Guillemots. Another island that is easily accessed is Valentia – Dairbhre (oak isle) off the Kerry coast. The way onto the island is by means of either a bridge from the mainland at Portmagee or a car ferry2 that transports visitors and motor vehicles from Reenard Point, across to the small village of Knightstown. With a current population of over 650, Valentia has an interesting history. In 1857, when the population numbered over two thousand, efforts began to connect a 3,000 kilometres long cable from the far side of the Atlantic. Success didn’t come easily or swiftly and it was to be nine years and several attempts before the first practical transatlantic communication was achieved, linking Foilhommerum Bay on the south-west of the island with Heart’s Content in Newfoundland. The whole story of this remarkable feat is told through a blend of interactive and fixed displays at the Valentia Cable Station in Knightstown.

Environment Our Islands

Dalkey Island Thrift

Biting Stonecrop

For those whose interests lie more in what grows on the island, a visit to Glanleam House is most rewarding. On the north-east of the island, this is a location where sub-tropical gardens deliver the mildest microclimate in Ireland, areas which, under the influence of the Gulf Stream, are never subject to frost. Tree ferns, myrtles, camelias, bamboos are in abundance and those seeking to connect with the natural world can marvel at the native vegetation that grows outside of the garden setting. St Patrick’s Cabbage lines the narrow roadways through the island, particularly in damp areas. This is a species that is related to the garden plant – London Pride and it bears dainty pinkish-white flowers, each speckled with yellow and red dots, and small waxy leaves that look as if they were cut with a pinking shears! A true south-west of Ireland native is Irish Spurge, a handsome perennial that grows in bright green clumps in shaded hedgerows, and of course, there are those stalwarts of western roadsides, Fuchsia and Montbretia, both non-natives that came to our shores in the last century, respectively from South America and South Africa but have since become quite naturalised. Far away from Kerry, in the province of Ulster, is County Donegal’s largest inhabited island – Arranmore – Árainn Mhór which lies five kilometres from Burtonport and is served by two ferry services3. With a population that’s around 470, Ulster Irish is spoken by more than half of those living there and in summertime the numbers on the island increase as visitors arrive to attend language classes. Others come to experience the peaceful, untamed feeling of the island, with its sea caves and wide expanses of silvery sand. Birdwatchers seek out the spectacular cliffs along the Sli Arainn Mhor (Arranmore Loop Walk), part of the Bealach na Gaeltachta, a National Waymarked Way; the caves are home to avian creatures such as Puffins, Fulmars and Gannets, which form noisy colonies as they roost and nest on the rocky ledges. Also hanging on through the Atlantic gales are those hardy wildflowers – Thrift – with its pretty pink flowers and dark green leaves, and Common Scurvygrass, a white-flowered plant that has fleshy leaves, just right for surviving the salt spray and harsh conditions of its habitat. The island that is probably the closest to land is Dalkey Island - Oileán Dheilginse (Thorn island), a small (25 acre) Special Protection Area. Part of a group that includes Maiden Rock and Lamb Island, the low-lying island is just 300m away from Coliemore Harbour with a deep channel lying between them, the location of the annual fund-raising Dalkey Island swim, if the currents are favourable. At low tide, Lamb Island is connected to Dalkey Island by a series of rocks. This is an area steeped in history and archaeologists have discovered evidence which has led to a belief that the first human arrivals date from around 3,000 BCE. Objects that have survived the gales and storms are carved stone crosses and the remains of St Begnet’s church. There is also a Martello Tower together with a gun battery, part of a defence system built in the early 19th century to counter a Napoleonic invasion of the British Empire, Ireland being part of that realm at the time. The natural world is well represented by birdlife with both the Common Tern and the Arctic Tern nesting on the island and its surrounding rocks and islets. Both species are delightful to watch, having narrow wings and forked tails, silhouettes that have given the Common Tern the name of Sea Swallow. These birds are

Fulmar (above left), Gannet (above right), Cormorant (below) summer visitors to our shores, the Common Terns flying all the way from south-western Africa, whereas the Arctic Terns migrate from the faraway Antarctic. A third member of the family – and the rarest – is the Roseate Tern, a species that is closely monitored by Birdwatch Ireland4 who have created a special breeding programme at this location. Other birds commonly found on the islands are Oystercatchers, Herring Gulls and Great Black-backed Gulls with Turnstones, doing what their names suggest and galloping along the seashore, their legs just a blur. In autumn and winter, Cormorants, Curlew and Shags roost on the island for the night, in the company of other inhabitants – goats and rabbits. In the surrounding clear blue waters, there is a colony of seals. Plants on the low-lying island have a battle with the often harsh maritime elements but there are a few rarities such as Sea Stork’sbill, itself a very small plant that hugs the ground, the attractive yellow-flowered Biting Stonecrop and also Western Clover, a species that has a marked preference for dry, coastal ground and is only ever to be found within 100 metres of the sea. Access to the island is by a short boat trip from Coliemore Harbour and there are also cruises around the island from Dún Laoghaire5 from April to September. If you are lucky you may see a pod of bottlenose dolphins accompanying the boat on its voyage.

1 https://www.corkcoco.ie/en/visitor/dursey-island-cable-car 2 https://www.valentiaferry.com/ 3 https://arranmoreferry.com/ 4 https://birdwatchireland.ie/birds/roseate-tern/ 5 https://dublinbaycruises.com/book-now/

Credits omitted in Issue 138 Niall Hatch image : Peregrine Falcon : Peregrine Falcon : credit Jim Wilson credit Colum Clarke credit John Carey Birdwatch Ireland Birdwatch Ireland Birdwatch Ireland

Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie 41

Genealogy

You Don’t Need to Be an Expert to Trace Your Family History A beginner’s guide for starting later in life by Kayleigh Bealin One of the most common things people say to me when they discover what I do for a living is, “I’d love to look into my family history, but I wouldn’t know where to start.” Closely followed by, “I’m not great with computers,” or “I’m worried I left it too late.” Let me be clear from the outset: you do not need to be an expert to trace your family history, and it is never too late to begin. In fact, many of the clients I work with are starting their research during their retirement, a time when family history often becomes most meaningful (and time to indulge in investigating becomes more available!) Why People Start Looking Back For many people, the questions begin quietly. They might arise after the loss of a parent or sibling, when you realise just how much knowledge lived in one person’s head. They might come when retirement brings a little more time to reflect, or when grandchildren arrive and you feel a pull to pass something meaningful on. Most of us grew up with bits of family history woven into everyday conversation; a name here, a story there, a place mentioned without explanation. When we begin to ask questions and

look more closely, we often find there is much more beneath the surface. Family history is not just about building an impressive family tree, it is about understanding lives lived; the work people did, the places they called home, the hardships they faced, and the choices they made. Start With What You Know (and Who You Know) The best place to begin is not online. It is with yourself and the people around you. It is vital to start by writing down what you know: your own details, your parents’ names, dates and places if you have them, and anything you remember about your grandparents. If you don’t know birth years for ancestors, try working backwards from roughly when they passed away and how old you think they were at the time. Once you have recorded your memories, turn to any family members or close friends who may have further details on your family. Ask simple questions about each family member/ancestor: Where did they live?

42 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

What kind of work did they do? How do I remember them dressing? Did any of their siblings/cousins move across the Country or emigrate? Were there farms, shops, houses or other locations tied to the family? Do not worry about getting everything “right”. Even a vague recollection of a name, parish, or occupation can later unlock entire branches of a family - and sometimes the “incorrect” information can be a clue to a deeper story. What You Might Already Have at Home Before searching online or visiting the archives, take a look around your house, or contact family members who may hold the family records (if they survive). Photographs, memorial (funeral) cards, old letters, communion/birth certificates, marriage certificates, passports, and even the backs of photographs can all contain valuable information. Misspellings and incorrect dates are very common in Irish material, so do not be put off if things do not immediately match. Make note of records even if you don’t recognise the names on them, your later

Genealogy

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

research may uncover links to wider family members you had forgotten or didn’t know.

While anyone can begin their family history, many people reach a point where they feel stuck or unsure. Old handwriting, conflicting records, or missing information can quickly become overwhelming.

Irish Records: What to Expect Genealogy in Ireland is rich and fascinating, but can often be frustrating to tackle. We have access to a huge range of material, but facing missing/destroyed records can knock you off course and feel discouraging - this of course doesn’t need to be the case! Some of the records we do have access to in Ireland which will be the backbone of your research, are: Civil Records: Births, Marriages and Deaths (Births over 100 years old, Marriages over 75 years old and Deaths over 50 years old). Church Records: Baptisms, Marriages and (less often) Deaths. Every Religion and Parish differs when it comes to record completeness, but fantastic guides to what exists are freely available online. Census Records: The 1901 and 1911 Census records for the island of Ireland are fully searchable online for free, along with what survives (note that this is very limited) of the 1821, 1831, 1841 and 1851 Census’. This April (2026), we will gain

free online access to the 1926 Census of the Irish Free State. Land Records: The Tithe Applotment Books and Griffith’s Valuation are two land tax record sets covering the 18201830’s and 1840-1860’s respectively. These records record heads of households for agricultural holdings (Tithe) and heads of households for land and property (Griffith’s), making them vital substitutes for our missing early Census records. Another tool we have to help us is DNA testing, with a huge cohort of Irish and Irish diaspora test takers creating a large pool of matches we can work with to connect up our family trees. DNA research can be intimidating, and I would always recommend reaching out to me if you are cautious of where and how to start using this technique.

This is where professional guidance can make a real difference. Sometimes a single conversation is enough to clarify what you have, what may be missing, and where to focus next. I have spent many years working with Irish records and archives, helping families at home and abroad make sense of their past in an exciting, ethical, and carefully considered way. Visit Me at the 50 Plus Show If this article has sparked your curiosity, I would be delighted to meet you at the 50 Plus Show in Dublin on March 12th and 13th. I will be there chatting to visitors, speaking on this topic, and helping those like you to begin their family history journey! Kayleigh Bealin can be contacted at: Website: www.theirishgenealogist.com Email: contact@theirishgenealogist.com

Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie 43

Artificial Intelligence

Hearing Older Adults’ thoughts on Artificial Intelligence: ‘Age-Friendly AI’ Concludes Year One with an interactive Workshop in Dublin

The national Age-Friendly AI initiative led by TU Dublin and the Research Ireland ADAPT Centre, which is dedicated to making Artificial Intelligence (AI) accessible and relevant for older adults across Ireland, successfully concluded its first year with an interactive discussion workshop in Dublin. The event, which took place at the Wood Quay Venue in Dublin on Wednesday, December 3rd, focused on people’s hopes and concerns about AI and explored ideas on developing AI training tailored for older adults. Participants at the workshop had an opportunity to try out engaging, interactive AI demonstrations, including: 'Spirit of Radio' AI-powered vintage radio and the ADAPT Centre's pop-up "Art or AI?" exhibition where attendees were challenged to tell if an artwork was created by a human artist or generated by AI. Participants generally see the benefits of the technology, particularly in healthcare and the potential for AI-powered assistive technologies that can help people live independently for longer. However, attendees have also voiced genuine concerns including the

security risks and data privacy, as well as the risk of AI being used to spread misinformation.This discussion event marked the end of a year of dialogue focused on AI in the lives of older people. A key part of this dialogue phase of the project has been hearing directly from older adults about how AI is impacting their day-to-day lives. The 'Age-Friendly AI' initiative is now entering its second year. The project team will partner with Age-Friendly Ireland, Libraries Ireland and other agefocused organisations to take the insights gathered from these discussions and develop a tailored, accessible AI literacy programme specifically designed with and for older adults. The programme will feature training materials, presentations, videos from prominent Irish AI experts, and hands-on, interactive AI demonstrations and is scheduled to roll out across public libraries and community hubs nationwide in 2026. The insights will also inform an Expert Report and feed into the broader ADAPT #DiscussAI campaign highlighting older people's views on the role of AI in their lives and offering recommendations to address the opportunities, threats and ideas shared by the participants.

44 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

Paula Kelly, Project Lead for AgeFriendly AI, commented: “The enthusiasm and engagement from older adults at our Age-Friendly AI regional discussion events throughout the year demonstrates why the voices of older adults must be included in a national conversation around AI and its societal impact. Their lived experiences provide an essential compass for how AI-driven technologies, products and services should be developed and regulated for the public good”. About the Age-Friendly AI Initiative: ‘Age-Friendly AI’ is a two-year national project, led by TU Dublin and the ADAPT Centre and supported by agefocused organisations. It is funded by Taighde Éireann - Research Ireland's Discover Programme. Its mission is to bridge the AI knowledge gap, ensure digital inclusion and guarantee that the experiences and opinions of older adults are taken into consideration in shaping the future of AI driven technology, products and services. Find more information on the project website by going to: https://agefriendlyai.ie/

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Books

Freezing Fable Colette Sheridan talks to Geraldine Osborne who has just published her book detailing her experiences with her family in the Arctic What possessed a mother of three young children to uproot the family and live for a year in one of the most isolated parts of the world? In 1989, Geraldine Osborne, who was a locum GP in Castletownbere, her artist husband Danny Osborne as well as five year old Tempy, two year old Orla and baby Oisin, took off to live in the tiny Inuit settlement of Grise Fiord in the northernmost community of Canada. Over one thousand kilometres above the Arctic Circle, it is extremely cold in winter, below -40 degrees and it’s in complete darkness for about three months of the year. On top of such inhospitable conditions, Danny had to train their dog team to prepare for a perilous dog-sledge journey across the frozen sea to retrace the route of the last Inuit migration to Greenland. Geraldine, who has written a fascinating book about the whole experience entitled ‘Somewhere Cold,’ says it was really Danny’s idea to go to the Arctic. But she always felt she would make the journey one day. “Life is short,” said Danny. This goaded Geraldine into making the decision to go. And Danny had experience of the Arctic having spent three months there in 1981 as part of a three man team making up the first Irish arctic expedition which resulted in an art exhibition by him and an RTE Radio documentary. Danny first went to the Arctic in 1977 where he painted.

The couple had gone on trips to South America and the Tibetan Himalayas but left the children in the care of relatives. “We could actually take the children to the Arctic and the trip was very much designed around them,” says Geraldine. “I was really excited about it. While I didn’t have a fear that anything terrible would happen to them, I did fear that it might be too hard on them, too cold, too miserable. But it worked out fine.

Making ourselves at home! However, we couldn’t make the journey of the last Inuit migration to Greenland because of climate change. That caused the sea ice to open on our planned route. The ice (in 1989) was particularly low.

46 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

Orla watches Danny cut up a seal We set off but hunters told us the ice had moved out so we had to change our plan. We ended up doing a lot of trips.” When the children were in the sledge, the hypnotic movement of it made them sleep on the journeys across the snowcovered terrain. “As a result, they were hyper alert at night while we were very tired.”

Geraldine admits she found the winter in the High Arctic difficult whereas the children didn’t mind it at all. The lack of light resulted in Geraldine suffering SAD (seasonal affective disorder). “I was irritable and tired. Your whole 24 hour clock was reset.

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Books But once the light came back, we did lots of outdoor things like camping and just being outside. Once the spring and summer came, it was fabulous.” The family didn’t hire guides as that would have been expensive. “The trip took a lot of organisation. We had to do a lot of research and preparation. I had to put a lot of faith in Danny because he had experience of the Arctic.” Resourcefulness was all part of the life-changing experience. Danny had to build a sledge driven by the dogs he had trained. Geraldine had to make an amauti (a special baby sling worn on the back of the mother). She also made warm clothes for the family. And she wrote articles about her experience for the Sunday Tribune, sent by fax and accompanied by photographs. While most people in their community used skidoos (snow mobiles), Geraldine and Danny wanted a traditional Inuit life. The people they encountered “were quite intrigued by us and very generous.” Geraldine found the Inuit people initially reserved but once barriers were broken down, they became friends for life. “We ate a lot of ‘country food’ which are the traditional foods of the Inuit. It’s very nutritious and cheap. Seal is very good for you and very bloody. I’m sure it’s full of iron. It has the texture of beef but is very strongly fishy tasting. I wasn’t too fond of it but we did eat it. We ate caribou and musk ox also.” Seal keeps hunters warm. “When a seal is shot in the frozen dark winter...the hunter pours water into the mouth of the dead animal, as a peace offering to its spirit,” writes Geraldine. Most people, apart from the elders, spoke English. Geraldine was interested in the stories of the older folk and would converse with them with the help of translators. The dogs that Danny trained were working dogs and definitely not pets. “I was pretty vigilant all the time that the children didn’t go near the dogs. They’re dangerous to children. But it wasn’t a big worry. I just watched and the children didn’t bother the dogs.” Life in West Cork got in the way of Geraldine writing the book when she returned. Between her demanding job as a doctor and looking after the children, she put aside the four chapters she initially wrote.

Our house on the beach

Twilight - dogs tied in front of the settlement

“It wasn’t until I retired two-and-a-half years ago that I took out the book again. I always knew I would write it. I had lots of notes and Danny kept a very good journal when he was out with the dogs in the Arctic. There was a lot of material to dip into. I had very vivid memories of the whole year. It was probably the most exciting trip we’ve ever made.”

Government of Nunavut. She spent ten years working there. It was “a challenging yet rewarding job that deepened my understanding of the problems faced by the indigenous population adjusting to being part of a bigger capitalist society with different goals and values. But the Inuit have always been resourceful and adaptable, and having their own selfgovernment goes a long way towards resolving these problems,” writes Geraldine.

Social life was informal. In small Inuit communities, “invitations to visit are rarely issued. It is expected that you call on homes whenever you wish, and formalities such as knocking on the door are discarded – just walk in and help yourself to food, don’t wait to be asked.”

Danny, whose best known work is the Oscar Wilde monument in Dublin’s Merrion Square, illustrated the book. His photographs and those of Geraldine are also reproduced in it.

Learning by listening and by observation is how youngsters train to survive in the harsh environment. “Watching and doing with an adult is valuable for teaching children in the southern world too, I reminded myself. But, in our fast paced lives with both parents working, it’s not easy to have that time for our children. I certainly didn’t when I worked full-time, but Danny being the home parent filled that gap for me, although I often missed the experience.”

The late Manchán Magan loved the book and wrote: “Here is a work of rare honesty and subtlety – a meditation on solitude, survival, and the wild grace of remote places. Geraldine Osborne’s words are anchored in lived experience, yet they reach far beyond the specifics of her own story to speak of the universal human need for connection with the land. ‘Somewhere Cold’ is at once tender and unflinching; it reminds us how vast, complex and precious our world is.”

In the Arctic, Geraldine said that young children are with their mothers all the time, tucked up in the amauti on their backs even while the mother worked at the checkout in the Co-op or in an office. Every woman wore an amauti carrying a young child in Grise Fiord.

It is a compelling mix of travel, memoir, nature and cultural observation. Perfect for armchair travellers who can only marvel at the sense of adventure of the Osbornes.

Such is the draw of the Arctic that years later, Geraldine brought most of the family back, this time to Iqulait, the capital city of the Canadian territory of Nunavut in the Arctic Circle. Geraldine successfully applied for a job as assistant chief medical officer of health for the

48 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

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Western Ways George Keegan reports on happenings in and around the West and South West Visitors to Glen Keen Farm

Catherine O’Grady- Powers and her husband Jim outside Glen Keen Farm

m r a F n ee K Glen

a successful husband and wife enterprise

Just 10km from the town of Louisburg in South West Mayo Catherine O’Grady- Powers and her husband Jim operate one of the largest sheep farms in the country, covering some 1600 acres which has been designated as a special area of conservation by the EU. Not only is this a working farm but over the years the couple and their family have developed it into a tourism venture welcoming large numbers of visitors each year. Catherine worked for several years in the airline business mostly in the UK. She met Jim who hails from the United States during her time in London and as she puts it “we had a transatlantic relationship”. They married in 1999 and lived in the US for 2 years. The idea of moving back to Ireland was always a strong one and at the time help was required to keep the farm going. The decision was taken and a considerable financial investment made. However the timing wasn’t perfect as it coincided with the collapse of the wool market, so financially it became difficult. Then in 2004 a German family touring in a campervan enquired if they might park overnight on their land. The tourists subsequently raved about the beautiful landscape surrounding the farm so thanks to that family a tourism idea was born. Next up was obtaining permission to build a visitor centre and following discussions with the relevant authorities, permission was granted and a local contractor set to work. Catherine says that from day one local people were very supportive of the plan and this has continued to be the case. 50 Senior Times | January - February 2026 ||www.seniortimes.ie www.seniortimes.ie

It was decided to concentrate on the International market and a trial tour was set up with CIE Tours International which proved to be a great success. During the 2015 season two buses a week visited the farm and this increased to three weekly. Then Covid hit and everything closed down. “It was a terrible blow especially with the heavy investment which was made, but fortunately we had the farm to fall back on”, Catherine told me. She also says they consider themselves as caretakers of the family farm so selling up was never an option. Eventually tourism returned and the business began to grow once again. Catherine and Jim offer an authentic experience of what sheep farming is all about and much more. As well as hosting visitors from overseas, tours are very popular with Active Retirement Groups from around the country. Visits in general take about two hours. During that time they meet the farm collie and enjoy watching sheep herding with whistle and voice commands, talks about sheep farming in Ireland including the time of the famine and experience turf cutting on the peatlands. Afterwards in the Visitor Centre where there is a large tearooms and craft shop, Irish coffee making, scone making and other private cooking experiences can be enjoyed. There is a total of 12 different packages available for visitors to choose between and these can be flexible, catering for each customer’s needs. Traditional Irish music and dancing sessions are also held featuring highly talented local musicians – one of whom is their 10 years old son, James.

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Catherine and Jim offer an authentic experience of what sheep farming is all about and much more For over seven years now Glen Keen farm has been fostering a continuing growth of business ties with China. Catherine paid her first visit (Shanghai) in 2017 as part of a delegation and is full of praise not only of the welcome received but also the genuine interest shown about Ireland, its culture and heritage. The Glen Keen Farm story is all about dedication and perseverance and did I mention hard work? Catherine on her second trip was invited as one of the Irish delegates to attend the second International week of Intangible Cultural Heritage in China last autumn, hosted by Beijing. Organised jointly by the Ministry of Culture & Tourism of China with the Beijing Municipal Government the event drew over 100,000 visitors plus 500 separate media outlets. From an Irish point of view it was an outstanding success, as the

delegation including musicians drew large crowds of interested onlookers throughout the week. An evening of music, poetry, sport and craftsmanship was also held with 80 guests attending including diplomats, government officials and cultural figures. A highlight of the evening was a performance by 13 years old Setana McCarthy of ‘Danny Boy’ on the Chinese erhu, a double stringed Chinese fiddle, together with Irish instruments. It was described as a powerful symbol of cultural history. Catherine took the opportunity to highlight all things good in Mayo including the regions outstanding accommodation, mentioning places such as the Delphi Estate & Fishing Lodge where King Charles stayed on one occasion, the Historic Ashford Castle and the timeless charm of Westport House Estate soon to have a brand new luxury hotel.

New rail extension links Athenry to Claremorris There was great delight around the Mayo region at the announcement in November that the Western Rail Corridor is to be extended between Athenry (Galway) and Claremorris, certainly a boost for tourism. The Minister of State of the Dept of Transport, with responsibility for rail Seán Canney TD, stated that the necessary steps will be taken to progress the project as quickly as possible.

Claremorris, Co Mayo, to be linked to Athenry, Co Galway via the Western Rail Corridor

This will be part of the National Development plan and funding has been made available. Work is therefore expected to commence in the next 18 months. Clearance of the line is expected to start this year. There was also a commitment made that the next phase from Claremorris to Sligo will now be examined.

52 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

Western Ways

Barryscourt Castle a major addition to Cork cultural tourism

The newly re-opened Barryscourt Castle Last summer the re-opening of Barryscourt Castle and one of this country’s finest Tower Houses was a very important day for cultural tourism in County Cork. It is situated very close to the town of Carrigtwohill Hill. The castle had been closed to the public since 2016. The conservation programme was led by the Office of Public Works (OPW) and the official opening was attended by An Taoiseach Micheál Martin, who of course is a proud native of that county. Among the important works carried out were major fabric repairs, environmental improvements, a full mechanical and electrical upgrade plus renewed interpretation. While most of the restoring is now complete some further work requires to be carried out during the early part of this year. This castle was the seat of the Anglo/Norman Barry family between the 12th & 17th centuries and contains as I have said one of the largest Tower Houses in Ireland, but also one of the best Bawn walls still intact.

Following last year’s opening there was a full programme of guided tours, talks and several heritage events. The season concluded at the end of August attracting over 20,000 visitors and a castle spokesperson told me the feedback was overwhelmingly positive, particularly in relation to the quality of the conservation work carried out, the presentation of both Castle & Tower House and the renewed orchard and grounds. Plans for this year’s season are well under way and Barryscourt Castle is scheduled to re-open to visitors in a month or so. There will be a combination of open exhibition access on the ground floor, plus guided access to the upper levels. The OPW also intends to expand the events and education programme with a special focus on local heritage, traditional skills demonstrations and also increased opportunities for community partnership events. At time of going to press opening times and admission charges for 2026 have not been confirmed. Barryscourt Castle during its recent renovation

53 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

Dublin Dossier Pat Keenan reports on happenings in and around the capital

Me, priests, nuns, brothers, Frank Duff and St Vitalus of Gaza

From cradle to early teens I grew up in the Dublin north coastal village of Baldoyle From cradle to early teens I grew up in the Dublin north coastal village of Baldoyle. I remember my mother had a small photo snap of my pram outside the door of our cottage in Parochial Avenue. It was the end house in an avenue that comprised 16 attached cottages, 8 on each side, that led up to a large and imposing Parochial House where the Parish Priest lived. Today that house contains business offices. Back in the early 1940s my pram was in front of a tall grey wall behind which stretched the land and properties of the Irish Christian Brothers, where future Brothers completed their second level studies and where in time they would returned to retirement and finally, the large cemetery where they would be buried. In the years to come I was educated in one of their schools. I would serve as an alter boy for that same Parish Priest, kneeing behind a man conceited enough to attempt, badly, to dye his grey hair black. and behind the Parochial House, a massive square of land owned by the nuns, the so called 'Sisters of Charity.' Snug in my pram I didn't yet know that my Aunt Bella was already locked away in one of their Magdalene Laundries, for the sin of giving birth outside of marriage. (See my previous item on this in Dublin Dossier Issue 110 Mar./Apr.2021)

This in an Ireland that banned contraception and nurtured judgemental religious accusations on families with an unmarried pregnant girls. I would in time realise that my little pram was smack in the middle of a Catholic ghetto. Not anymore, Baldoyle is free, the nuns have gone, the Brothers too and the priesthood dwindles. This little rant, while acknowledging there had to be some good in all of these God fearing people, was inflamed by an article that included Frank Duff, a Dubliner, born at 97 Phibsboro Road and the founder of the Legion of Mary, a man who strangely, went up in my estimation, when he came up with a more thoughtful solution to his religion's fixation with unmarried mothers. Duff actually defied the Archbishops of Dublin, with his outreach to the prostitutes in "Monto", at the time, Dublin's thriving hub for prostitution and late-night drinking and named after Montgomery Street, nowadays Foley Street. Both Archbishops of Dublin, Edward Joseph Byrne and John Charles McQuaid, favoured the nuns Magdalene Laundries workhouses solution, of locking unwed mothers away for life and taking their babies to sell to rich Catholic families. Duff was devoutly religious but he defied the usual consensus in Ireland at that time by helping women, in or out of wedlock, to

54 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

Frank Duff, founder of the Legion of Mary keep and raise their children instead of giving them away for sale or adoption, and sought to provide accommodation for them and their children. Many were so poor, couldn't work and look after their children. So for many the only alternative was prostitution. For this good work the Archbishops attempted to restrict Duff 's new Legion of Mary, even banned his discussion groups. The Bishops even sought to censor his Legion of Mary's activities and publications. But Duff was also an influential civil servant who the middle of the Civil War managed to influence WT Cosgrave, the then minister for local

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Dublin Dossier government to provide accommodation for homeless unmarried women WT Cosgrave also gave Duff a premises at 76 Harcourt Street free of rent and taxes. The previous owner was Batt O’Connor, a builder and friend of Michael Collins. Cosgrave later also gave a building used by North Dublin Union as place for homeless men. It became The Morning Star was opened in the presence of President Cosgrave. In 1930, the Regina Coeli, a hostel for homeless women and their children, opened beside the Morning Star. Both hostels, were served by voluntary workers, members of the Legion of Mary. In !931 Duff was received in audience by Pope Pius X1, years before he was received recognition by his own archbishop in Dublin. Over time, the Legion of Mary went on to major international recognition. Duff in 1965 was invited to attend the Second Vatican Council as a lay observer. Frank Duff was known to be a believer of Saint Vitalis of the Monastery of Seridus near Gaza in the mid-6th century. At the age 60, during the episcopate of Patriarch John the Merciful (609–616), Vitalis felt called to leave the monastery and travel to Alexandria, a bustling port city rife with moral challenges, to address the plight of women trapped in prostitution. There he worked by day and used his earnings to hire prostitutes, and by prayer and scriptural readings urged their repentance and to avoid any scandals he urged them to secrecy. Often effective, leading many women to enter monasteries, others married and some found other work. Despite much criticism from clergy and laity, an investigation found him to be 'pure of intention'. He died in 625 AD from injuries received from a man who misunderstood his visits to brothels. He is venerated as a saint by Roman Catholics on January 11, and by Eastern Orthodox Churches on April 22 and January 11. St Vitalis of Gaza

What’s in a name?

Herzog Park, Rathgar, Dublin and Chaim Herzog A proposal to dename Herzog Park in Rathgar was due to take place at a meeting of Dublin City councillors in early December. On a count forecast the councillors were set to vote on the plan with a majority in favour. The ensuing controversy caused the Taoiseach Micheál Martin to wade in saying the councils actions were “divisive and wrong, and should be withdrawn”. The council then announced the vote has been suspended. That whole Dublin City Council procedure had started as far back as last June and it came to nothing. Turns out that under 2011 legislation, a consultation and ballot is required to

change a placename and these legislative procedures had not been understood or followed.

republican cause during the War of Independence and was a fluent Irish speaker.

The public park was named in 1995 in honour of Chaim Herzog, Israel’s president from 1983 to 1993, Although born in Belfast, the son of Rabbi Yitzhak HaLevi Herzog, Ireland’s first chief rabbi from 1919 to 1937, Chaim Herzog spent most of his early childhood in Dublin. He was just nine months old when the family relocated to Dublin and from 1919 they lived at 33 Bloomfield Avenue, Portobello.

He was raised as an Orthodox Jew and attended a traditional Jewish cheder (primary school) at Stratford College on the junction of Zion Road and Orwell Road. It's the only Jewish school in Ireland. He celebrated his bar mitzvah in the Adelaide Road synagogue and continued his education at Wesley College in Ballinteer. Rathgar has long been at the centre of Jewish life in Dublin. Also beside the park is the Jewish Representative Council of Ireland at Herzog House.

His father gave his full support to the

56 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

Dublin Dossier

When there was Turkish Baths on Bachelors Walk

Alison Healy had an interesting piece in a recent Irish Times 'An Irishwoman’s Diary' of a hot and cold sea-water Turkish Baths on Bachelors Walk opened in 1771 by an impressively turbaned Dr Achmet Borumborad. Seemingly he already a Turkish Baths in Finglas. Achmet claimed to have been from Constantinople but he was actually plain Patrick Joyce from Kilkenny and is said to have spent some time in what is now Izmir, a city on Turkey’s Aegean coast. There are no longer any Turkish baths in Dublin. The largest and most elaborate was the one at Lincoln Place. It opened in February 1860. It was large with separate bathing areas for men and women and even included a area for horses and other animals. It was topped by its most prominent feature, a 50 foot high ogee-shaped dome and was referred to by Leopold Bloom in James Joyce's Ulysses as "the mosque of the baths" It was demolished in 1970.

McQaid’s grandiose plan to build a cathedral in Merrion Square

John Charles McQuaid, perhaps the most flawed and pompous Archbishop of Dublin, had planned in 1940 to build a monstrous cathedral on Dublin’s Merrion Square There was a grandiose plan to build Catholic cathedral in the city. However times have changed, church going has dwindled and Catholicism isn't as powerful. During all the years of British rule their penal laws disadvantaged and punished Catholics and as a result the importance of Dublin produced two major Protestant Cathedrals. As the penal laws were relaxed towards the end of the 18th century,

the Marlborough Street site was bought in 1803 and when completed 200 years ago on November 14th, 1825. Since that was feast day of St Laurence O’Toole, canonised 801 years ago this year. What we used to call the Pro (short for Pro Tempore) Cathedral on Marlborough Street will now be known as St Mary’s Cathedral.

Dublin, had planned in 1940 to build a monstrous cathedral on Dublin’s Merrion Square. A site there was bought in 1930 for £100,000 (€113,167).

John Charles McQuaid, perhaps the most flawed and pompous Archbishop of

(see 'Dublin Dossier' Senior Times, Issue126, Nov/Dec 2023).

The funds collected for the new cathedral were used on new churches in the rapidly growing archdiocese of the time and on the Archbishop himself.

Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie 57

Travel

George Keegan visited some well-known and not so familiar attractions in the North West

Discovering Donegal

Glenveagh National Park

County Donegal is a great place to chill out during winter months with lots of activities on offer. Of particular interest are the numerous walking trails through the breathtaking landscapes from island shores to mountain peaks. Many of these are suitable for all ages and abilities. One favourite walk is the Tip O’Neill trail at Inishowen. Two years ago Donegal County Council introduced some specially designed Hippocampe wheelchairs here equipped to handle a variety of terrains, plus enhanced works along the trail, improving accessibility for both visitors and local residents. During November I took a four day trip beginning in Donegal town then heading to Ballybofey and finally Dunfanaghy. As I expected the landscape throughout the short journey was exceptional, helped in no small way by snow covered mountains. The county is dotted with historic castles and ruins. Several have been re-furbished and are open again to the public so castles became the main theme of my trip visiting two of them plus staying at Lough Eske where once towers and turrets meant a defensive strength, but today is a 5* hotel. Attractions along the route.. Donegal Castle A very fine Gaelic castle built in the 15th century by Hugh O ‘Donnell as his own fortress. The family ruled the kingdom of Tir Chonaill from 1200 to 1601. It overlooks the river Eske and was constructed at a bend on the river for defence purposes. The whole building and complex became a ruin during the 20thC but thankfully was restored to its former glory between 1989 &

1996.Of particular interest on my tour were the Store Rooms with restored 15th century cobblestones and Barrell vaulted ceiling. Another highlight the very Impressive Banqueting Hall with a large elaborately sculptured fireplace (considered one of the finest in the country), the Jacobean doorway and some impressive tapestries. Look for the Abbadeeh silk rug ‘The Tree of Life’ hanging on one wall. The castle is open all year round. Before leaving the area take a look at the large sculpture of Red Hugh O’Donnell just across the street from the castle entrance. It was commissioned by Donegal town Tidy Towns Committee in commemoration of the town’s 550th anniversary. Glenveagh National Park and Castle Another really impressive castle and well worth including on your visit, especially as it is located within the boundaries of the superb Glenveagh National Park. It was built in the late 1800’s by a Captain John George Adair, a wealthy landlord born in County Laois. Following his death his widow, originally from the United States, continued to expand the Estate. The next owner Arthur Kingsley Porter was a renowned professor at Harvard University. He purchased the property and used it with his wife as a second home. However one day the professor mysteriously disappeared and the property was then sold to Henry Plumer McIlhenny from Philadelphia, a family friend and former student at Harvard. It was during his tenure that dramatic changes were made especially to the gardens and many well-known celebrities began to visit, including Hollywood stars such as

58 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

Greta Garbo and Grace Kelly. Today there is a Gothic Orangery, two terraces, and the Pleasure Gardens with many exotic plants and several Indonesian sculptures. In 1983 the complete property was gifted to the State thus allowing the National Park to be created. Visitors can access the castle from the Visitor Centre just a short walk from the car park. On reaching the Centre there is the option of taking the 4 km trail bringing you to the Castle itself, or travel on one of the three shuttle buses operating every ten minutes or so, a journey offering some great views along the way. Within the castle there are self-guided or guided tours. The rooms are quite magnificent, each set out almost exactly as they were when the McIlhenny family were in residence and most of the furniture is original. Entry to the gardens and car parking are free but there is an admission charge to view the castle and a nominal charge for taking the shuttle bus. In the Visitor Centre is Nellie’s restaurant (open during the Spring/Summer season) and beside the castle a very good tea rooms operated by Synge & Byrne, open 7 days a week. For full details on opening times check the website. THE NATIONAL PARK: It would take a full column to describe the Park properly. It consists of 16,000 hectares and is now home to the majestic Golden Eagle. There are other raptors too such as the Peregrine Falcon. Alongside the 4km Lakeside walk (mentioned), there is a Nature Trail or perhaps take the Upper Glen route. The trails are suitable for all ages and abilities. Glenveagh is the second largest National Park in the country.

Western Ways

Crolly Distillery. Set in a very impressive stone building this Irish Whiskey distillery is in the village of Croithlí Crolly Distillery Moving on my next stop was at Crolly Distillery. Set in a very impressive stone building this Irish Whiskey distillery is in the village of Croithlí, between the Wild Atlantic Coast and Derryveagh Mountain range of which the highest is Errigal. It’s a 45- minute drive from Letterkenny and just 20 minutes from Glenveagh National Park. The building dating from 1901 has a most interesting history. It has housed Donegal Carpets whose creations have graced the rooms of Áras an Uachtaráin, Buckingham Palace and the White House, then was used as a RIC and British Army Barracks.

Fanad Head Lighthouse This iconic lighthouse, described by one writer as a ‘Beacon of History & Beauty’ sits proudly on the Fanad Peninsula between Lough Swilly and Mulroy Bay, close to the town of Portsalon.

In between the 1940’s and 70’s it became the factory for the famous Crolly Dolls, a great favourite with Irish children throughout that period.

Lough Eske Hotel: My first night was spent in this luxurious 5* hotel and historic building. It’s part of the Harcourt Collection established in 1986, comprising top class hotels in 4 countries and 2 continents. The other well -known establishments in Ireland are Titanic Hotel, Belfast & Redcastle Oceanfront Hotel & Spa also in County Donegal. Lough Eske is set on 43 acres of lush landscaped gardens and woodlands beside the Lough of the same name. Guests when booking have an excellent selection of room styles to choose between and recently new Donegal Suites have been added, which are luxuriously appointed with king size 4 poster beds, the large living room contains splendid oak furniture. The building has floor to ceiling windows ensuring stunning views and if you like luxury combined with relaxation, this is the place to stay. Food is served in Cedars Restaurant, the Father Browne Bar, or Gallery Bar. Dinner the evening of my stay was of a high quality.

The building fell into disrepair but was fully restored and now contains the first whiskey production facility in County Donegal since 1840. Whiskey brewed here is uniquely direct-fire double and distilled in Charentais stills. Tours of the plant are well worth taking giving a complete insight into the various stages of the process. At the end is a tasting session. A visit to the extensive shop, café and historic bar area completes the adventure. Open Mon-Sun 11am-5pm. Tours can be taken in both English and Irish. Fanad Head Lighthouse

Tours are available including a climb to the top with spectacular 360-degree views of the area. Open all year, but best to check times before travelling. Recommended. Accommodation I enjoyed overnight stays in three hotels along the way:

Kees Hotel This cosy family owned hotel is in Stranorlar (twin town of Ballybofey). It was established in 1845 and acquired by the Kee family 47 years later. There are 53 comfortable bedrooms and for that special occasion a De-Luxe Suite. Dinner (very good) is served in the Coach House Restaurant. Special packages are on offer to the over 55’s age group and the hotel is used on a regular basis for family occasions and small group functions. Recommended.

On the Tipp O’Neill trail at Inishowen Arnolds Hotel My final night was spent in another family owned establishment, the excellent Arnolds Hotel on Main Street Dunfanaghy in the North of the county, overlooking Sheephaven Bay. It has 30 bedrooms and food served in the dining room is described as stylish and contemporary. The breakfast menu is particularly impressive. I found the food overall good to very good. Staying at Arnolds (also recommended) is ideal for checking out several tourist attractions in this area. Of note are the Horn Head scenic drive and the two beaches of Killahoey & Marble Hill. The hotel organises special week-ends during the year and next up is a Photography course with award winning photographer Trevor Cole. Price includes 2 nights B & B, 3 course dinner, plus tuition. Aisling, family member and General Manager was elected last autumn as Chairperson of the Donegal Branch of the Irish Hotel’s Federation, representing all hotels and Guest Houses across the county. She told me it was a great honour to be chosen to represent Donegal and has been engaging on a regular basis with Government and industry partners tackling the many challenges currently facing the hotel industry. Useful websites www.godonegal.com www.discoverireland.ie-donegalcastle www.nationalparks.ie-glenveagh www.crollydistillery.com www.lougheskehotel.com www.arnoldshotel.com www.keeshotel.ie

Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie 59

Creative Arts

The Ballyfin Players, community theatre at its best. Eileen Casey on a remarkable group of players whose ages range from 17 to 70

Black and Tan actors Sean Connolly, Enda Gilligan, John Fingleton The New Year is a great time to plan for the months ahead, finding events, groups, clubs etc. where we can find enjoyment, companionship blossoms, and in the process, perhaps learn a new skill/craft. Even a drop in facility, a cup of tea and a chat, has great merit. Sometimes, it’s difficult to break out of ‘set’ ways and the thought of entering into a new social situation can be daunting. But it’s so worthwhile and most places now have thriving community centres, social clubs, vibrant libraries, book clubs and many more such outlets. For those of us trying to source a suitable occupation, most doctors offer a service called ‘social prescription’ whereby we can be pointed in the right direction. Much better than taking medications and after all, laughter is the best medicine of all.

Growing up in beautiful Georgian Birr (County Offaly) in the 60s/70s, I have many happy memories regarding cultural nourishment. Although I come from a modest background (born on a council estate), Birr was (and is) the kind of eclectic town where opportunity for culture is available to all. I immersed myself in whatever activity became available to me, thoroughly relishing being in a choir organised by The Methodist Church. My heart raced with joy as I left practice every Thursday evening. Whenever there was a pantomime from my secondary school, I gladly took part. Always in the chorus line mind but nevertheless, the smell of the greasepaint and the excitement of whatever drama, set my imagination alight. Dressed in my leg of mutton sleeved blouse, tight jeans and boots, I sang The Drinking Song

60 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

from the romantic musical The Student Prince, while holding out a tankard (empty of course!). Set in the fictional German kingdom of Karlsberg, in the university town of Heidelberg, the fires of drama were stoked. I also had a later opportunity of being in one of James Plunkett’s drama workshop many moons ago. The Author of Strumpet City didn’t disappoint and again, those fires burned bright. Birrwegians are lucky to have a large community centre, The Marian Hall, where everything from Bingo to concerts, to quiz shows are held. Winter fairs, summer flower festivals, dances and all sorts of miscellaneous community happenings take place throughout the year. Oxmantown Hall (erected in 1888 on Oxmantown Mall, a stone’s throw from Birr Castle Demesne) is another

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NEW FROM THE IRISH MANUSCRIPTS COMMISSION The court minutes of the Worshipful Company of Clothworkers, London, concerning their Londonderry estate,1609–1676 edited by David Heffernan

he wealthy and powerful City of London, as represented through its oldestablished Livery Companies, was a central, if reluctant, participant in the transformative Plantation of Ulster under the early Stuarts. As well as collectively developing two urban centres at Londonderry and Coleraine, the Companies were drawn into direct management of substantial landed estates. That the regime of Charles I expended much effort, and political capital, in a process which led to the confiscation of the City’s holdings contributed to the wider dissatisfaction building in London by the early 1640s. Yet only limited attention has been given to how the livery companies managed their estates in

Londonderry from London, the methods they employed and the tensions which their involvement in the scheme produced. This edition presents an extensive volume of records showing how one of the twelve great livery companies of London, the Worshipful Company of Clothworkers, addressed themselves both to the shared plantation initiative and to their own estate, in the north-east of the county. These minutes shed light on the scale of the Company’s reticence in terms of taking part in the plantation, the constant exchanges with the mayor and council of London in relation to financial assessments and the Clothworkers’ refusal to pay them — the ‘unsavoury, harsh and distasteful’ business as they called it. In addition much information is provided on the appointment of ‘farmers’ to manage the estates on behalf of the company, and carries the story forward into the years after the restoration of the Company’s title, into the 1660s and 1670s 978-1-911737-01-8 | €30| 2025

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Creative Arts

Ann Claire Reynolds such treasure. This beautiful ornate building was used as a theatre until 1965 and then previous to 2001, the building was restored and refurbished for its present purpose today (art installations, film screenings, plays, concerts, among others). Dances were held there in the 70s/80s. I spent many happy nights jiving and throwing shapes in that same glorious structure. Birr town boasts a well-stocked library too. In my day, the librarian wore her black scholar’s gown with pride. Violet Doolin, (alas no longer with us), helped me with my reading choices, making recommendations and steering me in the direction of the classics. In short, wherever we live, there is always something happening in our communities, something to bring us outside of ourselves and share in that sense of belonging. All thanks to stalwart folk who set up and work tirelessly to maintain such social exchanges. As 2026 ushers in, now is the time to consider investigating what exactly is available to join in your area. One of my friends is the ‘poster girl’ for how to live a full life. As a young woman she joined a choral group, is a member of a vibrant U3A (University of Third Age), writes pieces for print and radio and reads voraciously. She joined a Community Theatre Group in Bray where she lives and soon progressed to directing and then writing plays herself. She lives alone but I’m guessing is rarely at home…too busy enjoying life to the full. To return to Community Theatre. In recent years, as well as the distant past, such groups have sprung up all over the country and provide an excellent platform for those who love the buzz of

Geraldine Fitzpatrick entertaining an audience in whatever capacity. And there are lots of different roles to fill, from providing prompts beyond the footlights, ‘dressing’ the set, writing a sketch or one act play, selling tickets for performances, looking after the printing of posters, sending out advance information… phew! 101 behind the scenes jobs never mind casting characters, rallying the actors for rehearsals, scouring second hand premises for vintage costumes…again, phew! Fortunately for me, last year I was commissioned by Laois County Council (Culture Ireland) to write a play (The Black and Tan Raid in Clontyglass) to commemorate an incident that occurred in Clontyglass, County Laois. On a fateful night in January, 1921, Black and Tan soldiers raided a farm house. The eldest daughter of the house, Anna, was an active member of Cumann na MBan and often carried messages from Mountmellick in the handlebars of her bicycle. The Black and Tans forced their way in, destroyed property and terrorised a family with young children present. At the end of the day, a particular message sought was not found (it had been transferred from the handlebars of Anna’s bicycle to a compartment in an oil lamp and remained undetected). I have written plays before of course but creating drama out of a true story brings its own responsibilities. Remaining loyal to the sequence of events while ensuring the play contains elements of humour, empathy, believable dialogue…and more…proves challenging but oh so very worthwhile. My first point of contact was Ann Claire Reynolds (AC), a vibrant member

62 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

of Ballyfin Players, a group comprising 15 active members age ranged from 17 to 70. Children are encouraged to participate also, it’s a wonderful way of gifting confidence and interest in the arts in general. So far, the women outnumber the men! ‘Ballyfin has a strong tradition of drama,’ AC tells me, clearly delighting in such a tradition. Changing times meant interest dwindled in the early 90s. However, Frances Harney (from The Harney School of Speech and Drama) helped with a revival (2012 – 2022). Her input was exceptional, promoting the writing of plays (often with casts of over 30) and showcasing local talent. As the curtain came down on that era, interest lingered and a regrouping took place. The reformed players (The Ballyfin Players) met in spring 2024 with a plan to perform a play (The Wake) in the autumn of 2024. They were on their way. AC thoroughly recommends Community Theatre. ‘There’s a role for everyone – from the audience member soaking up the atmosphere, front of house volunteer greeting people at the door to the backstage crew keeping everything running smoothly. Even the carpenters crafting sets deserve to be lauded.’ Last but not least of course are the actors, ‘both experienced and inexperienced,’ bringing stories to life. AC talks about the benefits with real passion. ‘There’s a unique thrill that comes with that final curtain, the shared highs and lows among the cast and crew and savouring the genuine reaction of the audience.’ AC is no stranger to theatre, demonstrating an interest since an early age in primary school. This interest was duly noted by her sixth class teacher

Creative Arts who wrote it into a school report, a gesture that always stayed with her all these years later. Studying in St Patrick’s College, Dublin, AC has been teaching in Ballyfin since she graduated. In 2010, she completed her Certificate in Speech and Drama under the direction of Frances Harney (through Griffith College’s Leinster School of Music & Drama). The following year, she progressed to the Licentiate Diploma (LLSMD) in Speech and Drama for performers and teachers, again studying with Frances Harney. In 2011, she graduated with flying colours at Griffith College. AC’s achievements are to be applauded, especially considering she is also the busy mother of four children. It was AC, together with Gráinne Linden, who produced my own play. A fine job they did too. Thanks to skilful interpretation, the actors and the entire team brought my words to life and there’s no better thrill for a writer. Although an excellent producer (and director), AC has acted in Pantos with Mountmellick Macra for years. She competed in National Talent Competitions for comedy sketches, one act plays and various other theatre competitions. This beginning morphed into organising and running drama competitions. She’s also a fundraiser and in the last few years has joined Mountmellick Drama Group. I should say at this point that the theatre facility in Mountmellick Community Arts Centre,(where my play was performed) is second to none. A large hall, welcoming auditorium, up to date facilities and a modern stage with all necessary lighting and auditory equipment etc. bodes well for its future. What’s most striking in a way is the level of support the local community lends. Full houses are testimony to necessary support. Without it, the show, literally couldn’t go on. AC is very aware that having such a venue is crucial and that there are other lovely venues in the midlands (again, I’ll mention Birr Theatre!). She has happy memories from childhood when her mother, ‘if she thought a play was suitable,’ would bring her children to the performance. Mountmellick Drama Group host a drama festival every spring so that keeps motivation high. The Ballyfin Players begin scheduling in spring, looking at the year ahead. Fundraisers need organising and discussions about productions take place,

Marie Claire Burke and Donncha Phelan an invigorating element of the process. ‘In June we meet to finalise the fundraiser event – usually a September quiz – and to start selecting potential scripts.’ Once that’s done, the next phase (usually by August) focuses on script readthroughs, assigning parts and confirming performances. Productions already took place both in 2024 (The Wake) and 2025. I’m wondering if any disasters have been recorded. AC swiftly brushes that aside, ‘If the audience didn’t notice, then as far as we’re concerned, they never happened!’ Definitely the right way to approach it. AC accredits Valerie in Drama League of Ireland as being very helpful in sourcing scripts that can be developed. Together with The Black and Tan Raid in Clontyglass, two short comedies were performed on that same night, The Hired Help and The Yank Outsider. The reaction of the audience to these latter plays said it all. Rolling in the aisles with laughter with both productions perfectly contrasting the darker tones of The Black and Tan Raid in Clontyglass. Personally, I admire the work of Friel. Dancing at Lughnasa is a firm favourite. Who can forget the energy of those repressed women rising as one to dance their inner passions in that glorious pivotal scene. It’s an amazing moment, inspired and memorable. I ask AC if she could name her own favourites. ‘I like a variety of plays but particularly

64 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

admire Same Old Moon by Geraldine Aron. Warm and funny and sometimes bitter sweet, it follows the life of Bridie, an Irish girl growing up in the 50s-70s’. Good news for playwrights too is that The Ballyfin Players accept plays from outsiders, ‘if it suits the profile of the group’s relaxed style and audience.’ So, what’s on the horizon for the immediate future of the Ballyfin Players. ‘Gráinne and I are currently rehearsing for an upcoming play Albertine Five Times by Michael Tremblay. This will go on in February in Mountmellick Community Arts Centre.’ As if that’s not enough, AC is also co-producing Capers which is a twenty minute variety show, a competition run by Macra and replaced by The John Player Tops of The Town. Last year Ballyfin Players won the prize – ‘a fabulous trip to Paris!’ Very welcome, especially as AC enjoys holidays. Finally, I ask AC about that awful affliction dreaded by every actor that ever trod the boards, stage fright. ‘Even the best actors experience it. The adrenaline on the night can do funny things to us all!.’ Here’s hoping that same adrenaline keeps flowing, it’s also the same energy that enables fine performances to take place. Happy 2026 to Ballyfin Players and to all Senior Times readers. Sincere thanks to AC and Ballyfin Players and to Culture Ireland, Laois County Council.

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Wine World

New

beginnings:

Wines for the New Year

Mairead Robinson suggests trying something new for 2026 Do you find yourself regularly buying the same wine because you say it is your favourite? While there is nothing wrong with that at all, it can sometimes lead to a tendency to stick with the same wine at the expense of ever discovering something new. There is never a better time to branch out and discover some new wines than at the beginning of a new year. So along with other decisions, you might like to add ‘trying new wines’ to your list of New Year Resolutions! A good place to start would be by checking your favourite meals and then researching which wines would compliment those dishes best. This might well result in a pleasant new discovery. If you simply google the main ingredient of your dish, cooking method and most importantly, any spices or seasoning that is dominant in the dish, you will find some expert recommendations. This could well lead to some special dinners that could then become firm favourites. If you are a particular fan of a specific grape variety, you might like to try out the different parts of the world where that grape is now grown, and compare with other regions. These days with so many New world wines on the market, you will find that a variety that you always associated with France or Italy, you can now try how that differs from the same grape being grown in California or Chile. It is fascinating how climate and soil can change the taste experience of a variety so fundamentally. There is nothing more encouraging to tempt you to try new wines, than when you see them on offer. There so many wines on offer these days at discount prices both in supermarkets and off licences, that it is always tempting to try wines at a bargain price. So definately keep your eyes open for discounted wines as this is a great opportunity to try something you have not had before. There are regular monthly offers from O’Brien’s 66 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

Fine Wines, and this January is no exception. There are a few bargains I have noted that are certainly worth checking out. Now most are what we call Old World wines, but France, Italy and Portugal are all producers of great wines and if you get some on special offer, it is definitely a great start to the new year. One of my favourite red wines to enjoy with a hearty winter dinner is Merlot, and there is a great Belles Eaux Mistral Merlot from the Languedoc 2023 currently on offer with their January bargains. This is a great food wine, at 14% it comes with fruity flavours and even hints of chocolate to enjoy with your dessert. Currently reduced from €15.99 to €9.99 - Now that is a bargain! Moving from France to Portugal there are some great bargains to be found here. I have visited wine regions in Portugal over the years, from the Alentejo in the east of the country to the Douro in the north. And I am always impressed at the quality of wines to be found here, and the excellent value they offer. My choice today is even better value than usual, as it on offer from €13.99 to just €8.99 with O’Briens’ January offers. With a pretty colourful label, Cidade Branca (the White Town) is a rich full bodied wine with berry flavours that pairs extremely well again with our winter warm dishes. It comes in at 14% and pairs beautifully with Pork and Lamb dishes. It hails from the north of Alentejo, an area renowned for its quality rich food friendly wines. A real New Year bargain, this one.

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Wine World

Back to France now for new year bargains, and there is a gorgeous Bordeaux 2023 from Chateau Des Leotins, once again a very food friendly wine for the winter months. It comes in at 13% and is a real bargain at €9.99 reduced from €15.99. And if you are looking for white wines, there are plenty on offer also. A beautiful white from Cotes De Gascogne, La Salette is a particular favourite of mine. With the traditional grapes of Gascony – the Colombard and the Gros Manseng – this wine has a unique exotic flavour. Perfect with seafood, or indeed as an aperitif nicely chilled. It comes in at 11% and is priced at just €9.99 reduced from €14.95. And if you ever thought you did not like Pinot Grigio, then you should try Romeo & Juliette Pinot Grigio which is a beautiful wine, and in the January/February sale is reduced from €18.99 to just €9.99. A number of the wines on offer are being discontinued, so it is a good idea to check them out soon and stock up on your new favourites before they are gone forever! There are many more great offers this month on excellent wines, some of which may not be available for long. While they have special offers every month, for January they have a huge collection of wines from all around the world, and the prices are too good to ignore. I have mentioned just a few here, but there are many wines from all around the world at great prices for the New Year. If you love your wine, and love a bargain, I heartily recommend checking out the new year offers at www.obrienswines.ie

Government urged to tackle ‘saturation levels of junk food marketing’ The Irish Heart Foundation has called on the Government to match landmark restrictions introduced in the UK to tackle ‘saturation levels’ of junk food marketing fuelling crisis rates of childhood obesity. A blanket ban on all paid-for promotion of unhealthy food online, along with a 9pm watershed for TV advertising of such products, came into effect in Britain as part of measures to improve children’s diets and protect their long-term health. “This is a crucial measure for children’s future health that stands in stark contrast to lax rules which offer little protection to children in Ireland,” said Irish Heart Foundation director of advocacy, Chris Macey. “Children in Northern Ireland will now have greater protection than their counterparts here from unscrupulous online targeting tactics by junk brands that we know are rampant. “They result in overconsumption, which in turn causes high rates of overweight and obesity that are damaging children’s long-term health.” The State’s own research estimates that over 85,000 of today’s children on the island – around one in every 20 – will

die prematurely due to overweight and obesity; that children as young as eight are presenting with high blood pressure; and some teenagers have a cardiovascular age as high as 60. Mr Macey said despite this, rules in Ireland restricting TV advertising to children have been so thoroughly undermined that even four and five-year olds see over 1,000 junk food ads per year on average. “Research indicates that children are seeing an average of three junk food ads every 10 minutes they’re online – the equivalent of over 13,000 ads a year based on a conservative estimate of two hours a day spent on digital platforms. “To put that into perspective, exposure to just over four minutes of unhealthy food advertising increases consumption by an average of 60.0 kcal. But consumption of an extra 48-71 calories a day depending on age is enough to generate weight gain in children over time.” Mr Macey said many strong policy recommendations, most notably from the Oireachtas Committee on Children and Youth Affairs, had the potential to curb the impact of marketing on children’s food choices, but were not implemented.

68 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

Chris Macey

A recommendation in the 2020 Programme for Government to introduce a Public Health Obesity Act, including examining restrictions on promotion and advertising aimed at children, was also never acted on. “The implementation paralysis of successive Governments, which have been well aware of the need for tough restrictions on junk food marketing, has to end. The futures of tens of thousands of today’s children depend on it,” he added. “The UK regulations still allow brand ads and we know that infants as young as 18 months can recognise brands. They also don’t address influencer marketing which is playing a rapidly increasing role in junk food promotion. However, the new law is very much a step in the right direction and an essential part of action urgently need here to protect the longterm health of our children.”

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Crafts

Connie McEvoy repurposes a scarf into a shrug

Snug in a shrug..

My mother Brigid Kelly taught me how to use a rigid heddle loom when she made a scarf on one during the summer months of 1954, using Killowen 4ply wool pink, navy and pale blue. I still have that scarf plus the one that mam made. Having invested in a rigid heddle loom similar to the one used then, during the spring of 2007 I made another scarf again using oddments of four ply wool. As I still have the first scarf and the one my mother made, last March I decided to convert the latest scarf into a shrug.

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This was achieved by stitching a five and half inch seam at both ends of the scarf in order to form a cuff, working a few tucks at the neck edge plus a buttonhole fringe worked over a pen all the way to the cuffs. The cuffs and bottom edge of this shrug is finished with a knotted fringe worked with a darning needle.

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I am very pleased with the outcome of this transformation and I have asked my daughter-in-law Ann McEvoy, who prepares my work for publication, to act as my mannequin on this occasion. 70 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

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Golf

Dermot Gilleece recalls seeing Seve Ballesteros burst on to the scene for the first time in the Open at Royal Birkdale in 1976.

Remembering Seve 50 years on The formidable closing hole at Royal Birkdale . Seve burst onto the scene here when he finished second to Johnny Miller in the 1976 Open. In late August 1976, I saw Seve Ballesteros for the first time. Fifty years on, I’m also reminded that only a month previously he had taken the golfing world by storm by sharing second place behind Johnny Miller in the Open Championship at Royal Birkdale. Now he was rubbing shoulders with legendary figures such as Billy Casper and Gary Player as a star attraction in the Carrolls Irish Open at Portmarnock. A personal highlight of the Ballesteros era was his return to the Irish Open at Royal Dublin in 1983, after missing the previous two staging due to a dispute with the European Tour over appearance money. Indeed it also caused him to be omitted from the 1981 Ryder Cup at Walton Heath, where Bernhard Langer was among those Europeans who felt he didn’t deserve to be selected. Conscious of this, I felt moved to note in “The Irish Times” that his decision to mark his Royal Dublin appearance with a clinic for youngsters during Irish Open week, was no more than he was entitled to do. Having played in the US the previous week, he came to Dublin via London. And as my luck would have it, the only newspaper he could lay his hands on during the flight was the one I wrote for at that time. The consequence was that he became extremely angry after reading what he viewed as an outrageous piece by your humble scribe. Indeed he was still seething when he was met at Dublin Airport by Paddy Rossi of the sponsoring company, Carrolls. "Who this man Gilleechay?" he stormed, brandishing a copy of the offending newspaper. "Why he do this thing to me?" Then, with Rossi attempting to calm him down, he demanded there should be a printed retraction. Given that the Carrolls man acquainted me of this little contretemps, you will understand why I made no special effort to meet, one-to-one, with the bold Seve that week. And as 72 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

Seve was omitted from the 1981 Ryder Cup team over a dispute about appearance money the tournament progressed and he achieved a dominant position en route to ultimate victory, his memory of my criticism began to fade. Indeed he never, ever mentioned it, despite the countless meetings we had over subsequent years, including a shared lunch in Dubai in 1997.

Golf

vast arena of the 18th. The champion traditionally makes the last putt, but this time Miller put his in and then stood back to let Ballesteros sign off the Championship.”

It could be argued that with a winning margin of six strokes pending, Miller could afford to be generous. He went beyond such considerations, however, in his post-championship comments. “Don’t get me wrong,” he said, “but I think it’s a real good thing for Seve that he didn’t win. Day in day out, he wouldn’t yet be able to back it up. He might have been swamped by the resulting Christy O’Connor Senior –Seve was hugely impressed with his touch on pressures. Now, lots of lovely things can happen to him because he’s come second. Just like me: best thing that happened to me was the clubs when he first saw him as an aspiring teenager. not winning the Masters in 1971, but coming second. It gave me Christy O’Connor Snr was also in the ’83 field, prompting a just that bit more time to prepare myself for winning a big one.” distinguished visitor, Lee Trevino, to remark memorably that “Christy’s swing flows like fine wine.” As it happened, Himself was unwittingly responsible for introducing the teenage Ballesteros to Irish golf through his appearance in a European Tour event during the 1970s. Eagerly observing all the great players as part of his golfing education, the gifted young Spaniard studied the veteran Galwayman in action. Some years later, when I met his older brother, Manuel, at La Manga, he recounted Seve's reaction. Apparently the teenager had rushed into their Pedrena home exclaiming: "Manolo! Manolo! I have just watched a player with the most wonderful hands I have ever seen. His name is Christy O'Connor." And Manuel, eight years his senior and a tournament player in his own right, smiled in agreement, because he, too, had marvelled at those wonderful hands, many times. Late in 1974, still months away from his 18th birthday, Ballesteros made a surprise appearance in the Italian Open and proceeded to finish fifth behind Peter Oosterhuis in Venice. An astonishing talent was on his way. All-round consistency, remarkable for one so young, made him Europe’s most successful player in 1975 and earned selection in the Rest of the World team for the Double Diamond Tournament at Turnberry. There, his performance in gale-force winds caused quite a stir among seasoned observers and ultimately helped the side led by Gary Player to runner-up place behind the Americas. All of which prompted him to seek a place on the PGA Tour. Though he failed to secure a card on that occasion, he went the full distance in the Qualifying School, finishing 41st. Early in 1977, Ballesteros embarked on 18 months of national service in Spain. Before this major upheaval in his career, however, he established himself as a serious international talent in golf. The highlight in this context was a share of second place with Jack Nicklaus behind Johnny Miller in the 1976 Open at Royal Birkdale. This particular Open was also memorable for the tied-fifth finish by Christy O’Connor Jnr which earned him the reward of becoming the first Irish professional to be invited to compete in the US Masters, which he did the following April. The Spaniard’s Birkdale performance became all the more remarkable for the manner in which he was supported by Miller through the critical, final nine holes. It was described graphically by Frank Keating in “The Guardian” in a piece accompanying the main report by the inimitable Pat Ward-Thomas. Keating wrote: “After the 11th, the likelihood of Ballesteros dropping off the largest leaderboard like a brick out of a biplane, was very real. Miller soothingly piloted him through the disaster area and the boy gave up biting his lip and was cheerily ready to play dare again to the extent of thrilling birdies at the 13th and 14th, a rampaging eagle at the 17th and a celebration birdie for all the world in the

Johnny Miller won the Open at Royal Birkdale in 1976 but it was the performance of the ‘unknown’ Spaniard Seve Ballestros, who finished second, which grabbed many of the headlines In 1973, Miller produced a championship-record final round of 63 to capture the US Open at Oakmont. And three years after Birkdale, Ballesteros gained a memorable triumph in the 1979 Open Championship at Royal Lytham. Meanwhile, the Spaniard’s boyhood idol, O’Connor Snr, rolled back the years with a timeless performance at Portmarnock a month later, to be tied sixth behind the winner, Ben Crenshaw. But Ballesteros finished three strokes better to claim fifth place on his own, for prize money of £1,250. Indeed his Irish Open visits were sufficiently frequent and high in quality to allow him amass a formidable £87,390 in prize money alone, between 1976 and 1986. By that stage, he had won the title three times - in 1983 and 1985 at Royal Dublin and at Portmarnock the following year. Even when his game went into serious decline, Ballesteros was always welcome here. One such occasion was a visit in 2001 for the announcement of the Seve Trophy at Druids Glen in April of the following year. Seven weeks past his 44th birthday, he looked fit and relaxed in charcoal grey slacks and a light grey sweater, bearing the logo of the 2002 event. And he was happy to talk about his affection for this country, covering a quarter of a century since that Irish Open debut. As part of the promotional effort, there was the sight of a Seve special onto the island green at the 190-yard 17th hole. It won him a bottle of Rioja, his favourite tipple, on the foot of a bet made with John Dully, chief executive of Failte Ireland, over dinner the previous night. "It wasn't as good as the shot at Royal Dublin," he conceded with one of those special smiles. This was a reference to that controversial clinic he gave, on the Tuesday evening of Irish Open week in August 1983, when he hit a driver off his knees onto the green at the 255-yard 16th. "That was a really good one," he added with a broad grin. Another memory of that evening was watching him play miraculous bunker recoveries with an open-faced two iron. And 18 years later, Gilleechay had the good sense to keep his mouth shut! Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie 73

Food Safety

Fourteen closure orders on food premises

The Food Safety Authority of Ireland has reported that Environmental Health Officers in the Health Service Executive (HSE) served fourteen Closure Orders on food businesses during the month of November for breaches of food safety legislation, pursuant to the FSAI Act, 1998 and the European Union (Official Controls in Relation to Food Legislation) Regulations, 2020. Eight Closure Orders were served under the FSAI Act, 1998 on: McHales Catering Base and Stretford End Bar (Closed areas: Main kitchen and all storage areas behind the kitchen including food storage and food preparation areas) (Restaurant/Café), Drumkeen Causeway, Kerry Big Johns (Take Away), Main Street, Upper Mohill, Leitrim The Bridge House (Closed area: Storage Room and Back Bar area) (Public House), Corner of Persses-Lot & Main St (N74), Golden, Tipperary Umami (Retailer), 76 Main Street, Swords, County Dublin United Foods (Wholesaler/ Distributor), 76 Main Street, Swords, County Dublin Bodega Cafe @ Inspire (Service Sector), Unit 12M, Ard Gaoithe Business Park, Cashel Road, Clonmel, Tipperary The Mekong (Take Away), 307 Swords Road, Santry, Dublin 9 The Glendalough Hotel, Glendalough, Wicklow Six Closure Orders were served under the European Union (Official Controls in Relation to Food Legislation) Regulations, 2020 on: Trading as Enzos (Take Away), 87 Parnell Street, Dublin 1 Coffee Shack (Closed area: The room in the building at the rear of the Coffee Shack, Station Road, Castlebar, Co. Mayo being used as a food store) (Take Away), Station Road, Castlebar, Mayo Akanchawa Honey Pot (Restaurant/ Café), Unit 39, Coolmine Industrial Estate, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15 A.M.K Sushi (Take Away), Domestic Kitchen at Moynalty Road, Kells, Meath Benny’s Kitchen (Service Sector/ Residential), Domestic Kitchen at Tyrrelstown, Dublin 15 Cruncheesz (Take Away), Cavan Road, Oldcastle, Meath

Some of the reasons for the Enforcement Orders in November include: rodent infestation in the main food preparation area with rodent droppings throughout the main kitchen area and an old rodent carcass in a bar area; both dead and live cockroaches visible in the staff kitchen; food business not registered with the HSE; kebab slab removed from the rotisserie grill at close of business each night and held at ambient temperatures until the food business reopened the following day; cigarette butts noted in the food preparation area in old food containers; the ponding of a grey sludge-like material from the discharge pipe leading from the potato preparation area which may serve as an attractant for pests; unidentifiable food stored in plastic shopping bags in a chest freezer; floors, walls and ceilings covered in dirt, grime and cobwebs; no labelling on any of the cooked food in the fridge/ freezer; staff not demonstrating adequate knowledge of the basic principles of food safety. Mr Greg Dempsey, Chief Executive, FSAI, said that November’s Enforcement Orders serve as a reminder that all food businesses must maintain the highest standards of food safety and hygiene at all times and especially during the busy Christmas and new year periods. “Consumers have a right to safe food, and there is a personal responsibility on owners, managers, and all employees to comply with food safety legal requirements at all times. During the busy festive period, it is especially important that food businesses have proper procedures in place to manage increased demands and pressures. All food businesses must comply with their legal requirement to notify the competent authorities prior to operating to ensure there are adequate food safety processes, procedures and facilities in place.” “Takeaway businesses account for almost a quarter of all businesses served with Enforcement Orders so far in 2025. To support this sector, the FSAI has launched a dedicated section on its website for starting and running a takeaway business. The resource includes guidance tailored specifically to takeaway operations, highlights the most frequent compliance issues in Ireland, and provides practical advice on how to prevent and control them,” added Mr Dempsey. Separately, during the month of October one prosecution was taken by the Health Service Executive in relation to: The Green Ways Café, Main Street, Nobber, Meath Details of the food businesses served with Enforcement Orders are published on the FSAI’s website at www.fsai.ie. Closure Orders and Improvement Orders will remain listed in the enforcement reports on the website for a period of three months from the date of when a premises is adjudged to have corrected its food safety issue, with Prohibition Orders being listed for a period of one month.

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s c i s s a l C t r o f m o C Cookery

Recipes from Foxford Cafe Cookbook by Kathleen Flavin, published by The O’Brien Press

Pork and Apple Sausage Rolls

I use pork and apple sausage meat here, supplied by our local butcher Clive. If you can’t find it in your usual shopping spot, ask your butcher for some advice. Most good butchers will have their own version or something similar. These sausage rolls are a firm favourite among staff and customers. MAKES 6 FULL SIZE OR 12 MINI 1 sheet of pre-rolled puff pastry, 35cm x 23cm 400g pork and apple sausage meat 2 eggs 2 tbsp sesame seeds (optional) 1. Cut the puff pastry in half across lengthways. Place half of the sausage meat in a line, about 4cm in, across the longest side of each piece. 2. Whisk your eggs in a small bowl. Brush the ends of the pastry with the egg wash. 3. Tightly roll up each piece, ending up with the open side on the bottom. Cut each log in 3 or 6, depending on your size preference. 4. Brush with egg wash. Sprinkle with sesame seeds if using. Place on a parchment-lined baking tray and then place in the freezer for 30 minutes to really chill them. 5. Preheat your oven to 180°C fan/200°C/gas 6. 6. Place the rolls in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, until the puff pastry is crispy and golden. If you turn them over carefully, the pastry should be cooked on the base too – if not, return them to the oven for a few minutes. 7. Serve with our beetroot orange chutney. 76 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

Winter Slaw with Ginger and Sesame Dressing

There are so many versions of slaw and ways to dress it. This dressing packs a punch – it takes a bit of preparation time, but it will keep for months. To add this slaw to a lunchbox every day, I’d suggest prepping enough veg for three days and placing each one separately in an airtight container. Then take out what you need each day, mix and add your dressing. A sliced red apple is a great addition to change it up or add some sweetness. SERVES 4–6 ¼ head of white cabbage ¼ head of red cabbage 1 large carrot 2 handfuls of flat-leaf parsley leaves 190ml ginger and sesame dressing (page 185) sea salt, to taste 1. Secure your chopping board by placing a tea towel or clean dry cloth underneath it. Using a large sharp chopping knife, remove the stalk parts of the cabbages, then slice thinly along the direction of the leaves, or cut into pieces and feed through the slicing attachment on your food processor. 2. Peel and grate your carrot on the largest side of your grater. Roughly chop your parsley leaves. 3. Place all the cabbage, carrot and most of the parsley in a large bowl, keeping back a few leaves for garnish. Add the dressing and mix until all the vegetables are lightly coated. Taste and season with a little sea salt if you wish. 4. Sprinkle with parsley and serve. This will keep chilled in the fridge for the day – it doesn’t keep well overnight, so only mix what you need.

Cookery

Tomato and Roast Pepper Soup

BBQ Smoked Salmon Fishcakes

These beauties are one of the signature dishes on our menu. We use Clare Island organic salmon smoked by Clarkes Salmon Smokery in Ballina and serve with our famous buttermilk dressing. You can also use leftover mash – just check the seasoning and follow the quantities below. Roasting your peppers is the key to success with this soup. It sweetens them and highlights their unique flavour. If you don’t have fresh basil, a spoon of basil pesto (page 30) would suffice at the end. SERVES 4 4 large red or orange bell peppers 2 tbsp olive oil 1 medium white onion 3 cloves of garlic 400g chopped tinned or fresh tomatoes 1 litre vegetable stock 25g chopped fresh basil 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar sea salt and cracked black pepper 1. Preheat your oven to 200°C fan/230°C/gas 8. 2. Using a large chopping knife, halve your peppers, scoop out the seeds and remove the stalks. Place them on a baking tray, cut side down. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil and place in the oven. Roast until the skins blister or char. Place in a bowl and cover with cling film or a plate. Set aside. 3. Peel and roughly chop your onion, and peel and mince your garlic. 4. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large saucepan, add the onion and garlic, and cook until they begin to soften but not brown – keep the heat low. It should take 5–6 minutes. Stir occasionally. 5. Add the chopped tomatoes. Cook for a further 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. 6. Peel the peppers. They should be cooler now, and because they were covered while hot, it means the natural steam has lifted the skin so it’s an easier task. 7. Add the roasted peppers and the vegetable stock to the saucepan. Bring to the boil and simmer for 15–20 minutes. 8. Remove from the heat and blend using a hand blender until smooth. (You can cool and freeze at this stage if you wish.) 9. Gently reheat the soup. Then remove from the heat and sprinkle with chopped basil. Leave for 1 minute to allow the flavours to infuse. Add 1 tbsp of balsamic for more depth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

MAKES 6 LARGE FISHCAKES FOR THE MASH 750g peeled potatoes 25g butter 70ml cream ½ tsp salt pinch of pepper FOR THE CAKES 250g BBQ or hot smoked salmon ½ red onion small bunch of chives 1 handful of fresh coriander 2 handfuls of fresh parsley zest of ½ lemon sea salt and cracked black pepper, to taste 100g bread (regular or GF) 1 egg 100g flour (regular or GF) 1 tbsp oil, for frying TO SERVE Cucumber pickle Buttermilk dressing 1. Steam the potatoes until soft – 15–25 minutes depending on their size. Allow to sit for 2–3 minutes. 2. Place the cooked potatoes in a bowl and, using a masher or mixer, mash or beat until smooth. Add the butter, cream, salt and pepper. Mix until completely combined. Allow to cool fully. 3. Remove any skin from your salmon, and make sure there are no bones. Flake it into the mash. 4. Chop your red onion and chives finely. Roughly chop the coriander and parsley, and set 2 tablespoons of parsley aside for the coating. Add all these and the lemon zest into the bowl with the salmon. Mix well. Taste and add some seasoning if you wish. 5. Divide into 6 pieces. Roll into balls and pat lightly to flatten on top and bottom. 6. Place in the fridge to chill while you prepare the coating. 7. For the coating, first toast your bread and cool it, then blend into breadcrumbs. Add the reserved parsley to the blender and pulse. 8. Whisk the egg in a bowl. Place your flour in another bowl with a pinch of salt and pepper, and place your breadcrumbs in a third bowl. 9. Preheat your oven to 170°C fan/190°C/gas 5. 10. For each fishcake, dredge it in the flour, shake off the excess, then dip in the egg, let the excess drip off, then finally coat in the breadcrumbs. 11. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a non-stick pan and turn it to a medium heat. Fry your fishcakes, allowing them to take colour – about 1 minute each side. Place on a roasting tray and finish in the oven for 10–15 minutes until piping hot throughout. 12. Serve with a green leaf salad, some cucumber pickle and a drizzle of buttermilk dressing. Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie 77

SENIOR TIMES CROSSWORD No. 139 1

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Three copies of Alice Taylor’s Weathering Storms to be won Senior Times, in association with the publishers O’Brien Press, are giving three copies of Alice Taylor’s latest book as prizes in this issue’s crossword competition. When a record-breaking storm hit Ireland it causes chaos and confusion across the country. For Alice Taylor it took away a much-loved apple tree planted by her uncle 100 years ago. For so long that tree had been at the centre of her garden and life. Generations of children had climbed its branches. As she allowed herself to grieve and remember she thought of the many storms we weather in life.. Name: ................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................. Address: ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Phone: ............................................................................................................................................... Email:................................................................................................................................................

Senior Times would like to send you details of special offers, competitions, future features etc. Please tick this box if you do want to receive further offers.

78 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

Send your entry to Senior Times Crossword Competition, Senior Times, PO Box 13215, Rathmines, Dublin 6. The first four entries drawn are the winners. Deadline for receipt of entries is 15th February 2026

Crossword Crossword Number 139

ACROSS 1 & 19A. Greeting for 1st January (5,3,4) 4 Brown with a reddish tinge (6) 8 In US, it’s worth 1/20th of a dollar (6) 11 & 21& 43Across. It’s on 1st February (5,6'1,3) 18 ___ Welles was Harry Lime in ‘The Third Man’ (5) 19 See 1 Across 20 Large cetacean mammal (5) 21 See 11 Across 22 Short-tailed wildcat with tufted ears (4) 23 Spread that’s tasty on bread, ___ butter (6) 24 Not at work - maybe lazy (4) 25 Foot of animal such as a horse (4) 26 Barrier constructed to keep the sea out (4) 30 Daniel ___ who wrote ‘Robinson Crusoe’ (5) 31 Month of female patron saint (8) 33 AKA Paul Hewson (4) 34 Small rodent such as Mickey (5) 40 One who is not present (8) 42 Chum (3) 43 See 11 Across 44 Soak meat in a flavoursome sauce (8) 49 Joyce’s character, Leopold ___ (5) 51 Stately, white aquatic bird (4) 52 Male lover such as Juliet’s (5) 53 Soft white semisolid fat (4) 54 She was in Wonderland! (5) 57 State of timelessness - forever! (8) 59 Labyrinth or complex of paths (4) 60 Long, difficult trip (4) 61 At Easter, it is usually chocolate (3) 62 Long narrative such as those about Iceland (4) 64 Strong blow with a knife (4) 66 Court or make amorous advances (3) 67 Many a dame drank this honey liquor (4) 69 Out west, it’s made from beef, onions & carrots (4) 70 Danish author, Hans Christian ___ (8) 75 Meat cooked in an oven (5) 77 Canal linking Mediterranean & Red Seas (4) 78 One who eats no meat or dairy products (5) 79 Broadcaster & rock journalist, ___ Fanning (4) 81 Disney film, ‘Lady & the ___’ (5) 84 One who leaves one country to settle in another (8) 85 Substance used in candles (3) 86 Wild hairy ox, found in a kayak? (3) 87 You need mere cash to buy this soft fabric! (8) 93 James Dean film ‘___ without a cause’ (5) 94 Fill to satisfaction (4) 95 Norwegian Antarctic explorer, Roald ___ (8) 96 Lover & victim of Bill Sikes in ‘Oliver Twist’ (5) 102 Rounded like an egg (4) 104 Strong wind (4) 105 Tasting sour like a lemon (4) 106 Dublin hospital or signal fire (6) 107 Having prudence or discernment (4) 111 Subtle or difficult to grasp (7) 112 Gain skills or knowledge (5) 113 Ryanair, for example (7) 114 Annoy or irritate (5) 115 Number of Snow White’s dwarfs (5) 116 Small beard trimmed to a point (6) 117 Hard seed, grated for spice (6) 118 Cherub or divine messenger (5)

DOWN 2 Time interval while someone is away (7) 3 Skinny and of inferior strength (4) 5 Not needed, like an unwed ant! (8) 6 Kind of wheat I slept on! (5) 7 Limited period of time, in prison or school (4) 8 The present .. in these times (8) 9 I declare it’s the banner county (5) 10 Can this large animal pack a trunk? (8) 12 Largest continent (4) 13 Characterised by loud sounds (5) 14 Lough ___ between Cos. Donegal and Derry (5) 15 Not married (5) 16 Loathe or abominate (5) 17 Lopsided or awry (5) 27 Middle of the day (4) 28 Radio & TV personality, ___ Ashmawy (3) 29 I allot this book by Vladimir Nabokov (6) 32 Open route for travel & transport (4) 33 Cry of an ass (4) 35 Staying power ants aim for! (7) 36 Kilkenny is known as ‘The ___ City’ (6) 37 Buildings originally private stables (4) 38 Knitted jacket (8) 39 RTE regional reporter, ___ Mannion (6) 41 Gas or electric appliance used for cooking food (5) 45 Clawed foot of a cat or dog (3) 46 Holdall or capacious bag (4) 47 Cried or shed tears of sadness (4) 48 May I cook this sweet orange vegetable? (3) 50 Male religious living in a monastery (4) 55 Tamer word for ‘Mother’ often used in jest! (5) 56 Nature-focused broadcaster, ___ Mooney (5) 58 1,000 (8) 63 Torn, or regular payment for property (4) 64 Don’t pester this US film star, Meryl ___ (6) 65 Greed from loving caviare! (7) 68 Two performers singing together (4) 69 Previous name of Thailand (4) 71 Captain Kirk’s final frontier (5) 72 Your sister or brother’s son (6) 73 Small cask or barrel (3) 74 Barrier to contain water - found in Damascus? (3) 76 Small tower extending above a building (6) 80 Where is this cheese made? (4) 82 Infant or film about a little pig (4) 83 It’s 36 inches long (4) 88 Cure or make healthy again (4) 89 Napoleon met his final defeat here (8) 90 Peter O’Toole played him in ‘___ of Arabia’ (8) 91 Small boat designed to pull larger ships (3) 92 Definitely not positive (8) 97 Food such as Chow mein or Peking duck (7) 98 Muhammad Ali for example (5) 99 Shiny black bird of crow family (5) 100 Assembly of witches (5) 101 Not ever (5) 103 Deep blue (5) 105 Can a stoat raise a glass? (5) 106 Damaged by fire (5) 108 Washes against the seashore twice daily (4) 109 Story or a cord of fibres (4) 110 Revolve quickly or a short trip (4) Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie 79

Cosmetics and Beauty

Seeing

d e R

Mairead Robinson delves into what makes With our pale Irish skin, we seem to go a bit red in the face at certain times and under specific conditions. So, what causes this and how can we control it? The medics will tell you that a red face in a woman can be caused by temporary factors like emotional stress, spicy foods, alcohol and heat, but also by persistent conditions such as the skin condition Rosacea, hormonal changes during puberty or menopause, and allergic reactions. Other causes include certain medications, sun exposure and skin irritants like some cosmetics products. Most of us have been in situations where go red in the face when we feel embarrassed for some reason, and this can often lead to anxiety and also anger can cause increased blood flow to the face. The good thing is that these situations are generally very temporary and short lived. For some people the red face can be caused by including spicy foods in the diet, but again this is mostly very temporary. Alcohol is another trigger, and red wine unfortunately is often the culprit for some people. Of course sun exposure can be a dangerous trigger, and a SPF of 50 should always been used

us go red?

on the face, even in the winter months. Medical conditions that cause red face also include autoimmune diseases like lupus, Cushing’s syndrome and contact dermatitis. However for many Irish women, the underlying issue is the condition commonly known as Rosacea. So what is this condition, and how can we treat it? Rosacea is described as a chronic inflammatory skin condition that primarily affects the face, causing persistent redness, visible blood vessels and sometimes acne-like bumps or skin thickening. It commonly appears on the cheeks, nose, forehead and chin. Symptoms can include burning or stinging sensation, especially when using certain skin care products.

However it is encouraging to know that there are products on the market now that can help deal with this condition and

80 Senior SeniorTimes Times||November January - February December 2026 2025 | www.seniortimes.ie | www.seniortimes.ie

they are available across the counter in pharmacies and don’t cost the earth, or cause any further skin problems. First up is from Boots No 7 range and includes their No 7 Airbrush Away Colour Balancing Primer. Other products include No 7 Calm Skin Redness Relief. These products are very well priced. Check out your nearest Boots chemist to see their full range. Another brand which is very helpful in lightly covering redness is from IT Cosmetics and consists of a compact with sponge and mirror from their ‘Bye Bye Redness’ range. This is a great product to keep in your handbag, and apply lightly as you need it – particularly for a red nose! They also have a Neutralizing Redness Corrector for the face, a long wearing full coverage cream make up They also have Bye Bye Colour Correcting cream which you can apply as a foundation. It contains Hydroyze and is very suitable for mature skin. My favourite anti-redness cream out there now is ROSALIQUE. A very small amount is enough to tone down any redness on your nose or cheeks and you can use it after your moisturiser, if you

Cosmetics and Beauty like, or instead of and just use it after cleansing and toning. Their 3 in 1 AntiRedness ‘miracle formula’ conceals the red immediately, treats your skin gently and protects it long term. It also contains an SPF50 to protect the skin from UVA and UVB rays, which is really important. Once applied, Rosalique’s technology instantly conceals redness and evens out the skin tone, while also treating and calming the skin. Recommended use is to apply in the morning to clean skin using your fingers or a brush, applying a small amount evenly across your face and blend it until it adapts to your complexion. You can re-apply during the day if needed. It also works very well as a tinted moisturiser, or as a primer to use under make up. Application tips include applying to a well-cleansed, hydrated face, using a moisturiser before applying is recommended, but not essential. I must admit that I always do apply moisturiser beforehand myself, as my skin tends to be quite dry, and I think for mature skin, you cant go wrong with a little extra moisturiser! And don’t be worried

when using for the first time as you might think your face is bright green! As you massage it gently into your face the green colour actually disappears and the product adapts to your skin tone. Start out by using a very small amount, you can always add a further thin layer after a while if you feel you need it. Personally I feel a little goes a long long way, and it really does blend evenly into your skin. Basically Rosalique 3 in 1 anti-redness formula has a triple action effect as I mentioned – it conceals the redness instantly, it treats the condition gently

Coach Holidays

and it does protect the skin long term. And with or without any other sun protection barrier, you can be confident that with the SPF 50, Roslique will be protecting you from sun burn. And finally, it is extremely well priced at €34. There is no need to fear blushing again either!

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Departing 10th May for 4 Days €445 per person sharing | €565 single

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Meeting Place QUESTION AND QUERIES If you have a question or a query regarding Meeting Place, e.g. how to post and reply to an advertisement, email your query to john@slp.ie or telephone 087 2312640 RETIRED TIPPERARY PROFESSIONAL LADY This was the heading of an advertisement | placed over a year ago. I had a nice reply from a gentleman in North County Dublin. Unfortunately I lost his details. If he sees this and is still interested perhaps, he could reply to the box number below. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER GI DUBLIN GENT MID 70s fit and healthy, average height and build. Interests include reading, walking, travel in Ireland and abroad, dining out, theatre, films. WLTM lady of similar age and with similar interest’s. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER G2 SINGLE PROFESSIONAL LADY MID60s, RC, WLTM a tall single gent 5ft 116ft, 66-76in. Interests include social outing and dancing and concerts, theatre, world travel, cinema, GAA and all sports. Other interests include charity work, swimming, cooking, baking, current affairs, animals, reading, ballroom dancing. A big plus if you can dance. Must be of a generous nature and have a car. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER C1 CONNAUGHT-BASED RETIRED PROFESSIONAL LADY 70 active, healthy, widowed, with a very positive attitude to life and enjoys good company. Interests include, golf, bridge, dancing, reading, current affairs and travel. Home and abroad. WLTM a lik-minded gentleman of similar age for friendship, companionship and come shared interests. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER D1 SOUTH DUBLIN WIDOWER 70 WLTM a nice lady to spend good times together. I’ve had a good life with a lot of travelling. Italy has been my go-to destination over the years. I like all sports and enjoy the outdoors with walks etc. I play music as my main hobby. Get in touch if you feel I can enrich your life. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER D2 GENT WICKLOW AREA, 60S GSOH, average height, and friendly. Interests include music, theatre, outdoor pursuits such as walking. Easy going, good perople person. WLTM A LADY OF SIMILAR AGE AND INTERESTS, Prepared to travel to meet REPLY TO BOX NUMBER D3

NB: When replying to advertisements give only your phone number and/or your email address. Do not give your postal address!

MID WEST WIDOW, caring, a good listener having a positive outlook, enjoying travel, gardening, art, current affairs, armchair sports and socialising.. WLTM a good natured, kind happy and interesting good humoured NS gent 66 - 76 for developing friendship and companionship and shared activities. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER K1

KILDARE WIDOW 63 Good appearance, medium height and build, NS, SD. Sociable and chatty. Interests include most types of music, current affairsome sports, the outdoors, days out and weekends away WLTM gent late 60S early 70 for friendship, companionship and possibly relationship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Q7

FEMALE WLTM other females to socialize in Dublin and surrounding areas interests include all types of music, walks in th country and fireside chats, and doing things in general such as meeting for a coffee and chat. Age group 60s to 70s. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Q1

DUBLIN SOUTHSIDE WIDOWER 70s Own house and car. Very active, nice appearance. WLTM a lady who enjoys driving at home and abroad. Love fun times, dancing meals out, delightful living plus everything else that would make us both really happy. NS, SD and jolly good company! REPLY T0 BOX NUMBER Q8

DUBLIN GENT 62 Single , healthy, respectful, neat dresser and young at heart. Enjoy socialising, weekends away, sun holidays, concerts and sports and having the craic and always open to new adventures and most important of all a wonderful sense of humour. WLTM a lady who enjoys a full life and laughter. Ladies always remember if you’re not having fun, you’re doing something wrong. So why not put pen to paper! REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Q2 CO CARLOW RETIRED FEMALE 69 WLTM gent for socialising an perhaps more.. N S SD and young at heart. Enjoy muris, films, reading, and travel. . Would like to meet gent with similar interests to share life with. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Q3 RETIRED NORTH WEST LADY looking for companionship with man frim north west, midlands or west of Ireland. Interests include DIY, walking, music of all types, travel, cinema and cooking. Lookinh for a gent 60-75 to share life with. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Q4 MIDLANDS MAN 73 fit slim looking to meet a lady similar age, for nice times, coffee, music and culture walks/drives, midlands area please REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Q5. DUBLIN LADY 60 GSOH WLTM lady or gent of similar age for socialising in the Dublin area. Interests includes coffee meetings, dining out, dancing and theatre. Anyone looking for company over Xmas? REPLY TO BOX NUMBER Q6 REMEMBER YOUR CONTACT DETAILS! When sending in a reply to an advertisement ensure that you include your phone number or email address. But do not give your postal address

82 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

WICKLOW GENT MID 60s NS , GSOH and coversationist. Interests include music, reading, theatre. walking and the outdoors. WLTM lady of similar age. Am prepared to travel. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER W1 MIDLANDS BASED RETIRED professional lady, 65, well- travelled, many interests including all types of music, travel, reading, walking and the theatre. WLTM tall gent 60-70 for relationship, weekends away and holidays REPLY TO BOX NUMBER W2 EAST CORK LADY WLTM kind, intelligent gent 68-75 to share life experiences and maybe create new ones. Must have a GSOH. Interests include the arts, reading, current affairs and history REPLY TO BOX NUMBER W3 NORTH CO DUBLIN LADY, 75 , slim, medium height WLTM an educated gent. Interests include travel abroad, theatre, art appreciation, walking, dancing, reading, classical and traditional music REPLY TO BOX NUMBER W4 SINCERE LADY separated many years, a young 74, living in Dublin Southside originally from Kerry. I'm fit and healthy, kind and of good appearance, sociable and friendly. I love the outdoors all year round.I enjoy music,reading,history,current affairs,many sports.Like to travel here and abroad.I love poetry and do a bit of writing I'm a nonsmoker, but like a glass of good wine and healthy food. Have simple tastes like coffee in nice surroundings and good conversation. WLTM a nice man with similar interests and a zest for life for companionship and perhaps more.. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER W5

DUBLIN MALE, SEPARATED. 72, NS SD 180cm height, still reasonably fit and energetic. Like the great oudoors, fine dining, cinema, theatre, walking etc. WLTM lady with similar interests who would like to be a companion for social events etc. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER W6

good dress sense for social outings . Many interests including world travel, concerts, reading, theatre, cinema, cooking, animals, charity work, current affairs, swimming, ballroom dancing , A big plus if you can dance. Must be of a generous nature and have a car. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A1

involved in sport, playing coaching etc. I play golf now. Major rugby fan, Have worked and still work as movie extra and sometimes appear in ads. Love to dance when the knees allow Moderate drinker, but like a G&T. The ball is in your court now. Cheers! REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A11

NORTH EAST BASED GENT EARLY 70s NS SD WLTM lady of similar age from anywhere in the country to share days and evenings out. Intersts include, cinema, theatre, dining out, and many types of music. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER W7

LADY, 69, VERY YOUNG AT HEART living in Dublin.Originally from Meath. NS, SD, Very witty. I would like to meet a nice guy who is interested in movies, plays, concerts, travel home and abroad, walks, swimming, dining out and relaxing . Yippee! REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A2

TO PLACE AN ADVERTISEMENT

NORTH WEXFORD LADY 65 NS, SD own house and ca, WLTM a kind and honest gentleman of similar age (ie umder 70) with similar interests I like walking in nature, travelling at home and abroad, eating out, coffee in nice surroundings, reading, social dancing etcv. Am seeking a long-term respectful relationship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B1 DUBLIN GENT 72 retired professional, 5ft 11in, good appearance, NS, SD. Many interests including music, dancing, walking, current affairs, reading, cinema, eating out, bridge, travel home and abroad etc. Sociable, kind and loving personality. WLTM warm hearted educated lady with some of these interests. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B2 CORK LADY 72 WLTM gent for outings and events, theatre etc and craic. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B3 I AM A RETIRED PROFESSIONAL WOMAN in my seventies living in South Dublin. I am fit and healthy and enjoying my retirement to the full. I play golf and enjoy going to the National Concert Hall for various events. I enjoy history, literature and philosophy and popular sciences events and various life-long learning classes I also enjoy good conversation on a range of topics including politics. I am divorced for over 20 years and have, I’m told , a nice smile. WLTM gent of similar age and interests REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B4 SOUTH DUBLIN WIDOW LATE 70s.NS SD WLTM gent of similar age to share the simple things in life..coffee, chats, walks. theatre etc. Also to soak up the sun on trips abroad and do the things that are not fun doing alone. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B5 VIVACIOUS SDOUTH DUBLIN LADY 60s WLTM gent late 60s early seventies, NS SD . Interests include music, eating out, travel at home and abroad. Looking for someone to share all the good things life has to offer. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER B6 PROFESSIONAL LADY, TALL, SINGLE, RC WLTM a single gent 5ft 11-6ft with

SOUTH EAST GENUINE, SINCERE LADY, 70s, ND, NS, slim, kind, loving and caring, pleasant personality/ Interests include cooking, music, entertainment, dining out, travelling and sight seeing. WLTM catholic gent 70 - 75 with similar interests for companionship. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A4 KEEN PHOTOGRAPHER WLTM those with similar interest in photography for meetings, outings etc. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A5 SEMI-RETIRED BUSINESSMAN 70s living in the Midlands. Tall, slim and of good appearance. Very kind and generous. Interests include most type of music, dancing, cycling and walking, eating out and short breaks. WLTM lady with similar interests. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A6 LADY 69 young at heart living in Dublin but originally from Meath. WLTM a nicer guy who is interested in movies, concerts, travel home and abroad, walking, swimming, dining out and relaxing. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A7 DUBLIN PROFESSIONAL GENT EARLY 70s. GSOH, NS, SD medium height, neat appearance. Interests include ,music, social dancing, travel home and abroad, current affairs, reading, theatre, cinema, eating out and sport. WLTM lady 65-with similar interests and zest for life. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A8 NORTH CO DUBLIN BASED LADY slim, 5ft 4in WLTM a superbly compatible gentleman. My interests are varied but include walking, dancing, reading, classical and 60S music, travel. Someone well educated and with a GSOH to boot would be appreciated. REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A9 KILDARE MAN MID 7Os fit and slim and good appearance W;TM a lady 65-75 to share music, dancing and eating out REPLY TO BOX NUMBER A10 NORTH DUBLIN WOMAN LATE 60s WLTM social gent. All my life I have been

If you are interested in meeting someone of the opposite or same sex, send your advertisement, with four stamps (which is the average reply rate) enclosed in the envelope, to: Meeting Place, Senior Times, PO Box 13215, Rathmines, Dublin 6 Or email: john@slp.ie NOTE: When submitting advertisements ensure you include your surname as well as your christian name. IMPORTANT Ensure you give your approximate age and the area you live, noting your interests. The advertisement should not be more than 60 words. If you are replying to the advertisement via Senior Time’s email, ensure you include your postal address for those not on the Net. (Only Senior Times will have these details). Deadline for receipt of advertisements for the next issue is February 24th 2026. TO REPLY TO AN ADVERTISEMENT Each reply to an advertisement should be enclosed in a plain, stamped envelope, with the box number marked in pencil so that it can be erased before being forwarded to the advertiser. Send these envelopes in a covering envelope to the address , above, so that we can forward them to the advertiser. There is no limit to the amount of advertisements to which you can reply, provided each one is contained in a plain, stamped envelope. Ensure you give your approximate age and the area you live. For those submitting their advertisements by email ensure that you also supply Senior Times with your postal address so that we can post replies from those who have replied by post. (Only Senior Times will have your postal address).

Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie 83

Now is the Time to Plan Your

Spring Break at Sunset Beach Club! WELCOME TO PARADISE! If the winter chill has overstayed its welcome, there’s no better remedy than a dose of Costa del Sol sunshine. Spring arrives early in southern Spain, bringing bright blue skies, gentle sea breezes, and daytime temperatures that often reach 18ºC or more. With regular direct flights from Dublin to Málaga, you can leave home in the morning and be enjoying a sunny terrace by lunchtime. And with Sunset Beach Club just 15–20 minutes from the airport, your Spring escape couldn’t be easier. Perfectly positioned on the seafront of Benalmádena Costa, the Irish owned Sunset Beach Club combines the comfort of apartment style accommodation with the full services of a 4 star resort. It’s a favourite among guests seeking sunshine, relaxation, and warm Irish hospitality abroad. Whether you’re dreaming of a cultural tour of Andalucía, a gentle break to warm your bones, or simply a few days of sea views and serenity, this is the ideal place to stay.

COMFORT, CHOICE, AND NEWLY REFURBISHED ROOMS Accommodation options include open plan suites, studio apartments with one bedroom, two bedroom apartments, and penthouses. Every room features a kitchenette, lounge area, and private terrace, giving you the flexibility of self catering with the convenience of hotel services. Choose from Room Only, Bed & Breakfast, or Half Board, or your can simply pay for meals as you go. The newly refurbished Prime Studio Apartments have guaranteed sea views, and have been redecorated with Mediterranean tones. New sofas, soft furnishings, and stylish terrace furniture give these rooms a bright, modern feel. DELICIOUS DINING & LIVELY SOCIAL SPACES Food lovers will feel right at home. Start your day with a generous buffet breakfast in the Oasis Restaurant, enjoy an al fresco lunch at La Terraza,

and sip a cocktail at the Panorama Bar on the 6th floor, where the Mediterranean views are spectacular. Don’t miss the daily Happy Hour, which is the ideal time to meet fellow guests and make new friends. In the Spring evenings, there is regular entertainment with live singers in the La Terraza restaurant and tribute shows and entertainment in the Moonlight Bar. ACTIVITIES, ADVENTURES, AND RELAXATION— YOUR WAY Your Spring break can be as active or as laid back as you wish. The hotel’s activities team offers a full programme suitable for seniors, including morning stretching, yoga, cookery workshops, darts, bingo, and petanca. Prefer to explore? The on site Leisure Desk can arrange day trips and provide maps, bus timetables, and insider tips. You can also visit local markets, walk along the beachfront or take a stroll to Benalmádena Marina, explore Mijas village, or enjoy a cultural day out in Málaga’s historic centre. Another popular option is to simply relax by the pool or on your private balcony with a good book.

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EASY TRAVEL, GREAT VALUE, AND IRISH HOSPITALITY With excellent flight connections and a short transfer time, getting here is effortless. And with competitive Spring rates, flexible board options, and the comfort of apartment style living, Sunset Beach Club offers outstanding value for money. Book directly at sunsetbeachclub.com for Best Conditions. Spring sunshine, a seafront location, great food and friendly faces are waiting to welcome you at Sunset Beach Club!

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Sunset Beach Club Hotel | Avda. del Sol 5, Benalmádena-Costa, Málaga (Spain) Tel. +34 952 579 400 | booking@sunsetbeachclub.com www.sunsetbeachclub.com

Humour

Urban Myths And Legends By Des MacHale

Don’t tell me it hasn’t happened to you. A friend in a pub, on a train or in a café has told you a very plausible but maybe gruesome story, not without a touch of ironic and macabre humour, and while it didn’t happen to himself, he swears it happened to a friend of a friend of his or maybe a distant cousin. The story is of course a complete fabrication, and cannot possibly be verified but it often has a ring of truth to it and many people I have met fall for it. Quite frequently, the story is a moral tale where the baddies get their comeuppance, so people find it intriguing and memorable. Even in the face of the facts, the teller will often cling to the story and refuse to believe it did not happen. And during the silly season, when news is slow, some newspapers and magazines like to print these stories as fillers masquerading as news items—but who cares? Today’s newspapers are just tomorrow’s fish and chip wrappers.

A woman, a friend of a friend of mine, went into Bewley’s old café in Dublin and ordered coffee and a packet of six little chocolate biscuits. She sat down at a table opposite a man reading a newspaper, which was covering his face. As she drank her coffee, she saw his hand coming round the newspaper, picking up a biscuit and eating it. She looked on in annoyance but didn’t say anything. A little while later, the hand came round again and took another biscuit. When all the biscuits were gone, the woman was absolutely gobsmacked, but still said nothing. Suddenly the man got up, went to the counter and returned to the table with another cup of coffee and a jam doughnut. The woman was about to leave but decided to protest in kind. When he had sat down, she grabbed the doughnut and took a great big bite out of it and stormed out of the café. When she reached her car and put her hand into her pocket to take out her keys, she was mortified to find her packet of biscuits in there intact.

Over the years, I have read literally thousands of these stories of events that allegedly happened—they are often called urban myths and legends and they seem to be enormously popular with people of all ages and classes. I would like to share with you now some of the best of these that I have come across.

I once heard my local parish priest in a sermon tell this story saying it happened to a friend of his in a Cork café , and the myth still lives on—my son Dominic recently told me that it happened to a friend of his on the Dublin to Galway train, only this time it was a packet of crisps rather than a packet of biscuits.

86 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

One of my favourite urban myths was told to me by a distant cousin who swears he knew the guy involved and that the incident really happened. The story involves a bus driver who was hired to transport a group of psychiatric patients from one hospital to another. On the way, he stopped and left the bus to buy a newspaper, but of course when he returned all his passengers had vanished. Undaunted, he toured all the bus stops in the area and picked up all the passengers waiting at them until he reached his original quota. He then proceeded to his hospital destination and warned the staff there ‘Now these patients will all protest strongly that they are completely sane, but pay no attention to them and lock them all up securely at once’. Legend has it that the bus driver immediately emigrated to Australia. Irish weddings are usually very happy events, but not this one attended by a friend of a cousin of mine. On this occasion the father of the bride foolishly left three thousand euro in currency notes in the inside pocket of his overcoat which he hung up in the hotel before the reception. As he prepared to leave, the money was missing from his overcoat and the police were called. Despite intensive investigations, the culprit could not be found. A week later, with

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A River Scene in Winter (Detail), 1653, Jan van de Cappelle, 1626-1679. Photo, National Gallery of Ireland

Humour

the happy couple on honeymoon in Spain, the wedding photographs and videos arrived. One video clip showed an individual searching the overcoat and removing the money. It was the groom. This one is gruesome, but absolutely true according to a medical friend of mine. In a certain Irish hospital, it was observed that patients occupying a particular bed in a certain ward had a much higher mortality rate than the average, for no apparent reason. It was decided to install a CCTV apparatus to see if the cause could be determined. When the tape was played back, it showed a cleaning lady plugging in her vacuum cleaner and removing the plug of the life support machine. This guy my wife knew had complained for years about the prices his local butcher charged—much too expensive in his opinion. So he decided he would take the law into his own hands and have his revenge. One day when there was a full queue of customers at the butcher’s shop he marched up to the counter and said to the butcher, ‘That is the last of the present batch’, and placed a dead cat on the counter. A friend of a cousin of mine who drove a concrete mix truck suspected his wife of being unfaithful to him, so he decided to catch her out. One day when he was supposed to be miles away, he drove by his house with a full load of liquid concrete aboard. Right enough, the bedroom curtains were drawn and outside his house was parked in the street a brand new open convertible car. Disgusted at the situation, he emptied his full load of liquid concrete into the convertible, filling it up. As he stood there smirking, a little bald fellow emerged from his house, hopped on

his bicycle and pedalled away furiously down the road. This man’s car was giving him trouble so he slid himself under it to investigate just as his wife was off to do some shopping in the local grocery store. When she returned home about an hour later, she saw two legs sticking out from under the car so she went over and tickled him in a very sensitive place. There was a sudden jolt as the body under the car hit his head on the undercarriage, knocking himself out. ‘What did you do that for?’ shouted her husband, rushing out of the house, ‘I couldn’t fix the car, so I sent for a mechanic to do the job’. They called an ambulance and when the paramedics were carrying the mechanic away on a stretcher, the woman told them what had happened. They laughed so much that they dropped the stretcher, and the mechanic sustained a broken arm and a sprained ankle. Well, it could have happened, couldn’t it? This cousin of a friend of mine decided there was money in robbing banks so one day he marched into a bank with a mask on, and so that his voice would not be recognised, handed the teller a note with THIS IS A BANK ROBBERY—HAND OVER ALL YOUR MONEY AT ONCE written on it. The teller obliged and handed over a large amount of money and the robber made his escape. But the police arrested him an hour later at his home. He had written the note on the back of an envelope with his name and address on the front. A woman driver my brother-in-law knew was stopped by a policeman who accused her of doing 60kph in a 50kph zone. ‘I’m afraid you’ve got me officer’, she said

88 Senior Times | January - February 2026 | www.seniortimes.ie

to him, ‘ I have just consumed a bottle of vodka, and I have been sniffing cocaine all afternoon. And as well as that, I have a body and explosives in the boot’. The panicked policeman rang the station and told them about the situation, requesting the armed emergency task force to visit the scene. The woman passed the drink test and the drugs test easily and they found nothing incriminating in the boot of her car. The woman said to the task team, ‘I suppose he will also say I was speeding’. A friend of a friend of mine saw an ad in the paper: ‘New Mercedes for sale, perfect working order. One hundred euro or nearest offer’. Hardly believing his luck, he called round to the address given and asked the lady who opened the door if there was any mistake or misprint in the ad. ‘No mistake’. she said, ‘My husband has just left me and run off with his secretary. He told me to sell his new Mercedes for whatever I could get for it and send the money to him and that is exactly what I am doing’. And finally, how about the old lady in Donegal who loved watching snooker on television but found that she was having to stay up very late at night to see the end of all the matches? So she wrote to RTE pointing out that there was a man at each match who persisted in putting the balls back on the table after they had been potted. If this man could be stopped, she suggested, then she might be able to get a decent night’s sleep. So there you have it—just a few of the thousands of urban myths and legends that have been circulating worldwide for many years. But next time you hear one, will you believe it?

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