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2
RUSH TIMES Volume 1, Issue 10 October 2020
Editor: Liam Gavin, Email:liamggavin2@gmail.com
Phone: 086 - 2584302
CONTENTS October 2020 Vol 1, Issue 10
5 Idiots who vandalised AED ’ s risk lives In an act of mind - blowing stupidity, some idiots decided to vandalise defibrillators outside Supervalu and at St. Catherines recently. Anyone with dash - cam footage or other information that might assist Gardai is urged to pass it on. Hopefully nobody in these thugs families has a heart attack and needs a jump - start before they are fixed.
7 COVID - 19 Tracker Another month into the pandemic, and we continue to record the day - by - day history of the biggest health crisis to hit the world in living memory
10 A ghostly dog A sailor ’ s faithful dog was the only survivor from a daring rescue attempt. The dog sat on his master ’ s grave, refusing to move or even eat, until he died of starvation. But his ghost lives on, and has been seen by many people, including the Dean of St. Patrick ’ s Cathedral. Can you believe this, as Halloween approaches ?
17 Coastal erosion and flooding in Rush Is Rush in danger of slipping into the Irish Sea ? As coastal erosion and climate change alters our landscape, Fingal County Council is planning a series of defences for the Rogerstown area. We summarise their findings so far.
24 World ’ s Worst Poet Was Irish “ For the stronger we our houses do build, The less chance we have of being killed. ”
Anyone who could write the above lines in a poem about a railway disaster has either a streak of genius or madness. William McGonagle was Irish (but no county admits to being his birthplace). Read his poem “ The Tay Bridge Disaster ”
All the local news, photos, & much more in Rush Times this month
P4 P6
Editorial
P22 Hero of the month P23 Grow it yourself: Apples P24 World ’ s Worst Poet P26 Death Notices P27 Astronomy, (An Lár)
P28 Britney ’ s Diary P29 Science, Fred Hoyle P31 It happened in October P32 Recipe: Vegetarian curry P33 News from the Council
A letter from America
P8 Who will bell the cat ? P12 Does your local look like this ? P14 Don ’ t believe your eyes
3
Editorial Liam Gavin
Once in a very blue moon ….
We had a packed mailbag (email bag actually) this month, and it ’ s nice to see that so many people are taking the time to let us know what they are thinking about the topics of the day. We were glad to hear from our old friend and “ Man Down Under ”, Gerry Coleman, who had a fascinating story to tell, and this is a “ must - read ” item already pencilled in for the November issue. It was also great to get feedback on the contents of the magazine, and we thank everyone who sent in photos. Please, please, please don ’ t let the old cameraphone sit in your pocket. If you see something interesting around the town, snap it, and send it to liamggavin2@gmail.com People on our mailing list were sent an email during the month, asking if they had “ anything to say ” in relation to the magazine, the town, activities, clubs etc. Thanks to everyone who responded, including the person who answered the request “ Have you anything to say ”?, with the pithy reply “ Not a thing ”. Brevity in expressing yourself is something many people are not blessed with, but this person has it off to a fine art. Sadly, several writers wanted to comment on the mindless acts of vandalism, which damaged two potentially life saving defibrillators in the town at the end of August. The German language has a word for what people might feel if they heard that someone belonging to one of the idiots who carried out these acts had a heart attack and was denied the chance to survive as a result. That word is schadenfreude, meaning “ pleasure derived by someone from another person ’ s misfortune. ” Some people might find it difficult not to experience a sense of shadenfreude if, as they say in Rush, “ what goes around comes around, ” and the vandals ever actually needed an AED for someone in their own family. We would like to believe that we would not allow a rueful smile to cross our own lips in such circumstances, but all can say with certainty is that we hope the AED ’ s are back in action soon, so we are never put in that position.
Our main feature this month is about something that we hope only happens once in a blue moon, namely a serious weather event that results in flooding all along our coast.
Unfortunately, over the past few years, we ’ ve seen a lot of “ once in 100 year ”, or even “ once in 200 year ” events like this, as our planet suffers the effects of climate change. Of course, the conspiracy theorists, simpletons, and Healy Reas of this world continue to deny the combined work of virtually every report and scientific study, and they prefer to believe that, like COVID - 19, climate change is some sort of scam perpetrated by some mysterious power that wants to force us all into some sort of slavery or submission. Thankfully, wiser heads prevail in the offices of Fingal County Council, and a comprehensive (if flawed) study is being carried out on the effects of climate change and coastal erosion in the Rogerstown area. We report on the report, starting on page 17, and if anyone wants to report on the report of the report, they are invited to report to Fingal County Council, which may include the report of the report of the report in a further report.
(Sorry, got a bit carried away there. I ’ ll drink some iced water and start again).
On a separate and vaguely related topic, this month sees an actual “ blue moon ” event.
In any month in which there are two full moons, the second one is commonly called a “ blue moon ”. To be a little pedantic about it, this is actually incorrect. A blue moon is actually the third full moon in an astronomical season containing 4 full moons. Our “ Blue Moon ” is on 31st October, and the next one doesn ’ t occur until 31st August, 2023.
After that, you have to wait until 31st May, 2026, with the next on New Year ’ s Eve, 2028.
Enjoy this month ’ s issue, and keep writing in.
Liam
4
Local News: Vandalism puts lives at risk
Numerous posts on Facebook describe the perpetrators as “ scumbags, morons, mindless idiots, disgusting, bottom feeders, ” and worse. Jamie also tells us that the AED at St. Catherines was also vandalised. Alan Hanratty, of Rush First Responders, mentioned on Facebook that they had been receiving comments and messages complaining that some of the AED ’ s are not being accessible, not being maintained properly, and not properly registered and up to date. Alan confirms that this is absolutely NOT the case. Rush First Responders ensures that all AED ’ s around the town are fully and properly maintained, and all paperwork is fully up to date. He also mentions that inaccurate and negative comments such as these are disheartening to the volunteers who put in so much time and effort to protect our citizens. And as a final on related matters, some people might be reluctant to attempt mouth to mouth for fear of contracting COVID - 19. Be assured that you can still save a life without the need to use mouth to mouth. Here ’ s what to do if you witness an adult suddenly collapse.
Mindless Vandalism Could Cost Lives Jamie Bollard, of Rush First Responders, reports that an AED case outside Supervalu was vandalised sometime between 2 pm on Saturday 29th August and 1 pm the following day. Supervalu has CCTV footage, and the Gardai are investigating. If anyone has dash - cam footage of the area from those times, could they please pass this on to the Gardai.
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5
Letters to the Editor
Hi Liam,
Something that has stood out to me is how well Tesco have dealt with the pandemic - I can't speak for the other institutions I'm afraid as I've not been going out for the sake of it - getting in and out of Tesco has been seamless and the place is kept spotless - very well done to all the staff. As a new member of the community (moved to Rush at the beginning of the year) I have had some great experiences with the following; Boylans Butchers - the quality and range of food in there is super. The library - beautiful building, unfortunately can't sit in but it is a nice experience going up there The people - despite the rough situation were in the people are friendly and welcoming no matter where I've gone - definitely looking forward to getting out and about when the pandemic passes and getting to know the community a bit better. Only interesting photo I can share is one I took early June walking along the rocks from South to North beaches - snapped these fellas on my phone through my binoculars (didn't want to get too close) My only gripe is after having a lovely look at Neptune earlier in the year the pandemic struck so we haven't had a chance to meet up with the astronomy group since - will look forward to that getting back up and running for sure.
Hi Liam,
I have received your Rush News digitally for a few years now and I thoroughly enjoy it. I would like to continue to receive the paper digitally so if you could please tell me how I can use my credit card to purchase a subscription that would be great. I live in the US so I am not sure if and which credit card you will accept. My grandfather was born in Rush and his family before him going back to at least the mid 1700's. I have been doing my Monks Family genealogy for ten years now and I love reading about and seeing photos of his home town. I was lucky enough to visit Rush last year and was able to meet my cousins. Louis, Joe, Eric and Maisie Monks as well as their spouses were wonderful hosts. I hope to return one day and just walk around the town and absorb it all. I hope you will be able to send me the issue for September because I would love to read the article about the epidemic.
I look forward to your response. Ellen Monks Monteforte
Best regards (Karl, Full name & address with Editor)
Editor Replies Dear Ellen,
Thank you for your letter. It ’ s always great to hear from people living abroad who have Rush connections, and it ’ s so encouraging to think that in some small way, Rush Times is a little link back to Ireland. I ’ m sure many members of your extended family will see your letter, and for them it will bring back happy memories of your last visit, and a reminder to put the kettle on in good time for the next occasion when you drop in.
To subscribe for an online version (36 pages) just send € 24 by Paypal to liamggavin2@gmail.com
Best regards,
Liam
READ THIS ISSUE ONLINE AT: https://online.flippingbook.com/view/1036899/
6
COVID - 19 Timeline. Keep this as a permanent record
Aug 26, 2020 Aug 27, 2020 Aug 28, 2020 Aug 29, 2020 Aug 30, 2020 Aug 31, 2020 Sep 01, 2020 Sep 02, 2020 Sep 03, 2020 Sep 04, 2020 Sep 05, 2020 Sep 06, 2020 Sep 07, 2020 Sep 08, 2020 Sep 09, 2020 Sep 10, 2020 Sep 11, 2020 Sep 12, 2020 Sep 13, 2020 Sep 14, 2020 Sep 15, 2020 Sep 16, 2020 Sep 17, 2020 Sep 18, 2020 Sep 19, 2020 Sep 20, 2020 Sep 21, 2020 Sep 22, 2020 Sep 23, 2020 Sep 24, 2020 Sep 25, 2020
92 new cases, no deaths. Phil Hogan ’ s account of movements at golf event doubted 164 cases. Outbreaks in family homes doubled in a week. Lockdown being discussed Gardai to have power to close pubs and crackdown on house parties that defy rules 142 cases. Dr. de Gascun warns second lockdown cannot be ruled out. 42 cases, no deaths. 71% of cases under 45 years old. 53 new cases. Kildare lockdown ends. Most schools re - open today. 217 cases, highest since May, but Dr. Glynn says moving average relatively stable. “ Rural Ireland is not the problem. Ye in Dublin are the problem ”, says Limerick TD 95 cases, no deaths. Half of new cases are in Dublin, and 75% in people under 45 98 cases, no deaths. Publicans furious over being told to keep food receipts for 28 days No deaths since August 22nd. Govt. plans to re - open all pubs by middle of month All pubs to be allowed to open from Sept 21. Cases increasing in Dublin & Limerick 102 new cases, but Ireland has joint lowest death rate in Europe 307 new cases (highest since mid - May). Huge concern over rates in Dublin & Limerick 84 cases, 3 deaths amid warning that Dublin infections set to double in 14 days Cases growing at 4% per day in Dublin. Talk of partial lockdown being required 211 cases. 1 death. Dublin has 84 cases per 100,000 (among highest in Europe) 159 cases, 2 deaths. Taoiseach “ won ’ t be afraid to implement measures in Dublin ” Gardai stepping up high visibility patrols, especially in Dublin. Five stage plan on managing COVID - 19 to be announced tomorrow. 208 more cases, no deaths. Dublin faces extra restrictions due to high number of cases Entire cabinet and Chief Med.Officer self - isolating as Min.for Health seeks COVID test 254 case, 3 deaths. Dublin braced for lockdown L.3 with over 50% of all cases nationally Publicans, restaurants all complaining about restrictions. Numbers continue to rise 274 more cases. Balbriggan has 150 cases NPHET wanted to move Dublin to Level 4, but feared Government would refuse 396 cases yesterday, highest since mid - May. Medics say Ireland walking into crisis 188 new cases announced this morning. Possibility other counties to go Leve 3 soon 234 cases, 2 deaths. NPHET says new restrictions not slowing down spread of virus Germany declares Dublin a “ High Risk area. Visitors from Dublin must isolate for 10 days Donegal moves to Level 3. Infection rates in Stranolar rocket upwards
GOLFGATE IN PICTURES
Gerry looks glum
Dara says “ bye ”
Seamus digs in hoping to improve his lie (gettit ?)
Big Phil shows how not to keep your eye on the ball
“ Phil said he missed this short putt ”
7
FACE MASKS: Who will bell the cat ?
Kudos to our two local supermarkets, Tesco and SuperValu, for the way they have quietly and efficiently adapted to the problems caused by COVID - 19 Staff in supermarkets should be thought of as frontline workers, playing an essential role in keeping the show on the road, and putting themselves right in the firing line day in day out. It is not unreasonable that they don ’ t want to take on the extra role of policing compliance with the mandatory wearing of face masks. The CEO of Convenience Stores and Newsagent ’ s Association, Vincent Jennings, has advised retailers not to engage with anyone not wearing a mask. He insisted that there are “ no circumstances ” in which a shop worker should tell a customer to wear a face covering. Retail Ireland ’ s Chief Executive Arnold Dillon also says that enforcement should be “ left to the appropriate authorities ”, adding that “ it is crucial that it does not fall to retail staff to ensure compliance ”. Someone should do something (but who?) On a recent visit to one of our two supermarkets, I counted 48 shoppers in the premises. 7 were not wearing face masks, and 2 more had them down around their chin. That worked out at a compliance rate of 78% which is a far cry from the “ almost total ” compliance claimed by the Minister for Justice. The minister kicks for touch when asked if the Gardai will enforce the law, and at the time this is being written, she is unaware of any prosecutions or charges being made. The simple fact is that no politician will want to appear on TV to talk about how someone who will no doubt portray themselves as a “ victim of oppression ” has been fined, or worse, imprisoned for non - compliance. And as long as that is the case, mask wearing will be effectively optional.
On our visit to the local supermarket, we were told by a member of staff that a dictat had come down “ from head office ” saying that they were to ignore anyone not wearing a mask, and under no circumstances were they to even mention it to the customer.
So we thought it would be helpful to contact both Tesco and SuperValu to see what their official policy was.
On 19th August, we emailed the head offices of both supermarkets, asking them to confirm their policy on enforcing the wearing of masks.
The reply received from SuperValu is printed below. Tesco did not reply.
Hi Liam,
Thank you for taking the time to get in contact with us.
It is mandatory to wear a face covering in - store, with the exception of people who are unable to wear them in line with Government guidance and children under 13.
If a customer was not wearing a face covering in store, it is because they are unable to wear them as per the conditions outlined in Government guidance. They would have confirmed this with a colleague before entering the store. The Government guidance can be viewed here https://www.gov.ie/en/publication/ aac74c - guidance - on - safe - use - of - face - coverings Should you have any queries please contact us by webchat on www.supervalu.ie, email at onlinehelp@supervalu.ie or by phone on 1890 456 828. Kind regards, Gearoid
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RUSH TIMES
Do you have a story to tell ? Or a joke ? Or some old photos of Rush ? Or a poem ? Or some scandal about your neighbours that you would like to share around ? OK. Only joking about the last one, but if you would like to contribute material for YOUR community magazine, please contact the editor, Liam Gavin, at 086 - 2584302 or liamggavin2@gmail.com
9
The Tale of The Faithful Dog: A story for Halloween
October is the month of Halloween, ghost stories, and tales of things that go “ bump ” in the night.
This is a well documented story, sourced from www.irisshcultureand customs.com and apparently with many witnesses. Make of it what you will.
On the night of Saturday 8th February, 1861, the Irish Sea was swept by one of the worst gales of the century. The harbour at Dun Laoghaire, was littered with debris and the wreckage of battered vessels. Scores of drowned seamen were found on the shoreline. Three stricken vessels, the Neptune, the Industry, and the Mary , were trying to get to the safety of the harbour. The Neptune smashed against the East Pier, with all its crew thrown into the water. The rescue effort was led by Captain John McNeill Boyd was a Derry native who joined the Royal Navy in 1825, aged just 13. He worked his way up the ranks, becoming a Captain in 1856. He served as Lieutenant on several vessels before joining the HMS Superb as second in command, and he was appointed captain of the HMS Conway in 1857. A year later, he became Captain of HMS Ajax and commander of the Dublin District of the Irish Coast Guard. Captain Boyd and three of his men set out in a lifeboat from the Ajax to try and rescue sailors clinging to the rocks. As always, the Captain's faithful companion, a black Newfoundland dog, accompanied him. While they were on the rocks trying to save the men, the Captain and three of his men were swept away by a giant wave. When another lifeboat from the Ajax went to search for Captain Boyd and his men, the only living thing they found was the Captain's dog who was still in the Captain's lifeboat. Captain Boyd's body was finally recovered and he was given one of the biggest funerals ever seen in Dublin. The requiem Mass was held in St. Patrick's Cathedral; afterwards, the funeral procession made its way to Glasnevin Cemetery. The entire time, the Captain's dog stayed beside his master's coffin. At the cemetery, when the grave was filled in, the Captain's devoted companion lay on top and refused to move. He also refused to eat or drink and eventually, he died of starvation. A short time later, a memorial statue to Captain Boyd was erected in the Cathedral by the people of Dublin. Many times since then, a black Newfoundland dog has been seen sitting at the base of the statue. The ghost has also been seen lying on his master ’ s grave at nearby Glasnevin Cemetery, and at the base of his statue in the Cathederal, by many, including former Dean, Very Rev. David Wilson. Boyd was posthumously awarded the RNLI Silver Medal, the Tayleur Fund Gold Medal and the Sea Gallantry Medal.
A memorial on the East Pier at Dun Laoghaire was erected by the Royal St George Yacht Club near the site of the disaster. There is a memorial in Christ Church, Cheltenham, where his brother was minister, erected by members of the congregation of the church, and another in St Columb ’ s Cathedral in Derry, his birthplace.
10
Rebecca Rustler Valerie Malone
Mary Anne Flaherty reached for her iPhone to learn that a child had fled from her foster father at four a.m. after being ‘ molested ’ by him! The girl was in emergency care now. Feeling deeply for the girl Mary Anne, Senior Foster Care and Adoption Social Worker, Mercy Social Services wondered how to help the child? Who should she choose as foster parents? The best people she could find. Such thoughts kept her awake all night and she was glad when time came to go to work. Upon arrival, the place was abuzz with talk of what happened the night before. Sensing the need to move cautiously she assigned the case to Marion Maloney SW, deciding to supervise the case closely herself. Explaining things to Marion they set off to collect the child and settle her with her new foster parents. At the end of the long room stood Rebecca Rustler (12) garbed in pyjamas and holding her teddy bear. ‘ You poor child ’ said Marion, ‘ Are you cold? Did you have breakfast? ’ The child shook her head and Mary Anne said ‘ Right. Would you like to come with us, and we will get you some food and clothes? ’ The child nodded and seemed to brighten at the prospect. The official ‘ handing over ’ took ten minutes and then they were on their way. A café provided cereal, tea, and toast. Rebecca was ravenous. Next stop Dunnes where suitable outfits were bought – one proudly donned by Rebecca as they left the shop. Ted and Joan McDonagh were Mary Anne ’ s choice of foster parents for Rebecca. With the agency for twenty years, they fostered a hundred children + and had an unblemished record of love, care and concern for each child – the vast majority of whom remained in the McDonagh household until they were able to fend for themselves. Ted and Joan answered the door and gave a warm welcome to all three, being extra gracious to Rebecca whom they felt was traumatised after her experiences. Marion explained that as the assigned social worker she would call the following day. After Rebecca was shown her room everyone chatted over a relaxing cuppa. Upon returning to her office Mary Anne phoned Rebecca ’ s previous social worker from Riverside Social Services who said ‘ I am totally baffled by this. Tony Moran, the foster father in question is one of our best foster dads and is greatly loved by his foster children. We have known him for eighteen years there ’ s never even been a glitch before and now this - molestation! ’ Ten minutes later Mary Anne rang off and wondered again about Rebecca Rustler. Her secretary buzzed her to say that Mrs. Rustler wanted to see her downstairs.
ushering her into an interview room. ‘ I ’ m Mary Anne Flaherty, can I get you anything? ’ she asked and got two coffees from the machine before finally settling down to talk to Rebecca ’ s mother wondering why Rebecca was in care when her mother was apparently so well and capable. ‘ Rebecca phoned me about what happened ’ said Mrs. Rustler. ‘ So, I came at once. I hope you have kitted my daughter out with a new wardrobe. We can ’ t have a child going around half naked now, can we? That man must be punished. I hope this agency is better than that last one. I want you to keep me informed of everything that happens. Everything. Do you understand? ’ ‘ Certainly ’, replied Mary Anne before asking ‘ Is Rebecca ’ s father around ’? ‘ Yes, he is working and couldn ’ t come, but I ’ m here, ’ she answered. Mary Anne was relieved when the seventy - minute interview was over. Later she contacted Riverside Agency again and the other two agencies where Rebecca had been a foster child. Next day Marion visited Rebecca and with her foster parents they discussed where she might attend school. She also notified them of Rebecca ’ s medical checks etc. They spent much time seeing to all the child ’ s needs and wants. Meantime Mary Anne arranged a meeting with all Rebecca ’ s previous social workers and learned much about the child, her family, and their use of social work agencies. Next, she arranged a meeting attended by Rebecca, both parents, all her previous foster parents, and social workers. After outlining what had happened Mary Anne finished, ‘ After hearing what happened in each agency – that having being kitted out with a complete new wardrobe you claimed to have been ‘ molested ’ by your foster father and demanded a change to another agency. ‘ I put it to you Rebecca that you were not ‘ molested ’ by any of the foster fathers concerned. That your parents told you what to do and say and, in the process, garnered from the state new clothes in excess of € 10,000.’
The ensuing silence was broken only by the rustling noises of the Rustler family trying to leave the room!
‘ Hello Mrs. Rustler, it ’ s good to meet you ’ she said
11
Local News: Does your local look like this ?
Fáilte Ireland has published an image of how a so - called “ wet pub ” is supposed to look now that restrictions have been eased. It ’ s been a while since the editor visited a pub (even longer than the shutdown), but the image below raises more questions than it answers. If readers can help the very confused editor, he would like any comments on the following.
lady, maybe the barman could suggest that the girl on the stool might like to join one of the groups, to reduce the number of “ third wheels ” in the pub. Of course, that might break social distancing requirements, but if this pub is supposed to be in Rush, they are probably all related to each other anyway. And finally, where are all the lonely “ oul fellas ” that have been missing their pint ’ o ’ plain and whiskey chaser ? My solution would be to move the girl at the counter to one of the other tables; throw out the fellow in the suit for offences against fashion; let his companion go home because she doesn ’ t look like she ’ s enjoying herself anyway; and let two oul ’ fellas in out of the cold for a couple of hot whiskey ’ s and a moan about the state of the world.
First, have pubs stopped serving draught beer ? There don ’ t seem to be any taps on the counter.
Second, could someone tell the young man in the blue suit to dress a bit more casually. He ’ s on a night out, for God ’ s sake. And tell him to buy the lady a drink, because she looks like she ’ s about to get up, and I doubt if she ’ s planning on coming back to him. Third, tell the barman to stop flirting with that young lady, and go to the table at the bottom of the picture, because one of the customers has no drink. And as for the two tables that have two chaps and one
It ’ s enough to drive you to drink.
12
BOYLANS FAMILY BUTCHER
Back by popular demand ! Turkey Roulades, € 1.50 each Lamb Roulades, € 1.50 each
Petrol, Diesel, Oil, Gas, Logs, Newspapers, Convenience Store Stockists of Rush Times
13
Out and about in Rush By Oscar Fingal
On his travels around Rush, Oscar Fingal noticed that four previously derelict houses on the main street had all received a very welcome coat of paint, shiny new doors, replacement windows, and a couple were even sporting beautiful displays of flowers. Oscar likes to think he knows everything that ’ s happening around the town, and he was surprised at how well these houses were looking, considering he didn ’ t even know they had been occupied after many years of decay. So he decided to knock on one of the doors to congratulate the owner. It was only then that he copped on ! All the windows, doors and flowers were actually computer generated images, made to fit the openings, and they had been attached to the wooden panels covering the old windows and doors. The effect is extremely realistic, and while we wait for the properties to be redeveloped, anyone passing along the main street who was not aware of what had been done would almost certainly just assume that they were well maintained, occupied houses, except of course for the house that is missing it ’ s roof.
A number of readers contacted Rush Times to draw our attention to the work that had been done, and asked us to congratulate those responsible, and we are more than happy to comply with his request, but remember that
the work done was commissioned by the developer of the site, Rushbury Properties. We understand that although the appearance of the site is a vast improvement, it changes nothing as far as being on the Derelict Site Register is concerned, with an annual 7% levy accruing on the full value of the site till the site is cleared and works begin. We did attempt to find out exactly who is the beneficial owner of Rushbury Properties, but to our inexperienced eyes there seemed to be a complicated network of companies owned by other companies, and as these sites have seemingly become a permanent eyesore in the town, we would love to know whether any of the “ Captains of Commerce ” in Rush is involved. Can anyone throw any light on this little mystery ?
14 15
Puzzle Page
What is the next number in this sequence ?
FOOD CUPBOARD QUIZ
1.
In which decade was the Mars Bar launched ?
1, 2, 6, 24, 120 ...
2.
What has been “ good to the last drop ” since 1907 ? From which fruit is the liquer Calvados made ?
3.
4.
Are figs fruit or vegetable ?
5.
What is the most stolen food in the world ?
6.
What food was invented by a gambling Earl who was on a 24 hour streak, and didn ’ t want to take a break for food ? A quarter of all the world ’ s hazelnut crop is used to make what ? What fast food menu item always comes in 4 shapes, called the boot, the ball, the bone and the bell ? How many hot dogs are consumed in the United States of America every year. Is it a) 200 million, b) 2 billion, or c) 20 billion ?
7.
8.
9.
10.
What is the only food that never goes “ off ” ?
In the Harry Potter books, the Daily Prophet Newspaper had pictures that moved. Anything they can do, Rush Times can do better. Look carefully at the coloured picture below and try to convince yourself it ’ s not moving.
15
Beautiful Wedding Flowers
“Just Call Christine”
Bird of Paradise, Main Street, Rush.
Tel: 8438495 Email: mcguinnesschristine@gmail.com
www.birdofparadise.ie
16
Coastal Flooding & Erosion in Rush By Liam Gavin
The planning and Strategic Infrastructure Department of Fingal County Council has commissioned a report on “ Options for addressing Coastal Flood Risk Management in the Rogerstown Estuary. ” The full report deals with coastal erosion and flooding in the Burrow Peninsula, Portrane and Rush. The report can be viewed at https://consultationspace.com/Rogerstown/.
This report was produced in association with the Fingal Coastal Liaison Group. This group is made up of County Councillors, Council Officials and Community Representatives from relevant coastal areas in Fingal. More details relating to the working of the Group are available at https://www.fingal.ie/council/service/fingal - coastal - liaison - group The Council arranged a series of both virtual and actual public meetings during September, and people living in the affected areas were invited to attend. The report runs to 38 pages, split between dealing with the problems at The Burrow, Donabate, Portrane and Rush, and the purpose of this article is simply to review some of the main points made in the report, as it applies to our own town. The writer stresses that while this article draws on the Fingal County Council Report, it is a personal view, and it does not attempt to represent the “ official ” position of the council. The Problem in Rush Due to the combination of climate change, raising sea levels, and human activity, our coastline is in a state of change. The evolution of our coasts has been going on for millions of years, as our planet itself evolves and changes. Only a few thousand years ago, it would have been possible to walk from Rush to Lambay Island, and it should come as no surprise to anybody that the shape of our coastline is ever changing. This never seems to occur to people who have a hardwired desire to build homes and develop communities as close to the shoreline as possible, and it has been ever thus. But with the rate of coastal erosion and rising sea levels that we have now, people are finding that the sea is edging closer and closer to their homes. The number of “ once in a lifetime ” storms, floods, and major weather events seems to be increasing, and we need to consider how to protect homes that are likely to suffer the effects of climate change. The report identified eleven different protection measures that required evaluation. Three were immediately dismissed as they were technically unsuitable for this area. Other measures, such as a seawall, building embankments, dune stabilisation, and beach nourishment all had possibilities, and usually some potential drawbacks as well. It also had to be borne in mind that Rogerstown
Estuary is a Special Area of Conservation and a Special Protection Area under the EU Habitats Directive and EU Birds Directive. This meant that some of the “ hard engineered ” coastal protection measures could not be considered. Rush South For the Rush South area, a combination of flood wall, flood gates, and culverts was found to be the most suitable solution. When the effects of sea level rises and potential floods were analysed, this strategy was found to provide a 1 in 200 year standard of protection against flooding and erosion. It also had minimal impact on coastal processes, and it provided a value for money solution that protected the local economy.
This solution would involve regular maintenance, and it could impact on the designated area.
For as long as many people can remember, the Spout Road has been regularly flooded in times of even relatively heavy rainfall. The river flowing down past the disused mill at the bottom of Beau Hill becomes a torrent, running under the road at the junction of the Spout Road and the main road to Lusk. When this co - incides with high tides and an onshore wind, the fields on the seaward side of the Spout Road become inundated, and the road floods.
The plan concentrates on the Rush South area, which scientists believe is at the greatest danger.
Rush North The flooding risk is much less along the North Beach, and it was considered that a monitoring programme, reviewed every 5 years, would be sufficient over the short to long term. Owing to the limited erosion and flood risk for Rush North, the preferred option is for No Active Intervention, with five yearly reviews as climate change trends and local effects may change over time. It is considered that over the short to medium term, there is minimal risk to property along the North Beach area, but depending on future climate change, there is a small likelihood that up to 6 building could be affected by erosion.
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Coastal Flooding & Erosion in Rush By Liam Gavin
Next Steps Following the series of virtual and physical information meetings, and Environmental Impact Assessment and Appropriate Assessment is to be carried out with a view to completion by April 2021, and after that, the project will start the planning application process. This will have to demonstrate that there are imperative reasons of overriding public interest (called IROPI), and only if it passes this process can construction begin. It is worth noting that only one project has EVER been successful in gaining planning permission in this way. Rush South The plan for Rush South, an area encompassing the Spout Road, leading to the Sailing Club, and surrounding areas, involves a combination of flood defences.
An 850 m long seawall, floodgates, and building a network of culverts to divert the rivers is certainly a major project, and one which will have a significant impact on the area for generations to come. For a project of this size, the Council is keen to “ bring the people on board ”, hence the series of information meetings, which unfortunately have had to be be reorganized due to the COVID - 19 situation. Done properly, these defences can be made into an attractive feature, but done badly, they could be an eyesore of epic proportions. But one way or another, something HAS to be done, because the threat of climate change is not an idle one. It is
happening all around us, and it is up to the people involved, particularly those who will be living in the affected areas, to study the plans, and make their feelings known, before work commences. Acknowledgement: Photos, maps and illustrations taken from the Fingal County Council consultation document, available at https://consultationspace.com/ Rogerstown/ For further information, contact the Council at coast@fingal.ie WHEN YOU READ THIS, AND MAYBE READ THE COUNCIL REPORT, YOU MIGHT THINK THAT THE MATTER IS ALL IN HAND, AND EVERYONE KNOWS WHAT THEY ARE DOING. IF YOU THNK THAT WAY THEN GOD BLESS YOUR INNOCENCE. NOW READ ON...
Channel Rd
Whitesown Rd
Spout Rd
Sailing Club
Potential Flood Risk shown in green
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And now, a view from someone who know the area inside - out and who isn ’ t fobbed off easily...
IF YOU READ NOTHING ELSE IN THIS MONTH ’ S RUSH TIMES,
READ THIS
daily tidal movements were the first they had seen of such water levels in the area.
Cllr. Brian Dennehy Email: Brian.Dennehy@cllrs.fingal.ie
I produced details of all planning permissions granted by FCC to housing along the 2.2 Km stretch, where many are currently in serious danger from coastal erosion due to the increased rising water levels. Many planning permissions were granted very recently and I pointed out that FCC now have a moral obligation to provide coastal erosion prevention measures for these houses. An environmental disaster is inevitable if protection measures are not installed in front of the section of dunes at Rush Golf Club, where less than 30 mtrs of dunes now remain as the only preventative measure to avoid the area involved from being turned into a giant lake. That in turn would put the housing in close proximity to Rush Golf Club in grave danger. The consultants also failed to include any information regarding the possible negative effects created for the Rush area, arising from erosion preventative measures being proposed elsewhere. The idea of carrying out protection measures on one side only and ignoring the opposite side is surely morally wrong and dangerous. The overall concept and ethos of the plan was not to carry out work in one area without working out the negative implications for other areas involved. At the conclusion of my July meeting with the staff and consultants it was agreed that, because of the important issues I had raised regarding the effects at Rush, a further site meeting will take place in September. The South Beach Coastal erosion measures will be back on the drawing board and agenda. The issues I have raised about the seven separate locations involved at South Beach are being taken on board in reviewing the provision of coastal erosion measures required at South Beach, Rush. To date I have not been notified of any change of plan in that regard. I have and will put up a strong argument to promote coastal erosion protection measures on the South Beach Rush.
The recent July meeting of the Fingal Coastal Liaison Group was solely given over to a discussion of the 2.2 km. stretch of the South Beach, Rush and what information the consultants used in determining their findings regarding coastal erosion measures in the area. I pointed out at previous meetings, and through correspondence with the Fingal County Manager, Director of Planning and Chairman of the Coastal Erosion liaison Group, that as far as I was concerned, the report was seriously flawed with regard to the South Beach. It was putting the South Beach in Rush in very serious environmental danger. Throughout the meeting I broke the Beach into several different areas along the 2.2km stretch of beach. I outlined and challenged the information and understanding the consultants had regarding the South Beach. I had compiled a detailed written report on each section of the South Beach and backed everything up with photo ’ s taken on each section. Several of what I would consider as vital items were clearly absent from the research information used in the report. The most important of these being the absence of the findings of the erosion measurement study on the South Beach, Rush, taken in recent years. The black poles used in this research project are still in place now on the South Beach. The consultants were also unaware that the rock armour, placed last year alongside the South Beach Carpark by Irish Water as conditioned by their planning permission for the Rush Sewage Network scheme failed, to survive the storms in January this year. Irish Water had been instructed by FCC to rehabilitate the work. This was carried out onsite recently. The fact that the rock armour failed is proof positive that the area suffers from extreme coastal erosion, as I pointed out at the meeting. I highlighted the case of housing at the Rogerstown end of the South Beach which are extremely vulnerable to coastal erosion. The pictures I produced covering the
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Coastal Flooding & Erosion in Rush By Brian Dennehy
At face value the proposed flood protection measures for the Rogerstown inner estuary look positive but the contribution of residents of Rush would be invaluable in this regard. Unfortunately, the consultants name the area as the South Beach which is rather confusing as residents of Rush as well as FCC refer to the area North of the sailing club as the South Beach Rush. I have pointed out to the consultants that there is also required along with the current measures proposed in the flood defence wall that rock armour is required to be placed at the estuary side of the Rush Sailing Club boat yard to stop the erosion that is currently occurring.
TO MAKE A SUBMISSION
Submissions/Observations can be made as follows: • Online at https://consult.fingal.ie or • Email to coast@fingal.ie • In writing: Senior Executive Officer, Planning and Strategic Infrastructure Department, Fingal County Council, County Hall, Main St., Swords, Co. Dublin, K67X8Y2. Please make your submission by one medium only i.e. in hard copy or online or by E - mail. Any submission or observation shall state your name, address and where relevant, the body or organisations represented. I would encourage all concerned residents of Rush to submit representations to protect and preserve one of Rush ’ s most valuable and cherished amenities. The volume of submissions has and will have a major effect on the future direction of measures implemented as has previously occurred with Public Consultations reports for Malahide Castle and more recently with the Harry Reynolds Road in Balbriggan.
Brian Dennehy
DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS: 5pm Friday 16th October 2020
IS THIS OUR FUTURE ?
Flooding on Channel Road, 2002 (pic Fingal Co. Council)
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Rush Times is a not - for - profit Community Newsletter for the people of Rush, published and edited by Liam Gavin. The magazine receives no financial support from Rush Community Council, Fingal County Council, or anyone else, so it is a totally independent voice for the people of Rush. Views expressed in the magazine are those of the authors, and they do not necessarily reflect the views of the editor. The magazine is funded through advertising, subscriptions to the online version, and sales of the magazine. Retailers take no margin, and all sales revenue is re - invested into the magazine. The deadline for submission of articles, ads, photos etc is the 15th of the month prior to publication. All ads must be paid in advance of publication. No guarantee can be given as to when or if anything submitted will be published. The editor reserves the right to edit material. Subscription rates are: - PRICES AND SUBSCRIPTIONS Retail Price in shop € 3.00 Retail Price inc. home delivery €4.00 Phone 086 - 2584302 to arrange home delivery Subscription to digital edition for 12 consecutive issues costs € 24.00 payable by Paypal or Direct Bank Transfer Subscription to printed edition for 12 consecutive issues, costs €33.00 and includes the digital edition (full magazine), and free home delivery anywhere with a Rush (K56) Eircode
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Heroes of the month
It ’ s no contest for who deserves the award of Heroes of the month for October.
After months out of school, keeping up the studying, and then being told the exams were cancelled, followed by regular changes in how grades were to be assessed, and all the stresses that ensued, our heroes of the month just have to be the parents and families of this year ’ s Leaving Cert students (but mainly the students themselves).
Hackett ’ s Family Butchers, Main Street, Rush, Tel: 01 - 8437139 Quality Beef, Lamb, Pork, Bacon and Poultry Suppliers Free Home Delivery Service
FROM THE FARM
FOR YOUR FREEZER
½ side of lamb, packed to order
€ 69.99
30 Farm Fresh Eggs ONLY € 4.50
½ side of pork, packed to order
€ 69.99
5 large chickens
€ 25.00
10 lb Round Mince Steak
€ 45.00
NOW TAKING ORDERS FOR FREE RANGE TURKEYS & ALL YOUR FESTIVE MEATS
25 Kg Rush Potatoes ONLY € 10.00
“Stay Safe Everybody”
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Grow It Yourself: Apples Pat Burke
“ The revolution is not an apple that falls when it is ripe. You have to make it fall ” Che Guevara
Katya), Charles Ross, Worcester Pearmain. It ’ s worthwhile researching a little bit and find out which varieties do best in your own area. The Irish Seed Savers Association in Co. Clare will also be very helpful in recommending their best heritage varieties (irishseedsavers.ie). Apple trees are available as bare root trees until early March. They cost about half the amount compared to containerised plants. Bare root simply means that the trees have been dug up from the nursery, packed in a bag with damp peat. Check out https://futureforests.ie/ collections/irish - heritage - apples for online purchases. Dig a planting hole about 60cm in diameter and about 40cm deep and mix some old garden compost with the existing soil. Drive in the stake firmly and then place the tree next to the stake. Every tree has a pretty face so you should turn it around a few times to see where it looks best. The stake should be on the side of the prevailing wind. When you plant make sure that the soil level is like it was in the nursery. You should never bury the grafting union. First loosely fill the soil around and make sure it fills all spaces. Every now and again firm the soil with your heels. When finished fix a tie near the top of the stake. Mulch the soil around the tree with garden compost in early spring and prune in winter to keep a desired shape and allow air to circulate around the inner branches. Doing this will help avoid two common diseases of scab and canker and make it possible to grow apple trees organically. Article material sourced from https://giy.ie/archive/ growing - apples1.html About Rush GIY Pat Burke helped establish Rush GIY (Grow It Yourself) in 2012 and advocates the growing of food at home, in allotments and community gardens. Rush GIY promotes a healthier, more sustainable, and more connected world where people grow their own food. This promotes community resilience in a future with declining fossil fuel resources and climate breakdown. Join our email list or get more information by contacting rushgiy@gmail.com or visit https://www.facebook.com/RushGIY/
With apologies to Che Guevara, the revolution I have in mind is one where the whole country starts to demand Irish apples rather than the imported varieties. 95% of apples sold in Ireland are imported even though our climate is perfect for growing them in sufficient quantities and variety. Worse still, the supermarkets purchase from large - scale growers who are thousands of miles from Ireland. So while the apple tree absorbs carbon, the apple itself racks up a lot of carbon miles and arrives in your basket wrapped in plastic. While we wait for that revolution, perhaps we can start our own by planting an apple tree. Now is a great time of year to do it. If you choose good varieties, a suitable rootstock and plant them properly you will get delicious fruits for many years – with hardly any work. You can ’ t just have a single apple tree – you need a suitable partner for pollination. Don ’ t forget your neighbour may already have an apple tree or there may be a wild crab apple nearby that will do the job. Failing that, just make sure to purchase two trees that flower at around the same time of year. There are three pollination groups: A, B and C (A being the earliest flowering and C the latest flowering types). Golden Delicious, Gala or Cox ’ s Orange Pippin don ’ t perform well in Ireland and are very susceptible to scab and need to be sprayed regularly with a fungicide. Better to seek out Discovery, Katy (or
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