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Check FAQAbout Amy
I am a freelance journalist from Dublin, currently based in Wexford. I work as a freelance journalist and have over six years of experience working for both print and online media outlets. At present, my writing predominantly focuses on scientific issues, travel and general interest features but I have experience in many more areas. I have written articles for publications such as Science Magazine, The Scientist, Australian Geographic, The Guardian UK and the Irish Times. Prior to becoming a freelance journalist, I worked as a full-time journalist for People Newpapers in Wexford – part of the Independent News and Media group. My role required me to conduct interviews and produce news and feature articles on a wide range of subjects. I left this position to pursue a passion for travel and concentrate on my freelance work. In the past, I also completed internships with Irish Tatler Magazine, wrote for a trade magazine named Irish Property Guides and served as Arts and Culture Editor of a student newspaper. I hold a BA in Journalism and French from Dublin Institute of Technology and received a First Class Honours degree. On graduating, I was awarded the Sunday World Cup for achieving the highest final year grade in my year group. My final year dissertation examined scientific communication in the Irish print media. During my studies, I was one of two students chosen to undertake a semester abroad at l’Institut Pratique du Journalisme in Paris where I participated in a masters in journalism, entirely through the French language. I pride myself on my self-motivation and ability to work on my own initiative. In saying this, I also enjoy working as part of a team and like to share and develop ideas with other people. Having studied journalism, exceptional communication skills are also something that stands me apart from others. I like to see myself as an enthusiastic person who is always striving to acquire new skills and build upon my experience.
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Portfolio
Three-Vehicle Crash sends one to hospital
A three-vehicle accident on Alabama Highway 10 involving an 18-wheeler, a passenger vehicle, and a motorcycle resulted in one person being hospitalized with serious injuries. The incident caused significant traffic delays as emergency crews responded and cleared the scene. Sheriff Danny Bond emphasized the importance of cautious driving, while local resident Marcus Anderson described the chaotic aftermath and his wife's efforts to assist the injured motorcyclist.
Nesting Season 101 – Hedge
Birds in Ireland are under pressure from habitat loss, predation, disturbance, and climate change. During nesting season, birds and their young are especially vulnerable. The Wildlife Act prohibits hedge-cutting and vegetation burning from March 1st to August 31st to protect nesting sites. Hedges are crucial for nesting and provide food, shelter, and carbon sequestration, aiding in climate change mitigation. The decline in bird populations is linked to habitat loss, emphasizing the importance of preserving hedges during nesting season. The article encourages reporting illegal cutting and burning to the Gardaí and NPWS. Enforcement of wildlife laws has improved, with a 39% increase in prosecution cases in 2023. The article also highlights the need for a cautious approach to hedgerow management due to early and late nesting birds, advocating for extending the period beyond the current legal restrictions.
A Guide to Construction Defects
Defects in construction and engineering projects can lead to significant disputes, particularly regarding the definition of defects, the contractor's obligation to rectify them, and the distinction between patent and latent defects. Construction contracts often include a defects liability period, allowing contractors to fix issues within a specified timeframe. However, contractors do not have an inherent right to return to the site unless explicitly stated in the contract. Latent defects, which may not become apparent until years after project completion, pose additional challenges. Legal recourse for defects can include claims for breach of contract, collateral warranty, negligence, and under the Defective Premises Act 1972, with extended limitation periods introduced by the Building Safety Act 2022. Properly defining practical completion in contracts is crucial to avoid disputes.
The Holy Season of Lent
The Lenten season is a time for Christians to engage in prayer, almsgiving, and fasting, aiming for spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with God. Rev. Dunford Cole encourages believers to use this period for renewal and to adopt holy habits, preparing for the celebration of Easter and the Resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Sing to the Lord a new song
Kingsley Davidson, an Australian father and bookkeeper, revitalized his passion for songwriting to teach children about theology through music. After a long hiatus due to discouragement from a church elder, Davidson moved to Forrest, Victoria, and began writing songs again, inspired by his new church community. His work includes an album titled 'Taste the New Testament,' and he continues to write songs to help children understand complex religious concepts. Davidson's efforts are positively received by both children and parents, and he now coordinates Kids’ Talks at his church.
Nature Restoration Law one step closer to reality but loopholes could undermine legislation
The Nature Restoration Law has moved closer to implementation following trilogue discussions between the European Parliament, European Commission, and Council of Europe. While the law has emerged weaker than initially proposed, it includes targets for ecosystem restoration and pollinator diversity. BirdWatch Ireland supports the law but is concerned about exemptions and the shift from outcome-based to efforts-based targets. The provisional agreement will be presented to the European Parliament's Environment Committee for voting, with final adoption pending approval from Member States.
The Eskimo Curlew Hasn’t Been Seen in 55 Years. Is It Time to Declare It Extinct?
The Eskimo Curlew, once a common shorebird in North America, has not been seen since 1963 and is considered critically endangered, possibly extinct. Factors contributing to its decline include extensive hunting in the 1800s and habitat loss due to agricultural expansion. Despite no confirmed sightings for decades, the bird's status remains uncertain, with ongoing assessments by conservation organizations. The plight of the Eskimo Curlew highlights broader issues facing other curlew species and migratory birds due to habitat degradation and climate change. Conservationists hope that raising public awareness can help protect other species from a similar fate.
Financial incentives often fail to reconcile agricultural productivity and pro-conservation behavior
Experimental findings indicate that financial incentives for pro-conservation actions generally encourage conservation practices but often reduce agricultural production. The study compares different game scenarios to analyze the tension between agricultural productivity and conservation efforts. It finds that direct payments for conservation do not significantly improve joint environment-production outcomes, except in specific cases like NonCropShare. The research highlights the importance of considering both people and the environment in designing conservation programs, suggesting that joint incentives calibrated to both conservation and production outcomes could drive innovation and sustainable practices. The study also emphasizes the role of education, gender diversity, and community trust in achieving better conservation and production outcomes.
Is It Okay to Remove Cowbird Eggs From Host Nests?
Brown-headed Cowbirds, known for their brood parasitism, lay eggs in other birds' nests, leading to debates on whether their eggs should be removed. Experts advise against interference, citing legal protections under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and potential negative consequences, such as nest desertion and retaliatory behavior by cowbird parents. While cowbird control is sometimes permitted to protect endangered species, it should be coupled with habitat restoration. The article emphasizes understanding and respecting natural processes, despite their seemingly harsh aspects.
BirdWatch Ireland welcomes An Bord Pleanála decision on Boyne Greenway proposal
BirdWatch Ireland supports An Bord Pleanála's decision to refuse permission for a new section of the Boyne Greenway, citing concerns over the potential adverse effects on protected bird species and habitats. The refusal aligns with BirdWatch Ireland's long-standing objections based on the threat to bird life in the Boyne Estuary SPA. The organization highlights the need for strategic guidance on greenway proposals to balance biodiversity, climate, and local needs, emphasizing that environmental conservation should not be compromised for infrastructure development.
Europe’s Efforts to 'Restore Nature' Hit a Snag
The European Union's Nature Restoration Law, a key component of Ursula Von der Leyen's Green Deal, has faced significant challenges and amendments, leading to a weakened version of the original proposal. The law aims to restore degraded ecosystems and increase urban green spaces but has encountered opposition from agricultural sectors due to concerns over funding and land use. Despite a narrow passage in the European Parliament, the law's future depends on upcoming trilogue negotiations. Environmental organizations have rallied in support, forming the #RestoreNature Coalition to advocate for stronger measures. The debate highlights the tension between environmental goals and agricultural interests.
The 15 Best Things to Do in Lookout Mountain GA/TN
Lookout Mountain, straddling the border between Georgia and Tennessee, offers a variety of attractions and activities for tourists. Key highlights include the iconic Rock City Gardens, the underground Ruby Falls, and the historic Lookout Mountain Incline Railway. Visitors can also explore the Battles for Chattanooga Museum, hike various trails, and enjoy adrenaline-pumping activities like ziplining at High Point Zip Adventure and hang-gliding at Lookout Mountain Flight Park. The area is rich in history, with significant Civil War sites and the Chickamauga and Chattanooga National Military Park. Nature enthusiasts can visit the Lula Lake Land Trust and the Reflection Riding Arboretum & Nature Preserve. For a unique perspective, Chattanooga Helicopters offers aerial tours of the region.
10 Best Apps for Hikers and Backpackers
The article reviews the top 10 hiking apps for 2022, highlighting their features, usability, and benefits for hikers and backpackers. Apps like AllTrails, FarOut, Gaia GPS, and OnX Backcountry are praised for their comprehensive trail information, offline capabilities, and user-friendly interfaces. The National Park Service app and Blue Ridge Parkway Travel Planner are noted for their updated information and accessibility features. iNaturalist is recognized for its educational value, while iOverlander is appreciated for its essential travel information. RunKeeper is valued for its tracking capabilities and music integration.
The terrible toll of bird collisions with modern buildings
Modern buildings with extensive glass windows are causing significant harm to bird populations, with millions of bird deaths annually in North America due to collisions. Organizations like Fatal Light Awareness Program (FLAP) Canada and the American Bird Conservancy are leading efforts to address this issue through research, public awareness, and legislative changes. Solutions include making windows visible to birds using markers and other retrofitting options. The problem is particularly acute for migratory species and is exacerbated by artificial lighting at night. Public perception and legislative changes, especially in Toronto, have been crucial in mitigating these collisions.
The battle to save Ireland’s birds
Ireland's bird populations are under threat, with many species on the red list due to factors like agricultural intensification, climate change, and habitat loss. BirdWatch Ireland, supported by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, is conducting surveys to monitor these populations. While some species like the roseate tern have shown recovery due to targeted conservation efforts, others like the curlew face potential extinction. Mitigation measures, such as those being developed with Transport Infrastructure Ireland, aim to reduce threats like road mortality for barn owls. Overall, a multipronged approach is needed to address the complex challenges facing Ireland's birds.
A social club? Inside the world of coursing
The article delves into the world of hare coursing in Ireland, highlighting its cultural significance and the strong family ties among participants. It discusses the legal framework, the role of the Irish Coursing Club, and the conservation efforts associated with the sport. The piece also addresses the controversy surrounding hare coursing, with animal welfare organizations and political figures advocating for a ban due to concerns about cruelty. Despite the tradition and social aspects cherished by supporters, the debate remains polarized, with little prospect of finding common ground.
What lies beneath: Protected habitats under pressure
Ireland's protected habitats are under significant pressure, with 81% of protected land experiencing intense human strain. Key factors include urbanization, agriculture, and infrastructure development. Despite stringent legislative frameworks like the EU Habitats and Birds Directives, conservation efforts are hampered by insufficient resources and conflicting governmental plans. Experts emphasize the need for effective agri-environment schemes, sustainable farming practices, and increased public engagement in nature conservation. Positive initiatives such as the BurrenLIFE and AranLIFE projects, as well as local conservation efforts like the BRIDE project, demonstrate potential pathways for habitat restoration and protection.
The clock is ticking to save the curlew
Ireland's breeding curlew population has plummeted by 96% since the 1980s, prompting conservation efforts such as BirdWatch Ireland's 'Cry of the Curlew' campaign and the establishment of the Curlew Task Force by Minister Heather Humphreys in 2017. The National Parks and Wildlife Service's Curlew Conservation Programme focuses on habitat improvement and protection from predation. Researchers from UCD are evaluating the programme's effectiveness, aiming for a sustainable growth benchmark of 0.5 chicks per pair. Criticism has been directed at the government for delayed action and contradictory policies, particularly regarding the Heritage Bill. The inaugural World Curlew Day on April 21st aims to raise international awareness and community involvement in curlew conservation.
The clock is ticking to save the curlew
The curlew, an iconic bird in Irish culture, faces a severe decline in its breeding population, dropping by 96% since the 1980s. Efforts to save the curlew include the establishment of the Curlew Task Force and the Curlew Conservation Programme, focusing on habitat protection and community involvement. Despite these initiatives, experts criticize the government for delayed action and contradictory policies. World Curlew Day, initiated to raise awareness, has gained international traction. The article underscores the urgent need for comprehensive conservation measures to prevent the curlew's extinction in Ireland.
Bringing AI To The Masses
AI Saturdays, or AI6, is a non-profit initiative started by Nurture.AI CEO Yap Jia Qing in Singapore to educate the public on artificial intelligence through study groups, lectures, and projects. Since its inception in December 2017, it has expanded to 103 chapters worldwide with over 5,000 participants. The program leverages open-access materials from top universities and encourages practical application of AI knowledge. Ambassadors like Divyansh Jha and Kuo Ruey-shen emphasize AI as a beneficial skill for the future, countering fears of job displacement. Participants like Seema Goel and Rohit Singh have found the community and learning experience to be enriching and supportive.
A clash between birds and green energy
The article discusses Ireland's progress towards meeting its 2020 renewable energy targets under the EU's Renewable Energy Directive, with a focus on the impact of renewable energy infrastructure on migratory birds. Wind energy is highlighted as the primary source of renewable energy, with potential benefits for the Irish economy and job creation. However, the article also addresses the negative effects of wind turbines and power lines on bird populations, including collision risks and habitat disruption. Experts from Birdwatch Ireland and the Dublin Institute of Technology emphasize the importance of responsible site selection, environmental impact assessments, and the development of bird-sensitivity mapping tools to protect vulnerable species. The article also touches on the need for reducing energy demand alongside increasing energy production.
Can introducing birds back into ancient territory help to save them from the brink of extinction? A study says yes. Amy Lewis investigates to find out how this can be done.
How Microbes May Influence Our Behavior
The article discusses the connection between the gut microbiome and mental health, a field of research that has gained momentum in recent years. John Cryan of the APC Microbiome Institute at University College Cork, along with other researchers, has found that gut bacteria can influence fear responses and stress. The term 'psychobiotics' was coined to describe live organisms that benefit mental health when ingested. Emeran Mayer of UCLA conducted a study showing that probiotic yogurt reduced negative brain responses in women. Additionally, a Mediterranean-style diet was linked to improved depression symptoms in a study by Deakin University in Australia. While the potential for dietary interventions in mental health treatment is acknowledged, experts like Shane O'Mara of Trinity College Dublin and Charles Bernstein of the University of Manitoba urge caution, emphasizing the need for more human studies. Jack Gilbert of the University of Chicago calls for a revolution in mental illness treatment, highlighting the importance of clinical trials for prebiotics and probiotics.
Repurposing seafood shells is helping to save Australia's decimated shellfish reefs
Conservationists in southern Australia are restoring shellfish reefs by repurposing discarded seafood shells. The Nature Conservancy, in collaboration with local organizations, has collected over 420 cubic meters of shells to re-establish mussel and oyster reefs in Port Phillip Bay. The project aims to provide new habitats for shellfish larvae, improve water quality, and offer sustainable waste management solutions for local businesses. The initiative also creates employment opportunities and hopes to replicate its success in other regions.
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