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Balgaddy centre is saved by Tusla IAN BEGLEY
TUSLA, the national child and family agency, has announced that it will provide funding for the Balgaddy Child and Family Centre in 2015. It previously received funding from Atlantic Philanthropies, but that support ceased at the start of 2015, and the centre was in urgent need of financial assistance in order to continue its services. The total amount the Balgaddy
Child and Family Centre will get is currently being finalised. It is hoped that a final figure will be determined within the first quarter of this year. In the interim, the centre is being funded by South Dublin Partnership. Minister for Justice and local TD Frances Fitzgerald said she would continue to work with the centre and acknowledged its vital role in the community. Full Story on Page 3
Unsung hero honoured: Local receives Extra Mile award LUCAN resident Ciprian Fodor recently received an unsung hero honour at the Going The Extra Mile awards, presented by business services provider ISS. Ciprian, who works at Ipsen Pharma in Blanchardstown, was honoured for his positive
attitude and strong work ethic at a gala event in the Dunboyne Castle Hotel last week. Ciprian was presented with the award by Irish women’s rugby team star Nora Stapleton. See Full Story on Page 6
2 LUCAN Gazette 29 January 2015
facility Crucial money for child/family unit being finalised
Tusla set to fund Balgaddy centre Tusla, the national child and family agency, has announced that it will provide crucial funding for the Balgaddy Child and Family Centre for 2015. The centre previously received funding from Atlantic Philanthropies, which ceases from 2015,and was in urgent need of financial support in order to continue its service within the
ian begley ibegley@gazettegroup.com
community. The total amount the Balgaddy Child and Family Centre will get is currently being finalised. We l c o m i n g t h i s
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announcement, Minister for Justice and Equality Frances Fitzgerald, said: “In October last, I facilitated the visit to Balgaddy Child and Family Centre of Gordon Jeyes, chief executive of Tusla, the national Child and Family Agency, in order to assess the best and most viable options for maintaining the centre’s important role in the local community. “I am delighted that the discussions initiated at this meeting have now led to a commitment from Tusla to provide core funding for the centre in 2015.
“Coming under the auspices of Tusla also means that the centre is well placed to thrive in 2016 and beyond. “I will continue to work with the staff and board of the Balgaddy Child and Family Centre in order to give this important facility every chance to build on its already-vital role in the community,” she said. Cllr Eoin O Broin (SF) also commented, saying that the centre needed a significant increase in funding, especially for older teenagers. He said: “I want to welcome the announce-
Graduates from the Healthy Food Made Easy Course, which is just one of the events the Balgaddy Child and Family Centre holds
ment by the Minister. However, it is important that the total amount of funding awarded is at the level at which the centre is currently operating. “Sinn Fein has raised this matter directly with the Minister on
a number of occasions most recently on the 14th of this year. I understand that a number of constructive engagements between the centre and the Department took place, the most recent on January 19.
“[T he] announcement by the Minister is good news for the local community. However, Balgaddy needs a significant increase in investment in community facilities particularly for older teenagers,” said Cllr O Broin.
29 January 2015 LUCAN Gazette 3
award
Finnstown Abbey: residents said new addition was a safety hazard
Mayor praises ‘hard work’
Contentious traffic island is removed Ian Begley
South Dublin County Council (SDCC) has removed a controversial traffic island in Finnstown Abbey after much protest from local residents and councillors. The island was installed earlier this month after residents from the area grew concerned over a dangerous corner near the green that motorists were crossing at speed. At a traffic management meeting held in November there was a unanimous recommendation by local councillors to reduce the curvature of the curb. However, when SDCC’s contractors went to inspect the curb they decided to
install a traffic island at the site instead. This decision significantly narrowed the road and many residents complained about the traffic island being a safety hazard when trying to pass it in their vehicles. Lucan councillor William Lavelle (FG) told The Gazette that the decision caused “absolute uproar”. He said: “They put a bollard in the middle of the island and vehicles could not get around it. Residents were very upset by this and it caused new safety hazards around the area. I made a very strong request to remove this traffic island and ask why this decision was made in the first place.
“Residents are very happy that it’s taken out and I welcome this,” he said. In response to the requests made by Cllr Lavelle and Deputy Mayor Liona O’Toole (Ind), a spokesperson from the council said: “Following your representations and discussions regarding the recently installed traffic island in Finnstown Abbey, John Mcloughlin [senior engineer, Roads and Traffic Department] has re-examined the island. “While the design of such a traffic island is in accordance with Road Design Standards it is now apparent that the island has excessively narrowed the road.”
Relaunch: Low-cost counselling service is put into motion pci Counselling Service, a nationwide, low-cost counselling serv-
ice which offers appointments at various locations in Dublin was relaunched this week by Dr Harry Barry. PCI Counselling Service provides low-cost counselling in a number of venues around Clondalkin, Lucan, Tallaght and Dublin city, including community centres, GP practices, addiction services and health centres. Speaking at the launch, Dr Barry said: “I see the benefits of counselling and talk therapy at first hand in my GP practice. Counselling lies at the heart of the treatment for all forms of anxiety and it is also an integral part of the holistic management of depression, alongside other interventions.” Pictured are Eoin Stephens, PCI College president, Louise Brennan-Moroni, PCI counselling service co-ordinator and Dr Harry Barry.
Antiques fair for charity In an effort to raise much-needed funds, Kildare Animal Foundation (KAF) will be selling donated items at the antiques fair in Celbridge Manor Hotel on February 1. The fair, which starts at 11am, will see many other traders from the Lucan and Celbridge areas selling a wide range of antiques and collectables. All the money that the KAF makes will go towards their shelter to help them provide a safe haven for abused and neglected animals. Michele Kennan, who is a volunteer with KAF, told The Gazette: “The shelter is really struggling at the moment so every single cent we make on the day will go towards a really good cause.” For more information visit animalfoundation. ie.
South Dublin County Council has scooped the award for the Most Innovative Authority category at the LAMA (Local Authorities Members Association) Awards 2015. The awards highlight and celebrate the work done within communities in partnership with local authorities. The council won the award for the County Development Plan and Consultation Process. In accepting the award the Mayor of South Dublin County Fintan Warfield (SF) thanked the “hard work” and “dedication” of the County Development Plan project team.”
4 LUCAN Gazette 29 January 2015
initiative Elderly people living in local authority could benefit from proposal
Council could use freshly cut timber to heat homes Ian Begley
South Dublin County Council (SDCC) is considering using fallen and freshly cut timber as a
means to heat the homes of elderly people living in the local authority. This proposal was in response to a motion tabled at the January
council meeting by Maire Devine (SF). In the chief executive’s reply, it stated that the request was currently under examination and that there were some
issues to consider when dealing with freshly cut trees. “Fresh cut timber requires seasoning for at least six months before it is ready for burning. Typically wet wood has half the energy value of the same timber which has been seasoned or kiln dried. For wood burning stoves, many manufacturers recommend that
only wood with moisture content of 20% be used. To achieve this, the wood has to be either kiln dried or seasoned for up to two years. The timber needs to be stored dry for this to happen. However, if an agency such as Alone wished to take logs from us, store and dry them and then supply them to people on their list, we could consider such a
proposal.” Responding to the chief executive’s reply, Cllr Devine told The Gazette that she is currently working alongside the volunteer organisation, Alone, to make this idea a reality. She said: “I’m working in conjunction with Alone and we do believe that we have found somewhere that will enable the drying out process
for the wood. “Now it may take a year for the wood to reach a maturity that’s suitable for burning fire logs, but it’s an initiative that’s progressing. The outdoor workers from SDCC have told me that they will deliver [the wood] in their own time so there’s a community cooperation around it too,” said Cllr Devine.
Councillor Gino Kenny (PBP) says the findings are “shocking on welfare grounds and financial costs to the local authority”
council: 422 out of 469 seized horses put down
Number of euthanised horses up on last year ian Begely
The number of horses euthanised in South County Dublin has increased by 32% from 2013. Figures released by South Dublin County Council (SDCC) reveal that of the 469 horses seized in 2014, 422 were put down. Of the 47 horses that were saved, 22 were reclaimed and 12 horses were rehomed. By the end of 2014, 13 horses remained in the council’s pound. The figures from 2013 show that of the 322 horses seized by the
council, 285 were euthanised. In the same year, 23 horses were reclaimed and 16 rehomed. The significant increase in the number of horses that have been seized and put down has sparked outrage among local councillors. SDCC has also announced that as part of its capital programme in 2015 will commit €50,000 to the funding of an equine project in Clondalkin. The Department of Agriculture and Marine has also stated that it would contribute significant funding as part of the urban equine
welfare initiative. Local councillor and member of the Clondalkin Equine Club Gino Kenny (PBP) said: “Obviously these figures are both shocking on welfare grounds and financial costs to the local authority. Its represents a 33% increase from last year’s seizures of all horses in the county. This dramatic increase has many nuances in why there is this sizeable increase. “For all seizures in 2014 over 50% of horses seized were in the Clondalkin electoral area. The enforcement of the control of horse bye laws and mass impound-
ing is clearly not the only response to this perpetual problem.” The local authority is now examining a number of sites for the possible location for an equine project. The council has stated that horses are seized if they are found wandering on public land; if they are on private land without permission from the landowner; if they cause danger to property or persons; if they cause a nuisance; if they are stabled in a front or rear garden or if they are unlicensed. For information on the council’s horse regulations visit ww.sdcc.ie.
29 January 2015 LUCAN Gazette 5
dispute O’Sullivan says strike is ‘disproportionate’
Teachers to meet Minister for talks Ian Begley
Following on from strike action last week, the Department of Education confirmed to The Gazette that Minister O’Sullivan and the teachers’ unions are to enter further talks on Thursday, January 29. Secondar y school teachers in Lucan joined fellow colleagues across the country on a second one-day strike action in opposition of Junior Cert reform plans. Members of the Association of Secondary Teachers, Ireland (ASTI) and Teachers Union of Ireland (TUI)
braved the cold weather and stood outside their school for the entire school day to raise awareness about their opposition to some aspects of proposals to change the Junior Cert system. T he main issue is that teachers are being asked by the Department of Education to mark 40% of their student’s coursework. This is down from 100% which was first proposed by the Department, but teachers feel that marking their own student’s state exams would fundamentally affect their relationship with their students and
change the way they do their jobs. As part of an ASTI agreement, teachers demonstrated outside their schools in small groups, in shifts, throughout the day. Sean Beecher, who is a teacher in St Joseph’s College Lucan, told The Gazette that their protest was upbeat and positive. He said: “We received a lot of support. A lot of people were beeping horns and saluting us as they were going past. We also got donations of food by some of the parents and a local business brought up a tray of coffee for all of us.”
Beecher added that their aim is to maintain the integrity of the Junior Cert State examination. “We’re not protesting against the extra workload, it’s against us assessing our own students for the purpose of a State exam. “We assess our students all the time on a weekly basis and we feel it’s not fair on us and especially our students. “At the moment there seems to be a see-whoblinks first attitude, but we feel very strongly that the Government will listen to our concerns,” he said. Asked if his students were put at a disadvan-
Teachers’ unions oppose plans to have teachers assess 40% of their own students’ work at Junior Cert level
tage from missing a day of school, Beecher said: “I’ve given all my exam classes extra homework and work to do for the day. I know it’s not ideal but hopefully they will use it as a study day.” Minister for Edu-
cation and Skills Jan O’Sullivan said the teachers strike action called by teacher unions was “disproportionate and unnecessary”. “There is no reason to close schools today. The strike will only result in
students missing a day’s teaching, disruption to parents and the loss of a day’s pay for teachers.” She said the dispute would “not be resolved” on the picket line but through “meaningful negotiation”.
6 LUCAN Gazette 29 January 2015
awards
Workers honoured for their dedication and ‘going the extra mile’
Ciprian takes home a tidy prize for work ethic Ian Begley
A Lucan worker has been awarded as an unsung hero for his dedication and strong work ethic at his job. Ciprian Fodor, originally from Romania and now living in Lucan, was among 100 workers hon-
oured for their dedication in the 2015 GEM Awards (Going the Extra Mile), presented last week at the Dunboyne Castle Hotel by business service ISS. The GEM Awards recognise the valuable contribution of employees involved
in business supports such as cleaning, catering, security, pest control and property services. Fodor is a cleaning operative at Ipsen Pharma in Blanchardstown, where he has been working for just over a year. He has impressed both
his bosses and management with his positive attitude and strong work ethic. Fodor was recognised as a man who is not afraid to use his initiative and clean areas that need attention but are not part of his brief. In fact, he often works so hard that he has to
be told by management to slow down. A member of the Irish Women’s Rugby Team, Nora Stapleton, who introduced this year’s awards, said the people who work in maintaining premises and providing essential support services are generally the
unsung heroes of the workplace, whose efficiency can sometimes go unnoticed, but without whom the business could not function. She said: “It is exceptional to see a company like ISS pay tribute to these valuable employees in this way.”
youth: ambassadors
Local graduates are selected for programme King’s Hospital graduates, Louise Lawless and Neil Boles, have been selected to be part of anti-poverty group ON E ’ s p r e s t i g i o u s Youth Ambassador programme. Over 200 candidates applied for the position in Ireland alone and two of the final 15 both hail from Lucan’s King’s Hospital school. The European programme sees young people campaign in their communities, where they lobby their politicians to support decisive action on ending extreme poverty and preventable disease, particularly in Africa. T h e 2 01 5 Yo u t h Ambassador pro-
gramme has added importance, with a number of national and global summits happening this year where world leaders will make major decisions affecting the world’s poorest people. There will be several major international meetings including the G7 Summit in Germany, the Financing for Development Conference in Ethiopia, and the United Nations General Assembly in New York. After six months of tireless campaigning, previous youth ambassadors successfully persuaded 391 MEPs to sign the pledge and commit to working to help the world’s poorest people.
Local anti-water meter groups are set to march again in protest to the introduction of water charges
protest: marches part of a boycott campaign of Irish Water
Anti-water meter groups to hold local marches Ian Begley ibegley@dublingazette.com
Local anti-water meter groups will hold a series of marches in their own vicinities on January 31 in response to the introduction of water charges. These planned marches are part of a national protest that is also due to take place on the same day. Lucan and Clondalkin anti-water meter groups agree this march is part of a boycott campaign of Irish Water with the first bills from the utility due to arrive at people’s doors in the first week of April.
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The Clondalkin Meter Watch’s march will take place from the South Dublin County Council buildings in Clondalkin, starting at 11.30am. The demonstrators will end their march near Balgaddy Park, where they will assemble for a series of speeches and music. T he Lucan Water Meter Watch’s march is set to take place from the Lucan Leisure Centre at 11.20am. Demonstrators will assemble at Ballyowen Park for talks from a number of core antiwater campaigners. Local councillor Gino Kenny (PBP), who will take part in the protest,
‘Considering the size of street meetings in some estates that Irish Water have yet to enter they will face much more opposition’ --------------------------
told The Gazette that this march would send a message to Irish Water and show it that protestors have no intention of ending their campaign. He said: “There has
been huge opposition here, and considering the size of street meetings in some estates that Irish Water have yet to enter they will face much more opposition.” A spokesperson from Irish Water commented on these protest groups saying: “The ability of our staff and installers to carry out their work in a safe environment is a priority to Irish Water. “Irish Water respects the right to protest and endeavours to facilitate this right in so far as is reasonably possible, while maintaining the safety of the staff, the public and the site of work.”
29 January 2015 LUCAN Gazette 7
8 LUCAN Gazette 29 January 2015
ask the politician A weekly Q&A with local representatives looking This week The Gazette asks the politicians: A postcode system is set to come in next year at a cost of €27m, is such a system needed and is spending this amount of money warranted?? Dublin North West TD: Dessie Ellis (SF)
Dublin-Rathdown politician and Senator: Mary White (FF)
There are serious issues regarding Eircode plan
Introduction of a national postal code system represents a vital step forward
The Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources has projected a cost to the State of the project will be in the region of €27m, though others have projected an even higher cost. Normally when a project with a technical specification is being carried out, it is an attempt to fix a clear problem that has been identified. There has been much murmuring from the Department of Communications, Energy and Natural Resources about the lack of a postcode system in Ireland but there has yet to be a definitive answer as to what problem Eircode is addressing. We are told that Ireland is the only OECD country without a postcode system but is addressing this issue a vanity project for the Government or does it provide a specific function? If it is a vanity project, it is a very expensive one and we could not support this. There is already a postcode system in Ireland in place called Loc8. This system is used
by the SatNav company Garmin and by the HSE. This system was offered to the Government free of charge in 2013 but was never availed of. The expected cost on consultation is projected to be in the region of €1.8m according to the Department. Questions remain to be answered as to what level individuals or companies who advised the department at various stages are now involved in the ongoing project management. T here have been serious issues raised by a number of bodies regarding the Eircode
system. The freight industry and the Irish Fire and Emergency Services Association have pointed out a number of problems such as that it is only linked to postal addresses and does not identify small local areas. Eircode will not be on street signs and will therefore most likely only be known to the person living at the specific address. These are major problems which make Eircode seem less necessary than might first appear. Both of these groups say they were not properly consulted.
Whilst I do support the establishment of a national postcode system, I am concerned at the Government’s proposed model which seems to undermine data protection and has been severely criticised by the Freight Transport Association of Ireland and those involved in the emergency services. With Ireland being one of the few developed countries without postcodes, the introduction of a national postcode system is a vital step forward. It will make it easier for consumers to shop online, and will be of great benefit to the high number of businesses now embracing online trade. Without a national postcode system, there is a real danger that postal operators, consumers, businesses and public services will be
at a disadvantage compared to our EU partners. Nevertheless, months from its launch and nearly a full decade since it was first proposed, Eircode is already shrouded in controversy before a single postcode has been issued. The new Eircode system will not be sequential, meaning the codes will be completely random in nature and will bear no relation to neighbouring locations. The emergency services and the Freight Transport Association of Ireland have said that this will cause mass confusion and could be “catastrophic” in terms of sending emergency services to the wrong location. Neither body’s concerns appear to have been listened to. A d d i t i o n a l l y, t h e Data Protection Com-
missioner has repeatedly warned that a code that identifies unique addresses instead of wider areas would pose data protection problems, a statement that should ring alarm bells at Government level. I would hope that the Government has learnt from the Irish Water
debacle and that it will immediately engage with the relevant bodies to address these issues. A postcode system is vital to a developed economy but we cannot face the embarrassing situation of spending millions on a system that is going nowhere.
29 January 2015 LUCAN Gazette 9
at topics that are concentrating minds across the city and county
Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County: Cllr Neale Richmond (FG) Fingal County Council: Cllr Joe Newman (Ind)
South Dublin County Council: Gino Kenny (PBP)
I question such exorbitant It will make the postal costs just to reinvent the wheel service more operational A locational code system, such as the one envisaged, will unlock the potential across Government Departments for use of this spatial data for policy planning. Businesses will find many benefits from the introduction of Eircode, including improved logistics and distribution planning. Will the new system save money for the average person? I doubt it. However the system will facilitate the automatic detection of your property, as each property will have a unique ID. Although sending a letter to A65 B2CD does not conjure up the same pleasant image that an address called Buttercup Cottage does, it looks like the system will help improve efficiency and the regular post will arrive at your home or business a little quicker. One of the welcome benefits of the postal
code is that it will allow emergency services locate dwellings a lot faster. What are the costs and who will foot the bill? Who really knows, but the figure of €27m plus has been mentioned and the taxpayer will be paying as usual. Why the huge cost when there are a number of systems already in existence? I question why we should have such exorbitant costs just reinventing the wheel. Is it fair to land this cost on the taxpayer? Definitely not. Let the businesses that reap the financial rewards put up the money for the costs. What about data protection? Minister Alex White says new legislation may need to be introduced to protect the personal data of individuals. Who does he think he is kidding, the days of privacy are well gone.
There’s always going to be a downside to this. My friend who is a postman told me that the reason for the new system is to ultimately gather information for specific areas and houses. In Britain, where the public have a postal code, the information can tell you exactly where a specific house is. So overall, it’s for efficiency purposes that will make the postal service more operational. You also have to look at the postal service in Ireland and the danger of it becoming a private body, which I would be completely against. I would obviously support a public service such as An Post staying public rather than being open to competition. Obviously when it comes to public money
there is more important things that our taxes can go towards at the moment (such as funding for social homes), but running an efficient postal service is still important. The whole idea of it is to gather information on households and there is concern that the information and data collected will be used or sold to other companies – I think that’s the reason behind it. This postal code will identify the exact house and the postal service is now open to competition across Europe. Ultimately, I believe a State service should stay a State service.
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29 January 2015 LUCAN Gazette 11
12 gazette 29 January 2015
gazetteGALLERY
Eduardo Sastani and Simon Patton
Xpose presenter Lisa Cannon and (below) Fortitude star, actor Richard Dormer. Pictures: Brian McEvoy
Jessica Meehan and Amanda Scales
Stars of the new Sky Atlantic drama Fortitude, Christopher Eccleston and Luke Treadaway. The show, which premiered at the Mansion House, is set around the town of Fortitude in the Arctic Circle, which is the safest town in the world until something awful happens.
drama in The House: Sky Atlantic previews latest offering
Stars show fortitude at a glitzy premiere
Mark and Marie Prenderville
29 January 2015 Gazette 13
escape the mayhem p15
dublinlife
asdfsdaf business P27 P16
Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week
Gazette
diary p14
what’son fundraising volunteers wanted : The
Hotelier and TV personality Francis Brennan: “I’m not a television watcher at all, I listen to the radio.” Picture: Marc O’Sullivan
a day in the life: celebrity hotelier on hating his chicken sandwich lunch
Brennan serves up the secrets of a regular day Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
Known for his witty banter, keen eye and high standards, Francis Brennan is becoming something of a national treasure. The Gazette spoke to the hotelier, author and TV personality recently as he walked us through a day in his life. “I’m out of the bed at 7.15am. While I travel I have time to think and watch the beautiful Kenmare Bay which I pass by. I come into the hotel at around 8.30am or thereabouts and the first thing I do is go to reception and say hello to them all in there. Then I say hello to my breakfast chef and have a little chat with her
because she’s there on her own working hard. Then I say hello to the wash-up boys because nobody ever remembers them. “I’ll go and meet guests coming and going and probably an hour later I have a bit of breakfast which consists of porridge, fresh fruit and a yoghurt. No bread or no wheat. One day a week I would have a fry as a treat; a full-Irish as they call it. Then I always help people with routing on where exactly they might be going, like the Ring of Kerry or the Skelligs. “As reservations are arriving I find out if you want a certain pillow or have a wooden leg and can’t do the stairs
properly. Lunch can be anywhere from 12.30pm until 4pm every day and it’s always the same thing though I hate it and should change it but I don’t. It’s a chicken sandwich on white bread (which it shouldn’t be on) and a pot of tea. “At tea-time I have a meal prepared by the chef which can be anything from veal to chicken to pork which is served in the office on a tray. “My porter comes on at 10.30pm and I hand over to him and from then on I can go home. I do that seven days a week for nine months of the year until January comes and you’ve nothing to do. In the off-season I do all the TV work. “I go home then and when I get into
the house I always read the newspaper cover to cover except for sport. I sit at the kitchen table at an Aga and have a cup of tea. I also make loads of phone calls to America. I’m desperate; I go to bed at 2am. I’m not a television watcher at all, I listen to the radio. I wouldn’t have seen 50% of the At Your Services over the years. I was at home recently and watched television for two nights and thought this is an inane existence. “I said, no forget that now. Before the third night I’d be jumping off a bridge,” he jokes. Brennan is currently championing Bord Bia’s Quality Assured Irish Pork campaign.
Oesophageal Cancer Fund (OCF) is calling for volunteers in Dublin on February 27 and 28 to take part in the 14th annual Lollipop Day to help raise vital funds for oesophageal cancer. Lollipop Day sees thousands of people selling lollipops (€2) nationwide, in an effort to raise awareness and vital funds for oesophageal cancer research. The OCF is asking anyone who has a few hours to spare over February 27 to 28 to get involved and help to raise funds for a good cause. Noelle Ryan, OCF chairperson said: “We are very fortunate to have an ever increasing number of dedicated volunteers, all of whom make Lollipop Day possible and a success every year. “But we still need more volunteers so if anyone or any group is interested in helping out, please contact us on www. lollipopday.ie.” For more information on Lollipop Day; to volunteer or to make a donation, go to www.lollipopday.ie.
14 gazette 29 January 2015
Gazette
dublinlife Padraig gets into the swing of things A lt h o u g h w e l l used to the pressure that comes with taking part in some of the world’s biggest golf tournaments, this week celebrated Irish golfer P a d rai g Harri ngton was feeling stress of a different kind as he took to the Gaiety stage to regale the crowd with tales of his golfing
career. He said when he last did a similar charity event, it took a toll on his nervous system from which it took him six weeks to recover. He said it is not nerves he suffers from when he appears on stage but an excitement so massive it takes him ages to return to his usual cool equi-
librium. There was a packed house on January 20 for the Evening with Pa dra ig Ha rrington and all proceeds from the charity night went towards the ISPCC and the Padraig Harrington Charitable Foundation. Harrington, golf club in hand, also demonstrated how to achieve
DIARY
the perfect swing and afterwards engaged in a Q&A session with members of the audience.
Colin Farrell backs same-sex marriage A recent interview on gay marriage by Castleknock native Collin Farrell on RTE’s Claire Byrne Live reached a wider audience than expected as US talk show host Ellen DeGeneres tweeted the interview to her 38m followers. Farrell was interviewed by Byrne from Los Angeles about the upcoming gay marriage referendum in May. He discussed homophobia in Ireland and told of how his brother was bullied and beaten up in school for being gay. Along with the link to the interview, DeGeneres, who is married to actress Portia DeRossi, tweeted: “Colin Farrell explains his support for marriage equality in a beautiful way. I couldn’t have said it better myself.” Also in America, the Huffington Post ran an article about Farrell’s interview saying: “We love Colin Farrell!”
tea lovers for barry’s advert being sought A r ec r u i t me n t drive for tea lovers to be included in Barry’s Tea Real Character advert is heating up on Instragram. Ireland’s iconic tea company is searching for tea lovers from around Ireland to feature in an ongoing campaign that celebrates the character of its tea and the people who enjoy it.
Golfer Padraig Harrington at the Gaiety Theatre for An Evening with Padraig Harrington. Picture: Arthur Carron
Following its launch, Instragram has been bubbling over with wannabe characters posting their pictures of a tea moment. It can be themselves with their favourite mug, on a walk with a thermos-cup or sharing a pot of tea with friends – any tea moment can be captured. The response so far has seen people having a tea moment on their own, with friends, family, kids and even pets are getting involved. For a chance to feature in the nationwide campaign, fans of Barry’s are being asked to upload a photo of a tea moment to Instagram, tagging it #BarrysCharacter Find out more about the campaign by visiting
w w w.facebook.com/ barrystea.
Councillor apologises for page 3 tweet How th councillor Keith Redmond (FG) landed himself in hot water recently over a Tweet he made about the rumours of the Sun newspaper’s decision to discontinue its trademark topless page three model photos. The councillor tweeted: “Good work feminazis, you just made lots of fellow women unemployed because their work offended you.” He later apologised and deleted the tweet after people such as Mar y McAuliffe — a UCD lecturer in women’s studies and presi-
dent of the Women’s History Association of Ireland responded to it saying: “To my sister feminazis - congrats on the big win here. Obviously we are always out to destroy female careers!” She also prodded Cllr Redmond saying: “A lesson in how a tweet can seriously damage a political career, well done.” In response to a tweet from fellow Cllr Justin Sinnott (Ind) asking if he was “on a wind up”, Cllr Redmond said: “I can’t stand the sanctimonious.” He eventually apologised saying: “Re earlier tweet. Apologies. Deleted.” But as we all know, this one won’t be deleted from people’s memories!
29 January 2015 Gazette 15
escape the mayhem: novelist’s break
Amanda’s happy to be ‘in danger’ keith bellew
N OV E L I S T, e v e n t host and TV personality Amanda Brunker is currently starring in her own reality show on TV3, Danger – Amanda at Work (right), which sees her rolling up her sleeves and working in some of the toughest, most physically demanding professions there are. This week, The Gazette spoke with Amanda about what she does to escape the mayhem of her busy career. She said that her favourite means of escape
is her writing: “On a dayto-day basis, I can think of nothing better than sitting down and writing, and that’s all I actually want to do but life keeps getting in the way.” “My ‘happy place’ is literally just being at my computer and just having the time [to write], because then I get to be in a fantasy world. “As a fiction writer, you get to have affairs, you can be as naughty as you like, you never get into trouble with anybody because, at the end of the day, it’s just imagining stuff and creat-
ing stuff in your head and none of it is real.” Going out for walks with her dog is another way in which she gets away from it all. She said: “I rescued [rehoused] a greyhound recently, and I live beside UCD, which is quite lucky so I get to walk [the grounds of] UCD almost every day. Me and the dog just head off into the distance, and I get away from the kids, the phone, dirty dishes and all the rest of it.” Danger – Amanda at Work airs on TV3 on Thursdays at 9pm.
Gazette
ESCAPE THE MAYHEM
Gazette
16 Gazette 29 January 2015
dublinlife
Hayley Purtill-Quin, educogym
Trainer’s holistic approach gives clients support for better result AS A senior trainer in Educogym in Dundrum, Hayley Purtill-Quin has been with the company for almost three years and has a strong client base. She offers personally-tailored training and nutrition programmes. Purtill-Quin is in her third year studying nutritional therapy and thoroughly enjoyed bringing the holistic approach to the health and fitness industry. Educogym has five branches: Dundrum, DockHow long have you been in business?
We have been open in Dundrum since July, 2009, so we are in our sixth year of business. We have just finished a record year for the business and are excited to recreate that success for 2015. We also have gyms in Blackrock, Docklands, Naas and the K-Club.
What makes your business successful?
We take a unique holistic approach with our clients and pride ourselves on providing excellent customer service to every client who walks through the door. We are completely focused on results and our sole purpose is to help people realise and
achieve their goals. What do you offer your clients that differs from your competitors?
A vital factor in the results achieved is the role of the mind. It was found that when a person has a clear mental blueprint in their mind of their ideal physique, they trained with greater intensity. At Educogym, our clients are trained in this unique mental approach to produce amazing results, using a holistic approach that ties together our expertise in training, nutrition and mindset.
What is the best piece of business advice you have received?
Surround yourself
business
Q&A
lands, Blackrock, Naas and the K-Club. Purtill-Quin can be contacted at Educogym Dundrum at 01 275 2000, ext 2. For further information on Educogym, see www.educogym.com, or Facebook.com/myeducogym. with like-minded people. I think applying this philosophy can really help business progression and success. How do you use social media to help your business?
We use Facebook to showcase the great results we get with our clients, using before and after pictures. On our kickstart 12-day programme, the average result is 7lbs of fat loss and 3lbs of muscle gain, and we like to use social media to inspire others.
What is your favourite thing about doing business in your local area?
Dundrum is such a diverse area, and I get to help so many different people achieve results. My client list ranges
from Leaving Cert students to the over-60s. What is your ambition for the business?
We are so happy with the growth of the business over the past six years and we would like Educogym to be regarded as the premier place to go for anybody looking to achieve health and fitness goals.
What living person do you admire most?
I do not admire just one person, but a lot of the people around me. Every day, I admire my clients with their focus and dedication that they show. Taking the first step towards making a change in your life is not easy and it is an admirable trait.
€1.55bn invested in real estate in Q4 A TOTAL of €1.55bn was invested in Irish real estate in the fourth quarter (Q4) of 2014, recent research by Jones Lang Lasalle (JLL, a financial and professional services firm that specialises in commercial real estate services and investment) has revealed. Q4 was the strongest quarter of the year, and total year-end volumes were €4.54bn, which is a 25% increase on the previous peak in 2006 (€3.63bn). In total, there were 295 retail property transactions nationally in 2014, compared to 145 in 2013 and 121 in 2006. There were 15 transactions greater than €100m
in 2014, compared to three in 2013. The study also shows that Dublin remains the dominant region, accounting for 72% of volumes in 2014. However, with the 2013 figure totalling 87%, it is evident that activity has broadened outside of Dublin. Retail is expected to be the strongest-performing asset class in 2015, as there has been a number of large-scale provincial shopping centre sales in the past six months. Speaking at the end of 2014, Hannah Dwyer, head of research, JLL Dublin, said: “2014 has been
a very active year for the property market. “The turnaround for investments has been remarkable, with an uplift in the supply of assets coming onto the market, strong demand from investors and increases in values and returns. “Essentially, we have seen a pent-up surge of workout activity with willing sellers and buyers in the market. “We do not expect activity to be at the same record levels we saw in 2014, but investment volumes are likely to achieve €3bn. This is still significantly ahead of the 10-year average of €1.4bn,” she said.
Bride Groom JANUARY 29, 2015
Let The Gazette help make your wedding day extra special and guarantee you have happy memories to share with friends and family in the years to come
GAZETTE
29 January 2015 GAZETTE 17
WHAT TO WEAR:
Divine gowns and accessories to suit the most stylish guest Page 18
VENUES:
Find the perfect place to say ‘ I do’ Pages 22-24
TRULY GIFTED:
Thoughtful presents that will be cherished Pages 25-26
Lovely! Isn’t she
The style radar is on Hollywood glamour with Johanna Johnson’s timeless, enchanting dresses SEE PAGE 20
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asdf dasf dasf dfsa fdsaf dasf dsaf das Pages XX-XX
Gazette
18 Gazette 29 January 2015
Bride Groom
| dressed to the nines |
How to be a most stylish guest
laura webb
wear it once because the next wedding you are at involved the same wedding
DRESSING for a wedding is just as hard
guests? Judging by our Gazette office
for the guest as it is for the bride but
hands - it’s one too many.
with stores like Covet, where you can
Renting a dress is a perfect alterna-
rent a gown, this task can be made that
tive if you want to go all out without
little bit easier.
having to spend the cash. Here are just
Hands up who has been to a wedding, spent a fortune on a dress only to
some of the dresses available to rent at Covet, Powerscourt.
Pistachio Rachel Gilbert Adrianna dress, €165 to borrow for three days at Covet
Blush jersey Badgley Mischka dress, €165 to borrow for three days at Covet
Pearl and yellow gold earrings at John Brereton Jewellers €125
Pale pink chiffon slingback with embellishment by Menbur at Fabucci.ie €129
Navy cap sleeve Badgley Mischka dress, €165 to borrow for three days at Covet
Making your day BIG with original favours Some people won’t want to
Wedding favours are a great way
favours, as a sure way to deplete
for the bride and groom to show
the budget especially if a large
deviate from the old tradition of
their appreciation to their guests
gathering is expected. One way to
confectionery, but rather than
for helping to celebrate their big
cut costs and give a wedding an
buying countless boxes of luxury
day. The main things to consider
extra personal touch is to provide
chocolates, or sugared almonds
when deciding on wedding favours
homemade wedding favours.
baking your own cookies, or cup-
are: budget, the number of guests
Edible favours are quite popu-
cakes etc will enable you to save
lar: chocolates, sugared almonds
money and give you the opportu-
Many people choose to give
and other varieties of confec-
nity of personalising them with
small tote bags with little trinket
tionery have been a standard
the theme of your wedding.
type gifts such as wedding
since Victorian times (among the
themed key-rings. Some people
wealthy at least). But nowadays
favours, which will allow you to
like to give toiletries such as
in our health conscious age, fruit
thank your guests and support a
scented heart-shaped soaps,
wedding favours are popular.
worthy cause at the same time is
and mini perfume or aftershave
Many couples provide oranges,
to make a donation in their name
bottles.
apples, peaches, or pears for
to a charitable organisation.
and the shelf life of the item.
Modern weddings are often
each guest. Dried fruit and nut
Another option for wedding
Many charities have a system
about adding a bit of originality
mixes are also quite popular and
set up for this and will provide
and personality to the big day,
also more practical as they last
you with tent cards for all the
and wedding favours can be a
longer. This option also allows
tables at your wedding recep-
great way to reflect the taste of
for more originality by providing
tion informing your guests
the couple.
them in little personalised couple
about your donation on their
themed bags or boxes.
behalf.
Many people view wedding
29 January 2015 Gazette 19
GAZETTE
20 GAZETTE 29 January 2015
Bride Groom
| FINDING YOUR BRIDAL STYLE |
Johanna Johnson
Dress The
JOHANNA Johnson is the latest designer to launch her collection at the Knightsbridge Boutique, Powerscourt Townhouse Dublin. Specialising in inspirational bridal and couture gowns, Johnson is known for her sophisticated Hollywood glamour and timeless appeal. Johnson will join a range of other internationally renowned designers at Knightsbridge including, Jenny Packham, Lulu Frost, Lele Sadoughi, Alex Monroe, and Jennifer Behr. See www. knightsbridge boutique.com ON THE COVER: The Johanna Johnson Garland Crown
YOU have the ring, the venue and, of course, the
husband-to-be so the next big thing on the list is none other than the wedding dress. Dress budgets range for each individual and it’s usually the first thing you’ll be asked when taking to bridal stores to choose “the one”. But don’t worry, with various price tags and offers you’ll find a dream dress within your price range. Try different styles, although you may have one dress in mind, chances are you try on something completely different and end up falling in love all over again. Enjoy dress shopping with those close to you and be prepared for some happy tears when that dress is finally found.
Barnardos Bridal Room
Brides-to-be can cut costs and choose from a stunning selection of brand new dresses at a fraction of their high street cost at the Bridal Rooms in Dun Laoghaire and Wexford. All profits go to support Barnardos’ vital work with children and families in Ireland. See www.barnardos.ie/bridal for more information.
29 January 2015 Gazette 21
Let them eat cake – but only the best with delicious Crannah Crannah Cakes in
with an idea she
North Dublin is whip-
will take it and run
ping up a storm with its
with it.
delicious cakes for all occasions thanks to its founder, Jo Murphy.
Regent Tuxedo Hire €80 Buy €295 at Aston Formal Hire
Since a young age, Jo
extra effort into
sionate about cakes.
making sure each
It all started when an
cake is memorable. caters for all occa-
and only her - because
sions including
of her flair for baking.
weddings, birthand confirmations.
perfected many recipes
Whatever style,
by finding the right ingredients, as
shape or design it will be crafted by
well as finding ways for the ingredi-
Murphy who will incorporate her own
ents to complement each other.
ideas along the way. and with many different flavour
through her creations.
combinations, Murphy guarantees to
her two god children, Hannah and Caragh.
The Loft ‘Lynn Millar’ ivory satin beret with veiling and hand-beaded Swarovski pearl butterfly €155
| accessories | Nude court shoes at Cinders Shoe Heaven €139.95
Triple-strand pearl bracelet with Swarovski crystal at theparisianbride.ie €76
Cushion cut stud earrings from CM Weldon at the Powerscourt Centre
Taste is also high on the cake list
at Sugarcraft, skills that are shining Crannah cakes was named after
Petrol blue double-breasted waistcoat €40 at River Island
days, communions
phy has developed and
She has recently become skilled
Bond Brothers 3839 double-breasted, silver Prestige waistcoat RRP €85 Rental €35
Crannah Cakes
was passed onto her -
Over the years Mur-
| well groomed |
what each customer needs and puts
Murphy has been pas-
old family baking recipe
Bond Brothers 3780 Wilvorst prestige navy lounge jacket with matching trousers
Murphy spends time finding out
satisfy any tastebuds. Crannah Cakes is based in north County Dublin, close to the airport.
According to Murphy, copying
For more information see its Face-
other designs is not something she
book page at Facebook.com/Cran-
practises so if someone comes to her
nahCakes or phone 086 160 0880.
GAZETTE
22 GAZETTE 29 January 2015
Bride Groom The perfect | SELECTING THE VENUE |
Want to leave the city behind and take in country charms? No problem! A wide range of stunning hotels offers plenty of choice. For that glorious wedding or an intimate civil ceremony, you’ll say: ‘I do ... want to celebrate my Big Day there ...’ Dunboyne Castle Hotel
Add more than a dash of luxury to your big day by hosting your wedding at idyllic Dunboyne Castle Hotel and Spa
IF YOU are thinking of having your wedding in a more rural and natural setting, away from the hustle of the city, then Dunboyne Castle Hotel and Spa offers just such an idyllic retreat close to Dublin. Dunboyne Castle Hotel is situated in the heartland of Meath, famous for its rich green countryside, while still on Dublin’s doorstep. The venue offers acres of stunning landscaped grounds, a luxurious spa, spacious bedrooms and boasts a fine reputation for quality food and service. The grounds feature magnificent landscaped gardens, and an impressive, sweeping tree-lined approach complete with historic architecture to guarantee an elegant backdrop for your special day. The manicured gardens also have a charming oldworld gazebo which is perfect for wedding photographs. The hotel’s dedicated
staff pride themselves on offering unobtrusive yet uncompromising service and the wherewithal to facilitate your every wish on the big day. For the reception, the hotel’s stunning Tara Suite, with floor-to-ceiling windows, will set a tone of glamourous luxury to the top table. It is also a fully air-conditioned ballroom with its own bar and has been specially designed to suit any wedding party’s colour scheme. Dunboyne Castle Hotel and Spa features 141 oversized modern guest rooms and four suites, including a gorgeous bridal suite. The hotel is also an ideal venue not only for marriages but also for civil ceremonies. For more information on Dunboyne Castle Hotel, you can attend their wedding fair on February 22, 1pm to 5pm, contact them at 01 801 3500, or email events@ dunboynecastlehotel. com. You can also see their website at www.dunboynecastle-hotel.com.
Trim Castle Hotel provides an elegant mix of modern and antique charms
Trim Castle Hotel THE Trim Castle Hotel wedding fair will take place on Sunday, February 22 , 2pm to 5pm, giving couples an opportunity to view the facilities and see what’s on offer. The Great Hall banqueting suite will be fully set for a wedding on the day and there will be an array of suppliers in attendance. Trim Castle Hotel, in the Boyne Valley Region, nestles in pleasant, tranquil surroundings and is an excellent venue in
which to tie the knot. It is a registered venue for civil ceremonies as well. The hotel overlooks the ancient Trim Castle and the adjoining lawns of St Patrick’s Church, the picturesque views and the heritage of the area add an extra charm to the venue. The combination of the ancient castle with contemporary standards of food and decor gives a wedding a mixed aura of a modern and antique air.
29 January 2015 Gazette 23
place for saying ‘I do’ The floor-to-ceiling windows of the Great Hall banqueting suite and pre-function area allow a great view of the castle and church lawns. The roof-top garden on the third floor provides an excellent backdrop for wedding photography, with views over the grounds of Trim Castle and the surrounding area. At Trim Castle Hotel, the wedding team commits to personal and professional attention in the planning and preparation of your special celebration. All wedding packages
including seasonal and mid-week packages, offer complimentary consultancy and planning with experienced wedding coordinators, red carpet and champagne reception for the bridal party on arrival, and tea, coffee and homemade biscuits for all wedding guests in the Castle View suite. Other perks include: floral centrepieces for all tables, wedding cake stand and silver cake knife for use on the day, and a complimentary stay for the bride and groom in one of the deluxe rooms with a champagne breakfast the following
morning, For further information see www.trimcastlehotel. com.
Radisson Blu St Helen’s Hotel R adisson Blu St Helen’s Hotel in Blackrock will host a wedding open evening on Sunday, February 7, at which visitors can tour the 18th century mansion and private garden, 4pm to 8pm. Visitors will be greeted with a warm welcome including a glass of complimentary bubbly on arrival and can also sample some of the executive chef’s choice of wedding
menus. These menus feature the finest and freshest of local produce while drawing on the expert culinary secrets of some of the best master chefs available. St Helen’s boasts the highest standards of cuisine and those who wish to have their wedding there can choose from a variety of dining options. Each private room will be set up as it could appear on the big day, giving visitors the opportunity to picture their very own wedding reception. The wedding team will be on hand to field questions as will the wedding
Radisson Blu St Helen’s Hotel is also a beautiful venue for civil ceremonies
coordinator, who will offer professional and friendly advice. Those who wish to make an appointment in advance can contact
Zuzana Hasler at 01 218 6054 or email Zuzana. hasler@radissonblu.com Those who book their wedding date at the wedding open evening will
receive a free guest prosecco reception and toast. For more information on Radisson Blu St Helens see www.radissonblu. ie/sthelenshotel-dublin.
GAZETTE
24 GAZETTE 29 January 2015
Bride Groom
| SELECTING THE VENUE |
Taking vows in must-have spot Continued from Page 23
Headfort Arms Hotel THE secret is out – the award-winning Headfort Arms in Kells is fast becoming the must-have venue for a dream wedding. In the expert hands of the next generation of the Duff family, there has been a big surge in the number of people embracing civil and humanist wedding ceremonies there. The civil ceremonies
are hosted in the surrounds of the beautiful mature gardens at the Headfort. The gardens are so much in demand that the hotel has launched a new garden entrance for 2015 for weddings as well as a barbecue area. Fully inclusive packages start at €39.95pp, or intending couples can choose the fully-inclusive package at €9,990 for 150 persons, which includes everything they could dream of. Still embracing tradi-
tion, there are wonderful two-day weekend packages available, which include a garden party with pig-on-the spit, or a garden barbecue for the following day. This year there will also be a launch of the hotel’s Kells Belles luxury package, or the Festive Frills package specially tailored for Christmas and New Year’s winter weddings The promise of one wedding per day is still something the Duff family pride themselves
on, so wedding parties have exclusive use of the Georgian-style ballroom and facilities, beautiful gardens, private car-park, bespoke accommodation and freshly-carved food from local suppliers prepared in front of guests, which forms part of the hotel’s Guaranteed Irish charter. Most of all, the Headfort is all about its people, its warm Irish welcome, and the family feeling it offers, as it has been looking after families for generations. This hotel can cater for weddings suitable for 50 to 300 guests. For further information, call 046 924 0063, or see www.headfortarms.ie
Waterside House Hotel BRIDES- and grooms-tobe with a love of the sea can set their own romantic wedding against the backdrop of the north County Dublin coastline in the Waterside House Hotel. This idyllic location offers spectacular views of the Irish Sea, with Lambay Island, Howth Head and Ireland’s Eye in the background. The Waterside House Hotel is the most romantic spot for the bride, groom and guests to drink in the beauty of the Dublin coastline and is ideal for photographs to ensure a stunning wedding album. The hotel prides itself on ensuring all of the happy couple’s highest expectations are met on the day, so that the memory of their wedding will last for decades to come. The Waterside Hotel is located right on Donabate Beach and has 35 bed-
Waterside House Hotel has a wonderful setting by the north County Dublin coastline, with Donabate beach adding to the hotel’s ample charms
rooms. The atmosphere in the hotel is warm and intimate, while also suiting any sized wedding party from 10 guests to 240 guests. There is also a beautiful sea view terrace overlooking the beach, which is ideal for hosting either the wedding ceremony itself or pre-reception wedding celebrations. For the reception, the Martello Ballroom is elegance itself, with hand-made chandeliers, a private bar and a fairy lights-lit backdrop. For information on The Waterside House Hotel’s wedding packages, you can email weddings@ watersidehousehotel.ie, or call Jessica at 01 8436153.
Avon Ri Wedding Resort AVON Ri Wedding Resort in Wicklow provides the perfect ambience for couples and their guests for their big day. Situated in the spectacular Wicklow countryside, and perched on the shores of Blessington
Lake, the resort commands some of the most beautiful views in Ireland, and provides a stunning scenic backdrop for the perfect wedding venue. Avon Ri offers its guests luxury townhouse selfcatering accommodation, a lake-view bar with a rooftop terrace and a lake-view restaurant, along with a highly reputable adventure centre, which offers an extensive range of outdoor activities and leisure facilities including a swimming pool and gym, which is situated in a breathtaking lakeshore setting spread across nine acres of land. The Wicklow resort prides itself on the personal touch and its wedding co-ordinator will be there every step of the way to ensure that a couple’s special day is planned to perfection so that they know they can relax. Some of the compliments Avon Ri will offer the bride and groom during their stay include prewedding menu tasting; champagne on arrival;
complimentary overnight accommodation; a champagne breakfast, and a red carpet display on arrival. There will also be special accommodation rates for their guests, landscaped gardens for photographs, complimentary hire of the wedding venue suite, flowers and candles on tables, souvenir menu cards, a silver cake stand and knife, and ample car parking. As an added bonus, the Avon Ri Wedding Resort package includes a strict one wedding per day policy, a complimentary dinner in the resort’s lake-view restaurant on the couple’s first wedding anniversary, and a professional team on hand to help the intending couples every step of the way. Avon Ri is a four-star resort and welcomes civil ceremonies, celebrations and blessings. For further information, contact Laura, the resort’s wedding co-ordinator, at 045 900 670, or email lstopforth@avonri. com.
29 January 2015 Gazette 25
| presents for big day|
Personal touch can make gifts extra special When attending the
one must remember that
wedding of a close friend,
practicality is the key to a
you are inevitably faced
great wedding gift.
with the age-old question:
A mix of the two is an
What gift should you give?
ideal way of demonstrat-
There are, of course,
thought into it while still
as kettles, coffee makers,
giving something that the
china sets, furniture and
couple will find useful.
linen, but chances are
this is by giving a person-
more of these than they
alised version of some-
can use, so liaising with
thing practical. Many
other wedding guests
shops provide this option
to find out who’s getting
but there are also numer-
what is always advisable.
ous niche shops where
Most people will want to give something original
that the award-winning Headfort Arms Hotel offers
but, at the same time,
Moss.ie Guest thumbprint tree €14.95
One way of achieving
that couples will receive
Couples-to-be are invited to Kells, to discover all
Littlewoods Ireland Personalised love cushion €20
ing that you put some
the old standards such
you can find the ideal gift.
Continued on Page 26
Rua Dublin Mr and Mrs egg cups €5.95
Gazette
26 Gazette 29 January 2015
Bride Groom
Square Cheeseboard at Slated €35
Amanda Murphy Ceramics at the Design and Crafts Council – Ripple bowl €150 Rose heart-shaped mirror €95 at Littlewoods Ireland
Gift guide for the
Continued from Page 25
Personalised items engraved with “Mr & Mrs Whoever” are a good choice. Some good ideas for this include practical household items like: coffee mugs, photo frames / albums, crockery, sofa cushions, welcome mats and wedding memory boxes. Some of these items engraved with personalised phrases that reflect the relationship or personalities of the couple is another way to go.
happy couple
Some people might prefer to give basic, useful gifts in a less domestic vein. A voucher can work well for this kind of gift. Vouchers for a romantic restaurant or activity can be ideal. If the newlyweds are a bit strapped for cash and can’t afford an exotic honeymoon, a voucher for a weekend trip or hotel stay is a great gift. Pooling together with other friends of the couple to pay for a short getaway is a very thoughtful way of treating them.
Give the gift of a relaxing getaway at Wineport Lodge in Athlone. See www.irelands-blue-book.ie for voucher details.
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
29 January 2015 Gazette 27
collins barracks: untold stories of WW1 unfold
Anu takes us back in time to Gallipoli Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
A new site-specific play by Anu Productions, which brings the experience of Irish soldiers in World War 1 to life before your very eyes in the National Museum of Ireland, Collins Barracks, begins a run this February. Pals - The Irish at Gallipoli is a site-specific performance that relates the untold stories of the 7th Battalion of Royal Irish
Fusiliers at Gallipoli during World War 1. The Gazette spoke to Catriona Crowe director of special projects at the National Archives, about the Pals project. “Anu brings people into buildings where things happened, like a tenement house in Henrietta Street and, to some extent, recreates what may have happened there many years ago. World War 1 is now a gigantic matter of interest to the
people of Ireland. Everyone has suddenly discovered their ancestors from World War 1 having forgotten about them for a good 78 years because it wasn’t fashionable or politically correct. “It’s important that we deal with that need properly, accurately, historically and authentically and they’re the things Anu does properly. “[Visitors] will get an understanding of what it was like to be a soldier-in-
training in World War 1 in 1915. They were largely Redmondite nationalists heeding Redmond’s call to fight for small nations. The ones we’re focusing on mostly in this are called the PALS where people came together through sporting or occupational interests and join companies together and in this case the interest was rugby. “A lot of the members of D Company of the 7th Battalion, the 10th divi-
Pals will give audiences a vivid glimpse into the life and death of a brotherhood of players who were wiped out in the devastating trenches
sion, were people who played rugby together in various schools in Leinster, the Brian O’Driscolls of their day.” Lar Joyce, curator and military historian at Collins Barracks, said: “We have a huge number of exhibitions dealing with
the history of Irish soldiery and this takes it to the next level by bringing the emotion into it.” Running from February 3 to April 30 at the National Museum of Ireland, Decorative Arts and History, Collins Barracks, admission is
€5 and weekly performances run on the hour from 11am to 4pm with a break for lunch. Weekend performances are at 2pm, 3pm and 4pm. For more information and tickets, you can go to www.pals-theirishatgallipoli.com
Gazette
28 Gazette 29 January 2015
OUT&ABOUT
Men’s t-shirt €10
Women’s performance vest €15
Heaton’s Azzurri range (Men’s) Mesh trainer €22.50, jacket €20, Shorts €10
Women’s two-tone trainer €20
laura webb
take fashion in your stride
Men’s gilet €22.50
Women’s performance long sleeve top €15
Women’s leggings €18
THE keep-fit regime is in full swing this January, but it doesn’t mean we have to stop there and, thankfully, Heaton’s is helping to keep us fit as well as slimming down the credit card bill. Buying sports gear isn’t high on the fashion shopping list, but it’s something that needs to be done now and again. If you look the part, you are going to feel the part, so get sporty! This year, Heaton’s welcomes its new Performance Azzurri range for men and women, available in store and online now. Exclusive to Heaton’s, this range has always been strong on price but this year’s
Azzurri range is even stronger, with antiwicking, quick drying and breathable materials available in exciting designs and really vibrant colours. Prices start from €10 for men’s shorts, and T-shirts. The new Azzurri range offers female fitness lovers cuttingedge performance spor tswear with strong colours, durability and comfort. Extra support is needed for the hardcore fitness fanatic, and the sports bra (€10) will give you that. Embrace the cold weather with the gilet (€22.50), sure to keep the walkers warm this January, while the two-tone trainers (€20) complete your workout wardrobe. This week, Gazette Style takes a look at this sporty range.
29 January 2015 Gazette 29
Infinity Sterling silver, zirconia white, dark blue ring €198
ZigZag Sterling silver blackened, zirconia black, Onyx ring €239
Sublime Sabo sparkles THOMAS Sabo’s Irish brand ambassador, Aoibhinn McGinnity, was on hand to showcase the new collection for spring/ summer 2015 at the Marker Hotel recently. The actress was in high spirits and sparkled just as brightly as the jewellery itself at the launch. The new collection combines feminine elegance with graphic preci-
sion and oriental inspiration. Minimalist shapes, ultra-feminine statement pieces and dreamy gemstones in white, blue and pink each feature in the new Thomas Sabo, Glam & Soul collection. Speaking about her favourite ranges, McGinnity said: “The Karma collection from Thomas Sabo has really expanded this year. I love the Karma
collection as it allows you to create your own personal style – each bead has a meaning, which means my jewellery is very personal. “I have always loved the Rebel at Heart collection, too. It’s quite ‘rocker’ and rebellious, and I love that look. The new Katmandu range combines this rebel look with elegance and, in particu-
lar, I love the rings and earrings,“ she said. The Kathmandu series is inspired by a variety of shapes with striking and unusual elements taken from Buddhist culture to create a new, expressive look. The unique designs in the B line are equally stunning. Other lines include The Purity of Lotos, featuring lotos pendants, and the
Purity of Lotos Sterling silver, zirconia white, milky quartz pendant €498
Maharani Sterling silver, 18k rose gold plating, rose quartz, milky quartz, zirconia white ring €498
Karma beads range from €19 to €149 each
Gazette
STYLE
Actress Aoibhinn McGinnity, Thomas Sabo’s Irish brand ambassador, who launched and praised its new spring/summer 2015 collection
Indian royal palace-influenced line, the Maharani, that create unique and majestic jewellery statements.
The new collection for spring/summer 2015 is available now at Thomas Sabo shops and shopin-shops, independent
jewellers, online at www. thomassabo.com, and Thomas Sabo counters at Arnotts and House of Fraser Dundrum.
Gazette
30 Gazette 29 January 2015
OUT&ABOUT
fast
TRAVEL Get away for summer
WITH a choice of 68 camping parks across Europe and 22 luxury mobile homes, Crystal Alfresco are offering a wide range of family holiday packages for people looking to get away this summer. Head to resorts such as Lake Garda, Brittany, the Costa Brava and the Cote d’Azur and stay in parks with facilities such as swimming pools, kids clubs and a choice of outdoor activities. For further information, see www. crystalalfresco.ie.
TRAVEL
special offers: many of europe’s most desirable cities are calling
Hop to it to grab a great weekend ...
ian begley
DREAMING of an exciting few days away that ticks all of the boxes? Why not treat yourself to an incredible getaway in one of the wide range
of weekend offers available? Gohop.ie are offering amazing value on weekend breaks away in some of the most distinguished cities in Europe. Spend three nights in
a three-star hotel in Barcelona from only €133pp with return flights on February 22. A three-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. In Portugal, spend three nights in a four-star hotel in Lisbon from only €118pp with return flights on March 1. Lisbon is Europe’s second-oldest capital (after Athens), and is one of Europe’s most captivating and picturesque capitals, built on a series of hills with scenic views from every angle. Lisbon offers all the delights you would expect from a trip to Portugal, such as Gothic cathedrals, majestic monasteries and quaint museums, which are all part of the colourful cityscape. The city has become an increasingly popular place to visit in recent years, with a warm Mediterranean climate, perfect for those looking to get away from the cold Irish weather. Full of bleached white limestone buildings and intimate alleyways, Lisbon’s mix of traditional architecture and con-
Barcelona’s Templo del Sagrado Corazon de Jesus dazzles in Spain
temporary culture makes it the perfect place for a family holiday. Even exploring the city centre will take a few days out of a family holiday, as there is no real central district, while in downtown Lisbon, the Gulbenkian – which is Portugal’s answer to the British Museum – is full of fascinating cultural artefacts with some superb gardens in its grounds. In Madrid, spend two nights in a four-star hotel from only €155pp with flights leaving on June 19. Madrid, which boasts a renowned setting for culture, food and nightlife, makes the city stand out amongst many other European capitals. An attraction for many art lovers and culinary buffs, Madrid has evolved into a city that has embraced everything that Spain has to offer. On the other hand, Amsterdam’s gentle canals make a perfect backdrop for exploring the Jordaan and Rembrandtplein square, and a visit to The Anne Frank House and the Van Gogh Museum is an experience that you can’t afford to miss. Those hoping to get away for a city break can spend two nights in Amsterdam in a four-star
Get an Eiffel of Paris (top) from just €267pp, or again, in Barcelona, check the interior of the stunning Sagrada Familia church
hotel from only €184pp, with flights leaving on February 13. A two-day getaway to Paris will certainly shake off any remaining postChristmas blues that you may have. Spend two nights in a four- star hotel from only €267pp with flights leaving on February 13. Any trip to Paris must include a visit to The Louvre, Notre Dame and
The Eiffel Tower, along with the city’s grand boulevards and cafes, bistros and brasseries. And don’t forget the shopping—whether your tastes run to Louis Vuitton or Les Puces (the flea market)! For further information, or to book any of these deals, see www.Gohop. ie or call GoHop.ie at 01 241 2389.
29 January 2015 GAZETTE 31
THE TEMPORARY GENTLEMAN: A TALE OF INTENSE, IRRATIONAL LOVE
A hard read, but worth it
BAIRBRE NI BHRAONAIN
THE third novel by author Sebastian Barry, The Temporary Gentleman is a slow-burner (like The Secret Scripture), and it is not until almost the halfway mark that the story really ignites. The second half of the novel packs in plenty of adventure and drama, set in deepest Africa, rural Sligo and Dublin. Barry is a good storyteller with a penchant for poetic phrase which is sometimes quite beautiful and at other times simply odd. His prose can be unclear at times before
he settles into his narrative groove. An example of his poetic description is when he calls the stars above the open sea “the sombre philosophical lights of God above”. The Temporary Gentleman is a fascinating read once it gets going. Jack Nulty is a UN observer, who also serves in both World Wars as an officer and is a civil engineer. He spends the majority of the novel in Accra in Ghana, building bridges and roads and back home in Sligo doing the same for the Land Commission. He falls in love with and marries Mai Kirwan – a clever and unique girl
from a very good Galway family, whom he meets at university. To say Jack is uxurious is to really understate it – he is obsessed with his wife to such a degree that she is constantly under his eye and he places her on such a high pedestal that he cannot see who she really is. The relationship is a doomed and tragic love affair full of massive highs and subterranean lows. The couple persists in staying together, despite all evidence that Mai and Jack are no good for each other. They end up caught in an eternal cycle of alcohol, physical abuse and
recrimination. It is a hard read at times, because just when it seems that there might be a fresh start and some way forward for the couple, they end up back at square one. Yet, Barry is very good at describing relationships and his insights smack of personal experience. He defines love, for instance, as “like holding an opinion that all the world seeks to refute”, which also betrays the stubbornness of their continued union. Barry also has a wonderful knack of embedding a character’s identity into the world around
him. Jack is a tailor’s son, and his voice narrates the story. When Mai’s father dies, Barry uses Jack’s paternal background to create an excellent image of his mother-in-law’s grief. She is “silent as if grief had sewn her mouth with a cruel stitch”. The Temporary Gentleman is an original, tragic and beautiful work which will leave readers fully satisfied and grateful to have known Jack and Mai. Published by Faber & Faber, The Temporary Gentleman is on the shelves now, priced €8.47.
Sebastian Barry’s third novel, The Temporary Gentleman (above), is a demanding but ultimately rewarding read
GAZETTE
ARTS
Gazette
32 Gazette 29 January 2015
OUT&ABOUT
CINEMA
into the woods A Grimm experience
Taken 3
3nough is enough, Liam! THE first Taken film turned Liam Neeson into an unlikely action star – however, Taken 3 (Cert 12A, 103 mins) sees the series reach its nadir, with a particularly unlikely plot that sees Bryan Mills (Neeson) on the run in a desperate, increasingly violent bid to save his daughter ... again. It’s a suitable addition to the Taken franchise but, much like the recent Hobbit films, three is just too much ...
IT’S been a reasonable hit, as Into The Woods (Cert PG, 124 mins) sees a wide cast of A-listers and lesser-known actors take to the woods to sing their cotton socks off in this bigscreen adaptation of a hit Broadway musical based on classic fairytales. However, while the likes of Meryl and Depp gamely do their best, the songs aren’t especially memorable, making it one you could skip right past.
whiplash
Drumming up a hit DRUMS – the bane of a thousand neighbourhoods – are at the heart of this film, but Whiplash (Cert 15A, 106 mins) bashes out an intense, engrossing story that rat-atat-tats along, building to a masterful clilmax. Cruelty, determination and raw power combine to create a pitch-perfect tale of pure musical talent, with veteran actor JK Simmons colliding with Miles Teller to create a terrific title.
The unlikely friendship between teenage genius Hiro and his inflatable robot pal, Baymax, drives the action at the heart of this Oscar-nominated film, helped by its creative marrying of Japanese and American culture
big hero 6: disney delivers a visual stunner
A waddling wonder
DISNEY’S latest film, Big Hero 6, is a loud and colourful story that draws very loosely from the pages of one of Marvel’s lesser-known comics. The action unfolds in the vibrant and teeming futuristic city of San Fransokyo – think Blade Runner with a dose of perennially ferocious sunshine – where we first meet the aptly named protagonist, Hiro, a precocious robotics genius who shuns the laid-back lifestyle of his teenage peers in favour of constructing machines to take part in back alley robot battles. It’s a lucrative but illegal pastime, and it is the only thing that poses a smidgen of a challenge for Hiro’s gargantuan grey matter. When his older brother, Tadashi, finally convinces Hiro to apply for a university course, his interest is piqued. University promises a whole new world, full of like-minded geeks working on outlandish projects in high-tech labs. Hiro just needs to develop a project good enough to warrant entry ...
Dave phillips
So far, so straightforward – but there’s enough novelty and flavour in the gorgeous world created on screen to keep kids and adults engaged. Hiro develops a new kind of nano-robot: tiny programmable nodes that can connect together to form any shape or structure, promising a new wave in the field of robotics. But things inevitably don’t go to plan, and Hiro finds himself trying to hunt down whoever has stolen his new technology. Tag-teaming with Hiro is his brothers’ class project (and the real star of the show), Baymax. As a robot designed to diagnose injuries and nurse
humans to health, Baymax is a lumbering, lovable, inflatable giant that might just be the most enigmatic animated character we’ll see on screen all year. Reminiscent of Data from Star Trek: The Next Generation, Baymax’s matter-of-fact logic often clashes with the complexities of human interaction and provides practically all of the comedy throughout this film. We’re not on the same level of The Lego Movie here, but we do have a script that manages to convey a solid story with plenty of laughs. Visually, Big Hero 6 is a huge treat. The colour palette is alive and bombastic – when Hiro decides the only way to go is to “suit up” using r o b o t-
ic enhancements, the already cartoonish cast of characters (below) become revved-up versions of themselves, bedecked in the kind of neon clobber we last saw on the SNES console. It’s stunning to watch, especially when contrasted against the creepy masked villain that the gang end up pursuing. Ultimately a story of loss and revenge, Big Hero 6 manages to lightly touch on some weighty themes, but this is a lowdepth exploration. Big Hero 6 is formulaic, warm-hearted, and eventually forgettable – it plays out like a high-voltage version of a Scooby Doo episode, but manages to avoid mediocrity and feel fresh thanks to a wellcrafted script that will keep the adults in the audience entertained. Go see it, and you’re almost guaranteed to leave the screen a little more hopeful than you entered. Verdict: 7/10
29 January 2015 Gazette 33
HEALTH Systematic kinesiology: balancing the body
A unique, holistic approach to a more healthy you suzanne sheehy
Like most of us, I tend to put up with health problems. This is either because I’m not bad enough to go to the doctor or I’ve looked for help and got no relief. And then I heard of systematic kinesiology. If you’ve tried everything but never heard of this, welcome to the right place! I found kinesiology during a time when I was just feeling “unwell” or “below par”. I train regularly and was learning to accept this fatigue as a fact of my hectic lifestlye. Systematic kinesiology showed me, however, that it need not be this way. So, what is it? Systematic kinesiology is a truly holistic therapy where all elements of the person are assessed and balanced during a treatment. The treatment is unique as it involves the whole person approach. This means engaging the mind and emotions; the body’s physical structure (bones/muscles/ rest/sleep); chemical balance and nutrition including food/drugs /chemicals/pollution/ radiation and, finally, energy, particularly the acupuncture meridians. It works to correct imbalances using techniques such as massage of acupuncture points; nutritional supplements; emotional stress release; food intolerance testing and gentle structural corrections.
If you suffer from headaches or migraine, painful periods, low energy; learning difficulties; back pain/knee/hip problems; anxiety/stress; hamstring problems; neck/shoulder problems; waking up tired; being irritable, moody or sad; have sinus problems or feeling bloated with other digestive problems – then maybe you could do worse than visit a kinesiologist. What follows outlines my treatment sessions with practitioner Deborah Cunningham: I had a few health issues – none serious enough for a trip to the doctor but I took action because I wanted to avoid the drug route further down the line. However, it is important to always consult your doctor if you are concerned about your health. As kinesiology is about finding the cause of health issues often the first session is about investigation and identifying a client’s imbalances. Cunningham’s initial muscle balance test failed to highlight any weaknesses as often happens with a generally healthy person. I was then tested for wheat against my digestive muscle which weakened it. Cunningham said: “It’s helpful to be specific about a food that needs to be avoided. In our experience it may be wheat or dairy are the culprits when health imbalances occur. These foods could have been causing toxicity
within the gut for years.” I was also tested on various acupuncture points on the body. Each one represents the biological systems that naturally occur within our bodies, so we can tell if hormones/neurotransmitters are too high or low causing an imbalance. At this stage Cunningham could advise that I needed magnesium phosphate and B12 (adenosylcobalamin). Throughout my session she had
After three kinesiology sessions and a few supplements (such as B3, B12, iodide, magnesium which are all easily taken with water) I can say my experience of kinesiology has been positive. I have a level of health and well-being that was absent for a long time. I now know I wasn’t living to my full potential. I have noticed a massive increase in my general health plus I have lots more energy and no leg cramps.
a great ability to make things clear in a relaxed environment. “If these deficiencies can be found early enough health problems can be prevented. Due to modern convenience foods and less cooking ‘from scratch’ people have become deficient in nutrients and the absorption of them,” says Cunningham. She told me that her various techniques could correct gut issues and she also detected a mild thyroid imbalance which correlated to my symptoms. This, she added, would be an underlying problem that might not show up in blood tests until the thyroid got much more sluggish.
Omitting wheat from my diet means no more digestive problems. I feel like a new woman and have no hesitation in recommending Deborah Cunningham’s kinesiology treatment, which is genuine, kind and compassionate. Last word? I’m sold on kinesiology and will be attending for regular check ups to ensure I am on track and growing and developing as a whole and happy human being. So my advice is: go on, try it! To book an appointment contact: Deborah Cunningham, Visage Salon, 68b Malahide Road, Marino, Dublin 3 Ph: 01 8332955 Mobile : 086 1774815.
Imbalances are corrected using techniques such as massage of acupuncture points. Inset: The Association of Systematic Kinesiology logo
34 lucan gazette 29 January 2015
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29 January 2015 Gazette 35
sports awards P29
gaelic games P27 P31 asdfsdaf
dublinsport Let the Gazette keep you up to date with all the best local sporting action from around the city as we cover all the stories that matter to you and your community
Gazette
cricket P28
gaelic games: new organisation set to support and represent players in the women’s codes
Players’ power extended through ladies association stephen findlater
sport@gazettegroup.com
DUBLIN stars Noelle Healy and Ali Twomey have warmly welcomed the introduction of the Women’s Gaelic Players Association which was launched in Smock Alley this week. The aim of the WGPA is to “represent, listen to, and support ladies footballers and camogie players who represent their county at the highest level in their sport” with a view to improving the playing, personal and professional lives of their members. At the launch, Cork camogie captain Anna Geary, who is an executive member of the new association, said that establishing minimum standards of player experience was a key aim, adding: “We want an equal playing experience for camogie players and ladies footballers to our
male counterparts.” To this end, St Brigid’s woman Healy – who also lines out for Dublin’s ladies footballers and UCD in college competition – said that there is a huge need for the WGPA when you see their initial findings. “Looking at the results of the survey, some of it was quite shocking,” she told GazetteSport. “Things like players not having access to hot water after training, the distance players were travelling to play, how many times they were training each year. “It was even down to players not having access to food at times. It just shows that player welfare wasn’t in place.” Recent debate has arisen from Joe Brolly’s comments about the joy being taken out of the game for male intercounty stars. And Healy says that many of the issues raised are the same for her
female counterparts. “There’s been a lot of talk about the men being ‘indentured slaves’ but the women train just as many times a week. We put our lives on hold but we don’t have anyone to stand up and make these points for us. I think it is brilliant these players are taking responsibility for this and it can only mean good things. I admire they have the drive to set this up.” For Twomey, she says that the level of commitment has gone up exponentially and so getting representation to make sure it does not go over the top is hugely important. From her own perspective, the Lucan woman plays county, college with DIT and club while also studying and attempting to work part-time. She says the work-play balance is always likely to leave tough decisions to fulfil each commitment.
Indeed, in February the first round of National League matches comes just eight days after the colleges season. “Playing for your county is not like what it used to be, just training and then playing your match at the weekend. It’s full time. It’s all about your diet, your lifestyle, going to bed early, your strength and conditioning when you are not with the team. “It’s nearly an everyday thing. The girls have set up something to support the players and hopefully it will be as recognised as the boys [GPA]. “I find it really hard. At the moment, I train with Dublin while the colleges championship is coming up in February the week before the National league starts. You also don’t want to neglect the club; there’s only seven days in the week and you are trying to fit everything in.”
St Brigid’s Noelle Healy, who was part of the launch of the new GAA season and the continuing sponsorship of Dublin codes by AIG alongside Cian O’Sullivan, Ali Twomey and David O’Callaghan, expressed her support for the new WGPA
c o n ta c t s Sports Editor: Rob Heigh rheigh@dublingazette.com
For more information or to send in news and photos: sport@gazettegroup.com Phone: 01 651 6230
Gazette
36 Gazette 29 January 2015
SPORT
KEN’SDiary
World in motion for O’Brien and Ireland The national cricket side are set for another trip to the top tournament on the calendar, and GazetteSport speaks to team talisman Kevin O’Brien before their Antipodean journey
Learning in the saddle but all for a good cause Olympic silver medallist and Irish boxing legend Ken Egan is to take part in this year’s Laurel’s 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 first report from the road. Having got my first taste of the cycling world last week, I knew what was in store for me this time around and, let me tell you, it wasn’t pretty. We again departed from the usual spot at the Laurels pub in Clondalkin, and from the nine bodies we had for the first cycle, we had a massive increase in numbers - up into the region of 16 diehards taking part. We left Clondalkin and headed for the new road and down towards Ballyfermot. Pushing through Ballyer, we proceeded to head down towards Chapelizod and then out to Phoenix Park. I got into the park and it was wonderful to see many people training and doing various boot camps and fitness programs - it really is a hub of fitness and well-being down there. We pushed on through the park and came out and continued on towards Celbridge, and out as far as Straffan where someone thankfully decided we needed a well-earned tea break. I was speaking to one of the regular cyclists in the coffee shop, and I told him my woes due to not having padded shorts yet, me being the typical rookie... He said he would nearly rather go out on these cycles without a helmet than without padded shorts, and when I got off at the end of the spin, I could see where he was coming from. I pushed on after tea on towards Newcastle and on home to Clondalkin, and although I am in a world of hurt, it is all for Our Lady’s Hospital, a very worthwhile cause. With 65km covered and more time on the saddle in the bank, I am making the right moves... I hope! For more information about the event, log on to www.facebook.com/laurelscharitycrew, and come back next week for the latest instalment of Ken’s cycling diary.
stephen findlater sport@gazettegroup.com
KEVIN O’Brien says that despite the evergrowing spread of cricket tournaments around the world, the 50-over World Cup is still very much “the pinnacle” for Irish cricket. The competition has been the catalyst for a series of golden moments for Ireland in their two previous participations, stunning Pakistan on St Patrick’s Day in 2007 while O’Brien broke the record for the fastest World Cup century in 2011 against England. Ireland fly out on January 30 for their third shot at the competition
which begins on February 16 hopeful they can make some waves once again at the tournament which is being played in Australia and New Zealand. And the Sandymount man is raring to go for the competition: “I’m as excited as I was in 2007; I can’t wait to get on the plane and touch down in Australia and get going.” Ireland are in a seventeam group with the top four sides going through to the quarter-finals. O’Brien’s side are the sixth-ranked side on the world list and so need to cause a couple of surprises if they are to finish in the top four and
advance to the quarterfinals. B u t I r e l a n d h ave defied the odds in the two previous World Cups and O’Brien says his side are confident they can do so once again. “You are looking at three wins minimum to get out of the group so we have identified the games against UAE and Zimbabwe as must-win to stand any chance of qualifying for the knockout stages. From there, we look to beat maybe West Indies or Pakistan and that could be enough. “We start with a massive game against the West Indies. If we can
Ed Joyce, Kevin O’Brien and Craig Young at the announcement of Tourism Ireland’s sponsorship of the Ireland cricket team for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup. Picture: Chris Bellew/Fennell Photography
get a victory there, it sets us up brilliantly for the rest of the campaign. We would be very confident for our second game with the UAE.” There are, however, two heav y hitters in with world number two, India, and three, South Africa, also in the mix.
Since then, media interest has grown markedly in tandem with the financial support – the side announced a sponsorship deal with Irish Tourism this week – and preparation tours stepping up to a higher level. But while those things
--------------------------------------------------------
‘I can’t wait to get on the plane, touch down in Australia and get going’ - Kevin O’Brien
--------------------------------------------------------
The latter feature AB de Villiers who recently smashed the record for the quickest one-day century in a warm-up game against the West Indies. “India and South Africa are great games to play in, two of the best in the world. But we are certainly not going into them to make up the numbers. They are two very difficult games and we have seen South Africa are playing great cricket at the moment. “India are a mixed bag outside the subcontinent so there is no reason we can’t go out and play two very good games and come away with a victory.” When Ireland embarked on their first World Cup journey eight years ago, they were given precious little preparation for the level of attention they would subsequently garner.
have changed, O’Brien says it is an exciting time: “Certainly for the players that have been before, we know what to expect and being dragged from one place to another. But it certainly doesn’t get old! “The pinnacle of our spor t is the 50-over World Cup. The T20 comes around more often – we have played in four of those – and, from a player’s point of view, this is the one you want to play in. “It gives you that 10% or 15% more of an impetus than a regular game; you are playing against the best teams and the best players in the world. It’s a great chance to put your name on the map and show world cricket what you can do. “As a team, we want to play the best cricket we can play. If we do that, we will get at least two or three victories.”
29 January 2015 Gazette 37
Gazette
hockey: battle for top four in leinster rages on
Glenanne and Railway Union push IHL hopes sport@dublingazette.com
A PAIR of 2-1 wins served to bolster Railway Union and Glenanne’s hopes of qualifying for next season’s Irish Hockey League, putting a major dent in YMCA and Corinthian’s chances, respectively, of that same goal. All four are looking to push for a place in the top four of the Leinster league in what is proving a hugely close-run battle. The Glens had to soak up huge amounts of
pressure on home turf against the Y in Tallaght, especially in the second half, before Richie Shaw scored a crucial goal for a second week running. Eddie O’Malley put the Glens in front when he intercepted, exchanged passes with Enda Tucker before O’Malley picked up a rebound for 1-0. They just about held that lead until the break but YM were back on terms when their top scorer Jamie Tobin grabbed his 11th of the season with a
sweetly taken reverse. But Shaw won it when Rowland Rixon-Fuller picked him out and he coolly rolled home for the killer goal. It keeps Glenanne in a share of third place while YM drop back to four points off the automatic IHL places. Railway moved back into fifth place with their 2-1 win over Corinthian with Mark English claiming the winner inside the last five minutes of the tie.
Glenanne’s Stephen Brownlow attempts to tackle YMCA’s Jaco Fourie
FastSport
Ryan and Irvine set to lead big Irish line-up Glenanne celebrate Richie Shaw’s winning goal
The first half was even enough but saw Phil Baron’s goal separate the teams when he slid home from Fergal Keaveney’s through ball while Corinthian hit the post from a neat dink over Simon Thornton. The second half opened up more and Gordon Elliott fired home a backhand shot after capitalising from a defensive error with eight minutes left. Both teams struggled from their corners on the day with plenty going a begging which could have changed things. Railway, though, won it when Donal O’Mearain played in English who shot, despite a very narrow angle, and it went in the far corner with Rob Abbott on hand to make
sure if necessary. At the top it is pretty much as you were. Monkstown cruised to a 6-2 win over UCD, which could have been more but for an excellent performance from Conor Quinn. The sky-blues built a 4-1 lead inside 25 minutes with Gareth Watkins banging a hat trick and Andrew Ward also picked out the top corner. Jeremy Duncan got one back – making a strong impact since his return from six weeks in Australia. Richard Sykes and Davy Carson stretched the lead to 6-1 before Duncan got his second of the day. Monkstown remain four points clear at the top of the division.
GARDA cycling club’s Caroline Ryan and Skerries resident Martyn Irvine will lead Ireland’s eight-strong team for the UCI Track Cycling World Championships, at the Velodrome de Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, Paris, from the February 18 to 22. It is the largest team Ireland has ever sent and comes at the end of a tough track cycling season, which included the European Championships and three World Cups. In order to compete in the World Championships the Irish team had to place in the top rankings across the target disciplines in these events, and in doing so qualified Ireland’s biggest team ever to attend the Track World Championships. Ireland’s newly formed Women’s Team Pursuit has improved consistently throughout the season, finishing in 11th place at the last World Cup in Cali, which ranked them as the eighth European nation ahead of the World Championships in Paris. This is the first time that Ireland has qualified a team pursuit at the World Championships. Ryan and Irvine qualified in the Omnium events, having both had a mixed season of racing so far. Irvine’s qualification is especially sweet considering he broke his shoulder bone in the Omnium at the first World Cup of the season, in Guadalajara, Mexico.
Gazette
38 LUCAN gazette 29 January 2015
SPORT
FastSport
soccer: schools side draw with australia in friendly
Local table tennis prodigy wins provincial U-13 title ART McLaughlin, a fifth class pupil at Griffeen Valley Educate Together School in Lucan, took gold in the Munster Open Under-13 boys’ table tennis event last week. The national event hosted senior and junior players with more than 200 participants drawn to Neptune Stadium in Cork for an actionpacked weekend. McLaughlin was recently awarded Under-11 boys Leinster player of the year for the 2013-14 season and, following on from his recent win in the Under-13 boys Leinster tournament, he went into the event hopeful for success in Munster. After storming through his rounds, he won his place in the final after a thrilling five-setter against the Irish Under-13 number one Thomas Joyce from Connacht. His fellow Club Donic player, Dillon Byrne, made it an all-Leinster final after beating Irish number two David Taylor. McLaughlin took the gold after defeating Dillon 3-1 last Sunday to bring the Under-13 boys trophy back to Leinster. Mia O’Rahilly Egan (Lucan), a fellow club member and currently ranked first in Ireland for Under-13 girls, also brought home the gold trophy in that category. McLaughlin’s school recently started their own table tennis club (GVETNS TTC) which is proving to be a great success.
King’s Hospital into Vinnie Murray final KING’S Hospital set up a Bank of Ireland Leinster Schools Vinnie Murray Cup final date with Castleknock following their 22-14 win over Pres Bray last week in a closely fought battle. Daniel Courtney’s early try and Paul McCullagh’s conversion gave them a 7-0
lead. Pres Bray levelled quickly but KH were back in front 12-7 when prop Calum Petit crossed the whitewash and McCullagh’s penalty put them further ahead. Bray reduced the gap to 15-14 in the second half to set up a dramatic finale but King’s Hos finished strong to close out the result in the 54th minute when hooker Jack Perry drove for the line for McCullagh’s extras to make it 22-14.
Lucan United players Jamie Aherne and Corey Chambers representing Ireland against Australia. Picture: Noel Chambers/Facebook
Local stars shine for Ireland sport@dublingazette.com
COLAISTE Phadraig’s David Markey played his part for the Republic of Ireland schools side in their upcoming action of 2015, which began with a 1-1 draw against Australia’s schools. He was joined by fellow local players Corey Chambers and Jamie Aherne as part of Paddy O’Reilly’s extended panel who are currently preparing for the Centenary Shield, which kicks off on St Patrick’s Day against neighbours Northern Ireland in Ferney Park, home of Ballinamallard United FC.
In the match against Australia at Whitehall, Ireland took the lead in the 23rd minute when the impressive Georgie Poynton ran onto a flick by Conor Ellis and raced through to slot the ball past advancing keeper Sam Brown. Australia equalised on the hour, though, when Matthew Millar got behind the home defence and as he shot he was challenged in the box. The referee awarded a penalty for the challenge and Millar stepped up to stroke home from the penalty spot. Earlier on, Conor Melody had the game’s first
kenny calls on clubs Club Of The Year is open for entries now soccer clubs across Dublin are being urged to enter this year’s Aviva FAI Club of the Year to be in with a chance to win part of the €17,000 prize fund on offer. Launched by former Irish International Kenny Cunningham, the prize was won by Lucan side Esker Celtic in 2013 and St Joseph’s Boys in 2008. Clubs can enter by logging on to www.aviva.ie/ COTY. Picture: Paul Mohan / SPORTSFILE
chance in the seventh minute when he headed over from a Poynton corner and three minutes later a low strike from Jacob Minett tested Irish keeper Lee McCarron who saved well. They were the key chances in a first half that Ireland ended leading 1-0. After a raft of changes at the interval. Australia’s substitute keeper Shaun Catlin showed his quality when he held onto a solid strike from Daire O’Connor just two minutes into the second half. Catlin brilliantly denied O’Connor once more in a one-on-one situation in the 57th minute after an
excellent penetrating pass from Melody sent the Irish midfielder through on goal. From the resulting corner, Ethan Boyle headed back across goal and Paul Murphy was remarkably denied from a matter of inches out by the outstretched arm of Catlin. Australia equalised less than one minute later from Millar from the penalty spot and that was how it remained for the rest of the tie. Mark Buckley was unfortunate not to put Ireland back in front in the 63rd minute when he diverted a low cross from Poynton towards goal
and once again it was the impressive Catlin who saved. Australia, meanwhile, could have snatched the victory in the 75th minute when Steve Whyte produced a powerful strike from outside the box that rattled the inside of an Irish upright and the ball was gathered by the grateful home keeper Corey Chambers. Chambers then made another good save to keep out another decent strike from Whyte less than a minute later. Neither side could produce a winner and the honours were even at the final whistle.
29 January 2015 LUCAN gazette 39
Gazette
Paul on point
All-Star Flynn calls on business for fitness focus
Club Noticeboard lucan sarsfields
fingallians and Dublin star Paul Flynn
recently called on employers and employees across Ireland to line out for Ireland’s first Workplace Wellbeing Day on Friday, March 27. The nationwide campaign aims to help improve employee health through promoting better nutrition and physical activity in workplaces. Full details on how to get involved are available on www. nhfireland.ie/wellbeing.
Membership is now due for 2015 and
The Lucan Sarsfields GAA Club 25
can be renewed online via our web-
card drive continues every Friday in
site.
the clubhouse bar.
Our annual hurling quiz takes place on Friday, January 30 in the clubhouse from 8pm. Our victorious Under-21 hurlers will also be pre-
The club shop is open on Saturdays from 10.30am to 1.30pm.
sented with their county champi-
Lucan District Credit Union GAA
onship medals during the event. All
Academy at Lucan Sarsfields runs
welcome.
from Saturday, January 17, at the
Our adult awards night takes place
hurlers: new boss cunningham working options
Set dancing every Wednesday at 8.30pm. All welcome.
on Saturday, February 7.
new time of 9.30am for camogie and ladies football, 10am for boys foot-
The Cupla Focal club continues on
ball and hurling. The academy is for
Mondays in the clubhouse, from 8
boys and girls born in 2008,2009 and
to 9pm for beginners and 9 to 10pm
2010. The academy runs at 12th Lock,
with Irish Hour for those who wish
Lucan. For more information, con-
to use it.
tact Johnny at 085 129 4102.
round tower, clondalkin Dinner dance 2015 is fast approach-
make your booking by contacting Shay
ing. It will take place Friday, Febru-
Clifford at 086 317 9077.
ary 13 at the Red Cow Moran Hotel.
Congratulations to club president
Tickets are €45 and includes a four-
Tommy Keogh who reached the final of
course meal and live music from
the Local Authority Managers Associ-
Night Shift. Buy online or by calling
ation Awards, having been nominated
into the club this coming Thursday
as Volunteer of the Year by South Dub-
or Friday between 7.30 and 8.30pm.
lin County Council.
Alternatively contact Ed O’Malley: 087
Round Tower lotto: Jackpot €10,000
8073391; Phil O’Connor: 087 2323521;
and numbers drawn 11, 17, 19 and 25;
Jessica O’Malley: 087 2806273; Cathal
bonus ball 7. There was no overall win-
New Dublin hurling manager Ger Cunningham says he is happy with the performance of his charges
O’Donoghue: 087 2834150 (from Frames
ner and no bonus ball winner. Three
Local stars line out for new-look hurlers
Etc, Convent Road); Annette Har-
€100 winners were Paul Tansey, Liam
rington: 087 2827631; Michael McGlynn:
McLaughlin and Derek Keating. The
087 9082970.
club lotto is crucial fundraiser and it’s
sport@dublingazette.com
LUCAN Sarsfields’ Peter Kelly and St Pat’s Palmerstown’s Shane Stapleton both started for Dublin’s senior hurlers in last Sunday’s 0-28 to 0-12 win over Antrim to reach the semi-finals of the Bord na Mona Walsh Cup. Both are looking to stake their claim for an ongoing place in Ger Cunningham’s plans for the new season since taking on the reins as the new manager and he says he is working out his options at the moment. “We have no captain at the moment, we’re rotating it,” said Cunningham of the selection that lined out last Sunday. “We’re
going to look at different people and we’ll decide in a few weeks’ time.” His side will go on to face Laois, 4-18 to 1-19 victors over Wexford, in their semi-final away next Sunday at 2pm in Portlaoise. David Treacy was the Dubs top-scorer with 0-11 (0-7 frees) as Antrim finished the game with 13 men following Eoghan Campbell’s straight red card in the 42nd minute and Neil McManus being dismissed in injury-time after picking up his second yellow. The Dubs led by 0-16 to 1-5 at the break, with Antrim’s goal coming late in the first half from Eddie McCloskey.
Dublin started with intent with points from Treacy, (two, one free) and three from Danny Sutcliffe seeing them into a 0-5 to 0-0 lead inside the opening eight minutes. Sutcliffe and Mark Schutte impressed in the Dublin attack with both hitting 0-5 from play over the course of the 70-plus minutes. With 20 minutes left to play, Antrim raised their hopes of an unlikely victory when a quickfire 1-1 from sub Ciaran Clarke cut the deficit to four points. However, Dublin then raised their game again with Schutte and Treacy again to the fore in the scoring stakes to run out
10-point winners. Speaking about the success, Cunningham said it was a good run-out. “Any time Antrim come down it’s going to be tough. Their style of play is a bit different, they work the ball quite a lot so it requires a lot of work rate and your attitude has to be right. “If you’re not focused against them they could punish you. But we were definitely the better side today. “Twenty eight points proves it, I think. That’s good scoring. If we’d got a goal or two earlier, I think we could have wrapped it up easier but, you know, we’re happy with the result.”
On the playing pitch, the U-21 footballers were defeated in championship quarter-final against Naomh
very easy to support it. Play online at www.roundtower.ie. Newcomers are welcome to the club nursery that continues to take place
Mearnog. Membership is now due for renewal
every Saturday morning at Collins-
and new members are welcome for
town College at present from 10 to
year 2015. Visit www.roundtower.ie or
11.30am. Four to seven year olds who
membership forms are available from
want to learn the skills of GAA in a fun
the clubhouse.
environment should come along.
Juvenile registration continues in
Our U-8 and U-9 ladies football-
the club on Friday, January 30 from 7
ers are on the lookout for new tal-
to 9pm and Saturday, January 31 from
ent! Training takes place Thursday at
2 to 4pm. First child €30; second €25;
Monastery Road from 5.45pm. Con-
third and subsequent €20 each.
tact Alice Dodrill 087 099 6636 (U-8s),
Club members are advised you must
or Ken Byrneat on 087 998 3484 (U-9s).
ensure a slot for your respective
Our new U-8, U-10 and U-12 camogie
training session has been allocated by
teams train Wednesday at 4:30pm
the adult games committee. This is to
in Monastery Road. New players are
prevent duplication. You are asked to
very welcome.
Got a story? we want to know!
Call our sport team on 60 10 240 and SELECT OPTION 3
or email sport@dublingazette.com
GazetteSPORT all of your lucan sports coverage from page 35-39
new breed: Local stars shine for Republic Of Ireland schools side as they take on Australia P38
jan 29 - feb 4, 2015
no boundaries: O’Brien and Ireland set for World Cup down under P36
Na Gaeil Oga get boost from O’Neill rob heigh
sport@dublingazette.com
Irish language GAA club Na Gaeil Oga received a considerable boost in their development last week when GAA President Liam O’Neill endorsed their growing membership and recently established juvenile section. The visit of the GAA’s most senior figure to their Saturday morning academy training is another fillip for the club and their plans to increase their membership across all codes and levels. Speaking to GazetteSport after the visit, PRO Colman Hanley said it was a considerable boost to have the pres-
ident visit the burgeoning club. “We invited Liam to come down to the club only last week and he immediately accepted, which was tremendous at such short notice. “Liam is a primary school teacher by profession, and the training for the youth section takes place at Gaelscoil Naomh Phadraig in Lucan. He met our members and coaches, and young academy members and parents. “From a club point of view, it is great to have that kind of recognition and appreciation from the highest level in the association.” The club, founded in 2010, has flourished while other Irish language clubs in the city have fallen by the wayside. At present, they have a senior
hurling and two senior football teams, a ladies football team, and are set to launch a camogie team next week. With an eye to the future, the youth development is hoped to build a base of players for the future. “We want to be able to compete at all age levels in the GAA, and the aim of Saturday mornings at Naomh Phadraig is to establish our underage structures,” said Hanley. Speaking at the event, O’Neill was effusive in his praise of Na Gaeil Oga: “I had to come here today as I had heard so much about the development and growth of Na Gaeil Oga recently. “I didn’t realise so many children were involved with the club at such
GAA President Liam O’Neill meets future stars of Na Gaeil Oga
an early age. I think it’s a great idea to see our national language and our national games linked together like this, and as a supporter of the Irish language, I’d support the work going on here.”
Academy training for children from five years olds upwards takes place on Saturday mornings from 10.30am in the grounds of Gaelscoil Naomh Padraig in Lucan. For more information, log on to www.nagaeiloga.ie.