THE 2024 PHOTO BLOG

A VERY BRIEF VISIT TO PARNELL SQUARE

March 16, 2024 by infomatique

A FEW DAYS BEFORE THE ST PATRICK’S DAY PARADE 2024

A follower contacted me to enquire about The Dublin Writers Museum has but unfortunately permanently closed. The museum closed its doors in 2022, after initially shutting down during the COVID-19 pandemic. A combination of factors seems to have contributed, including staffing issues and an assessment suggesting the museum was no longer meeting the expectations of modern visitors. Note: This fascinating museum celebrates the rich literary heritage of Ireland, showcasing the lives and works of greats like Joyce, Yeats, and Beckett but to be honest I found it to be uninteresting mainly because of the way it was organised.

While the museum itself is closed, Fáilte Ireland, the organisation that owned and operated it, still possesses the artefacts. There’s hope these might be displayed again in another venue.

It seems information about its closure hasn’t been widely updated online.

Parnell Square is one of Dublin’s finest examples of Georgian architecture. The elegant townhouses lining the square transport you back to the city’s prosperous 18th-century era.

The Rotunda Rink, where the Irish Volunteers were founded in 1913, was located on the square. This makes it a symbolic site pivotal to Ireland’s fight for independence.

The Garden of Remembrance, located at the north end of the square, honours those who died in pursuit of Irish freedom.

The Hugh Lane Gallery gallery houses a renowned collection of modern and contemporary art, featuring both Irish and international artists. It boasts a reconstructed studio of the famed artist Francis Bacon.

The iconic Gate theatre plays a significant role in the Dublin arts scene, staging Irish and international productions.

Chapter One is a Michelin-starred restaurant located beside the Dublin Writers Museum [now closed], perfect for special occasions and fine dining experiences.

Parnell Square is within walking distance of O’Connell Street (Dublin’s main thoroughfare), the Spire, and the GPO (General Post Office – a pivotal location in the 1916 Easter Rising).

Many bus routes pass through Parnell Square, and it’s close to the Luas tram lines, making it simple to access from other areas of the city.

THE BINMEN WHO LIKE SOFT TOYS

March 16, 2024 by infomatique

EXPLORING WASTE COLLECTION IN IRELAND IN 2024

You might not expect to see a garbage truck covered in soft toys, but that’s exactly what inspired me to take a closer look at waste collection in Ireland.

Discarded Items Given New Life:

A Touch of Joy: Stuffed animals are often associated with childhood and happy memories. By adorning their truck with these items, the workers might be salvaging not just the physical toy but also the sense of warmth it represents.

Second Chances: Similar to how waste is sorted for recycling, the toys are ‘rescued’ from the trash and given a new purpose. This could symbolise hope and the potential for transformation, even within a job focused on discarding things.

Playfulness in Hard Work: Waste collection can be a dirty, physically demanding job. The toys might inject a sense of lightness and playfulness, reminding the workers that even within the practicalities of life, there’s room for fun.

Comfort for Sanitation Workers

Personalised Workspace: Garbage trucks can feel utilitarian. The toys may be a way for workers to personalise their space and make it feel slightly more welcoming on long routes.
Reminding Themselves of Why They Work: Sanitation work is essential to public health and safety. The toys, with their associations with innocence and childhood, could be a subconscious reminder of the positive impact their job has on the community, especially with the protection of vulnerable groups.
Humanising Connection: The toys can humanise sanitation workers in the eyes of the public. It creates a touchpoint and can potentially break down stereotypes of gruff or impersonal workers.

Additional Symbolism

The Journey of Objects: As toys ride along on a garbage truck, they could symbolise the journey our discarded items take. It’s a visual reminder of consumption and waste patterns.
Environmental Warning: Depending on the condition of the toys (tattered, dirty), it could serve as a subtle commentary on wastefulness and the environmental impact of our discarded items.

Ireland’s waste collection system is primarily handled by private companies. This means there can be slight variations in collection schedules and practices depending on your location. Households generally choose a private company to collect waste using a system of colour-coded wheelie bins. Ireland is committed to recycling and waste reduction initiatives, with separate bins for organic waste, recyclables, and general waste.

Households must choose a private company for the collection and disposal of their rubbish bins. Waste is collected every week or two, depending on the type of waste. Some companies collect different types of rubbish on different days. If you live in a rural area with a low population, you may not have a collection service. In this case, you must bring your domestic waste to an approved waste facility in your area.

As already mentioned waste collection companies use colour-coded bins for separating household waste, for example: brown bins for organic waste, green bins for recyclable waste, and black bins are for general waste. Some companies may also offer a glass recycling collection.

As for the future plans, Ireland is moving towards a circular economy model where resources are reused or recycled as much as possible and the generation of waste is minimised. The transition to a circular economy requires a collaborative national response across all sectors of the economy through the lifecycle of products and materials.

The Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy is Ireland’s new roadmap for waste planning and management. This Plan shifts focus away from waste disposal and looks instead to how we can preserve resources by creating a circular economy. The Plan outlines the contribution of the sector to the achievement of a number of other national plans and policies including the Climate Action Plan.

The key targets under the Waste Action Plan for a Circular Economy are: households and businesses recycling targets for waste collectors, standardised bin colours across the State: green for recycling, brown for organic waste and black for residual. Environmental levies for waste recovery and single-use coffee cups to encourage recycling and reuse. A nationwide deposit and return scheme for plastic bottles and aluminium cans. An education and awareness campaign to improve waste segregation. The halving of food waste by 2030. Waste segregation infrastructure for apartment dwellers.

What About The Waste Collection Trucks?

While regular garbage or refuse trucks are used in Ireland, there aren’t any special types unique or specific to the country.

Types of Waste Trucks:

Rear-loader trucks: These are the most common type of garbage truck globally, and Ireland is no exception. They have a rear mechanism that lifts and empties waste bins into a hopper.

Side-loader trucks: These are also used in Ireland. They have a mechanical arm on the side that grabs and empties bins. They’re often seen in residential areas.

Front-loader trucks: Less common in Ireland than the previous two, these are used for large commercial dumpsters.

Truck Features:

Compaction: Modern waste trucks compact trash to maximise space.
Split Hoppers: Some trucks might have separate compartments to collect different types of waste during a single route.

Additional Notes

While Ireland doesn’t have a uniquely designed waste truck, there might be trends towards:

Electric or Hybrid Trucks: Like many countries, there’s a push for more environmentally friendly waste collection vehicles.
Specialised Trucks: Smaller vehicles might be used in areas with narrow streets or access limitations.

GRANBY ROW ONE OF THE BEST PLACES TO VIEW THE PARADE

March 16, 2024 by infomatique

THE DUBLIN ST PATRICKS DAY PARADE BEGINS HERE TOMORROW AT ABOUT NOON

As it will be St Patrick’s Day tomorrow I have taken some liberties with my description of Granby Row. While the security measures have increased over the years to ensure everyone’s safety, it’s still one of the best places to view the parade. Also, you can leave after a while and quickly walk via Capel street and across the River Liffey to where the parade terminates near St Patrick’s and/or Christ Church Cathedral this is a good approach id you wish to video or photograph the parade.

Increased Security and Barriers

Understandable Necessity: With large crowds and a heightened focus on safety, increased security measures are inevitable. After all, event organisers have a duty to protect the well-being of both spectators and participants.
Crowd Control: Barriers serve to channel crowds, create designated viewing areas, and establish clear routes for the parade itself.
Potential Frustrations: While necessary, these barriers can significantly obstruct views, especially for those not at the very front of the designated areas.

The Step Ladder Trend

It should be stressed that the use of step ladders is not officially endorsed or encouraged by the event organisers.

Seeking a Better View: It’s understandable that people want the best possible view of the parade. Step ladders offer an elevated vantage point, especially for children or shorter individuals.
Unfair Advantage: The problem arises when step ladders create an unfair visual barrier for those behind. Suddenly, it’s not just about who arrives early, but about who has the tallest equipment.
Possible Safety Hazard: In crowded areas, step ladders could become tripping hazards, potentially leading to injuries.

Potential Solutions

Designated Elevated Viewing Areas: Organisers might consider having official, raised platforms (with proper safety measures) in specific locations. This could help spread out the crowd and ensure better visibility for more people.
Gentle Reminders: Leading up to the parade, public messaging could discourage the use of step ladders, emphasising fairness and safety for all spectators.
Ticketed Grandstands: While altering the free nature of the event, setting up limited ticketed seating along prime parade routes could offer a guaranteed view for those willing to pay. [This may already be available so you should check the official event website for details.]

Livestreaming the Parade: Enhancing online streaming and potentially setting up large screens in certain areas would give those less keen on huge crowds a different way to enjoy the spectacle.
It’s important to note that there’s no perfect solution. Balancing security, crowd enjoyment, and fairness is a difficult task for parade organisers. Ideally, a combination of solutions with a strong focus on public awareness could make the experience better for everyone.

Granby Row: A Georgian Street with a Festive Spirit

Granby Row is a charming Georgian street located in the heart of Dublin, just off the historic Parnell Square. Its elegant townhouses, with their classic brick facades and tall windows, stand as a testament to Dublin’s 18th-century architectural heritage. Though a beautiful street year-round, Granby Row takes on a special significance during Dublin’s annual St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.

The Parade’s Starting Line

Granby Row has long been a focal point for the start of the St. Patrick’s Day parade. In the hours before the official start, the street bustles with excitement as colourful floats, marching bands, dancers, and performers from all over the world assemble. The atmosphere transforms into a vibrant tapestry of costumes, music, and anticipation.

From Granby Row, this explosion of Irish spirit flows southward, winding through Dublin’s iconic streets. Locals and visitors alike line the parade route, cheering on the spectacle and soaking in the festive atmosphere.

A Historical Gem

Beyond its role in the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Granby Row itself is rich in history. It was developed in the late 18th century as part of Dublin’s northward expansion and was once home to prominent figures in Irish society. The street retains much of its original Georgian charm, offering visitors a glimpse into Dublin’s elegant past.

How to Experience Granby Row

Parade Day: If you’re lucky enough to be in Dublin for St. Patrick’s Day, experiencing the parade assembly on Granby Row is an unforgettable way to kick off the celebrations. Arrive early to secure a good spot!

Explore the Area: Parnell Square, the Garden of Remembrance, and the Dublin Writers Museum are all located nearby, making it ideal for a historical walking tour.

Appreciate the Architecture: Even on a quiet day, a stroll down Granby Row offers a chance to admire the Georgian architecture and sense the history of the street.

Granby Row embodies the perfect blend of Irish tradition and modern celebration. Its role as a starting point for the St. Patrick’s Day parade makes it a unique symbol of Ireland’s vibrant culture.

IS IT A GOOD IDEA TO USE A FULL FRAME LENSE ON A CROP SENSOR BODY

March 16, 2024 by infomatique

RECENTLY I USED A SIGMA 14mm FULL FRAME LENS ON A SONY FX30 BODY

A follower asked me why was I using a full frame Sigma 14mm on a Sony FX30 camera body. She claims that she was advised not to use full frame lenses on a crop sensor body as it presents many quality issues.

Using full-frame lenses on crop sensor bodies is a common practice and it’s not inherently problematic. However, there are a few factors to consider:

Image Quality: Full-frame lenses are designed to cover a larger sensor area, so when used on a crop sensor camera, only the centre portion of the image circle is used. This can actually result in better image quality because any distortion or vignetting that occurs at the edges of the lens will not affect the image.

Field of View: A full-frame lens on a crop sensor camera will have a narrower field of view compared to when it’s used on a full-frame camera. This is due to the crop factor of the sensor. For example, a 14mm lens on a camera with a 1.5x crop factor will have an effective focal length of 21mm.

Cost and Versatility: Full-frame lenses are generally more expensive than their crop sensor counterparts. However, if you plan on upgrading to a full-frame camera in the future, investing in full-frame lenses can be a good idea as you can continue to use them on the new camera.

Weight and Size: Full-frame lenses are typically larger and heavier than lenses designed for crop sensor cameras. This might make the camera-lens combination unbalanced and harder to handle, especially for prolonged periods.

Resolution: Some people argue that full-frame lenses resolve more detail when used on crop sensor cameras. This is because the pixels on the crop sensor are effectively ‘zoomed in’ on the centre portion of the image projected by the lens. However, the difference is often negligible and may not be noticeable in real-world shooting scenarios.

In conclusion, while there are considerations to keep in mind, using full-frame lenses on crop sensor bodies does not inherently lead to quality issues. It can even offer advantages in certain situations. It ultimately depends on your specific needs and shooting style.

GOOGLE MAPS DESCRIBE THIS AS THE 1916 SITE OF THE ROTUNDA RINK

March 16, 2024 by infomatique

BUT ON THE MEMORIAL PLAQUE THE DATE IS 1913

I used a Sigma 14mm lens and unfortunately lens flare can be a problem and this was evident when I photographed this much ignored memorial.

Google Maps describes this as “1916 Site Of Rotunda Rink” but on the copper plaque the date is 1913. Of course the plaque is correct. The Irish Volunteers were indeed founded at the Rotunda Rink in 1913. This is a crucial date in Irish history, marking a pivotal moment in the nationalist movement.

The Rotunda Rink: Birthplace of the Irish Volunteers

Dublin’s Rotunda Rink holds a unique place in Irish history. The site, located within the grounds of the famous Rotunda Hospital, wasn’t merely a skating rink but a pivotal location in the lead-up to the transformative events of Ireland’s early 20th century.

In 1913, tensions were high across Ireland. The prospect of Home Rule (limited self-governance) had brought divisions to the forefront, particularly between those who supported the idea and those vehemently opposed it in the North. Eoin MacNeill, a scholar and Gaelic League leader, recognising the need for a nationalist counterbalance to the newly formed Ulster Volunteer Force, published a seminal article titled “The North Began”. It ignited a wave of support for the creation of an Irish nationalist volunteer force.

On November 25th, 1913, the Rotunda Rink, then the largest hall in Dublin, became the stage for the inaugural public meeting of the Irish Volunteers. Thousands of men, inspired by MacNeill’s call and the prospect of defending Irish interests, crowded into the rink.

The meeting was a resounding affirmation of the nationalist spirit of resistance. Speakers like Arthur Griffith, Tom Kettle, and Sean MacDermott passionately articulated the vision of a self-governing Ireland and the need for an organised force to defend those aspirations.

Legacy

The Rotunda Rink witnessed the birth of a movement that would profoundly change Irish history. The Irish Volunteers, although eventually splitting in the lead-up to World War I, played a crucial role in the Easter Rising of 1916 and the subsequent fight for Irish Independence.

The site of the Rotunda Rink, while no longer standing, retains a powerful symbolism. It serves as a reminder of a pivotal moment when the Irish people took concrete steps towards self-determination – a journey that would bring both struggle and ultimately, the birth of an independent Irish state.

Additional Notes:

The Rotunda Rink was part of the Rotunda Gardens, a pleasure garden attached to the Rotunda Hospital.
Some notable figures like Countess Markievicz and Dr. Kathleen Lynn, both associated with the Easter Rising, worked within the Rotunda Hospital complex.