He has shot presidents; he survived an air crash, and has worked on projects ranging from New Orleans in the US to St Petersburg in Russia within the last year. Neil Warner has dedicated his life to Corporate photography; his career has taken him to various corners of the world, to sky highs and to underwater depths below Ireland’s deepest harbour. A testament to his lifetime dedication to photography shall be made to Warner by the International Photography Council (IPC), a division of the United Nations, as he is awarded a Leadership Medal in New York City on May 22nd 2013.The third ever European to receive the award, Warner has been singled out for his leadership of European photography over the past five years.  

With an astounding number of awards under his belt, it is no surprise that Warner is being recognised for his skill and passion of photography. With vast experience in Corporate Photography, Warner has photographed four Irish Presidents and numbers Aras an Uachtaráin among his clients. With clients that include  Dublin Aerospace and major players in the medical, biomedical and technological industries and a range of International hotels, Warner’s powerful, colourful and insightful photography has received great critical acclaim while affording him the opportunity to travel the globe.

Team DMPR wish him well on his trip to America this week to receive the award! To view Warner’s work visit www.warnercorporatephotography.com

May 9th – 12th, 2013

Travel through time, learn Renaissance dance, witness close up magic and be transported by a rich tapestry of medieval renaissance and baroque vocal and instrumental music at The Galway Early Music Festival. Now in its 18^th year, the festival will be officially opened this evening by City Arts Officer James Harrold, at 6pm in Sheridan’s Wine Bar, Galway and will run May 12th. The festival’s theme ‘Word Play: which came first – words or music?’ celebrates 17th century Roman music, the performance of Early Irish poetry and takes a playful look at the dark side of fairytales.

Full programme of events and tickets are available from www.galwayearlymusic.com

2013 highlights:

 Thursday 9^th May at Sheridan’s Wine Bar, 6.30pm:  The Official opening of The 17^th Galway Early Music Festival by James Harrold  

 Thursday May ^9th, 8pm at St. Nicholas Collegiate Church: Words from the Book, St Nicholas Schola Cantorum with the Reading Male Voice Choir

 Friday May 10^th, 1pm, Druid Lane Theatre: Lost Innocence: Pastoral Music & Poetry through the Ages

 Friday 10^th May 6pm, An Taibhearc:  Official Opening of Lorna Donlon’s art exhibition: Sonnets for the Cradle

 Friday 10^th May 6pm, An Taibhearc:  Sonnets for the Cradle

 Saturday May 11^th, 11am at The King’s Head Pub: Family Event, Nemo Medieval Magician

 Saturday 11^th May, Galway City Museum, 1-2pm & 3-4pm: workshop and demonstration of dances that are danced to song.

 Saturday 11^th May, St Nicholas Collegiate Church  8:00 pm: Eloquent and Elevated Atalante and Resurgam Chamber Choir

 Sunday 12^th May, Aughnanure Castle, 3pm: Family Event, Nemo Medieval Magician

 Sunday 12^th May, Aughnanure Castle, Oughterard, Co Galway 5pm & 7pm: Guth Binn agus Téada Óir  Ann Heymann (Gaelic Harp) with Charlie Heymann (vocals) and Simon O’Dwyer (pre-historic and medieval Irish horns)

Officially launched by the Mayor of Galway, Councillor Tom Welby, an ÉCONOMUSÉE is an artisan business that opens its doors to the public to provide a learning and interpretive experience for visitors, and the Connemara Smokehouse is one of the few remaining specialists in Ireland making smoked wild salmon & smoked Tuna. The ÉCONOMUSÉE, which acts as a working museum, allows visitors to explore the highly-skilled process, handed down through the generations of the Roberts family.

Owned and operated by Graham and Saoirse Roberts, the ÉCONOMUSÉE at The Connemara Smokehouse develops the educational aspect of the fish smoking expertise that has been handed down through the Robert’s family since 1979. The ECONOMUSÉE showcases this artisan process, which begins by catching the fresh salmon, tuna, herring and mackerel from the Atlantic Ocean’s pristine waters off the west coast of Ireland. The seafood is then hand-filleted, dry-salted, seasoned and smoked subtly with beechwood at the Connemara Smokehouse before it is ready for the retail market.

An ÉCONOMUSÉE is an important cultural tourism attraction and contributes to the sustainability of rural areas through the creation of direct employment and by providing an attraction that disperses tourists to rural regions. Speaking at the opening, Teagasc Regional Advisory Manager Brendan Heneghan said: “The ÉCONOMUSÉE concept originated 20 years ago in Quebec, Canada, where there are now over 50 ÉCONOMUSÉE’s contributing to employment and the maintenance of local skills and knowledge in traditional rural businesses ranging from artisan food to boat building.”

“Needless to say we are thrilled to be the first food ÉCONOMUSÉE in Ireland and now a member of this prestigious network. We aim to build on this success as the opening of the ÉCONOMUSÉE today allows Saoirse and I to realise some of our long term dreams and plans for the business. It also showcases Connemara globally, which in turn should benefit other businesses locally and the seafood industry on a national scale,” commented Graham Roberts of the Connemara Smokehouse.

For further details on the Connemara Smokehouse ÉCONOMUSÉE visit www.smokehouse.ie.

Signalling the start of the summer season, highlights of this year’s festival include professional mussel cookery demonstrations from the award winning chef Tim O’Sullivan from the Renvyle House Hotel, Master Chef Jack Duffy from the Elephant & Castle, Temple Bar, Dublin, and Joe Flaherty, Head Chef from The Brasserie on the Corner, Galway. Watch some familiar faces feel the heat in the kitchen as they battle it out for the title of best chef at the celebrity cook-off! The Amateur Chef cooking competition is always a major highlight of the festival weekend, along with the GMIT School of Catering students’ competition.

Ramble through the range of local, artisan and handmade craft & food produce at the County Market, running throughout the weekend. Musical entertainment will take place throughout the weekend and highlights include Ceili at the Crossroads with the Swallowtails Ceili Band. Festival goers can take part in interactive workshops on Beekeeping and Foraging. Enjoy an informative talk on the prominent German philosopher ‘Wittengenstein’, who spent time in a cottage at Rosroe on Killary Harbou, while the ‘Taste of Connemara Land & Sea’ buffet and live music by ‘Reflex’ brings the 2013 festival to a close.

For those who love the scenic outdoors, take a heritage walk through the majestic scenery of Renvyle, learn the art of fly fishing with the captain of the Irish Flyfishing Team, or cruise along the beautiful Killary Harbour on the ‘Connemara Lady’ while taking in a visit to a working mussel farm. View an exhibition of work by local artists or enjoy the dramatic presentations and children’s story telling, ensuring an unforgettable festival weekend. The local pubs will also host an array of traditional music sessions and live entertainment, with tantalising mussels readily available to savour throughout the weekend.

“The West certainly knows how to throw a festival and the Connemara Mussel Festival promises to be no exception! Now in its 8^th year the festival is always a highlight for seafood lovers and indeed those who enjoy the distinct ambience & setting of North Connemara. This year’s programme of entertainment promises to be the best yet, with an array of event planned for all the family with most free of charge to attend. We are also delighted to have a selection of the country’s top chefs on board and of course head judge for the weekend Máirín Uí Chomáin, author of Irish Mussel Cuisine ,” says Gerry Coyne, Chairperson of the Connemara Mussel Festival.

To explore the full programme of events for the 2013 Connemara Mussel Festival visit:

www.connemaramusselfestival.com / www.facebook.com/connemaramusselfestival

With a different craft discipline taking place every Saturday from 12-4pm until November 2013, designers will be on-hand at each bespoke demonstration and workshop to share their expertise and imagination, while creating personalised and affordable pieces of bespoke craft for visitors to the village. 

A creative hub for Irish designers and makers in the midlands, the village is centrally located off the M6 Motorway on the outskirts of Athlone, ensuring it’s a convenient drive to many from the main cities and towns of Ireland. Forging a unique platform for craft and design, Ballinahown Eco-Craft village utilises the distinctive natural resources, environment and talents of the midlands, ensuring its success and identity as an authentic craft village. For further details visit www.ballinahowncraftvillage.com

The Galleon is a traditional Irish family restaurant located in Salthill since 1965, and now in its third generation of the same family.  The Irish language is evident on both interior and exterior signage, on menus, marketing and on their website and social media. They also employ several Irish speaking staff members who can cater for customers through Irish. This was the Galleon’s first time to enter the Gradam and clearly their dedicated and consistent efforts were worthwhile.

The Galleon Restaurant was named as the winner of the ‘Tourism & Hospitality Category’ sponsored by Fáilte Ireland and went on to scoop the overall award on the night. McCambridge’s of Galway was announced as the winners of the ‘Retail Category’, sponsored by Galway Bay FM. Colette Kelly Optometrist was announced as the winner of the ‘Services Category’, sponsored by Snap Galway.  The Eyre Square Centre was announced as the winner of the ‘Other Companies’ Category sponsored by Acadamh na hOllscolaíochta Gaeilge, Ollscoil na hÉireann Gaillimh.

Gradam Sheosaimh Uí Ógartaigh, is Galway’s annual bilingual business Award that ‘recognises’, ‘honours’ and ‘celebrates’ all the great bilingual work done in Galway City and is organised by Gaillimh le Gaeilge  in association with the Galway Advertiser and with special support of the Galway Chamber.  The Gradam is named in honour of Seosamh Ó hÓgartaigh, founding member and company secretary of Gaillimh le Gaeilge.

Visit www.gleg.ie for more information.

EmployAbility Galway Calls on local employers

 EmployAbility Galway is a “Supported Employment” service for people with disabilities in GalwayCityand County that are job ready and looking for work.  Driven to find the best fit work placement for each client, Award Winning EmployAbility Galway is hosting an employer’s breakfast meeting on Friday 12^th of April in the 5 Star g Hotel.

 Commencing at 8.30am until 12pm noon, the breakfast meeting aims to show employers inGalwaythe contribution that people with disabilities can make to their workplace.  The event will also give employers a chance to discuss practical ways of developing equality practices, and create more inclusive workplaces to the benefit of all parties.  The event will give employers the opportunity to meet with the EmployAbility Galway team over a morning brew, as well as hearing some inspirational success stories.

Speakers at the event aim to highlight the abilities of people with disabilities and will share their stories from personal experience, as employers, employees, and as coaches or mentors. Guest speakers include Irene Collins, Managing Director, Excellence Ireland Quality Assurance and Norman Black, Operations Manager, JFC Manufacturing. EmployAbilityGalway will also introduce their new patron Sean O’Coisdealbha at the event.

“We are delighted to be hosting this employer’s event which has been partly sponsored by the g Hotel and D’Arcy Marketing & PR. It is so important for our clients that local employers are aware of the benefits of developing diversity in the workplace”, said Pauline O’Dwyer, Coordinator, EmployAbility Galway, “It can really enhance a company’s culture, as work can become a more positive place for all when staff see the obstacles a co-worker will overcome to be at work.”

Winners of the Ghradam Sheosaimh Uí Ógartaigh Award 2012 EmployAbility Galway work with both private

Sinéad Cassidy, Sales & PR Manager, g Hotel, Amanda Gibbins, Group HR Manager, Nestors SuperValu, Nigel Finnerty, g Hotel Job Shadow participant, Pauline O’Dwyer, EmployAbility Galway, Mary Kennedy, EmployAbility Galway and Ciarán Connolly, g Hotel Job Shadow participant.

and public sectors including large organisations and SME’s, in various industry sectors including  manufacturing, hospitality, retail, IT, construction and financial services .  They are driven to place people in employment to improve the quality of their lives, realise their dreams and goals and find them a good fit in terms of job placement.  To achieve their goals they need the support and participation of local employers. Come along to the event on Friday 12th April from 8.30am in the g Hotel, Galway and discover the difference you can make to the lives of people with disabilities.

The City of the Tribes continues to live up to its reputation as the cultural heart of Ireland with over 200 events announced as part of The Galway Gatherings 2013. From the Aran Islands to Athenry and further afield, a gathering is planned in almost every town across the city and county! Jointly led by Galway city and council, the announcement of The Galway Gathering as part of the Gathering Ireland 2013 was held at a reception in Aras Na Contae, Galway city with a clear message emerging – Galway’s diaspora are Gathering and there is plenty of time for people to organise their own Gathering event!

The event was attended by Jim Miley (Project Director of The Gathering Ireland), Ronan Foley (CEO of IPB), Martin Moloney (County Manager, Galway County Council), Joe O’ Neill (Acting City Manager, Galway City Council), Keith Finnegan (Event MC and Chair of the Galway Gatherings Steering Committee), Declan Dooley (President of Galway Chamber of Commerce), Mayor of Galway County (Cllr Thomas Welby), Mayor of Galway City (Cllr Terry O Flaherty), Henry Healy (Ireland Reaching Out, member of the Galway Gatherings Steering Committee and Barrack Obamas Irish cousin), Shaun Quinn (CEO of Failte Ireland), Fiona Monaghan (Head of Operations Failte Ireland West) as well as Gathering organisers from across the county. Galway Gathering festival and event organisers wore attire reflective of their own event and guests were entertained by world class global event specialists Arcana, providing a stellar theatrical performance.

Recognised as a key anchor of the Gathering Ireland 2013, the Galway Gathering programme announced today span a variety of fields including; culture, sport, food, music and heritage, and will certainly enhance a growing calendar of home-grown Gatherings. Speaking at the launch event today Jim Miley, Project Director of The Gathering Ireland said “Today’s launch is very important for The Gathering Ireland, Galway is seen as one the cultural hubs of Ireland and the Gathering is first and foremost an opportunity for us to celebrate the best of Ireland: our culture, our music, our sport, our heritage and our spirit.  This programme will showcase the best of what this county provides and it is fantastic to see individuals and communities taking to the Gathering concept to heart”

Galway certainly knows how to host a festival, renowned for its avant-garde culture and legacy of internationally recognised events including; the Volvo Ocean Race, Galway Races Summer Festival and Galway International Arts Festival, Ballinasloe Horse Fair, Clifden Community Arts Festival. The Galway Gatherings will be no exception!

Galway Gathering Coordinator Brian Barrett said “I’m delighted to see that so many groups and organisations throughout the highways and byways of Count Galway East and west of the River Corrib and the City of the Tribes Galway have mobilised behind the Gathering. Galway has so much to offer the overseas visitors and the Galway Gatherings 2013 offers further reasons for us all to invite family and friends from overseas to mark 2013. From the contemporary vibe of the city to the ruggedness of the coastline and the ecclesiastical trails across the East of the county, the Galway Gathering continues to generate positive economic impact for tourism and the Irish economy. However it’s the reigniting of the community spirit that is at the heart of this year-long celebration. For further information on Galway Gatherings 2013 and to see how you can get involved visit: www.thegatheringireland.com.

Crew at work in Connemara

Gréasán na Meán Skillnet represents a growing core of the various media industries predominantly based in the West of Ireland and have identified media training needs that can be best addressed through an innovative and collaborative approach to training. One of which, is the training initiative Scéal.  Following on from the successes of previous courses Síol, Údar the Scéal initiative hosted a one week’s director’s workshop. The course provides an opportunity for six novice directors to develop new pieces of work under the tutelage of experts in drama direction. On completion of the workshop each director will have the chance to film their short films throughout May and June 2013 for broadcast on TG4 later in the year.

From over 70 applications submitted to the Scéal initiative, six were chosen for development. Through mentoring under Multi-Award Winning directors Declan Recks (Eden, Pure Mule), Paddy Breathnach (Man about Dog, Shrooms) and Dearbhla Walsh (Little Dorrit, Shameless), these emerging directors will discuss their individual scripts and filming concepts with their mentors and will then have the opportunity to film two scenes from their short film. Working with a full crew, the directors will get a feel for working on a live set. This fantastic experience will result in the development of their skills and eventually the production of six high quality, well crafted short films.

Declan Recks and Cathal o Cuaig

 Inspired by the rich Irish tradition of storytelling, each film in the series adapts to screen a visual and compelling script while celebrating emerging Irish talent. Sínte, written and directed by Tom Sullivan, Lá Bhreá Chuige, written by Deborah Grimes and directed by Louise Ní Fhiannachta, Ar Fán written by Bridget Bhreathnach and directed by Ruán Magan,  Grá mo Chroí written and directed by Cathal ó Cuaig, Díoltas written by Marion Ní Loingsigh and directed by Séamus Moran and An Chúirt written and directed by Seán T. O’Meallaigh.

Children attending Easter Sunday lunch can uncover the magic, making and history of the world’s favourite treat, participating in tastings and a creative demonstration along with learning tips from an expert chocolatier. The master class allows children aged 5 – 12 years old to mould their own chocolate pralines, figurines and Easter eggs, fruit-dip in the chocolate fountain, temper on a marble slab and learn fun chocolate facts, while enjoying a warm glass of hot chocolate in the Parlour Lounge!

The young at heart won’t miss out on savouring the chocolaty fun at Hotel Meyrick. Adult master classes promise to treat the sights, smells and tastes. Sample the finest chocolate at an intimate tasting experience, try your hand at a moulding and tempering workshop, all blended together with a tasty talk on the history of chocolate. Benoit prides himself on following the traditions of the true French artisan while creating his own unique chocolates, which are incorporated in opulent table decorations, served as petits fours and available in a variety of gourmet shops. Book now to see the master at work during a chocolate moulding demonstration; it’s the perfect Easter celebration.

Before indulging your sweet tooth, savour a wholesome 3 course lunch in Hotel Meyrick’s Oyster Grill restaurant, overlooking the bustling streetscapes of Eyre Square. A donation from each lunch will be made to ACT for Meningitis, thus you will be supporting a worthy cause while enjoying a delicious meal. Comprised of traditional favourites and Easter specials, this flavoursome meal is made with the very best locally sourced produce by the dedicated kitchen team at Hotel Meyrick. Pre-booking is advised as places are limited.

“Easter is a time of indulgence and we wanted to add a fun element to our Easter Sunday lunch that would appeal to adults and children alike!” says Cian O’Broin, General Manager, Hotel Meyrick. “And what better way to celebrate Easter than with a chocolate master class. We’re really looking forward to the event, Benoit Lorge is a truly amazing chocolatier and welcomes all chocolate lovers to come and take part.”

The Hotel Meyrick Children’s chocolatier master class can be enjoyed as part of a scrumptious 3 course Easter Sunday lunch from just €25 per adult and €12.50 per child, available from 12.30pm – 2pm on Sunday 31st March. Pre-booking is essential for this special chocolate event. To book Easter Sunday lunch or to register your place in the Adults chocolate master class call 091 564041 or email pfeeney@hotelmeyrick.ie. For further information see www.hotelmeyrick.ie.