Hello and welcome to 2006’s combined January/February issue of Nuacht Chlair. This month we have introduced a new gardening section with renowned Horticularist James Kilkelly. James has been running gardening classes in Galway Mayo Institute of Technology (GMIT) for some time now and they are a huge success. Enjoy reading his articles but more importantly putting his advice to good use! Check out his website too – very informative.
Drama fever will soon be upon us again and this year is a very special year. Read all about it in Declan’s article.
Claregalway Shopping Centre is undergoing radical changes at the moment and will give a whole new look to Claregalway when completed. Situated right in the heart of the village (soon to become town) we will have everything on our doorstep. No need for those endless frustrating “stuck in traffic” trips into Galway. All we need now to complete this wonderful soon to become town is a BYPASS.
As a parent, it was heartening to hear the President of the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists (ISCP), Esther-Mary D’Arcy speak about the physical health of Irish children with an emphasis on posture and back care. At the launch of the ISCP’s third annual Move 4 Health Day recently, Ms. D’Arcy highlighted the need for children to look after their backs and prevent debilitating low back pain. For the life of me, I do not understand why our children have to carry heavy schoolbags to school (up to 20 kilos in some cases). Of course their posture is going to be affected with this extra weight. I picked up my daugter’s schoolbag the other day and promptly dropped it – the weight was surreal and I believe we as parents, should lobby our local Councillors and Government officials to address this issue once and for all. Every year, we hear parents complain about this and nothing is happening. Perhaps now with elections looming, our Councillors will take note and help find a solution to this problem. Why are school lockers not being used? Could wheelie bags be introduced and made compulsory? Why not ask our children what they think? There are solutions.
It was frightening but not surprising to hear that 50% of 14-16 year olds reported back pain and needed treatment. Is this what we want for our children? Councillors, please listen. We do not want a stooped generation. They deserve better.
Until next time, Josette
