We’re always delighted when the Irish sun decides to make an appearance. Gardens fill up, beaches get busy, and our pets are never far from the action. But while most of us reach for the sunscreen, we often forget that some of our furry friends may need protection too.

Many owners are surprised when I tell them that pets can get sunburn.

Dogs with white or thin coats are particularly at risk. The nose, ear tips and even the tummy can burn after spending too much time sunbathing. And let’s be honest, some dogs would happily lie in the sunshine all day if we let them!

Cats can also suffer from sun damage, especially those with white ears and pink noses. In fact, repeated exposure to sunlight can lead to a type of skin cancer called Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC), one of the most common skin cancers we see in cats.

The tricky part is that it often starts with what looks like a harmless little scab. Owners may think their cat picked up a scratch while climbing a fence or chasing a bird. But if a sore on the ears or nose doesn’t heal, it’s worth getting it checked.

Fortunately, prevention is quite simple. Providing shade, limiting sun exposure during the brightest part of the day, and using pet-safe sunscreen in high-risk animals can make a huge difference. And before you raid your own sunscreen bottle, remember that human products aren’t always safe for pets.

We spend a lot of time talking about vaccines, flea treatments and healthy diets, but sometimes a little sun protection is just as important. Your vet can advise whether your pet would benefit from one and recommend a suitable product.

So while you’re enjoying the sunshine this summer, spare a thought for your four-legged family members too. They’ll thank you for it, probably by finding the sunniest spot in the house and ignoring your advice completely! “

By Dave Kavanagh

Despite every financial institution, news outlet, vloggers and even dedicated TV shows all constantly warning us how to avoid a variety of scams, not only are they still being attempted but they are still catching people out, with reported payment fraud estimated in Ireland of €160 million per year (based on 2024). Of course, many scams go unreported so it is most likely the figure is much higher than this. The scams range from simple text messages, either trying to persuade you to click on a hyperlink, or pretending to be one of your children who has a new phone number and needs you to send them money, to phone calls pretending to be your internet service provider, your credit/debit card company or an online store such as Amazon. There are also texts and emails needing you to pay a small customs charge on a delivery. Remember, if scammers send out 20,000 of these texts, there’s bound to be a number of people who are expecting a delivery, or have had a recent internet connection problem etc., so it makes them more convincing to some.

So what can you do to minimise the risk of being scammed? Firstly, if in any doubt, do not click on hyperlinks, no matter how genuine they appear. You could be downloading malware or giving scammers access to your digital device. If you’re concerned, contact the real company through the usual methods of contact that you have (not one that is given to you by scammers!). If you receive a phone call from someone who claims to be from one of the types of companies listed above, firstly, do not give away any information at all. If they say they are calling from Eir, do not say “but we’re with Vodafone”. You’re just giving them additional information to use to call you again in a couple of months. Ask them any questions you think relevant, then end the call and contact the company directly. The main thing is to be vigilant and cautious of unexpected contact.

Dave Kavanagh QFA has been advising people financially for over 25 years. For quotes or information (with no cost or obligation) he can be contacted by emailing info@financialcompanion.ie or use the contact form on www.financialcompanion.ie or @Davekav_advice on Twitter and Instagram. Combined with his previous role of gym/nutrition adviser, he regularly gives talks and workshops at seminars and events for groups, companies and government departments on financial wellbeing, positivity and motivation. As heard on RTE 2FM , LMFM and TV3.

The EPIC Irish Immigration Museum is an award winning interactive, immersive experience. Perfect for all age groups. With 5 star visitor reviews, it’s a must see.

Dublinia welcomes you to the heart of Viking and Medieval Dublin. Travel back to the heart of the old city at Christchurch. Walk where Vikings walked, step into Medieval Dublin, find out about Dublin’s rich past and climb an original Medieval tower!

The Wax Museum Plus in Dublin has a special summer offer, family entrance for only €50, that’s 20% off! Interactive and fun, it’s great to visit.

For lunch on family days out, we love Shake Dog. Yummy hotdogs, burgers, shakes & more. Family friendly and affordable. To win Shake Dog vouchers, go to mams.ireland FB!

Visiting Dublin city? We recommend staying at Bracken Court Hotel Balbriggan. 5 min walk to beach. 5 mins to train station and only 30 minutes by train to Dublin City.

Irish National Stud is another fantastic day out. Meet the baby foals, follow the fairy trail, have a delicious lunch and let the kids run free!

For family getaways, Farnham Estate has a stunning spa, woodland walks, indoor/outdoor pool and award-winning dining. Our children love the pancakes at breakfast The Tomahawk steak for couples is an amazing dining experience!

Bounce n Beyond Ballyboughal has trampolines, soft play area and a Sensory Room. Let the kids bounce themselves tired!

The Gem Treatery Balbriggan has play area, acai bowls, crepés, sandwiches, coffee and multiple ice-cream flavours, including whipped for 99‘s! We had my nephew’s birthday party there. With a dedicated hostess, games and cake decorating, it was brill!

For Back To School we highly recommend personalised products! www.wanapix.ie water bottles, backpacks and pencil cases can be personalised with your child’s name, and they can choose the colour & style! Use code MAMSWANAPIX26 for 10% off.

For school uniforms, coats etc. MyNametags labels and stickers are superb. Personalise with your child’s name and your number and if anything’s misplaced, you’ll hopefully get it back. Cheaper than buying replacements!

Back to school is super busy for Mammies, so we’re giving away Charlotte Tilbury, Flormar & Gionni goodies for you amazing gals. Enter at:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/mams.ireland/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mams.ie/?hl=en
And www.mams.ie

By Mike Power

One of the most defensively strong parts of Swords Castle, this gate has altered much over time, especially in the later buildings attaching to it. The original castle here would have been surrounded by a moat, the water diverted from the nearby Ward River, with a drawbridge crossing over it. The compressed space within the gate, was designed as a murder zone, arrows and heavy objects being rained down on the heads of any closely grouped attackers.

The earlier photo (c 1880s), shows an earnest group of Victorian antiquarians (mostly clergymen), posing beside two poor-looking Irish women. Note the thatched roof of their home and their rough and ready appearance, most Swords buildings of that period having been similar the photographer, by contrasting these two very different classes of Irish folk, sends an implicit message of : ‘English Ascendancy good’ - ‘Irish backward and bad’. These unhelpful attitudes to the native Irish characterised those held by many of the upper classes within Swords for generations.

Summer is finally here, and with the longer days come more opportunities to enjoy the outdoors with our pets. Whether it’s a walk on the beach, a hike through the countryside, or simply exploring the local park, our dogs are spending more time in nature.

Unfortunately, they’re not the only ones enjoying the warm weather, ticks are too.

Ticks are small parasites that feed on blood and can be found in long grass, woodland areas, parks, andeven some gardens. Over the past few years, we have seen increasing numbers of ticks in Ireland, and they don’t just affect dogs and cats. They can also bite people.

Most tick bites are harmless, but ticks can transmit diseases to both animals and humans. The good news is that prevention is simple and highly effective.

Modern parasite prevention products can protect against ticks, fleas, mites, and some internal parasites. Depending on your pet’s lifestyle, our veterinary team can help you choose the most appropriate option.

It’s also a good idea to check your pet after walks, particularly around the ears, neck, mouth, armpits, and between the toes. If you find a tick attached, avoid squeezing or twisting it. Instead, use a proper tick-removal tool and contact your veterinary clinic if you’re unsure how to remove it safely. We can help you with it.

Remember that parasite prevention isn’t just about protecting your pet. It also helps protect your family, especially children, older relatives, and those with weakened immune systems.

This summer, enjoy the sunshine, the walks, and the adventures, but don’t forget about the tiny hitchhikers waiting in the grass. A little prevention now can save a lot of problems later.

From all of us at Village Vets Lusk, we wish you and your pets a happy, healthy, and tick-free summer.

Introduction

Homeopathy is a complementary system of medicine that uses natural substances to stimulate the body’s own healing response. It was developed over 200 years ago by Dr. Samuel Hahnemann and it takes a holistic approach, treating the individual rather than simply addressing symptoms. Medicines are tailored to each person, with the aim of supporting overall health and addressing the underlying cause of illness. Homeopathy is used for a wide range of conditions, including colds and flu, digestive disorders, minor injuries, skin complaints, asthma, pain, joint problems, migraines, urinary tract infections, insomnia, sinusitis, infertility, cancer care support, mental well-being, developmental disorders and allergies.

Hay Fever

Homeopathy is a natural treatment option for hay fever and can be used safely by both adults and children. It works by stimulating the body’s own healing processes and can bring rapid relief from symptoms. Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is often a chronic condition, and professional homeopathic care may relieve acute symptoms while reducing the likelihood and severity of future episodes. Hay fever occurs when the immune system overreacts to allergens such as pollen or dust. Common symptoms include a runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, and red, itchy, watery eyes. Conventional treatment typically involves antihistamines or steroid-based medications, which often cause difficult side effects. Homeopathic remedies have an edge because they are prepared from natural substances and do not cause these side effects. Unlike conventional treatments, Homeopathic treatment works from the inside – so rather than suppressing the symptoms, the aim is to reduce recurrence and boost overall health. The most suitable remedy is the one that best matches your individual symptoms.

Some useful Remedies Homeopathic for Hay Fever Arsenicum Album - Often used for thin, watery, burning nasal discharge accompanied by sneezing, watery eyes, restlessness, and fatigue. Allium Cepa - A leading remedy for seasonal allergies affecting both the nose and eyes. Symptoms may include an acrid irritating nasal discharge, bland tears, sneezing fits, an itchy throat and mild headaches. Symptoms often improve in cool, fresh air. Sabadilla - Commonly used for intense, spasmodic sneezing with a runny nose, along with dry itching and tickling in the nose that causes frequent rubbing or picking. Kali Bichromicum - Helpful where nasal obstruction is prominent, especially with a sensation of fullness or pressure at the root of the nose. Euphrasia - An important remedy when eye symptoms predominate. Red, watery, irritated eyes are common, and symptoms generally improve in the open air but worsen in wind. Pulsatilla - Very useful in hay fever which produces a great deal of catarrh, with thick yellow or green discharge from eyes and nose. Gelsemium - Often used for flu-like symptoms and hay fever marked by frequent earlymorning sneezing and a feeling of fullness at the bridge of the nose. Symptoms can include a dull headache, watery light-sensitive eyes, heavy eyelids and fatigue with drowsiness.

If you or a family member experience recurring hay fever or allergies, consider consulting a qualified homeopath for personalised support. Michael Farrelly, the author, is a homeopath with over twenty years of experience treating a wide range of ailments. He is based in Donabate, County Dublin, and can be contacted at (086) 159 6119 or via email at farrellym@hotmail.com

By Declan Glynn

Recently voted European Car of the Year 2026, the new Mercedes-Benz CLA now comes in all-electric versions as well as high-tech mild hybrid drivetrain models, plus the availability of 4MATIC all-wheel drive within the range. It is the all-electric CLA that is the subject of this review.

The new CLA’s exterior features a sporty ‘shark-nose’ front and a streamlined silhouette, helped by frameless doors with flush-fitting handles. The now-familiar chromed ‘star-studded’ grille and ‘star-shaped’ headlights and taillights add emphasis to its parentage. The front end is dominated by a large three-pointed star, and the 142 smaller stars that surround it light up on all-electric models, as does the light bar that stretches across the entire front of the car. This results in a striking effect after dark that provides the car with a truly distinctive look. Optimised aerodynamic wheel designs channel airflow efficiently around the car’s wheel arches, and airflow is carefully managed ahead of the axles using sculpted spoilers and rear diffusers to great effect.
The most eye-catching highlight in the new CLA’s cabin is the new MBUX Superscreen, which extends across the entire width of the dashboard, while the two-tiered centre console sits high for a sporty feel, and features a wireless charging pad. The expansive fixed panoramic roof maximises headroom and fills the cabin with natural light, offering a spacious, airy feel.

The all-electric (BEV) Mercedes-Benz CLA is available in four versions (badged CLA 200, CLA 250, CLA 250+, and CLA 350), with the choice of ‘Progressive Line’ or ‘AMG Line’ trim grades across all versions, along with many additional optional packages . The innovative 800-volt electric architecture used by Mercedes-Benz significantly reduces charging times, allowing the CLA 250+, for example, to achieve a 325km charge in less than 10 minutes. Usable battery capacities extend from 58kWh to 85kWh (model dependent), with potentially achievable WLTP range figures of between 529km and 790km possible – depending on the battery capacity chosen.

My Mercedes-Benz CLA 200 Electric ‘AMG Line’ looked magnificent in its Alpine Grey solid paintwork (a cost-option), and sporty 18-inch AMG 5-spoke light-alloy wheels, along with exclusive AMG Line exterior and interior enhancements. The rear-mounted electric motor is powered by a 58kWh battery, which provides a WLTP range of up to 529kms when fully charged. Producing 224hp and 335Nm of instant torque, a 0-100km/h sprint can be completed in 7.5-seconds. The CLA Electric’s overall drivability is genuinely impressive. The steering weight and response feel properly calibrated, and the regenerative braking is smooth and predictable in its operation. The ride quality strikes a perfect balance that all occupants will enjoy, and refinement at motorway speed is exceptional. Sharp corners and twisty bends on back roads enable the driver to make the most of the car’s rear-drive layout, while the combination of a powerful rear motor and rear-biased weight balance make the CLA feel stable and well-planted on the road. Pricing starts from €53,425 (inclusive of VRT Relief and a €3,500 SEAI Grant for private buyers).

By Jack Shanley

Steven Spielberg returns to familiar territory with Disclosure Day, a science-fiction thriller that asks one big question: what would happen if the world finally learned the truth about alien life? The result is a film that feels both classic Spielberg and surprisingly modern.

The story follows a group of people caught in the middle of a global revelation involving hidden government secrets and evidence that humanity is not alone. While the plot occasionally becomes complicated, Spielberg keeps focus on the human side of the story. This isn’t just a movie about aliens; it’s about fear, trust, and how people react when everything they believe is suddenly challenged.

Emily Blunt delivers one of the strongest performances in the film. She brings intelligence and emotional weight to a character, trying to make sense of extraordinary events. Josh O’Connor is equally impressive, giving the movie much of its heart. Together, they make the high-concept story feel grounded and believable.

Visually, Disclosure Day is exactly what audiences expect from Spielberg. The film is packed with stunning imagery, suspenseful sequences, and moments of genuine wonder. Several scenes capture the sense of awe that made films like Close Encounters of the Third Kind and E.T. so memorable. Spielberg still knows how to create movie magic on a massive scale and proves so especially towards the final act of the film.

The film’s biggest strength is its optimism. At a time when many science-fiction movies focus on destruction and chaos, Disclosure Day is more interested in communication, understanding, and hope. That hopeful tone gives the film a refreshing identity, even if some viewers may find its message a little too idealistic.

Not everything works perfectly. The running time feels long, and a few supporting characters are underdeveloped. There are also moments when the story tries to juggle too many ideas at once. Some viewers may wish the film spent more time exploring the worldwide impact of its central revelation.

Even with certain flaws, Disclosure Day succeeds because of Spielberg’s confident direction and its belief in humanity’s ability to rise above fear. It may not rank among the director’s absolute masterpieces, but it is an entertaining, thoughtful, and emotionally satisfying return to the kind of science fiction he does better than almost anyone else.

In all truth I’d recommend checking out ‘Disclosure Day’ and see what you think of it, I shall give it a score of Three ½ stars. You can watch it at your local cinema today. Director: Steven Spielberg – Rating: 12A – Genre: Sci-fi/Fantasy – Run Time: 2h 25m Language: English. For more film content please follow @screen_.addicts on Instagram.

“Yay, summer holidays are here! 8 weeks of entertaining, constant feeding and doing referee!

We space out treats and trips over the summer and our kids earn pocket money by doing chores!

For days out….
Malahide Castle & Gardens is a fab place to picnic, there’s a playground too. Newbridge House & Farm in Donabate is another great spot to spend a day letting the kids run around.

Beyond the Trees Avondale Treetop Walks are beautiful and they’ll be hosting concerts in their Walled Garden this summer.
Going on holidays? We use personalised labels and stickers from MyNametags.ie on kids clothes & toys. Also, brilliant for labelling back to

school essentials.
For personalising Water Bottles, Backpacks, Clothing & lots more, go to www.wanapix.ie and use code MAMSWANAPIX26 for 10% off. Lots on there for kids and Back to school.

Bounce & Beyond in Ballyboughal is brill for letting kids run off steam.

Arc Cinema has lots of family friendly movies on. With the World Cup on, Smyths Toys has cool outdoor football themed toys to get kids off screens and out playing!

Skypark in Carlingford is a fun day out for all ages. Zipwires, games & team activities - great craic!

We’ve brilliant competitions on mams.ie & our socials for Skypark, An Grian Jewellery, iGlow, Shake Dog Vouchers, Fíor Jewellery, Freddy jeans & lots more!”

By Dave Kavanagh

Nobody goes to work thinking that something may occur leaving them with no income for a period of time. Many people realised how vulnerable they were when the pandemic arrived, dropping some incomes from €600, €800 or €1,000+ per week down to €350 of PUP. Many don’t give much consideration to how they would cope if they suffered a loss of income for an extended period because they think “it’ll never happen to me”. Sadly, many find out the hard way following an injury or illness that keeps them out of work for months or even years. This is where having Income Protection in place, can be the difference between maintaining a level of income that keeps your lifestyle virtually unchanged, or dropping to a level that could force you to use up any savings and also get into financial difficulty. Missing or being late with a few mortgage payments will have an impact on your credit rating making it difficult or impossible to secure credit for a number of years.

So how does it work? Depending on your circumstances, you choose an appropriate level of cover. This is based on not exceeding 75% of your salary, less any state income entitlement. You also choose a “deferred period” which refers to how long you are off work before payments commence. If you are hospitalised during this period, some plans pay a daily benefit even during the deferred period.The premiums are based on factors like your age and occupation, as some occupations would leave you more at risk of not being able to work. There is also tax relief on premiums paid for income protection, which could mean up to 40% of your premium is refunded by way of adjusting your tax credits. Considering that almost every aspect of your day to day living is directly dependent on you having an income, it is so important to research this for yourself. If dropping from your current income to the current state benefit is something that would impact badly on you, perhaps it is time to consider.