Covid-19: How did we reach this point?

As Winter dawns, remembering life prior to Covid-19 is difficult. This country has been on a rollercoaster ride. To best understand this journey, there is a necessity to retrace our steps and see how the year began optimistically before life changed for everyone.

The journey starts on New Year’s Eve in 2019. My family and I gathered with our friends. The night is a tradition. We all stood in the kitchen as the countdown clock ticked down on the screen. When we rang in the new year, everyone embraced and clinked glasses. I remember one aspect of this night distinctively. I noticed that everyone was excited about the turn of the decade. 2020 was set to be a great year.

In the days that followed, I attended the BT Young Scientist exhibition in the RDS. Thousands of people from across Ireland were packed into the complex. It was set to be my last time attending for a few years because of college commitments. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar called an election for 8^th February which led to great excitement among politicos like myself. I then went back to college with the realisation that my final semester of the last year would be difficult.

As the weeks went by, I voted in my first general election and passed a driving test. I’ll never forget travelling on the bus to the RDS and watching votes being counted. The place was bustling and talk quickly turned to government formation.

During the February Mid-Term break, my sister and her classmates embarked on an organised school trip to Northern Italy. Their ski week started with a temperature check at Verona Airport. The week looked glorious as they slid down snowy hills in paradise. By the time they left, the virus was causing chaos in that region. However, Covid-19 was still a distant concept to Irish people as no cases had been detected here. 

There is one day that remains solidified in my mind. Saturday 22^nd February was the day my friends celebrated their 21^st birthday party. A friend hosted us before our bus journey into Bad Bob’s, Temple Bar. We climbed up the stairwell before reaching the celebration which was in full swing. The club was packed to the rafters and music blared from all directions. We had a great night and I left early to facilitate some studying on the Sunday for upcoming Mid-Term exams. I remember being stuck behind a queue of taxis outside Christchurch Cathedral. I had no idea it would mark my last time in a nightclub, final journey in a taxi and my last time in town. As a college student, this thought would have seemed barmy. Nobody realised what was about to happen.

We then reached Saturday 29^th February. This day might traditionally have brought good fortune for some due to the leap year but there was no love around. As my parents went for dinner in Hugo’s, I sat in a dark house watching the news at nine. There was one major breaking story. A single case of Coronavirus had been found in Ireland. The announcement was delivered by a man called Dr Tony Holohan. He would quickly become the most respected person in Ireland.

I had no idea that my last day of college had passed. I can recall taking a Mid-Term exam and running into one of my former lecturers at the coffee point. We discussed the upcoming US Election and Joe Biden’s possible running mate. I then met my cousin for lunch and that ended what would become my last day in UCD.   

The date of 12^th March 2020 was another milestone. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar stood outside Blair House in Washington D.C. to announce the closure of all schools in Ireland. Nobody realised that it would be the final day in school. By pure coincidence, I had taken a photo outside Blair House eight months prior to that announcement. My sister and the rest of her fifth year classmates let out cheers in disbelief and delight. My dad rang to ask if I was ok. Some people he knew were quite anxious. I knew this was getting serious.

After a few days, Mr Varadkar made an address on St Patrick’s Day night. It was the first time in years that all parades had been cancelled. For my generation, it was reminiscent of Charlie Haughey’s infamous ‘we are living way beyond our means’ speech. While Varadkar and Haughey were discussing two completely different problems, this was seismic.

As weeks turned into months, I completed my college exams online and people wore masks every time they entered a supermarket. Individuals were not allowed to enter the houses of their grandparents so we had to be seated outside in order to see loved ones. The cases eventually dropped and a new government took office on my birthday. For the first time in living memory, barely anyone travelled on holiday abroad and the idea of remaining in Ireland became known as a ‘staycation’. I also graduated virtually with a BA (Hons) Economics and Politics degree.

This leaves us where we are today. Covid-19 figures are steadily rising and Dublin is temporarily out of bounds. The purpose of this article was to demonstrate the journey taken in order to fight Coronavirus. I hope that by the time a sequel to this article is written, we have eradicated the threat of this awful sickness. Such actions can only be taken if we listen to experts and apply adequate levels of social distancing. We must always recall how far Ireland has come and act to save lives now.

By Cian Byrne.

My advice for pupils starting secondary school

All schools in Ireland will return over the next few days. A new chapter is commencing for many first year pupils. This prospect can be daunting for teenagers. I have decided to compile some advice and guidance for these students as their day approaches.

I remember day one of secondary school. It feels like yesterday. You complete eight years of primary school before moving towards something new. It was 29^th August 2011. The sun beamed brightly from above. Most pupils feel nervous on their first day, but I remember having a great sense of hope and optimism. I was excited for the future. Upon closing the car door, I strolled towards the entrance. I walked into a room filled with chatter and noise and was fortunate to have some classmates from primary school starting that day. They waved over and pointed towards a chair where I could sit. That walk across the hall ended the initial hurdle. For students beginning their journey over the next few days, it is important not to panic if you don’t know anyone. Try and introduce yourself to others. Always remember that everybody is firmly in the same boat. Be confident in yourself. Walking into the large auditorium initially is an achievement. Take each hour as it comes. Do not worry if you miss information initially. The teachers are aware of your nerves.

I remember the silence which descended over the room as my principal and year head walked in. The eyes of 125 different pupils were focused on that podium. At the presentation, our principal gave some excellent advice. He started by discussing how our six years in secondary would fly. As someone who finished school three years ago, I can honestly say this is true. He encouraged us to take every opportunity that came our way because that chance may never come around again. I listened carefully, nodding as the principal spoke. I then decided to make that a motto for my secondary school years. I did not want to be a kid that just passed through. It was important to play my part in history.

I knew it was crucial to find my alcove in secondary school. I was always interested in current affairs so Model United Nations and Debating were a perfect fit. Through these activities, I had the opportunity to meet students from other year groups, travel and learn more about the world. It also gave me the chance to speak in front of crowds ranging from 40-250 people. I was fortunate to attend a Model United Nations in Croydon each year. This allowed me to chat with students from across the world. I would encourage every first year to join one club. Nobody minds if you take extra time to find your feet. Clubs help you to form a common bond with other pupils.

While debating was my passion, I also tried playing rugby for a day. It was certainly a different experience for me. In the months before I started secondary school, my family had emphasised the fact that Brian O’Driscoll only started playing the sport when he was in second level. All I can say is that a shot at the Ireland captaincy was never going to be within my reach. While my classmates graced the field, I was running around the pitch, trying to avoid the ball. When the training session came to an end, I sprinted off the pitch like a fresh bolt of lightning and never went back. It did not matter. I had given everything a try and found my place in the debating society.

The world will change over your time in secondary school. When I entered the post-primary world, Ireland was in the middle of the 2011 presidential campaign. In my last year, the world was captivated by the Brexit referendum. Donald Trump was also elected President of the United States. Be prepared to accept change as it happens.

My final word to incoming pupils is this. Build your brand and do not worry about failure or others who snipe from the side lines. Put yourself out there and make sure to keep studying diligently. Respect your fellow classmates and teachers. Covid-19 has been difficult for everyone. Most of all, enjoy yourself and take each day at a time.

By Cian Byrne.

The Northern Lights Of Portstewart, Derry and Donegal

I first discovered the town of Portstewart in 2016 when my neighbours gave us their holiday home for a few days. Within an instant, I was struck by the succulent food, eye catching views and magnificent tourist sites. I went back again this year and incorporated day trips to Derry and Donegal. Every time I go to Northern Ireland, I strive to find something new. On this trip, there were plenty of surprises.

I am always struck by the magnificent walks and trails that Portstewart residents have on their doorstep. The Nuns Walk is a peaceful trail located alongside the ocean. It plays host to stunning views over the peninsula. At night, the collection of lights exemplifies an eye-catching skyline.

There are several new areas I saw during my trip. I went to Coleraine which has a wide-open area with many high street shops. I also travelled down the coast to Castlerock where I stood on the footbridge, gawking down at a train below. We also discovered Cushendun and Cushendall along the way too.

Derry is a fascinating city which has been at the forefront of history. I last visited in 2018 and was immediately captivated by the people who shaped its past. I was in the area days before peacemaker and former SDLP leader John Hume passed away. His role in the peace process was instrumental when it came to the ending of prolonged armed conflict. Former Deputy First Minister of Northern Ireland Mark Durkan is also from Derry. I met him in 2019 as he campaigned for a seat in the European Parliament. Another former Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness was from the Bogside and always kept the community close to his heart.

I found that the city of Derry was different on this occasion. As my mum and sister shopped in the Foyle Centre, my dad and I decided to stroll towards the Bogside. Usually, the vicinity is thronged with tourists seeking to learn about the troubles. On this day, it was eerily quiet with only a group or two around. The heavens opened from above as we dodged under a tree.

One of the highlights of my Portstewart holiday was a day trip to Donegal. It was my first trip to the county since 2005 when my family and I stayed in Letterkenny and ate every meal in the Silver Tassie. We entered Greencastle after a trip along the Lough Foyle ferry. A stroll along the pier gave a much-needed break from the car before we went to Moville. We then travelled onwards to Muff, Carndonagh and Ballyliffin. If you want a good place for lunch, head for Nancy’s Barn on Ballyliffin’s main street. I had a luscious sandwich outside as the rays beamed from above. The sunlight reflected the positive day travelling around Donegal.

I always enjoy my trips to Portstewart. Each time, I pursue new endeavours and unearth adventures. Portstewart is a great area to base yourself and allows for trips to the Giants Causeway, Dunluce Castle, Portrush and the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge. It is certainly worth exploring in the year of staycations.

By Cian Byrne.

For more information about Portstewart, see my article here: https://cianbyrnesblog.wordpress.com/2019/06/18/the-town-of-portstewart/

The tricks and trails of the Wild Atlantic Way

We set off on a staycation along the Wild Atlantic Way in order to explore areas of the country I had never discovered. The trip commenced with a visit to Mullaghmore in county Sligo where the aroma of fresh fish and salty sea water cascaded through my nostrils. We wanted to experience this marvellous area before checking into the Glasshouse Hotel in Sligo town. Mullaghmore is historic for a number of reasons. The Queens cousin, Lord Mountbatten, was killed by the IRA as he left on a boat. Prince Charles and his wife Camilla visited the pier a number of years ago so I had a vision of the area from television. As we parked the car, the locality was bustling. There were people on every corner. Many were walking, eating or taking part in water sport. This is a key endeavour undertaken by many residents and tourists in Mullaghmore. The Beach Hotel is a wonderful oasis on the main street. I got a succulent BLT with crispy rasher, crunchy tomato and fresh lettuce squeezed into two slices of bread.

After a saunter along the vast open beach in Mullaghmore, we drove to Bundoran in Donegal and explored the town and walkway. The afternoon sun beamed from above and sounds of laughter rang out from the amusements.

My family and I continued along the Wild Atlantic Way and stopped in Enniscrone for some nourishment. My dad had visited the town for a family holiday in the 1970’s and he even discovered the refurbished holiday home where two weeks of his summer were spent. My mum had travelled there on a day trip from Dublin. This was long before the days of motorways and high speed travel. There is a superb eatery called Tracey’s Café where you can get mouth-watering milkshakes and delicious scones.

Afterwards, we travelled to Westport in county Mayo. I had briefly passed through the town on my way to Delphi in sixth class. The streets were thronged on a manic summer afternoon and a real holiday spirit echoed around. Visit the Towers Bar and Restaurant if you are staying in the locality. I sat outside with a view of Croagh Patrick as the red sky above the ocean signalled a shepherds delight. The sun went down over the horizon, reminding me of the famous sun down in the Grand Canyon. JJ O’Malleys is another place to get mouth-watering food. Westport is a great base for exploring everything that the west of Ireland has to offer.

While in Westport, a visit to Achill Island is a must. Our car veered along the narrow roads as fluffy sheep devoured grass on either side. I also went for my first swim in the sea this year. I ran from the heat into the Atlantic Ocean where the biting cold gripped every limb in my body. It was electrifying. We also stopped into Mulranny where we took a leisurely stroll along the grass verge around the vicinity.

As our time in Westport came to an end, my family and I embarked on the next stretch of our journey. We called into the Delphi Resort which had played host to my last primary school trip. In Leenane, the Purple Door Café is a quaint little coffee shop where I ate my first rhubarb scone. Having only become a fan of rhubarb crumble recently, this proved a treat. While in the area, it is worth viewing the outstanding architecture and serenity of Kylemore Abbey. You can also take a tour in order to gauge the experience of attending boarding school. The water glistened in front of the famous institution as the sun engulfed us. We passed through Clifden where I bought an ice cream and listened to a musician in the square. Spiddal is always a great spot to visit along the way. My dad proposed to my mum on the pier years ago. However, nobody could have anticipated how that particular pier would become the centre of national attention hours later. Our visit continued down the Galway coastline to Kinvara which was set to be our final destination on this trip.

I instantly loved Kinvara upon arrival. One of my family members described the town as having a ‘Dingle vibe’ because of the small pier and silence at night. We stayed in the Kinvara Guesthouse which is located beside the main street. The full Irish breakfast was one of the most enjoyable I have ever tasted. Keogh’s Pub and Restaurant serves delectable pizza, cottage pie and burgers. I also had lunch in the pub. Kinvara is a place I look forward to visiting again in the near future.

On our last morning before the short drive back to Dublin, a trip to Ballyvaughan and Doolin was a must. On our way to Ballyvaughan, we received word that two girls had gone missing while paddle boarding from Spiddal the day before. We could see a helicopter above and boats rushing to assist the search. A few minutes later, news came through that that the girls had been found safely. As we stood on the pier in Doolin, the helicopter carrying the girls to hospital flew across the horizon. It was a remarkable end to a terrifying ordeal.

The Wild Atlantic Way is one of the most scenic areas I have ever visited. I would count it alongside the Grand Canyon and the Mojave Desert. I will remember this four day break with great fondness. It delivered memories that I will take into the future.

By Cian Byrne.

The Picturesque City Of Monaco

In July 2018, I travelled to Monaco for a day trip. The city was easily accessible by train from the town of Antibes which is nestled along the French coast. My extensive trip also encompassed a visit to my cousins in the scenic town of Aix-en-Provence. Having a car opens Southern France to wide-ranging opportunities for travel and exploration.

The rain lashed down from above as our train approached Monaco. I will always remember the station. From the minute we disembarked, the cleanliness was apparent. The smell of detergent cascaded through my nostrils. I had never seen anything like that in a transportation hub. After our journey, we decided that a pit stop in a local bakery was necessary. We ate divine croissants as we contemplated a trip to the palace.

In order to reach the Prince’s palace, you must climb a steep hill. There are alternative ways of travelling up including a shuttle bus or taxi if you’re not a walker. The reward at the top makes your journey worthwhile because of the stunning views over Monaco. The scenery was breath-taking. We swiftly booked a tour of the famous palace where Prince Albert lives with his wife Charlene Wittstock and their two children. I remember feeling a great sense of excitement and anticipation. After strolling up a winding stairs, we reached the state rooms which were decorated with magnificent paintings and furniture. History was everywhere and each item symbolised emeralds from the past. Your ticket for the palace entitles you to visit Prince Albert’s car collection. You will see historic vehicles including the car used to transport his royal highness and Princess Charlene on their wedding day.

When visiting Monaco, a day trip will suffice. The city can be easily covered in a few hours. It is accessible on the train and leaving your accommodation early provides the best chance of experiencing the city at a quieter time. Coffees, croissants and other treats are more expensive in Monaco than other locations. Overall, I would highly recommend a trip to this jewel beneath the mountains.

By Cian Byrne.

Leading Reform Of The Irish Presidency

The President of Ireland is one of the most recognisable figures in this state. They manage a busy diary of domestic and international engagements. A President also plays host to events in Áras an Uachtaráin and welcomes almost every head of state visiting the Emerald Isle. This position has been an accelerant of change but there are some elements of the office which need to be adjusted.

The Presidency must captivate the imagination of Irish people. Citizens cannot feel that ascension to the position is impossible. One critical reform is reducing the age at which a person can stand for this office. In 2015, there was a referendum to lower this age from thirty five to twenty one. The ballot was comprehensively rejected but I think we can revisit a similar poll again. The age should be reduced to twenty eight or thirty. This would open the Presidency to a new group of people. There are a significant number of individuals within this age bracket who would be ready to assume the role. Young Irish people are sought by Multinationals and other businesses. As a result, we must assist their ambition and determination to run for high office. I feel that this move would increase turnout at Presidential Elections and encourage greater interest in the position.

During the last Presidential Election in 2018, there were murmurs about reducing the term from seven to five years. This would reinvigorate interest in this office. It could make way for greater scope to debate the next steps for our country. In a general election, people have discussions about the future of the nation every five years or so. The Presidency does not receive the same level of coverage. I know about the power difference between a Taoiseach and President. However, the role of first citizen must be debated frequently to build efficiency and help broaden appeal.

Aside from reform of the Presidency, we need to examine campaigning. Any citizens willing to stand for the role must be tested. However, no candidate or their family should suffer irreversible damage. I worry that highly qualified people will be discouraged from running because of the sheer bitterness of campaigning. Standing for the office should be a test and not a trial for the individuals participating. Irish people are known around the world for kindness and this should be reflected in Presidential Elections.

The President of Ireland will continue to inspire people for years to come. When these reforms are implemented, future administrations will be enhanced. This article examines the immediate steps which must be taken to improve the role and broaden accessibility. If people lose interest in the Presidency, our nation will inevitably suffer the consequences.

By Cian Byrne.

Supporting Incoming Sixth Years Throughout A Pandemic

Fifth year is very important. It sets a standard for your Leaving Cert and allows each pupil develop indispensable skills for the future. The current group of fifth years need proper clarity before they start sixth year. A significant number of students are worried about how the 2020/21 academic year will progress. We have time to plan a response but the sand is slipping through the egg timer.

In September, schools need to open at the same time as normal and contact with staff must be reinstated quickly. While online classes appear to have been beneficial for some students, there are others who cannot access these learning platforms. It is vital that schools are opened for sixth years to pursue their studies in a socially distanced manner.

Some specific measures and allowances should be made for the class of 2021. This could include reducing the content needed for retention in each subject. For example, in Irish, pupils should only need to know any ten Sraith Pictures out of the twenty in circulation. A measure of this nature may seem minuscule to some but it would make a difference. If each subject is reviewed, the manageability of the Leaving Cert will increase. This will alleviate pressure for students and give people a chance to thrive.

One avenue that should also be considered is an increase in the level of continuous assessment. This will lower the level of pressure that students inevitably feel each June. A certain percentage of grades could be determined by a pupils’ work effort, class tests and general behavior.

My message for incoming sixth year pupils is simple. Do not waste a minute of your summer worrying about the Leaving Cert. It is the responsibility of various governmental agencies to design an appropriate system. Use the next few months to relax, recharge and remain optimistic about the time to come. Enjoy your summer and remember that some of the greatest moments of your life are just around the corner.

By Cian Byrne.

How to conduct the Leaving Cert during Covid-19

The Leaving Cert is one of the most stressful years of your life. Years of study converge into a few exams which decide your place in college. It is difficult enough without disruptions but this is an unprecedented time. We need to plan for alternative means in order to ensure minimal disruption for all students involved. Pupils should remain calm and remember that there are many others across the country in the same situation. I have a plan which could help reduce anguish for Leaving Cert pupils in the coming weeks if the essential closures due to Covid-19 persist.

My plan involves creating special circumstances which allow assessments to take place if the pandemic continues until June. In this case, students sitting the Leaving Cert should be placed across schools and other facilities in the community to make sure they do not come in contact with others. The exams would all begin at the same time. The Junior Cert should be cancelled and an overall mark could be taken in each subject based on continuous assessment already conducted. This would free up resources for the Leaving Cert and allow officials to focus on logistics. As part of my plan, the state would open primary school classrooms and put desks in locations ordinarily used as childcare facilities (which would still be closed). Only a few people would be allocated to a room and pupils from one school would sit the exam across a number of locations in a particular area. This would reduce the contact that people have with each other.

This is a worrying time for Leaving Cert students and many others across this country. In the event that this virus continues, we can adapt and change the way we conduct the Leaving Cert. This plan will help with continuity in a way that does not compromise safety.

By Cian Byrne.

The Day I Met Speaker Paul Ryan

In March 2015, I decided to go into town with my friends over the Easter holidays. It was lashing rain and the wind was howling. After looking through the shops, we decided to walk up Grafton Street and plan our journey home. I then spotted a Congressman called Paul Ryan on the other side of the street. I had recognised him from the role he played as 2012 Vice Presidential Candidate for Mitt Romney. He was walking through Grafton Street and nobody looked at him twice. I bet he could never have expected that a sixteen year old would recognise him.

I decided to say hello to Mr Ryan. I started by making sure it was actually him before launching into any more. Luckily my assertion had been correct and he immediately asked if I wanted a selfie. I said yes and he got his young son to take the photo. The Congressman asked how my day was going and we spoke about 2016. At this stage, he was the leading Republican contender for the 2016 election. This was long before the name Donald Trump was being discussed. My friends stood just metres away, wondering who I was talking to. They still talk about it today. My encounter with Paul Ryan on that showery afternoon will be one I will never forget.

Since 2015, Paul Ryan became Speaker of the United States House of Representatives before stepping down in January 2019. It will be interesting to see what the Wisconsin man will do next. Some have suggested he might run for President some day while others have been more critical of his performance in Congress. I can guarantee that we will hear more from Paul Ryan in the future.

By Cian Byrne.

Improved Infrastructure Needed For Cyclists Now

I like to cycle all the time. The bike helps me travel to college, visit my relations and relax. However, it is clear that this mode of transport is getting more treacherous by the day. Proper investment in cycling infrastructure is needed so cyclists can safely navigate through cities and towns across this country.

I travel from Rathfarnham to college each day. My route is mostly safe because cycle lanes are mounted on a higher level from the road. Cyclists and traffic are separated. This makes it easier for me to move and acts as an added incentive to use this mode of transport.

I can fully understand why people are hesitant to use a bike. Dublin is not contusive to it. We need proper cycle lanes that are separated from the road in order to make our city an example for the world. I propose that Dublin aim to have these lanes on all streets by 2025. This is an ambitious target but I have faith that the government and local authorities can heed this call.

If we want to encourage more people to go by bike and reduce pressure on our over-crowded transport system, there needs to be more investment in cycling infrastructure. Additional people on a bike reduces queues to get on a Luas in the morning. It saves individuals having to sit on a cramped bus. Most importantly, much needed exercise is provided which is a great start to the day.

The benefits of more lanes are clear for everyone to see. Tweet your support for this proposal by sharing the article across all social media and using the hashtag #Cyclist2025 in order to encourage those in power to listen to the proposal. Change is closer than you think.

By Cian Byrne