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INSIDE: Hughes better than Alan to ask about his life on TV3, equality, and starring in a classic ad? P13

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MSB’s Coghlan earns place in Irish Euro team Page 32

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St Mochta’s go top of Sunday Senior league Page 30

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ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES..................... 10 DUBLIN LIFE................... 14 OUT&ABOUT...................17 CLASSIFIEDS.................26 SPORT............................28

have an ice time: We get our skates on and check out Christmas events P12

Candle maker is oldest company  Keith Bellew

Blanchardstown business, Rathborne Candles (Rathborne Lalor), founded in 1488 has been officially named as Dublin’s oldest and Ireland’s second oldest business, in a study conducted by ThinkBusiness. ie, having just lost out to Kyteler’s Inn, Kilkenny, founded in 1324. The company is also the oldest candle-maker in the world, and its candles, which are still hand made to

this day, were used to light Dublin’s streetlamps in the 1700s. The company is now one of the main suppliers of candles to churches throughout Ireland. Speaking to The Gazette, Vincent Brady of Rathborne Lalor, said the company has a fantastic heritage that it is a privilege to work for. “Everybody employed here feels that, and it’s one of our challenges to keep that going,” he said. Full Story on Page 4

Magical moment: Josephine’s joy at meeting Santa Calus santa Claus gave five-year-old

Josephine Donovan a nice hug when they met at the Blanchardstown Centre recently, following Mr Claus’s grand arrival. The man in red and his helpers arrived by helicopter and were

welcomed by lots of little fans including local dance group Starkids Stage School. Santa listened to each child as they told him of their special wishes for presents this Christmas. Picture: Peter Houlihan / Paul Sherwood Photography

2 BLANCH Gazette 26 November 2015

d15 Tanaiste is accused of not taking enough action

Homeless numbers increase by 125% The latest housing figures released by the council shows a 125% increase in the number of people made homeless between February and October. There were 50 instances of homelessness in February, and this rose to 123 by October. In light of these figures, Deputy Mayor of Fingal Jack Chambers (FF) has accused Tanaiste Joan Burton of being more concerned about spin than action when it comes to homelessness “This tide of homelessness is reaching extreme levels in Dublin 15. This

 keith bellew kbellew@dublingazette.com

chaos is the result of inaction by this Government over the past five years. Too many families are in temporary hotel accommodation for many months on end where they cannot conduct their basic necessities such as cooking a dinner. Many are finding it difficult to bring their children to school where

a daily commute for an already impoverished family from a Sandyford hotel to Dublin 15 is hardly reasonable,” he said. He went on to say that the Tanaiste is responsible for the homeless crisis because she capped rent supplement at around €900 and a recent report by the Simon Communities has revealed that 92% of properties were beyond the means of those on rent supplements. “Minister Burton needs to admit that she has driven hundreds of local families into home-

lessness and uncertainty,” he said. He then called on the Government to introduce rent certainty; by increasing the supply of social housing units in the short and medium terms and by freeing up funds to local authorities for the development of social housing A spokesperson for the Tanaiste said rent supplement continues to play a vital role in housing families and individuals, with the scheme currently supporting approximately 63,000 people at an annual cost of €298 million, with over 24,000 recipients in the Dublin region. “As councillor Chambers should know, a repor t published by the [Social Protection] Department as far back as March found that increasing rent limits at this time could potentially add to further rental inflation in an already

There were 50 instances of homelessness in February, and this rose to 123 by October

distressed market and could impact negatively, not alone on rent supplement recipients, but also on many lower income workers and students,” they said. They added that the department is taking action on a case by case basis, and in many cases rents are being increased above prescribed limits. This has assisted 3,200 individuals in Dublin to retain their rented

accommodation. In addition, the threshold protocol has ensured that over 1,400 households in Dublin at immediate risk of losing their tenancy have received rapid assistance. “It would be a lot easier to take Cllr Chambers’ interest in this issue as genuine if he had not recently voted against a Labour motion in Fingal County Council to ringfence €1.8 million for

housing and homelessness services in Fingal, choosing to vote for a property tax cut instead,” they said. A spokesperson from the Department of Environment said Minister Alan Kelly’s recent package on rent certainty includes additional supply measures to encourage more private house building and will provide for no further rent increases for the next two years.

Winter works programme under way Winter is well and truly under way, and the council is gearing up to face potential blizzards with the preparation of its winter works programme. The council has vastly improved its programme since 2010 when local authorities throughout the country were unprepared to cope with the level of snow. Some 4,600 tonnes of road salt is stored in two facilities at Coolmine in Dublin 15 and Watery

Lane, Swords. A new purpose-built salt barn was constructed at the Watery Lane depot in Swords in 2013 and filled with salt to ensure plentiful long-term supply in the event of a prolonged period of very cold weather. The council has eight road salting vehicles which are used over seven routes allowing one spare vehicle to be kept in reserve in case of breakdown.

Dublin Gazette Newspapers, Top Floor, Clarendon House, 39 Clarendon Street, Dublin 2 Tel: 01 - 6010240. Email: sales@dublingazette.com news@dublingazette.com web: www.dublingazette.com twitter: @DublinGazette Visit us on Facebook at DublinGazetteNewspapers

Each of the gritting trucks has a snow plough that can be attached to the front of the vehicle. The number of trained drivers has also been increased from nine in 2010 to 21, the number of supervisors to oversee the road salting schedule has also increased from three in 2010 to 10. A roster of three qualified engineers are also available to make decisions as to whether or not roads should be salted based on information from the Icecast system based on predicted road temperatures and weather conditions provided from Met Eireann. A spokesperson from Fingal County Council

said: “Should weather conditions deteriorate further or beyond the normal ability for Fingal County Council to respond to a bad weather event we have a range of major emergency plans and procedures in place for Fingal and for the Eastern Region that can be activated as required, working with the other principal response agencies namely An Garda Siochana and the Health Ser vices Executive. The Fire Service is part of the local authority response.” The annual winter service plan is available at: www.fingal.ie/roadsand-travel/winter-roadsalting/

26 November 2015 BLANCH Gazette 3

dublin 15 Mindful meditation instructions in return for donations Fort Motors

Dealership expands

Reduce stress while helping support agency  Keith Bellew

People in Dublin 15 are being offered the unique opportunity to learn how to relieve and avoid stress through mindful meditation and support Crosscare Blanchardstown at the same time. Rita O’Donovan who is a stress management professional and has qualifications in teaching mindfulness for both stress and cognitive therapy will give instructions on the methods of mindful meditation for stress reduction to begin in January following the hectic Christmas sea-

son. The service is offered in return for a donation to Crosscare Blanchardstown, where the classes will take place. Crosscare is the social support agency which provides a range of social care, community and youth work services across Dublin 15. Created by Jon KabatZinn, founder of the Stress Reduction Clinic and the Centre for Mindfulness in Medicine, Health Care, and Society at the University of Massachusetts Medical School, mindful meditation incorporates a particular focus on breathing exercises and

focus. O’Donovan is a professionally qualified teacher of mindful meditation having spent four years in Bangor University in north Wales learning to teach the subject. “It was a suggestion of my own initially, to raise funds for Crosscare which is a great organisation, that I would do a taster course in mindfulness and good health, [for] after Christmas when people are coming up with New Year’s resolutions,” she said. She said that the classes will effectively be tasters

Impressive season: Celebrating class in hurling, camogie and football Castleknock GAA Hurlers of the Year Darragh O’ Connell

(Under 12) and Neil Hogan (Under 11) proudly display their winning trophies at the annual juvenile awards night. The event took place at the Westmanstown Conference Centre and was hosted by Kevin O’Neill and was attended by more than 500 boys and girls aged from 8 to 16. Players awards were presented for excellence in hurling, camogie and football. Picture: Shay Hogan

Rita O’Donovan will give instructions on the methods of mindful meditation for stress reduction

for people to get an idea of what mindfulness is all about. “The idea is from the classes I have already given in the centre is to create hubs where people

can follow through after six- or eight-week classes and continue on the practice, because mindfulness is not something you just learn over six weeks, it’s a life-long journey, it

requires discipline that has to be upheld,” she said. Keep an eye on www. ritaodonovan.ie for upcoming details of the course.

The Fort Motor Group has extended its footprint in the capital with the opening of two new Kia dealerships this month. Fort Motors Kia will serve the West Dublin area from a premises close to the Blanchardstown Centre, while Airton Kia opens on Airton Road in Tallaght. Airton Kia is situated in a 45,000 sq foot facility off the Greenhills Road with a state-of-the-art service and bodyshop operation. Fort Motors Kia will operate from a modern 25,000 sq ft premises in Coolmine Industrial Estate in Blanchardstown.

4 BLANCH Gazette 26 November 2015

Rathborne Candles: company is thriving, getting orders from tokyo

Rathborne Candles is the oldest candle-makers in the world

Waxing lyrical about Dublin’s oldest business  Keith Bellew

Blanchardstown business Rathborne Candles founded in 1488 has been officially named as Dublin’s oldest and Ireland’s second oldest business, having just lost out to Kyteler’s Inn, Kilkenny, founded in 1324. Rathborne Candles, which are still hand made to this day, were used to light Dublin’s streetlamps in the 1700s. The company is now one of the main suppliers of candles to churches throughout Ireland. It is also the oldest candle-makers in the world. The business now operates in two parts, Rathborne which handles domestic sales, and Lalors which handles the ecclesiastical side. Lalors was set up in 1910, and famous Irish Republican Cathal Brugha was on the board of directors. Speaking to The Gazette, Vincent Brady

of Rathborne-Lalor said the company has a fantastic heritage and although there are no longer any descendants of the Rathborne family in Ireland, relatives from the USA and Australia still stay in touch. Speaking of the key to the longevity of the business, he said: “The management team here strive all the time to ensure that this company continues to survive and prosper. The fact that it was set up in 1488 means it’s a privilege to work for a company with such heritage. Everybody employed here feels that, and it’s one of our challenges to keep that going. I think everyone in Ireland has had a Rathborne candle in their house at one stage or another.” He went on to say that the company name is instantly recognisable and Rathborne made the millennium candles

which the Government provided to everyone in Ireland to mark the year 2000. He said they are putting blocks in place to ensure that the company continues to thrive, and the future is looking bright as it has just branched out into premium scented candles. “We just launched in September, and we’re dealing exclusively with Brown Thomas, and in the last four weeks we have received orders from Tokyo, Melbourne, New York and London. It’s incredible to think that when we launched in September we were looking at the UK and USA as a potential market, but to have actually received an order from Tokyo was astonishing, and it’s all down to the fact that we are the world’s oldest candle maker and people want to be involved in that,” he said.

26 November 2015 BLANCH Gazette 5

hospice Remembering those who have passed

Tribute to lost loved ones St Francis Hospice, Blanchardstown, will host its annual Outdoor Service of Remembrance “A Time To Remember” and lighting of the Hospice Christmas Tree ceremony on Thursday, December 3. It is a ceremony at which family members and friends of former patients come along to the service to remember those who have passed.

The tree will be lit at 7.30pm followed by the Mass at 8pm. This will be followed by a musical night of festive fun in aid of the hospice at St Mochta’s Church, Porterstown, on Friday, December 4 at 8pm. The event entitled “Songs for a Winter’s Evening: A Christmas Celebration” will see performances by Soprano Mary Flynn, harpists

Teresa and Mary O’Donnell and a number of other talents. Tickets cost €15 each and are available from the parish office at St Mochta’s Church with all proceeds going to the provision of home care, inpatient care and respite care for people with terminal illnesses. For more information see www. blanchardstwnhospice.ie.

christmas: stress-free event in Tyrrelstown

Autism-friendly party for children  Keith Bellew

Jump Autism Support will host its autism friendly Christmas party at Tyrrelstown community centre on Thursday, December 17. A c co rd i ng to co founder Emma Thorpe, it will be an opportunity for families to enjoy a stressfree Christmas party with particular attention made to accommodating their additional needs. “We are organising a sensory/quiet room courtesy of Thinking Toys to allow children a space to avoid becoming overwhelmed with the day as well as play equipment (through Kids Play Hire), their favourite characters, a very special train ride and the man himself [Santa Claus] of course,” she said. The organisation has come along in leaps and bounds since inception in August and Thorpe says the community is really getting behind them, with service providers providing their equipment free of charge, or at cost price, and parents and volunteers getting involved with fundraisers such as bag-packing days in local supermarkets. It was set up by Thorpe and Suzanne O’Connor with the assistance of fellow board members,

Emma Thorpe and Suzanne O’Connor fundraising at Dunnes in Blanchardstown Shopping Centre

Karen Thorpe and David Hosford due to the lack of support available to parents of children with autism. Its inaugural summer camp was funded through a successful fund-raising campaign involving a comedy charity night in the Laughter Lounge and a clothes collection. Such was the interest in the week-long camp that over 80 children could not be accommodated, which is a testament to the need for autism friendly activities/events. “We followed this up with a therapeutic horse riding event which allowed 12 children to

try a therapeutic horseriding session as well as learn about the horses’ needs, such as feeding and grooming. “This was a great success and the children got the sensory and emotional feedback from the horse but also got to enjoy the social element of doing it as a group,” said Thorpe. Other activities to date include an autism friendly karate class, hip hop class and a specially designed weekly social group to bring on the children’s social, speech and play skills. A Halloween camp was also held which

featured drum circles, learning through music, gymboree, an animal Zoo (snakes, spiders etc), play equipment and crazy golf. “As evidenced on our Facebook pages growth, and the individual demand for the camps and groups, the need for this in the community is obvious. Parents are constantly looking for more activities to be made available and this is what we are striving to achieve. Jump Autism Support is attempting to lead the way in appropriate autism services, and much more is needed,” said Thorpe.

6 BLANCH Gazette 26 November 2015

Inglewood Councillors clash on closure proposal

War of words over right of way  Keith Bellew

L o ca l co u nci l l ors have been butting heads this week over a proposal to close the right of way at Inglewood Avenue and Shelerin Road. Deputy Mayor of Fingal Jack Chambers has accused Cllr Paul Donnelly (SF) of U-turning on the issue after Cllr Donnelly submitted a motion to the upcoming area committee meeting requesting that the proposal to close the right of way go on public display and allow the community an opportunity to make representations. A number of weeks

ago Cllr Donnelly was among seven councillors who voted against a motion submitted by Cllr Chambers calling for the right of way to be closed after Inglewood Avenue residents presented him with a petition requesting the closure. A number of councillors requested the motion be deferred until such a time as the views of residents in the other surrounding estates be ascertained. Cllr Donnelly accused Cllr Chambers of attempting to misrepresent his concerns in relation to his motion.

“I and the other six councillors who voted against the original proposal, had not been contacted prior to the meeting in relation to the closure, we all felt that it would not be appropriate to vote in favour of the motion in those circumstances. Despite the majority of councillors asking Cllr Chambers to defer the motion for further consultation he insisted on proceeding, thereby losing the support of the majority of the council,” he said. He said he delivered a leaflet to every door in both Inglewood and

Lohunda Park af ter that meeting to ensure all residents were aware of the proposal and to ensure as much consultation and feedback as possible. “I received several phone calls and one email in support of the closure and no calls or emails opposing the closure,” he said, adding that this prompted him to table the motion. Cllr Chambers dismissed this, saying that if his motion had passed it would have gone to public consultation as a matter of course. “Sinn Fein and Cllr Donnelly just got it

Trees set to be removed A consider able number of trees are to be removed from Huntstown and Lambourne due to their failure to thrive. Twenty-seven semimature Sorbus trees of the Mountain Ash family in Huntstown Close, Road, Grove and Park are to be removed on November 28, and 15 trees in Lambourne are to be removed at a later date. Fingal senior executive Parks superintendent, Ruairi O Dulaing said the trees have been losing vigour for some time. “We have been monitoring the situation, but we now need to take action particularly where the root systems have been affected. In light of this action we are planning a comprehensive scheme of replanting, which will take place during the current planting season. It is planned to replant using a range of different species,” he said

Deputy Mayor of Fingal Jack Chambers and Cllr Paul Donnelly have clashed over a proposal to close a right of way

wrong when my motion on the issue came to council - he was not listening to residents and badly misjudged

the strength of feeling on the matter in Inglewood. “The people of Inglewood don’t need these

games or this political posturing. They need their local representatives to join together in supporting this closure.”

26 November 2015 BLANCH Gazette 7

8 BLANCH Gazette 26 November 2015

don’sdublin How the wandering College of Physicians finally found its home IN 1654, Dr John Stearne – who was a professor of

Ashleigh House Capacity increase warmly welcomed

New changing, sleeping facility officially opened

medicine in Trinity College – founded what was then

 Keith Bellew

called The Fraternity of Physicians of Trinity Hall, with the aim of improving the practice of medicine in Ireland. Surprisingly, it was originally housed in Trinity Hall – a former prison on what is now Trinity Street. In June, 1667, a Royal Charter was granted by King Charles II, and this was amended in 1692 as the original charter was considered “insufficient to compass the noble design”. Sir Patrick Dun was president at the time, and he played a very significant role in the college’s history. He bequeathed his extensive library to the college, which is housed in the building and still in use, and when the hospital on Grand Canal Street that bore his name was opened in 1812, the college had its first permanent home in almost a century. The college bought the premises at No 6, Kildare Street in 1860, but before it could move in a fire destroyed the property. It was not until 1864 that the college had a new home, and the addition of the Kildare Street Club racquet court and its conversion into the Corrigan Hall in 1874 made No 6 one of the city’s most attractive and interesting buildings. 1877 saw Elizabeth Walker Dunbar become the first woman to be allowed to practise medicine in the British Isles, and Kathleen Lynn (18741955) also made a mark. She qualified in 1899, was a member of the Irish Citizen Army, and was its chief medical officer during the 1916 Easter Rising. Lynn was imprisoned, then subsequently elected as a Sinn Fein TD, but never took her seat. She established St Ultan’s Hospital, Charlemont Street in 1919 and received a state funeral when she died in 1955. No 6 is a great building with beautiful interiors, and is a popular city centre venue for conferences and weddings.

Don Cameron

www.donsdublin.wordpress.com

A new changing and sleeping facility providing accommodation for an additional six women and their children, as they participate in residential addiction treatment at Coolmine Therapeutic Community was officially launched by Lord Mayor of Dublin Criona Ni Dhalaigh. Located at Ashleigh House, the additional facility enables Coolmine to cater for up to 24 mothers and their children as they participate in treatment. The service also caters for expectant women with complex needs who are in crisis and at risk of homelessness. It is the only residential addiction centre for mothers and their children in Ireland. The mayor said the service provided at Ashleigh House is critical to supporting more women to access treatment without fear of losing access to their children. “As a member of the South Inner City Local Drugs and Alcohol Task Force for many years, I have seen, close up, the work carried out by the dedicated team at Coolmine Therapeutic Community,” she said. Health Minister Leo Varadkar also commended the team saying they

Lord Mayor of Dublin Criona Ni Dhalaigh pictured at the launch with Lisa Larkin, Ashleigh House manager and Pauline McKeown, Coolmine CEO

have shown that drug addiction doesn’t have to be a life sentence. “I’m delighted that the new changing and sleeping facilities have now been formally opened. T hese were funded under a National Lottery Scheme grant of €40,000 from my Department. And the HSE also provided €100,000 earlier this year to help Coolmine to meet demand and expand its services at Ashleigh House,” he said. Speaking at the event, Alan Connolly, chair-

person of Coolmine Therapeutic Community thanked the Department of Health and HSE for the funding which has allowed the capacity increase at Ashleigh House. “This is part of an overall renovations project at Ashleigh House that includes work to extend the onsite creche to cater for more babies and preschool children next year,” he added. Every year, Coolmine helps over 1,200 men, women and families impacted by problematic

substance abuse. Ashleigh House has supported 69 women in residential treatment so far this year. “Since January 2015, 53 women have been admitted to residential treatment, including 37 mothers, 13 mother and child admissions, and five maternity transfers. This represents an increase of 29%,” said Connolly. The service in Ashleigh House is underpinned by the Parents under Pressure (PuP) programme in its curriculum for clients with children. The

PuP programme is a strengths-based parenting programme, supporting mothers with addiction issues, to develop positive and secure relationships with their children in a nurturing family environment. “We are committed to this programme as it helps us break a generational cycle of addiction from father to son or mother to daughter. We are finding that clients coming to Coolmine are third generation families who have addiction problems,” Connolly said.

Independent TJ Clare to stand in election With the general election fast approaching, the latest candidate to throw their hat into Dublin West’s political ring is independent candidate TJ Clare. Clare is a primary school teacher in Blanchardstown and has previously contested the local elections in 2014. He was also a leader of the Yes Equality Campaign in

Dublin West and was involved in the Right2Water Campaign in the constituency. He joins the growing ranks of candidates which include incumbents Tanaiste Joan Burton, Health Minister Leo Varadkar, Deputies Ruth Coppinger (SP) and Joe Higgins (SP). Other candidates include sitting Fingal councillors Roder-

ic O’Gorman (GP), David McGuinness (Ind), Paul Donnelly (SF), and Deputy Mayor of Fingal Jack Chambers (FF), along with Senator Catherine Noone (FG) and Blanchardstown postmaster Geoff Boyle. Speaking about his candidacy, Clare said he wants to represent equality, democracy and social justice in Dail Eireann. “I am contesting this elec-

tion to be a strong independent voice and Dublin West representative. I support progressive policies that stand against the inequalities that have emerged and grown due to the actions of this Government and their predecessors. “I aim to challenge policies which have impacted disproportionately on those in society who have least,” he said.

26 November 2015 BLANCH Gazette 9

10 BLANCH Gazette 26 November 2015

gazetteGALLERIES

Conor Prunty, Brian Carter, Philip Bourke and Graham Curtin. Picture: Ronan O’Sullivan

fundraiser: Ladies Strut their Stuff to help out their club

astleknock Ladies Team recently organised an event to raise much-needed funds for the Castleknock Hurling and Football Club. Over 250 ladies were treated to a makeup master class by Benefit Cosmetics top makeup artist Mark Rogers. Fiona Downey from Hair Sensations provided excellent tips on how to make the most of your hair and throughout the night members of the Castleknock GAA Club both young and more “mature” took to the catwalk to model fantastic outfits provided by Shamon in Caslteknock Village and CT2 suit hire in Blanchardstown. The climax of the night was announcement of best dressed lady which was deservedly won by Pat Downey who crocheted her own dress. The night was acknowledged as a roaring success and all the ladies left looking even more beautiful than when they arrived.

Alison Swaine

Temi Adediran and Memunat Bello. Pictures: Ronan O’Sullivan

Scoil Choilm: ISPCC’s Shield Flag for school

Battling bullying brings top honour

Pat Downey and daughter, Fiona

Sinead Dunne and Aideen Battigan

coil Choilm CNS is the first school in Dublin to have been awarded the Shield My School Flag. The Shield campaign has been organised by the Irish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children to tackle bullying. ISPCC national anti-bullying co coordinator Sinead McKee said: “This is a proud day for

the teachers, students, parents and guardians. Scoil Choilm is setting a positive example to other schools in the area and I have no doubt that more schools in the area will engage with the ISPCC Shield program when they hear about the encouraging work this school has achieved.”

Monica McGinn, Ann Carolan and Sharon Mohan David Iacob

Laura Markovicova

26 November 2015 BLANCH Gazette 11

Ayman Abdelrahman

Declan Phan and Kamil Suchomski

Aya Hatoum and Adam Abughoffa

Ava Byrne

Naveen Zehra, Hannah, Murphy-Costelloe and Sasha Miron

12 blanch Gazette 26 November 2015

family fun Celebrating the Christmas season across Dublin

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 Tis the Season … 

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The annual Carols by Candlelight service organised by Blanchardstown Baptist Church will be held at Riversdale Community College on Sunday, December 20 at 6:15pm. The hour-long event will feature special music illuminated by 100 glowing candles. Complimentary seasonal refreshments will be served afterwards and there will be a creche for children under five years during the event to facilitate families with young children. For more information, call 085 702 1425 or visit www.bbc.ac. Draiocht will host its two-day Christmas Craft Fair Extravaganza on Saturday, November 28-29. Patrons can come along and support local crafters enjoy raffle prizes, face painting and hot chocolate; and watch featured Christmas films, Elf and The Muppet Christmas Carol. The 30 stalls will feature some hand crafted work, including knitting, crochet, baking, jewellery, needlework, wood turning, origami, cards, journals, children’s clothes, buttons, key rings, handbags, photography and much more. See www.draiocht.ie

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Blanch

With Christmas just around the corner the Gazette checked some of the best seasonal events from around the city for more information.

Swords Empire Bar in Swords is hosting a Christmas market at its Babylon club on Sunday, December 6 from 12 noon to 5pm. Punters will receive warming mulled wine and mince pies on arrival and be treated to the sounds of local carol singers. Lots of great exhibitors signed up and there will be wreaths and great gifts and stocking fillers and decorations on display such as Manilla Boutique, Country Couture Gifts, Lifetime Toy Company, Crannah Cakes, Gannon Craft, K•L•O Kids Lou Lou Belle and more. Malahide plays host to the Christmas Kingdom this year at the Marina Green and the Castle. Along with food and gifts there will be numerous amusements such as merry-go-rounds, vintage carousels, and chair-oplanes. Other special features include the Polar Express train, a 2,200 square foot ice rink, a Charles Dicken’s themed street, Christmas markets, Rudolf and some real reindeer, elves, Santa and Mrs Claus, the Polar Post Office for sending Santa letters, the tunnel of lights and

Christmas Tree Avenue. The Christmas Kingdom is due to open every weekend from November 20 and every day from December 18 until 23.

Dublin City Dublin is borrowing from New York this Christmas with the I BELIEVE festival at Custom House Quarter from Thursday, November 26 to Wednesday, December 23. Inspired by the 82-year tradition behind the world-famous Rockefeller Tree in New York, I BELIEVE will be centred on a 50-foot Christmas tree, donated by Coillte. It will be a festival of food, drink, craft and horticulture, With a focus on supporting Irish businesses, traders, crafts people, producers and charities, A carefully curated selection of the nation’s leading food, drink, craft and horticulture producers will trade in the festive village with exceptional quality and locally sourced products. They will be joined by Dublin’s iconic Clerys Santa who will be relocating his workshop and elves to the I BELIEVE Christmas Tree and Village for 2015. For more informa-

Snow Queen Rosanna Davison and Hannah O’Reilly snuggle up at the launch of the Christmas Kingdom in Malahide. Picture: Gareth

Ryan Curran at the official opening of the inaugural Dun

Chaney Collins

Laoghaire Christmas Festival. Picture: Jason Clarke Photography

tion visit: www.ibelieveinchristmas.ie/

South Dublin County In Dublin Mid-West this year, Lucan Library is hosting a small craft’s fair for Christmas. They’re currently looking to hear from local businesses and crafts people interested in showcasing their products in the library on Friday, December 11 and Saturday, December 12. From candles to cakes and everything in between, they’re open to ideas. Contact 01-6216422 or email

lucan@sdublincoco.ie for more information. On Saturday, December 5, St Andrew’s National School, Lucan are hosting their own Christmas fair, opening at 10.30am. The items for sale during the fair include: toys, bric-a-brac, cakes, teas, books, crafts, a raffle and many more. Santa Claus will also be making a special appearance at 11am. Panto tickets for Beauty and the Beast will also be on sale. On November 29, a celebration of song in aid of the Irish Cancer Soci-

ety will take place in St Mary’s Church, Leixlip at 7.30pm. Sopranos Karen Nelson and Annmarie Corcoran will perform on the night, along with Our Lady’s Nativity Parish Choir. Admission for this event is €12 for adults and €5 for children and can be purchased at the door.

Airfield at Christmas A Christmas festival will be held in Airfield Estate in Dundrum over the next month and it will include all things seasonal. The Overend family

home and gardens will be transformed into a winter wonderland with a charming gingerbread village, an enchanted walled garden where Airfield’s fairies spend their Christmas, giant nutcracker soldiers, and a warm welcome from an elf who will bring small children into see Santa in his cottage. Santa’s reindeers will also be outside the cottage. Airfield’s Christmas experience is currently running from now until Tuesday, December 22. For more information see www.airfield.ie

26 November 2015 blanch Gazette 13

rte Weekly papers ‘are imperative to the community’

A look into the heart of local newspapers  aisling kennedy akennedy@dulbingazette.com

An RTE documentary centred around how important local newspapers are in the wake of the onset of digital journalism is currently airing on RTE 1. The producer behind the series, Gerry Reynolds, is a strong advocate of the importance of local print having come from a print background himself and said that he believes now, more than ever, local papers are imperative to the local community. Reynolds spoke to the Dublin Gazette about his documentary, The Local Eye, and said: “Local

papers are part of Ireland’s DNA and they’re absolutely vital and central to who we are as a community and as a society. In the first series we focus on the Clare Champion, the Mayo News, and the Munster Express which have been family-owned newspapers down through the generations. “We knew that they were going through very hard times and we wanted to see how these newspapers, which had been around for over 150 years, are surviving. “We found that absolutely yes they are surviving and we found that there’s a huge affection for them because they

reflect and speak to the communities where people live. We met a very interesting man who was an optician and he put a campaign out on social media for his business. He said the campaign reached everywhere in the world but that nothing reached the people that he wanted to reach like the local paper.” Reynolds also found that local papers are central to the local community especially when there is an issue that the community care about. “There is also a huge range of material in them too with everything from court reports to humour. The content is what makes it and the secret

is good journalism. The local papers invest in good writers and there’s nothing that can beat that. “The reason local papers will survive is because they find the extraordinary in the ordinary, they find the wonder in the seemingly commonplace. They look at the detail in a way that you can see where the beauty is whereas in a lot of other media it’s glitz and glam and it just washes over you. They’re at the heart of it, they’re at the heart of human life and existence so I’ve a huge affection for them.” Reynolds himself began as a freelance journalist for the Irish Times, the

The first series of The Local Eye focuses on the Clare Champion, the Mayo News, and the Munster Express and (inset) the producer behind the series, Gerry Reynolds

Irish Independent and the Sunday Independent. He went on to win Young Journalist of the Year for a series on crime and he also worked as editor of the Garda Review. He has worked for RTE for many years but still always takes time to read

his local newspaper. “I think local papers are doing their very best and I think that as long as they migrate the stories and the brand that they have onto the online platform as well as print they will have a great future. Over a third of a million

people tuned into our programme over the last few weeks which is huge numbers. So there is an appetite and an interest in local newspapers.” The Local Eye is currently running every Thursday at 7pm on RTE 1.

14 Gazette 26 November 2015

gazetteGALLERY

The Bugle Babes, whose singing helped to set the classic musical vibe

Ken Stanley and Elaine Heaslip

Mike Hope Panti Bliss and Noel Sutton toast the ball’s success in the fundraising evening ahead. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Helping film workers in vivid technicolour P

With plenty of witty, colourful banter from Ms Bliss, songs from The Bugle Babes, and dance routines from The Dublin Burlesque Dancers, the evening was a lively, upbeat affair, with everyone happy to help film workers who have contributed much to the nation’s cultural coffers.

ANTI Bliss was the inimitable host of the annual fundraising Cinema Ball recently, which was held at the Intercontintal Hotel. Run by the Irish Cinematograph Trade Benevolent Fund, the ball aims to help individuals in the film industry in Ireland who may for one reason or

another, find themselves in need. Based on the theme of Glorious Technicolour – A Celebration of Movies Musicals, many ballgoers set aside formal, gloomy colours to sport vibrant hues, or accessorised classic ball staples with subtle splashes of colour.

Caroline and Grace Cassidy

Katharine Buckley, Orla King and Laura Nolan

GAZETTE

26 November 2015 GAZETTE 15

DUBLINLIFE

THE BIG INTERVIEW

ALAN HUGHES: TV3 PRESENTER ON HIS BUSY LIFE

Proud to be a full and equal member of Irish society

 IAN BEGLEY

AFTER proposing to his long-time partner on national television recently, TV3’s Alan Hughes says that after years of campaigning for equal rights, he is proud to live in a society where same-sex marriage is now legalised. As part of this week’s Big Interview, Hughes talks about his impromptu proposal to song/ scriptwriter Karl Broderick, and what it was like to live in Ireland as a gay man when homosexuality was still illegal. He also discusses his upcoming panto, Beauty and the Beast, the famous 1980s ESB advert he starred in, and his recent health scare. “Karl was totally stunned when I proposed to him [live on air on TV3’s IrelandAM] because I’m not the type of person who would usually do that sort of thing. It was totally unexpected, and since the Marriage Bill was signed into law that week I thought it was the right time to do it. “When we got back to the house, he kept saying: ‘I can’t believe you did that, I can’t believe you did that’, but he was delighted nonetheless. “We had such a massive civil partnership celebration in 2011, and I don’t think we could ever dream of topping it, but after we finish up with the panto we’ll probably do something quiet in the country.” Asked about the criticism he received from comic Oliver Callan, who described his public proposal as “crass”, Hughes said he thinks it’s very sad.

“For a man who came out of the closet on national television and who bases his career on television, it doesn’t make any sense as to why Oliver would have a problem with it. “But I suppose since Mario Rosenstock is getting a new TV show on RTE, he probably feels like he needs to do something to publicise himself.” The TV3 presenter went onto say that he first met Broderick 23 years ago, when it was still illegal to be gay in Ireland. “When we first met it was a very different time. I knew people who would walk up and down

the street before heading into a gay bar and enter when nobody was looking. “Myself and Karl never really went out to places openly as a couple together. It was not as if we were hiding our relationship, it was just the way Irish society was at the time for gay people. “I remember when I got a job as the presenter of a big Friday night game show called Talk About on RTE, the producer told me not to be doing anything that would come up in the papers. “He knew that I was gay and I’ve always been very open with people, but Karl wasn’t, so it was

a big learning curve for him at the start going out with someone from TV. “We’ve come on so far in the last 22 years, and now that same-sex marriage is legalised it’s just brilliant. TV3 have always been very tolerant of myself and Karl, and do everything they can to support us,” he said. Talking about his health scare last year when he was rushed to hospital due to low oxygen levels, Hughes said that it was down to stress and being overworked. “I’m grand now and don’t let myself get too stressed out. I’ve never cancelled a show in the 21 years I’ve been doing

panto, and I don’t plan on ever doing so. “The panto is getting on really well this year. Sales have gone up compared to last year, and I really think it’s going to be a big success.” Asked about the iconic ESB advert he starred in during the 1980s when he played the part of a young man returning to Ireland to see his mammy, Hughes said that the commercial will most likely stay with him forever. The Cheerios Panto – Beauty and the Beast, will start in the Tivoli Theatre from December 9 to January 10. Tickets can be purchased at www. panto.ie.

Presenter Alan Hughes (right) shocked his long-time partner Karl Broderick by proposing to him live on air recently

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16 Gazette 26 November 2015

dublinlife

diary

Paul puts in a massive tackle for Barnardos Irish Rugby Hero and Barnardos’ Ambassador Paul O’Connell called on people to dig deep and give children a happy Christmas and a brighter future as he launched Barnardos’ Christmas appeal recently. Barnardos works with more than 11,300 chil-

dren and families in 40 community-based centres across Ireland, supporting them to achieve their potential in life. Speaking at the launch, Paul O’Connell said Barnardos is working to give hard-pressed families the Christmas they deserve and the support they need

to change their future “ T h e r e a r e m a ny parents out there who, through no fault of their own, may have to say no to their children this Christmas. Barnardos will use your donation to bring some Christmas magic into the lives of the children they work with

by helping families to make sure they have what they need for a happy Christmas,” he said. To give your support to Barnardos this Christmas with a donation or toy, visit www.barnardos.ie/ christmas.”

celebrating Trad and Folk music The annual Temple Bar TradFest returns this year for its 11th instalment from January with what organisers are calling a vibrant programme. The festival line up for January 2016 has been announced and once again includes a programme of Irish and international performers performing in some of Dublin’s most historic venues. The festival will include the Front Row Sessions, a series of 13 free concerts in the pubs of Temple Bar. TradFest also provides a platform for emerging artists to showcase their talents to an international audience. Other elements include TradKids from The Ark, Ireland’s only dedicated Cultural Centre for children, TradFringe embracing many of the cities established cultural venues such as The Irish Film Institute, The Gallery Of Photography, Irish Writers Centre, and The Hugh Lane Gallery. In 2016 TradFest will also host a series of newly commissioned works commemorating 1916.

Irish rugby hero and Barnardos ambassador Paul O’Connell launched Barnardos’ Christmas appeal recently with the help of Molly Kennedy and David McNally

For more information visit: www.templebartrad.com.

Lord of the Flies production Following a hugely successful run earlier this year with their production of To Kill A Mockingbird, Regent’s Park Theatre’s critically acclaimed production Lord of the Flies will visit Bord Gais Energy Theatre from November 24 to 28. After a group of s c h o o l b o y s s u r v i ve a catastrophic plane crash, what starts as a classic desert island adventure quickly descends into a struggle for survival in a darkly sinister world of superstition and immorality. William Golding’s 20th century classic explodes onto the stage in this remarkable production direct from London’s award-winning Regent’s Park Theatre. This production is directed by Regent’s Park Theatre’s artistic director Timothy Sheader and co-directed by Liam Steel with design by Jon Bausor, and composition and sound score by Nick Powell. Tickets for Lord of the Flies are priced from €15 to €45 and can be purchased by visiting

w w w. b o r d g a i s e n e rgytheatre.ie.

see www.nationalgallery.ie.

Hennessy Portrait Prize winner

just who was in the GPO in 1916

The winner of the 2015 Hennessy Portrait Prize was announced last week at the National Gallery of Ireland. Vera Klute was awarded the prize of €15,000 for her oil canvas painting entitled Anne Ryder and will also receive a commission worth €5,000 to produce a portrait for inclusion in the National Portrait Collection. The aim of the competition is to showcase and encourage interest in contemporary portraiture and to raise the profile of the National Portrait Collection at the National Gallery of Ireland. Klute has exhibited widely both in Ireland and abroad and is also currently working towards a solo exhibition in the Molesworth Gallery in 2016. Of the 260 entrants in the competition this year, 12 were shortlisted by the judging panel and these 12 entries currently have their portraits displayed in an exhibition at the National Gallery of Ireland until Sunday February 14, 2016. For more information

A book which seeks to definitively answer the question of exactly who was in the GPO during Easter Week 1916 was launched recently by Dublin Lord Mayor, Criona Ni Dhalaigh at City Hall. “The GPO Garrison Easter Week 1916 - A Biographical Dictionary”, was written by retired Dublin City Council worker and Dublin historian Jimmy Wren following 30 years of painstaking research. The book contains over 520 names of GPO garrison members, whose ages range from 12-63 years and includes full supporting evidence from many and varied sources. The amount of people who claimed to have taken part in the action at the GPO during Easter Week could fill a small stadium and this book aims to give a definitive answer to the many claims and counter claims. From Geography Publications and partlysponsored by Dublin City Council, the book is priced at €25 and is available from all good bookshops.

26 November 2015 Gazette 17

asdfsdaf P27 cinema P25

food P21

OUT&ABOUT Never be out of the loop on what’s happening in Dublin! Let Out&About be your guide to all that is stylish, cultural and essential across the city and beyond this week



Gazette

travel P20

The Pavilion Theatre: RTE Contempo Quartet presents unique concert experience

Getting the classical treatment  Keith Bellew

Composer Glen Austin and the RTE Contempo Quartet, featuring renowned bodhran player Aimee Farrell Courtney will present a unique concert experience that unites classical music with Irish rock and pop from the last 30 years, at The Pavilion Theatre, Dun Laoghaire on December 5. This follows the recent release of an album in the same vein called New Airs, which features classical arrangements of songs such as With or Without You by U2, Run by Snow Patrol and The

Boys are Back in Town by Thin Lizzy. Other featured artists include Kodaline, The Script, Enya, and Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova. The album also introduces new settings of older Irish airs inspired by modern artist’s interpretations such as Sinead O’Connor’s version of She Moved Through the Fair and Luke Kelly’s musical adaptation of Patrick Kavanagh’s poem Raglan Road. Speaking to The Gazette, Austin said that the project is something he had considered doing for a long time as rock

music was his first love before he discovered classical music. “Adrian Mantu, the director of Contempo Quartet, approached me and said he’d be interested in doing something with rock music and I jumped at the chance. I thought it would be great to explore Irish rock and pop because it had never been done before with classical music,” he said. He went on to say that deciding which artists to include was quite difficult because there are so many to choose from.

“It’s only the first album and the first concert, we already have ideas for a second and third album. It was just a matter of making a choice between all this great music. “Everyone might feel that there’s one or two that could be included, but it won’t be the last album or concert, so if things go well, the plan is to have a second or third edition where we can actually put in those other great artists as well,” he said. He said that adapting the rock songs and arranging them for the quartet was quite an

RTE Contempo Quartet will be joined by renowned Irish bodhran player Aimee Farrell Courtney and Glen Austin on electonics

undertaking and not one he took lightly. “When it comes to something like this, the job is not only arranging it but interpreting it for the ensemble. On top of that you also have to try

to be true to the originals themselves, and try to show them in a different light that’s not losing the spirit of the case,” he said. Despite the apparent gravity with which he approached the arrange-

ment, he said that the project has been a lot of fun, and he and the quartet are looking forward to their first performance. For more information on the show, visit: www. paviliontheatre.ie/

GAZETTE

18 GAZETTE 26 November 2015

OUT&ABOUT

STYLE Raw denim

Wide L

sleeveless

eg De

deep v-neck €125 with

€69 horts nim S

All-in-One dove nubuck stacked wood sole sandal €99

Sim kno ple S tte hop d s pe tra r w ps €1 ith 15

Mary Grant AW15 Vintage floral print jersey wrap dress €195

Wrap up this winter!  PEARL PHELAN

MARY Grant hosted a breakfast at her boutique in the Powerscourt Town Centre recently to showcase her current autumn/winter collection. The store manager, Fiona, baked banana bread for the Suede obi belt €65 occasion and a wonderful spread was laid out on an old wood turner’s bench. Accessories are displayed on beautifully textured cable drum tables in the shop. The warmth of the wholesome bread and respect for craftsmanship reflected in the choice of furniture and are revealing indicators of what the Mary Grant label stands for. Only the finest materials are selected for use in the manufacture of her garments and knitted pieces are handmade by a family owned company in Italy. You would be very cosy wrapped up in her ribbed cowl, a clever piece which can be pulled down over the shoulders as an alternative to wearing it high on the neck. Not to mention the fine cashmere wrap to keep you chic and warm. But there is another kind of wrap that Mary Grant has on offer, and it is so flattering to all shapes. Check out the wrap tops and dresses made in jersey which falls softly and elegantly. You can emphasise the waistline by adding an obi belt to flowy dresses, or to smarten up a plain winter coat. What a great way to add a pop of colour to a simple outfit to take you through the festive season! You can shop online but a visit to the store is a must if you are in town so you can have a feel of the sumptuous materials and get an insight into Mary’s world.

Purple haze cashmere wrap €280

Denim dress with foldover €89

Denim drawstring back bikini top €29

ottom €

ikini b enim b

Denim bead rectangular metal ring €19

Spring for some denim

WITH COS Denim bead metal ring €19

Knotted leather sandal €99

 JESSICA MAILE

I LOVE DENIM. It’s a love that started in my teenage years even though I grew up in a decade where acid-washed jeans were chic. But in the 21st century, designing with denim has become an actual art form and no one does this better than COS. Forget the winter blues and dream of spring blues instead. Think simple denim shorts with a crisp, white top or a func-

tional apron dress with a nonconventional drapey denim. The sleeveless all-in-one is the essence of simplicity and a modern must-have. Even the bikini gets the denim treatment with a distorted denim print. Accent these pieces with luxurious leather shopper or an ice grey nubuck leather sandal. From raw denim to their clever use of compressed recycled denim in the geometric metal jewellery, COS has reinvented this classic fabric with their fresh, new take on spring essentials.

26 November 2015 Gazette 19

Gazette

20 Gazette 26 November 2015

OUT&ABOUT

fast

TRAVEL NEWS

TRAVEL

skiing: find your perfect resort for a winter getaway

Turn dreams of a white Christmas into a reality  Ian Begley

Stylish comfort and luxury in the heart of the city  Ian Begley

I recently enjoyed a one night stay at the stylish four-star Trinity City Hotel, to coincide with the switching on of the Christmas light. It’s located right beside Trinity College on Pearse Street. We stayed in a room which is interestingly part of an original Victorian Fire Station. The room was very jazzy in style and offered the height of modern comfort, ample velux windows, a smart lounge area and a range of unique artwork. For the day that was in it we took a trip to the Irish Whiskey Museum on Grafton Street, just a five minute walk down the road. The one-hour tour was a lot more interesting than I expected with visual stories of Irish whiskey through the ages. The highlight of course was a whiskey tasting session and a complimentary Irish coffee at the end. Coincidentally, the annual Christmas lights were being turned on in Grafton Street on the same day, which was the perfect way to bring the afternoon to a close before we headed back to the hotel for dinner. Building up a hearty appetite, we feasted on a delectable six-course tasting menu after a few predinner cocktails at the hotel’s front lounge. We had a cured salmon with horseradish cream and Guinness bread to start, followed by a delicious bowl of wild mushroom and tarragon soup. After a very refreshing champagne sorbet, we dined on a beautiful fillet of pan seared sea bass followed by a very tender cut of lamb. And if that wasn’t enough, the sixth course consisted of a chocolate plate involving a mousse, hazelnut brownie and raspberry sorbet. Up bright and early the following morning I enjoyed a full Irish breakfast before checking out and heading on my very short commute to work. Just a stone throw away from the capital’s iconic landmarks and venues, Trinity City is certainly a great location for anyone looking for a city retreat. Rooms start from €119 for two adults sharing, see www.trinitycityhotel.com

Dreaming of a white Christmas? Well dream no more as there are many winter ski resorts to choose from this holiday season which offer a fantastic range of festive entertainment for all the family to enjoy. With Highlife Ski & Snowboard you can spend a family winter vacation in one of three stylish French resorts – Morzine, Meribel or Val d’Lsere. If a cosy Alpine chalet complete with an open log fire, outdoor hot tub, a sauna and your very own chalet chef sounds good to you, swap the pots and pans, long shopping queues and extended family reunions for a festive chalet. Your chalet will be transformed into a festive retreat with open fires, sparkling decorations and your very own authentic Christmas tree to get you into the holiday spirit from the moment you arrive. On Christmas Eve, guests returning from an action-packed day on the slopes will be greeted with warming mulled wine and mince pies fresh out of the oven. On Christmas morning awake to the sound of crackling log fires and a visit from Santa bearing presents for the kids. Your very own chalet chef will prepare a delicious breakfast allowing you to spend quality time with your loved ones, cherishing the precious moments of unwrapping the gifts from under the tree.

Val d’Isere offers high quality, snow-sure slopes for everyone from complete beginner to veterans

So, turn your dream of a white Christmas into a reality with departures from Dublin on December 20, from €1,120 per adult and €910 per child aged 11 or under for seven nights. For more information, visit www.highlife.ie, or contact 01 677 1100. With Crystal Sky Holidays, embrace the holiday season by spoiling yourself and your family with an exciting ski vacation away. From €460 per person, you can spend one week in the Austrian mountain resort of Mayrhofen with flights leaving on December 19. Penken and Ahorn are Mayrhofen’s mountains - with 135km of skiing and Austria’s steepest

run, Harakiri, it’s one of the most diverse Alpine resorts. Mayrhofen’s mountains have a wide variety of more challenging runs and, in the right conditions, some impressive off-piste. Plus, the Vans Penken Park is one of the leading freestyle parks in Europe. Also in Austria is the Niederau Ski Holiday resort, which is priced from €525 per person for seven nights, with flights leaving on January 9. Niederau, based in the Wildschonau valley, is picturesque and perfect for both families and beginners, with wide nursery slopes and easy to use drag lifts. There’s also the excellent 1st Wildschonau Ski

School and a nursery childcare Snowboarders should watch out for a few flat sections and experienced skiers will probably need a little more challenging terrain. The link over to Alpbach opens up the Ski Juwel’s full 145km - all covered by your pass. If France is more to your taste then from €474 per person you can spend seven nights in the traditional French village Les Carroz, which is located in the world famous Grand Massif ski area. This resort is made for people who prefer skiing in a homely, more personal setting in comparison to its purpose built neighbour Flaine. In the middle of Les Carroz you’ll find a pictur-

esque village centre with a small collection of shops, cafes and restaurants. The small scale of the resort means fantastic scenery and beautiful views across the valley that should not be missed. Accommodation wise, we have different types of self-catering, from reasonably basic to luxury residences with wellness facilities to match. When it comes to activities there’s plenty on offer, you’ll find toboggan runs, horse-drawn carriage rides and even dog-sledding to fill the hours for non-skiers or in your hours out of the skis. There’s also a resort ice rink. For more information about these deals, visit www.crystalski.ie.

26 November 2015 Gazette 21

Gazette

FOOD&DRINK BITESIZEDNEWS

Pat Whelan with the product

Campagne

French restaurant

The Arches, Gas House Lane Wood panelling and dark colours on the walls give this place a plush feel and seating was really comfortable

The Picky Eater

Whenever I hear Michelin Star, my mind jumps to overly formal, over the top service. I always love the food, mind you, but waiters constantly fawning over you is slightly off-putting. When I heard about Campagne restaurant in Kilkenny, I was eager to try it as the menu seemed less fussy and less overpriced than some other establishments that hold the coveted star. When we arrived, those views remained as the restaurant is in a very quiet part of town just below what looks like apartments or an office block. So far, nothing over the top or ostentatious anyway. Inside the dining room is very comfortable and was absolutely buzzing on a busy Saturday night. Wood panelling and dark colours on the walls give this place a plush feel and seating was really comfortable. The maitre d’ was a very friendly lady who took us

through the specials and explained anything that might be unknown to myself and my friend. After ordering a delicious bottle of Picpoul de Pinet (€30) (a wine that is having a bit of a moment) we jumped straight in to starters. I went for a fois gras pate layered with a delicious butter served on an autumn fruit jelly and a toasted brioche (€16). This was absolutely sublime but the outright winner was my pal’s scallop royale, served with Jerusalem artichokes and lobster bisque (€16). So much thought and time had obviously gone into this outstanding dish and we spent ages trying to figure out how they made it. I won’t spoil the fun and will leave it for you to the same guessing game. Next up came my mate’s fillet of Hereford beef with glazed mushrooms, spinach puree, ox tongue croquettes and porcini butter sauce

(€32). From a lady who is considering going vegetarian, she was certainly having fun at the wake and was almost in tears at the thought of what she was about to give up. My poached turbot (€32) came with a similar sauce and could be eaten with a spoon, it had the perfect texture and taste. My friend had a glass of ribera del duero (€8.25) with her meat and having lived in Spain for several years, she said it was one of the best she’d sampled outside of Spain. A stunning side of mash and parsnips went down a treat with both dishes.

We really were not fit for anything more at this point, but seeing a hot chocolate fondant being brought to most tables, we decided this dish was obviously worth trying. The locals were going mad for it. It was served with vanilla ice cream and glazed cherries (€9) and was certainly worth the longer waiting time.

All in all this was a fantastic experience and it’s well worth the trip to Kilkenny. T here are lots of places to stay in the city, after all it’s a really buzzing place. We stayed slightly outside in Mount Juliet, which is a stunning old country house hotel. For more see campagne.ie.

Conclusion Campagne boasts a stylish interior featuring oak flooring, curved banquette leather seating and modern paintings. The emphasis is on high-quality seasonal produce with French influences in a relaxed and comfortable dining area. (5, The Arches, Gas House Lane, Kilkenny. Phone:(056) 777 2858

Superb old-fashioned flavour returns FOR many, beef dripping is something our parents’ parents cooked with and not widely used today. However, James Whelan Butchers has brought this nostalgic delicacy back to the kitchen with their award-winning heritage product that delivers a superb old-fashioned flavour. Intensely savoury, the beef dripping was awarded Supreme Champion at the Great Taste Awards 2015, receiving high praise from judge and food critic Charles Campion. Speaking at an event celebrating the beef dripping in Avoca Kilmacanogue, Campion described it as “the simplest of products, that touched the hearts of all the judges”. Seeing the upsurge of interest in heritage foods and traditional ingredients, Pat Whelan of James Whelan Butchers, was inspired to create his own beef dripping. With the very best of beef available to him, and with the guidance of his mother, he soon perfected a product that he was proud to share with his customers. The dripping is produced in Clonmel by Whelan, a fifth generation butcher, and made from the purest suet from grass-fed Irish Angus and Hereford beef. These magical creamy ingots transform roast vegetables and potatoes and makes the most perfectly golden fish and chips. The product stays fresh for up to six months. With the festive season just around the corner, a little of James Whelan’s beef dripping will go a long way to adding a depth of flavour to all kinds of dishes - with a higher smoke point than goose fat, it makes the ultimate crispy roast potatoes and paired with butter, delivers the tastiest shortcrust pastry, not to mention simply spread on toast for a seriously nostalgic trip to flavour town. “It’s the taste of my childhood,” said Pat Whelan. “Our beef dripping is nutrient rich, high in omega-3 acids, clean, pure and carries great flavour, whether for frying a steak, roasting potatoes, or spread onto good bread.” Available to buy at: Avoca Food Market, Monkstown, County Dublin, Avoca, Rathcoole, County Dublin Avoca, Kilmacanogue, Bray, County Wicklow, James Whelan Butchers, Clonmel, County Tipperary and at jameswhelanbutchers.com

Gazette

22 Gazette 26 November 2015

OUT&ABOUT

Fisher Price Laugh & Learn Scooter €55

S Em M&

toysfor thekids

ily Bu tton €24

WHETHER it’s your bonnie baby’s very first Christmas, or if you’re looking out for gifts for older children, there’s plenty of great toys to find in the shops as Christmas draws near, with some cutting-edge characters standing head to shoulder, dress to lasergun alongside classic toys. This week, we’ve selected a range of toys and gifts that are available now from Smyths, ToysRUs, M&S and all good toy retailers nationwide.

Mattel

Monster High Go oli

Mega Bloks 60piece bag set €20

ope €50

All images not to scale

Mattel Barbie Rock & Royal €35

ly 80

po Mono o r b as

rsary annive

€28.

€6 k Rails

l Fisher

Matte

Wrec er Ship t s a M k ac Price Tr

26 November 2015 Gazette 23

Gazette

GIFT GUIDE MOTORING Hasbro My Little Pony Equestria Girls €24.99

Mattel Barnie Malibu Dreamhouse €150

alo book €8 M&S Gruff

Mat Pric tel Fish e g ym toddle er €80 r

al Furre pin’ o r m b Has s My Ju rF iend 72.99 € pug

otel ter H s e h Furc €28.99 bro Has Phoebe g Talkin

Hasb r Intera o Avengers ctive H u Buste r €49 lk .99

Habro Jurassic World Stomp and Strike Tyrannosaurus Rex €57.99

Habro Bop It! Star Wars R2-D2 edition game

Mattel Fisher Price Dance and Move BeatBo €55

Gazette

24 Gazette 26 November 2015

OUT&ABOUT

HEALTHYSTEPS

HEALTH

health conditions: ‘lack of reliable studies’ to support tests

Testing for food and chemical intolerances

A treatment called Lipiflow helps the meibomian glands produce more oil.

Look into preventing the causes of dry eye THE condition known as dry eye – which is an inflammation of the conjunctiva and cornea of the eye, due to inadequate tear secretion – is an uncomfortable and sometimes painful condition most often caused by over-exposure. Those most at risk ------------------------

‘Every time we blink, we moisten the eye, so by blinking less we moisten the eye less’ ------------------------

are people who spend many hours in front of the computer. Given the ever increasing numbers of people who spend long periods in front of a computer screen for work or leisure, or often both, more and more people are likely to be affected. We tend to blink maybe 7/8 times per minute, and the moment we start looking at computer screens, we tend to blink 2/3 times a minute. Every time we blink, we moisten the eye, so by blinking less we moisten the eye less. The other common causes are the likes of contact lens wear and getting older. For females, hormo-

nal changes as you approach menopause can also cause dry eye. Many medications have dry eye listed as a side effect. These would include anti-histamines, anti-hypertensives, anticholestrols, and so on. The following is a number of ways dry eye can be averted. Using lubricant eye-drops, being aware of blinking when you’re working on the computer, and using something called the 20/20/20 rule, where for every 20 minutes you take a 20 second break by looking at something 20 feet away from the computer. The wellington Eye Clinic offers a treatment call Lipiflow. Where a device is placed on the lids for 12 minutes, the device warms up over time to just above body temperature. This softens up the oils and within the Lipiflow device are little massage rollers which milk the glands and ensure that by the end of the 12 minutes the oils have been expressed out of the meibomian glands. Cost involved: Dry Eye Assessment – €100 Lipiflow Treatment – €500 per eye. For an appointment call the Wellington Eye Clinic on 01 2807873 or email info@wellingtoneyeclinic.com

 Ellen Roche Dietitian & Clinical Nutritionist at Nutri Vive

Food intolerances effect around 15% of the population and common symptoms include headaches, fatigue, tummy upset and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The triggers are often substances that naturally occur in foods (e.g. amines or fructose) or chemicals added during food processing (eg mono sodium glutamate added to ready meals or sulphites added to wine). Enzyme deficiencies such as lactase usually results in an intolerance to dairy products. IBS is a bowel condition which can cause abdominal bloating, pain, cramping, constipation and diarrhoea; these symptoms are frequently caused by normal healthy foods. The symptoms of food intolerances are usually delayed, which explains why they can be difficult to diagnose.

Food Intolerance Tests Food intolerance testing has become increasingly popular in recent years. A growing number of pharmacies in addition to complimentary therapists and private health clinics offer intolerance testing services directly to the public. These centres claim that a wide range of

Food intolerances effect around 15% of the population

health conditions such as chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, arthritis, sinusitis, skin problems, digestive issues and even obesity can be solved using such tests. The kits take a small sample of blood to check the levels of IgG antibody (immune system activity) for a range of various foods eg. shellfish, wheat and dairy products. If IgG antibody levels are elevated for particular foods, the test centres diagnose an intolerance and recommend complete exclusion from the diet to relieve symptoms. These tests cost €100€250 approximately depending upon the number of foods tested. Unfortunately the facts are that IgG intolerance tests are a complete waste of money and not worth the paper they are printed on. I have seen the printouts from vulnerable and confused clients; many repor ts which

don’t even make clinical sense eg. gluten is rated high and to be avoided, yet rye (which contains gluten) is ok!

Lack of Supportive Science The websites marketing food intolerance testing claim that there is sufficient scientific evidence to prove that these tests are warranted when a food intolerance is suspected. H av i n g e x a m i n e d these studies, many of the trials involved small numbers of people who were tested twenty years ago, therefore applications to the general population are not relevant. The leading international food allergy and intolerance institutes are currently strongly advocating against IgG food intolerance testing. There appears to be no correlation between high levels of a particular food antibody and the development of

symptoms. High levels only indicate the person has consumed a particular food in the past, the immune system has “acknowledged” this food and positive test results are to be expected in normal, healthy adults and children. Furthermore, the inappropriate use of this test only increases the likelihood of false diagnoses being made, resulting in unnecessary dietary restrictions and decreased quality of life.

Food Exclusion Trials The Irish Food Allergy and Intolerance Network (www.ifan.ie) and the Irish Nutrition and Dietetic Institute (www. indi.ie) strongly advocate against food intolerance tests because of the lack of reliable studies to support them. At present, the “gold standard” method for determining if an underlying food intolerance exists is to follow an elimination or exclu-

sion diet followed by a reintroduction challenge. The elimination a p p r o a c h p r ov i d e s sy mptom relief and subsequently helps to pin-point the culprit food(s) within two to six weeks and it’s the preferred method as recommended by health professionals, Allergy UK’s Intolerance Group and the NICE guidelines for the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome. These groups recommend guidance from a health professional such as a registered dietitian or doctor to ensure that the correct type of exclusion diet is followed in the short-term and to avoid any risk of longterm nutrient deficiency. Ellen Roche is an experienced registered dietitian with clinics located throughout Leinster. Contact the office for private consultations and corporate services (087) 680 2248 www.nutrivive. ie

26 November 2015 Gazette 25

Gazette

CINEMA

ReelReviews

lady in the van

Motors along amusingly THE closest that The Lady in The Van (Cert 12A, 104 mins) gets to anything as exciting as a car chanse is the sight of a clapped-out van parked in the driveway of a playwright’s home for year after year. Maggie Smith plays the wily vehicle owner in this low-key but entertaining tale, as Ms Shepherd becomes a part of playwright Alan Bennett’s as the years roll by – even though the van doesn’t.

As true-life crime boss James ‘Whitey’ Bolger, Johnny Depp doesn’t keep his cards close all the time – his criminality involves many associates in a wide-ranging empire

black mass: for the first time in ages, depp delivers a great role

A great study of criminality

CHRONICLING the rise and fall of notorious South Brooklyn crime boss James ‘W hitey’ Bulger, Black Mass (Cert 15A, 123 mins) rings together a stellar cast to tell a story of crooked cops, hardened criminals, and insidious political corruption. As the head of an Irish mob crew known as the Winter Hill Gang, Bulger rose to infamy through the ’70s and ’80s, piling up a wealth of charges including extortion, narcotics distribution, racketeering, and murder. He also claims to have shipped more than one million dollars’ worth of weapons across the Atlantic to support the IRA. Furthermore, he racked up the litany of charges while under the watch of the FBI, with

 Dave phillips

whom he was co-operating against a common enemy – the Italian mafia families who controlled much of the black market in Brooklyn. Yet, despite being one of the America’s most wanted fugitives (trumped only by Osama Bin Laden), ‘Whitey’ Bulger has a fairly low profile outside of the United States. Most of us will have been unwittingly introduced to Bulger through Scorcese’s The Departed – which drew heavily on Whitey’s story for Jack Nicholson’s character.

It seems fitting then that when Johnny Depp steps into the lead role as Bulger in Black Mass, he brings a distinctly Nicholson-like energy with him. It is safe to say that much of the buzz built up around Black Mass is connected to Depp’s transformative performance. With thinning white hair combed tight against a balding dome and haunting dead-blue eyes, the actor is almost unrecognisable. It is apt casting, too, given Depp’s recent propensity for familyfriendly and much more superficial characters. The pairing of the chillingly off-kilter looks with the grisly and sociopathic character results in a monster that will stay in the

viewer’s mind long after the image fades from the screen. Depp’s metamorphosis oozes the kind of ghoulishness that we don’t see enough of in cinema. Part of bringing such a strong lead character to life involves surrounding him with a much less grotesque cast. Joel Edgerton (Zero Dark Thirty) plays John Connolly, a childhood friend of Bulger who joins the FBI. While operating under the guise of justice, Connolly is often more concerned with his own career, and agrees to turn a blind eye to Bulger’s criminal ventures in return for assistance making a case against the Mafia. Benedict Cumberbatch also stars as

Billy Bulger, the more respectable sibling, who served for 18 years as president of the Massachusetts Senate while his older brother continued to serve up corpse after corpse. No doubt that Black Mass belongs to Depp and Edgerton, but there are great smaller parts studded throughout, including appearances from Kevin Bacon, Adam Scott, and Dakota Johnson – the latter of whom provides the most memorable scene in the film. The story told in Black Mass is one massive tangled web of deception and exploitation, and director Scott Cooper (Crazy Heart) is happy to revel in it. Cooper delivers a wonderfully menacing and claustrophobic feel

through shots so close we can see the pores, stained teeth and bloodstains in grim detail. Cooper’s vision is so bleak though that, in a way, it dulls the film. We move across a decade of Bulger’s life in a disparate fashion. There is no sense of crescendo, no righteous corruptionbusting cop to provide the narrative drive, there is actually nobody to root for, and so there is no Hollywood ending. More of a sociopathic character study than a traditional mob drama, the narrative sloppily unfolds like an onion rotted to the core. With more hits than misses, Black Mass remains an engaging, beautifully-shot, and superbly acted film.

Verdict: 7/10

brooklyn

A tale worth visiting SAOIRSE Ronan impresses in Brooklyn (Cert 12A, 112 mins), with its tale of a young emigre in 1950s American – guess where – finding her life taking an unexpected path going down well with audiences on both sides of the Atlantic. With Emory Cohen and Domnhall Gleeson providing strong supporting roles as would-be suitors, it’s a well-shot film that dials down Oirish overtones.

burnt

Still a bit of a stinker BRADLEY Cooper’s latest hasn’t gone down well with critics, with Burnt (Cert 15A, 101 mins) getting sliced to pieces faster than a cake made by his troubled-butbrilliant-chef character. As a character who rides around town on a big motorcycle, wears leather jackets, and struggles with his inner demons – all while trying to kickstart his stalled career – the film is something of a mess.

26 BLANCH GAZETTE 26 November 2015

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We, Teagasc intend to apply for Planning Permission for development at this site Teagasc, Ashtown Food Research Centre, Ashtown, Dublin 15.The development will consist of the construction of new polytunnel building, and new building design for previously granted mushroom building (granted under application reference FW12A/0069) and all associated ancillary site works, services and ancillary accommodation.The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. 25555

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28 gazette 26 November 2015

SPORT

FastSport Search for new paralympic soccer stars: The Republic of Ireland Paralympic squad are searching for the next national hero as they begin preparations for the 2016 Paralympics in Brazil. After finishing sixth in the Cerebral Palsy World Cup, the squad are offering a fantastic opportunity for the best players around the country with cerebral palsy, acquired brain injury, or those who have suffered a stroke to represent Ireland. The FAI are partnering with Paralympics Ireland in this new campaign ahead of a trial day at the FAI national training centre on Saturday, December 12 at 12 noon. Any players aged between 16 and 30-years-old, who have any of the aforementioned impairments, are eligible to try out for the team. More informations can be found at http://www.fai.ie/ irelands-next-paralympic-football-star/ the-campaign.

cross country: raheny man storms to inter clubs national title

Clohisey cleans up in Santry  sport@dublingazette.com

MICK Clohisey, from Raheny Shamrocks, reigned supreme at the GloHealth inter-club cross-country championships in Santry Demesne. A memorable day of competition saw big fields

and a large spectator crowd that needn’t have worried about the after effects of storm Barney. A sea of colour dotted Santry Demesne with clubs from all over the country out in force with tents and tear-drop flags adding an extra dimen-

sion to the atmosphere created by Fintan Reilly and Nick Davis as the two main men on the microphone. The senior women’s 8,000m race was one that whetted the appetite with a top-class field and with the uncertainty

Raheny’s Mick Clohisey celebrating his third title. Picture: Cody Glenn/Sportsfile

Mick Clohisey on the trail at Santry Demesne

of the form of Fionnuala McCormack. The start of the race was a cagey affair with the diminutive McCormack nestled in the leading pack led by the effervescent Lizzie Lee (Leevale). Lee tried to take on McCormack but the the teak tough Wicklow woman was untouchable building an insurmountable lead. Lee hung on gamely for second leading her club to a maiden team title with the surprise package Caroline Crowley (Crusaders) coming through for third. Dundrum South Dublin were second in the team race with Raheny Shamrocks third. Clohisey followed up as

an impressive winner of the men’s 10,000m with a front-running performance from the gun ahead of Metro St Brigid’s John Coghlan in second and Paul Pollock (Annadale Striders) in third. Leevale missed out on the team title by a single point to Clonliffe Harriers, 47 to 48, with Raheny narrowly behind on 51. It was Clohisey’s third time to win the inter-clubs’ crown and he is now looking forward to competing in the European cross-country championships where his rivals will become his teammates. “You don’t really think about these things,” he said referring to his third inter-clubs’ title. “You just move on to the next thing when you’re on form. It is

a good achievement and it was a good race out there today. I wasn’t expecting to be out in the lead so early on my own so it it was a question of keeping my concentration. “I’m looking forward to wearing the Irish vest with pride now at the Europeans and putting in a good performance. We were all rivals today but I’m looking forward to us competing as team mates in France.” Hope Saunders (Clonliffe Harriers) and Kevin Mulcaire (Ennis Track Club) were impressive winners of the junior women’s 4,000m and junior men’s 6,000m respectively. DSD women and Clonliffe Harriers men won the junior team titles.

Duke and Pinder power UCD to win over Harlequins  sport@dublingazette.com

UCD’s Deirdre Duke gets away from Cork Harlequins’ Yvonne O’Byrne. Picture: Adrian Boehm

SECOND-half goals from Gillian Pinder and Deirdre Duke saw UCD land their third win of the women’s EY Hockey League season last Sunday, beating Cork Harlequins 2-0 to keep them in the shake-up for the playoff places. UCD started the stronger of the two teams with Aisling Naughton and Sorcha Clarke creating chances down the lefthand side after good persistence from Leah Ewart. They also had two corners but

neither were converted. Quins duly grew into the game after an intial slow start, building from the back through Cliodhna Sargent who caused UCD problems with the long ball. Olivia Roycroft came closest sending a deflection flying by the back post from a Sargent crash ball. Into the second half, UCD remained patient in their build up play against a strong Quins’ defence that was proving difficult to break down. Gillian Pinder broke the deadlock with a thunderbolt into the bottom

corner after a brilliant five pass exchange that opened up the top of the circle for Pinder. The fourth quarter started with Quins looking to get an equaliser but they found it difficult to get anything out of a disciplined UCD defence. The Cork side earned their first penalty corner of the game with four minutes to go which Cliodhna Sargeant looked to strike home off a switch but it was brilliantly ran down by Naughton. Deirdre Duke put the game away a minute later sliding in at

the back post to put away a good team move. It was a fine riposte from UCD on a double-weekend as they lost 4-1 a day earlier to a resurgent Pegasus side in Belfast. Booterstown side Hermes continued their brilliant form in the league with a pair of wins over two of their nearest rivals, seeing off Harlequins 3-0 on Saturday and then beat second placed Ulster Elks 3-1 on Sunday. Anna O’Flanagan scored three times over the weekend to extend her scoring tally to 18 goals in eight games.

26 November 2015 gazette 29

Gazette

Peat adds another Irish string to incredible bow Following spells with the Irish basketball team and the Dublin footballers, Dubliner Lindsay Peat tells JAMES HENDICOTT about her rugby debut LINDSAY PEAT - an All-Ireland winning footballer and former co-captain of the Irish international basketball team - added international rugby to her considerable sporting CV over the weekend. Peat was called up to the Ireland Women’s squad to face England at Harlequin’s London

ground The Stoop last week, named on the bench as the women played their first autumn international. Peat - who plays her rugby with Railway Union in Sandymount - was named on the bench for Ireland, joining the fray in the final quarter of the game to earn her debut cap.

Amazingly, Peat only joined Railway Union (her first rugby club) in the early summer, after the club - that’s only three years old when it comes to the women’s game - talked her into turning out through friends who were already involved. She quickly became hooked: “There are

Lindsay Peat in Dublin ladies football action. Picture: GAAPics.com

huge depths to Irish rugby, and a lot of injuries right now,” Peat told GazetteSport, modestly playing down her selection. “It never even entered my mind that I might be called up, and I feel very lucky. “I had been trying to wind down when the call came, trying to avoid getting injured and to experience playing for my club. “I’ve been learning the tactical side,” she adds. “There are a few crossovers from GAA and from basketball. Tactically, the game mirrors basketball, but like football you’re always trying to find space, to work to create openings. It took me a long time to stop trying to run off someone’s shoulder and to come more deep.” Before taking up rugby, Peat had stepped away from GAA back in May, after finishing her degree. She had studied

alongside a full-time job and multiple evenings of training across several sports, leaving “more often than not, only Sunday evenings free.” “Looking back, I love basketball and football equally,” she explains. “It’s like trying to choose between your children. Basketball was the sport that I first put a lot of work into, getting to the top level, playing in the national league and then getting to the international set up. “It’s the foundation, so it’ll always have a very special place.” Rugby is the new love, though, and Peat’s just had her first international taste. An experimental Irish side that included nine new caps lost to a last minute maul from a line out, with England barging over the line with two minutes left on the clock for an 8-3 win.

Ireland had equalised through a penalty in an extremely low-scoring game, making the game 3-3 with seven minutes left on the clock. “The game was played in horrible conditions that didn’t really suit us,” Peat tells us, “but it was really great to get that experience. There are two Ireland training camps coming up in December, where the squad train like professionals. “I feel very, very lucky to be involved, and my next aim is to keep getting called up to camps. We’ll see where things go from there. “I’m grateful to Tom Tierney [Ireland women’s rugby manager] for giving me a shot.” And why the multisport success? “There’s something for everyone that just makes them feel alive,” Peat concludes. “For me, that’s sport. I just try to take up things that I enjoy.”

FastSport Smyth signed up as academy manager: FORMER St Mary’s and Blackrock College coach Peter Smyth has taken up the role of Academy Manager at Leinster. As a player Peter has represented both Ireland and Leinster at A, U21 and Schools level. He coached St Mary’s College RFC to Ulster Bank League success in 2012 and also coached Blackrock College to four schools senior cup and two junior cups. Smyth’s role as Leinster Rugby Academy Manager will see him oversee the delivery of the academy and sub-academy programmes as well as supporting the national talent and the regional development squad programmes. He will be responsible for the development and progression of players for the professional game in Ireland and the management of talent identification. Speaking about the new job, he said: “There is huge potential in the underage system in Leinster across schools and clubs and I am excited to be in a position to help nurture that talent into future Ireland players.”

Gazette

30 BLANCH gazette 26 November 2015

SPORT

FastSport

soccer: clonsilla club’s remarkable form continues in lsl

Castleknock Under-12A through in Hillary Cup CASTLEKNOCK Celtic’s DDSL Under-12A side made it safely through to the first round proper of the Hillary Cup on Saturday, defeating Killester United 3-2 in extra time at Maypark. Killester were recent recruits to the Under12A league and Celtic knew they were in for a stern test as the home side had started with a 100% record in the league, winning four out of four so far. On a cold, clear November afternoon, Celtic battled hard throughout the first half which was a tight, sometimes scrappy affair. Killester had the better of the chances and Celtic keeper and captain for the day, Konrad Fecowicz, was the busier of the two keepers. Clear chances were thin on the ground and the half ended 0-0. In the second half, Celtic played the better football as space opened up allowing the midfielders to get control of the match. Celtic were rewarded when Eryk Fecowicz broke free on the right, advancing into the box and delivering an assured finish to put the visitors one up. Killester upped their game and pressed for the equaliser allowing Celtic to snatch a second somewhat against the run of play. A long kick out from Konrad Fecowicz was met by Cillian Hegarty who back-heeled the ball, on the turn, past the defence and the oncoming keeper. A few minutes later Cillian Hegarty was unlucky not to close out the game with a third when he cleverly lobbed the keeper but the ball came back off the post. Killester threw everything at Celtic as they had nothing to lose, and were rewarded when they pulled one back. Their tails up, Killester pressed again and got the equaliser which, on the balance of play, was probably deserved. A tight closing couple of minutes failed to produce a winning goal so into extra time it was. The winner came somewhat unfortunately for Killester, an own goal by the United centre half to win it for Celtic when penalties loomed - the unlucky Killester defender poked the ball back and beyond his keeper when under pressure from Cillian Hegarty on the edge of the box.

St Mochta’s have plenty of reasons to celebrate after they moved top of the LSL Sunday Senior

O’Reilly powers Saints to top lsl sunday senior Killester United St Mochta’s  sport@dublingazette.com

1 3

ST MOCHTA’S regained top spot in the Leinster Senior League with a 3-1 win at Killester United on Sunday morning that will send a serious statement to their rivals in the Sunday Senior. Goals from Niall O’Reilly and David Somers secured the win against a Killester side that were very much on the rise. It was the home side that carved out the first real chance of the game after 20 minutes when a

clever pull-back flashed across the box but the Killester front man shot wide. In a game featuring two sides very much on form in the league, the first goal was always going to be crucial and it was the Saints who got it on 22 minutes albeit from the penalty spot. United keeper Evan Whelan made a clever save to deny Somers but the Mochta’s striker followed up and his rebound was heading in before Killester defender Mick Kelly blocked the ball with his hand. Kelly was sent off before O’Reilly stepped

pulling together John Giles set to visit Verona for campaign verona fc will host an evening with Ireland legend Johnny Giles at their clubhouse on Friday, November 27, at 8pm. Tickets, priced at €20 and limited to 100, are in aid of the club’s All Weather, Pull Together campaign, which hopes to raise funds to install an all weather pitch for the use of both the club and community. Tickets can be ordered via the website veronafc.yourclub.ie, or by calling 01 820 8160.

up and beat Whelan from 12 yards. The goal added confidence to Brian McCarthy’s troops who started to control the game for most of what was left of the first half. Whelan had to pull off a strong save to deny Somers doubling the Saints’ lead. The striker pounced on a tame back-header from a Killester centrehalf but Whelan sprinted out from his goal and thwarted the Mochta’s man. On 34 minutes, Mochta’s had their second and it was O’Reilly who grabbed his second of the day. After some tidy

build-up play, O’Reilly broke through the United backline and calmly finished past Whelan. Gareth Cooney, who was outstanding, provided the assist which opened up the backline allowing O’Reilly to race in. On 67 minutes, Killester had a great chance to pull one back but for a brilliant stop by Tadhg Murphy. Four minutes later, the Hadden Park side’s task was made even more difficult when they were reduced to nine men for the final 20 minutes. After playing well despite conceding twice, Killester keeper Whelan was dismissed for bringing down

John Reilly as the Saints broke on the counter. Despite being reduced to nine, Killester battled on and pulled one back through with about 15 minutes left to play. Any thoughts of a heroic comeback were killed on 85 minutes however when Somers grabbed his ninth of the season with a neat finish from a Reilly cross. Mochta’s are now unbeaten in seven in the league, with just one defeat all season and as we near the mid-way point in the campaign, the newly promoted D15 side are looking more and more like genuine title contenders.

26 November 2015 BLANCH gazette 31

Gazette

special visitor

GAA Hero Brogan trains St Pat’s Under-13 side

Club Noticeboard st brigid’s THE St Brigid’s GAA AGM will take place

plunkett’s Bernard Brogan trained with

the U-13s from St Pat’s Donabate in Ballymastone last week, bringing along Sam Maguire for the evening. It was part of his role as a SuperValu ambassador as he delivered a special training session and O’Neill’s kit as part of the #MyGAAHero competition which ran throughout the summer. Picture: Morgan Treacy/Inpho

football: local clubs push on at under-21 level

on Thursday. This week’s draw is in

in Russell Park on Sunday, December

Russell Park on Thursday, Novem-

13 at 7.30pm.

ber 26 with our €15,000 jackpot still in

Congratulations to our U-21 foot-

place. Our reserve is now €11,200. See

ballers who are through to the cham-

the club website to see were you one of

pionship semi-final after a great win

the 10 lucky dip winners.

over Whitehall Colmcille on Saturday

St Brigid’s/Spleodar Irish club runs

and to our minor B footballers who

on Thursdays in the club hall from

beat St Maur’s in their championship

7-9pm. Open for all teenagers between

semi-final on Sunday. They will now

12-18, the cost is €3 per week. A great

play Kilmacud Crokes in the final.

opportunity to practise Irish for

The St Brigid’s nursery runs every

important exams and for enjoyment.

Saturday in Russell Park from 9.30 to

More information is available on the

11am. We welcome all four- to seven-

club website.

year-olds in the Castleknock and

The full range of St Brigid’s GAA gear

Blanchardstown area and new mem-

is available on our online shop on the

bers and families are always welcome.

club website.

For further information and queries, contact David on 085 8340169. There was no lotto jackpot winner

For up-to-date St Brigid’s GAA fixtures and results visit our website www.stbrigidsgaa.com.

castleknock MIGHTY win for our second adult football team in the AFL6 promotion playoff final against a gallant Fingallians. Congrats to all the management and

Brigid’s, Knock and Plunkett’s in semis

under-21b fc St Brigid’s 3-11 Whitehall Colmcilles 2-11  sport@dublingazette.com

ST BRIGID’S, Castleknock and St Oliver Plunkett’s/Eoghan Ruadh are all building toward an epic local crescendo with all three through to the semifinals of the Under-21B football championship. Brigid’s advanced to their semi-final thanks to an impressive quarterfinal win over Whitehall Colmcilles on a 3-11 to 2-11 scoreline. Whitehall Colmcilles came into the game with

a fine win under their belt against St Jude’s while Brigid’s got past the hurdle of Clontarf. Cormac Costello was the danger man. However, from the throw-in, Brigid’s showed excellent team work, stamina and determination and kept Costello to one point from play at half time. Against the wind in the second half, Brigid’s were exceptional in defence and when the ball broke they were far more likely to score. With 13 minutes to go, the Russell Park men were eight points up but

two quick, wind-assisted, goals reduced the deficit to two points, resulting in a nail-biting finish. However, B rigid’s proved to be the more composed, and more determined team, and after a tense few minutes, won by three points. One of the features of the Brigid’s panel was the inclusion of three sets of brothers – Oisin and Kevin Callaghan, Conor and Donal Timoney and Darragh and James Henry. They will play their semi-final on Saturday, December 5. Castleknock’s route to the semi-finals saw them

initially given a walkover by Skerries Harps in their opening round. And they followed up with a hard fought 2-12 to 1-12 win over Naomh Mearnog under lights in Somerton Park in the quarter-finals in midweek. The side is managed by Conor Prunty and Shane Boland, themselves both only just outside the age group for this competition. Plunkett’s got by Ballymun Kickhams and Te m p l e o g u e S y n g e Street in their draw to see them advance to the final four.

The club is now looking for applications to manage and coach our senior AFL1 team in 2016.

players and a sincere thank you for all

Please apply to Kevin McCambridge

their efforts and commitment. Three

on 086 388 6608 or Lisa at secretary@

promotions from the adult footballers

castleknock.net or 086 102 2296.

this year is some achievement.

St Brigid’s Oisin and Kevin Callaghan, Conor and Donal Timoney and Darragh and James Henry.

their help and hospitality.

The club nursery (kindly sponsored

Hard luck to our minor camogie

by Tigers after SchoolCare) this Sat-

team who lost out to Lucan in the

urday and every Saturday morning at

championship.

Tir na nOg (beside Castleknock Com-

Strictly Castleknock was a resound-

munity College) from 10am-11.30am.

ing success and would not have been

All new players (aged four and

so without the unbelievable work of

upwards) and families welcome -

the committee, the dedication of the

for further info contact Jason (086

dancers, the support from spon-

3459089) or Louise (085 1534270).

sors and those who volunteered and attended on the night.

2016 Castleknock Club Calendars only €5 are now available and we need

Special mention to our VIP judges

members to support this innovative

Joan Burton TD and Leo Varadkar TD

by making sure every household has

and special thanks to our main spon-

one.

sors Copper Face Jacks and The Carpenter. Many thanks to Westmanstown for

The Castleknock club shop is open every Saturday morning from 10-11.30am at the nursery in CCC.

Naomh Peregrine WELL done to the U-14 girls on winning

information.

their Division 3 camogie league with

St Peregrine’s are running a Christ-

a thoroughly deserved win against

mas craft fair on Sunday, November

Naomh Maur’s. The girls and mentors

29 and Sunday, December 13 from

showed great resilience and depth of

12-5pm.

character to win the league in spite of

Tables cost €25 to book a table,

some trying circumstances leading up

please contact Aileen (087 9458285) or

to the playoff final.

Michelle (086 1591459).

This completed a magnificent tre-

The club shop has a new line of St

ble of the camogie Feile, championship

Peregrine’s sportswear. For an order

and league in what has been the per-

form, please email Dermot at shop.

fect year for the team.

stperegrine@gmail.com. All Christmas

The ladies senior team are back

orders must be placed by November

training with a new manager, new and

27. Shop opening hours are Monday

previous players welcome. Check their

at 6-7pm, Wednesday at 6.30-7.30pm,

Facebook and Twitter pages for more

Saturday 10.30am to 12 noon.

GazetteSPORT all of your blanch sports coverage from page 28-31

local showdown: St Brigid’s, Castleknock and St Oliver Plunkett’s/Eoghan Ruadh in U-21 semis P31

nov 26 - dec 2, 2015

master of all trades: Lindsay Peat adds rugby to list of elite sports P29

Metro St Brigid’s John Coghlan

D15 stars shine in Santry MSB’s John Coghlan earns place in Irish squad for Europeans while David Flynn claims team gold with Clonliffe Harriers at inter clubs

 sport@dublingazette.com

METRO St Brigid’s John Coghlan earned a place in the Irish men’s senior team for the European Cross Country Championships with a fine run at last weekend’s national championships at Santry. He came in second behind Raheny Shamrocks’ Mick Clohisey who was an impressive winner of the 10,000m race, racing clear from the gun. Coghlan ended up 16 seconds behind threetime champion Clohisey, holding off the challenge of Annadale Striders Paul Pollock to earn his place on the podium and make himself part of the six-man Irish team that will contest

the Europeans on December 13 in Hyeres in France. And Coghlan’s performance drew praise from Athletics Ireland high performance director Kevin Ankrom who said: “John posted a particularly impressive performance also and shows athletes are stepping up to the mark.” Indeed, it was an impressive showing amid a field that also features Sergiu Ciobanu who, along with Pollock, has already posted an Olympic marathon qualifying time. Another local runner to impress was David Flynn who finished in eighth place overall and seventh Irishman, edging out Brian Maher, Andrew Connick and Tim O’Donoghue in a battle for the places.

It came just a few days after the steeplechase specialist returned from a three-month training camp at Mammoth Lakes in California. There, he took part in high altitude training with a professional group by Andrew and Deena Kastor, a bronze medallist at the Athens Olympics marathon. Flynn’s performance at Santry has placed him as first reserve for the Europeans, a position that he was reasonably happy with, especially as his Clonliffe Harriers club ended up taking the team title. “The field on Sunday was the best field in years as, for the first time they put the national inter clubs together with the Euro trials, with six athletes with the Olympic marathon standard

in the race.” Indeed, Ciaran O’Lionard was also in the field and finished in 13th place. For Clohisey, it was his third time to win the Inter Clubs crown and he is now looking forward to competing in the European Cross Country Championships where his rivals will become his teammates. “It is a good achievement and it was a good race out there. “I’m looking forward to wearing the Irish vest with pride now at the Europeans and putting in a good performance. “We were all rivals today but I’m looking forward to us competing as team mates in France.”