With a proliferation of electric cars coming from Kia’s Irish headquarters in Ballymount, Dublin, out of the blue two months ago came a regular petrol car, the Kia K4.

In recent months Ronan Flood, M.D. of Kia in Ireland and his marketing manager Cathal Kealey have been busy introducing Irish motor writers to their range of electric cars and we have had launches for the EV5, EV4, EV2 and the PV5, their first electric van.

The Kia K4 is a mild-hybrid 1.0-lite petrol-powered five-door hatchback. The name may be a bit confusing as K4 is also the name of one of the trim levels names already used by Kia. A more powerful 1.6-litre version is expected to be on sale in Ireland by October this year. 

The K4 replaces the popular Cee’d and I get the impression that some of the staff in Kia’s Irish office would have preferred if the new car was also called a Cee’d. It would probably be easier for marketing purpose.

Kia are currently in fifth place in the Irish manufacturers sales chart and can do no wrong right now. They are holding on to their top five place behind: Toyota, Volkswagen, Skoda, and South Korean cousins Hyundai.

Obviously there is demand in the Irish market for affordable petrol cars such as the K4 as not all drivers are ready make the big switch to electric.

I drove a white version and it looked good, but of course the problem with white cars is that they get dirty quickly. It has Star Map lights Star Map Signature Lighting inspired by the EV9 and rear hidden door handles integrated into the C-pillar.

I have had a bit of trouble with my back recently, maybe sitting too long at my PC. So, every time I had to go on a journey last week I found the driver’s seat in the K4 very comfortable. The car is set fairly low and the length of the car is 4.440mm.

Inside a large touch of cream on the steering wheel really caught my eye. That cream colour is replicated on the top of the black seats, which are synthetic leather, all adding up to a very attractive look. The driver gets electric adjustment for their seat also. The interior is bright thanks the glass sunroof, but that sunroof is only available in the GT version.

Prices start at €31,500. The only ‘free’ colours for the K4 are a grey-green hue called Morning Haze and Clear White. The car is also available in: Fiery Red, Azure Blue, Interstellar Gray and Aurora Black, but those colours will cost you an extra €650.

In the back seat if you have only two passengers, they have use the arm-rest for drinks etc. Some of the boot based is taken up by the mild-hybrid battery, but there is also space underneath to carry items.

I think this new K4, which Kia hope will take over where the Kia Ceed left off, should be able to maintain Kia sales against models like the Toyota Corolla, Honda Civic and Peugeot 308 in the C-segment SUV hatchback segment.

I liked it, but then I am a paid up member of the hybrid club..

Also on the way from Kia is a face-lifted Stonic which will also be available in petrol and mild-hybrid. And Kia will soon introduce their Seltos to the Irish market. It’s also a petrol car and is Kia’s second best seller globally after the Sportage.

My personal philosophy on caring for your dog means looking after him holistically. By that I mean nurturing him physically, mentally, emotionally and socially. This begins with respecting him as a sentient being. He experiences the same emotions as we do. It’s up to us to give him direction, to develop his potential and help him live life to capacity even within the limits of reduced health or old age. If you like, it’s the lifestyle we, as humans, desire for ourselves.

Responsibility: When we bring a dog into our home, we immediately have a duty of care to look after him to the best of our ability. That means giving him the best diet we can afford that suits his needs and lifestyle. It entails exercising both his mind and body in order to help him reach his potential.

Your dog adopts you as his ‘go to’ person: the most reliable, favourite person who looks after his needs. That’s a huge responsibility and one we shouldn’t take lightly. It’s an opportunity to establish a relationship that can thrive both in good times and bad. It’s a partnership, a two-way relationship based on mutual respect bringing enormous satisfaction to both of you.

Education: This is a basic need – to identify your chosen breed and then to find out all you can about its character traits.

By this, I mean that you find a dog that suits your lifestyle. If you hate routine and physical activity, don’t invest in a dog that needs loads of exercise and mental stimulation. If you hate an established routine and training sessions, then you need to think about your choices.

Sometimes the best people to talk to are the veterinary nurses who see all breeds coming through their doors. And most will be glad to give you the benefit of their wisdom and advice.

If you’re getting your first dog, it’s probably a good idea to avoid those breeds or combinations that come with a caveat such as ‘very independent’, ‘can be difficult with other dogs’ or some such proviso. Much better to choose a dog that is known to be biddable. But, having said that, there’s always the exception to every rule! So don’t be afraid of asking for help in choosing the ‘right’ dog for you.

Socialising: When you’ve made your choice, then you’ll be embarking on a course of training which should include socialising him. That covers many aspects. Obviously, you need to help your dog to meet and be happy with other dogs and people. It may suit you to find some socialisation classes to do this where a trainer orchestrates the ‘Meet and Greet’ between other dogs.

However, you need to really know your dog. A shy dog, a confrontational one, a fearful one, even an over-exuberant, friendly one: they all need a different approach to socialisation. A trainer may be your best bet lest you make your dog’s life more difficult by overwhelming him through your own ignorance.

Playtime: This means playing with your dog; teaching him games; giving him quality time with you. It’s so important when developing the relationship between you and him. It’s also a way of incorporating training while having fun. For example, instead of simply throwing a ball for Saffron, I will ask her to sit and wait while I throw it. Then I encourage her to ‘go fetch’ it.

Or I will ask her to sit and stay while I disappear around the house and hide the ball from her. Then I call her to ‘Go find’. Not only has she shown complete self control by sitting and waiting, she then uses her brain and nose to sniff out where I’ve hidden it.

And, of course, you can teach your dog tricks. Most dogs will enjoy learning as long as you make it easy for them, and provide plenty of praise and rewards in the process.

Esteem: It’s important to appreciate your dog: his qualities, his ability to focus and learn, his value in your life. Cherish your dog for all the good things he brings to your relationship.

Caring: By caring for your dog, I mean giving him the best diet, all the veterinary care he needs, extra training, if necessary. And most of all, loving him to the end of his life. Dogs love us wholeheartedly. We need to follow their example.

Training: Every dog thrives from learning basic obedience training. It gives them boundaries and lets them know exactly what you want and expect of them. It also gives them choices. If you’ve got the training right, they will want to follow your guidance and do as you ask. If not, they may just walk away! And then you have to question what’s gone wrong. Training should be a way of life, not a chore.

As you can see, respect for your dog covers many facets.

For more than 25 years, the West Cork Animal Welfare Group (WCAWG) has been dedicated to improving the lives of animals across the region. Since its inception, the organisation has helped rehome more than 8,000 animals, assisting an average of 300 to 400 pets every year in finding loving, permanent homes. Aoibhinn O’Sullivan, Kennel Staff at WCAWG, shares valuable advice on what prospective owners should know before welcoming a rescue animal into their family.

One of the most important things for prospective adopters to understand is that bringing home a rescue pet is a process that takes time. Whether it is a cat, dog, puppy or kitten, every animal needs an opportunity to settle into its new surroundings, become familiar with its environment and build trust with the people around it. Equally, families need time to get to know their new pet, including their personality, preferences, fears and individual quirks.

Patience and understanding are essential during this transition period. A move to a new home can be daunting for any animal, regardless of whether they have come directly from a previous home or from a kennel or cattery environment. Simply allowing a new pet the space and time to adjust, without overwhelming them, can make a significant difference in helping them feel secure.

Anyone considering adoption should also carefully think about the long-term commitment involved. Dogs and cats can often live for 15 years or more, depending on the breed, and owners need to be prepared for the responsibility that comes with caring for an animal throughout its lifetime.

Life circumstances can change over the years, with children growing up, moving away to college, changes in employment or family situations, but a pet remains dependent on its owners for care and stability. It is important that everyone in the household is fully committed to welcoming a new pet and understands the responsibilities involved, from feeding and exercise to training, grooming, cleaning and veterinary care. Financial costs, including unexpected vet bills, should also be considered before making the decision to adopt.

A useful guideline often referenced in rescue circles is the 3-3-3 rule, which helps explain how long it may take for a pet to settle into a new home. The first three days are typically spent decompressing after the stress of the move. During the first three weeks, the animal begins to learn household routines, become familiar with family members and gain confidence in its new surroundings. By three months, many pets are fully settled and feel at home.

While every animal is different and these timelines can vary, the 3-3-3 rule provides realistic expectations for adopters. Some pets may settle more quickly, while others require additional time depending on their background and previous experiences. Minor challenges during this adjustment period are common and should not be viewed as setbacks.

Consistency, routine and clear boundaries play a crucial role in helping both dogs and cats settle successfully. Establishing these routines from the very beginning helps create a sense of security and predictability, allowing the animal to understand what is expected of them.

When it comes to rescue dogs in particular, it is important to remember that every dog has a unique history. Some may have experienced neglect, abandonment or difficult circumstances, while others may have come from loving homes where owners could no longer care for them. Whatever their background, each dog deserves patience and understanding as they adapt to a new chapter in their lives.

Building a relationship with a rescue dog can sometimes be challenging, particularly in the early stages, but the rewards are immense. Watching a dog gain confidence, learn to trust and become a valued member of the family is one of the most rewarding aspects of rescue adoption.

Behind every successful adoption is a significant amount of work carried out by rescue organisations such as WCAWG. The centre is run by a small team of two staff members, supported by a dedicated group of volunteers and dog walkers who give their time to care for the animals. WCAWG also works closely with Transition Year students throughout the school year, providing valuable work placement opportunities.

The day-to-day reality of animal rescue involves far more than many people realise. Alongside feeding, cleaning, grooming, exercising and providing veterinary care, staff spend time socialising animals and helping prepare them for life in a new home.

Outside the kennels, the workload continues. The team responds to dozens of calls, emails and messages every day relating to adoptions, pet surrenders, lost and found animals, feral cat colonies and general pet care advice. Managing social media, updating supporters and completing the necessary administration and paperwork are also important aspects of the organisation’s work.

While the work can be demanding, seeing animals thrive in their new homes and receiving updates from adopters makes every effort worthwhile.

For more information, to make a donation or to fill out an adoption form go to www.westcorkanimals.com

Initially found as a stray, Nell’s foster caregiver, Lauren Ingram, shares why Nell is so deserving of a good home with the right person.

This little sprite is dinky collie mix, maybe mostly Australian Kelpie. She’s so small, her ears are the largest part of her! She is gentle and loving and playful, with a teeny touch of cheekiness that adds to her overall charm.

A bit timid initially with new people, Nell is dying to bond with a person and presses into you for affection! She can be coy, in that she’ll only want to do something if it’s her idea but, as she’s very responsive to treats, this can easily be worked on with training and consistency. 

The ideal home would be reasonably calm. She would be the perfect companion for an older person. She is fine with strangers and people but can be daunted by a lot of running around or noise.

Nell would do very well in an apartment or a rural setting. She would be fine as an only dog or with a very steady male companion. She does not like it when unknown dogs rush straight up to her, she prefers polite introductions. She walks gentle on lead and is very reliable off lead. Children 12-plus for Nell; she loves to play games and shake for treats so would love dog-savvy children around. She doesn’t pay much mind to cats.

If you would like to offer Nell a home, please read the Adoption Process on the West Cork Animal Welfare website (westcorkanimals.com) and apply using the Adoption Questionnaire.

July is a busy and rewarding month in the garden, with regular maintenance ensuring that plants continue to perform at their best throughout the summer and into autumn.

Roses

Roses will repay regular attention during this period. Deadheading should be carried out frequently as flowers fade, pruning back to a leaf axil lower down the stem and always cutting to an outward-facing bud to help keep the centre of the bush open. Wild roses should not be deadheaded, as this allows the formation of attractive fruits, or hips, in autumn. Rosa moyesii ‘Geranium’ is especially attractive, producing single flowers in profusion during early summer followed by a beautiful display of hips. This variety requires plenty of space, usually 2 to 2.5 metres apart, to fully display its flowers and fruit. It also has an attractive arching habit.

Additional interest can be created around stronger shrub roses by underplanting with hardy geraniums, snowdrops, Epimedium and hardy outdoor cyclamen. Cyclamen hederifolium flowers freely from early to late autumn, while Cyclamen coum produces attractive pink and white flowers, some with marbled leaves, from late winter well into spring. Both are winter hardy and gardeners should look out for bulbs in garden centres and shops from July onwards.

Following deadheading, roses benefit from a feed formulated specifically for roses. High-nitrogen fertilisers should be avoided as they encourage soft, sappy growth that is more susceptible to pests and diseases. Blackspot, mildew and rust should be controlled by gathering and disposing of infected leaves away from the garden. Such material should not be added to the compost heap as it can spread disease spores. Roses grown in containers require regular feeding with a seaweed-based liquid fertiliser. Any sideshoots should be removed as soon as they are detected and pruned back to their point of origin. During dry, hot weather, roses should be watered regularly, taking care to avoid wetting the foliage and flowers.

Plan for holidays

Many gardeners will be preparing for summer holidays during July. Provision should be made for watering while away, either through an automated system or with the help of a family member, friend or neighbour. Vegetables and cut flowers should be picked regularly before departure, as frequent harvesting encourages continued flowering and fruiting well into autumn. Lawns should be mown before leaving, and water should be collected during wet periods in water butts or genuine wooden casks. Borders can be mulched to conserve moisture, ensuring that the soil is already moist before the mulch is applied. A leaky pipe or seep hose system may also be worth considering. Plants should receive a thorough watering before departure, with particular attention given to recently planted specimens.

Many greenhouse, conservatory and houseplants can be placed outdoors during July and August. Greenhouses require careful watering during warm spells and shading should be applied to prevent scorch. Watering is best carried out early in the morning or during the cool of the evening. Dead leaves and signs of pest damage should be removed before going away. Holidays also provide an opportunity to visit inspiring gardens, with details available through local and national newspapers, gardening magazines, tourist information offices, and gardening and tourism websites.

Pruning

July is also a suitable time for pruning. Lavender can be cut for drying, while early summer flowering shrubs such as Philadelphus and Weigela should be pruned after flowering. Wisteria should be pruned by cutting back the long whippy growths produced during summer to within five or six buds of the main stem.

Dahlias

Dahlias require robust staking and support throughout the season. Gardeners should remain vigilant for slug damage and provide regular liquid feeding to encourage strong growth and abundant flowers. Frequent deadheading will also prolong the display.

Vegetable garden

In the vegetable garden, early potatoes can be harvested. Onions should be lifted when their leaves turn yellow and begin to flop. They should be eased carefully from the soil and left on the surface for several days in warm, dry weather. Like shallots, they can also be placed on a mesh framework where sun and wind can dry them thoroughly before storage. Strong mesh wire or any suitable framework that maximises exposure to sunshine and airflow is ideal. Once fully dried, onions can be stored indoors in a cool, frost-free location, either strung together or arranged in single layers in boxes.

The planting of winter brassicas should be completed this month, with plants watered well after planting. Protective collars placed around the base of each plant help guard against cabbage root fly, while fleece provides effective protection against cabbage white butterflies and their caterpillars. Peas can continue to be sown until the end of July, while beetroot, carrots and turnips may be sown until late in the month. Autumn and winter salads should also be sown now. Spring cabbage can be sown from late July to mid-August and is particularly valuable because it provides fresh produce during a traditionally scarce period of the year. Sowing at intervals of seven to ten days helps ensure a succession of crops.

Gardeners should also take precautions against potato blight. Warnings are provided through Met Éireann weather bulletins and on their website.

Fruit garden

In the fruit garden, summer-fruiting raspberries should ripen during July and any surplus fruit can be frozen successfully. Red and white currants should be summer pruned. Fruit trees carrying heavy crops may require additional support, while ripening peaches and nectarines should be protected from birds and wasps. Well-secured horticultural fleece or mesh provides effective protection.

Lawns

Lawns will continue to require mowing once or twice each week. During very dry weather, mower blades should be raised and mowing carried out less frequently. Watering should only be undertaken when absolutely necessary. A good liquid feed can help maintain vigour, while lawns established in spring should continue to receive water. July is also a good time to prepare for sowing new lawns in September by removing perennial weeds such as docks, nettles, thistles and ground elder. Areas can be roughly levelled now, with final levelling carried out in September.

Fuchsias

Fuchsias provide colour from June until November and the hardy varieties can remain outdoors throughout winter. They respond well to hard pruning in February. Vine weevil can be troublesome but may be controlled through biological methods. Weekly feeding produces the best results, while rust and downy mildew should be monitored carefully as they can cause premature leaf drop. Gardeners should inspect both the upper and lower surfaces of leaves for signs of infection. Fuchsias are also an excellent choice for summer and autumn containers.

With regular care and timely attention, July offers abundant rewards across every part of the garden, from roses and ornamental borders to productive vegetable plots, fruit gardens and lawns.

If you’ve spent any time looking into retrofitting an older home in West Cork, particularly fitting a heat pump, you’ve likely come across the advice to insulate first. The general accepted hierarchy for retrofitting your home, and the advice I give my clients, is to first insulate, then look at the efficiency of your heating system, and finally generate your own renewable energy.

It is common sense, really: 75 percent of energy use for an average Irish home is spent on space heating, so it is best to tackle this first by insulating properly. Then, make sure that this heat is generated in the most efficient way, which would usually be some form of a heat pump. Finally, add renewable technologies like solar panels to generate your own electricity.

The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) has always preached that we should insulate first, and most of their grant rules are set up to reflect this. Before you can even think about qualifying for a heat pump grant, your home’s insulation must meet an exacting level of heat retention, measured by the Heat Loss Indicator (HLI).

Briefly, the HLI is calculated using the BER methodology: by taking the sum of your home’s heat loss through the building fabric, ventilation, and draughts, and dividing this by the floor area. The HLI is a good measure of a building’s insulation levels, though it can penalise smaller homes, something I have written about previously. A value of 2.3 W/K or lower has always been required to avail of a heat pump grant under any of the SEAI schemes. Until now.

SEAI recently launched a new initiative: the R290 High Temperature Heat Pump Pilot Scheme. Under this scheme, it will be possible to fit a heat pump and claim the normal grant funding (up to €12,500) without meeting the strict HLI criteria.

How is a high temperature heat pump different to a normal one? Standard heat pumps are incredibly efficient, but they prefer to provide a steady, low-temperature warmth over a long period, normally with a flow temperature of 35-50 degrees Celsius to underfloor heating or large radiators. Traditional oil or gas boilers, conversely, dump massive amounts of heat into small radiators at temperatures of 65 to 75 degrees Celsius. Try to put a standard heat pump into an uninsulated old farmhouse with small, traditional radiators, and you will probably be a bit chilly while your electricity bill shoots up!

Enter the R290 high temperature heat pump. By utilising R290 (propane) as a natural refrigerant, these next-generation units can absorb substantially more energy from the outside air and compress it more effectively than older synthetic refrigerants. This means they can deliver ‘boiler-like’ flow temperatures of up to 80 degrees Celsius, making them a straight swap for your old boiler.

The efficiency does suffer slightly at these higher settings though. With a flow temperature of 35-50 degrees Celsius, a standard heat pump runs at between 300 and 500 percent efficiency. When the flow temperature goes up to 65-80 degrees Celsius, that efficiency drops to around 200-300 percent – still better than a fossil fuel boiler, but higher on electricity usage.

The pilot offers the same robust level of financial support as other heat pump grants €6,500 for the heat pump itself; Up to €2,000 for central heating system upgrades (such as new radiators); A Renewable Heat Bonus of €4,000 (which I have heard referred to as the ‘boiler scrappage scheme’).

Furthermore, while you still need to publish a pre-works Building Energy Rating (BER) certificate, there is no specific minimum BER rating required to enter, nor is there a post-works BER target to hit. SEAI is actively seeking out properties built and occupied before 2011 that would have historically been rejected for standard heat pump funding.

However, there are a few caveats. The pilot is only accessible under the National Home Energy Upgrade Scheme via a One Stop Shop (OSS), so you cannot just go straight to your local independent SEAI-registered installer. Applications are being routed exclusively through these registered OSS companies.

Secondly, because this is a research focus, the pilot is strictly limited to just 100 homes across the entire country. The portal will only accept entries for a nine-month window to ensure data can be actively captured across the upcoming 2026/2027 winter heating season.

Because the heat pumps will be communicating performance data directly to SEAI via cloud-based platforms at 15-minute intervals, participating homes must have a reliable broadband connection. Homeowners must also consent to having this data gathered for a nine-month period so SEAI can evaluate how these R290 units handle actual Irish winters, tracking indoor comfort levels, running costs, and heating patterns.

So, is a high-temperature heat pump for you? My advice would still be to insulate your house properly first and then fit a heat pump that can work at maximum efficiency. However, there are cases where this pilot makes sense.

A few years back, our own oil boiler packed up. At the time, our house was not yet fully insulated (and still isn’t), so when we decided to fit a heat pump, we had to pay for it entirely out of our own pockets. This pilot would have been a lifesaver in a situation like that. Other great candidates would be homes where a full insulation upgrade is unaffordable, doesn’t make financial sense, or is impractical, as well as smaller or uniquely shaped homes that are unfairly penalised by the standard HLI rules.

As always, if you would like to get in touch about anything in this article or your own retrofit project, feel free to reach out to Ruairí at ruairi@retrofurb.ie.

For many families, buying a home is the largest financial decision they will ever make, and it remains one of life’s biggest ambitions. Yet one question continues to dominate conversations around kitchen tables, in work canteens, on bar stools, and even in the offices of mortgage providers and estate agents: when is the right time to buy, trade up, or trade down?

With supply limited in the current property market, prices rising, interest rate increases expected, and prospective buyers increasing, it is very easy to become despondent.

To make a long story short, there is no right or wrong answer to the question, ‘Should we buy now or wait for conditions to improve?’ It’s a far more complicated answer than a simple yes or no. 

Property experts generally agree there is no perfect moment to enter the market. The decision should be based on a family’s financial circumstances, housing needs, and long-term plans rather than trying to predict future prices. It depends less on market timing and more on personal readiness. Housing markets will rise and fall, interest rates will fluctuate, economic uncertainty will persist, and there will always be another speed bump in the decision-making process.

One of the most important factors is affordability. Before purchasing a home, families should assess whether they can comfortably meet mortgage repayments while maintaining their current standard of living. The Central Bank’s mortgage lending rules require buyers to meet strict borrowing criteria, helping to ensure that homeowners are not overstretched financially.

Mortgage approval should not be viewed as the only measure of affordability. Just because a lender is willing to lend a certain amount does not mean borrowing the maximum is the wisest option. Leaving room within a household budget can provide valuable flexibility if circumstances change. A larger deposit can reduce borrowing costs and improve mortgage options. Buyers who take the time to strengthen their financial position may ultimately secure more favourable terms and experience less stress after moving in.

As financial advisors, we recommend that buyers look beyond the deposit itself. Legal fees, valuation costs, survey expenses, stamp duty, and moving costs can add thousands to the overall purchase. Families should also retain a financial cushion for unexpected expenses after moving in. Owning a home often comes with costs that renters may not anticipate, from replacing the boiler to dealing with the little ones putting a football through the window.

Interest rates are another key factor to consider. Following the turbulent times after the start of the Russian-Ukrainian war, interest rates have settled down over the last two years. Now, due to geopolitics, inflation is creeping up again, and the ECB has started increasing rates. The difference between now and 2022 is that the ECB is starting from a higher base. Higher interest rates increase monthly repayments and reduce borrowing capacity.

However, waiting indefinitely for lower rates may not necessarily benefit buyers if house prices continue to increase during the same period. Also, if you are currently renting, there is a cost to staying put. For example, if your rent is €1,500 per month, that is €18,000 per year that could have gone towards your new home. You are also a year older, so you have one year less on your mortgage term, which increases your monthly payments.

Lifestyle factors are equally important in the decision-making process. A growing family may require more bedrooms, access to schools, outdoor space, or proximity to employment. The growth of remote and hybrid working also encourages some households to look beyond their current area, broadening their housing options. Property professionals often advise buyers to consider whether a house meets their needs for a minimum five to 10 year period. This can help reduce the likelihood of having to move again in a relatively short period of time, avoiding additional costs and housing uncertainty. This timeframe spreads the upfront costs over a longer period while also allowing buyers to benefit from any potential growth in property values.

Children in particular benefit from continuity, and staying in one place allows families to establish stronger connections within local communities.

Prospective buyers should research local trends and examine the Property Price Register in the area where they are purchasing. Are there any future developments planned in the area, such as new transport links, schools, or commercial projects that could influence property values over time? Spend some time in the area, by day and evening, on weekdays and weekends. Get to know the area and talk to locals. Ireland’s persistent housing shortage continues to support demand, which reduces the odds of a sudden drop or fall in house values.

Ultimately, the right time to buy a family home in Ireland is highly personal. It depends on sufficient savings, secure income, realistic and manageable borrowing levels, and confidence that the property will meet a family’s needs for years to come. Buyers who are financially stretched or uncertain about their future needs may benefit from waiting until their situation becomes clearer. There is no perfect moment to purchase; markets and economic forecasts are unpredictable. The only thing that remains constant is your personal circumstances and dreams.

In a market where supply remains limited and demand remains strong, the decision is less about finding the perfect market conditions, when prices are lowest or interest rates are most attractive. It is about whether the purchase supports a family’s financial wellbeing, lifestyle goals, and long-term security. Do you see yourself growing old in this house? While you’re buying a house, can you make it into the home you want it to be? You need the house to work for you, not you working for the house.

If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact us on 023 881 0001.

I have in the past often complained about spending time sitting at an electric car charging point waiting for the car I was driving to charge. But at the end of March while drivers of petrol and diesel cars were queuing for fuel, I simply drove to the Tesla’s Irish headquarters in Sandyford and charged the new Tesla model Y

When Tesla first came to Ireland in 2017 they made a really attractive offer to attract new customers and anybody who bought a Tesla in the early part of 2017 got free charging for life at a Tesla Supercharger location. 

The good news for Tesla drivers is that a new Supercharger site is due to open very soon in Blanchardstown and that will be followed by two more in Rathfarnham and one near Dublin Airport. By the end of the year Tesla say they will have 18 Supercharger sites in The Republic at locations in: Letterkenny, Limerick, Longford, Mallow, Sligo and Wicklow.

That’s a long introduction to the updated version of the Tesla Y. In recent years Tesla has caught the public’s imagination and it was debateable whether Elon Musk’s connections to Donald Trump was a help or a hindrance. Elon has moved on from the White House and now it looks like Tesla are focussing on reducing the price of their cars.

As with all new revamps the second version of the Tesla Y is bigger, better and more comfortable to drive than the previous version. Tesla’s engineers paid a lot of attention to the suspension and tyres, which were Hankook in this instance. My test car came in Diamond Black, a colour the late Henry Ford would have liked, but I think there are probably better colours to showcase this new car.

The Tesla badge is dropped and there are very slight exterior changes. You would probably need to be wearing you Tesla Anorak to spot them all.

Inside there is plenty of room for five well-built adults. You still that minimalist, clean look and everything is controlled from the 16-inch screen that dominates the dash. From that screen you can perform a multitude of tasks like moving your seat, opening the boot, the frunk and the glove compartment. There are only two slave controls on the steering wheel. The seats are grey, but you get a white roof-lining, which certainly brightens the décor.

The boot is massive, officially 835 litres of space, and there is more discreet space underneath for the charge cables or you could store the cables in the Frunk. You can get even luggage space by leaving down the back seat and that can be done by pressing a button in the boot. You don’t get a key fob to start the car, only a Tesla card and the safest place to keep that card is attached to the lanyard provided by Tesla.

With a full charge you should get close to 500km and you can get from zero to 100km/h in just four seconds. I liked the car, but wasn’t made about the colour. Prices for the Rear-Wheel Drive start at €42,990, while the Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive model starts at €46,990.

SIMI figures showed that 3,851 new electric were registered in the month of March, which was 52.1 per cent higher than the 2,531 registrations in March 2025.  I wonder will the events at the end of March where fuel distribution around the country was seriously disrupted, encourage more Irish people to switch to electric cars?

by John Hosford

June marks one of the busiest and most rewarding periods in the gardening calendar. With the risk to tender plants now largely passed, it is the ideal time to move many flowers and vegetables outdoors and make the most of the growing season ahead. Careful planting, feeding and regular maintenance this month will help ensure strong growth, colourful displays and productive harvests throughout summer.

Vegetable garden

June is the time to plant out tender vegetables. Basil, parsley and lettuce can all now be moved outdoors, while courgettes, pumpkins, squashes, vegetable marrows, outdoor cucumbers and melons should be planted into rich soil that has been generously improved with well-rotted farmyard or stable manure. Before planting, work in a good organic fertiliser and water thoroughly once plants are in position.

Slug and snail damage can become a problem at this stage, so close observation is important. Weathered wood ashes placed around vulnerable plants may help discourage attack. These larger vegetable crops should generally be spaced one metre apart to allow for healthy development.

Applying straw as a mulch around developing plants offers several benefits. It suppresses weeds, reduces moisture loss and prevents soil splashing onto fruit as it matures.

Runner beans, French beans and climbing French beans that were started indoors can now be transplanted into their final growing positions. Outdoor tomatoes can also be planted out and perform best in a sunny, sheltered location. Tumbling tomato varieties are especially suitable for hanging baskets, window boxes and patio containers as they mature quickly and produce flavour-packed crops. Choosing blight-resistant varieties is recommended.

June is also an excellent month for direct sowing outdoors. Beetroot, carrots, Chinese cabbage, Florence fennel, lettuce, pak choi, peas, spinach and spring onions can all be sown now. Vegetable plants started indoors during April and May should also be planted out.

Early potatoes can begin to be harvested this month. Gardeners should remain alert for signs of blight and monitor weather updates from MET Éireann.

Plants for summer baskets and containers

Summer baskets and containers provide long-lasting colour and there is an extensive selection of flowering and foliage plants available to create displays that remain attractive throughout the season.

Trailing foliage plants such as Dichondra ‘Silver Falls’, Helichrysum and ivies provide texture and contrast when combined with flowering plants. Begonias continue to be a dependable choice thanks to their weather resistance, extensive colour range and ability to flower into late autumn.

Members of the daisy family also perform exceptionally well in containers. Argyranthemum varieties, available in white, yellow and pink, work particularly well as central feature plants and combine effectively with Surfinias, Petunias, Sanvitalia and Osteospermum.

Lobelia remains a summer classic and is available in shades of blue, white, lavender and red in both trailing and bush forms. Impatiens, or busy lizzies, are another excellent option for shaded areas, bringing bright colour that continues late into autumn.

Pelargoniums, commonly known as geraniums, thrive in sunny positions. Ivy-leaf varieties create trailing and cascading displays and are available in pink, red, white and lavender shades. Zonal pelargoniums make strong centrepieces for patio containers and provide reliable long-lasting colour. To keep them performing well, deadhead regularly, remove mouldy leaves and avoid wetting foliage and blooms to reduce the risk of fungal problems.

Fuchsias are highly rewarding container plants and come in both bush and trailing forms with single or double flowers. With proper care they can continue flowering until November. Gardeners should remain watchful for vine weevil and treat if necessary. They are particularly suitable for shaded and north-facing locations.

Edible planting can also be incorporated into containers. Tumbling tomatoes, strawberries and herbs work well in hanging baskets, while larger patio containers can accommodate colourful vegetables including red cabbage, Kale Black Tuscany, dwarf curled kale and Savoy cabbage.

Sweet peas, climbing runner beans and climbing French beans can all be successfully grown in large containers when supported with a wigwam structure.

Successful baskets and containers depend on consistent care. Water regularly and avoid allowing compost to dry out. Feed weekly from June through October using a seaweed-based liquid feed. Replace damaged or rusted basket chains, use fresh compost enriched with slow-release fertiliser and consider installing a watering system if extended absences are planned.

Fruit garden

Fruit garden maintenance becomes important in June. Peaches, plums and nectarines should be pruned during this period to encourage healthy growth and productive cropping.

Rhubarb can continue to be harvested until the end of the month. Plum trees carrying heavy crops may require thinning early in June to reduce stress on branches. Supporting heavily laden branches will also help prevent breakage.

Under cover

Greenhouse and protected growing areas require close attention as temperatures rise. Damp down regularly in warm weather and maintain a consistent schedule of watering and feeding.

Remove tomato sideshoots promptly and, if they have become strong, cut them cleanly using disinfected secateurs. Glasshouses may need shading through paint-on products or blinds to reduce excessive heat.

Young plants and seedlings should be potted on as required and grape vines must be checked regularly to ensure adequate watering.

Requiring attention this month

Regular hoeing of weeds remains one of the most effective maintenance tasks and is best carried out early in the day when sunshine or drying conditions are expected.

Tall perennials should be staked before they become vulnerable to wind damage.

Roses benefit from a final summer feed at this time. Continue preventative care against blackspot, mildew and rust, and remove suckers promptly as they appear.

With attentive watering, feeding and seasonal maintenance, June offers the opportunity to establish healthy gardens that will continue delivering colour and harvests well into the months ahead.

That is one of the biggest financial issues quietly sitting in the background for so many Irish people right now. We are healthier, we are working longer, and retirement is no longer a short chapter at the end of life. Many people could spend 20, 25, or even 30 years in retirement, yet surprisingly few have sat down and worked out what that might actually cost.

I think people are often shocked when they realise how little the State pension alone provides. At the moment, the full contributory State pension is just over €277 per week. While that absolutely helps, for most people it is not enough on its own to maintain the lifestyle they are used to, especially when you factor in rising bills, inflation, healthcare costs, and simply the cost of living in Ireland now.

Between mortgages, childcare, school costs and the general cost of life in Ireland, pensions often end up at the bottom of the list. A lot of people still think retirement planning is something you start thinking about ‘later’. Later when the kids are older. Later when the mortgage eases. Later when work calms down. But the reality is that later comes quickly, and the difference between starting a pension at 35 versus 45 can potentially result in a significantly larger pension pot by retirement age.

I regularly meet people in their fifties who genuinely thought they were ‘grand’ until they actually sat down and looked at the numbers. Most are not reckless with money. They simply never had anyone explain retirement planning in a way that felt realistic or achievable.

Compound growth sounds like financial jargon, but it is actually quite simple. It means that your money starts earning money too. If you invest €100 and it grows by five per cent, you now have €105. The following year, you are earning growth on €105 rather than the original €100. Over years and decades, that snowball effect becomes incredibly powerful. That is why starting earlier, even with smaller amounts, can often leave somebody in a much stronger position than someone trying to catch up later with larger contributions.

The same applies in reverse with inflation. Money sitting in a current account might feel safe, but if it is not growing, inflation is quietly eating away at it in the background. €100,000 sitting in cash today simply will not buy the same lifestyle in twenty years’ time if the cost of living continues to rise.

When clients come in to us for a financial review, we usually start at the finish line and work backwards. Instead of asking people what they think they can afford to put into a pension now, we ask what kind of lifestyle they want later on. A common rule of thumb is aiming for a retirement income of roughly 70 to 75 percent of your current salary in order to maintain a similar standard of living.

For example only, and not financial advice, if a couple currently earns a combined salary of €100,000, we may aim for a retirement income of around €75,000 between them. One way of estimating the pension fund required is multiplying that figure by approximately 24, which would suggest a target fund in the region of €1.8 million. Suddenly retirement stops feeling vague and becomes something much more tangible and real.

From there, we work backwards. We factor in what State pension entitlements may look like, any existing work pensions, old pensions from previous jobs, savings, investments, and even property assets. Many people have pensions scattered across old employments and have no idea what they contain or how they are performing. Part of our role is helping clients find those pensions, review them, and understand whether they still suit their goals and timelines. Many people in Ireland are asset rich on paper but pension poor in reality, particularly those who may own property but have not built enough retirement income outside of it.

Retirement planning is rarely just one pension pot. It is more like a four pillar structure. You may have your State pension, private pensions, savings and investments, and property or other assets all contributing towards your retirement lifestyle. For some people, there may also be future inheritance or business assets involved. The key is making sure those pieces are actually working together rather than sitting in isolation.

That does not always mean starting from scratch. Sometimes it is about amending what is already there. In some cases, we may recommend increasing pension contributions. In others, it might involve reviewing investment strategy or setting up additional savings and investment plans alongside pension contributions to improve flexibility later on.

What surprises many people is how tax efficient pensions can actually be in Ireland. If you are paying tax at 40 percent, a €1,000 pension contribution may effectively only cost you around €600 after tax relief. For business owners and self-employed individuals, pensions can also become a very valuable long-term planning tool. Many business owners spend years reinvesting back into the business while neglecting their own retirement planning in the process. Pension contributions can offer significant tax advantages while also building personal financial security outside of the business itself.

One of the biggest issues I see is people being either too cautious or too overwhelmed to start. Some are afraid to invest because they think it means taking huge risks. Others have pensions they have not reviewed in years and genuinely have no idea what they are invested in. Many people are sitting in default funds that may not actually suit their stage of life or retirement goals.

This is where advice becomes important, because there is no one size fits all approach. Someone in their thirties may be able to take a very different level of investment risk compared to somebody planning to retire in five years’ time. For clients approaching retirement, we are often looking more closely at structure and accessibility. How much should stay in cash? How much should remain invested? What level of monthly income will realistically be needed? Many people are surprised to learn that pensions can often be accessed from age 50 once they have left that employment, which makes timing and planning incredibly important.

The reality is that retirement is no longer something that ‘just works itself out’. Defined benefit pensions are far less common, people are living longer, and the cost of living continues to rise. Hoping things will somehow fall into place is not a strategy.

The good news is that you do not need to fix everything overnight. A pension review, increasing contributions slightly, understanding what you currently have, or even just having the conversation is a huge step forward. Small changes made consistently over time can completely change outcomes later on.

Because at the end of the day, retirement planning is not really about numbers on a page. It is about freedom. Freedom to slow down when you want to, not because you are forced to. Freedom to enjoy your life without financial panic. The ability to make choices on your own terms.

And ultimately, that is the pension gap nobody talks about. It is not just the gap in money. It is the gap between the future people hope for and the plan they currently have in place to support it.

Halpin Wealth Management offers free consultations. Visit www.hwm.ie  or email info@hwm.ie to learn more.

by Liz Mahony

The first couple of lines from Rudyard Kipling’s poem, ‘If’, came to mind the other day: “If you can keep your head when all about you are losing theirs!..”

One of my neighbour’s hens had forced her way through the metal confines of her run. She was happily plucking away at the grass and earth in the garden area, totally oblivious to my consternation and Saffron’s interest!

Receiving no reply from my text to said neighbour, I realised the situation was solely in my hands. I approached the problem in totally the wrong way forgetting about my professional dog training skills. Thus I tried to hem her in assuming she would return back into the run through her escape route. But, she had other ideas! She wasn’t going to give up her new-found freedom that easily, proceeding to run hither and thither like the proverbial ‘headless chicken’. Please forgive the deliberate pun!

My actions panicked her further, so she kept trying to force her way back into the run by sticking her head into various narrow spaces in the metal fence, through which the latter part of her body had no hope of following! Then Saffron decided I needed her help and got rather excited. Having twice despatched her offers of assistance with a ‘flea in her ear’, I took a deep breath, slowing down to take stock of what, if anything, I had currently achieved! The first realisation was that my efforts so far had only exaggerated the circumstances. Gathering my wits, I went off to get a cup of hen food and opened the main gate to the run after grabbing a towel from the kitchen.

The towel was a last resort. I didn’t fancy handling her, as I was certain to get pecked or clawed in the ensuing debacle. If the worst came to the worst, I might have to throw the towel over her and then secure her with a rugby tackle! Fortunately, it didn’t come to that! Instead I began to review the situation in a more grounded manner.

Firstly, I chucked some hen food into the run to keep the other hens focused on food rather than also escaping through the open gate to join their wayward companion in her escapade. That worked except the lady on the outside decided she didn’t want to miss that food, so she once more vainly attempted to force her way back through the metal bars instead of through the open hole that I’d intentionally aligned with the food inside. I’d imagined she might be clever enough to remember the hole and go back through it again. What a vain hope!

After another deep breath, I backed away from her even further to encourage her to come nearer to the open gate and out of the paddock to which she kept seeking refuge from me. The danger with the paddock was that it had two equine inhabitants who would either have crushed her under their hooves or chased her around the field and panicked her even further. But, luckily, they were oblivious to the excitement.

Steadying my nerves, I slowly advanced on her from the opposite direction to the open gate and began shaking the container with the remaining food. At first, that

made her run the other side of the open gate between it and the fencing and more vain attempts to squeeze through more narrow, unrelenting gaps! Time for me to back away again.

Taking yet more deep breaths, I slowly approached her again. Each time she ran the wrong side of the gate until finally she strutted inside, as though nothing untoward had happened, rejoining her companions while I slammed the gate shut. Heaving a sigh of relief I rewarded them all with the remains of the feed and blocked up the hole in the fence.

And what has the above got to do with dog training, I hear you ask? In a word: Everything! Just bear with me for a little longer. At the beginning of this episode, I, too, was running around like that proverbial ‘headless chicken’, and getting nowhere. I couldn’t even think of a solution, let alone do anything constructive. At the beginning, I didn’t even contemplate that my training skills might possibly apply across a spectrum of animals.

However once I took myself in hand, employed deep breaths, my brain started working again, and a plan unfolded effortlessly. The panicked hen no longer sensed my own trepidation so she calmed down too which then allowed a greater chance for my plan to work.

The moral of my story is that if we, ourselves, lack self control when dealing with our own pets, how can we expect our dogs to show restraint since they copy everything we do?

by John Hosford

As we move into May, we hope the days are finally warming up, but gardeners must remain vigilant. Beware of cold nights early in the month. While those living near the coast may have seen the last of the frosts, venturing just five or eight miles inland can bring you into contact with late seasonal freezes. Always keep a watchful eye on the forecast and keep frost protection fleece, cloches, or cold frames ready to protect your tender plants.

Watering

Preparation for drier days is essential this month. Install taps in strategic locations, particularly in or adjacent to your greenhouse, cloches, and frames, as well as near hanging baskets, window boxes, and patio containers. For those with numerous containers or recent plantings, an automated watering system with a time clock is a worthwhile investment, especially if you plan to be away for prolonged periods.

To manage resources effectively, conserve and store water in water butts. Mulching beds and borders with bark mulch or well-composted farmyard or stable manure will further conserve moisture and suppress weeds. If you cannot source manure locally, consider ‘Gee-up’, made in Blarney, Co. Cork. When sourcing any manure, ensure it is free from weed seeds or roots.

Vegetables

May is a busy month for both indoor and outdoor sowing. If you have not yet started courgettes, pumpkins, squashes, vegetable marrows, sweet corn, runner beans, or French beans, these may be sown indoors early this month. Sowing seeds individually in 9-12cm biodegradable pots helps cut down on waste and minimises transplanting shock. These can be planted out at the end of the month or in early June once they have been thoroughly hardened-off.

Continue successional sowing of beetroot, cabbage, carrots, salad onions, lettuce, radishes, swedes, and turnips outdoors, sowing thinly in well-prepared soil. Celery can be planted out towards the end of the month, while cauliflower and broccoli should be sown now for a spring 2027 harvest.

Brussels sprouts can be moved into their final cropping quarters now, spaced 90cm apart with 90cm between rows. As they occupy space for a long period, you can optimise the ground by intercropping with quick-maturing crops like lettuce, radishes, or kohl rabi. Protect sprouts against cabbage root fly by placing cabbage collars around the neck of the plants immediately after planting. In autumn, ensure they are supported with robust stakes to prevent wind rock, and use Enviromesh to deter caterpillars and pigeons.

Fruit

To ensure a clean harvest, tuck straw under strawberries to protect the fruits from rotting and to prevent soil splashing onto them. Newly planted fruit trees and bushes require consistent watering during dry spells. Additionally, currants, gooseberries, raspberries, and loganberries will benefit greatly from an application of well-rotted farmyard manure, garden compost, or spent mushroom compost.

Under Cover

Now is the time to plant up hanging baskets and containers, keeping them indoors and frost-free until the end of the month. Gradually acclimatise them to the outdoors as they establish. Bedding plants, geraniums, and fuchsias should also be hardened off in preparation for summer displays.

Tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and aubergines are ready for larger pots or grow bags. Opt for the deepest grow bags available, as shallow versions dry out too quickly. Ensure plants are not crowded, as proper spacing reduces the risk of disease, mould, and pests. Cordon tomatoes require regular tying and side-shooting; snap off small shoots with your thumb and forefinger, or use a sharp, disinfected knife for larger ones to prevent the spread of viral diseases.

Glasshouse management is crucial as temperatures rise. Apply shading using a wash or fit roller blinds to the exterior. Alternatively, fine mesh netting can be used on sunny days. Morning watering and ‘damping down’ paths will increase humidity and discourage red spider mites. Weekly feeding with an organic seaweed-based fertiliser is recommended for all indoor and container plants. For a unique touch, plant ‘Tumbling Tom’ tomatoes or cascading herbs in hanging baskets.

Keep a sharp lookout for pests such as whitefly, greenfly, vine weevil, and lily beetles. Lily beetles are easily identified by their bright red colour and should be removed by hand to prevent damage to leaves and flowers. Biological controls for various pests can be sourced from Mr. Middleton in Dublin or Fruit Hill Farm in Bantry.

Lawns

Mow established lawns regularly and apply feed if you have not already done so. Any remaining tasks for sowing new lawns should be completed early this month to allow for establishment before the peak heat of summer.

Hardy Annuals

Sow hardy annuals in informal drifts for a natural look. In one-sided borders, position taller varieties at the back, tapering down to the front; for island beds, place the tallest plants in the centre. Avoid making the soil too rich, as this can encourage foliage at the expense of flowers.

Excellent varieties for May sowing include Eschscholzia (Californian poppy), Limnanthes (Scrambled Eggs), Nigella, Calendula, and Nasturtiums. Echium ‘Blue Bedder’ is particularly attractive to bees, while others like Orlaya, Ammi, and Poppy “Ladybird” provide wonderful texture and colour.

Chelsea Flower Show

A true highlight of the gardening calendar, the Chelsea Flower Show takes place this year from May 19-23 in the grounds of The Royal Hospital, Chelsea. For those unable to attend in person, the BBC provides extensive coverage, offering a wonderful insight into the world-class show gardens and floral displays.

I have driven several electric cars in recent years and only twice have I been able to reach the manufacturer’s claimed range when giving the battery a full charge. It happened with Hyundai’s Ioniq 9 last year and last week the revised Xpeng G6 also lived up to its claimed range of 470km when fully charged.

We have all heard jokes about people putting on weight while waiting for their E.V. to charge. It’s tempting to have a tea or coffee and a fancy cake if you have to stop at a roadside filling station to charge your electric car. But last week I did a few short walks while waiting for my Xpeng to charge at Supervalu in Walkinstown. So instead of putting on weight while waiting to charge, you can also lose weight.

I was very impressed with the Xpeng, which along with BYD and Smart are the Chinese brands currently being imported by the MDL group.

It’s massive car and my daughter, who is my regular travelling companion, kept commenting on how spacious the interior was. She is very colour conscious and was impressed with the lovely touches of light grey on the seats and dash area. A full length sunroof adds to the bright interior feel. Overall the interior has a minimalistic and clean look to it.

Plenty of room in the back seat for three well-built adults and with a flat floor no complaints from the person sitting in the middle. The boot is a decent size at 571 litres, rising to 1,374 litres with the rear seats folded down.

Most of the controls are incorporated into the massive 15.6-inch screen on the dash. From that screen you can find everything you need to know about driving the car, how to open the bonnet, the boot, the electric charge point and the glove box.

I read recently that that in Europe, at least, there are plans to bring back a few old style buttons for air conditioning and radio. That would definitely be a sensible idea as it’s very dangerous for the driver to take his/her eyes off for the road for just a few seconds to find something on that huge screen. I think most of us have trained our bodies to find buttons on the dash without fumbling to find them.

The Xpeng is similar in looks to a few other electric cars currently available, most notably Tesla’s Model Y, some of Kia’s new EV range and the Skoda Enyaq. My test car came in Artic White, which is similar to a shade of white that Tesla use. 

As usual you get two vanity mirror in the front for driver and front seat passenger. But I noticed that in order to see the vanity mirrors you need to fold down a piece of material that covers the mirrors. 

Prices for the RWD Standard Range version that I drove have been held at €42,000, as has the price of the long-range version at €49,440. The range in the latter version is 525km. Naturally like all electric cars, it takes off like a greyhound and the max speed is 202km, if it’s penalty points you are after!

I really enjoyed my time in the Xpeng and it charges really fast, so fast you can only take a short walk.

 I got a lot of people asking me about the name and how is it’s pronounced. We don’t have many words in the English language starting with ‘X’ apart from X-Ray and Xylophone.The name Xpeng reminded me of an old television ad in the eighties promoting a product for cows called Cheno Unction. The manufacturer’s advertising line was: ‘‘It’s a quare name, but great stuff.’’