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INSIDE: From Twelve Angry Men to gazillions of smiles, Bord Gais Energy Theatre marks five years P12

cracking times: The Gazette guide to family activities at Easter P14-15

A moving night: Dancing to help mark diversity Football:

Kilkenny getting back on track after injury woe Page 32

THE Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) is celebrating International Night at the Mansion House on Friday, as part of its cultural diversity month. RCSI students (from front to back) Shari Seepaul (Trinidad and Tobago), Khairunnisa And Laglis (Malaysia), Karishma Roopchand (Trinidad and Tobago) , Adrielle Pierre (Trinidad and Tobago) and Arujunan Santhira (Singapore) got in some practice dance steps outside the college ahead of the night, which will celebrate the student body’s diversity.

Picture: Maxwell Photography

Basketball: Lindsay Peat bound for Luxembourg Page 28

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ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES....................... 8 DUBLIN LIFE....................11 OUT&ABOUT...................17 CLASSIFIEDS.................26 SPORT............................28

Europe to scrutinise State tenants’ rights Landmark collective complaint on sub standard housing to be investigated

 laura webb

A COLLECTIVE complaint on sub-standard housing conditions across 20 local authority housing estates in Ireland, including estates in Dublin, has been deemed admissible

for further investigation by the European Committee of Social Rights. The landmark collective complaint is the result of five years of evidence gathered across 20 communities, including Bluebell, Dolphin House and Ballymun.

It alleges that issues such as poor building standards and failed regeneration of housing estates violates key articles of the Revised European Standards, which Ireland signed up to in 2000.

Dr Padraic Kenna, head of

the Centre for Housing Law at NUI, Galway, who assisted tenants in the complaint, said it is ironic the “same standards expected for private tenants are not applied on behalf of the State’s own tenants”.

Full Story on Page 4

2 dublin city gazette 26 March 2015

Liffey cycle Public has say on four bike route possibilities

Council puts the wheels in motion DUBLIN city is upping its cycling game with proposals to install a new cycle route to run along the Liffey quays.

The Liffey Corridor cycle route proposal from Dublin City Council will run from the Phoenix Park to the 3 Arena in the Docklands.

Four different options are being considered; three with two -way routes along the north quays and one with one way route on each side of the Liffey.

The four options are: Option 1: A two-way route along the north quays. This would not

 laura webb lwebb@dublingazette.com

involve a reduction in traffic lanes but a new section of boardwalk would be needed between Arran and Ellis Quay.

Option 2: A two-way route on the north quays with buses re-routed to a new public transport corridor on Benburb Street (between Heuston Station and Ellis Quay) Option 3: A two-way

north quays route with buses rerouted to the north of the Croppy Acre which would be extended down towards the Liffey Option 4: A one-way route on each side of the Liffey. The cycle tracks would be alongside the buildings and bus and general traffic would not be effected Michael Phillips, director of Traffic with Dublin City Council, said off-road cycle routes can play an “important role” in encouraging people to take up cycling and “also gives commuters more options when they

decide how they want to travel to work”.

Cllr Dermot Lacey (Lab) is encouraging people to have their say on the proposal and said the project was “really positive” and “exciting”.

“It will probably have to be tweaked a lot but the idea of having safe and pleasant cycle routes through and around the city is very good for Dublin, for Dubliners and for visitors alike.

“A more pleasant, accessible and safe city is also good for business and trade. The Liffey cycleway will complement those proposed for the Royal Canal and the Dodder Linear cycle route,” he said.

Independent Cllr Gary Gannon is also in favour of a more “cycle friendly city” and said this with a mix of better safe locking facilities within the city would be a great benefit for those choosing to travel on two wheels.

“We have an issue with bikes being stolen, so if we can mix this proposal with safe locking facili-

The Liffey Corridor cycle route proposal from Dublin City Council will run from the Phoenix Park to the 3 Arena in the Docklands. Option 1 (above) is two-way route along the north quays.

ties to insure people who cycle into the city are safe in the knowledge that their bicycle is safe once they leave it somewhere, I think it would work fantastically.

He said the council was “doing quite well” in getting the public more engaged with planning proposals and initiatives.

“It is sometimes difficult to get your head around change, but I think a

city that is more cycling friendly would be a better city for everybody.”

The full report is available to view online on the council’s cycle website: www.cycledublin.ie The public and interested parties can view all four options on this site and pick their preferred route.

People can also state whether they support the proposal or not. This

can also be done at Dublin City Council’s Civic Offices on Wood Quay, Dublin 8 and at the Central (Ilac) Library and Dublin City Library and Archive, 138-144 Pearse Street.

Dublin City Council will use this feedback to select a preferred route option for the cycle route following statutory consultation and planning processes.

Views on litter prevention sought DUBLIN City Council is talking rubbish and wants citizens of the capital to speak their minds on what they think of litter in the city for its Draft Litter Management Plan.

Anyone with views on key litter issues in the city, what should be done to tackle illegal dumping, dog fouling or abuse of

litter bins is being asked to get in touch and air their opinions.

The council is developing a new Litter Management Plan 2016-2018 and wants interested groups such as resident associations, business groups and locals to participate before Tuesday March 31.

Brian Hanney from the Waste Management

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

Division says: “Dublin City Council has devoted considerable resources towards tackling the litter problem in recent years and we acknowledge that we cannot make progress on litter without the support of communities, business and people all over the city and suburbs. Our litter management plan sets out our priorities for litter and street cleaning for the next few years and we are asking the public to help us decide what these should be.”

Central to the new plan include are street cleaning, dumping, litter bins,

dog fouling, graffiti and illegal posters. The existing plan can be viewed on the Dublin City Council website at http://bit.ly/ LitterMgtPlan2008 Submissions can be made in email or in writing before 5pm on Tuesday March 31 2015.

Email: littermanagementplan@dublincity. ie or post submissions to: Executive Manager, Dublin City Council, Wa s t e M a n a g e m e n t Services, Environment a n d Tr a n s p o r t a t i o n Department, 68/70 Marrowbone Lane, Dublin 8

26 March 2015 dublin city gazette 3

Ranelagh

tourism: focus on Waterway potential

Royal Canal a ‘poor cousin’ to the Grand  laura webb

A DUBLIN TD is claiming Waterways Ireland is not allowing the Royal Canal to reach its full potential of becoming a tourist and local attraction, describing it as a “poor cousin of the Grand Canal”.

According to Deputy Maureen O’Sullivan (Ind), more investment needs to be put into the Royal Canal to enhance its usage. She met boat owners who agree there is much opportunity for further mooring, boat trips, tourism and general local enjoyment of a canal that has been the “poor cousin of the Grand Canal”.

“There is huge potential for barge and boat use on the Royal Canal. Especially as potential links with the Grand Canal and

the Shannon are not realised at the minute. I would hope to see progress on this in the future in conjunction with Waterways Ireland similar to Amsterdam and Bruges.”

She said Waterways Ireland is “missing out” on a great deal of potential by not opening up the Royal Canal to use to a greater extent.

Waterways Ireland said it has invested “significant resources” in the development and restoration of the inland waterways in general and the Royal Canal in particular.

“Navigation to the canal was restored, integrated facilities for boating were developed and extensive works took place on the development of ancillary products.”

It is also working

closely with Failte Ireland, the NRA (National Roads Authority), the NTA (National Transport Authority) and a number of local authorities in developing a multiactivity recreational and tourism offering utilising the existing towpath and waterway infrastructure.

“Waterways Ireland has also undertaken two product development studies which include the Royal Canal… these are being implemented through a range of stakeholders and State agencies in partnership led by Waterways Ireland.

“In addition [Waterways] supports a range of events on the Royal Canal including in 2015, Phizzfest and the Docklands Summer Festival,” the statement said.

Cafe to bring new jobs

Facing a work of art: Texaco contest showcases children’s artistic talents BRONAGH Carron, marketing manager with Valero Ireland, had a striking Dublin city entry to hand at the recent media reception for the closure of the 61st annual Texaco Children’s Art Competition.

Ciadan Hennessy, a student at St Conleth’s College, Ballsbridge, submitted Freak 2015, with his colourful entry being one of the many terrific pieces submitted for the popular contest. Judging is now under way before the winners will be announced in April, with the award ceremony to be held in May.

There will be a jobs boost for Ranelagh with the opening of Butlers Chocolate Cafe in the heart of the village this March 28.

The Ranelagh opening marks the 18th Butlers cafe in Ireland. The outlet brings seven new jobs to the area.

Opening just in time for Easter, it will have a state-of-the-art fit-out and window seating available for customers, where they can enjoy hot beverages and artisan sweet treats.

Michelle McBride, retail director, is looking forward to “welcoming new and existing customers” in their first neighbourhood location in Ranelagh.

Butlers Chocolate Cafe is situated at 61 Ranelagh Road.

4 dublin city gazette 26 March 2015

don’sdublin

landmark Coalition has till May to respond facilities: anglesea road

Dunsink Observatory has been looking to the skies since 1785 Dunsink Observatory was one of those places in Dublin that I knew about, but had never visited. So it was a real treat to be shown around the historic building by Prof Luke Drury (Dublin Institute for Advanced Studies – DIAS) whose wealth of knowledge and anecdotes made for a most enjoyable and informative experience.

The observatory, built in 1785, was financed by funds from the will of Provost Francis Andrews of Trinity College, who wanted the college to have, for the first time, the facility to study astronomical science. Richard Myers designed it, and the original plans that called for two Palladian-style wings, were never completed due to financial restraints.

As such, the building you see today is notable for its lack of ornamentation and is appealing, nevertheless, to a modern architectural aesthetic.

Although no major discoveries were made at the observatory, it was made famous by Sir William Rowan Hamilton (1805-1865) who was appointed professor of astronomy and director of Dunsink in 1827, while he was still an undergraduate. He was Ireland’s greatest mathematician and his work on the foundations of mechanics underpins large areas of modern physics.

The South Dome was erected in 1865 and the Grubb telescope is impressive, even after 150 years. Grubb was a firm based in Rathmines and it exported telescopes all over the world until the early 20th century.

Dunsink provided the correct time for Dublin and you can see the original clocks and other equipment inside the main building. And, not surprisingly, “Dunsink time” is mentioned in James Joyce’s Ulysses.

The State bought the observatory in 1947 and it is now part of the School of Cosmic Physics in DIAS. Today the observatory is used for conferences, meetings and during the winter (Oct-Mar) for open nights when visitors can view celestial bodies (weather permitting!) through the Grubb telescope. Special family events are often held where parents and children can meet an astronomer and explore the night sky.

Don Cameron

www.donsdublin.wordpress.com

Toilets to take on new identity  laura webb

Local authority tenants say they are living with damp, mould, sewerage, poor maintenance and pyrite

Europe to consider housing complaint  Laura Webb

A collective complaint on sub-standard housing conditions across 20 local authority housing estates across Ireland including estates in Dublin, has been deemed admissible for further investigation by the European Committee of Social Rights.

The landmark collective complaint was lodged in July 2014 and results from five years of evidence gathered across 20 communities. In Dublin these were Bluebell, Dolphin House, Ballymun, Cherry Orchard, O’Devaney Gardens and Charlemont Street.

It alleges that issues such as poor building standards and failed regeneration of housing estates violates key articles of the Revised European Standards, which Ireland signed up to in 2000.

The European Committee of Social Rights response was made public earlier this week after adopting its decision on March 17. Local authority housing estate tenants were assisted in compiling the complaint by agencies including Community Action Network and The Centre for Housing Law, Rights and Policy at NUI Galway.

Earlier this week, tenants spoke of living with

Law, Rights and Policy at the School of Law at NUI, Galway said it was ironic the “same standards expected for private tenants are not applied on behalf of the State’s own tenants”.

Government has until May 28 to make a written submission on the merits of the complaint.

Cllr Tina McVeigh (PBP) said this was a welcome development as such housing issues arise “constantly” in the council. She said funding from the Government was needed to tackle the problem.

Dublin City Council was not in a position to comment at this time.

Clare’s Wish hosts Clontarf wedding fair  Laura Webb

The Dunsink Observatory was built in 1785

dampness, mould, sewerage, poor maintenance and pyrite.

Debbie Mulhall, a resident of Dolphin House Estate, one of the country’s oldest local authority estates, and one of the few estates in the country earmarked for regeneration said: “The timeframe for regeneration is slipping drastically. It is already well over 18 months behind time and at this rate it could be years before it really happens.

In the meantime, tenants continue to live in conditions that we allege are unacceptable, unhealthy and uninhabitable.”

Dr Padraic Kenna, head of the Centre for Housing

THE demolition of public toilets at Anglesea Road could turn into a community facility, craft centre or tea room if the area is redeveloped.

Last year the toilets were demolished and replaced with a flood wall capable of taking a two storey building as a future development as part of the Dodder Flood Alleviation Project.

According to a council report, the site is located in a Z9 zone with the objective to preserve, provide and improve recreational amenity, open space and green networks.

“In terms of development potential, the Z9 zoning only allows for uses associated with amenity and recreational open space.

“In terms of structures, consideration could be given to a community facility, craft centre, tea room or a cultural facility,” the report said.

The report followed a motion from Cllr Dermot Lacey (Lab) asking what options are, or will be, considered for future development at the site.

A CHARITY wedding fair is taking place at Clontarf Castle Hotel this April in aid of Clare’s Wish Foundation.

Over 40 wedding suppliers are expected to descend on north Dublin for the wedding fair on April 12 between 1-5pm.

Clare’s Wish is the only

Irish charity to grant wishes for adults with terminal or lifethreatening conditions.

The brainchild of Kevin Clancy from Doon, Co Limerick, it was named after his late sister who passed away several years ago aged just 24.

The charity receives no funding but has managed to grant over 12 wishes in its first year.

Most wishes either involve wanting to go somewhere or to meet someone.

“We held this charity fair event in Limerick last year and was a great success for all those involved and a must for any one getting married and also supporting a local charity in the process,” Clancy said.

“It is simply fantastic to grant wishes for adults and

provides respite from the normal routines of hospitals, doctors and treatments.”

There is no admission for this event but donations will be kindly accepted on the door as this is one of the charity’s biggest fundraisers of the year.

For more information please go to www.ClaresWishFoundation.com

26 March 2015 dublin city gazette 5

Expert fitting service, bringing value to Irish consumers for over 45 years

Transform your home for less at Des Kelly Interiors At Des Kelly Interiors, they have a real passion for flooring.

They have a huge focus on stocking all the up to date ranges and colours from all the leading manufacturers which makes it no wonder they are Ireland’s Number One Flooring retailer. New floors can completely transform a room, Des Kelly have personal staff members dedicated to helping you find the floor solutions that will work best for you.

Grey flooring seems to really be the trend at the moment and they really do have Fifty Shades of Grey flooring to suit everyone in store. Grey flooring

offers timeless style and long-lasting beauty with a modern industrial twist, add little hints of colour with a single red rug can work wonders , as could a stunning red vase or light and this is because one block of colour or a playful splash makes a huge impact in your room. Stocking all the

flooring in their newly renovated warehouse, means Des Kelly again is striving to bring value to the Irish home.

Quickstep floors are no doubt the best laminate floors on the market at the moment. They have FREE FITTING of the Creo Jungle Plum and Rustic Oak for the month of March, so pop in and grab yourself a bargain.

They supply and fit your floor from start to finish hassle free.

Stocking a full range of carefully selected accessories for a perfectly finished floor, Des Kelly has the solution for every floor and situation.

Installing the right

underlay has a major impact on the final look, quality and comfort of your floor. Based on their experience for the past 45 years they have selected a collection of high quality underlays to provide excellent acoustic and thermal insulation for your new f loor .

Whether you are looking for Hardwood or Laminate flooring, Des has got you covered.

There is a floor to suit every home. No matter your application, living room, dining room, stairs, Yes, Stairs, or bathroom, Des Kelly Interiors offers the best value for money and affordable options on the market.

6 dublin city gazette 26 March 2015

FastNews Contemporary to classic ballet at Project Arts Ballet Ireland presents Tutus and Beyond, in the Project Arts Centre, taking the audience through a journey from traditional classical ballet to the striking contemporary work being produced today. Performances include the romantic classic Pas De Quatre, Sing, Sing, Sing inspired by Bob Fosse, legendary 60s-70s choreographer and new ballet Lost by Ludovic Ondivuiela. This event takes place from April 9 to 11 with tickets costing €20/€18. See www.projectartscentre.ie for booking details.

Fun run in aid of the Marie Keating Foundation Run, walk or just have fun at the Skechers 5km fun run for Marie Keating Foundation taking place in the Phoenix Park this March.

This event takes place on March 29 and is open for registration at a cost of €15 per person or €30 for a family. All proceeds from the event will go to Marie Keating Foundation’s breast cancer awareness programme. Everyone who participates will receive a goodie bag, as well as a €15 voucher for Skechers. To register, visit www.precisiontiming.net.

transplant Marino man tells his story

‘I am forever grateful for new lease of life’  Laura WEbb lwebbn@gazettegroup.com

A RETIRED Fire Brigade district officer and organ donor recipient will be forever grateful to the person who gave him a new lease of life and calls for an opt-out option rather than opting-in when it comes to organ donation.

Marino resident Paddy O’Mahony (62) was diagnosed with idiophatic pulmonary fibrosis in 2010, a progressive debilitating disease which affects the lungs.

At the time he was given three years to

live. After being recommended to see a respiratory physician in St Vincent’s Hospital he was offered hope with a new drug designed to slow down the progression of IPF and talk of a lung transplant.

He told The Gazette that when he received the diagnosis, it “went over his head” but once he came back down to earth it was time to ask questions like how does it affect you? What can be done? Luckily for him there was help.

“There are things that people need when they are told news like this, one is hope and the other thing is options.

He [the physician] gave me hope with options.

“One of the options was a lung transplant.

For this you go through a lot of tests and procedures to make sure you are suitable for transplant… and you have to be lucky.

“I was called three times. T he first two times either someone else was more suitable than I was so you wait your turn,” he said.

Since receiving his transplant in 2013 he has a new lease of life and will never be able to fully thank the person and family who helped him. “I think of them every day. It is the ultimate gift that one human being can give to another.”

During his 37 years as a fire officer he came to realise the value of carrying a donor card and would encourage more to do so.

The fact that people have to opt in for this vital resource is something he would like to see changed.

But as it is not the c a s e , h e s ay s i t i s

Paddy O’Mahony speaking about his lung transplant at the Mansion House

“extremely important” that people carr y a donor card but more importantly, that they talk to their families about their wishes.

“It is one of things in life that happens and it happens to us all eventually and although it is difficult to talk about it needs to be talked about,” he said.

S i n c e h av i n g h i s transplant, Paddy organised a cycle event last May with Dublin Fire Brigade and is organising another fundraising cycle with his former colleagues in aid of the Irish Health and Lung Association this June 14.

He also took part in the Transplant Games in Lithuania in cycling and secured a bronze

-------------------------------------------------------

‘It’s extremely important that people carry a donor card but more importantly, that they talk to their families about their wishes’ --------------------------------------------------------

medal for golf.

K n ow i n g h i s l i f e could have been completely different without the transplant, he wrote an anonymous letter to the family of his organ donor to thank them for this amazing gift.

“I have a lot to be grateful for. It was a gesture of how humble I feel and to give them a boost that their loved one is not forgotten.

“I, and other people, have had their life prolonged because of them.

It allows me to spend

more time with my wife, Pauline, see my four grandchildren grow up, see my son in Colorado – I wouldn’t be here to do that. For the likes of that I am eternally grateful,” he said.

Organ Donor Awareness Week runs from March 28 to April 4. For further information see: www.ika.ie.

Organ donor cards can be obtained by phoning the Irish Kidne y A s s oc ia t ion on 1890 543639 or Freetext DONOR to 50050.

26 March 2015 dublin city gazette 7

8 dublin city gazette 26 March 2015

gazetteGALLERIES

Keith and Aoibhe Connolly. Pictures: James Martin

st patrick’s day: centre celebrates

Cead mile failte for a top parade A

S ALWAYS, the city was awash with colour for the annual St Patrick’s Day celebrations along the main thoroughfares, with an estimated 500,000 taking in the spectacle of the vibrant parade as it passed along. A wide range of floats, bands, marchers and assorted characters took part. Along the route, crowds packed the route – so much so that pedestrian traffic came to a standstill by the barriers which blocked the view at key points. But nothing daunted the spirt of the occasion. Proceedings were upbeat and energetic with all components delighting the thousands who were lucky enough to see the pageant as it moved through the city.

Alex Holmes and Sarah Linnegar

26 March 2015 dublin city gazette 9

10 Gazette 26 March 2015

gazetteGALLERY

Morah and Lottie Ryan

Ali Hewson and Adi Roche at Liz O Donnell’s (centre) annual fundraising lunch. Picture: Brian McEvoy

fundraiser: Liz’s Lunch for Chernobyl at Fire restaurant

Liz’s desire to help others catches fire

A

li Hewson was among the homegrown glitterati who turned out to support Liz’s Lunch for Chernobyl.

Hosted by RSA chief and Chernobyl Children International (CCI) board director Liz O’Donnell, with

Eva Orsmond

businessman, talent manager and CCI board director Noel Kelly, the event took place in Dublin’s Fire restaurant.

The charity plays a major role in helping to save the lives of hundreds of children born with genetic heart

Aidan Power and Tara Carey

defects in Eastern Ukraine.

Liz O’Donnell said: “This event is a fantastic example of how the concern and generosity of everyone here today will help save the lives of those babies and children in serious need of medical intervention.”

Claire Byrne

Kathryn Thomas and Padraig McLoughlin

Ursula and Dave Fanning

26 March 2015 Gazette 11

asdfsdaf easter camps P27 P14

escape the mayhem p13

dublinlife Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week

a day in the life: award-winning blogger Sinead Burke

what’son

Dinner time with the family feeds the soul  keith bellew

Sinead Burke, aka Minnie Melange, has many strings to her bow: she is an award-winning blogger, PhD student and an ambassador for the ISPCC’s Shield AntiBullying campaign.

This week the Gazette caught up with her to find out what she does on an average day.

Her packed schedule necessitates an early rise, which is not always easy: “I wake at about 6am, though that rarely occurs without at least three alarms shrieking at me to get up.

“The snooze button is also pressed quite frequently but the less we say about that, the better.

Attempting to attain the most amount of sleep, I have a regimented routine in the morning that most definitely includes breakfast.

“A typical meal for me in the morning is a bowl of granola with some sliced fruit and a yoghurt.”

She is currently studying in Trinity College for a PhD, the subject of which is the experiences of children in primary school. She says the research involved is very time consuming which makes it difficult to find a balance with her blogging.

“In the midst of academia, allotting time for consistent blog posts can be a challenge but I’ve begun to achieve a balance of research, transcribing interviews for the blog’s Extraordinary Women series, updating social media and engaging with the blogging community.

“It’s not an easy feat but one which has been extremely fruitful, thus far.”

A family dinner is an important part of her day: “I’m fortunate to live at home with my parents and siblings.

“Collectively having dinner is something which is really important to us. The dining room table is where we assemble to announce our news and the various activities we are engaged in.

“Thus, the set time for dinner is when we are all home. It’s one of my favourite parts of the day.”

While she has a lot of work to do each day, that doesn’t stop her from taking the time to relax every evening.

“I’m really fortunate to have lots of work and activities that keep me occupied during the day but I firmly believe that it’s essential to wind down at night time.

“Typically, I try to do



Gazette

diary p12

Jersey Boys making an appearance in Dublin: The

Sinead Burke: “I’m enamoured by Wyvern Lingo, Louise O’Neill’s excellent book Only Ever Yours and the hilarious Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt on Netflix.”

this either through music, reading or television. I’m currently enamoured by [Bray band] Wyvern Lingo, Louise O’Neill’s excellent book Only Ever Yours and the hilarious Unbreakable K immy Schmidt on Netflix.

“I aim to be in bed early but it’s always at the point of the night, when you know you should be making your way to bed, that an amazing plot twist occurs in a book or on a television programme and you think to

yourself – just one more chapter or episode.”

Burke will continue in her ambassadorial role with the ISPCC Shield campaign for the remainder of March. For more information visit: www. ispcc.ie/shield

award-winning and highly-acclaimed production of Jersey Boys is coming to the Bord Gais Energy Theatre from April 1 to 18.

Jersey Boys is the remarkable true story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons and their rise to stardom from the wrong side of the tracks.

These four boys from New Jersey became one of the most successful bands in pop history, were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and sold 175 million records worldwide, all before they turned 30.

The producers of the tour are also delighted to announce that West End star Tim Driesen will be heading the cast as Frankie Valli, a role he previously played for a short season at the Prince Edward Theatre in the West End. Tickets are on sale now from €20 to €60 and can be purchased from www. bordgaisenergytheatre.ie.

Gazette

12 Gazette 26 March 2015

dublinlife

DIARY

It’s ofishial – Jedward land first film roles

Their hair may be more on the flat side these days but Jedward could soon be back to their hair raising days when they battle it out with a shark in their first movie – Sharknado 3.

The Lucan duo, known for their love of high hair, are set to share the screen with Bo Derek, Jerry Springer and David Hasselhof in the satirical disaster

made-for-TV movie.

Rumour has it that they could also feature in the fourth movie and are in talks to write music for it.

They are teaming up with their new BFF Tara Reid who features in the franchise. The twins met the Hollywood actress during their stint on Celebrity Big Brother back in 2011 and have remained friends since

then.

bristling with anger at bord gais theatre The whole of Montrose seemed to have decamped to the Bord Gais Energy Theatre this week to see a new production of classic courtroom drama Twelve Angry Men, which came direct from its successful run in London’s West

Over the moon: Lucan duo team up with new BFF Tara Reid

Claire Whelan with Stephen Faloon, general manager of The Bord Gais Energy Theatre, celebrating five years of the well-known Dublin Theatre. The theatre has had 2.5 million visitors viewing 250 productions since 2010.

Picture: Brian McEvoy

End. On March 16, RTE broadcaster Gay Byrne, former newsreader Ann Doyle and weather presenter Nuala Carey were all in attendance on opening night. Also there were some of RTE soap Fair City actors such as Ciara O’Callaghan, who plays Yvonne Doyle and Aoibheann McCaul who is Caoimhe Dillon in the show.

Twelve Angry Men featured Olivier and Tony Award winner Tom Conti, who came to the Bord Gais Energy Theatre last week for a short run.

Conti took on the role made famous by Henry Fonda in the movie version of the play, as juror number eight, the charismatic man who sways the other 11 jurors to his way of thinking about a murder case.

The cast did a good job of recreating the dissension and fraught atmosphere that fills the

jury room as personal prejudices and selfish motives are thrashed out against the backdrop of a 16-year-old black boy facing the electric chair.

The Bord Gais Energy Theatre also celebrated its fifth birthday last week with a special celebration recognising all the great performances held in the Grand Canal venue since 2010.

enda’s tense moment with us president It’s fairly safe to say that Taoiseach Enda Kenny has a great admiration for US president Barack Obama.

From fawning over him during his visit to Ireland a few years ago and his quoting almost word for word his “Yes we can” speech, to the poster of him hanging in his office in Leinster House.

How painful it must have been for him then when during his St

Patrick’s Day visit to the states, Obama accidentally snubbed Enda when he went to shake his hand prior to a sit down with the press.

Just as the two sat down for a press conference, Enda reached over to shake Obama’s hand, but the US president just happened to turn towards the reporters at that very moment.

Enda tried to save himself embarrassment by looking at his hand as if he were examining his nails, but unfortunately this act didn’t help the disappointed Taoiseach.

Rihanna is radiant in rocha design She is famous for wearing next to nothing, but when pop singer Rihanna does decide to don some threads, at least she has good taste.

Recently seen wearing a white two-piece outfit with scalloped hemline by Dublin designer

Simone Rocha, Rihanna stepped out in fine Irish style at a promo for her new film Home, in New York.

The jacket, skirt and white shoes she wore, are all part of Simone Rocha’s latest collection, which, if Rihanna paid for the ensemble, would have set her back more than €2,000.

This is the second time Rihanna has favoured Rocha’s fashion creations, having previously worn a sheer white skirt with statement pink underwear which drew more than a few gasps last year.

28-year-old Simone is the daughter of famous fashion designer John Rocha and is currently blazing a trail among A-listers in Hollywood.

Actress and writer Lena Dunham was also seen in Rocha’s designs at a recent gala event in Los Angeles when she wore an off-the-shoulder black dress by Rocha.

26 March 2015 Gazette 13

Gazette

news

dispute: low-hour contracts, fair pay, job security and union representation behind action

Thousands of Dunnes Stores workers set to strike  gazette reporters

Around 3,000 Dunnes Stores workers will take industrial action at branches throughout Dublin on Thursday, April 2.

The striking workers are members of Mandate Trade Union which represents about 50% of the 10,000 Dunnes employees throughout the country. Over 75% of the workforce is female.

The one-day strike goes ahead in 109 stores across the country. This follows a ballot of workers in dispute with the company over low-hour contracts, fair pay, job security and union representation.

A picket will be put on all Dunnes Stores out-

lets across the country, which will remain open.

It is likely the action will “severely” affect business on the day.

Various branches in the city and surrounding areas will be picketed by hundreds of staff members.

Those stores affected by the strike in Dundrum include Beacon South Quarter, Cornelscourt in Foxrock, Leopardstown, Nutgrove Avenue in Rathfarnham and Stillorgan, while Georges Street is the only branch in Dun Laoghaire. Around 58% of staff at the Dundrum stores will picket while in Dun Laoghaire the figure is 75%.

In Dublin 15 both

Blanch Shopping Centre and Ongar branches will be affected. About 160 (70%) members of staff at the former will strike and 20 (23-24%) in Ongar.

Both Swords Pavilions and Rathbeale Road branches will strike with 50 and 15 members of staff taking part respectively. Meanwhile, in Clondalkin, 200 Dunnes Stores staff at the Mill Centre will engage in industrial strike action.

Mandate representative Dave Moran, said the union is trying to negotiate better terms and conditions for staff and that the company refuses to enter discussions to avert strike action.

“We have been trying

to negotiate over the last number of years to get better terms and conditions.

At the moment most workers are employed on 15 hours or temporary contracts for three months. There is no guarantee of what earnings they get from one week to the next. Some weeks they get 15 hours some 30 hours and some 20 hours, you just can’t plan a lifestyle on fluctuating wages.”

These contracts have implications for social welfare and family income supplement entitlements.

Moran added: “We have asked the company to attend both conciliating in the LRC and we have had two Labour Court

Around 3, 000 workers will take part in a one-day strike at store branches throughout Dublin on Thursday, April 2

hearings; both times the company has refused to attend,” he said.

According to Moran, the Labour Court in its most recent recommendation urged both sides to sit down and discuss all

issues but “unfortunately” Dunnes has “refused”.

If nothing has been resolved from this strike, Moran said the union’s national dispute committee made up of Dunnes Stores representatives

will meet after April 2 to decide on the next course of action.

Dunnes Stores has been contacted, but at the time of going to press had not come back with comment.

Gazette

14 Gazette 26 March 2015

dublinlife

Easter isn’t just about It’s that eggstra special time of year when schoolkids can enjoy some time out from the books to build on budding skills or whet their appetite for a new hobby and have fun  staff reporters

Dun LaoghaireRathdown

This Easter Dun Laoghaire-Rathdow n has plenty to occupy and entertain children during their time off school.

DLR Leisure Services hosts its Kids’ MultiSport Camps for boys and girls aged four to 13.

During the Easter holiday, children can let off steam and get active at DLR leisure centres in Monkstown, Meadowbrook and Loughlinstown from 9am until

3pm, Monday to Friday.

Activities include swimming, basketball, tennis, dodgeball, football and more. Prices are €80 per child per week or €20 per day. Book at www.dlrleisureservices. ie.

For smaller children, Imaginosity in Sandy-

ford has lined up unusual Easter camps: an Elsa and Olaf Camp and a CSI Investigator camp.

From March 30 to April 3, Elsa and Olaf, based on the popular Frozen characters, offers activities based on the movie featuring arts and crafts, dance and drama.

There will be snowmenbuilding, ice castle design, singing and storytelling.

C SI I n v e s t i g a t o r explores what it is like to be a real detective. Children follow clues, solve riddles, check fingerprints and more.

The camp runs April 7 to 10 from 9.30am to 1pm and costs €80 a week or €25 a day. Places for both are limited, so booking is essential: call 01 2176130.

In Dublin 15

CAMPS running in the area are sure to capture kids’ imagination.

A Soccer Camp in Coolmine Rugby Club r uns April 6 to 10, 10.30am to 2pm for all aged four to 13. It costs €95 for the week. For info, go to www.skillzsoccercamp.com.

For budding scientists, Eggcellent science camp in Castleknock is a must.

Starting March 30 and ending April 10, Eggsperiments allow kids to find out all they ever wanted to know about eggs: investigate them as a food source; dissect an egg; dissolve the shells; find out if they’re strong enough to walk on. Would they be good heat insulators?

It costs €70 a child, aged four to 12. For more

Dillon Shinbach and Emily Darley were eggs-tremely happy to help announce that

info, visit www.anyoneforscience.com.

For the young Van Goghs and Da Vincis Artzone camps at Castleknock Parish Centre from March 30 to April 10 are the answer. Open 10am to 2pm, organisers say this year’s event will feature the best portfolios of crafts, stories and games yet experienced.

Projects include painting, drawing, collage, clay and 3D construction, print and graphics. More information at www.artzone.ie.

In North Dublin

At the Old Stables, Drynam Road, Swords, Badgers Den is running a cracking Easter Egg camp, jammed with Easter activities: arts and crafts, music, drama, sports, science, games, cooking and baking, trips and outings and more.

Past outings include the wax museum, Newbridge Farm, the zoo, cinema, Kidszone play centre, to name a few.

The camp runs March 30 to April 10 with half day (9am-1pm) and full day (9am-6pm) options.

More information at www.badgersden.ie For sporty kids, Buzz – Ball Parties is running a sports camp at St Helen’s Senior National School Portmarnock March 30 to April 10. The Buzz – Ball programme teaches kids the basic skills they need before signing up to organised sport.

This Easter camp, for five- to six-year-olds, runs from 9.30am to 1.30pm. More information at www.facebook. com/buzzballparties.

Malahide Castle Golf & Tennis club hosts a Junior Golf Camp at Malahide Castle for those aged six to 13, March 30 to April 3, from 9.30am

to 12.30pm. It is provided by PGA Professional Jason Somers. More information at www. mcgt.ie.

In Lucan and Clondalkin

Lucan Leisure Centre hosts an Easter Kids Camp for kids aged three to 10. A mini camp for children aged three to four takes place 9.30am to 12.30pm.

Those a little older (five to 10) can partake in an Easter camp from 9.30am to 2pm, April 7 to 10.

Activities include basketball, football, hockey, tennis, rounders, bench ball, volley ball, arts and crafts, team games and treasure hunts. The minicamp costs €35 per child and €52 for older children. More info at www. lucanleisure.com, or call 01 6241930.

At Clondalkin Leisure Centre, an Easter Splash Camp caters for those

26 March 2015 Gazette 15

chocolate, you know

Gazette

easter camps

The upcoming Eggcellent science camp in Castleknock will delve into the mysteries and goodness of eggs, glorious eggs

Join “Elsa” in Imaginosity to delve into a cool world of Tayto Park has added Dinosaurs Alive to its attractions

Frozen-related fun and games

aged six to 12. Activities include swimming, rock climbing (10+), archery, basketball, football, unihockey, tennis, rounders, bench ball, volley ball, arts and crafts, team games and treasure hunts.

All activities are fully insured with small numbers in each group. These camps take place April 3-5 and April 7-10 from 9.30am to 2pm. The fiveday camp costs €65 per child and the four-day is €52. More info at www. clondalkinleisure.com, or call 01-4574858.

activities from a Viking House Dig, day tours, leather working, pottery, archery and weaponry.

In Dublin City

The Gaiety School of Acting on Essex Street West, Temple Bar runs its Make a Movie! Lights. Camera.

Action from March 30 to April 2. Kids learn from the experts how to write, act, light and do the sound in a movie. Footage is professionally edit-

ed and kids then receive a DVD of their own movie.

Admission is €200 for the week. More info at www. gaietyschool.com or call 6799277.

For the budding chefs, the Whisk Cookery camp shows kids how to cook soup, breads, Thai curry, beef bourguignon, lemon drizzle cake, falafel veg burgers, hummus, brownies and more. It runs March 30 to April 2 or April 7-10 in Templeogue/Terenure and suits those aged seven to 14.

Admission is €100 per week. More info from whiskcooker ycamp@ gmail.com or call Susan on 086 602 8336.

The Big Dig Archaeology Camp in Harold’s Cross allows children aged to 12 get their hands dirty as they get introduced to the mysteries and adventures of archaeology in a fun and relaxing environment.

Children also enjoy

For further information, see www.sia.ie This camp runs from March 30 to April 10.

Gazette

16 Gazette 26 March 2015

dublinlife

Q&A

business Range of impressive conference rooms With up to 400 complimentary car parking spaces, direct access to/ from Dublin Airport via Dublin Coach and in close proximity to the Luas facility into Dublin City Centre, the Green Isle Conference and Leisure hotel on the Naas

Road is a great place for business conferences.

Clients may choose from a broad range of meeting rooms including 40 fully equipped boardrooms, all with natural daylight, airconditioning and high speed WiFi. The con-

ference centre offers a range of impressive conference rooms for up to 750 delegates theatre style or 550 banqueting style and located on the ground floor of the hotel making it easily accessible for all delegates.

For those travelling

from afar the option of staying overnight is open. The executive style guestrooms have ample work space and complimentary internet access.

For more information visit www.greenislehotel.com.

Chris Robinson of CR Bodyworx

Doing his best to make clients feel their best CHRIS Robinson is a personal trainer and owner of CR Bodyworx in Dundrum. He has been working in the health and fitness industry for the past eight years.

During this time, he has helped many clients achieve great results and transform their bodies.

Robinson specialises in weight loss

and body conditioning.

He provides tailored nutrition plans, one-to-one personal training, group training, boxing and can help with motivation.

Robinson, a highly experienced trainer, dedicates his time solely to helping clients look and feel their best.

How long have you been in business?

What law or regulation would you change overnight to help your business?

We have been open for two years in March.

What makes your business successful?

Our experienced team of trainers who are personable and professional make our business successful.

Our staff are very dedicated to helping our clients achieve their goals.

What do you offer your clients that differs from your competitors?

Our unique programmes which are specifically tailored for our clients’ individual needs are what make us different from our competitors.

We are focused on our clients specific goals and want our clients to get the best results possible.

How has the recession affected your business?

We have had to find the right balance between competitive pricing and the value of the services we provide.

What have you changed about your business to combat the effects of the recessions?

We have devised different payments options for our clients to suit their needs.

We want rates to be determined on the success of a business – this would help new businesses grow.

How do you use social media to help your business?

We use social media for connecting with our clients.

We also post our clients amazing results and progress. It is also a great way to connect with potential clients.

What is your ambition for the business?

We would like to expand our business throughout Dublin. .

What is the best piece of business advice you ever received?

Believe in yourself and forget the doubters.

What is our favourite thing about doing business in your local area

Dundrum has an excellent transport network: the Luas, many bus routes – plus it’s just off the M50.

The multitude of transport options make it easy for our clients to get to us.

What living person do you most admire?

My parents – they taught me that anything worth getting takes work.

SHaRE Reading board of management members Maura McMahon and Stephen Moran receiving a Dublin Bus grant from Niall Quinn

education: combat difficulties in the inner city

Helping to build reading skills and knowledge SHaRE Reading is continuing to celebrate with four inner city schools in the weeks after World Book Day. The 40 children who work directly with volunteers twice weekly on a paired reading programme that promotes reading comprehension and vocabulary building, have read 639 additional books since September.

With the support of ESB and JP Morgan, the first and second classes at St Mary’s Primary School, George’s Hill Presentation School, Gardiner Street National School, and St Kevin’s Boys National School in Finglas West are being challenged to read 160 additional books

per class.

Their reward will be an age appropriate book to take home, and an invitation to a storytelling workshop by Irish author Liam Farrell in late April.

According to the group: “We know from research that the more children read, the better readers they become and what better way to encourage this than to gift children age appropriate books.

“Research tells us that literacy difficulties are a serious problem in disadvantaged areas like north inner city Dublin: this affects children’s vocabulary and motivation to read as early as first class.

In 2013, SHaRE Reading

was founded to combat the serious reading difficulties apparent in Dublin’s north inner city.”

In 2013, SHaRE established a partnership with Belvedere College’s fifth year students to assist even more children with their reading in schools as part of Belvedere’s pastoral studies programme and commitment to social justice.

The group has an upcoming pilot project in which the children will use iPads funded by Dublin Bus to further motivate them to revise their literacy skills in spelling and reading using learning objects. It is also running workshops in the north

inner city for parents to teach them how to help their child read.

Tutoring and literacy testing are also available from SHaRE’s office at Spade Enterprise Centre in Smithfield.

“Before school, we offer a Bookfest programme which provides children with a healthy breakfast over vocabulary games. Our afterschool programmes include the mini reporters club which is run in conjunction with Dublin City Council, and Book Buddies which runs with the support of South Dublin City Council.”

For more information visit www.sharedreading. ie.

26 March 2015 Gazette 17

travel P21

asdfsdaf P27 food and drink P23

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

interiors P20

Radio Tune in for upbeat mental health news  laura webb

Strasbourg’s Auditive Connection will open this year’s festival

music Festival: young, creative and ambitious artists coming to town

Twelve Points about jazz

 keith bellew

The 12 Points Jazz Festival returns to Dublin this year for its ninth instalment at Project Arts Centre, Temple Bar, from April 15 to18.

Based in Dublin, with partner’s right across Europe, 12 Points showcases 12 young, creative and ambitious artists in jazz and related music each from a different European city.

12 Points Festival alternates between Dublin and other vibrant, young European cities. In previous years it has taken place in Porto, Portugal, and Umea in Sweden.

12 Points is programmed via an open call to the European jazz community, and with almost 500 applicants for this year’s festival, the 12 top acts have now

been selected, representing the top acts in Europe in 2015.

This year’s festival opens with Strasbourg’s Auditive Connection; followed over the next few days by piano trio Moskus (Oslo), groove-based band Stuff (Brussels), improv jazz group AMP Trio (Budapest), Berlin-based pianist Elias Stemeseder, Finnish trio Virta (Helsinki), Laura Jurd Quartet (London), SVIN (Copenhagen), Swiss uber-jazz group Hildegard Lernt Fliegen, BRUUT! (Amsterdam), jazz / punk-rock hybrid Black Dough (Gothenburg) and Dublin group Umbra which mixes jazz with Aphex Twin style electronica.

12 Points organiser Aoife Concannon says the aim is to create a closer knit network of members of the jazz communities across Europe.

There is also an emphasis on keeping the festival young and giving young musicians a chance to break through.

For that reason all performers must be under the age of 35.

Concannon said: “It’s [about] emerging acts at the beginning of their careers that we’re trying to push up to the next level by supporting them through this festival.

“It’s four great nights of really diverse music, from traditional jazz to very experimental stuff, with fusions of electronica or rock music and very different sounds from the different countries.

For example between Norway and Italy you would have very different styles of playing.

“It’s a bit unusual because it’s a European kind of thing. Every second year

it leaves Dublin and goes to a random European city, so it means that it builds a community across Europe of these young jazz musicians. It’s kind of unusual in Dublin to get a chance to hear a band from a country that otherwise wouldn’t have gotten here doing something very experimental.

“It’s a great chance for people with open minds to open their ears and hear what’s happening in Europe.”

She said that since the first instalment of the festival in 2006 it has grown from strength to strength: “There’s great interest in the festival within the music community in Europe because it’s seen as a place to go to, to see what’s the next hot new act.”

For more information on the festival visit: www.12points.ie

UPBEAT Radio, a popup radio station aimed at promoting positive mental health on the airwaves, will broadcast its last day on March 27 in time for Wellness in The Workplace Day. From March 23-27, well-known personalities such as model Alison Canavan, TV and radio presenter Aidan Power and comedian Alan Shortt have presented shows live from St Patrick’s University Hospital, on James’s Street, with broadcasters Ruth Scott and Theresa Lowe (below) also urging the public to tune in.

Run by St Patrick’s Mental Health Services, listeners in Dublin, Cork, Limerick and further afield have been tuning in to the station online or through FM radio between 7am and 9pm to hear discussions, music and information on positive mental health.

For further information on the station, see www.upbeat.ie.

Gazette

18 Gazette 26 March 2015

OUT&ABOUT

River Island Faux fur gilet €80

Penneys Straw hat €5 River Island Brooke flare jeans €50

H&M Jumpsuit €29.99

H&M

Kimo

no €

24.9 9

TK Maxx A-lin

e dress €69.9

9

River Island Pink sunglasses €17

Next Culottes €44

that

s 1970 look

Warehouse Suede duffel bag €40

 laura webb

New Look Tribal print playsuit €17.99

JUST like the hit American TV sitcom, That 70s Show, we are falling in love with this generation and its bohemian-like trend all over again. All across the high street, fashionistas can see this trend come on stream as we get closer and closer to the summer.

Culottes, denim, suede, flares, bo-ho dresses and platform shoes are just some of the 70s fashion style making their way to our SS15 wardrobes.

For anyone whose mum may have some vintage clothing hanging out in the attic, now is the time to get it down and make a fashion statement that can’t be seen elsewhere.

So, embrace this relaxed style that is taking a modern twist on the groovy 70s ...

H&M Leather shoes €49.99

26 March 2015 Gazette 19

Gazette

STYLE

It’s a g’day for Aussie beauty range

Mango is opening its first Irish megastore on Henry Street in Dublin

Mango opens megastore BIG news for Mango with the opening of its first Irish megastore, located at one of Dublin’s bestloved high streets: Henry Street.

The Spanish brand opened the store at 46-47 Henry Street recent-

ly, occupying an impressive space of 1,390sq m, and stocked with Mango, Mango Kid, Mango Sports and Intimates lines.

This is the latest megastore to open for the fashion brand that

continues to expand its stores.

Mango has 95 megastores worldwide, and the brand currently has eight stores in the Irish market since it was first launched here back in 1998.

KNOWN for its irresistible scents and caring formula that leaves hair in great condition, the Aussie hair range has now got the whole body covered.

The Aussie Brilliant Body Wash Collection is going to make you feel amazing from top to toe, and smelling even better!

This collection is available in four variants, including Shower Smoothie Body Wash (for skin in need of sensational smoothness – this wash includes Macadamia nut oil); Mega

Watt Body Wash (for skin that needs a bit of a boost – ingredients include energising ingredients such as Australian ginseng): Fresh Mate Body Wash (offering skin a blast of freshness with the coolest botanical ingredient, Eucalyptus extract) and No Rush Body Wash (which allows you to relax and let your skin savour the pampering Jojoba oil).

All body washes retail at €3.99 for 250ml and €6.49ml for 400ml, and are available at stockists nationwide.

Happy birthday to H&M Ireland

were all among the guests who enjoyed the stunning views of the city, as well as the brand’s latest Conscious collection. Happy birthday, H&M!

SOPHIE’S Bar at The Dean Hotel on Harcourt Street was awash with fashion last week when it hosted the 10-year birthday bash for H&M in Ireland. Glenda Gilson, singer Janet Devlin, fashion editors and stylists from across Dublin

Gazette

20 gazette 26 March 2015

OUT&ABOUT

INTERIORS

For those looking to make a statement, Harvey Norman offer a seven-piece Le Mont dining set, at €1,193

Cracking good kitchen help with Easter Luxury cabinet maker Smallbone of Devizes undertakes

commissions worldwide. Clients in Ireland are invited to

Arnotts Tic & Tac clock €85

discuss their needs with Alessi at Brown Thomas.

Kilkenny Shop Ulster Weavers T-Towel in a Jar €12.95

EASTER is a time to have the family over and what’s vitally important for the big day is a well-run kitchen.

So, it’s important to have all the appliances and accoutrements needed to roast the joint, mix the drinks and lay the table.

Gazette Interiors has trawled the shops to bring you the best kitchen equipment that will have you whipping up a storm, Jamie Oliver-style.

From high-end gadgets to more traditional products, Gazette Interiors has something for everyone ...

Kilkenny Shop Ulster Weavers Sheep tea cosy €19.95 Aldi Mini deep fat fryer €19.99

Littlewoods Mini kitchen scales €11

tts B Arno

u

s board nbury

5

€15.9

Arnotts Kartel Lizz chair €229

Alessi Electric kettle €119

Alessi Electric citrus-squeezer €169

26 March 2015 gazette 21

Gazette

TRAVEL

Stockholm, Sweden’s trend-setting capital

Culture galore in Stockholm  Ian Begley

Algarve, Portugal’s southernmost region of mainland, is renowned for its sandy beaches and certainly a destination worth visiting

mid-season breaks: skiiing or sunning, there’s plenty of options

Easter hop is on the cards  Ian Begley

Easter can be the perfect time of year to hop off on a mid-season getaway.

Whether it’s a skiing trip in France or a well-earned break on the beach, picking your destination is easy with plenty of options to choose from this year.

With Highlife Ski and Snowboard, swap the daily school run and rush hour traffic jams for the slopes and make for a family-friendly adventure in Morzine, France, with departures on March 29 and April 5.

Here, you’ll find the Highlife Marmotte Club, designed to let parents enjoy their day on the slopes without rushing back to meet children from lessons.

The Highlife Marmotte Club is for children aged four to 11

and is free to Highlife customers.

Highlife hosts will meet the kids after lessons from 12 noon and take them for lunch at the local cafe for an additional €75 to cover the cost of lunches and certain activities such as ice-skating.

Easter breaks with Highlife Ski and Snowboard start from €910 per adult and €742 for children under the age of 12. Check out www. highlife.ie for further information.

Famous for its sandy beaches, the Por tuguese coastal region of Algarve is certainly a destination that’s worth visiting, and on April 6 you can spend seven nights in the three-star Janelas do Mar from €147pp.

With the Prague Easter getaway, starting on March 27, spend three nights in the three-

star Slavia Hotel from €185pp.

Spend four nights in Barcelona’s four-star Travelodge Valencia Aeropuerto from only €189pp on March 29.

A four-day visit to Barcelona is perfect for a short but powerful introduction to the Mediterranean lifestyle.

If you’re in the mood for visiting some of Spain’s most impressive beaches, architecture, artwork and food, then Barcelona is definitely a city that you can’t afford to miss.

Want a beach?

Then what about an escape to Fuerteventua in the Canary Islands for nine nights at the three-star Club Montecastillo from €447pp?

With f lights leaving April 2, this island attracts visitors generally interested in a quiet relaxing holiday.

But, of course, there

are many bars and restaurants and good quality entertainment venues, along with welcoming Irish bars around its resorts.

You can also spend five nights in Nice, France at the four-star A p o g i a Ho t e l f r o m €243pp on March, 29.

Nice has a cosmopolitan Riviera vibe, and you’ll enjoy exploring its fashionable boutiques and restaurants and sunning yourself on its popular beaches.

Walk up to Castle Hill for a beautiful view of the city, the Bay of Angels and of course, the bright blue water t h a t g ave t h e C o t e d’Azur its name.

For more information or to book – visit w w w. G o h o p . i e o r call GoHop.ie on 01-2412389.

Budget Travel also has a range of fantastic Easter Family Specials

Head for the slopes and make for a family-friendly adventure in Morzine, France

from €559.

For a two plus one family, Majorca’s Hotel Cala Gran in Cala d’Or is priced at €559 with f lights depar ting on April 8.

With an endless, sparkling coastline that is home to a collection of luxurious yachting harbours, sublime beaches, non-stop sun-rays and the abounding passion of its Spanish locals, Majorca is definitely a

must-go to place this Easter. Spend seven nights in Malta at the Qawra Palace at €859 from April 7.

With superbly sunny we a t h e r, a t t r a c t i ve beaches, a thriving nightlife and 7,000 years of intriguing history, there is a great deal to see and do this Easter in Malta.

Visit w w w.budgettravel.ie for more information on these deals.

Dreaming of a cultural European g e t aw a y b u t n o t sure where to go?

Look no further than Stockholm, Sweden’s trend-setting capital city.

April is the perfect time to visit this stylish destination with Stockholm Art Week and Culture Night taking place in venues all across the city.

Art lovers will have a fantastic time at Stockholm Art Week, hosted in museums and galleries from April 14 to 19.

Visitors can take par t in innovative workshops, browse the works of up-andcoming artists and attend fun networking events.

On April 25, you can lose yourself in the best culture, music and dance the Swedes have to offer. Culture Night consists of over 400 events, all completely free.

Fly from Dublin to Stockholm up to eight days a week with SAS Go fares starting from as little as €76pp one-way.

For more information, visit www.flysas.ie.

22 Gazette 26 March 2015

Gazette

OUT&ABOUT Literature A chilling tale of business in new Russia

ARTS

books: money and power collide

Author John Banville: due to attend

A oui festival about writing

 Bairbre Ni Bhraonain

 Bairbre Ni Bhraonain

A NEW York Times and Sunday Times best-seller, Red Notice is the true story of how hedge fund manager Bill Browder – an American working in Russia – changed US law to impose visa bans and asset freezes on 28 Russian officials.

The officials, says the author, were implicated in the death of Browder’s Russian lawyer, Sergei Magnitsky, in 2009.

This is the gripping story of how Browder became Vladimir Putin’s

number-one enemy, by exposing corruption in Russian politics and business.

Browder comes from a family of maths professors; his grandfather, a Russian immigrant to America, was a Communist who ran for the presidency of America in the 1930s.

He bucked both family trends when he decided to study business and embrace capitalism. He became so successful that in 1997, when he was 33 years old, his hedge fund company was ranked the

best performing hedge fund in the world, with assets under management of $1bn. He was, however, drawn to Russia and lived in Moscow for a large part of his life.

In the early 1990s, Russia was wide open for investment as stateowned companies were up for grabs and were being privatised at knockdown prices.

When he first arrived in Moscow, fewer than 20 such deals had been done in the Soviet Bloc so Browder got to work identifying those whose shares

The cover of Red Notice, published by Simon & Schuster

were cheapest to guarantee the greatest return for investors.Browder set up his own company, The

Why advertise with the Gazette?

Let our advertisers tell you why:

“

Trabolgan Holiday Village, Cork have used the Dublin Gazette Newspapers for the last few years to advertise various aspects of our holiday village including special offers. We have always had an excellent reader response from the advertisements run and have found the area’s covered by all 8 papers of great value to Trabolgan. The help and guidance we have received from the staff has made it easier for us to communicate our message efficiently and cost effectively ensuring we get the maximum from our budget. We would have no hesitation in recommending the Gazette to any business.

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THIS year’s FrancoIrish Literary Festival takes place over the weekend of April 25 and 26. A special preview event, entitled Education Day, is lined up for Friday, April 24 where students get the opportunity to meet writers at the National Library of Ireland on Kildare Street and the Lycee Francais of Ireland in Clonskeagh.

The crime fictionthemed festival takes place in Dublin Castle on April 25, and in the Alliance Francaise, Kildare Street on April 26.

All events are free and open to the public.

B e c a u s e L o c a l M at t e r s

Hermitage Fund, and as his business prospered more investors came on board.

He soon came up against several corrupt Russian oligarchs, who tried to bully him out of millions of shares in several oil companies in Russia. Browder describes the way Russian business worked at the time as being like the politics employed in a prison yard.

Unlike the majority of Russians who acquiesced to the oligarchs’ shady tactics of diluting shares and stealing companies by force, Browder would not be cowed. Instead, he went to the international media to expose the corruption and successfully hold off the assault on his company.

Browder is one of those fabled characters in history who seems to be in the eye of every great political and historical storm.

At first, as Putin’s power took hold in Russia, he

and Browder seemed to be temporarily on the same side as both wanted to oust the 22 oligarchs who owned 39% of the wealth in the Russian economy.

However, unlike Browder, who wants a free market, Putin had more personal ambitions for the wealth ...

Browder’s style of writing is superbly apt for his subject matter. It is punchy, muscular and has a blow-by-blow nature, with no nonsense to it.

His style paints an accurate picture of the cut-and-thrust of high finance where the stakes are the highest and the benefits the greatest.

Like Browder himself, his writing is really punchy and that creates a very strong bond between author and reader, because he holds nothing back.

Red Notice is published

by Simon & Schuster, and is available now in bookshops, priced €20.85.

26 March 2015 Gazette 23

Saba’s Garrigue €10.95

777’s Margarita €11

Gazette

FOOD&DRINK

RESTAURANTREVIEW

Making Gusto’s delicious pizza. Picture: Kevin McFeely

Gusto by name, and an experience to match Coppinger Row’s Flo & Basy €12

Take5 THE Gazette Food team has been busy this week sampling yummy cocktails from around the city.

From the finest Margharita, to a delicious Virgin Mary cocktail, we have trawled the city and come up with the best on offer.

Summer is on the horizon and what better time to pull up a pew in some of the loveliest establishments in Dublin to sip on something sumptuous. Next month, we slice up the city in search of the tastiest pizzas on offer. Slainte mhor!

The Dean Hotel’s Virgin Mary €6

Rock Lobster’s Red October €9

 Bairbre Ni Bhraonain

GUSTO restaurant in the Clarion Hotel, Liffey Valley, staged a launch to remember recently with a taster menu, cocktails and an array of edible treats, all praised by celebrity comperes/broadcasters Marty Whelan and Nuala Carey The festival, organised by the Alliance Française Dublin and the Cultural and Scientific Service of the French Embassy, is supported by The Arts Council, Foras na Gaeilge, Poetry Ireland, Ireland Literature Exchange and the Irish Writers’ Centre.

A trio of musicians went around the well-appointed and ultra-modern though comfortable restaurant, with guitars and a double bass taking requests from the diners. Food on offer included mostly Italian, homemade fare such as pasta, pizzas and gloriously fresh stone-baked breads with tapenade.

Gusto’s relaxed vibe is ideal for both young and more mature diners and their prices are very reasonable. As a vegetarian and proponent of gluten-free food, I was delighted to see an array of options suitable for me on the menu.

I had gluten-free bread with basil and tomato soup, plenty of fresh black and green marinated olives, and gluten-free pizza with buffalo mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes and peppers.

Those around the table enjoyed free rein, with a selection of Gusto pizzas such as the house special, containing Sicilian sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, oregano, salami, chorizo and basil pesto.

This Casa Speciale pizza cost €15.95, while a Gusto homemade beef burger made from 100% Irish beef with spicy tomatoes, red pepper relish and smoked cheese is priced at €16.95.

There was complete silence as platters of food were handed around and diners tucked into dishes such as Linguine Al Frutti di Mare (€16.95), which included prawns, mussels, salmon and fire-roasted sweet peppers in a white wine and garlic sauce.

As well as this, there was chicken with Sicilian sausage, sun-dried tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella served with basil pesto mash and red pepper coulis – all of which resulted in more devout silence from the diners.

The taster meal was interspersed with wooden platters carrying grapes, a selection of Italian and Irish cheeses and olives. For further information on Gusto restaurant, see www.clarionhotelliffeyvalley. com/eat-drink/gusto-restaurant.

Gazette

24 Gazette 26 March 2015

OUT&ABOUT

RaceTime By participating, you can help fund research into spinal cord injuries

Ireland to host one of 35 Wings for Life runs

HEALTH

advice: empathy, support matter

Practical tips to help your relationship

 suzanne sheehy  maeve halpin

THERE is a new and unique type of challenge called Wings for Life run, that is being held in 35 locations worldwide and is open to athletes of all abilities. So, you have no excuse but to do it!

An event that ticks all boxes, and that combines fun with physical effort and a good cause, Wings for Life is a nonprofit run that funds research into finding a cure for spinal cord injury.

But this is no ordinar y fun race – a “catcher car” will start the chase 30 minutes after the race starts, and speed up slowly until everyone is caught.

You could run 5km, 10km or a marathon, but at 11.30am, the catcher car starts, setting a pace of 15km/hr (9.3mph), then getting faster ...

The run takes places at 11am on Sunday, May 3, with the Irish race starting in Dun Laoghaire town centre.

Why should you do it? 100% of all worldwide Wings for Life world run registration fees, proceeds, sponsorships and donations go straight to finding a cure for spinal cord injury.

For further information, see www.wingsforlifeworldrun.com.

Be satisfied you helped play your part in this worthy event, and see you there!

Counselling psychologist

EVEN in the happiest and most stable of relationships, difficulties will inevitably arise from time to time. Luckily, many skills and techniques can be learned to help improve communication and resolve conflicts.

Enhancing communication The single-most useful skill to bring to a relationship is that of active listening. This means listening with full attention without having any agenda of our own, listening purely to hear, understand and empathise.

Questions are used only to gain a deeper sense of the other person’s experience, not to advise, criti-

cise or score points.

In conversation, we often may be half-listening, thinking of our own ideas or worrying about other tasks and demands.

For couples, making time to be together, taking turns to share, confide in each other and listen can enhance the bonding and caring in their relationship.

Destructive behaviours When arguments occur, certain behaviours have been shown to be destructive to the relationship.

Stonewalling means shutting down, withdrawing and refusing to engage.

Stonewalling leaves the other person feeling rejected and unheard.

Criticism refers to making global statements

about the other person, such as: “You are so selfish” or “You never listen”.

Contempt is using sneering or sarcastic language, such as: “Of course, your family are perfect”, which humiliates and belittles.

Defensiveness occurs when we feel we have to justify our actions, such as: “You haven’t got a clue just how much I have to get through every day.”

The other person feels alienated and becomes defensive in response.

Defusing arguments To avoid repetitive, damaging arguments, start discussions amicably, with the goal of achieving a “win-win” situation.

Listen carefully and compassionately and be prepared to compromise.

Maeve Halpin: “Many skills and techniques can be learned to help improve communication and resolve conflicts”

A healthy relationship will accommodate both people’s needs, allowing each person to be themselves.

Remaining rational, caring and solution-focused contributes greatly to diminishing the hurt that can be caused.

Concentrate on the positive We are hardwired to be more aware of the negative – it is a survival mechanism. But we can

build up our “positivity bank account” every day, by giving compliments to our partner, being affectionate with hugs, kisses and small gifts, and saying thanks.

The everyday but essential things can be taken for granted. Appreciating the benefits and comfort of a relationship and the uniqueness of our partner can help us see our problems in perspective.

Short-term counsel-

ling can be a first step to understanding recurring difficulties and developing useful tools to resolve issues into the future.

Maeve’’s recent publication, How to be Happy and Healthy : The Seven Natural Elements of Mental Health, is available from local bookshops and online from www. amazon.co.uk.

You can contact Maeve at maeve@maevehalpincounselling.com.

testing: comprehensively monitor your all-round health at home

Now you can discreetly check your STI status

 suzanne sheehy

THERE are many steps you can take to improve your overall health. Some are more obvious than others, such as regular exercise and eating well.

STI testing is also an important aspect to your health, however. The stigma associated with it, along with symptomless infections, can keep people from getting tested which is the only way to know for sure that you do not have an STI. LetsGetChecked.com (right) is a new online platform allowing customers to order an STI

test kit, to test themselves in the privacy of their own home.

The service’s chief executive, Peter Foley, discussed the various benefits of LetsGetChecked’s home STI testing.

He said: “A real benefit is the convenience factor, so you don’t need to take time off work; you have the kit waiting for you at home.

“You don’t have to deviate from your day-to-day life, which is difficult taking a full day off work.

“You have convenience and you remove the whole embarrassing factor, as some

people are reluctant to get tested because they don’t like the physical interaction [with medical staff]. So, you do it on your own and get the results to your phone.”

There are up to seven tests available online, such as for HIV, syphilis or chlamydia.

According to Foley, chlamydia is one of the most frequently reported STIs in those aged 25 and under, and can cause infertility in women.

In the event of a positive result for a STI, Foley said: “There’s a team of support nurses who specialise in this

area. With a positive result, they will give you a call; your results will not go to your phone in this instance, and they will provide you with a sameday consultation in a private clinic.”

STIs can affect men and women of all ages who are having sex, as the dynamics of life have changed.

Foley said: “With online dating – one of the most popular ways to meet a new partner – people find themselves single,

and that little bit older than traditionally they might have in the past. It’s a lot more transient, and you don’t know where the other person has been.”

For further information, see letsgetchecked.com, or email: admin@letsgetchecked.com.

26 March 2015 Gazette 25

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28 Gazette 26 March 2015

SPORT Peat glad of Ireland comeback

FastSport

basketball: dual star looking forward to luxembourg after time out

Cool hand luke eyeing may return: LUKE

Keeler is set for a spot on the Matchroom Resurrection fight night at the Barclaycard Arena in Birmingham in May as he looks to overcome a hand injury sustained in the recent Prizefighter series.

Keeler impressed Matchroom boxing’s Eddie Hearn in Dublin last November in the 3Arena to get signed up to the promotion group.

At Prizefighter, the Ballyfermot man won his quarter-final convincingly over Luke Crowcroft but sustained the injury, meaning he was half-cocked for the semi-final with Tom Doran.

But Keeler says he is on the mend and looking to get back into action as he told Irish Boxing.

“With the tear in the ligament I haven’t been able to do much, but I am back in training this week. I have been doing pads with left and working hard so I will be in good form for May.”

 dylan murray sport@dublingazette.com

LINDSAY Peat is hoping to make up for lost time in an Irish basketball jersey following her selection as part of a representative side from the women’s

national league that travel to Luxembourg in May. There, the side will take on a number of international sides preparing for FIBA Eurobasket 2017, including Luxembourg and Scotland.

The 34-year-old, in

2013, was part of a select team that played in the Gathering Shield against Wales and she is hungry for more of the same after a frustrating five years.

“It was a fantastic experience and an opportunity to play as part of some

Lindsay Peat in action for Dublin against Monaghan last summer

Lindsay Peat in basketball action for DCU

sort of Irish representative team which I had not had the opportunity to do since the Irish senior women’s team was pulled from competition in 2010.

“We had a seriously talented team that day that simply blew Wales away, which was fantastic but also very sad reminder that talent was going to waste.”

The DCU Mercy woman co-captained the Irish senior side then, saying it was “the highest level I’ve played at.”

The withdrawal of the senior team came at a time when Irish basketball’s governing body had to repay over €120,000 to the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport.

“T he organisation

pulled us in 2010 due to lack of funding, I’d been in that senior squad since 2006, and we were one win off a play-off to Division A, which would have been huge.

“Basketball Ireland ran out of money basically and weren’t willing to let us try to raise funds to get us back into competition because they were simply so much in debt they couldn’t support us in any way possible.”

Since then, Peat has got her summer fix of elite sport solely as a mainstay with the Dublin senior footballers, winning an All-Ireland in 2011.

The Parnell’s clubwoman was also part of the Dublin team that narrowly lost to Cork in the All-Ireland final last Sep-

tember with Peat scoring two goals.

Peat said managing to balance playing both Gaelic Games and basketball in high levels is not quite the balancing act due to the lack of international matches in the latter code.

“Other than one match, against Kerry in the AllIreland quarter-finals, and the Irish women’s basketball team playing Switzerland at home, nothing really clashed but that was in 2010, the last year of the Irish basketball team.

“As for the club, the basketball season commandeers the winter months with football taking up the summer. I do miss the league season playing with Dublin due to basketball.”

Benildus student Robinson on the mark for Ireland  sport@dublingazette.com

St Benildus student Aaron Robinson

ST BENILDUS student Aaron Robinson was on the mark as Paddy O’Reilly’s Republic of Ireland schools side picked up three points in their opening game in this season’s Centenary Shield against a much fancied Northern Ireland side.

There will no doubt be a few talking points with the awarding of three penalties in this actionpacked thriller which saw the visitors just edge the local derby.

The hosts applied the pressure early but it was the Republic

who took the lead on 17 minutes courtesy of Robinson.

The Stillorgan native thumped the ball into the roof of the net from the edge of the box following a great piece of play with Conor Melody.

Adam Sally’s low driven cross was unlucky not to get a connection as the North pressed for an equaliser.

Evan Osam, from Colaiste Chilliain, Clondalkin, came very close to securing a second for the Republic but his free kick skimmed the post on 26 minutes.

The North continued to press high up the field but there were missed opportunities for this talented Northern Ireland side.

Conor Ellis, however, doubled the Republic’s lead on 44 minutes when he converted coolly from the penalty spot just before half time.

McCarron pulled off another wonderful save six minutes into the second period as Ryan Noble Walker’s header was on target.

The hosts made it game on with Skye poking the ball into the corner of the net to make to 2-1 on 53 minutes.

It was agony for Sally as his half volley cannoned off the post denying the youngster the equaliser.

The Republic were awarded a second penalty deep into the second half as Ellis converted his second penalty to put the Republic further ahead.

However, there was drama to follow as Sally converted his penalty to get the Northern side back in it and set up a tense finale.

The Republic, though, held out to claim the win following nine minutes of injury time.

26 March 2015 Gazette 29

Gazette

Irish hockey on top of the World League

ken’sDiary

Ireland’s national team moved a big step closer to qualifying for a first ever Olympic Games last Sunday in UCD; the key players tell STEPHEN FINDLATER about a special week ON A weekend of high Irish sporting achievement, the Irish women’s hockey team went in slightly under the radar but took a huge step toward Olympic qualification last weekend in Belfield, winning the World League Round 2.

The victory sees the side advance to Round 3 of the competition which acts as the qualifying process for Rio in 2016 with Ireland among 20 remaining teams battling for 12 spots later this summer at a tournament in Valencia.

Two years ago, during the World Cup qualifiers, Ireland bowed out in low key fashion at this stage. This time around, Darren Smith’s charges showed how far they have developed

with some breathtaking performances over the course of six games in nine days, crucially beating Belarus 7-0 in last Saturday’s semifinal.

Captain Megan Frazer, named player of the tournament, said of the win: “It’s always nice to come out like that in a high pressure game, a great performance. We had spoken about picking up the speed and intensity throughout the tournament and hit the nail on the head.”

The conviction of the performance is a far cry from 2013 when Ireland struggled against the same opposition, showing how far the side have come since then. Frazer added that her side were confident in their own methods.

“We obviously have some history with them but we did this in a really professional manner.

You can carry baggage against teams like that but we nipped that in the bud, gave them nothing and got a clean sheet. It was a great performance.

“We all knew it was a high pressure game and have played in them before. It’s a testament to the girls who kept their composure and kept it simple. Our passing rate, speed of play and our basics were on point. It’s something we are building up to.”

Frazer added that the crowd was “phenomenal” on days when there were plenty of other sporting options on the table.

“Every time we come

Irish captain Megan Frazer with President Michael D Higgins who presented the World League Round 2 trophy. Picture: Adrian Boehm

out, the stands are full even when the Six Nations rugby match was on. It is an honour to perform when everyone supports us like that and we really appreciate it.”

The Belarus result – against a team they had lost to back in

Former Old Alex player Shirley McCay spoke of the sense of trying to make history and qualify Ireland for a first ever Olympic Games.

“The level of our general play and our basics has improved hugely and I think we are very clear in our jobs which

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

‘It’s enjoyabe to play with freedom and flow and maybe we can go and build something special’ - Shirley McCay

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

2013 – ensured Ireland advanced to Round 3 along with fellow finalists Canada. It rendered the final on Sunday something of a lap of honour, albeit one played out in front of a giant crowd that included the President Michael D Higgins.

In a tense final, UCD’s Nikki Evans gave Ireland the lead 38 seconds into the second half only for Canada’s Holly Stewart to level seven minutes later in the tie.

That tied the game at 1-1, ultimately leading to a penalty shoot-out.

Coach Smith swapped i n Ay e i s h a M c F e rran between the posts and she kept out two Canadian efforts before Hermes star Aine Connery coolly rolled home the winner.

allows us to play with freedom and flow,” she said.

“It’s really enjoyable to play this way and we know each other’s game so well, making it easy to play off each other and maybe build something special.”

Coach Smith, meanwhile, said it was a superb end to a great week for the Irish team.

“Fantastic crowd, the President of Ireland, friends and family all here and a chance to win a tournament. The girls were really excited for the final and, in the end, it was good spectacle. Canada did a good job but we got the result in the end.

“World League 2, from my perspective, was a great advertisement for hockey and a lot of fun.”

Bleeding for the cause as Egan suffers first crash Olympic silver medallist and Irish boxing legend Ken Egan is to take part in this year’s Laurels Charity Crew Cycle from Galway to Dublin on April 19. In the run-up to the event, Egan has partnered with Gazette Sport to document his preparation for the big day, and here is his latest report from the road.

SO HERE we go again, 9.30am start for 100km on the menu. Thirty-six die-hards turned up last Saturday morning for the challenge ahead.

I managed to rope my good friend Frances into signing up for the gig and he was up for the challenge.

I had a good feeling in my bones for the cycle and was looking forward to a good session.

We made our way out of the usual Laurels starting point and up towards Newcastle with our target of Enfield.

We set off at a decent pace and in pairs which was the order of the day on account of there being 36 of us.

We were 50km in and some chap had the bright idea of swerving past my front wheel and, as I was clipped in, I had my first official crash and I sure hit the ground hard!

I kept my cool and didn’t resort back to my old sport of boxing.

I wiped myself down and mounted my bike again and, thank god, it was still in perfect condition.

I picked up a nice eight-inch graze on my right arm and a bruise on my hip but I am literally bleeding for this charity.

We soldiered on and got back to base in good time and my good friend managed his first cycle 106km on a mountain bike so I must say “well done Frances”.

To be continued, just four weeks to go.

Gazette

30 dublin city gazette 26 March 2015

SPORT

FastSport

soccer: penalty drama but dublin side still prevail

Liffey looking to down the Dons in FAI Junior TWO Dublin clubs have the chance to take one step closer to the Aviva stadium this Saturday but only one will prevail as Liffey Wanderers host Donnycarney FC in the quarterfinal of the FAI Junior Cup. The final of the competition will be held at the home of Irish football on May 17, in a double header that will also see the intermediate cup final contested.

There’s a long way to go until May, however, as both side’s attention will be firmly fixed on the clash at Irishtown Stadium this weekend.

Wanderers reached the quarter-finals stage of last season’s competition, but went out to Ballynanty Rovers in Limerick. With the home draw on their side this time round, the Pearse Street/Ringsend side’s keeper Philip O’Connor is quietly confident.

“It’s massive to get a home draw. I’m sure everyone at the draw wanted to get a home tie and it’s great that we did. We’re just literally two minutes down the road [from the Aviva Stadium], so if we did get through and make it to the final I’d say we would get a massive crowd.

“To win this competition, you need to play very well, work very hard, and also get a bit of luck along the way. If we play the way we know we can play then I know we can do it no problem.”

On the opposition, AUL Premier A side Donnycarney, the shot-stopper did not seem too fazed.

“I don’t really know much about them to be honest,” he said. “I just know that all our players are good enough to get there. We’ve a lot of players that are really talented so I think we’ll be alright.”

The Dons have reached the latter stages of the blue ribbon tournament for this first time, and their player Mark Ludlow knows they will have to work extremely hard to advance to the final four.

“We need everyone to give 120% and be working in the same direction. The work will have to be put in on the training ground leading up to the game, with no excuses for not showing up, and then we’ll just see what happens when the game comes.”

John Rock, Sheriff Youth Club, scores his side’s winning goal during the penalty shoot out. Picture: David Maher/Sportsfile

Nine man Sheriff advance FAI junior cup

Sheriff YC 1 St Michael’s 1 Sheriff win 4-2 on penalties sport@dublingazette.com

SUBSTITUTE goalkeeper Aidan McGrane was the hero for Sheriff YC on Sunday as they knocked holders St Michael’s out at the quarter-final stage of the FAI Junior Cup. McGrane not only saved a penalty with his first touch after Lee Murphy was sent-off with 20 minutes left but the Premier B stopper also kept out two of the Saints’ penalty attempts.

In an absorbing lasteight tie at Clontarf Road,

Darren Dunne fired the hosts into a 16thminute lead before James “Chalky”Walsh equalised for the Tipperary side on 72 minutes.

Both teams had a penalty kick saved and each finished the 110 minutes with only nine men.

Sheriff, back-to-back FAI Junior Cup winners in 2012 and 2013, will be joined in the semi-final draw by Clonmel Celtic, who defeated City United in Sunday’s other tie.

The draw will be held during the half-time interval of next Sunday’s Euro qualifier between the Republic of Ireland and Poland at the Aviva

raging bulls Clontarf make it into Bateman Cup final clontarf shaded a 24-20 result against

Ballynahinch in Ballymacarn Park to reach the final of the Ulster Bank Bateman Cup last weekend.

Two tries from Tom Byrne played a key role while Rob McGrath and Michael Brown also crossed the whitewash with David Joyce, pictured, landing a couple of penalties. Tarf were leading 12-10 at halftime with Hinch’s points from Ross Adair and Steve MacAuley tries.

Stadium.

A f ter Sheriff had survived a scare when Richie Ryan’s cross-shot rebounded off their post, the Dubliners dominated the rest of the half.

Dunne’s opportunistic opener, following up a superb save from Aaron Wall to finish the rebound from close-range, was richly deserved.

St Michael’s started the second half full of zest but were fortunate to see Darren Dunne’s curling 68thminute free-kick rebound off the underside of their crossbar and bounce back into play.

That let-off was the cue for their comeback

as Thomas Fahey earned a penalty two minutes for a foul by Lee Murphy that resulted in the Sheriff goalkeeper dismissed for a professional foul.

Although his replacement, McGrane, palmed Paul Tobin’s spot-kick around the post, the ensuing corner allowed Walsh ghost in at the far post to head home the equaliser.

The drama continued 10 minutes from the end of normal time as Sheriff skipper Paul Murphy’s surging dart from deep drew a foul and earned a penalty. Just like McGrane at the other end, Wall was equal to the task by denying Keith Dunne from the

spot. Tobin then received his marching orders in the 87th minute.

Neither side could conjure a clearcut chance in extra-time, only a couple of mistimed fouls which led to Kevin Lynch of Sheriff and Saints’ Richie Ryan incurring their second bookings of the afternoon.

In the shoot-out, it was advantage Sheriff after two attempts each as McGrane repelled Fahy and Chris Higgins while the home side converted both of theirs. Striker John Rock completed the job by sending Wall the wrong way with Sheriff’s final spot-kick.

26 March 2015 DUBLIN CITY gazette 31

Gazette

new sponsor

FastGAA

Raheny junior hurlers get boost for 2015 season

Trinity win Lynch Cup

raheny’s junior hurlers have been boosted by the sponsorship of Signasap. ie, located on the old Airport Road in Santry for the 2015 season.

They donned their new kit last week for the first time when they met Round Tower, Clondalkin in the opening game of the AHL9 campaign, playing out a lively match which Tower’s ended up winning 3-13 to 2-10 in St Anne’s Park.

football: quarter final with limerick awaits

SEVEN second-half points from Aisling Reynolds helped Trinity College, Dublin to claim the Giles Cup as they beat Athlone IT in last Saturday’s final at CIT, 1-16 to 1-9.

With Trinity holding a 0-6 to 0-5 lead at half-time, the Dublin college scored seven of the first nine points after the resumption, Reynolds scoring six as she was impeccable from frees while sub Stacey Flood also pointed soon after her introduction.

The lead had stretched to 1-13 to 0-7 when Athlone got a lifeline as Kelly Boyce-Jordan was fouled for a penalty which Caoileann Byrne converted. But Trinity stayed clear to land the trophy.

DCU’s second team held off DIT to claim the Lynch Cup thanks to a 2-13 to 1-10, offering some consolation to the north Dublin college after they fell in the O’Connor Cup final to UL, 3-16 to 0-9.

Despite a hero

Shane Durkin makin a stunning catch for Dublin last Sunday. Picture: Deryck Vincent

Treacy points way as Dubs go through nhl division 1a Dublin 0-26 Galway 2-14  sport@dublingazette.com

D U BL I N ’ S h u r l e r s returned to winning ways with this six-point victory over Galway in Sunday’s NHL Division 1A at a sun-kissed Parnell Park.

Following early round victories over both of last year’s All-Ireland SHC finalists, Kilkenny and Tipperary, Dublin’s graph slumped with defeats to Cork and Clare but Ger Cunningham’s men showed great resilience to make the

knockout stages of the league and fend off any relegation play-off fears.

In a free-flowing game Galway led at half-time 2-9 to 0-13. The Dubs had held the upperhand in terms of possession but were rocked by goals from Cathal Mannion in the fifth minute and Joe Canning in the 28th minute.

The highlight of the opening half was Paul Schutte’s excellent 21st minute point when he overlapped with the hard-working Shane Durkin before splitting the posts from 50m on the terrace side.

Danny Sutcliffe struck three first half points, Mark Schutte got two while David O’Callaghan engineered two fine points to keep Dublin very much in the hunt at the half-time break.

In the second half the Dublin defence came to terms more with the Galway attack while up front Mark Schutte and Sutcliffe continued to stretch the Galway defence.

Points from Schutte, sub Ryan O’Dwyer and Liam Rushe edged Dublin in front 0-17 to 2-10 by the 41st minute and Dublin kept in front til

the final whistle.

Dublin added points through David Treacy (free) and Johnny McCaffrey to make it five unanswered points in the vital six-minute spell for Dublin.

Galway attacks were sporadic but Alan Nolan did well to defy Canning on one occasion while the Portumna man fired another goal effort across the face of Nolan’s goal.

Dublin finished with points from Schutte, after a Niall McMorrow pass, Paul Ryan with an 85m free, Schutte again and finally Sutcliffe to seal the deal for the Dubs.

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O’Gara’s pain too familiar for Kilkenny  nathan kelly

sport@dublingazette.com

THE NEWS was announced this week that Dublin full-forward Eoghan O’Gara will miss the rest of the season with a cruciate ligament injury. One man who knows the devastation of missing a season with such an injury is Castleknock footballer Ciaran Kilkenny.

The 21-year-old missed basically all of last year, forced to watch from the sidelines a large amount of college, club and inter county football which is something no player wishes to go through.

Thankfully, Kilkenny is back in action after returning to full train-

ing in November and featuring for the Dubs in this season’s National League so far.

Speaking on the news of O’Gara, the Castleknock man said: “I’m devastated for Eoghan, I really am. These things happen in sport unfortunately. I wouldn’t wish such an injury one anyone. I just wish Eoghan a speedy recovery now and know if he puts the work in he’ll be back better than ever.”

Kilkenny, a former dual player, dedicated a massive amount of time to both football and hurling for club, county and college, which was often linked to the injury he suffered.

Now, fully focused on football,

the versatile Dub reveals how he felt about the time out.

“I suppose I was philosophical with it because I’d been playing so much with so many different teams,” he said.

“It was good to get a break but, then again, when you’re out for a year it’s tough and it makes you appreciate it a lot more that you’re in a privileged position to be playing for your county. I’d been playing so much since I was young and to be not playing is very hard.”

Kilkenny returned to the blue jersey against Donegal earlier in the national league in what was a game played at championship pace.

Some players might have been

cautious returning from such a lengthy spell out in such a fierce game, but not Kilkenny.

“It was a great game to come back into. I had played six or seven games before that so I was alright mentally going into the game, but Jesus, it was a great game to be involved in because it was end-toend stuff and a real competitive game with a good bit of bite in it too, and we were lucky enough to get the win too.”

Up next for the Dubs is Derry in Croke Park this Saturday, and a win could move Jim Gavin’s side into the play-off places going into the final day with the teams in the top four all playing each other.

Ciaran Kilkenny spoke to GazetteSport at the launch of AIG’S XLNTdriver App