Swords Local V9I4-JUN 2024

Your Community News

SWORDS LOCAL

WORKING FOR YOU

times with challenges in a lot of areas. There has been a continued fall in living standards for households, figures released by the CSO at the end of 2022 showed an increased decline reflecting a continued fall in Irish living standards

• Bankruptcies • Probate and Wills • Personal Injuries

• Employment Law

• Family Law • Litigation

families were facing high costs long

There are many families in Fingal who have grown up kids who cannot move out and cannot move on with their lives and they are the generation who have been locked out. We need to build communities that have the necessary infrastructures in place and homes for residents that are affordable to rent or buy. People should decide what type of housing suits their needs, public, private or owner occupied but it needs to be affordable. We’ve seen too many government housing policies that aren’t delivering homes for our resi-

average and in the bottom half of the EU. This is a reflection of successive bad governments who have failed in improving prospects for Irish households – the current government has failed in areas like housing and healthcare, costs have risen and services are more difficult to access.

Working in the Community

Please note we have moved OUR NEW ADDRESS is:

Top Floor, Town Centre, Lusk, County Dublin, K45 DC85

Housing

Sinn Féin is committed to ensuring that we deliver affordable homes to rent or buy for people on ordinary incomes.

Tel. No.: 01 8438138, Fax. No.: 01 8071957, Web.: www.localsolicitor.ie, Email.: liam@localsolicitor.ie

Myself and Deputy Louise O’Reilly TD work closely together and with resident’s groups and individuals in our community to deal with local and personal issues. We listen to people’s concerns and do everything in our power to ensure that their interests are met, locally through Fingal County Council and through the Dáil, and through our constituency offices in Swords and Balbriggan.

I also work closely with Dessie Ellis TD on issues affecting the Santry area that falls within the Swords boundary and with community groups and indi-

viduals in this area. We support our communities on many campaigns and issues that affect their daily lives.

Sustainable Transport

With delays to Metro North I have called for and had a motion passed which calls for a Town Bus for Swords to facilitate those areas that have no direct access. Sinn Féin has supported residents who will be affected by the works in relation to the Metro.

Dublin Airport – Noise

The current situation with Dublin Airport ignoring noise regulations and agreed flight paths is a significant concern. Sinn Féin have met with groups campaigning against these breaches and I was happy to stand with residents in a recent protest. I’ve raised the matter with FCC and continue to do so. Along with Deputy O’Reilly we have met with the DAA and the IAA, and continue to meet with residents groups in affected aeas. The DAA ignoring noise regulations and agreed flight paths is unacceptable we will continue to raise this with FCC, ANCA (noise regulator) and in the Dáil.

Health

The current crisis in the health servic-

es is not new, despite promises by government the additional beds have not all been delivered and the numbers on trollies and the delay times for treatments and surgeries is not acceptable. Swords needs a primary care centre, I was delighted to get a motion passed to facilitate this as part of the Fingal Development Plan and we will be working closely with the HSE and the Department of Health to ensure this is delivered.

There must be greater collaboration between community healthcare and acute hospitals to ensure that recovery and transitional care beds are available in the community for speedy discharges and the provision of care outside of hospitals where appropriate.

Crime

We need to tackle the growing crime and anti-social behaviour. This is a real problem– and there has been a lack of focus on making communities safe for everyone. As a member of the Joint Policing Committee (JPC) in Fingal, I have called for additional resources, community policing to be prioritised and for a local task force to deal with crime. The additional number of com-

munity Gardaí have had a positive impact in areas in Swords, but realistically the Garda station is not sufficient to meet the needs of a growing community and the resources needed to police the growth in population. This needs to be addressed as a priority to ensure the safety of our residents.

Environment

I’m a member of the Swords Woodland Association formed with the aim of maintenance of the green belt within the wider Swords area and promoting ways to ensure a greater appreciation of green spaces and promoting the planting of trees – one tree can absorb as much carbon in a year as a car produces driving 20K miles.

I also worked closely with the Save Swords Greenbelt group on their campaign to ensure that our environment is protected not just for current but for future generations to come.

Representing our

Community

The Local Property Tax for Fingal was set at a 7.5% deduction, although Sinn Féin asked Councillors to support my motion seeking the full 15% reduction.

In 2022 thousands of people took to the streets of Dublin protesting the

rising cost of living including members from other political parties. Alleviating hardship is what the council should be striving to do, and not adding to it. The highest number of people who replied to public consultation on LPT requested a figure of 11-15%, and that’s what the people in Fingal wanted, however Sinn Féin were the only party who voted against the lower deduction. Sinn Féin Councillors have worked hard on the Development Plan, representing interests of our communities in areas that will most benefit them. As we come to the final stage we will continue to make our decisions based on what is best for the people we represent. I have worked hard to represent residents since my election in 2019 and before that as a community activist and will continue to do so. I have always worked in the heart of our communities and am available to meet with groups and/or individuals to provide any support or assistance that I can.

Since Covid rather than formal clinic times, I have found that pre-arranged meetings work best for people. Please contact me if I can be of any assistance.

Our Team

Local News

Editor

communitylocalseditor@gmail.com

Advertising

Louise Hogan – 0862249299 louise@irishmediagroup.ie

Sean Maguire (Publisher) - 087 915 9052 seanmaguire@irishmediagroup.ie

Production

Tim Evans communitylocalsdesigner@gmail.com

Contact us

Swords Local Magazine www.Facebook.com/SwordsLocal Communitylocalseditor@gmail.com

Designated Pick up Points

Supervalu, Pavilions

JC’s, Swords Lidl, Rathbeale Road Applgreen, Malahide Rd., Swords

IRISHMEDIAGROUP

publishing | design | print | web

www.irishmediagroup.ie

How many times have you walked down your local street or local estate and wondered ‘Why isn’t there more going on here?’ or ‘Why isn’t there enough for the kids to do?’ These are questions we all ask ourselves on occasions and more often than not, there could be a lot more going on if we had more people willing to volunteer with local groups.

There are so many wonderful voluntary organisations out there in Fingal and the work that they do is invaluable to their respective communities. From sporting groups, walking groups, youth groups, Men’s Sheds, ICA groups, Comhaltas groups and the many, many more clubs, societies and organisations – local people rely heavily on them to make a difference to their daily lives.

But these organisations can only survive with the selfless work their volunteers provide who give up their own time after work and on weekends to make our lives more fulfilled. We love seeing more for us to do in our communities and are always looking for something new and exciting; just remember there would hardly be anything to do without these voluntary organisations and their volunteers.

As a community-based magazine group we really do deeply appreciate all out contributors and advertisers without whom the magazines would not be possible. But we also appreciate all the great work that is being done in Fingal by the community/voluntary and charitable sector. We also appreciate the work of carers who sometime are unpaid and to be honest cannot be paid enough for the love and care they give.

So all we can say is get involved in your community. Whether that is in sport, which helps our mental and physical health. Or maybe in one of the many wonderful voluntary, or charitable groups we have in Fingal and do your bit to show you appreciate all that life has given you. The rewards you will get cannot be measured in coins and notes but will be measured in the good mental and physical health you personally will gain from such work. Have a wonderful June!

STRICT DEADLINE FOR NEXT EDITION: Submissions by the 14th for inclusion in next months edition

The Locals Team

Roly’s Raffle for Meals on Wheels

The members of Swords Meals on Wheels were delighted when they learned that local singer and artist Roly Daniels has donated one of his painting to support a fundraising raffle for the local group.

Organised with the help of the Swords Bridge Club, the Meals on Wheels members were approached by Roly who offered to donate his signed painting ‘The Old Mill in Swords’ that

will be raffled to raise much needed funds for the group.

“We received a wonderful donation of a framed painting of ‘The Old Mill in Swords’ painted by none other than Roly Daniels the famous Irish singer, not only a terrific signer but also an accomplished artist that has had an exhibition recently in Donegal,” explained Niall MacNeill of Swords Meals on Wheels.

“Roly lives locally and wanted to do something to support Swords Meals on Wheels. This unique artwork will be raffled in aid of Swords Meals on Wheel. There will be 100 tickets, each ticket will cost €10. Swords Bridge Club were instrumental in organising this and we are extremely grateful to Roly for his time and skill. And to all in Swords Bridge Club for their support,” Mr MacNeill added.

So you think you have mortgage protection?

By Dave Kavanagh

There are two important aspects of both having and needing mortgage protection life cover. Firstly, there are those who have had mortgages for a number of years with mortgage protection life cover done in conjunction with it. For these people, it is well worth checking the current level of cover and remaining term on their mortgage protection and the same on their mortgage balance and term, to make sure there is sufficient cover. For example, in 2020 during the severe Covid lockdowns, many mortgage holders availed of a 6 month payment break. During this period, their mortgage protection cover will have continued to reduce, while their mortgage balances may have stayed level, or even increased if interest was capitalised. This could mean a shortfall in the event of a claim, meaning that the mortgage does not get fully cleared and there is a balance owing.

The second aspect to consider, is people who are planning to get a mortgage soon, or in the near future. They have saved regularly to build a deposit, maintained stable employment, avoided taking out new loans (and made sure any existing or previous loan obligations were paid in full and on time), conducted their current accounts efficiently, etc. but sadly, they don’t get to proceed with their house/apartment purchase (certainly

not in the time frame they wanted to) because they cannot get their mortgage protection life cover accepted. This could be due to their current or past medical history, or something simple like they have been referred for a test that has not yet been done. It’s why many are arranging their mortgage protection cover well in advance of drawing down their mortgage. Once in place, any new medical issues are not relevant. It can even save them money, as 36 years paying a cheaper premium (before another birthday has passed) is cheaper than 35 years at the higher premium.

Dave Kavanagh QFA has been advising people financially for over 25 years. For quotes or information (with no cost or obligation) he can be contacted by emailing info@ financialcompanion.ie or 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.

CHARTERED

Marie Keating Mobile Unit to Visit Swords

St Colmcille’s GFC are delighted to welcome the mobile unit from Marie Keating Foundation to our club house on Wednesday 5th June. This initiative is part of our Healthy Club and is open to all in the community .

The mobile unit will be at the clubhouse 10am-11.45am. Then, from 12pm-1pm there will be a Health held in the building with the nurse. There will be information and advice available on the topics Breast, Prostate and skin cancers.

CAR LOANS IN LOTS OF COLOURS

SPECIAL MEMBERS LOAN RATE

6.5% 6.7% APR

Fallen Kingdom Rises: A Review of “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes”

By Jack Shanley

“Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” picks up decades after the events of “War for the Planet of the Apes” with Caesar, the wise chimpanzee leader, a revered memory. Humanity has been ravaged by a virus, leaving a power vacuum filled by various ape communities. Enter Noa, a young gorilla raised on Caesar’s ideals of peace between species. His world is shattered by a brutal attack, setting him on a path of vengeance that unveils a brewing conflict within the ape society.

The film excels in its worldbuilding. Gone are the lush, green landscapes; a sense of decay hangs over the overgrown ruins of human civilization. The ape settlements, particularly the technologically advanced underwater city, showcase the evolution of ape society.

The visuals are stunning, with sweeping vistas and detailed set design making the post-apocalyptic world both believable and captivating.

While the story lacks the emotional depth of the previous trilogy, it compensates with thrilling action sequences. Noa’s journey is punctuated by intense chases and battles, keeping the audience on the edge of their seats. The film also delves into themes of legacy and

the struggle to maintain peace in a world yearning for conflict. However, “Kingdom” stumbles slightly with its pacing. The middle act drags a bit, with some repetitive plot points. The film also throws in a few convenient plot devices to propel the story forward. Despite these minor stumbles, the film shines in its central performance by Owen Teague as Noa. He portrays the character’s rage and grief with raw intensity, making Noa a compelling protagonist.

“Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” might not reach the heights of its predecessors, but it’s a worthy successor that expands the franchise’s universe. With its stunning visuals, thrilling action, and thought-provoking themes, it’s a compelling addition to the “Planet of the Apes” saga, leaving viewers eager for the next chapter in this ever-evolving ape kingdom. In all truth I’d recommend checking out “Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes” and see what you think of it, I shall give it a score of Four Stars. You can watch it at your local cinema today.

Director: Wes Ball– Rating: 12A – Genre: Action/Sci-fi– Run Time: 2h 25m Language: English. For more film content please follow @ movies4fanatics on Instagram.

Fingal residents invited to have their say in Bathing Waters annual review

With an 88km coastline stretching from Howth to north of Balbriggan, three large protected estuaries and a large number of major beaches, our natural heritage has a strong conservation and amenity value.

Each year, local authorities must identify official bathing areas in their area every year so that they can be monitored for safety, water quality and their level of use. To help with this process, Fingal County Council would like to hear from people who swim at beaches, lakes and rivers to tell them if they think they should maintain existing bathing waters designations or give a new official bathing area designation to areas that are commonly used for swimming but are not identified at the moment.

Under European and Irish law, Irish local authorities must identify bathing waters annually so that these areas can be monitored to ensure they meet stringent microbiological water quality standards. In some cases, the official bathing areas are also the areas where local authorities focus their resources providing lifeguards during the

These laws also require that the local authority prepares detailed descriptions or profiles for each of the identified bathing water sites that describe not just the bathing area but also areas in the surface waters catchment area that could be a source of pollution. The profiles include an assessment the risk of pollution and what action would be taken if pollution occurs.

Fingal has no shortage of stunning swimming spots to enjoy, with current identified bathing areas as follows: Claremont Beach, Howth; Burrow Beach, Sutton; Portmarnock Beach; Balcarrick Beach, Donabate; Brook Beach, Portrane; South Beach, Rush; North Beach, Rush; Loughshinny Beach; South Strand, Skerries; Balbriggan Beach.

Please note that Malahide Beach, while not identified as a bathing area, is lifeguarded as required by a Water Safety Ireland Risk Assessment (Constant Red Flag).

If you are a regular swimmer and want to help

A reflection for Father’s Day

By Jon Kavanagh

I recently caught sight of myself in a shop mirror. Oh, the shaved head, beard and glasses were a decent attempt at a disguise. But it was him – my late father. It’s not just the physical resemblance; I have inherited a few of his traits including: the coordination of Mr Bean, the patience of Gordon Ramsey and a morbid fear of change. Hugh Leonard summed up many fathers when he said, “Da spent his life sitting on a bed of briars, afraid to move in case someone took his seat.” He was old in mind and body at my current age. Decades of braving the elements as a farm labourer; sweltering whilst picking tomatoes in glass houses close to Swords or freezing as he sat on a potato harvester near Donabate village where he purchased offal in a butcher’s shop. Back then everyone had a defined role. His was to bring home the wage packet on Friday evening. Born, as World War One raged in 1917, he got a basic primary school education before embarking on a lifetime in the

decide which bathing areas should be identified for the 2025 season, it may be helpful to consider the following: How your swimming area has been used up to now? How many people use the site? What facilities (e.g. signage, parking, toilets, picnic area etc) exist at the site and how accessible it is? Any safety issues?

If you wish to propose your favourite beach/ river etc as a new bathing water site, or would like to comment on an existing site, please make your submission through our consultation portal or post your written submission to: Operations Department (Bathing Waters), Fingal County Council, Grove Road, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15.

The bathing water quality results and annual classification of bathing waters can be viewed at www.beaches.ie. The latest available EPA report Bathing Water in Ireland Report can be viewed here: https://www.epa.ie/publications/ Closing date for submissions is Thursday, 26th September 2024.

fields of Fingal. He had a simple life with few luxuries; living in primitive rented accommodation and traveling on a bone shaker bicycle. He owned two suits, a good one for Sundays, and another one for workdays. When the good one became a bit shabby it was demoted to weekdays and a new one was bought for Sundays. He never took a holiday, but opted instead to take two weeks extra pay each year. We always looked forward to the “holiday money”. He didn’t take a day off for my confirmation but choose to show his love by buying me my first wristwatch. His downtime was spent tending a large vegetable and fruit garden where Adam and Eve wouldn’t have looked out of place, cycling long distances to visit extended family and friends and watching western movies on TV. On Sunday afternoons he would visit the local for a couple of pints. If he could board the Tardis and return to earth in 2024, he would assume he was on another planet. Although over a quarter of a century has come and gone since he passed, he still plays a part in my life. He was a good man, who did the best he could with limited resources. One wonders what he might have achieved if opportunity had knocked on his door.

For more information, scan our QR code: or visit: fingal.ie/LocalElections2024 For queries, email: RegisterOfElectors@fingal.ie Your councillor is your voice Your councillor is your voice

Make sure to vote on 7 June

Déan teagmháil linn ag:

Déan teagmháil linn ag:

Fingal Community Groups Receive Funding Boost

Over €220,000 in funding has been allocated to 130 community groups and organisations across Fingal at an event held ringside at Phoenix of Ballyboughal Boxing Club.

The Department of Rural and Community Development’s Local Enhancement Programme (LEP) 2024 is administered by Local Community Development Committees, with support from the Local Authority, in each area. The funding provides capital supports essential for the many small community groups and organisations, particularly those who serve disadvantaged areas in rural and urban areas.

This year also saw additional funding allocated towards many Women’s Groups in Fingal, helping to support the growing number of Women’s Sheds located in the county, as well as providing a welcome boost to local groups which provide much needed social networks for women.

Speaking at the announcement, Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Adrian Henchy, said: “This funding is particularly important as it brings significant

investment to the many groups and organisations working in communities across Fingal, especially those in disadvantaged areas. Not only is this level of support from the LEP crucial for carrying out necessary repairs and enhancements to facilities, but it will go some way to helping assist groups in providing invaluable community initiatives locally.”

Announcing the successful projects for Fingal, Minister Joe O’Brien TD said: “The Local Enhancement Programme 2024 provides vital support to community groups in order to help them improve their facilities. It supports smallscale funding for projects which range from purchasing IT equipment to minor renovations to buildings. Ultimately the Programme responds to local needs. These investments allow community groups to carry out the invaluable work they do on behalf of others in local areas throughout the country. The impact of the Local Enhancement Programme is considerable.”

John Quinlivan, Director of Economic

Development at Fingal County Council, said: “The LEP represents a substantial funding source that complements other support from Fingal County Council. We deeply value the essential work of volunteers and community groups who are out there actively making Fingal a better place to live, so it is thanks to Government funding like the LEP that groups can continue to play an important role within our communities.”

LEP funding was made available to support small capital works/improvements, the purchase of equipment for community use, including tables and chairs, tools, signage, laptops and printers, lawnmowers, canopies and training equipment. A full list of groups is available here: LEP Recipients 2024

The Local Enhancement Programme 2024 was launched in December 2023 with funding of €6 million available nationally, which included €1 million in funding ring-fenced specifically to support Women’s Groups.

This month it’s all about the Daddies on Father’s Day! We like to buy Irish as much as possible so here are some of our favourite companies for gift ideas. For hampers, whether sweets, craft beers, wine or a picnic hamper of yummy treats, Hampers & Co. has a huge range to choose from, starting at €12.50 for their retro sweet hamper!

Despite the warmer weather, mornings and evenings are chilly and Irish company 4THArq has a wonderful range of Unisex joggers and sweatshirts; perfect for gifting Dads. We particularly love the stone collection. See www.4tharq.com.

Airmid shaving sets, made with essential oils, help keep Dads skin soft and smooth.

Tipperary Crystal has cool Dad gifts like sunglasses, socks, wallets, hats & more. Malena Shirts are brilliant – with a hidden zip behind the buttons, they give a streamlined look. Check our FB page where we’re giving away Malena shirts, Airmid set and Tipperary Crystal goodies https://www.facebook.com/ mams.ireland

Fancy taking Dad to dinner? Acapulco Mexican Restaurant in Dublin city centre is scrumptious. They make their own nachos in house and their sizzling fajitas are delicious. Our kids love it too. It’s

so good!

Looking to book a summer family break? Bracken Court has family friendly packages which include a host of activities. It’s a 5 min walk to beach and train station and easily accessible to Dublin city. Rooms are spacious; we love staying with our 4 children.

Another wonderful hotel is Four Seasons Carlingford. Recently refurbished, with spacious rooms, lovely restaurant, relaxing spa and pool. They have excellent family packages and there’s lots to do nearby including Skypark and Carlingford water activities.

For an oasis of woodland calm in Cavan countryside, Farnham Estate is great for family breaks. Delicious dining, woodland walks, golf course, spa and their famous indoor/ outdoor pool. We had a family wedding here and it was completely fabulous!

Pillo Hotel in Ashbourne is a great spot for family breaks, with packages that include passes to Emerald Park where you can try the new rollercoaster! Easy access to Dublin city and Ashbourne village is lovely for a stroll through.

For more ideas on Father’s day gifts and summer break suggestions, go to www.mams.ie

New Cycle Tracks to Benefit all Cyclists in Fingal

Two new learn 2 cycle tracks are being installed by Fingal County Council, at Millennium Park, Blanchardstown and in the park adjacent to Brackenstown Road, Swords.

These new cycle tracks will be used for cycling practice by local schools, for group cycling classes arranged by Fingal County Council and will also be open to the public for their use. These tracks will provide a safe learning environment for cycling students of all ages, from small children learning to cycle for the first time to those returning to cycling in their older years, and everyone in between. By learning on a flat surface with correct road markings people will learn to cycle safely obeying the rules of the road. This will later help them to feel confident and safe when using the road in reality. Mayor of Fingal, Councillor Adrian Henchy, says ‘The learn 2 cycle track in Millennium Park was fully completed last week. It was created on top of the concrete area that is used for the skating rink in the festive period each year. By choosing this location this space has now become a useful feature all year-round, providing cycling opportunities when the ice rink is not in situ.’

Chief Executive of Fingal County Council, AnnMarie Farrelly says ‘Following the successful installation of

the new learn 2 cycle track at Millennium Park, the active travel unit will shortly begin installing the second track in the park adjacent to Brackenstown Road, Swords. . This track will be located just off the Brackenstown Road, next to the playground and very close the local senior and junior national schools at St. Cronan’s. It’s an ideal location where people of all ages, including local pupils, will get great use out of it.’

David Storey, Director of Environment, Climate Action, Active Travel and Sport says ‘These new learn 2 cycle tracks will provide perfect locations for our cycling education programmes. Our cycling and walking officers will offer courses for adults, children and schools programmes in both spaces and we look forward to seeing lots of people using the tracks to practice their own safe cycling skills and teach their children those same skills. Off-road cycling on a course like these ones can really build your confidence and help you understand the safe behaviours needed when cycling on the road while also providing a fun experience in the parks.’

The learn 2 cycle track at Millennium Park is open to the public and the Swords track is expected to be complete and open to the public before the end of May.

FCC plan to grow athletics talent in Fingal

An exciting new partnership has been announced between the Fingal Athletics League and Morton Games that will help the growth of athletics in Fingal and help create unparalleled opportunities for young athletes. The collaboration between the Fingal Athletics League - known for its commitment to grassroots development - and Morton Games - a World Athletics Continental Tour International track and field event - brings together two pillars of athletics in one of the countries youngest regions. Morton Games, which takes place in the Morton Stadium, Dublin has since 2011 consistently

attracted top-tier athletes from around the globe to its prestigious events. By partnering with Fingal Athletics League, Morton Games aims to strengthen its commitment to nurturing talent at all levels of the sport. Located in Fingal, Morton Stadium has undergone a significant €3m refurbishment project led by Dublin City University and which sees a new Mondo track installed. The stadium is also home to the iconic Morton Mile event which attracts domestic and international stars. This collaboration signifies a new chapter in athletics, one that is characterised

by unity, collaboration, and a shared passion for the sport. Fingal Athletics League and Morton Games look forward to a bright future of growth, innovation, and success. The Fingal Athletics League Finals Day will take place on 24th April at ALSAA Sports Complex, with 2,700 students from 61 primary schools across Fingal coming together to showcase their talent. Morton Games takes place on Friday July 12th in the Morton Stadium Dublin from 5.30pm with the international programme starting at 7.00pm. For further details visit mortongames.ie/

Swords Karate Club News

Swords Karate Club Welcome World Taekwondo Chief Instructor

Regular training took place on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays this month. All students are training really well with an eye on grading at either the JKS National Grading in Drumcondra or at the Club grading next month. The grading’s for new belts are important milestones for each student as they become more proficient at their Karate practice.

We linked in with our JKS Tallaght friends for a fundraising Bag pack for the JKS Ireland Squad members (some who are from JKS Swords), going to Japan in July for the World Karate Championships. We did really well and the funds will go directly to the Squad members to help them with the expenses of this trip.

This month (May), we are delighted to host Masao Kagawa Shihan, 9th Dan JKS, for a three-day seminar. Kagawa Shihan is the World Chief Instructor of JKS Karate and we are very fortunate that he visits Ireland once a year. Over the three days, Kagawa Shihan will instruct members of JKS Swords and other JKS clubs in many technical aspects of karate. He will also conduct Dan grading’s (Black Belt examinations) and Qualifications in areas such as Judging and Refereeing. A full report of the Seminar will follow in next month’s edition of our Club news.

Our Club is always looking for new members (Children, Young People & Adults). Contact Dermot on 087-8073885 for details on how to join our club. You can also contact us on Facebook: JKS Swords Karate Club or on Instagram: @jks_swords_karate_club

WIN €50 !!! WIN €50 !!! WIN €50 !!! WIN €50 !!!

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 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 drawn will win €50..Good luck

Across

1. Hospital department for outpatients. (6)

5. The capital of Lebanon. (6)

10. Court official. (7)

11. Tool for tennis. (7)

12. Irish dance. (4)

13. The man for a fable. (5)

15. Caribbean Socialist republic. (4)

17. Large deer. (3)

19. Settle snugly and comfortably. (6)

21. The paper used to vote. (6)

22. Withdraw assistance when it is needed. (7)

23. Self-confident assurance, poise. (6)

25. Cowboy of the pampas. (6)

28. Church bench. (3)

30. Break into someone’s computer. (4)

31. Lowest rank in British nobility. (5)

32. Leave out. (4)

35. Mr. Bloom’s first name. (7)

36. To talk nonsense. (7)

37. Small and sturdy hunting dog. (6)

38. The remains of a fire. (6)

Down

2. Hangs around aimlessly. (7)

3. Metal fastener. (4)

4. Hot drink made from roasted beans. (6)

5. Famous Hungarian composer. (6)

6. Imperial measurement. (4)

7. Rare and strange. (7)

8. The King of the Fairies. (6)

9. A narrow channel linking two larder bodies of water. (6)

14. Gracefully thin. (7)

16. Where Davy Crockett and Jim Bowie died. (5)

18. Devoid of freshness or originality. (5)

20. The movement of the tide out to sea. (3)

21. Turf provider. (3)

23. Ireland’s largest island. (6)

24. The sugar in milk. (7)

26. It’s used as a moth repellent. (7)

27. A strong protest or objection. (6)

28. Walk with bare feet in shallow water. (6)

29. Sway unsteadily. (6)

33. Percussion instrument and medal. (4)

34. A young sheep. (4)