29th June, 2000
I called out yesterday to the County Hall to tax
my car. Usually when one goes out to tax a car one brings the tax
book, Insurance certificate and a cheque or money. But I forgot
something! My NCT certificate (National Car Test). As I had
passed my NCT a few months ago I was lucky, the County Hall are
linked up to the NCT centre and the woman at hatch one told me I
was alright, my pass showed up on her screen. However, I presume
it can take some time for the NCT centre to send it to the County
Hall. So, don't forget your NCT certificate when you go to have
your car taxed. As usual, the staff at the County Hall are fast
and efficient. Well Done.
While I'm at it, as from this Friday June 30th, you will no
longer be able to pay your telephone bill at Lapps Quay Eircom
Head Office or any other Eircom office. As from next Monday you
may pay your bill through the banks, post offices etc. The good
news is that there will be no staff losses and the present
counter staff will be employed elsewhere within Eircom.
To the reader who asked me if I could do anything about the weeds
and grass on the footpaths in Douglas West? I was on to the
council and they said that they hope to clean up that problem
next week. It's the stretch of path from the bus stop to the area
opposite the Credit Union. The reader also mentioned the
condition of that same footpath which is, she suggested is in
urgent need of repair. Another reader who lives in Calderwood
Estate complained about the condition of the roads in the estate.
He told me that he had been on to local TD's and Councillors but
so far nothing has been done. I know that they read the Weekly,
so they might put this matter to the Council, A.S.A.P.
I called down to Douglas Village S.C. last Thursday night to hear
gardening expert Charlie Wilkins gave a talk and demonstration on
all aspects of gardening. I mentioned last week that
unfortunately I was not green fingered but I must admit that I
really enjoyed the Charlie Wilkins talk, interesting, light-hearted
and funny. I know he will be back soon. On Friday afternoon I
called to Douglas Library to hear well known T.V. and radio
presenter Liam O Murchu do a reading from his book "Black
cat in the window". A charming man who hasn't aged a bit
since Trom agus Aedtrom. A very appreciative audience had a very
enjoyable afternoon. Just make sure you check out what's on in
the Douglas Library every week. The classical music spot on
Friday morning is worth a listen. Speaking of music, this
Saturday July 1st, boy band AZIS are launching their new single
"We want the same thing". One of the members of the
group, Paul tells me that they will be performing live at the
Douglas Village Shopping Centre. The show starts at 4pm.
Last week I congratulated Michael Burke on being elected Chairman
of Grange / Frankfield Residents association. I was wrong! An
apology to Michael and all the residents groups. Michael was
elected Chairman of Grange / Frankfield COMMUNITY Association.
Things are hotting up in the political arena. CJs court case is
postponed due to Mary Harneys gaffe. Wouldn't it be ironic if CJ
Haughey caused the downfall of Mary Harney? It's going to be a
long hot Summer for T.D.'s and Councillors. No Mary Harney, the
Hugh O Flaherty saga won't be forgotten by October. Fianna Fail
was thrashed in Tipperary last week. I'd say a lot of F.F. back
benchers are afraid of an election. My forecast is: A general
election in October, A change of Government, Bertie Ahern being
replaced as leader by Michael Martin, Michael Noonan challenging
John Bruton for the leadership of Fine Gael. Dan Boyle of the
greens to take a Fianna Fail seat in Cork South Central. And
finally, a lot of independent candidates will stand in the next
election and they could decide who forms the next government. I'd
value your opinions on the above.
Good Luck to Geoff and Sally who have taken over Pizza King in
Tory Top Road. Geoff is a professional chef and together with
Sally they have launched a brand new menu (see advert). So the
next time you are sitting at home watching telly and feeling a
little peckish simply Tel: 323555 and your order will be
delivered to your door, mention the Weekly and you will receive a
FREE 1.5 ltr of Coca Cola from Geoff. Where would you get it?
Only from reading the Douglas Weekly.
Finally congratulations to Leslie Deane on his beautiful new
jewellery shop in the Douglas Village Shopping Centre. One of the
most important aspects of any retail business is the after sales
service and Leslie tells me that the service is available six
days a week. So why not call down and check out Douglas Jewellers
in Douglas Village Shopping Centre and you won't be disappointed.
And do support local.
Bye for now. Michael.
P.S. I'm told that a new bus service to Frankfield will begin
next Sunday 2nd July. It will be a mini bus seating 29 and should
run every ten minutes.
