Donabate Local V7I3-APR 2023

Designated

Spring is officially here and brighter days are ahead

Spring this year officially came into existence on March 20th and as ever it brought all sorts of good things. Yes, his month we will celebrate Easter with its Christian connotations for many here and lots of chocolate eggs for the kids and adults alike. However Spring also brings forth rebirth in all things. Lambs in the fields, other animals giving birth to their young and the flowers blossoming, It is a wonderful and wondrous time for farmers and gardeners alike. So too, it is a time to shed the gloom of winter as house wives and house husbands begin the spring clean and thoughts roam to spring breaks and planning the summer holidays. Retailers and wholesalers alike are bringing forth new and exciting products for us to buy at keenest rates. For the community/voluntary/sporting and charitable sector it means AGM’s, and pre planning for events and competitions. So you see its not only about rebirth in the sense of actual birth, it is about rejuvenation, rebuilding and reinvigorating ourselves and all of those groups and organisations in whatever sector they are. The old saying ‘Fail to plan and you plan to fail’ is I am sure particularly prevalent in the thoughts of many committees at this time. So you see Springtime gives us the opportunity to improve things both as individuals, families or as groups or organisations. It is a time to review and reshape our lives and those of our groups for the better. A time to put the past behind us and realise that change can be exciting, necessary and create better days for both the individual and the group whether that is in your home life or in the voluntary sector. At this time let us all note the mistakes of the past but plan for better things to come and look forward to the warm sun on our backs and brighter days ahead, In the meantime remember to shop local for those Easter eggs, cakes, and other items for your Easter celebrations. Happy Springtime and Easter to you all!.

The Locals Team.

Do you know an unsung hero in your area?

Why not nominate them as a Community Champion in the 2023

STRICT

An bhfuil aithne agat ar laoch neamhaitheanta i do cheantar?

Mayor’s Awards

Mayor’s Awards

We want to recognise, celebrate and honour the efforts of people across Fingal who are making a real difference for others.

Scan our QR code to access the nomination form

Cad faoi iad a ainmniú mar Laoch an Phobail i nGradaim an Mhéara

nGradaim an Mhéara

www.fingal.ie/mayors-awards-2023

*Deadline for nominations: 5pm 20 April 2023

Is mian linn iarrachtaí na ndaoine ar fud Fhine Gall atá ag déanamh fíordhifríochta do dhaoine eile a aithint, a cheiliúradh agus onóir a bhronnadh orthu.

Scanáil ár gcód QR chun teacht ar an bhfoirm ainmniúcháin

www.fingal.ie/ga/gradaim-mheara-2023

*An dáta deiridh a nglacfar le hainmniúcháin ná 5pm 20 Aibreán 2023

Johnston welcomes upgrade works on access to The Brook Beach

Corina Johnston, Area Representative has welcomed the commencement of the upgrade works on the access to The Brook Beach, Portrane. Johnston said;”I am very pleased that our ongoing campaign for a safe and accessible access for everyone to our beach at the Brook, Portrane has been successful as it was the worst entrance to any beach in Fingal. Following an on-site meeting last July, with officials from Fingal County Council, arranged by Duncan Smith TD, We received a commitment from the Council that the funding for a scheme at the Brook would be included in this year’s programme of works. This came in the form of direct communication with Duncan Smith TD and to the council meeting dated 8th September last. Prior to this we were in contact with the National Parks and Wildlife Services who had no difficulties with our proposals. “ Johnston continued;” my colleague Seana O’Rodaigh submitted the following question to September’s Council meeting on my behalf: “To ask the Chief Executive if consideration could be given, in respect of the entrance to the Beach at the Brook Portrane, to design and install a much-needed improvement scheme

which could include a tarmacadam surface, kerbing, fencing and to note that such a scheme would both enhance access for people with disabilities, parents with buggies and the physical appearance of the sole access within the village?” In their reply the Council said: The following works at the entrance to the beach at the Brook, Portrane will be included in the 2023 works programme:• The path will be tarmacked, and drainage works will be carried out at the entrance. • The existing fence will be removed, and a solid bar railing will be installed. • The area to the right will be landscaped which will include the installation of a kerb and planting. Johnston concluded; “ We are very pleased that this work is nearing completion which would not have been possible this year without our ongoing campaign and the persistence of Duncan and I. This will enhance access and will improve the appearance within the village. We wish to thank Fingal County Council for taking on board our proposals which will enhance the great work by the Portrane Village Renewal group.”

Spring is here for the Balbriggan/North County Dublin Branch of Guide Dogs

Spring has finally sprung and that means longer brighter days are just around the corner. It also means Guide Dog Day is approaching, on Friday May 26th ,to be exact, make sure to mark your calendar and updates will follow on all the ways you can support us and our branch for this years Guide Dog day. With summer ever approaching, it also means we have the return of the wonderful Balbriggan Summerfest, which will be running from the 28th May to the 4th June. Once again we at Balbriggan/ North County Dublin Branch of Guide Dogs will be attending and we will confirm the date as soon as it is known. We hope to see you there and hopefully the sun will be shining. We are delighted to say the February Féile Baile Brigín which took place on the 10 th and 11th February, with all proceeds in aid of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind was a great success. We would also like to say a really massive thank you to both Damien

O’Shaughnessy and of course to Ann McFadden O’Shaughnessy for organising the event and for their continued support. A fantastic €2,500 was raised and a great day was had by all. We are happy to provide an update on puppy in training Cosmo, who is being puppy raised by branch volunteer, Anne Mulligan. Cosmo is 7 months old now and she continues to do very well with her training. In fact, just recently, she took some time out with her family to visit Assistance Dog ‘Yarrow’, who Anne puppy raised between 2020 and 2021 and is now assisting a little boy in Cork. We will continue to update you on Cosmo’s training. If you are interested in volunteering with us please feel free to contact us by any of these: Balbriggan/ North County Dublin Branch of Irish Guide Dogs by phone/text 085 7663107, email us at GuideDogsBalbriggan@gmail.com or find us on Facebook at Balbriggan Branch of Guide Dogs.

Ann McFadden O’Shaughnessy, Anne Mulligan with puppy in training ‘Cosmo’, Tom O’Neill and Guide Dog Qeb and Breda Gibbons enjoying the Feis in the Naul.

Why Your Application Could Be Declined

By Dave Kavanagh

When applying for mortgage approval, there are several factors that the lenders take into account when considering your application. The three main ones are, Multiples of Salary, Net Disposable Income and Proven Ability to Repay. Until recently, the standard guideline for the maximum borrowing permitted, was 3.5 x gross annual income. Since the start of this year, this was increased to 4 x income for first time buyers. However, with interest rates on the increase, at least one lender has already adjusted other criteria for applicants seeking to apply for the increased multiple. One of the factors adjusted, is the second one, Net Disposable Income. This refers to how much applicants will have left over after paying their mortgage each month, to cover all of the other essentials. This differs from lender to lender, but also depends on the family dynamic. For example, a couple or individual with no children will not be expected to need as much as those with perhaps, 3 children, due to the increased cost of living for those children. The last of the main criteria examined is Proven Ability to Repay. For example, if the proposed mortgage repayment is €1,500 per month, the lender will usually “stress test” this repayment by calculating what the figure would be if rates increased by 2% (often not done if people opt for

a fixed rate). So they may be looking for evidence that a figure of €1750 is affordable. This could be illustrated by regular savings, rent, or loan repayments on a loan about to be cleared, or a combination of all. Advance planning can give you a much higher probability of getting approval by considering these factors. Obviously, there are many other factors to consider, such as how you conduct your current accounts and how much you have saved. For first time buyers, at least 10% of the purchase price is required, while for non first time buyers, at least 20% deposit is required. One often overlooked consideration, is to make sure that you qualify for mortgage protection, so this is something to look at in the early stage to make sure it would not be an obstacle to finalising an application.

Dave Kavanagh QFA has been advising people financially for over 25 years. For quotes or for information (with no cost or obligation) he can be contacted by emailing Dave directly on info@financialcompanion.ie or you can use the contact form on www.financialcompanion.ie or @Davekav_advice on Twitter and Instagram. Combined with his previous role of gym/ nutrition adviser, he regularly gives talks and workshops at seminars and events for groups, companies and government departments on financial wellbeing, positivity and motivation. As heard on RTE 2FM , LMFM and TV3

Wide Range of Activities at Donabate Portrane Men’s Shed

Donabate Portrane Men’s Shed continues to expand its range of activities. Over the past two months, a group of members partook in a HSEsponsored Heathy Eating programme, an enjoyable and information handson cooking course focusing on producing nutritious meals. We also started a weekly music jam session. All of this is in addition to our regular tea-andchat get-togethers, our croquet and boules sessions at Newbridge House, our exercise classes and our occasional outings to places of interest.So, if you are interested in joining us for any or all of these activities, feel free to call or text our PRO, Jim, on 086-3694316 or just turn up to our weekly Thursday morning get-togethers in Donabate Sea Scouts’ den on the Portrane Road. Either way, you’ll be warmly welcomed.

Tributes paid following death of former Mayor of Fingal, Gerry McGuire

The death has occurred recently of the former Mayor of Fingal, Gerry McGuire. He served as Mayor of Fingal in 2011-12. He was co-opted onto Fingal County Council in July 2003 to replace long-serving Labour Party Councillor and TD Seán Ryan, who was obliged to stand down following the abolition of the dual mandate which allowed members of the Oireachtas to also serve as councillors. Mr McGuire was subsequently elected to the Council in 2004 as a councillor for the Swords Local Electoral Area which, at that time, included his Donabate base. He served as the Chairperson of the Housing Strategic Policy Committee from 2004 to 2009. He was re-elected as a Councillor in 2009 but lost his seat in the 2014 local elections. He served on the Eastern Regional Authority and the Northern Area Health Board and was also a member of the Donabate and District Sports Association and the Donabate Housing CoOperative. Originally from Tullamore, Co Offaly, where his father also served as a Labour Party Councillor, he moved to Donabate in the 1960s and worked in St Ita’s Hospital where he was

a founder member of the Psychiatric Nurses Association. The Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Howard Mahony, said: “It is with deep sadness that I learned of the death of former Mayor, Gerry McGuire, who served as a Councillor on Fingal County Council for 11 years and was a dedicated representative for the people of Donabate. On behalf of all my fellow councillors, past and present, I would like to extend our sympathies to wife Mary, sons Brendan and Alan, and daughters Ciara and Darina.” The Chief Executive of Fingal County Council. AnnMarie Farrelly, said: “Gerry McGuire was a dedicated community activist who worked very hard over the years for the people of Donabate, and also represented the people of Fingal for one year when he was elected as Mayor. I would like to extend the sympathies of everybody at Fingal County Council to his family and friends.” His funeral mass took place on Wednesday 15th March at 11am in St Patrick’s Church, Donabate. A minute’s silence, in memory of the former Mayor, was held at the March monthly meeting of Fingal County Council.

The late Gerry McGuire who was Mayor of Fingal in 2011-12.

Donabate/Portrane AAfA Community News This April

Active Age for All will take a two week break from classes over Easter,starting the 3rd of April. We hope that the weather will be fine and we can have an opportunity for some gardening and some nice long walks with the walking group. We will be hosting an event on the 5th of April at 10.30 a.m. in Donabate Portrane Community Centre with Danielle Monahan from Fingal Age Friendly Healthy Homes. She will give a more in depth presentation, as to what grants and help is available to make your home more age friendly and healthy. All with the idea of keeping people in their own homes for as long as possible. Danielle will be available to answer individual queries privately

after the presentation. If you want to book a slot Text only 086 880 6808.We are excited to be involved in planning an event on the 9th of May for the Bealtaine Festival to celebrate creativity in the older person. We are hoping to involve our singing group Caintóirí, the writing group and some of our Ukulele players, so it should be a very enjoyable morning. so please ‘watch this space!’

To finish I would just like to wish our members A very Happy Easter! If you need information about our classes or our organisation please go to our website www. activeageforall.com. or why not email activeageforall@gmail.com. Or TEXT only 086 880 6808

The Yoga arms wide stance

Sit & Get Fit -Hands Up!

Leg Stretching during Yoga

Sit & Get Fit arms to the side

Peninsula Pacers -Trek on the Tramline

The old Howth Tramline was our walk in February, led by Audrey Sherlock one of our leaders. It has great variety weaving up the hill from the Train Station on the Tramline one arrives to The Summit, where you can then take part of the Cliff Walk to descend back down to the village of Howth. The day ended with a lovely meal in the Abbey Tavern. We try as much as possible to use public transport. With good timing one can go from Donabate to Howth by train in less than an hour ! Our walk in March was planned for Rush to Loughshinny (and return) by beach and cliff. It has fantastic

views in/out but is dependent on the tides so one must take care. Our April walk on Saturday 22nd is by train Southside and then walk to the Pidgeon House & Lighthouse and return for food to Sandymount Village.These long walks 10/12km approx can vary in difficulty and require good health and a fairly good fitness level. Also, one must be attired properly with walking shoes with vibram soles (not runners) and layered up for all weathers with rain coat and rucksack a must! Please contact Carolyn Smith on 087 9284307 or Des Carthy on 087 7846813

Parish Hall Picture House

Under the umbrella of the Parish Hall Committee, a very special event was held in Donabate Parish Hall in late February 2023. The Parish Hall became an old style Picture House for the screening of Angel (1982) featuring Stephen Rea in his very first film and starring in the lead acting role. Part of it was shot in The Burrow on the Portrane Beach, which made the occasion extra special and nostalgic for all present. Stephen, as our special guest, came on the night to watch the film and did a very enlightening and entertaining Q&A session afterwards with

the well versed and prepared Leticia Agudo, who is film director herself and also tutors on the Film & Production Degree Course in Coláiste Dhúlaigh College of Further Education. It was a community event, all the main Cultural and Creative groups were invited first; then some tickets were extended to other Community groups - people who do or have enriched our Parish. On the night, a huge thanks was extended to FCC for their part in refurbishing our Parish Hall, especially the acoustic panels which make it an ideal venue for cultural and creative activities

eg Drama, Film, Music, Dance, Craft. There was no Eventbrite, no Facebook, no Instagram, no Posters, no Advertising and we still were sold out of tickets for the night and there was a full house. On the night, we went down Memory Lane for a few minutes about places that use to show films in the parish. Do you remember John’s Club (now gone) or Dockery’s (upstairs in what’s now Grogan’s Shop) in The Burrow? Both places showed films once a week or month in the 1950’s and 1960, fond memories for many people present.

Now we have a great new film club in the Parish. Recently, Larry Carolan and Breda Maguire set up The Lambay Cinema Club and they and their team show a great selection of films once a month on a Thursday in the Church of Ireland at The Square, Donabate. Without Larry’s enthusiasm, expertise and experience in the screening of Angel (1982) in the Parish Hall, nothing could have taken place on the night; the film and the equipment were borrowed from the Bleeding Pig and Larry did the set up and showing. A huge thanks also to Country Crest Farm Shop who sponsored some of the refreshments for all of the people on the night. Also, a big thanks to Stephen from Keelings Pub who sponsored delicious sandwiches for all the volunteers who were working hard on the night and well before the night The Parish Hall Programme tries to co-ordinate and cater for, in a workable way, as many needs as possible, daily/weekly eg Senior Citizens, Cards, Irish Dance,

Youth Wellbeing etc and blocks of cultural and creative activities eg Drama, Camps, Exhibitions etc. To that end the Dramatic Society are back again with one of their twice yearly fantastic productions at the end of April, beginning of May. Also coming up is an inclusion of some camps to cater for the children of the Parish. Lastly, a special thanks to the Parish Hall Committee and a massive thanks to all of the volunteers who helped to make it such a memorable evening, caretakers, cleaners, film showers, ticket takers, ushers, reception team, parking attendants, gift maker, photographers, video maker, setter uppers & washer uppers! for, without them all, it would not have happened. A very very special thanks to Stephen Rea; we are sincerely honoured that not alone did you come to our community event as our special guest but took such a big part in it. We hope it can be repeated again in the future!

Fingal wants to hear about the unsung heroes making a difference

Be it washing a neighbour’s windows, mowing someone’s grass, picking up medicines each week or caring for the environment, Fingal County Council wants to hear about what extraordinary lengths people have gone to in their local area as they look to help others.

We know there is a remarkable amount of thoughtful consideration going on, and now we want to recognise those individuals with a heart of gold as part of our Mayor’s Community Champions Awards 2023. That is why we are calling on everyone to share with us the stories of what is being done and for nominations to be put forward for consideration by an independent panel of experts.

Announcing the focus of this year’s awards, Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Howard Mahony said: “I am constantly amazed by the incredible amount

of volunteer work undertaken by so many people across Fingal. From cleaning a neighbour’s house, to looking after someone’s garden, running errands or planting trees, the County is exceptionally fortunate to have people going to such extraordinary lengths to truly make a difference to the lives of others.

“Now, we want to find, acknowledge and honour the achievements of these unsung heroes who work so selflessly by asking the people of Fingal to join us as we say Hands Up for Community Champions.”

This year we are keen to recognise those working tirelessly in so many locations and in varied roles. These are people making a positive contribution to their local community and are inspiring others to do the same. They could be an older person proving that age is not a barrier

to giving back to others, somebody who is helping make a positive impact on sports or the environment in their local area, or someone whose dedication to Irish is raising the profile of the language throughout Fingal.

Whatever it is, these inspirational individuals are enhancing the lives of others across the County and we want to hear their story. Nominations are now open and can be made at any time up until 5pm on Thursday 20th April. Details on the Mayor’s Awards and how to nominate someone can be found via the Council’s website: https://www.fingal.ie/mayorsawards-2023. Community Champions will be announced at a special gala dinner on 1 June. Learn more about the Mayor’s Awards here: https://youtu.be/LkrL8sPCGjE

CommunityLocals.ie

The time is coming for Easter then Communion and Confirmation

By Siobhan O’Neill White

Early April can be cold so we’re planning an indoor Easter egg hunt! Here are some ideas for places to hides eggs for your little ones. Are you ready, get set, so lets go....1. When you sit there its comfy but with an egg behind, its bumpy! (Cushions on sofa) 2. Close them to keep out the light….peek behind for chocolate delight (behind curtains) 3. Look in-between the books….for treats in crannies & nooks (bookshelf) 4. Use these to dry dishes… inside are chocolate wishes (tea towel drawer) 5. What we use to cook a stew….look inside for chocolate too (pot for cooking stew) 6. This box is usually full of fun….but today inside, things are yum (toy box) 7. Under your pillow where you sleep….. look for an extra special treat! (bed) 8. Flowers are colourful, pretty, and sweet - inside the vase is something to eat (in dry flower arrangement). I hope this helps make your egg hunts super-

fun. ALDI and LIDL have reasonably priced egg-hunt kits, so Easter doesn’t have to cost a fortune! With Communion season upon us, here are some ideas to make your child’s day special, without spending a fortune. Dunnes Stores, Ilac Centre has a fabulous range of Communion dresses and accessories for girls and smart suits and clothing for boys. For Confirmation girls, Quiz have gorgeous clothing, starting at UK size 4; so ideal for tweens and teens. Another great store for tweens/teens is Catch and they have lovely clothing for younger siblings too. For Mammies, Quiz has beautiful dresses. For curvy ladies, Yours Clothing is wonderful. We love to support local, Irish companies. For the guys, Bestwear Shop St. Drogheda has matching suits for Dads & Sons. Give them promo code Mams. ieBest23 to get 10% off! Suits. For Communion and Confirmation girls, Azure jewellery has delicate pieces in pearl and silver. For the Mammies, Belleek has a beautiful range of

colourful handbags, perfect to accessorise outfits. A personalised Pinata from Pinatas Pinatas is a nice addition for Communions and the kids love bashing it to get the sweets out. Worried about the cost? We have a family tradition where Grannies and Aunties each buy an item for the Communion/Confirmation child. It’s extra special for the child and, takes pressure off the parents to buy everything. Check out mame.ie for more of our wonderful exciting Communion and Confirmation recommendations and competitions. So why not contact us soon in any of these ways : email:siobhan@mumstown. ie ,web:www.mams.ie - Shortlisted for Golden Spider Award & Infant & Maternity Award

As seen on RTE and Virgin Media Ireland & Weekend AM As heard on Today FM’s Ian Dempsey & Dermot & Dave; RTE’s Ray D’Arcy Show, 98FM, LMFM Late Lunch, WLRFM & Shannonside FM

Home Cook Recipes Healthy

Niamh’s Nutty Caramel and Chocolate Crunch Cake

Going completely indulgent for this one but enjoying food is one of the many great pleasures in life and one of the few things we still have to enjoy during the current pandemic lockdown.Also this might be a scrumptious recipe to try over the Easter and especially f there is lots of chocolate around!! No baking required and although there may seem like quite a few steps, it’s just because there are a few different layers. This means all the more mixing bowls and spoons to lick clean after!!! Have fun, happy making and sharing!! Beannachtaí na Cásca oraibh.

Please follow ‘Biabites’ on Facebook for other food ideas especially in the ‘Fun food’ and ‘Recipes’ albums.Please follow @BiaBites on twitter. For nutrition talks/workshops at events or in schools/workplaces/community groups= please email:niamh@biabites.netNiamh Arthurs BSc, Msc Registered Dietitian and Researcher.

Ingredients:

• 600g dark chocolate digestive biscuits

• 300g butter

• 75g peanuts

• 100g dark chocolate

For the caramel:

• 75g caster sugar

• 120g butter

• 400g (approx-397g is fine!!) tin sweetened condensed milk

• 1 tablespoon golden syrup

{Alternatively for convenience, use a 400g tin (OR 397g as available in shops) of caramel.}

Method:

Grease or pre-line a non-stick springform based tin.To make the biscuit base: place the biscuits in a strong bag that can be tied and can withstand the force of a rolling pin!

(I use an empty breakfast cereal bag). Bash the biscuits using a rolling pin or other utensils until they form fine crumbs.Alternatively you could blitz the biscuits in a food processor/ blender.Melt the butter in a saucepan. Take off the heat and stir in the biscuit crumbs until well mixed.Tip the biscuit mixture into the tin and press down firmly with the back of a spoon to make a smooth and even surface.Place in the fridge to chill while making the caramel. To make the caramel: gently melt the sugar, butter, condensed milk and golden syrup in a

saucepan.Then increase the heat until just below the boil and stir vigorously using a whisk for approximately15 minutes as the sauce changes colour from a lighter to a darker brown and thickens. If clumping starts to occur, remove from the heat and whisk vigorously to combine again. Allow the caramel to cool slightly as it will thicken further as it cools. Then pour the caramel over the biscuit base. Place in the refrigerator to cool fully.(If using a tin of caramel instead, then skip step 5 and 6 and just pour the already made caramel over the biscuit base and place in the refrigerator to harden. Finely chop the peanuts. Sprinkle on top of the caramel. Melt the chocolate and pour on top of the peanuts (ensure the caramell has cooled fully), making a creative design! I did a zig-zag drizzle as in the image! White chocolate could also be melted and used to decorate it! Store in an airtight container.

Please follow ‘Biabites’ on Facebook for other food ideas especially in the ‘Fun food’ and ‘Recipes’ albums. Please follow @BiaBites on twitter. For nutrition talks/workshops at events or in schools/workplaces/community groups= please email: niamh@biabites.net Niamh

Arthurs BSc, Msc Registered Dietitian and Researcher.

Progressive Credit Union - St. Ita’s AFC Welfare Sponsor for 2023

St. Ita’s AFC soccer club are delighted to announce that Progressive Credit Union will again sponsor the club, and be the official Welfare Sponsor for 2023. The sponsorship will allow the club to invest in a range of equipment and training to ensure that the standard of welfare of all our members is exceptional. According to St. Ita’s AFC Chairman Conor Tonra, the support of PCU as the Welfare Sponsor has proved critical for the club: “The support of PCU in 2022 allowed for an upgrading of key safety equipment such as First Aid kits and an upgrade in AED equipment, and for us to roll out a programme of health and safety training including AED training for coaches. This new commitment by PCU for 2023 will allow us to build on these strong foundations.” Progressive Credit Union were the club’s inaugural Welfare Sponsor in 2022, and this extends the sponsorship for the new season. The investment will benefit all of the club’s youth and senior 700 players and coaches. Donabate and Portrane is an important part of the common bond of the Progressive Credit Union, which was formed in 2013 and has grown strongly since. According to Sean Staunton, CEO of Progressive Credit Union: “Progressive Credit Union are delighted to once again support

St. Itas AFC, and continue our long-term commitment to Donabate and Portrane. We have a large membership based in Donabate and Portrane, including among members of St. Itas, and we are very proud to support a club which has played such a central role in the community of the peninsula for almost 100 years. The club is based in Donabate-Portrane, fielding teams of male and female members, from age 4 upwards.

St Ita’s AFC has approximately 700 registered

playing members, including nearly 90 coaches, and are fielding 37 teams in league football, and have recently expanded the senior section to include a senior women’s team and an over 35’s men’s team. St Ita’s also works closely with other organisations in the local community, and has license agreements with two local schools (DPETNS and Donabate Community College), as well as the Donabate Special Olympics Club to use the club’s facilities.

your answer by email, with your name, address and telephone number to communitylocals@ gmail.com before 5pm on the 16th of this mnoth. The first correct entry to be drawnwill win

Across

1. Alter equipment for accuracy and effectiveness. (6)

5. Leather bands for binding things together. (6)

10. Small villages straight out of Shakespeare. (7)

11. Of no help whatsoever. (7)

12. Military alliance of some European states. (4)

13. It’s a black and white animal. (5)

15. Alcoholic beverage. (4)

17. Perceive the bishop’s seat. (3)

19. Drapes hide a sandwich filler. (6)

21. Very small creature. (6)

22. Getting involved with the music. (7)

23. Put your material on the Internet. (6)

25. Someone in charge of a building, grounds or animals. (6)

28. Provided food. (3)

30. Primary compass direction. (4)

31. Gets annoyed like Tim Finnegan. (5)

32. Popular subject at UCD. (4)

35. There’s no use crying over this milk. (7)

36. Puts into service. (7)

37. Refuse to notice. (6)

38. Make a house larger or longer. (6)

Down

2. The metered Greek goddess of fertility. (7)

3. A person known for taking advantage of others. (4)

4. Takes samples of several dishes. (6)

5. Rectangle with four equal sides. (6)

6. Smell like Magillicuddy.. (4)

7. Sharply exact and accurate. (7)

8. An acknowledgement of appreciation. (6)

9. The upward route on a mountain. (6)

14. Seaside places. (7)

16. Device for finding aircraft. (5)

18. One of God’s attendants. (5)

20. Skedaddle hides a parent! (3)

21. Essential for writing. (3)

23. Not feeling secure, anxious. (6)

24. Leaning like a damaged ship. (7)

26. Part of a cake. (7)

27. Stand up against someone or something. (6)

28. A down-market violin. (6)

29. A period of ten years. (6)

33. The lowest female singing voice. (4)

34. A mark made by dirt. (4)

This is easy… we are offering you the chance to win €50. All you have to do is correctly fill in the crossword and discover the name of an area in Fingal spelt out in the coloured squares. Then send the completed crossword and

€50..Good luck