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Martin Flanagan
Taking the plunge
Jan 26th
The year gone has brought many memories forward: most of which we would like to forget. 09 dragged with it the aftermath of tremendous weather and, to add fuel to fire, despite us being told that we are straddling the border between the recessions revival and deterioration, the economic conditions are still dire. In December of last year, the Economic and Social Research Institute predicted that the economy would show signs of recovery, despite the gloomy prediction that a further 76,000 people would lose their jobs this year.
The ESRI also predicted that 40,000 people are expected to migrate in search of work. In 2009 the ESRI was quoted as saying On employment, we expect a fall of 170,000 in 2009 and of 76,000 in 2010.Unemployment is forecast to average 11.75 per cent this year and to peak at close to 14 per cent in the latter part of 2010. We expect net outward migration to be 40,000 in the year ending April 2010.” The ESRI suggested that while the economy will sruggle, it expects that we should exit recession by the summer. Cynics, however, and those still hard done by, particularly those on lower income, will undoubtedly refuse to hold their breath on the basis of such a prediction. The feeling being: We have been told this again and again; we will believe it when we see it.
Students and former graduates are among the exodus of Irish people taking the plunge in search of work. The phrase overqulaified and unemployed is the motto being toted. So, instead of sitting around waiting on the economy to jolt, people are going where the work is where their skills will be aknowledged and recognised.
In the past people generally opted to move abroad for career progression purposes and career breaks, but in current times, it is a life choice due to lack of choice in Ireland. People are now more committed to moving abroad, less hasty on uprooting, and better armed educationally. The more qualified one is before embarking on any career move, the more of a chance they will have at being employed. It is important to have a solid idea of what you want to do, especially in the sense of interviews with prospective employers, as this is more attractive on your front. According to online threads dedicated to oversea employment, the following points are worth noting:
Renumeration: Ensure that there is a reasonable wage for the job that you are applying for, and dont confuse foreign currencies outside of the eurozone with your own in most cases it will disapoint., It is necessary to bear in mind that in some places the rate of living is much cheaper compared to Ireland.
Research: Discover prospective markets and research exactly what they are looking for. Ask questions such as: Do I have enough experience for that particular role? Is it possible to set in stone a role before arriving into the country of my choice? Is the company that I am applying to reputable and genuine? There have been horror stories whereby people have applied for jobs online, only to arrive at their destination and discover that they are the hell of the heavenly description they read beforehand. The old rule applies: If its too good to be true, then it most likely is.
Location: Online threads and personal accounts cite location as being a number one factor. They mention the importance of calculating the distance from a prospective job with the distance of accommodation which is also another factor worth taking into account. Secure accommodation is vital to surviving overseas.
Culture: Okay, so we all know that not everywhere runs as smooth or as awkward as it can in Ireland. Every country has its own ethics, morals and legal system. Example: Death by execution is still common in China. Tribes really do exist in Africa, and, yes, there are scarier bugs out there than daddy-long-legs. It is essential to have an open mind when visiting foreign countries; ignorance can get you into hot bother, just as much as those pesky language barriers. The key? Educate yourself as much as possible at least learn the bare basics where language is concerned, and dont be afraid to self-assess; it will paint a more detailed picture of the true you.
Networking: Are you familiar with the annoyingly effortless phrase Its not what you know, its who you know? This is true in the context of working abroad. The more people you know, the bigger chance you have at sustaining a career. Word of mouth is one of the strongest forms of communication, and an employer would rather take the less risk route by hiring somebody worthy of praise and repute. The jammy opportunist is the person with the sources and contacts. According to author Tim Leffel, who is also a columnist for transitions abroad magazine, the worst thing to do is be a wallflower. He advises people to Get out, meet people, and be open about your skills and the type of work you are looking for. Make yourself top of mind with people who can help you and dont be afraid to ask stupid questions.
Leffel cites the obvious: Go where the jobs are. He says: This seems obvious, but it is surprising how many travellers ignore this advice. For the most part, you will have better luck in big cities; business centres, and places where a lot of transactions are done in English. This can include resort areas, but only if thousands of foreigners are coming through at all times: an idyllic little island with two hotels is going to be much tougher.
On the Irish front, Canada and Australia appear to be the popular port of call; however, according to a recent article in the Irish Times, the splurge for visas to Canada is limiting the amount on supply. Australia offers a sweeping array of professions from computing professionals to quality surveyors. Western Australia has a long list of demands, says Edwina Shanahan from Visafirst.com. People with mining experience, locksmiths, metal fabricators, tilers, painters and toolmakers will all get migrant visas over there. According to Edwina, New South Wales, and the areas where there are the big cities like Melbourne and Sydney, its very hard to find work in order to settle down unless you have contacts.
Reports have dashed the hopes of people looking to travel to Canada but according to USIT, first time applicants are being put on waiting lists in the hope that the Canadian government will agree to increase the number of visas to Irish participants. The waiting list is still open but we dont want to create false expectations for people, said USIT spokeswoman Seona Mac Reamoinn, who cited the recession as being a blatant factor in Visa demands. In light of high visa demand, Canadas ambassador to Ireland, Patrick Binns, advised unsuccessful applicants for working holiday visas to apply to other visa programmes, while hinting at the possibility of additional visas later on as compared to an increase in visas for students and under 25s last year. It has also been indicated that successful applicants while working in Canada will increase their stay to permanent by applying for a resident visa.
The visas on offer to Canada range from Canadian family visas to Canadian work permits. According to a leading Canadian visa website In most cases, students wishing to study in Canada will need to obtain a Canadian Student Visa, although in some circumstances such as those candidates studying for less than six months, a Canadian Study Visa will not be required. It should be noted that the range of visas on offer should be carefully fine-combed to rule out what does and does not apply. The online Canadian and Australian recruitment websites detail the litany of prospective jobs on offer to students and other interested parties; they are highly recommended as a form of premeditative briefing.
Students are advised to look into the specifics of the country that they are applying to. Some countries offer a minimum three-month stay without having to require a visa, however this subject is ever changing and requires 100% attention to detail. Settled adults in there 30s and 40s often sigh in wonder of what could have been had they not settled into careers or had children so early on. Most have a tendency to advise the younger generation to take up on their travel dreams and live their youth with no regrets within reason of course. It is important to have a health check before embarking on any trip abroad and ensure correct vaccinations are received. So, should you be overqualified and unemployed, there is no better time than now to take the plunge and see the world. Things will inevitably move forward toward recovery in the years to come, but this is economic limbo, and sadly it is the younger generation bearing an unfair percentage of the brunt. Remember: Pack lightly, dont trust too easily and, most importantly, guard your PASSPORT and WALLET. In the end, these two precious items are your gateways to freedom, well the passport anyway. Travelling as a whole is an experience that will change you forever. Dont be afraid to take risks and enjoy your time, but do be careful. Were dead longer than we are alive, as the morbid saying goes. Live for the now. Life is a journey worth travelling.
Useful websites:
USIT.ie, Globalvisas.com, Citizensinformation.ie, Revenue.ie, seek.com, graduatecareers.com, positionsvacant.com.
Other useful websites include Irish government sites, recruitment agencies, and websites based on the country you are interested in. Certain countries have Irish embassies and direct contacts with the Irish government.
Martin Flanagan
The sales at a glance
Jan 15th
In previous years, the announcement of ditching Christmas presents in favour of the January sales would have been met with much objection. “How could you possibly hold off?” “But you’ve been building up to Christmas all year.” These are just some of the responses one would expect. Add a recession and a new age of thrift and the reaction changes considerably. In the run up to Christmas a friend proposed this very idea and, after discussing it with her partner – who also in the end was content enough with the idea – they both decided to put Christmas on the long-finger and inject their efforts into the 2010 sales. Did their idea greet them with much substance? Was the wait worth not waking up to the presents sitting under the Christmas tree? According to them it was their biggest Einstein moment as a couple.
They are both enjoying the gains from the sales and even noted an obvious save in their annual post-Christmas accounts, meaning the price of the pre-sale camera nose-dived just in time for them to take advantage of in the sales. Apparently these particular ‘thrifts’ “saved hundreds”. They have since put their heads together and have decided to take advantage of the sales further by purchasing gifts for next Christmas – almost 12 months in advance. This may appear extreme to some, but apparently the most savoir-faire planners out there are doing the same. There’s no denying these people will inevitably be the big winners while the rest of us scramble through masses of shoppers before handing out large quantities of cash. This year we had the sense of an all-year-round sale as retailers tried everything in their power to get us to spend. We took advantage of some, but on the most part, we played the waiting game. It seems the January sales will never lose their sense of allure. It’s safe to say shoppers enter a slight frenzy, desperate to get their hands on the bargains. This year is different, however, and even were sales are concerned, people are more cautious now than ever.
Shopping in the sales acquires focus and precise planning. We are all guilty at some point of letting money slip through our fingers like water – even more so at the mention of a sale. The alternative is to approach this year’s sales as though they are not…well, a sale. Not a sale in the sense that you don’t have to smash open the piggy bank and spend, spend, spend. In order to save cash don’t compensate your lack of shopping time with an unplanned overcompensation in spending – you will regret it. Instead, plan ahead; look to the sales for the things you deemed unaffordable before Christmas, as now is the time to strike, (no pun intended). It is important to separate the wheat from the chaff. The best buys will be the ones that you will use again and again: the practical purchases that are cheap now and likely to last a long time. Just because something is on sale doesn’t mean it has to be snapped up for that purpose only – a sale is a sale, it doesn’t justify an item’s sense of quality.
So, the following are the best places to head for your cheap thrills and offer you the chance to boost your consumer confidence.
The Arnotts winter sale began immediately after the Christmas Turkey was carved – on St. Stephen’s day. This retail giant is offering astonishing price drops in electronics and household items: definitely worth checking out.
Clerys have slashed prices right across the board with significant reductions on a wide range of items: 50% off accessories, 50% off lingerie, 50% off linen, 30% off childrenswear and 30% off cosmetics. According to a spokesman for the department store “it will feel like Santa has come again.”
The January sales are stretching themselves nationwide. It is important to take advantage of the sales in your own vicinity and nationwide. Retailers across Ireland are signing themselves up to competition by slashing their prices to win over sales against big retailers such as Topshop and Debenhams – this includes local traders.
Shoppers are being advised to stock up on necessities; avoid purchasing anything that will end up buried in the back of a closet; practice working on compulsive shopping – we all know how easy that can happen in the sales – and buy quality fabrics that will last longer.
In a recent article for the Irish Independent, consumer guru Tina Leonard provided readers with a snapshot of the rules that apply to the sales.
• “In a sale, your consumer rights still apply.”
• “Alongside the sale price the original price should be shown.”
• “The original price should have been used 28 days before the sale.”
• “Old stock should be marked as such so you know what you are getting.”
• “The sign should give you the original price as well.”
It is important to bear these factors in mind whilst shopping in the sales. The fact that it is a sale does not override your statutory rights as a customer. The old school rules still generally apply: refund or repair. In most cases, except cases with hidden loopholes, it generally pays – literally – to have your purchase insured or guarded by a guarantee.
A snapshot of the sales
Arnotts launched their sale on the 26th of December and their online sale on the 24th of December. This retailer is offering cut prices on electronics and other household items.
Clerys began their sale on the 26th of December. They are currently offering deals such as 50% off accessories and 30% off menswear.
Heatons have slashed prices between 25/50% on ladieswear, menswear, childrenswear and homeware.
Roches launched their sale on December 27th. The majority of item prices were cut in half and other reductions include massive percentage discounts.
The sales are currently nationwide and as competetive as ever before, at least since the last recession in the ’80s.
Some of the sales are drawing to a close in the next couple of days, though some will continue for the whole month of January. The sales are no longer a place to test the waters quality and money wise; they are about purchasing practical, long lasting items that will not wear and tear. Don’t surrender to something just because it is cheap: practice quality, continue to compare prices and do the math on percentages were necessary – some “sales” can be quite misleading. Do check out the sales online, as these too can be just as rewarding as hitting the high street.
Martin Flanagan
Heads up on CAO
Jan 5th
Headaches, stress, anxiety: these are just a few of the symptoms floating above the heads of students – all as a result of college application season. CAO is among us, and, for first timers, and even people with experience, this can be daunting. There are ways and, believe it or not, there are plenty of people out there willing to help you in your quest to finding the route most suitable for you.
Statistics have shown that most first year third level students are not quite aware of what they want to study. The question: “What do you want to do for the rest of your life?” is daunting, but fret not, thousands of people share the same experience each year. The key is to stop doubting yourself and be upfront and honest about your current level of experience and the paths that will make you comfortable as a person.
Checklists can be the most laborious future accessing technique out there, but one must tell themselves: this is a minute chapter as opposed to my whole life. Once you achieve these minor steps, like the traumatic Leaving Certificate year, you will never have to revisit this chapter again. There’s a thought to hold tight.
It is important to note the following before applying to a college, directly or online, particularly in the case of cash exchange.
Degrees offered: Delve deep into the level of qualifications offered. There are different degree levels, and the technical jargon is enough to send any person’s nerves into total convulsion. Question the degrees on offer. If you are not qualified for certain degrees, seek out other levels of education, such as a Higher National Diploma or a Post Leaving Certificate Course. These courses are stepping-stones to other levels and, upon completion, they may offer exemption and advanced entry to other levels of education. Example: A higher National Diploma in one college may offer advanced entry into another college outside or inside of Ireland.
Location: Enquire about the distance of the college from your residing address. It is worth bearing in mind transport expenses and whether or not grant aid and other financial packages apply to you.
Public Vs. Private: Public colleges generally charge students the normal registration fee, whereas private colleges are much more expensive. It is worth delving into price comparisons, as there is nothing more disheartening during the application procedure than applying for a course and discovering it is financially outside of your means.
College/Campus resources: Ask questions: Does the college have a library? Does it have high quality access to the internet/ Wifi? Research the college and take note of their resources.
Accreditation: This point is extremely important. Before embarking on any educational journey, always enquire about accreditation and the certificate awarding body. Imagine studying a course, even if it is just skills based, and then discovering that the awarding body is not yet recognised on the National Qualifications Framework. This would be a definitive stab in the back for any student, especially if you were not forewarned and happened to fork out a wad of cash in advance. There is no time to be shy: ask about awarding bodies. You’ll be thankful in the long run.
Reputation: Colleges are obliged to provide students with an unbiased opinion on the college’s reputation. Some colleges are higher recognised than others, and have more reputable districts associated to them.
Social: The phrase “all work no play” doesn’t necessarily apply to college years; a balance of both components is important. Too much study can be brain boggling, and too much play can be, well, brain draining. Research the college. Query the admissions office of the course you are interested in and ask them questions with regard to student social life, sport, facilities on offer, and the overall college spirit. Being active and involved will surely contribute to a picture memory worth looking back on.
Accommodation: If you are planning on renting, before you make the big move, find out if the college you are interested in offers on-campus accommodation. Most reliable colleges will provide you with a maximum yearly cost.
In order to narrow out the confusion, compile a list of the colleges you are interested in. According to Dr. Randall S Hansen, founder of Quintessential Careers, most students generally apply to two “dream colleges” in other words, colleges they feel are out of their league with a slight chance of possible acceptance; two to four colleges where they want to go and can expect to be accepted; and a couple of “safety” colleges where they expect to be considered a “shoo-in”. Overall, on the confusion front, note the aforementioned steps and begin to strike out the elements that automatically impede your decisions.
Colleges are currently offering students the chance to visit their campus and gather a general feel of the environment, facilities and atmosphere. Open days are important for students to speak with the people inside the college, gather information from students, and pick up some on-campus material.
Students applying for colleges through CAO are advised to consult the CAO handbook. It provides students with a comprehensive step-by-step guide to the important facts that need consideration. Students should note that once they register online with CAO they must post all necessary documentation to the CAO headquarters within seven days of their registration, or inform CAO of documents pending evaluation.
THE CAO handbook classifies the three types of NFQ levels in their handbook. Students should familiarise themselves with each level.
Level 8 is classified as an Honours Bachelor Degree (HD)
Level 7 is classified as an ordinary Bachelor Degree (DG)
Level 6 is classified as a Higher Certificate (HC)
It is important to note that any documentation forwarded to the CAO headquarters must contain your application number and name, otherwise failure to do so will result in a delay of your application.
An important date on the CAO calendar is March 1st. Students are advised to amend application errors before this date. The most common errors are: errors or omissions in courses and errors relating to personal information. According to the CAO handbook, students will receive a Statement of Application Record as a final acknowledgement of their application before the end of May and, if a student has not received the statement by June 1st, they must contact CAO immediately. However, students are entitled to change their minds regarding courses – free of charge – up until 5:15pm on July 1st.
Students who wish to make a late application – an application after February 1st – may do so up until 5:15pm on May 1st. However, they will be expected to pay an increased fee of €70 or €90 offline. Currently CAO is offering a discounted online rate of €35 until January 20th, after this date it will rise by a further €10 to a total of €45 online and through post. However, the change of mind is free until July 1st.
Students should not hesitate to contact the guidance councillors of the colleges they are interested in applying to. The guidance councillors will provide students with the answers they need to all their questions. It is also recommended, as tedious as it may seem, that students consult the CAO handbook to arm themselves with the terms and conditions subject to themselves.
Those of you feeling the pinch from the recession don’t think twice about contacting grant agencies to enquire about your specific entitlements. Nobody ever said being a student is cheap living. Best of luck on your road to self-discovery and education.
Websites worth checking out:
The CAO website provides students with information on courses and college open days; it’s worth consideration.
Martin Flanagan
Losing my religion?
Dec 17th
The mere mention of Catholicism in Ireland has transformed into a dark euphemism of ingrained sexual abuse and throes of horror at the hands of our priests. The high-profile scandals of clerical abuse have rocked the Irish nation, sending alarm signals radiating across the globe.
Survivors have incessantly fought for justice – sadly some died during the process – and many doors where slammed in their faces. It later transpired that the “trusted” in society engaged in the sickening act of thwarting the innocence and their battle for liberation – members of the Gardai being one. Is it any wonder that young people are losing touch with their faith and failing to comprehend the beliefs of the once faithfully regarded golden empire of religion? The priests of the abuse generation acted in a shrewd, calculating and callous manner, bearing life-long, mentally stigmatic scars onto their victims’ souls. Some committed suicide; others are fighting a battle from their waking moment, fighting for justice and coming to terms with a needless sense of haunting shame – a shame that is likely to effect the simple interactions of their daily lives.
Time has since progressed, and the heat has reached higher degrees. The Catholic Church of Ireland was exposed for all its stomach-churning and enigmatic revulsion. Out shone the faces of the victims and with that so did the immediate denial on part of those too stone-faced to admit the truth. Some went into hiding, others sprang the cringe-worthy questions – and some felt guilt and disgrace. For many, the litany of exposures marked the beginning of a lost faith in the teachings of Irish religion, particularly among the younger generation. A shadow now hangs over the big questions: Where do we turn for guidance, faith and reassurance?
The hush-hush era has been unveiled, but with that uncovering has come much back-turning on religious stature. The era of terror, where the simple mention of a priest’s name was sufficient enough to instil fear into innocent hearts, no longer has as strong a hold as it once had.
Its grip has been loosened, and the noose around the brave victims’ necks has since been removed – physically, but not mentally. Catholicism has been dealt a fatal blow, and the conspiracies, paedophile rings and secrecy have all constituted to the fall of the Irish church. Inaccuracies, incorrectness, appalling errors, and misconduct of trust…. The list is endless. Is it any wonder young people are failing in their attempts to choose a stable and trustworthy religious foundation to which they can offer their entire trust?
LGBT people in Irish society have waged a bullet-from-gun battle against the Catholic Church since its origin. They where depicted as sexually charged monsters – breeding predators belonging to the dark. The culture was total denial and cover up. Homosexuality was viewed as an illness; some were “generous” enough to offer a cure, believing it was a choice. Prime figures of the Catholic Church – some of who were found to be closet cases themselves – preached hypocrisy to its pinnacle, claiming LGBT people had no religious rights, and no business turning to their religion for help, despite the majority being born into Catholic dynasty. The Bible, since its early production, has condemned the actions and choices of gay people, describing it as a septic evil. The Bible itself cites scarring, hate-fuelled passages against homosexuality: “If a man lies with a male as with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall be put to death: their blood is upon them” (Lev 20:13). This is only a snippet of the homophobic material being read by avid followers of religion for generations, dangerously describing it as a sin and an evil. It is no wonder gay people felt the need to go into hiding; open back-alley clubs that added to the fuel of sordid secrecy; and feel a sense of shame over a “condition” that science later proved as being biologically correct, bringing into clearer focus a sense of softer discernment.
However, despite a wave of understanding, it is the people of the hierarchy who have the most influential power; though, despite this, it is these very establishments that continue to demote LGBT people and their beliefs – the issues surrounding civil partnerships and adoption being some of them.
The 21st century is an epoch of hope, but institutions are continuing to resist change. Only recently Pope Benedict undermined homosexuality and all its glory by announcing to the world that saving it from homosexuality and transsexual behaviour was just as important as saving the world from global warming. And, in August 2009, Cardinal Sean Brady came under fire after he virtually decided the standing of gay people by asking them to take Christ’s side or cut all religious ties immediately. How can gay people expect a sense of progression in society when it is this very great hierarchy that is condemning gay rights on a mass, worldwide scale?
The religious order worldwide has taken an immense bashing and, in order to redirect the magnifying glass, it is continuing to launch a series of scathing attacks on the most vulnerable cultures and all the inbetweeners. Child abuse, homosexuality, rape: these are just a few of the alarming words emanating from the Catholic Church, and it is these very words that will make the Irish Church’s road to recovery all the more difficult. It is a blackened era for religion, some have hung up their hats, others committed suicide to escape ridicule, and others have been led to justice. Where does the faith lie? Nobody is immune. The elderly have turned their backs, and impressionable young people – like sponges – are soaking up the negative impact being aimed in the direction of the Catholic Church. By their own admissions, priests have said that this is an increasingly difficult time for them to address a religious congregation. Few people are taking the pledge of ordainment, and there are now only 120 Redemptorist priests in Ireland.
The Irish Catholic newspaper has predicted that by 2013 the number of priests serving in the diocese will drop from 102 to 70. This prediction has resulted in the Archbishop of Tuam, Dr Michael Neary, putting structures in place to cope with an expected 30 per cent reduction in the archdiocese. It is these predictions that are casting doubt on peoples’ attitudes toward religion, and whether the shocking revelations of the past and the immediate future will continue to rock the religion into complete and utter ruin.
Catholic Youth Care (CYC) has realised the importance young people hold in society and, as a result, it has begun implementing a plan to train young people to preach “the word of God to their Peers.” According to CYC director, Fr Jim Caffrey, the actions outlined will encourage pilgrimages and community activity. He said: “We are only at the beginning, but that is the only way at the end of the day.” Fr Caffrey posed the question: “Why is it that these young people who are idealistic and generous are not finding a home in our parishes?” According to Fr Caffrey homosexuality and suicide are two of the biggest concerns for young people.
Having spoken to a series of young people, it seems the generic perception is that the fall of the church was as a result of its own doing, and no amount of cajoling can reverse its horrific dent that will surely go down in the dark of Irish history.
Samantha Jameson (22) is a childcare student. She says: “There is so much bigotry in the Catholic Church. I can’t remember the last time I went to Church out of good religious will. The only time I seem to ever be inside a church is when I am compelled to visit for christenings and so on….”
Michael Mulvey (20) is a media student. According to Micheal “the Catholic Church has some major making up to do. He says: Its reputation is ruined, and I seriously don’t see how it will ever recover.”
Aisling Kearns (19) says “I would love to be able to support the Catholic Church but how could I? Especially in the current climate: the abuse and its old-fashioned views on homosexuality. If I followed the Church I would feel as though I’m supporting these views.”
Nicola Murphy (23) believes that the Catholic Church may gather the strength in years to come in order to regain its trust. She says: “The church right now is making me so angry. It’s on the TV in the morning, lunchtime and at night. All I’m seeing are priests in handcuffs, revelations about child abuse, and harrowing stories of survivors. It makes me want to cry. I can’t begin to imagine the pain endured by these people and all those people who have since dies. I feel pity and shame. Shame mainly because this is an issue that Ireland will always be associated with: Clerical abuse and its condemnations against homosexuality.”
Martin Flanagan
Don’t be a victim of Drink Spiking
Dec 9th
The dangers that lurk in our drinks
It’s a Saturday night. You’re out with friends, eager to have a good time – eager to push gloomy talk deep into the depths of your subconscious, unaware of possible dark forces lurking in the bottom of your glass, bubbling into something potentially horrific.
This year has lead witness to a worrying trend of drinks being spiked, and many people were left fighting for their lives. Halloween saw an estimated thirty people fall foul of the ever-rising drug, Liquid Ecstasy. Disturbingly, this drug and many others have been used to spike the drinks of random people on a night out. Is this the beginning of a new dicing-with-death culture? And are these random attacks being carefully calculated for the entertainment of contaminated minds?
The latter is worrying, giving rise to an increasingly reported minority who are setting out to purposefully spike drinks. Sadly, some people have admitted to spiking drinks – strangers and, bizarrely, their own friends – all in the name of sinister entertainment. The most severe cases have involved people being mugged, raped or sexually assaulted – and even death.
Clara (22) is a student with a scarring personal account of having had a drink spiked. “I was in one of my regular haunts with friends on a Friday night. I drank a few drinks following dinner earlier and felt perfectly fine. In fact, I was on top form. I remember the club being really busy; it was a promotional student night, so it was much busier than usual. I was standing at the crowded bar, sipping my drink and scanning the room for seats. All my friends were caught up in the atmosphere, dancing to the music and chatting. I remember asking one of my girlfriends to watch my drink until I came back from the toilet. Guessing she heard me, I left. When I came back they (Clara’s friends) were still caught up in conversation with men standing nearby. I picked up my drink and continued drinking.” Clearly struggling to recall the night, she adds: “ I remember the drink being a little off taste, and after chugging most of it back, I brushed it off and went for a dance. One thing that still stands out is the heat. My whole body went into overdrive, and I began sweating intensely.”
Putting it down to the dancing, Clara made her way back to the bar. “I was dehydrated – thirsty beyond belief. I had to shout at the barman to catch his attention. When he finally heard me, I asked him for two glasses of water. I drank them fast but still felt dehydrated. I remember friends shouting: ‘Clara, are you okay? You look really pale!’ I tried to shout back but my speech was slurred and what I was saying wasn’t making sense. I could see my friends, but they looked so far away and the whole room was spinning around me. That’s when I started panicking, and when my friends realised something was seriously wrong. I remember them struggling to get me outside. My legs were buckling under me, and my head was slumping onto my shoulders. I’m sure I looked terrifying thinking back now. When I got outside the air helped slightly, but my legs continued to buckle beneath me and a sickening, dizzying feeling was churning in my stomach. I could hear my friends panicking, and that made me feel worse. I think that’s when I blacked out. The only thing I can remember after that is waking up in a hospital bed, hooked up to machines. Doctors found a combination of drugs in my system, one of them being Ketamine.”
Doctors told Clara that she was lucky her vitals were not affected by the lethal dose of drugs in her system. Ketamine, street termed “Special K”, is another notoriously popular drug on the club scene. It is ranked in line with cocaine and ecstasy, despite its possession being legal. It’s a horse tranquilliser, and it is lethal when combined with alcohol.
This emerging drug is undergoing black-market testing to enhance its high-like effects, thus compromising more lives. People have described hallucinogenic lapses and uncontrollable vomiting, which, in some cases, has led to death.
Following a recent London based report on the effects and increasing prevalence of Ketamine, Martin Barnes, Chief Executive of British charity Drugscope, said: “Short-term memory loss is one of many potential damaging effects – regular Ketamine use can damage the bladder and kidneys, high doses can cause serious breathing problems and unconsciousness and users can become addicted to the drug. As with all drugs, the harms are potentially increased when combined with other drugs including alcohol.” It has been reported that Ketamine’s prevalence is increasing in Ireland due to cross-border smuggling.
The spiking of drinks is not confined to individual “at risk” groups. Most people are vulnerable, especially in cases of improper drink protection. However, there are a number of steps that can be taken to prevent it from happening.
Surrounding yourself with the right people is important: friends, etc. Simple steps such as holding your thumb over the top of a bottle; never leaving your drink unattended, even when going to the toilet; and never accepting drinks from “nice” strangers, all play a major role in preventative measures. It’s important to bear in mind that if a situation doesn’t feel right, then it almost certainly isn’t: trust your instinct.
Alas, over complacency and the belief “it will never happen to me” have played a killer role in causing drug-induced deaths. The cold facts are set in stone. In the end, the individual has the choice. And, according to Clara, had she been forewarned in advance, she would have been more club-smart and street-wise. The matter is in the hand of the drinker; it is their prerogative to protect themselves. Behind the rose-tinted glasses something is lurking, and unfortunately for those seeking a good time, it is the minority of dangerous minds that are putting innocent lives at risk.
Martin Flanagan
Smart Spending this Christmas
Dec 3rd
Play it wise
The hype has begun – Christmas is here. You know, that time of year when you expect every detail to be perfect, not to mention the quality of gifts that you are planning to present to all those eager beavers crossing out the remaining days on their Rudolph calendars. Nobody appears to understand your problem: the finance issue, duh. That issue refraining you from splashing out on all those sumptuous gifts. See, Christmas is a time of year when we want to ignore the plight of all that’s going on around us, even if you’re hitting the doghouse and struggling to string together your Penneys brand shoes. Perfect, perfect, perfect… at least we can pretend, eh?
So, don’t fret – you’re not alone. Thousands of people this year are struggling to make ends meet. Christmas is so all – encompassing and so much could go wrong. But what if we play the game smart, cool and cheap? We can slide into the commercial trap with as much ease as Santa chugging back his last round-the-world pint. It doesn’t have to be an all out hair-pulling, ear-splitting stress debacle. There is light at the end of the tunnel. This Christmas it’s all about tapping into your creative side to be as resourceful and inventive as possible. The following steps are so simple and so easy to follow that, if applied often, can contribute significantly to your annual savings.
Budget – no, not that grim topic hanging above our heads like a dark cloud. Thanks Cowen. We’re talking a more personal budget; one that you have sole control over. Not some hypocritical bureaucracy. Write down the names of your nearest and dearest. Set a target amount of expenditure beside each name – be strict. This small step, believe it or not, helps gather confusion into greater context. Write names by level of priority: who the most important people are (careful not to offend), and who are the most expensive (suckers!) to buy for. Match up your income with your outgoings, and don’t be afraid to ask yourself: Am I spending more than I earn? It’s amazing the amount of people who will answer yes to this particular question, so long as they are honest to themselves. Review your budget and adjust changes that crop up.
Compare prices. Nowadays people are shopping for necessities in more than one place, whereas before, it was all done under the one roof. It’s important to compare prices and check out the latest deals. We all know how annoying it is to buy something, fast forward a couple of shops later, and see the same product for half the price. Grrrrrr! There are a number of websites that can provide you with information regarding the latest price drops, etc. They are worth a look before your big shopping ‘voyage’. Boot the indolence. Do your research.
Seek out second hand bargains: see Charity Shop Chic. Alternative to charity shops are sites such as ebay.ie, which is popular for its downgraded prices on big items. Also, second hand bookstores are renowned for selling the latest releases at cut prices, provided you are willing to read something second hand though, in some cases, the books are brand spanking new.
Driving? Lucky you. One major saver: compare petrol prices. Some fuel stations offer lower prices than others. It’s a matter of comparing prices. Over a period of time this simple step can save you a huge amount of money, sometimes amassing to hundreds of euro.
Save money on gift cards, provided by the big retailers. Every time you purchase something and present this card, you’ll receive reward points. The more points you have, the more discounts and freebies you’ll get. These big industries are more than happy to mill your hard earned cash, so reap the rewards – take advantage.
This time of year has its fair share of scam artists. Malicious people will try their best to rob you blind and take advantage of your vulnerability. Proceed through this season with caution: if something seems too good to be true, it most likely is (ditch all hope on these occasions). Steer clear of sparkling lottery cards offering you the world, and avoid the people handing them out like a plague, unless they are legitimate and can prove it.
B for beauty. B for bargain. The net offers the best beauty bargains, girls – and boys. The wonderful web is ideal for seeking out the best and latest beauty ranges. Some sites are even offering freebies for promotional purposes. Avid bargain hunters are known for seeking out price comparison sites online. Practical price comparison sites offer bargain advice for on/offline hunting. They provide you with information on the latest products – makeup, hair, clothes, accessories – and the best places to track them down.
Partying is a factor on the agenda for most people this season. And, like most things, this can be achieved on the cheap. And no, I don’t mean you should round up your friends, head to the nearest field, and begin cracking open bottles of WKD! It’s a matter of scouting. Should you find yourself handling the task of booking, don’t panic, and don’t settle on your first choice. Remember, no contracts have been signed, and you are not legally binding yourself to anything by asking those all-important questions. Stress comparisons. This all-round independent rule applies to everything this season. It’s all about comparing, provided you have the patience, that is.
Phew, there you have it: a bumper guide to the best money saving tips this year. It doesn’t have to be doom and gloom. Preach simplicity and play it practical. This is the time of year when you can afford to take chances, unleash your inner creative beast, and play host to the number of great offers out there. Lock, load and engage….
Martin Flanagan
CHARITY SHOP CHIC
Nov 30th
The current economic woos have us all backing into the nearest corner; we are all desperately seeking the latest bargains. Christmas is imminent, and so is the litany of presents we swore to buy for our nearest and dearest. Student life has its many demands without the influence of demanding external influences: consumerism pressure being one of them.
We have heard much talk about boycotting big industries for popping Christmas pressure on top of us all too early, sadly this big talk rarely amounts to big results. So let’s face it: We have to prioritise our expenditure and take advantage of deals on offer – even if that means trading vouchers! Okay, perhaps that’s a tad over the top, but it’s happened. Once upon a time butter vouchers had to be traded for necessary needs such as heating and food. Fortunately for us, time has sincerely progressed since then, and there has been a conspicuous rise in retailers accommodating our needs – Charity Shops being one of the most influential, particularly in recent times.
Despite some charity shops reporting a decline in donations, hard up consumers continue flocking to the shops in search of money-saving bargains. This Christmas it’s all about sentimentalities and the “inner meaningful thought”, as opposed to the bigger and more expensive notion that applied in the Celtic Tiger era.
It doesn’t take a genius to gather that charity shops are a haven for cash-strapped individuals, and students, at least the majority (unless Mam and Dad are loaded), fall into the ‘living on a shoestring’ category. It’s not uncommon – while sifting through the vast array of goods in charity shops – to stumble upon brand new unwanted gifts, whether it be from birthdays or previous Christmases, and some items still come equipped with the original price tag, usually double the downgraded asking price – and guess what? No-one ought to know the whereabouts of their second hand, but virtually brand new present. A mega plus to charity shops is the fact that the once reputed hand-me-down stigma is massively deteriorating: people are shaking off the class thing and diving head first into a world of something once frowned upon.
St Vincent de Paul recently announced that their 100 shops throughout Ireland are 10% busier this year, reinforcing the impact of a rise in charity shop popularity, despite spending per customer being noticeably lower. With their popularity increasing, more and more counties are paying homage to charity shops.
Malahide and Lucan recently bore witness to the opening of new shops, and more are scheduled to open in Kilcullen and Greystones. The current climate has charity shops sprouting up throughout Ireland and more and more are opening to match an increase in demand. The stores are similar to Russian Roulette in the sense that their stock is unpredictable and ever changing. One day they could offer little or nothing that you’re interested in, the next they could have everything – vintage clothing, books, Cds, fancy dress outfits, and other little accessories – on offer. It all depends on the location, donations and custom that each individual store is receiving.
“I love charity shops,” says Martina Wallace, a student studying in Dublin. “The idea of finding something unique, as opposed to something mass produced and cat-walked by everybody has never appealed to me, so charity shops definitely provide the chance to find something quirky and unique.” When asked if charity shopping for Christmas is the ‘done thing’, she said: “Before, I wouldn’t have considered charity shops as a place to visit on my Christmas shopping list, it was only after college friends voiced positive opinions on them that I decided to give them a go. Only recently I purchased two fantastic and unread books for less than a fiver.”
She added: “This year I’m keeping an open-mind. I’m of the impression now that I’ll shop around this year with a higher sense of purpose and practicality, and charity shops are certainly offering the best bargains at the moment.”
This year, other than benefiting from a kick-ass bargain, bear in mind that every exchange in a charity shop is geared toward something positive, and somewhere someone is gaining from your cash injection, no matter how small the amount. Charity shopping offers a number of ‘feel good factors’. It’s simply a matter of taking the plunge and reaching out to a greater need. Students, particularly those on a tight budget, are inevitably bound to benefit from charity shopping, and notice a lesser dent to their pockets. So whack on your thinking caps and seek out the many bargains waiting to be snapped up…
Martin Flanagan
Top tips to staying flu free this winter
Nov 30th
It’s official: the season of colds and flu has arrived. We’re all familiar with the dreaded symptoms harnessed by both infections: aches and pains, fever, sore throat, runny nose, and an irritating cough that can often lead to embarrassing gasps and shortness of breath. However, this year round we’re on higher alert than those previous, particularly because of Swine Flu threat.
Students are more susceptible to catching such aforementioned infections due to their hectic lifestyles. The combination of stress, travel, lack of sleep, diet and other such factors all effect the strength of one’s immune system, and the level of a person’s susceptibility will inevitably avert back to the strength of their immune system. Result: those with an immune system below base-line normal are at an exceedingly greater risk of getting ill.
Don’t fret though, there are a number of healthy options available to stave off infection and reinforce all those sentry cells designed to battle with any unwarranted invasions.
Vitamin C is vital in the fight against infection; it is an underestimated powerhouse that can be consumed in a number of convenient ways. Lemon juice harbours powerful antioxidants and a high level of Vitamin C. It also supports the body’s natural PH, which maintains a healthy level of “friendly bacteria”. Oranges and pure unconcentrated orange juice are other superlative sources of Vitamin C. One whole orange provides a whopping 116% of free radical busting Vitamin C. There’s a thought to hold tight next time you pass a colourful fruit stall.
Ditch the caffeine-laden cups of coffee in favour of herbal teas and tinctures. Caffeine, contrary to popular belief, steals the body of vital minerals and vitamins, and dehydrates your system. Green tea is high in antioxidants, as well as Pu-erh tea, White tea, Rooibos tea, and many more, which can be found in local health and Chinese shops. The other high priority is water. It is most effective at hydrating the body, feeding the mind, and promoting health and vitality.
Sugar provides the body with a drug-like high, but, like every high comes an almighty low. Sugar stresses out the body by misleading it into believing that it has more energy. It also contributes to weight gain, ageing and fluctuating energy levels. Cutting out sugar and replacing it with healthier alternatives will result in a noticeable increase in energy levels and a boost to your immune system.
Nurture, nurture, nurture, if ever you needed the excuse, protecting the immune system is the ultimate one. Sleep is vital; it improves concentration, controls weight, lessens the likelihood of suffering from depression, contributes to healthy skin, and balances hormone levels.
Equal to sleep is the great outdoors. We spend most of our day indoors inhaling inadequately filtered air and breathing in the germs of others. Fresh air is vital for the rejuvenation process, and delivers freshly filtered air – provided fume levels are low -directly to our lungs.
“You are what you eat”. We are all familiar with that phrase, made popular by nutritionist and food guru Dr Gillian Mc Keith. Fruit and vegetables are crucial to maintaining a strong immune system. Both provide the body with high levels of vitamins and minerals, while protein is crucial in the sense that it provides the body with the strength needed to keep our immune systems sturdy. It is also advisable to pop a daily multi-vitamin, alongside your fruit and vegetable intake.
So, if you’re feeling “under the weather”, feeling a tad dose of the sniffles, or simply want to beat the cold or flu before they beat you, then the above steps are sensible in the sense that you are arming yourself with crucial steps against this season’s spate of common infections.
Premeditation is key in preventing infection and protecting the immune system against cunning germs and their infiltrations. Wrap up and keep warm. Good luck!
Editor: Martin Flanagan