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April 21, 2011

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Green light is given for new school Q LAURA WEBB

THERE was a major boost on the schools front this week after planning officials at Fingal County Council gave the green light for the construction of a new school building for Mulhuddart NS. The school, which will be constructed beside Tyrrelstown Educate Together, will be a purpose-built, threestorey building with 24 class-

rooms, a library and resource room and dedicated sports facilities.

Welcoming the news, Dublin West TD and Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Leo Varadkar, described the decision to grant planning permission for a new building for Mulhuddart National School as a “great day for Tyrrelstown and Mulhuddart”.

Full Story on Page 2

Artistic eyes: St Benedict’s pupils brush up on art work THE STUDENTS of St Benedict’s school

in Ongar displayed their impressive works of art as part of the school’s first art exhibition in their new state-of-theart building. Parents were proud as punch to see their kids’ masterpieces

displayed in the school hall and many parents also purchased the work that was professionally framed for all to see.

Enjoying the scenery are Sean and Deirdre Deery. Pictures: Peter Doyle Full Story on Page 6

2 BLANCH GAZETTE 21 April 2011

RACE

EDUCATION: MULHUDDART NS

Stars do bit for charity RESIDENTS will be given the opportunity to meet some of the country’s best-known GAA faces at the Blanchardstown Centre this weekend as part of Race the Ras charity cycle.

Former Dublin stars Coman Goggins, Senan Connell, Ciaran Whelan, Paul Clarke, Mick P e n d e r a n d D e cl a n Darcy are all taking part in the charity cycle next month in aid of GOAL and The Irish Cancer Society. They will be at the centre this Easter Saturday afternoon.

The former inter-county footballers are joining a host of well-known exGAA players, plus members of the public from all over Ireland, to cycle at least one stage of the 2011 An Post Ras tour of Ireland from Sunday, May 22 to Sunday, May 29.

Log on to www.racetheras.com for further information.

Green light given for new school Q LAURA WEBB blanchardstown@gazettegroup.com

Conference: Local is elected at Annual Foroige Leaders Conference A BLANCHARDSTOWN local was elected vice-chairperson of the

National Executive of Foroige at the Annual Foroige Leaders Conference. At the 41st Annual Foroige Leaders conference, which took place from April 8-10 in Hotel Kilkenny, volunteerism was celebrated amongst all its members, including nine from Blanchardstown. The members were given an opportunity to share ideas, seek advice and learn from each other. RTE Dragon and past member of Ballyhaise Foroige Club in Cavan, Sean Gallagher, gave an inspirational keynote address to the members. But, for the Blanchardstown Group, the highlight had to be fellow leader Paul Maher, from Hartstown Pyramid Foroige Club, getting elected to the position of vice-chairperson of the National Council of Foroige.

The theme of the conference, Building a Better Ireland through Youth Development, helped to prepare volunteers for the vital role they have in Ireland’s economic and social recovery.

Pictured are: front row, Ciara Fallon, Nonie McGee, Sean Campbell (CEO), Mairi McMahon (chairperson of the National Council), Margaret Henry. Back row: Dave O’Reilly, Ruth McGarry Quinn, Jimmy Conway, Paul Maher and Phil Keating.

PLANNING permission for the construction of a new school building for Mulhuddart NS has been given the green light from Fingal County Council.

The school, which will be constructed beside Tyrrelstown Educate Together, will be a purpose-built, three-storey building with 24 classrooms, a library and resource room and dedicated sports facilities.

The planning department at Fingal County Council granted planning permission for the new school building on April 8.

Welcoming the news, Dublin West TD and Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Leo Varadkar has described the decision to grant

planning permission for a new building for Mulhuddart National School as a “great day for Tyrrelstown and Mulhuddart”.

“This is tremendous news for Tyrrelstown and Mulhuddart. We can now look forward to a purpose-built national school with full facilities, and with the capacity to deal with the area’s rapidly growing population.

“Parents and families have been campaigning for years for a permanent school building.

They have been housed in prefabs since they moved from Mulhuddart to Tyrrelstown in 2009, and it would have been very unfair to keep them in prefabs for much longer.

“The new three-storey building should be an excellent facility for the school with 24 classrooms, a library and

resource room, and dedicated sporting facilities.”

Fine Gael Cllr Kieran Dennison said: “Mulhuddart NS already has 270 pupils, and now has room to expand properly. This is vital when the area has one of the highest birth rates in the country. I am very pleased that Mulhuddart NS and Tyrrelstown Educate Together schools will now both get purpose-built facilities.

And, with 60 acres of guaranteed open space and community facilities, this is a really great place to live and bring up a family.”

Minister Varadkar went on to extend his congratulations to everyone “who has campaigned hard for the school, including its management team, and Tyrrelstown Residents’ Association”.

21 April 2011 BLANCH GAZETTE 3

HEALTH Local brings Bikram Yoga to Dublin 15

Turning up the heat on fitness Q LAURA WEBB

castleknock@gazettegroup.com

A CASTLEKNOCK resident is turning up the heat on fitness for Dublin 15 with classes in Bikram Yoga, a type of yoga that is taken in a heated room, which is said to be a great healer to injuries, as well as preventing them.

Anne-Marie Browne took up Bikram Yoga after trying everything she could to relieve her chronic back pain. When a friend told her about Bikram Yoga she gave it a go, and, after three years at it, she changed careers and went from being an architect to a Bikram Yoga instructor.

She trained under

founder Bikram Choudhury, from India, for an intense nine-week programme in Acapulco in Mexico, where participants “eat and drink” yoga to ensure they are ready to teach others.

For Anne-Marie, this is a path she has never regretted taking.

“I had constant injuries from sport. I used to run, cycle and horseride but my back was really bad for years, it was constant, and I was young, which was crazy. I was in and out of physio, chiropractor, osteopaths and someone told me to try this.

“I never did yoga before and I wasn’t sure how to take it initially, but I kept going and

found a fantastic relief, and I didn’t have to go to physio or the chiropractor anymore.

“The heat is the big thing in it, and the postures are designed to heal. Bikram Choudhury devised a series of postures for injuries. It is 42 degrees, so it is hot, but it is a fantastic detox.

It works with your body from the inside out. Every organ, ligament, muscle, joint in your body works in a 90-minute class, it is a really great workout. It does everything. You just feel fantastic after it.

“I never looked back and never regretted anything I have done. I think Bikram Yoga is so healing that I wanted to bring it to other people,”

she said.

Open just six months, Ann-marie has had to increase classes to facilitate the demand.

“I am getting a great response and I have three football teams coming to me. People come from Newbridge, Naas and Navan and they are finding it fantastic relief. Not only does it heal injuries, but it helps to prevent them. It is very good for the joints, very good for athletes.”

According to AnnMarie, people should give it a few classes before making a decision on whether or not it is for them.

“There is an introductory offer for €29 for 10

Ann-Marie has had to increase classes to facilitate demand

consecutive days so people could come as many times as they wanted for 10 days. Once they could tackle the heat after two or three classes, they can then understand what it can do for them. That offer is there to get peo-

ple in and understand it,” she said.

Anne-Marie’s Bikram Yoga is located at the Coolmine Industrial estate.

For further information log onto w w w. bikramdublin.ie.

MEDITATION

Free Yoga seminar HUNDREDS of people from all over the world will descend on Dublin to attend a seminar on meditation and its benefits.

A free Sahaja Yoga meditation programme takes place on April 23 at 7pm in the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel in Golden Lane, Dublin 8. Free weekly programmes take place locally every Monday at 7.30pm at Blakestown Community Centre, Blakestown Way (next to Lidl).

The founder of Sahaja Yoga, Shri Mataji Nirmala Devi, always stipulated that the meditation and its techniques should always be offered free.

Courses and meetings are supervised by unpaid volunteers, and all costs for things like room and hall hire are met through the voluntary contributions of these practitioners.

4 BLANCH GAZETTE 21 April 2011

Laurel Lodge Carpenterstown Drama group’s new show UCAN Dramatic Society are staging J o a n n a Mu r r ay Smith’s hilarious comedy, The Female of the Species, in The Spa Hotel from Tuesday, May 3 until Friday, May 16.

The play is a look at feminism in a humorous way while, the producers say, acknowledging “that investing feminism with comedy is a mark of respect where it is strong enough to laugh at itself.”

Performances start at 8.30pm, admission is €10 per person with concessionary prices for students and senior citizens.

The proceeds of the first night are being very generously donated to St Francis Hospice, Blanchardstown.

For tickets, telephone Sheila at 6282827 or Bernie at 086-4015794.

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With Jim Lacey Phone: 087-2401308 Email: jimlacey@eircom.net

Local heritage group’s visit to Maynooth College HE Fingal South We s t H e r i t a g e Society travelled to Maynooth College on Saturday for a guided tour of the college.

Ror y O’Connor, a member of the Society and a former student of the college, led the tour.

Over 25 members of the Society and friends attended.

Rory told the gathering how Maynooth College was founded in 1795 as the national seminary. It became a Pontifical University in 1896 with permission to confer canonical degrees in philosophy, theology and canon law. It is now open to all qualifying candidates

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since 1966. Up to then it catered solely for clerical students studying for the Catholic priesthood.

The college was originally set up with the support of funds from the Westminster Parliament.

The Penal Code discriminating against the practice, teaching and worship of the Roman Catholic religion, and the various laws designed to force adherents of that religion to become members of the Established Church, were being dismantled at this time.

The Roman Catholic Church had recognised the Hanoverian succession in Britain. The French Revolution had caused turmoil all over Europe and the British Government was now at war with France. The Government needed to placate Irish Catholic dissatisfaction. The result was the passing of an Act for the better education of persons professing the Popish or Roman Catholic Religion.

The monies provided by the Act helped build Maynooth College. Lord Redesdale remarked at the time that Maynooth was worth a couple of regiments of cavalry.

The group from the Fingal South West Heritage Society were told

by Rory O’Connor how the site was selected and acquired. It was originally

Over 25 members of the Fingal South West Heritage Society took part in the tour

the site of a college built

by Gerard Fitzgerald, the 8th Earl of Kildare. The ivy-covered tower of St Mary’s Church of Ireland is all that remains of that college. The site is most historic and a castle built by Maurice Fitzgerald, who arrived there in 1176, is still there albeit in a semi-ruinous state. The Fitzgerald family, earls of Kildare, lived there and were a powerful force in Ireland until King Henry VIII faced them down militarily.

The family, through a sole surviving member, a half-brother, climbed their way back into court as Dukes of Leinster and Carton House and its demesne, and Leinster House, now the site of the houses of the Oireachtais, were properties owned by them.

The group then moved

on to the college Museum – the National Science Museum at St Patrick’s College Maynooth, to give the museum its full title.

It includes religious artefacts, including Penal Crosses, gold inlay investments presented by Elizabeth (Sissi) Empress of Austria, also vestments associated with Irish clergy who ministered to Queen Marie Antoinette who was guillotined during the French revolution. There is also a fine death mask of Daniel O’Connell and a damaged figure of Christ from the siege of Drogheda.

Nicholas Callan, the renowned inventor of the induction coil who laboured in Maynooth for many years in the interest of science, is featured. His many artefacts and scientific apparatus-

es are on display. There are also many items associated with wireless and telegraphy, and light and sound.

It was then on to the beautiful walled garden where daffodils, bluebells and tulips were in full bloom and, in the centre, a large Wellingtonia tree.

The group then went on to see the College Chapel, reputedly the largest choir church in the world. This is a most beautiful church in the style of 14th-century French gothic church architecture, and was built between 1875 and not finished until 1905 when the spire was erected.

The original architect was JJ McCarthy, known as the Irish Pugin, who died during the construction of the church, it was completed by Wil-

liam Hague. The interior, largely the work of Hague, has the most stunningly beautiful stained glass windows. The beautiful choir stalls capable of holding 300 singers are spectacular.

The Fingal South West Heritage Society meet on the last Saturday of the month at Blanchardstown Library (except Bank Holiday weekends) and will be organising more outings during the summer months.

New members are very welcome. The next outing will be a Walk and Talk along the Royal Canal, from Kirkpatrick Bridge.

Meet at the car park, Coolmine Railway Station at 2pm, Saturday, May 14. Yours truly will be providing the commentary as we walk along the towpath to Clonsilla.

21 April 2011 BLANCH GAZETTE 5

FUNDRAISING Group seeks help from locals

IndeCare appeal to women to raise money WOMEN are being asked to put their best foot forward by taking part in this year’s Flora Women’s Mini Marathon in aid of IndeCare – previously Friendly Call Service – a service that aims to support older and vulnerable members of the community.

IndeCare recently rebranded to highlight the variety of work the service is involved in.

The service, which has in the past received up to half of its funding from the HSE, has seen this dramatically reduced. Now fundraisers and donations play a major part in funding the free service.

Speaking to the Gazette this week, Danny Bell of IndeCare Ireland in Dub-

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lin 15 explained the reason for the re-brand.

“Over the years we became aware of how communication technology could provide more varied comfort. We were in telecare, and we got ourselves connected into the area of telehealth. This has the capacity to allow people suffering from chronic illness stay at home longer before they have to end up in hospital, or those with chronic illness, but not terminal, could leave hospital and get back into the environment of their own home, by having blood pressure or heartbeat measured on a regular basis.

“All of that had us running in all sorts of directions in addition to our

core business of a friendly call. Technology support is the ultimate place for this service and trying to broaden awareness of what we could do, we found that calling ourselves friendly call curtailed the range of things that we could do or the impression of the range of things we could do.

“We looked at everything and came up with a description of what we believe we do – is to provide independent living assistance.”

According to Bell, the service is helping the HSE save money by reducing the demand for home help or the public health nurse to “travel from A-B just to deal with loneliness”.

When the service first set up, the HSE provided half the costs for the service. However, over the past few years this has been cut.

“The reality is the pattern over the 7-8 years has been that the HSE would contribute, give or take, around half of our costs.

Over the last few years that has been reducing dramatically.”

The service is now seeking the help of the local community to take part in the Flora Mini Marathon this June 6 and raise much-need funds for IndeCare. Over 20 staff and friends of IndeCare have already registered.

To find out more, log onto www.indecare.ie or phone 884 8040 .

Cutting a fine figure: Greg brings his hairdressing to Dublin 15 THERE was good news for those wishing their crowning glory

looking its best as The Colour Team hair salon and Best Barbers are now open at The Crescent Shopping Centre in Dublin 15.

The state-of-the-art salon’s owner Greg Sheppard has over 20 years experience in the industry and says he loves what he does: “It’s never like work to me; I’m very lucky I love my job.”

6 BLANCH GAZETTE 21 April 2011

GARDAI: PREPARING FOR SCHOOLS Parents delighted with show in new building BANK HOLIDAY TRAVEL

Road safety crackdown GARDAI are appealing to road users to heed the warnings on road safety over the coming bank holiday weekends and help “stop the carnage”.

An Garda Siochana want to make roads safe this Easter and May Bank Holiday by appealing to road users to heed the warnings on road safety.

Since the start of 2011, 61 people have died on our roads. This is an increase of six people, compared to the same period last year.

Gardai will be mounting additional checkpoints over the bank holiday weekends and in the intervening days.

In the last two years (2009/2010), 13 people were killed and 33 people were seriously injured on Irish roads at this time.

Speaking at Garda Headquar ters, John

Twomey, assistant commissioner for traffic, said: “Let’s keep our roads safe this Easter and May Bank Holiday. I am asking every person in Ireland that use the roads to make a commitment that they will do so safely, and with care and consideration for the other people they meet along the way.

“Please take heed of the warnings from An Garda Siochana and our partners in the Road Safety Authority and community organisations. This carnage on our roads has to stop.

“Gardai will be active over the forthcoming holiday period, with the objective of saving lives. In particular, we will focus on drivers driving under the influence, speeding and also those using handheld mobile phones while driving,” he said.

Lynn McDonald, coordinator; Noreen Behan, principal and Orla Doyle

Sean and Deirdre Deery. Pictures: Peter Doyle

Ridwan and Kevin

St Benedicts’ pupils brush up on art work Q LAURA WEBB blanchardstown@gazettegroup.com

PARENTS flocked to St Benedict’s school in Ongar last week, to catch a glimpse of a multitude of talent that the students had on display.

The students were displaying their work as part of the school’s first art exhibition in their new state-of-the-art building.

Proud as punch to see their kids’ artwork displayed in the school hall,

many parents purchased the work that was professionally framed for all to see.

The school first moved into the modern facilities on November 1 and, as a way of showing off the new building, and also the talent of the students, Lynn McDonald, art coordinator and teacher, decided that an art exhibition was the best way to do both.

She said: “We just wanted to celebrate

the children’s work and invite the parents to the new school building.

“All the kids were involved in it, and children from the special needs class can also get involved; it’s just very inclusive.

“We wanted to bring the parents in and for the children to see how proud their parents are of them.”

In conjunction with the exhibition, the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) hosted a cake sale in the community centre, which is set to be a shared facility with the school and the community.

According to Principal Noreen Behan, the exhibition and the PTA cake sale also helped to create “a networking” event with the parents.

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‘We wanted to bring the parents in [to see the art exhibition] and for the children to see how proud their parents are of them’

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“This is where integration will start. Parents came in and sat together, and parents who never met each other had coffee together. It creates networking [opportunities],” she said.

All of the 374 students entered a piece into the exhibition. Their art-

work was then framed by Images School Art Exhibition, which gave the exhibition a very professional gallery look.

Lynn McDonald said: “Parents could buy the pictures in the frame for €10. This was done through Images School Art Exhibition. It looks great.

“Art, for the school, is a very important part of the curriculum, because it is inclusive and allows children to express themselves,” she said.

Principal Behan said: “I am gobsmacked by it.

I have never seen anything like it.

“It’s fantastic, and everyone worked really hard on it.

“This is also a nice fundraiser for the school, which is always the icing on the cake,” she said.

21 April 2011 BLANCH GAZETTE 7

EVENT Local school claims top spot in competition

Blakestown wins the top prize Q LAURA WEBB blanchardstown@gazettegroup.com

BLAKESTOWN Community School upped its game this year as its entry into the Show Racism the Red Card competition beat over 80 schools and youth groups to claim top prize in the national campaign against racism.

Last year, the school were runners-up, but, this year, the students went that little bit further to take home first prize.

The creative competition invites students from all over the country to submit written, visual, and audiovisual pieces.

This year, fifth-year students from McBride Class and Ms Mary Quinn’s fifth-year art class at Blakestown Community School devised an international cookbook with recipes from all over the world, a mural for their school, a self-penned song, entitled Show Rac-

ism the Red Card, as well as a programme of activities throughout the school year, resulting in a World Cup football tournament based on the school’s different nationalities. They also showed their artistic talent through colourful posters.

The school was announced the winner during a ceremony at the Aviva Stadium on April 12 in front of an audience of 500.

Receiving their certificates for participation in the programme, the students all gathered at the school last Friday, where Principal Eileen O’Connor talked of how proud the students should be of their work and involvement in the competition, that led them to bringing home the top prize.

“Without the students talent, or the dedication from Ms Mary Quinn (art teacher) we would not be

Blakestown Community School wins with Show Racism the Red Card entry

here today and have this fantastic award for the school. Show Racism the Red Card is a campaign to highlight anti-racism in a positive way. Last year we were all excited when we came back runners-up. Then the call came through to say we won this year that just felt fantastic. When I saw the students getting off the bus with the trophy I was

thrilled for them.

“Students put themselves out there, and these fifth-year students have put us [the school] on the map. All the work the students have done, the dedication and commitment, it is all deeply appreciated. Well done to everyone involved,” Ms O’Connor said.

The principal went on to congratulate the

musicians with their selfpenned song for the competition, which they performed at the ceremony.

Mayor of Fingal County Council, Ken Farrell, said he was delighted to be invited to celebrate the win. “If we were to select any award to win, this is the greatest achievement for this school. It fits lovely with this school.”

Co-ordinator for Show

Racism the Red Card Garrett Mullan commented on the winning entry saying “this was a practical demonstration that the benefits of having people from many nationalities at school brings. In their project, young people learned about each other’s countries and were introduced to new foods through their activities.”

CARERS

Funding boost for groups A DUBLIN West TD has welcomed the announcement that carers and active retirement groups in the area are to receive funding to improve security for older people.

Local TD and Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Leo Varadkar said he was delighted that funding has been made available to the Blanchardstown Carers’ Association and the Castleknock Active Retirement Association.

“This funding is being aw a r d e d u n d e r t h e Senior Alert Scheme to help older people feel safe and secure in their homes. My colleague, Minister Frances Fitzgerald has confirmed that €1,180 will be made available to Blanchardstown Carers’ Association under the scheme.”

8 BLANCH GAZETTE 21 April 2011

EVENT

The Crown Plaza Hotel plays host to a fashion

Crowds attend a feast of fashion HE Crown Plaza Hotel was the venue for parents of D15’s St Brigids National School to turn out in large numbers for this year’s annual fashion show in aid of the school. Over 300 attended the event which ensured that the atmosphere was buzzing.

The colourful show was hosted by RTE presenter Blathnaid Ni Chofaigh who said she was delighted to be part of this special event. Mums, dads and teachers bravely glided down the the stage wearing the latest fashions around.

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Sam Connolly, Brigid Moloney, Denise McIntyre and Ingrid Grist (Lisa Barker Boutique). Picture: Peter Doyle

Avril Murgatroyd and Aideen Whelan

Caroline Curtis, Tina O’Basogie and Sinead Gallagher

Elaine McCarthy and Ann Delaney

Eunice McMenamin, Hazel McDonald and Elaine Davis

Blathnaid Ni Chofaigh and Jo

Celine Sharkey and Christine

Hughes

Maxwell

21 April 2011 BLANCH GAZETTE 9

extravaganza in aid of St Brigid’s National School

Orla Donnelly, Ann Marie Baxter, Anne McCarthy, Jo Hayes and Mary Foly, PTA Committee

Rosaleen Proudfoot and Phil Ruane

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10 BLANCH GAZETTE 21 April 2011

EVENT Graduation ceremony for Bridge to Work women

Sheila McDonnell and Catherine

Guy Thompson - Deputy President D15 Chamber, with Margaret McDonnell

The women proudly pose with their certificates. Pictures: Peter Doyle

Guy and Kathleen McDonnell

Guy Thompson, Anne Marie McDonnell and Catherine Joyce, manager Blanchardstown Traveller Guy with Winnie McDonagh and Catherine Joyce.

Pictures: Peter Doyle

Development Group

Julie Keenan with Guy

Louise McDonagh with Guy

Helping women bridge gap to work T was a proud day for 10 women at a graduation ceremony in Blanchardstown recently when they received their certificates. The women took part in the first pilot programme of its kind in the country, which was set up to improve job-hunting skills for members of the Traveller Community. The 20-week Bridge to Work initiative was the brainchild of the Blanchardstown Traveller Development Group, which works to improve education, skill-sets, rights awareness and healthcare within the local Traveller Community. The women learned about CV preparation, job interview skills, using the internet for finding job opportunities and effective telephone skills. Uniquely, the training programme also focused on the perceived barriers to employment by the Traveller community.

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12 GAZETTE 21 April 2011

CHARITY: PERSONAL INSTRUCTOR TAKES PART IN LOOK WHO’S COOKING

Trainer to cook meal fit to raise charity cash A CASTLEKNOCK personal trainer is swapping his sweats for a chef’s attire, when he takes part in Look who is Cooking’ fundraising night at Wright’s Anglers Rest in aid of Concern’s Climb Kilimanjaro Challenge.

Michal Rupinski, from Poland, but living in Castleknock, is preparing to take on the Kilimanjaro Challenge 2011.

Michal has lived in Ireland for the last six years and has worked as a personal trainer in Educogym, Castleknock, helping hundreds of people transform their shape and change their health and wellbeing.

The adventure-seeker heard about a group of people hiking in the Wicklow Mountains in preparation for a Kilimanjaro climb and he couldn’t resist joining the challenge.

Killimanjaro Challenge 2011 is a challenge event organised by Action Challenge from the UK for a group of people who will be raising funds for Concern Worldwide. The group will leave Ireland on June 23 this year and should reach the summit on June 29, after a five-day trek.

“I only signed up for the challenge in January this year and, thanks to huge support of people that I know, I have already raised over €3,500 through different events like cake sales, school talks and others. Literally everybody I was talking to offered support in one way or another, and I want to thank them all,” Michal said.

Two schools played huge role in his fundraising campaign. St Benedict’s school in Ongar has organised a non-uniform day and Michal was invited to give a talk to 377 children and showed

them some of the equipment he is going to need for the climb. In the same week, St Bridget’s School in Glasnevin had a cake sale day, and Michal visited the school a few days later to show the children a short movie about Kilimanjaro.

Now Michal has teamed up with Theresa Rocca, who has organised many fundraising events in the area, to host have a Look Who’s Cooking night at Anglers Rest-Wright’s Venue, Chapelizod, which was voted the best seafood bar and restaurant 2010 in Ireland, on April 28.

Entertainment

The price for the tickets is €60 and will include a three-course menu, with wine tasting, chosen and cooked by Michal and entertainment by Robert O’Connor, a local talented musician who will be performing songs from his new album.

There will be an opportunity to hear a speaker from Concern talking about the charity’s work in Tanzania, and the highlight of the night will be a raffle in which some amazing prizes can be won.

Tickets are available online at www.theanglersrest.ie or in Educogym Castleknock. All proceeds go to Concern.

Amongst the businesses that offered support is the fast-growing personal training studio, Educogym, Castleknock,where Michal and his colleagues have trained and advised hundreds of people on proper training and nutrition.

Michal says: “If I wasn’t working in Educogym, it would be extremely difficult for me to raise funds because it was my clients who gave the most support to my fundraising campaign.”

TRIATHLON Focus Ireland aims to raise over

Sign up and start training for top charity Q STAFF REPORTER

news@gazettegroup.com

CAROLINE Morahan and David McSavage got geared up last week to encourage new and experienced triathletes to sign up and start training for this year’s Focus Ireland Fundraising Triathlon.

The event aims to raise over €100,000 in vital funds to help the charity continue its work to combat and prevent homelessness in Ireland.

This year is the seventh annual Focus Ireland Triathlon which takes place on Dun Laoghaire Harbour on Dublin’s Southside on Sunday, July 31.

The event has raised over €490,000 since it was first held back in 2005. The €100,000 Focus Ireland hopes to raise through the event this year is urgently needed to fund its work supporting over 5,500

people through its homeless services each year.

Focus Ireland Celebrity Ambassador, Caroline Morahan, who has been supporting the charity for a number of years said: “Focus Ireland desperately needs to raise the vital funds through their Fundraising Triathlon to support the demand for their services across the country. There are many many people out there who have recently lost their job, have had their income reduced and have been struggling to pay their mortgage or rent.

“I have heard from Focus Ireland staff on the ground that many people at risk of losing their home are now coming to the charity for help, and Focus Ireland has been doing fantastic work to prevent many of these individuals and families from becoming homeless.

Caroline Morahan and David McSavage are encouraging new and experienced

Without funding, Focus Ireland would not be in a position to provide this much-needed support.

Taking part in this triathlon is a fun and rewarding way to reach out a hand to help.”

Latest estimates show in the region of 120,000 households on social housing waiting lists nationwide and, earlier this year, the charity carried out an Ipsos MRBI poll which found that nearly one in ten people believe they will become homeless.

Focus Ireland works directly with people who are at risk of becoming homeless to prevent them from losing their home. The charity also

works through its services to support people who are currently homeless to help them get back on their feet and in to a home - with support if required - so they don’t run the risk of becoming homeless again in the future.

C o m e d i a n , D av i d McSavage said: “I would urge ever yone, from beginner to experienced triathletes, to sign up and get training for this fun event. The event attracts many triathletes every year but I would also encourage newcomers to this type of event to give it a go. What a massive achievement it would be to complete this challenge for the first time, but also to play your part in raising these vital funds and making a difference.”

The Focus Ireland Fundraising Triathlon can be completed by anyone over the age of 18, from first-timers to experienced triathletes.

The event consists of a 750m, or 350m, swim in Dun Laoghaire Harbour, a 20km cycle on closed roads and a 5km run along the East Pier.

Teams of three can also

take part in the event with one team member completing the swim, one the cycle and one the run.

Focus Ireland needs 500 people to take part this year. Race entry fee is €80 for an individual and €240 for a team of three. Focus Ireland will provide participants with a fundraising pack and online fundraising tools to help them raise whatever they can beyond the registration fee.

How much each person decides to fundraise is up to them, but a suggested amount is €150 per individual and €300 per team. Focus Ireland said that they are grateful for all sponsorship, no matter how little or large, and their events team will be on hand to help with fundraising.

The Focus Ireland Fundraising Triathlon is sponsored by Dublin’s Q102 and supported

by Dun Laoghaire Harbour, DLR Council, DLR Sports Partnership, Dun Laoghaire Tourism and the Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire.

Registration is now open on line at www. focusireland.ie

21 April 2011 GAZETTE 13

€100,000 in vital funds to help continue its work

triathletes to sign up and start training for this year’s Focus Ireland Fundraising Triathlon which is a fun way to lending a helping hand for a great cause

THEATRE

Story of love and betrayal A CAST of great actors, including Dave Duffy from Fair City, star in Spanish poet Lorca’s Blood Wedding, showing in the Project Arts Centre at the moment.

Set in1928 in the Spanish province of Almeria, a young bride abandons her husband-to-be on the morning of her wedding to elope with her childhood sweetheart. With the town up in arms, the young lovers are hunted down with terrifying consequences.

Directed by Ronnie McCann, this is a true story set to an original score, with a cast of over 20 actors. Running up to April 30, Blood Wedding is a meaty story including love, betrayal, marriage, affairs, murder and plenty of action.

It is showing in the Projects Art Centre and tickets cost just €15.

Phone 01 8819613 for tickets.

14 GAZETTE 21 April 2011

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: THINK TWICE ABOUT PURCHASING A FURRY/FEATHERY EASTER GIFT

Novelty pets are a costly mistake HE Easter season brings about consumerism in abundance, with parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles, desperate to find that something different for little relatives.

Now, we all know that most kids probably already have way too much stuff, but the good weather somehow dic-

T Consider all of the facts, figures and care that goes with owning a pet

tates that we need more.

Ah sure, they can just discard the old stuff they got at Christmas and if that old stuff is a pet, ie a dog that gets too big, a rabbit that gets too messy, a chick that gets too noisy, then sure everyone knows there’s always the good old Dublin SPCA animal shelter where they can show up and discard their unwanted, unloved animal.Right?

Yes, you read it correctly, some people actually believe an animal is a disposable commodity that they can purchase and then dump at a shelter, when and where they darn well choose.

Wrong!

That is why, this week, I’m going to appeal to readers not to get live chicks and rabbits for their kiddies as Easter gifts.

If you wish to get that special little munchkin in your life an innovative gift that doesn’t involve chocolate, then great. But do not give an animal.

Yes, I know, you had great intentions when you purchased that furry/ feathery little cutie, but you didn’t take into consideration all the facts, figures and care that goes with it, did you?

Let’s face it, young and adorable though chicks and bunnies may be, they rapidly mature into adult pets and sometimes parents don’t realise the commitment required

to take care of them. I mean, we’re talking lifelong care and attention here.

These animals have very specific needs, and cannot be relegated to a little cardboard box or hutch at the bottom of the garden and left to their own devices.

Novelty pets

Did you know that last Easter the Dublin SPCA received a large number of calls concerning unwanted so-called “novelty pets”, because irresponsible parents/ aunts/grandparents etc., had given them to children, who quickly lost interest or were incapable of caring for their needs?

This forced me to wonder if some people, wrongly and inhumanely, regard these creatures as throwaway pets.

You see, as an animallover, I consider my dogs members of my family, and continuously struggle to comprehend why some people contribute to a culture that views them as disposable, easily replaceable items.

I would like to believe that the majority of pets are sheltered, loved, cherished and protected.

Unfortunately, the fact we rescued over 4,400 animals last year tells me that many pets are facing a harsh, cruel existence – confused because the humans they loved and adored have now aban-

doned them, and they don’t understand what it is they did wrong.

Yes, appallingly, some of these animals have even been released into the wild resulting in their deaths from starvation, exposure or predation by other animals.

If you are thinking of bringing a pet into your home this Easter, then please, I urge you to first do an assessment. Make sure your family has the means and the ability to take care of this animal.

Consider your lifestyle – ask yourself if you’re fully committed to taking on an animal that will live for up to 15 years, possibly more.

Talk to us at the Dublin SPCA and let us equip you with specific knowledge and information regarding such a pet, or speak to your local veterinarian.

Bleak

Please don’t get an animal if all you can offer him is a bleak future being treated like a piece of unwanted rubbish.

I mean, do you want to be the one who breaks the news to your little darling that her pet rabbit/chick has been callously discarded because you, the parent, made a bad decision?

PS! If you’re stuck for an Easter gift idea and want to support the work we do here at Ireland’s oldest and largest animal rescue shelter, then why not sponsor a pet in your child’s name from The Dublin SPCA. Now, there’s an innovative, humane and compassionate gift!

For more information, log onto www.dspca.ie or email me at miriam.kerins@dspca.ie

21 April 2011 GAZETTE 15

THEATRE Amusing take on city’s Northside/Southside Divide

A tale of 13,000 taxis, 3 scousers and a city divided Q LAURA WEBB news@gazettegroup.com

THE Northside-Southside divide is about to explode, with new comedy theatre getting ready to blow audiences away with its humorous take on Dublin’s divide in Blow up the Liffey Bridges, starring Fade Street’s Vogue Williams in her theatre debut.

The tale of 13,000 taxis, three scousers and a city divided comes from the producers of the smashhit, One Night in Istanbul.

The amusing take on Dublin’s Nor thsideSouthside divide stars Vogue Williams (Fade Street) in her first theatre role. She debuts along-

side Hollyoaks’ heartthrob, Kent Riley, and Emmet Kirwan, of RTE’s Sarah and Steve, in the show that sees a battle between rival taxi firms, one northside and one southside, declare war on each other.

Cup of tea

Speaking to the Gazette this week, Vogue says the hilarious show is not only reaching out to avid theatre-goers, but also those who may not think theatre is their cup of tea will really enjoy the show.

“When I saw the script, I thought it was so funny.

I read it again last night and there are so many mentions of people in the public eye over here,

it is actually hilarious.

That is what I love about it, people who are avid theatre-goers, will love the comedy.

“I know all my friends are going to love it and it is something that, if I wasn’t in it, I would definitely come and see it myself. It is reaching out to normal theatre goers, but also to others who might not think the theatre is for them; this is just for everyone.

“I play Molly Carol, a taxi cab owner. She is a little bit snobby. She is from the Southside, midthirties, a bit snobby and into the men as well. She wants to basically take over Dublin – and why not?” she laughed.

With the show being

Model and Actress Vogue Williams, Actor Emmet Kirwan and Actress Cora Fenton pictured on the Samuel Beckett Bridge over the Liffey Dublin

her first starring role in theatre, the 23-year-old is naturally “a little nervous” but “excited” at the same time about her new venture. A DJ, model, star of reality TV show, Fade Street, and now theatre actress, there seems to be no stopping the young starlet. But, for Vogue, there is no one job she

would like to stick to. “I love everything in their own right. Modelling has a shelf-life but, with acting and DJing, it doesn’t have a shelf life, but I couldn’t choose one if I had to. I am so lucky that I get to do them all.”

Proud to be a Northsider herself, Vogue said that being from Howth is

a little “northside/southside”.

Asked if she had any regrets starring in reality TV show Fade Street, Ireland’s answer to American hit docu-drama show, The Hills, she said: “I don’t regret it at all. It was just great and it led onto me doing this play, so I am delighted I did

it.”

Blow up the Liffey Bridges is showing at the Grand Canal Theatre, Docklands, Dublin 2 from May 16 until Saturday, May 21. Tickets are on-sale now through Ticketmaster.ie Log onto www.grandcanaltheatre.ie for further info.

16 GAZETTE 21 April 2011

SNAPSHOT The stories of the day GAZETTE COMMENT

Now get your Gazette online

T

HE GAZET TE has always been proud to bring the best in local news, sports, features and pictures to the community for over seven years.

Week after week, we strive to bring relevent, exciting coverage in a format that appeals to our readers every time they pick up their weekly copy from a local self-select point.

This week, the Gazette is excited to announce that our website, having gone through an amazing transformation, is now live and ready for our loyal readers to enjoy.

The new, and vastly improved, site offers our printed edition online, with full and complete access to a digital version of the paper every Thursday.

There is no charge for this service, no registration, no subscription - just the complete Gazette newspaper in digital form for your enjoyment.

Speaking about the launch of the site, the Gazette Group’s webmaster and sports editor, Rob Heigh, was delighted with the achievement.

“This is the next stage in the evolution of Gazette Group Newspapers. Having just celebrated our seventh anniversary, the time is right to enhance our online presence and give our readers a new experience of reading and interacting with the Gazette,” Rob said.

“All of the major stories from each

edition will be available to read online, and special digital editions of the paper will let people have the full Gazette experience through their browsers.

“Using Facebook and Twitter will give us a new way of communicating with suburban Dublin.

“We want to create a new and dynamic dialogue with our readers.

“We’re really looking forward to hearing directly about local issues and successes, and we will tell the rest of the community, and the city, about them, faster and better than any other local newspaper.

“I’d like to invite everyone to log on, bookmark the home page, and follow us into the future,” he said.

This really does mark a milestone for the Gazette Group of newspapers.

Following the recent release of the Audit Bureau of Circulation figures that have shown our performance tops any other local Dublin newspaper group, we can now say that our complete offering is now unsurpassed in the market.

Through our printed edition, our online paper, and the social media that we are embracing, we can reach our readers more directly than ever before.

We hope that you enjoy this development as much as we enjoy bringing it to you.

Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion.

Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

Top prize for hot idea Pictured at the annual Student Synergy Awards in ITT Dublin, are Pat McLaughlin (ITT Dublin President), James Tucker, Bernard Lawless and Michael Carmody of Ultra-Therm, and Loman O’Byrne (CEO South Dublin County Enterprise Board). Ultra-therm were the first prize winners of the competition that encourages full-time students to develop innovative business ideas for new products or services.

Ultra-therm is a system that regulates energy usage in domestic heating by using a series of sensors operated by a main control panel. Ultra-therm will minimize fuel bills, energy consumption and benefit the environment.

Voting for heroes in their hundreds A CAMPAIGN to give Unsung Heroes a chance to shine for the work they contribute to the community is getting a terrific response just weeks after it was launched.

Blanchardstown and Finglas Ford came up with a community initiative that not only recognises outstanding citizens for their work, but also gives donations to charities of their choice. The Dublin company is hoping to raise €150,000 for different community groups and charities in a campaign, with 40% of money raised going to the D15 St. Francis Hospice.

So far, eight candidates from across north Dublin have been entered into the campaign, including Dr. Danny Bell, founder of Friendly Call Service D15; The Leaders of the 104/144th Blanchardstown Scout Group; GAA star Paddy Christie; Ellen Gogavin, operational bed manager at Connolly Hospital and president of Dunboyne/K ilbride SVP; Mick Lynch, founder of Castleknock GAA club; Valerie Murphy, scout leader for East Finglas Scouts; Margaret O’Donnell of WFTA; and Fr. Dan Joe O’Mahony for his work with the St. Francis Hospice in Blan-

DIARY chardstown.

Hundreds of votes have been received, and the leader board at the start of the week scored Ellen Cogavin in first place with 29%; Margaret O’Donnell with 24% and the 104/144th Blanchardstown Scouts securing 22% so far.

However, the number of nominated candidates is continuing to rise and the organisers behind the campaign say heroes entered in the campaign could rise to about 40 as the closing date for entering an Unsung Hero is not until April 22, when the full list of Heroes entered will be announced.

Delighted with the response, managing director at Ford Finglas, Enda O’Connor, said: “There has been a very generous response from corporate companies regarding donations to the campaign. People can still enter their nominees and they are put up on the website as soon as we get the nominee.”

To cast your vote for your favourite unsung hero, or to enter a candidate, log onto www. unsunghero.ie. The top ten heroes go on to the final on May 20.

Barry’s more app-ealling BARRY’S Tea has recently launched an iPhone App that allows the user to send personalised postcards around the world.

Tea fans capture their golden moment using their iPhone camera, and Barry’s Tea does the rest – producing tailor-made postcards, complete with personalised notes, and posting it to friends and family.

Anyone in need of some cha can even find their nearest cup of Barry’s by using the Fancy A Cup Google Map feature. To download the app, go to the iTunes App store, Like Barry’s Tea on Facebook www.facebook.com/barrystea or www.twitter.com/barrysteatweets

Last call...

PETMANIA are reminding dogs and their owners that the National Dog Walk 2011 will take place on Easter Monday at 2pm, raising vital funds for the Carers Association of Ireland. Registration is just €5 for an individual (plus dog) or €10 for a family. To register, visit www.nationaldogwalk.ie or drop into any Petmania store or Carers Association office.

G A Z E T T E G R O U P N E W S P A P E R S

EASTER 2011

where2shop Your guide to

Easter ‘tweets’: Egg-citing and egg-straordinary gifts at M&S Page 28

the best local Easter shopping in Dublin

Doing it yourself:

There’s a host of handy Style: It’s a fashion fest growing help and DIY for all in Blanchardstown demos with B&Q Page 22

Page 20

18 GAZETTE 21 April 2011

where2shop l BI RTH DAY l

l THIS SE ASON’S ST YLE STATEMENTS l

From retro chic to the classic cuts S

Dundrum Town Centre

Over 100 million customers flock to Town Centre DUNDRUM Town Centre opened its doors six years ago and since then, over 100 million customers have visited the Centre, and over 35 national and international awards have been won by Ireland’s biggest shopping centre.

In the past 12 months the Centre has seen 12 new openings, including Inglot, Pink, Fast-Fix, Paddy Power, Bella Baby, The Star Newspaper, Early Learning Centre, Cortina’s Mexican Restaurant, Teddy’s Ice Cream and Grill, China Buffet King, Out of the Blue Interiors and The Port House. Wagamama – the renowned noodle chain, a firm favourite with Leinster rugby players, opens its doors for business in the coming weeks and one of the world’s best-known labels will soon be announced as a Dundrum Town Centre tenant.

Last year over €100,000 worth of prizes were given to Dundrum Town Centre customers and 2011 will be

no different. Only last week one lucky couple from Bray, Co Wicklow, won a €10,000 wedding at Brook Lodge & Wellness Spa at the Dundrum Town Centre Wedding Experience.

With over 120 shops and 38 restaurants, 3,400 parking spaces, 12 cinemas, a theatre and creche, Dundrum Town Centre continues to lead the way in retail excellence. Don Nugent, Dundrum Town Centre Director, said: “The key success at Dundrum Town Centre over the past six years lies, for me, in the stores’ and restaurants’ commitment to our customers ensuring that each and every time that they visit they enjoy the very best shopping and leisure experience.”

To ensure that these high standards are maintained the Centre hosts a Retailer and Restaurant of the Year awards. Last month, Hugo Boss and Siam Thai were announced the two winners for 2010.

DESIGNED, COMPILED PRODUCED AND PUBLISHED BY GAZETTE GROUP NEWSPAPERS FOR EDITORIAL CONTACT: T: 01 60 10 240 E: NEWS@GAZETTEGROUP.COM FOR SALES ENQUIRIES CONTACT: T: 01 60 10 240 E: SALES@GAZETTEGROUP.COM PUBLISHED BY GAZETTE GROUP NEWSPAPERS BLOCK 3A, MILLBANK BUSINESS PARK, LOWER ROAD, LUCAN, CO DUBLIN PRINTED IN IRELAND. ALL CONTENT GAZETTE GROUP NEWSPAPERS. NO PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE REPRODUCED OR TRANSMITTED IN ANY FORM OR BY ANY MEANS, ELECTRONIC OR MECHANICAL, INCLUDING PHOTOCOPYING, RECORDING OR ANY INFORMATION RETRIEVAL SYSTEM, WITHOUT THE PRIOR PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER IN WRITING.

©

UMMER’S back and it’s time for a change, so pack away those khaki neutrals and embrace this season’s latest fashion trends at your local Heatons Store. The great thing about summer fashion is the chance to enjoy bright colours and prints – embrace them and bring them into your wardrobe to rejuvenate and update your current favourite looks.

Heatons’ summer 2011 collection provides versatile women’s fashions, catering for every body shape and size during the 2011 summer season.

Comfortable cottons, printed jerseys and chic chiffons run throughout this must-have, quality, and importantly affordable range.

This season, besides bright colours and patterns there are also great long and free-flowing lines that pay homage to the best silhouettes of the 70s.

Jump suit FAR from being a one-season wonder the jumpsuit is fast on it’s way to becoming a wardrobe classic. It can look smart or relaxed and, this season at Heatons, it comes in various seventies-esque incarnations – one-shouldered, v-necked and wide-legged.

The leopard jumpsuit (€37.50) from Heatons will score extra 70s’ fashion points. The v-neck jumpsuit is a perfect addition to any summer capsule wardrobe and a fashion must at only €29.50!

A sea of blue IT’S the easiest bright to pull off and with shades of intense cerulean, sky, teal and royal blue, it’s the colour making the biggest splash at Heatons this season; add a splash of red to create a fresh nautical look.

The colour blue still features heavily this season so capitalise on this with Heatons stripe mock tee (€18), teamed with leggings and sling back wedge (€10) for a relaxed and comfortable ensemble. ‘Ship Ahoy’ - use the season’s must-have colour to create a stylish nautical look with Heatons’ stripe ruffle tee (€16) and floral square toe sandals (€14) or stripe jersey cardigan (€14), scoop neck vest (£7/€8), and asymmetric skirt (€16).

Top it off with Heatons’ polka dot hat for as little as €6.

Nude tones NUDES and flesh tones present an elegant alternative to this season’s rainbow brights and Heatons’ beautiful beaded empire dress (€30) is just perfect to give you a summer glow. Whether you want D.I.S.C.O a la 70s glamour with maxi dresses and sexy jumpsuits or to take a more laid back hippie chick approach with your summer wardrobe Heatons has everything you need to create your desired look. To buy their latest collection, visit your local Heatons’ store or shop online at heatonsstores.com

21 April 2011 GAZETTE 19

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where2shop StyleFLASH Love your fashion this Bank Holiday IF YOU love fashion, and you love shopping, then you’ll love Blanchardstown Centre’s three-day Fashion Event this May Bank Holiday weekend!

Professionally staged catwalk shows, produced

by Assets Model Agency and featuring their top models ,Vogue Williams, Georga Salpa and Sarah Morrissey, will take place on Saturday, Sunday and Bank Holiday Monday at 1pm, 2pm, 3pm and 4pm.

Participating stores include a/wear, BT2, Debenhams, Dunnes Stores, FCUK, H & M, M&S, Miss Selfridge, Monsoon, Oasis, Pamela a Scott, Penneys, Republic, Vera Moda, Wallis, Warehouse, Zara and MANY more!

Popular kidswear brand Name It (pictured) will showcase the best in fashionable childrens wear on Saturday, along with Pumpkin Patch and Mothercare. Menswear will also feature, thanks k to t Bertoni, B t i Bests B t Menswear, Burton, Counter Propaganda, Diesel, Diffneys, Tom Tailor and Jack & Jones.

Fall in love with this season's fashion and beauty looks this May Bank Holiday weekend.

P.S. great spot prizes to be won!

Centre news: Rebrand and Extend: The Atlantic Homecare store in Blanchardstown Retail Park will rebrand to Woodies and expand to their full format store with a major extension, bringing the retail area to 51,500 square feet with an additional 11,000 square feet given to a garden centre.

Champagne and Fine Wines: Independent

drinks retailer O’Briens will open its latest off licence on Blanchardstown Centre’s Green Mall in the coming weeks. The award-winning retailer will be a welcome addition with their range of fine wines and excellent service.

New Public Facilities: Recently the Centre has undertaken a total refurbishment of its public toilets, with a major emphasis on the enhancement of the parenting facilities, which is good news for the Mums and Dads that visit with their little tots. The new facilities underpins managements’ commitment to ensuring that customers enjoy the very best facilities on their visit to Blanchardstown Centre.

Digital Centre Guides

Blanchardstown Centre has now introduced the most up-to-date Digital Signage available to help guide customers to the many stores and facilities in the Centre.

ICE Tech, now part of the MJ Flood Group, were contracted to customise the software and installed the large format interactive touch screen digital signage systems in the Blanchardstown Centre.

l C O LO UR F UL AND C O ST- E F F ECT IVE AT NAME IT BL ANCHARD STOWN l

Keeping the kids in comfy clobber AT A time when there is less money being spent right across the country, retailers are having to tune themselves in more keenly to the needs of their customers.

Va l u e - f o r- m o n e y , product quality and service are all much bigger parts of sales strategies than they were when the country was awash with money.

For Susan O’Connor and John Sherwood, who run the children’s clothing store Name It in the Blanchardstown Centre, that is something of which they are extremely aware.

“The days of getting the line in and waiting for the customers to come in through the door is gone,” says Susan.

“People are more choosy about what they spend their money on.

“All we do all day long is look for value for our customers. We’re always looking to get the best value out there for our customers. We are always looking for quality products.

“There is a customer

costs are lower,” says Susan, while Blanchardstown native John feels that the business has been able to learn from others.

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

‘All we do is look for value for our customers.

We’re always looking to get the best value out there, we are always looking for quality products’

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

Susan O’Connor and John Sherwood of Name It in the Blanchardstown Centre

base out there for quality products. Our products are branded, good quality and offer value for money.

“Rather than an OK product at a good price,

people want a super product for a great price.

“That’s allowed us to build a very loyal customer base in Blanchardstown.”

Being a recession-era start-up can help in some respects, with the pitfalls of previous businesses more clearly signposted.

“It’s definitely an advantage in that our

“We knew the pitfalls and knew the mistakes that other shops had made. Some shops fell asleep at the wheel,” says John.

Offering fantastic branded products, great value and situated in what John calls “the Premier League of shopping centres”, there is no sign of Name It doing the same.

Making style a bit more personal SHOPPING with your very own personal stylist is high on most women’s love-to-do list, and now - thanks to the new Personal Stylist at Blanchardstown Centre service – you can do it!

The service offers far more than just personal shopping, it allows customers to learn about the critical guidelines that are tailored to their personal body shape and colouring. There comes a time when men and women alike are fed up of costly style errors and realise that, in order to minimise these errors and maximise their wardrobe, they should consult a professional personal

stylist for advice.

According to Shirley Lane, founder of Personal Stylist at Blanhcardstown Centre: “Personal Stylist at Blanchardstown Centre makes it incredibly easy to shop for either a key piece or a full wardrobe from all of the best stores at the centre, all at one time.”

Shirley, the stylist behind Ireland’s original styling company, www.personalstylist.ie, went on to say: “Investing in your style will instill confidence when shopping alone and it will allow you the privilege of knowing what suits and what to avoid! We are trying to offer the

most seamless shopping experience for our clients, where they learn to embrace their body shape and dress it accordingly while feeling the god/ goddess that they are.

“Each client that I meet has a different lifestyle, style preference and budget and with the perfect mixture of high street and department stores, I am showing them exactly how to dress and shop successfully.”

For more information, ccall 085 -1014444 or email bc@personalstylist.ie

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Yes – it’s time to get the trainers out B&Q’s Grow Your Own offerings will make you a green-fingered master in the garden

B&Q launch DIY demos to make most of weekend LAST WEEKEND, all nine B&Q stores nationwide began a series of Project Demos focusing on DIY jobs, which can be completed in a weekend as part of B&Q’s ‘Doing it Together’ commitment to encouraging the DIY shy to overcome their fears and make DIY easier.

F o l l ow i n g r e c e n t research by B&Q, which shows 53% of us are scared of DIY and fourout-of-10 of us even go so far as to say we hate DIY, the easy-to-follow onehour demos will focus on making DIY easier and less daunting, by showing people the basic skills needed and the best tools to get the job done.

A team of B&Q experts showed customers exactly how to complete the project, as well as passing on helpful hints and tips to get the best result.

The first session, How to Lay Laminate Flooring, was launched at B&Q on April 16. Further weekend Project Demos will follow, including How to Make a Hanging Basket, Growing your Own and Building a Deck or Walkway, and will take place throughout the Easter

period up until Sunday, May 8.

To support the instore demos and to help customers even further, B&Q will also be displaying Project ‘Top Tips’ during the Easter bank holidays, focusing on DIY jobs which can be completed in just half an hour, such as hanging a picture, or those you can do in half a day, such as putting up a fence.

Katherine Paterson, B&Q’s marketing director says: “We’re passionate about DIY and this Easter we want to make it easier for our customers to have a go themselves. Whether you have a whole weekend or just half an hour, there are so many different jobs you can do and we look forward to welcoming customers into our store and getting the nation DIYing again!”

Project Demos taking place at B&Q: • Saturday and Sunday April 23 - 24: How to Make a Hanging Basket.

• Saturday and Sunday April 30 - May 1: Grow Your Own. Saturday and Sunday May 7 - 8: Build a Basic Deck or Walkway

THE Lifestyle Sports adidas Trainer Scrappage Scheme is back and going green this year in 64 Lifestyle Sports stores throughout Ireland.

From now until the May 8, the scheme will allow people to trade in their old trainers in any Lifestyle Sports store and get 25% off a new pair of adidas Response or Supernova trainers.

Irish Rugby captain and adidas ambassador, Brian O’Driscoll, dropped into Lifestyle Sports in Dundrum Town Centre recently and showed his support for the scheme by throwing an old pair of adidas Supernova Glides into the trainer scrappage bin.

Ireland produces over 40,000 tonnes of rubber waste a year that goes directly to landfills. By recycling rubber into other useful products, Lifestyle Sports and adidas are helping eliminate the harmful effects on

Irish Rugby captain and adidas ambassador, Brian O’Driscoll

humans and the environment.

Lifestyle Sports and adidas have a target this year to collect 18,000 trainers; this will equate to 6.3 tonnes of rubber that would otherwise end up in a landfill and

directly contribute to CO2 emissions.

Brian O’ Driscoll said: “This Lifestyle Sports adidas scheme is such a great idea, as most of us have trainers lying around that we will never wear again. By being part

Cooking: Let Russell Hobbs lure you back to the kitchen in style RUSSELL HOBBS is a household name throughout Ireland’s kitchens and now with their new Allure range, dining-in has become that bit more attractive. The Allure range of food preparation appliances have a sophisticated, simple, straight forward design that make them eye-catching in any kitchen. Dine and dazzle your guests this summer with the Allure range from Russell Hobbs.

The Allure Black Accents Kettle (€59.99) is stylish and contemporary with brushed stainless and soft black accents, the Allure Kettle features an easy-open, push-button lid positioned on handle, LED power on indicator, dual water gauge, 1.7-litre capacity, and 3kW rapidboil concealed element. The Allure Black Accents Toaster (€54.99) features variable browning, mid-cycle cancel, and frozen setting Russell Hobbs has forged a reputation for timeless, stylish kitchen appliances and the range is available from all good electrical retailers throughout Ireland. For stockist information call 01 429 5140.

of this scheme, you can really make a difference to the environment and help create Ireland’s first environmentally green astro-turf pitch, an initiative never been done before in Ireland.”

Some of Ireland’s

top sporting heroes are lending their support to the initiative; adidas athletes O’Driscoll, Ronan O’Gara and Paul O’Connell.

They will appear at three separate Lifestyle Sports stores around the country to encourage the public to donate their used trainers to the scheme.

As part of the scheme, customers will be encouraged to get their gait analysed, so they can find out what type of trainer most suits their running style. Free gait analysis is available in all 64 Lifestyle Sports stores.

Brian availed of the free gait analysis and had his foot scanned in Lifestyle Sports. It reaffirmed that he is a neutral runner.

For dates and times of player appearances, please check www.lifestylesports.com. These will be announced a week in advance.

21 April 2011 GAZETTE 23

Hop to it!

Sweet Easter treats and gifts from M&S CELEBRATE Easter with some of

the sweetest treats from Marks & Spencer. Easter is a great time to spoil the ones you love. With everything from cakes and chocolates, to the brightest in spring fashions, M&S is the one-stop-shop for every Easter Bunny this Easter time.

There are Easter eggs galore at M&S this Easter, with eggs to suit the whole family. The new FullyLoaded Eggs are the height of luxury and, with three decadent flavours to choose from, they are the perfect indulgence for the chocoholic family. They come loaded with toffee and white chocolate buttons, cranberries and pecan nuts or strawberries and dark chocolate buttons.

24 GAZETTE 21 April 2011

where2shop Getting spring into swing with top deals THERE are so many things happening at this time of year, Communions and Confirmations are in full swing, and it’s the first time for a lot of us in venturing out to our gardens after the long winter.

The Retail Park Liffey Valley has all the names and products that you need during this busy period.

There are a total of 10 top tenants there, including Atlantic Homecare, Argos, Currys, JJB Sports, Carpet Right and Harry Corry.

Argos have lovely sterling silver and gold pendants for both Communions and Confirmations, with prices starting from only €24.89.

To record the special

moment, Argos, Currys or PC World stock a range of top-quality cameras, including Canon, Casio and Sony.

Atlantic Homecare have a special Easter treat; buy the Havana 5-piece Gateleg Hardwood Patio Set, which includes a 1.2m Gateleg Folding Table and four multi-position charis (FSC certified Timber) and an Omaha twoburner gas BBQ for only €399.99, a saving a €70 The Retail Park is located behind Liffey Valley Shopping Centre. For contact details for each store, and for more special offers, log onto www. theretailpark.ie or join us on Facebook.

l LIF F E Y VALLE Y SH O PPING C E NT R E l

Month of fashionable fun HOME to over 90 top stores, including Ireland’s largest Marks and Spencer, Liffey Valley Shopping Centre offers the full-day-out experience to keep all the family happy – fashion, film and food!

With free parking, easy access and a comfortable relaxed atmosphere, it all adds up to an enjoyable, stress-free day for all the family.

This April, Liffey Valley is offering even more to shoppers with a month of fashionable fun, which will include catwalk shows, live mannequins and the opportunity to find your perfect pair of jeans with the help of their dedicated Jean Genius stylists.

Take the opportunity to find your perfect pair of jeans with the help of dedicated Jean Genius stylists

For anyone looking to refresh their SpringSummer wardrobe, the centre’s catwalk shows on Saturday, April 23

and May 7 will highlight the latest styles and trends available from the centre’s retailers, including New Look, Republic,

Topshop, Oasis and many more.

The men folk aren’t forgotten either, with a chance for them to show-

case a new look, courtesy of Jack & Jones, Addiction Menswear, Topman, Burtons, Counter Propaganda, and more.

A good pair of jeans can solve a myriad of wardrobe woes.

Dress them up or keep it casual, skinny fit or bootleg, stone wash or indigo – the options are endless.

If you want to know the perfect style, fit and colour for your body shape make an appointment with a style team to have your very own Jean Genius guide you to denim heaven.

For more information, see www.liffeyvalley.ie or find the centre on Facebook at www.facebook. com/liffeyvalley.

21 April 2011 GAZETTE 25

GazetteGAMING GAMING

The Kinect sensor can bring an energetic twist to the traaditional console experience, as players use their bodies to control the action

So, can Kinect get the kids through Easter?

Q CORMAC CURTIS

SO FAR, most of the country has been blessed with good weather throughout the Easter mid-term break.

Letting the kids run riot in the garden is a great deal easier than having them mope around the house, telling parents how bored they are.

The question is, will this weather keep up for another week? Or will parents across the capital spend their time trying to entertain the youngsters.

One option for indoor entertainment this Easter is Microsoft’s Xbox Kinect system.

There has been a lot of talk about this gadget since it hit the market last year, and, as an addition to the Xbox console, it can prove to be seriously fun piece of kit.

So, what is Kinect?

Kinect is a small, black box with a few little cameras in it that recognises your hands and feet so you can play a variety of specialised Xbox games by using your body instead of the traditional controller.

It sounds like fun, and it is.

I spent the weekend trialling the Kinect with my family and one of my nephews to answer one big question – can it keep

Kinectimals is a kids’ favourite - once the opening scenes finish

the kids entertained?

The short answer is, yes.

Kinect for Xbox 360 is fun that’s good for you! Kinect makes it possible to play in a whole new way by identifying the player’s movement and body position to create a truly immersive entertainment experience.

Every Kinect game will get players off the couch and moving, from fitness-specific titles like Your Shape: Fitness Evolved, Dance Central, or family fun games like Kinectimals, so you can enjoy guilt-free Easter Eggs.

What needs to be considered carefully is what games the kids will enjoy.

From the outset, there wasn’t a doubt in my mind that both my daughters (four and five years of age) would fall in love with Kinectimals.

Kinectimals allows the player

to pick from a selection of cubs – chosing from a tiger, panther, lion, jaguar etc. – and, once a name has been chosen, and the cub is adopted, a host of games and activities are laid on for the player.

This is, without a doubt, one of the cutest-looking titles I have ever seen, but it has some serious drawbacks for young players.

There is a very long introductory sequence and set-up process that you can’t skip through – and when three young kids are playing, they all want to pick their own cub – believe me, I tried to convince them to share, but they were having none of it.

The up-side is the kids all loved the game when it finally got going.

Surprisingly, the Kinect Sports titles turned out to be a much bigger hit than I was expecting. It

didn’t require very much fiddling to get going, and soon my kids were boxing like world champions – the game even shows a video of the player during their bout afterwards!

There is an awful lot of positives about a console that gets the kids off the couch, and these titles certainly achieve all that.

Any kids older than about seven should have no problem playing by themselves, but the little ones need that bit of supervision – especially when it comes to standing back from the screen when cute panthers and tigers are playing!

According to Kieran Penwill, Ireland country manager for Microsoft’s Retail Services & Marketing Division: “This Easter, we are encouraging families to keep active. Through the magic of Kinect for Xbox 360, gaming and entertainment is as easy as stepping in front of your TV. No matter what your age, or where you’re from, Kinect will get you off the couch and moving; it’s incredibly easy to use, and it fits in with a healthy family lifestyle!”

Kinect for Xbox 360 retails at €149.99 and Kinect titles retail from €49.99. Members of the public can share the fun on the Xbox 360 Facebook page at www.facebook.com/xboxie

May D4-ce be with you: Star Wars to invade Ballsbridge this week OK, so it’s not exactly gaming, but it’s safe to say that there are plenty of gamers out there who appreciate a good Star Wars exhibition.

So, for those people, we say “may the force be with you” this bank holiday weekend, as Invasion Dublin begins.

Take photos with Darth Vader, R2-D2, the menacing Emperor and Darth Maul.

Storm Troopers will also be there to maintain order, so be on the lookout! The Invasion Dublin experience runs from 10am to 6pm this Saturday, Sunday and Monday at the RDS. This family-friendly event will feature the world exclusive public unveiling of the Republic Clone Fighter Tank, original movie actors, costumed characters, life-size craft, props and sets replicated by Emerald Garrison.

For more information visit www.invasion.ie

26 GAZETTE 21 April 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs SAAB SHUTS PRODUCTION AGAIN:

PRODUCTION lines at Swedish car company Saab shut down again last week for the fourth time in two weeks.

The struggling car company stopped production until it can stabilise its financial situation.

Saab sales fell to about 32,000 units worldwide last year.

This compares with sales of up to 130,000 units when under GM control. General Motors (GM) sold Saab to the to Dutch s p o r t s c a r m a ke r Spyker in 2010 after GM filed for bankruptcy in the US. The survival of the Swedish company was in doubt, until a lastminute deal by Spyker which was underwritten by $500 million in loans granted by the European Investment Bank was further guaranteed by the Swedish government.

The new Peugeot 508 is spacious and has a big-car feel to it, even when powered by a modest 1.6 litre turbo-diesel engine

A hot date with the 508 MICHAEL MORONEY took the opportunity to have a sneak early drive of

the Peugeot 508 in advance of its official arrival and here is his report DROVE the new Peugeot 508 for a short first drive on Irish roads recently, in advance of getting a longer run after its launch in a few week’s time.

Relative to the older 407 model, this car design is a complete change in terms of style and features. I was never a fan of the styling of the older model, and this new 508 is, thankfully, a radical change for the good.

Stand in front, and you’ll firstly realize that it’s a big car. I drove two models, the small engine 1.6-litre unit and the 2.0litre model, both of which use turbo-diesel power.

The first impressions are that both the car and its engine are a complete change from the past.

I

SPECS: PEUGEOT 508 1.6 TDI Top speed: 190 km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 11.3 secs Economy: 60mpg CO2 emissions: 124g/km Road Tax Band: B (€156) Scrappage Eligible: Yes Towing rating: 1,475kg Entry Price: €24,850

This 1.6-litre engine is a new unit, developing 112bhp of engine power and 243Nm of torque.

That performance is on par with the competition, some of which have bigger engines.

This new 508 is a big car. Despite its size, it weighs in modestly at 1,552kg in kerb weight terms. That’s marginally

heavier than the 407 car that it replaces and the bigger feel is emphasized by the longer wheelbase, which gives more comfort on the road.

Peugeot has tuned this modest-size engine to meet the economy needs of this big car. The engine is smooth in operation and I found little sign of power shortage over some typical road conditions.

The rated fuel economy figures show only marginal change from the older model. The engine differences are modest in a power sense; the engine power gets a marginal lift to 112bhp compared with 110bhp for the older one.

There was no sense of the car being under powered when I drove it.

The economy figures

hold good, even when you mix a lower-power engine with a bigger car, that’s an achievement in itself. The economy rating at 21.3 km/litre (60mpg) is good relative to the competition. It is almost comparable with the BMW 318d in that sense, and its economy figure is now up with the best.

This level of economy always converts into lower CO2 ratings and lower annual road tax costs.

For the new entry-level Peugeot 508, that figure is now 124g/km, bringing the big car in Band B and giving an annual road tax cost of just €156.

The other plus of the new 508 for rural drivers is that Peugeot has boosted the towing rat-

ing with the new model.

It comes with a towing rating of 1,475kg, up from 1,300kg with a braked trailer in the older 407 model.

T h a t ’s a we l c o m e boost for rural drivers who are in the trailerpulling majority. It comes at a time when many other car manufacturers are lowering their towing rate figures, but is still at the lower end of the scale.

This new Peugeot has an impressive safety rating, even if not yet tested in the Euro NCAP programme.

It should score well with ESP, ASR-traction control, dynamic stability control among its features. The inclusion of driver, front passenger and

side airbags as well as rear curtain airbags will help it achieve a high rating. The entry price is €24,850 for the 1.6-litre HDi version that’s expected to be popular. This is the basic Access version of the car; there is also an Active and Allure specification model.

Unfortunately for Peugeot, the car is coming towards the end of the current scrappage offer, and it is a car that is very much scrappage appropriate in terms of value and features.

The question is, is it worth waiting for? I think that it is because you are getting so much more car for your money and a bigger car, with better features and economy for the long run.

Driving costs rise this year – but its not all bad news DRIVING has, in the past year, become significantly more expensive. But don’t put it all down to the increase in petrol and diesel prices.

Diesel prices are at about €1.45 per litre at the pumps, with petrol close to €1.50 per litre. Petrol prices are at an all-time high, while diesel prices have returned to the high levels of 2008, according to AA Ireland figures. Our fuel prices, despite the significant rises, are still cheaper than the UK, Germany, Italy and France.

Judging by AA Ireland’s more recent car-running costs data, which were based on petrol costing €1.33 per litre, you can expect that following the current 12% increase in fuel costs, the average cost of running a Band B petrol car is in excess of €10,000 per year.

Tyre prices are also on the increase.

Tyre costs account for about 8% of total running costs. The latest AA Ireland figures show that tyre costs amounted to 1.53 cent per kilometer out of a total run-

ning cost of 19 cent a kilometer based.

The increase in petrol prices coinciding with the increased tyre prices means that the balance remains virtually the same.

Depreciation remains the largest part of the ownership costs. The AA Ireland figures show that depreciation accounts for about 25% of the overall running costs and is rated at an annual figure of 12% of the value of the car when new.

So for a €15,000 car, you can allow for a depreciation figure of about €1,800 per

annum based on driving 16,000 km per year.

The good news is that servicing costs have dropped since this time last year.

And, for some new car buyers, there are now free three-year service options with the new cars being sold.

And as well as the cost of a service dropping more and more, cars can run longer between service intervals, so running costs on that front should fall a little.

21 April 2011 GAZETTE 27

28 GAZETTE 21 April 2011

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY CELBRIDGE: RANGE OF THREE- AND FOUR-BED HOUSES AVAILABLE

Hazelwood etching memorable homes Interior and exterior views at Adamstown

ADAMSTOWN: FRESH APARTMENTS ADDED

New show houses on view at Adamstown LAST weekend saw the launch of brand new show units at Castlethorn’s popular development at Adamstown Square in Lucan, with new two-bedroom apartments coming onstream for €135,000.

The apartments boast an extremely high level of specification and are located close to the main attractions of Adamstown, including local shops, schools and train station.

For those looking for a larger home, there are new large three-bed duplex units, located on the second and third floors, with over 1,000 sq ft of accommodation, as well as a spacious balcony at €185,000. In addition, there are a small number of three- and fourbed houses available from €245,000 and €275,000 respectively.

All homes come with the renowned standard of quality and finish synonymous with the Castlethorn brand.

All master bedrooms are very generous in size and are fitted with ensuites. In addition, purchasers will benefit from modern fitted kitchens complete with oven/hob, fridge freezer, dishwasher and washer/dryer. All homes are designed to comply with Sustainable Energy Ireland’s House of Tomorrow programme in terms of their energy efficient ratios and the BER (Building Energy Rating) rating of each home is very high.

The Adamstown marketing suite and show-units are open everyday, weekends from 3 to 5pm and on weekdays from 10 to 5pm.

For more information, contact Leahys on 6011800.

MAPLEWOOD Developments held the launch of a new threebed showhouse at Hazelwood, Celbridge last weekend.

Three-bedroom houses at the development, which extend to 112 sq m, are on sale from €237,500, while fourbedroom houses, extending to 144 sq m, are selling from €255,000.

Spacious

The three-bedroom houses and the fourbedroom houses are extremely spacious, all have their own driveways, front and rear gardens, and are specifically designed to overlook the parkland area within the scheme.

This next phase of Maplewood will be finished to the most upto-date building and

insulation regulations, each house will have a minimum of BER rating of a B1 and each house will have energy saving solar panels as standard, together with a host of other features.

Amenities This attractive development is just a 10-minute walk to the newly renovated and extended Hazelhatch train station, that has a regular service to Dublin city thereby providing that perfect blend of contemporary urban living with the feel of a countryside lifestyle.

As with all Maplewood developments, there is meticulous attention to detail in all aspects of the design, planning and building which contributes to making Hazelwood another of their

An array of three-and four-bedroom houses are available

signature developments.

As always there is a wide choice of interior finishes to choose from.

S h ow h o u s e s a r e available for viewing on Saturdays and Sundays from 3 to 5pm, and you can find out more information at www.hazelwood-celbridge.com or www.coonan.com.

One of the living room designs at Hazelwood

RATHCOOLE: SEMI-DETACHED LIVING IN VILLAGE SETTING

Peyton is still the place to be THE Peyton development in Rathcoole village is presenting to the market a new set of large three- and four-bedroom semi-detached houses, available from only €275,000.

There are a range of house layouts and sizes from 128 to 190 sq m, suitable for first-time buyers, trading up or down and large family homes.

Constructed by Blackchurch Homes, these exclusive houses have a top-quality finish at a very affordable price in a convenient village location.

All of the houses have large bedrooms, spacious living rooms, generous bathrooms and en-suites,

The fine interior design at Peyton is reflected across the range of house types

decently sized gardens, and private driveways for two cars.

Local amenities on their doorstep include Rathcoole Park, and there are primary and secondary schools within

walking distance.

Some of the excellent Peyton house features include B1 energy ratings, no management fees, a choice of Nolan fitted kitchens with granite worktops, and central

vacuum systems. There are 9ft ceilings in living areas and kitchen appliances are included if the sale closes on time.

Viewing is recommended and the show houses are open on Sat-

urdays and Sundays from 2.30 to 5pm.

For further details, contact Glenn Burrell in Finnegan Menton, Tel (01) 614 7900 or Redmond Auctioneers Tel (01) 4589833.

21 April 2011 GAZETTE 29

30 GAZETTE 21 April 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL CLOSE TO HOME: DISCOVERING SOME WELL-KNOW, AND SOME NOT-SO-WELL-KNOWN GEMS Q MIMI MURRAY

S

OMETIMES it is nice to get out of town and sojourn by the sea or in the lush green countryside, but the arduous four- or fivehour journey to get there can often spoil the

mood.

That’s what made our recent whistle-stop tour of two great locations close to Dublin city so nice.

Both King Sitric guesthouse in Howth, and Tankardstown House in Slane were exceptional. Both with very different offerings, but sharing one important quality – they provided the personal touch.

We had often passed the famous King Sitric restaurant, in the gorgeous fishing village of Howth, on our way for a hike around the head, but never had the pleasure of dining there.

Nor did we realise that staying there was an option, but Joan and Aidan McManus now provide very good accommodation with breathtaking views of the sea.

Our room was very comfortable and quiet, apart from the morning seagulls, but that is to be expected in a seaside town.

Joan and Aidan have run the place for 40 years.

Joan runs around, chatting to all her regular guests who amble down from the hill on a weekend night.

It’s one of those places that hasn’t changed a great deal over the years, which only adds to its charm.

Many of the staff are there since they opened their doors.

Fish dishes are classics, and very well cooked. The Lobster Lawyer is delicious and the Black Sole Meuniere was cooked to perfection. Meringue Sitric has been on the menu since day one and had to be sampled, it was very tasty indeed.

The next morning, a hearty breakfast was just what the doctor ordered, before a brisk walk around Howth Head.

We bid King Sitric adieu, and headed to Tankardstown House. This really is a hidden gem, but we were still surprised more people hadn’t heard of it.

On arrival, we were shown around the estate and were told to relax wherever we pleased. Plush furnishings and deep couches were crying out to us, but King Sitric, top and above, is a haven in the city we decided to make use of the sundrenched terrace while we waited for togs. Located inside a walled garden, exceptional starter of beef carpaccio our room. Not the fault of the staff, there was plenty of privacy and the was decorated with fresh sprigs that but ours, as we arrived well before lovely staff offered us extra towels and awakened our taste buds. The helpful waiter found out that it was shiso, robes to dry off with. check-in time.

We sat outside enjoying a quick a Japanese herb grown in the walled It was worth the wait, as our accommodation was spacious, bright drink from the honour bar (yes, you garden.

Our mains of lamb and suckling pig and extremely comfortable, with a serve yourself and keep a tab) before looked exciting on the plate and were flat-screen television which seemed dressing for dinner.

The recently-built Brabazon res- fresh and delightfully cooked. slightly out of sync with the old-world A flourishing patio area, dotted charm of the bedroom, but was, none taurant is already doing a booming trade. A lot of the produce comes with heaters, was the perfect place the less, welcomed.

A dip in the hot tub was called for, directly from a walled vegetable gar- for a pre- or post-dinner drink.

The cocktails are very good, and and we were thankful we brought our den located on the estate, and an

Mimi’s Blue Book break

An Easter of pure imagination awaits the family in Wexford THE Carlton Millrace in Wexford will be transformed into a chocolate wonderland this Easter, with every child who is staying receiving a much sought-after Carlton Chocolate Bar. Upon carefully peeling back the wrapper, a select number of these chocolate bars will have a precious Carlton Golden Ticket.

The Golden Ticket holders will then go on

FastTravel an egg hunt in search of the Chocolate Wonderland, which will be full of chocolate fountains, a chocolate factory and chocolate as far as the eye can see.

One lucky child will get a golden egg, which will earn the winners a summer holiday in the Carlton Millrace.

The Hatch a Plan this Easter Package is for a family of four sharing, three nights B&B, ane

The stunning surroundings of Tankardstown House in Slane, top, above and left make it a must-visit spot

our friendly bar girl said they always leave it to one particular guy to mix the drinks - he knows his stuff apparently. Indeed he did, and the tangy mojitos had just the right mix of mint and rum.

After a very comfortable sleep, we headed for breakfast. The previous day, when we spied hens running around a coup, we were informed we would be dining on the freshest eggs for breakfast, and they were delicious.

evening meal for the adults and free Kids Club. Children are on B&B basis.

Fine spring weather sees the return of festival fever THE Marble City’s annual May Bank Holiday Mardi Gras, the Smithwick’s Kilkenny Rhythm and Roots Festival, takes place from the April 29 – May 2.

All forms of Americana music will be wellrepresented over the four days, including swing, bluegrass, rockabilly to cajun, folk and the blues.

From midday to midnight, audiences wind their way through the medieval streets, sam-

Plenty of fresh juice and fruit was also available. Then it was off to the terrace for some Sunday reading before making the short trip back to Dublin, happy and relaxed.

Tankardstown has a Blue Book package available which includes two nights B&B, sparkling afternoon tea for two and three-course evening meals in Brabazon on the night of your choice, for €250 per person sharing. King Sitric costs from €210 for B&B and dinner for two people.

pling the huge range of music with over 80 shows in 30 venues.

Highlights of this year’s line-up include Drive by Truckers, Kort, John Grand, Beth Orton, Wildo Johnson and Mary Gauthier.

Now entering its 57th year, the Cork International Choral Festival is a world-class festival celebrating the very best of choral and vocal music from April 27 to May1.

Up to 5,000 singers from all over the world participate in almost 100 festival events, including spectacular gala concerts, lunchtime concerts and informal public performances which see choirs popping up in a wide range of unusual locations throughout Cork city.

21 April 2011 BLANCH GAZETTE 31

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supportedby byAIB AIB Supported

Interview: Richard White, sales director, LVP Renewables Ltd

Hot water panel for people power SALES director Richard White talks to the Gazette about his career, and the recent challenges faced by Irish businesses.

“2009 was a particularly hard year.

Being made redundant was a huge dint to the pride. Having spent 10 years in total in the hospitality trade, I was determined to find a new career, something to really get my teeth into.

“Sometimes you don’t have to look very hard to find something that has been staring you in the face as an obvious career choice. Growing up in a large family, I saw my father’s business go through some good and bad times.”

Surviving in the manufacturing/robotics business, Richard’s father, Jeff, saw the contraction of the manufacturing business. In 2007 he decided to diversify into the solar industry.

“Obtaining the rights to the Energie panel in Ireland was one of the greatest decisions I made in 35 years of business,” Jeff said.

Richard saw the efficiency of the solar panel installed in his own home around the time of his redundancy, and asked his father for a chance to sell the product.

LVP Renewables Ltd now has six fulltime employees and distributors around the country.

They are linked into Expert Hardware, a firm that has 30 stores nationwide, along with providing a training programme for the major plumbing colleges around the country.

“Our competitive advantage is that we can actually provide the customer

Richard White, sales director at LVP Renewables

with a solar system that will offer 100% domestic hot water 365 days a year, with no back up from oil/gas. One small panel will suffice for a family of six people,” Richard says.

Based just seconds from the M50, a recent move from Coolock to their Finglas HQ has been a huge step forward, as they can now display their units in an accessible location in the heart of a thriving industrial estate.

LVP’s business model is based on excellence in installations. Richard believes existing customers are crucial to

Q: When you were a kid, what did you want to be?

A: Mars bar taster

Q: What do you like least about your job?

A: I often have long drives

Q: What was your first job?

A: Banqueting waiter in the

around the country

Ardenode Hotel near Ballymore Eustace

Q: When going on holiday, what air carrier do you use?

A: Ryanair

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: Can’t remember, but

Q: What kind of car do you drive?

A: Opel Astra

seemed like a lot at the time

Q: Can you swim?

A: More of a floater

seems to be different

Q: What do you like most about your job?

A: I’m in sales, there is no greater thrill than closing a sale

Credit Union Loan Q: I have a €15,000 credit union loan. I really shouldn’t have been given it in the first place as I used it to take a holiday and pay off some other debts. My job security wasn’t great at the time, and I am now unemployed. Will they bring me to court if I just stop paying and what will happen if they do? Paul - Drimnagh

future business which is reflected in the number of positive testimonials received.

LVP’s complete solution service offers turn-key hot water systems with a transparent pricing structure and single-day installations.

According to Richard: “It is never easy to sell anything, but saving money and the environment at the same time seems to be a winning formula in the public’s eye.”

Find out more by calling one of the team on (01)8643838 or visiting www. lvprenewables.ie.

Q&A

Q: When did you start your present job?

A: It all depends, every day

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS

Q: Would you ever bunjee jump?

A: I have done two before Q: Do you play any sport?

A: I play tennis badly Q: What is your favourite food and beverage?

A: Pizza and a nice cold beer Q: Who would you rather have dinner with, Brian Cowen or Brian O’Driscoll?

A: Brian O’Driscoll Q: How many times each week do you go to the ‘hole in the wall’?

A: Once or twice Q: How many times each year do you shop for clothes?

A: Once is enough Q: What is the name of your favourite shop?

A: Books Unlimited Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: About five I’d say, not too sure

Q: Where is your favourite holiday destination?

A: Going to South of France this year, as my brother lives there, so hopefully there

Q: Have you ever met Bertie Ahern?

A: Served him a few times back in my hotel days in the Davenport Hotel

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: Would have liked to be an actor

Q: When do you wish to retire?

A: About 60 Q: What will you do then?

A: Depends on how well the next 32 years go!

A: REGISTERED judgments secured by credit unions against their defaulting customers increased by 800% since January 2009.

There were a total of 1,626 judgments totalling €21m in loans in the first six months of 2010 (source : Stubbs Gazette). Arrears are on the increase as is legal action to retrieve sums owed.

The mounting bad debt in credit unions is one reason why the Financial Regulator last year ordered credit unions to hold the payment of dividends and interest to make provision for these bad and doubtful debts.

I am presuming, in your case, the credit union evaluated your ability to repay at the time and in approving your loan endorsed that ability.

The first missed payment will be registered in the Irish Credit Bureau in Clonskeagh.

This is a cooperative of 95 + financial institutions from banks, building societies, insurance companies to leasing companies and even some of the bigger credit unions. They record every loan transaction in the country and every missed one too.

Slow payments are monitored also.

Once you have missed a payment, the record of that missed payment stays there for five years. Every time you look for credit, your credit history will be like a beacon to would-be lenders to decline such requests.

If you have a judgment registered against you, it will stay on the ICB for life and it will be extremely difficult to obtain credit ever. That is why you have to guard your good name.

Eventual legal action will follow after repeated default of your monthly repayments, resulting in an inevitable judgment – a mark, as I said, that is on the ICB forever, and one you really want to avoid.

A positive course for you to take is the negotiation course. Communicate with your credit union; tell them where you are at, business and employment wise.

Bring an income and expenditure statement with you and your latest bank statements.

Show them you mean business and that you are prepared to roll up the sleeves and do what is required in order to repay this debt.

Ask for an initial six months repayment freeze, dust down the CV and see what work you can obtain.

You have to give them some kind of hope that this loan will be discharged at some future point and that you are making an effort.

Good luck with the negotiations.

32 BLANCH GAZETTE 21 April 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929 Des Bishop

Des Bishop’s latest internationally acclaimed show My Dad Was Nearly James Bond, tells of a remarkable life tinged with regret.

April 21 and 22 at 8pm. Tickets: €20/€25.

Frankie Gavin and De Dannan Frankie Gavin is one of the genuine legends of Irish music and a Guinness World Record holder as the fastest fiddle player in the world.

April 23 at 8pm. Tickets: €16, €18 and €20.

SEAMUS ENNIS CULTURAL CENTRE 01 802 0898 Twelfth Day Twelfth Day are at the forefront of innovative, modern British folk music. With a fresh, open-minded approach to song writing, the duo create an entirely unique sound, interweaving masterful Fiddle and Harp playing with beautifully harmonised vocals in stylish and dynamic arrangements.

Saturday, April 23 at 8:30pm. Admission: €16.

THE HELIX 01 700 7000 High School Rocks A high-energy, foot-stomping, totally interactive production featuring all the very best hits from High School Musical 1, 2, and 3, Hannah Montana, Camp Rock and Glee! The High School Musical phenomenon which has smashed box office records everywhere, together with Miley Cyress from Hannah Montana – The Movie, the hugely successful film Camp Rock with The Jonas Brothers and the Glee Club, are all paid tribute to in this amazing show.

April 27 at 1.30pm and 6.30pm. Tickets: €19, family €56.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Unoriginal Sin

Eve has managed to journey well into her twenties without being kissed. Well, not properly. Bill is well passed that milestone and has been kissed – on countless occasions.

He is rich, alcoholic, and girl crazy. Eve is engaged to Neville. Bill is married to Jenny. Jenny is having an affair with Jeremy, but she remains utterly devoted to her husband’s cheque book. Miles is Bill’s best friend. Or at least he was, before he discovered Bill’s underpants hanging from the lightshade in his bedroom. Then there’s Father Tomlin. At least he’s taken a lifelong vow of celibacy.

Or so his daughter claims! Original Sin? It seems there’s nothing very original about it any more.

April 26 to 30 at 8pm. Admission: €18/€15

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Hot Mikado

This hilarious musical comedy is a 1940’s style update of Gilbert and Sullivan’s, The Mikado, and features highenergy dance routines with great vocal arrangements of blues, swing, hot gospel and scorching torch songs.

April 27 to 30 at 8pm. Tickets €21.

CIVIC THEATRE 01 4627477 The Bad Arm – Confessions of a Dodgy Irish Dancer If you thought Irish dancers were all curly-haired cutie pies with perfect posture, meet a scowling girl from London in this outrageous antidote to Riverdance.

Written and performed by Maire Clerkin, The Bad Arm – Confessions of a Dodgy Irish Dancer is an uproarious yet poignant one-woman play.

Amid astounding bursts of rhythm and physical theatre, this ugly-duckling-never-quite-swan recounts her experiences of sex and booze and rock and roll like only a convent-educated, Irish catholic girl can.

The audience is brought on a hilariously candid comingof-age journey through the pre-wig world of Irish dancing.

An all-together more innocent time ... or so we thought.

April 18 to 23. Admission: €16 and €12 concession.

Check website for times.

This film, about a group of ordinary teens and youths who find themselves fighting a guerilla war when their Australian town is over-run by invaders, feels rather odd; a curious fusion of Down-Under sensibilities and the kind of explosive silliness we’re more used to from Hollywood

An odd-tralian film There could be dark days ahead for Summer Bay, if the plucky Oz youths in this film can’t stop would-be attackers KATE CROWLEY

GIVEN the sight of Russell Brand on the horizon in a thoroughly pointless update of “Arthur” (someone so odious, I’d almost watch a new Clive Owen film instead – well, almost; let’s not jump to extremes, dear reader), my feet swiftly swerve away with Riverdance levels of speed towards ...

Tomorrow, When the War Began; a film that may have led to high-fives all round at the Australian Tourism Board (as it was filmed in various scenic and lovely Oz spots), yet could possibly lead to one or two raised eyebrows across the Asia Basin, of which more anon.

A small group of Wirrawee youngsters set off on one of those weekends that youths in movies are always setting off on (no hanging around outside McDonalds at the local shopping centre for this lot), with the young ladies

FILM OF THE WEEK: Tomorrow, When The (12A) 103 mins War Began Director: Stuart Beattie Starring: Caitlin Stasey, Lincoln Lewis, Chris Pang, Andy Ryan, Deniz Akdeniz and the Australian countryside

OUR VERDICT: ALTHOUGH Kate thinks her dear daughter, Crowleyetta, seems barely able to find her homework at the weekend, the Australian youths in this film prove a surprisingly resourceful lot, displaying rather more intuition for guerilla warfare than one might expect.

It’s a derring-do, gung-ho, boys’-own, somewhat-silly tale of teens versus tanks, more or less. Still, at least the scenery is lovely ...

and gentlemen having a lovely time indeed in a remote, scenic place that’s far from home.

It’s Hell. (Fundamentalists may be a little disappointed to note that it’s a charmingly-named remote valley near their town, which must lend itself to some catchy Wirrawee Tourism Board slogans, one imagines.)

But Hell is not, in fact, very far from war, as it turns out that, while they were all off working on their tans and fumbling their way through awkward relationships, A Foreign Power has

invaded, with Wirrawee proving to be a luvverlee and key place through which to invade Oz, and to start plundering her natural resources.

So, it’s first stop Wirrawee, and then on to the likes of Ramsey Street.

Strewth! The bounders!

What are our perfectly shaped heroes and heroines to do?

Why, fight back, of course, as we all know – through lots of films – that if there’s one thing that bad guys can’t defeat in the movies, it’s a bunch of bloomin’ kids.

And especially if it’s

bloomin’ kids who swiftly organise themselves into a guerilla cell, and then set about thwarting “The Foreign Power’s” plans, while using Hell as a secret, unknown base in which to hide out.

The bad guys’ plans focus on a bridge at the town – a key infrastructural spot that is enabling the invaders to, well, invade, it being one of their key access points into the country.

Heaven knows what’s happening over in Summer Bay. And so, while the young men and women discover a newfound ingenuity with DIY firepower, and prove adept with guns and devising hit-and-run missions – well, shouting “Rack off!” just wouldn’t cut it, I suppose – the scene is set for a climactic face-off between the plucky kids and the invading army.

And then, presumably, things will really ramp

up in the next, inevitable movie ...

Older readers may be thinking to themselves: “Hmmm. This sounds like a twist on that 1980’s clunker, Red Dawn, booted down under to Australia, with more than a dash of Home And Away added for good measure, and infused throughout with the can-do spirit of MacGyver and The A-Team.” Well, quite.

(I do hope my editor never notices such eloquent reader comments.)

It’s a little curious how the bad guys here are painted as a coalition of various Asian people, as if, one day, China, Korea, Taiwan and, ooh, take your pick, all decided to unite and make a land rush on Oz; a faintly odd ideology to perpetuate, perhaps.

Still, as far as somewhat silly battle movies set in Australia and aiming for the Tween market go, it’s all right, mate ...

21 April 2011 BLANCH GAZETTE 33

‘Hello? Have you a AIAIAI, the big noise in audio problem? You fall for scam calls?’

ROB HEIGH

ADAM MAGUIRE

A FEW weeks ago, this column looked at the impending threat of viruses for mobile phones, although it is not the only phone-based risk out there.

Going on a lot of anecdotal evidence over the past few months, Irish householders have become a common target for phone scammers, who try to trick people into handing over private information on their computer.

This is not as straightforward as them posing as your bank and asking for your details; instead, they try to get you to use your computer to effectively do the same.

Here is how the scam works ...

The call Potential victims will receive an unsolicited call, usually from an oddlooking number. The person on the other end will tell them they are calling from “technical support” for their computer or operating system, or something to that effect.

They will then tell the user that they have noticed errors on their machine and are calling to help resolve them.

The confidence trick Once the victim shows signs of believing them, they will likely ask them to turn on their computer and undertake a number of tasks.

Often, these tasks are completely harmless, but they are used to make

the victim believe their computer is at risk.

For example, they might get the victim, in a roundabout way, to open a folder deep within Windows.

They will tell them most of the files there are viruses that need to be removed, when in actual fact they are obscure, though necessary, files that help the computer to work properly.

The scam Once they have built trust, they will ask the victim to do one of two things.

The first is to go to a website and download a piece of software, under the pretence of it being a way of solving their “problem”.

In reality, it is a virus, and will only create more of its own.

Alternatively, they might ask the user to use Windows’ built-in remote connection software, which allows the scammer to gain access to and take control of their computer.

They will claim to do this so that they can fix the problem; in reality, they just want access to their personal data.

Scammers have been cold-

The reality The truth of the matter is, no-one from Microsoft or any computer manufacturer will ever call people out of the blue about a problem they are having – they would have to ring them first.

Even if there is a problem with a user’s computer, these companies cannot possibly know that, unless the user tells them first.

The scammers are playing the odds. Most houses now have PCs, and most PC users have some kind of problem with them from time to time.

However, if you get a call and want to be sure that it is a scam, do ask t h e m for more details – for example, what model number is on your computer (usually, the base)?

But the best move is to simply hang up on them.

Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc The latest Androidbased phone from Sony Ericsson (above) is a clear follow-up to its original Xperia

device, and is a clear improvement, though it is still imperfect.

Ironing out many of the creases still remaining in Sony Ericsson’s approach to phones, the Xperia Arc is slick, stylish and quite easy to use.

It offers a powerful processor, a bright screen and impressive camera, and its user-interface is quite user-friendly, too.

It even has a HDMIout port, m a king it easy to conn e c t to HD T V s , so that you can watch the videos and pictures you recorded with it on a big screen.

That said, parts of the device do seem a litt l e f l i m s y, especially the cheap-feeling plastic on the back.

As well as this, the company’s Timescape software is not as good a way to browse through messages, Facebook and Twitter updates as you might like.

Overall, however, it is another big step forward from Sony Ericsson, and is certainly a phone worth considering for those in the market.

The Sony Ericsson Xperia Arc is available on all major networks as a bill-pay and Pay As You Go handset.

calling people for decades; now, your computer is a reason for them to target you, in a bid to steal valuable data

Visit teic.ie for the latest tech news, reviews and views.

WITH the current vogue for high-end headphones becoming essential cooltools for iPhone and iPad users, a huge range of new, chic and high-specification eargoggles are hitting the market at the moment.

One of the best of these is AIAIAI’s TMA-1 headphones, designed with top performance in mind and, with the assistance of some of the world’s finest DJs and producers, including

2ManyDJs, A-Trak, and James Murphy from LCD Soundsystem, the Danish company have produced an astonishingly distinctive, elegant and dynamic product, priced €199.95.

With competition from Dr Dre’s Beats and the perennial Sennheiser range, the TMA-1s are set apart by their classic, minimalist design and their ability to deliver clarity and definition of sound in every genre.

At home, the headphones come into their own w h e n matched with a good soundcard, but even iPhone and laptop

sound reproduction is good.

In a club setting, the frequency range is impressive and the TMA-1s pack a punch loud enough to enable you to mix with ease, the finer treble elements not being overwhelmed by the powerful bass the headphones deliver. The sound is better than a lot of the higherpriced headphones on the market, that often elevate whomping bass for tonal balance, making the warmth of the TMA-1s appealing to all ears.

Packaged with Danish style and very affordable, the TMA-1s are a great addition to any audiophile’s toolkit.

For more information, see www.aiaiai.com.

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PLANNING NOTICE FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL I, Myles O’Donoghue intend to apply for permission for development at 2, Georgian Village, Castleknock, Dublin 15. The development will consist of the demolition of the existing single storey garage & utility room to the side and the construction of a two storey extension to the side and single storey extension to the rear consisting of a kitchen / dining area, utility room & TV room at ground floor level and a master bedroom complete with en-suite and walk-in wardrobe at first floor level, installation of a rooflight to the rear elevation over the existing stairwell, internal alterations and all ancillary siteworks. Permission is also being sought to form an additional vehicular entrance to the front complete with entrance gates and the erection of matching entrance gates to the existing vehicular entrance.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (20Euros) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of this application 12368

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PLANNING NOTICE FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL I, Christopher Cleary intend to apply for permission for development at 2, Barberstown, Clonsilla, Dublin 15. The development will consist of the installation of a mechanical aerated treatment plant and raised percolation area complete with all ancillary siteworks.

The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its’ public opening hours and a submission or observation may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

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21 April 2011 BLANCH GAZETTE 35

GazetteSPORT

PURPLE PATCH: Bernard Brogan on the National League Final: Page 37

DARING RACES: ADVENTURE CONTEST SET TO TAKE PLACE ACROSS DUBLIN IN MAY

The greatest race takes place in the Fair City STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@gazettegroup.com

K AT H RY N T h o m a s became the first ever person to abseil from the top of the Aviva Stadium when she launched the inaugural Dublin Adventure Race, which takes place on May 21, in the stadium last week.

T he former K ing’s Hospital student and television presenter looks set to star t a

trend for adventure, as approximately 1,000 competitors are expected to take to the streets for the unique event, which is set to get the adrenaline pumping, with participants required to run, cycle and kayak around the city.

This race will transform the city into an adventure playground, showing how epic Dublin can be.

In teams of two or

three, or solo if competitors prefer to go it alone, the race will kick off at the Adventure Weekend in the RDS.

Racing around Competitors will take to their bikes first, which will take them along beaches, canal paths and into parks, with a tricky assault course to master inbetween.

They will then take on the kayaking section of the challenge before

Siobhan Byrne and Kathryn Thomas became the first people to abseil the Aviva

changing to their runners to complete a street orienteering section, where they will pick up points for every checkpoint reached. The real high of the event is the abseil from the top of the Aviva stadium.

O r g a n i s e r, I r i s h Olympian and former world rowing champion, Gearoid Towey, said of the event: “This is a totally unique event, which will cater for all levels of fitness from elite athletes to those

who want to tr y an adventure race for the very first time.

“We are using the amazing amenities that Dublin has on offer to transform the city into a giant adventure playground.

“The aim of the game is to encourage people to get out and get active while having a whole lot of fun at the same time.”

To register for the e ve n t a t w w w. d u b lindaresyou.com.

36 BLANCH GAZETTE 21 April 2011

GazetteSport Sport Rugby

FastRugby

METRO SHIELD: ASHBROOK TEAM REACH SEMI-FINALS

End-of-season tour a huge success COOLMINE’S Under-13s flew out of Dublin Airport last Friday morning for Luton Airport and their end-of-season tour.

The two teams who travelled started their matches soon after arriving, playing on Friday evening against Olney RFC and Bletchley Park RFC. The matches was keenly contested and played in great spirit.

Saturday was a day off, and early in the morning, they travelled on the coach to Thorpe Park.

On Sunday morning, there were two matches with their hosts, Bletchley Park.

Again, these matches were keenly contested and played in great spirit. After some very good and fair refereeing, Coolmine ended winning one and losing the other. After watching the Northampton v Ulster match, they headed back to the airport for the return journey home.

Rory Best and Paddy Wallace were spotted at Luton airport and were very obliging when asked to pose for photographs.

Seconds and thirds in cup action A DOUBLE-bill of home games for Coolmine on Saturday saw mixed results for the two teams.

Their thirds suffered a 7-28 defeat against St Mary’s in the Winters’ Cup, scuppering their hopes of retaining

the title.

There was better news for Mine’s seconds in the Albert O’Connell Cup, when they had a narrow 19-18 victory over Old Belvedere in a hard-fought affair.

Coolmine were trailing by two points with the last seconds ticking away, before Eoin Carbury slotted a penalty between the posts as the final whistle sounded.

Coolmine saw off their perennial rivals, Monkstown, whom they defeated in the quarter-final of the Metro Shield

’Mine dig deep for win METRO SHIELD Q/F Coolmine Monkstown

39 24

sport@gazettegroup.com

C O OL M I N E ’ S f i r s t team were back in action in defence of their Metro Shield title, lining out in the last eight of the competition against their regular rivals this season, Monkstown.

In the clubs’ third meeting in as many weeks, they took on southsiders at home in defence of the title.

Any fears of the squad not being match fit were soon allayed when Coolmine started the game at a blistering pace.

They showed their intent shortly after kickoff, electing not to take an easy penalty under the posts, but kicking

for touch instead, clearly hungry for the full seven points.

It wasn’t long before they were in for their first score, when a breakout for Harley Murray from his own 22 gained vital ground. His pass released Conor Hayes up the right wing, who put on the afterburners to touch down in the corner.

Three minutes later, H ay e s w a s c a u s i n g problems up the right wing again, this time the ball being spread wide, leaving Brian Moran to touch down for the home side’s second try.

The conversion by Donal Crotty left Coolmine 12-0 ahead.

However, Monkstown fought back and, after multiple phases, looked

like they had found a gap in the Coolmine defence. A desperate tackle was deemed to be too high by the referee, who immediately awarded a penalty try.

Opportunities Monkstown missed an opportunity to further close the gap two minutes later, when they failed to to convert their own penalty but, soon after, Coolmine made no mistake with their penalty attempt after a Monkstown high tackle, though appeals from the crowd for a penalty try were ignored by the referee.

After missing another penalty, Monkstown lost their hooker to the sin bin just before halftime.

Coolmine again declined to kick a very convertible penalty early into the second half, and a tap-and-go brought them into the Monkstown 22, but they could not convert the possession into points.

After 12 minutes, a well-rehearsed move from a lineout, which Coolmine had dominated throughout the game, paid dividends.

Ball secured by Niall Ganly, the inside pass back to Brian Moran wrong-footed the Monkstow n defence and Moran touched down for his second try of the game.

An intercept try for the visitors four minutes later gave them some hope of salvaging the tie, but a penalty soon after

from Coolmine pushed the score to 25-12.

The game moved into the last quarter and a penalty for Coolmine saw some great interplay between backs and forwards, resulting in Johnny Lee going over the whitewash for another score.

With only ten minutes left Monkstown managed to pull back another try, but Coolmine responded almost immediately, with Martin Hayes peeling off the back of a ruck to touch down.

The visitors had the last say, scoring another try in the dying seconds, but it was too little, too late, and Coolmine marched on to the semifinals with a comfortable 39-24 victory.

21 April 2011 BLANCH GAZETTE 37

in association with

One vision for Brogan’s Dubs

FastSport

With the biggest game in Dublin football only days All Blacks’ Fitzpatrick away, ROB HEIGH caught up with Bernard Brogan to gives Crokes a lesson talk about the drive in the camp to secure the title THE opportunity to claim the first National league title since 1993 is one that Bernard Brogan clearly relishes. Last season’s AllStar and national Player of the Year spoke to GazetteSport last week when he took some time out from training to take on Eoin Cadogan from Cork, and Michael Murphy from Donegal, putting their formidable football and fitness skills to the test by playing Kinect Sports for Xbox 360.

Having won the sprint challenge, Bernard turned his attention to the matter at hand and the chance to claim some silverware for Dublin in the National League final at Croke Park this weekend.

We started by asking

him about the source of the consistency and momentum that Dublin have built up over recent months in the league.

“At the start of the year, we put it to ourselves that

I think more than 30 lads have been tried out at Croke Park, and that’s been huge for us, and our successful league campaign, and being in the final, was our goal. Any-

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

‘I think Cork learned it’s time to keep an eye on Dublin after the last game. We’re looking forward to a really good day at Croke Park’ --------------------------------------------------------

we wanted to be more competitive in the league, and over the years gone by, the management have rotated players and try to look at them, but we wanted to do that this year while winning games.

thing more this weekend will be a bonus.”

With some commentators voicing concern that Dublin’s perfect 15 has not been evident so far, Bernard was far from concerned about what

Bernard Brogan is looking to deliver the knockout blow to Cork this weekend

he considers to be far less of a problem than some would think.

“That we have so many good players in all positions is a benefit. They all do the job so well; if anything happens to any player over the summer, we have lads who can step in and do the job just as well. I think we have that now, with two lads for every position. If they played either one of them, there would be no question, and the competition at training is huge as well, which drives us on. But the strength of the panel has been a huge factor for our success so far this year.”

With All-Ireland champions Cork as opposition this weekend, Bernard was very sure of the test that awaits Dublin in the final.

“We expect a different game from the last game, when Cork had a bit of a hangover from their holidays, or rust after winning their All-Ireland. But we are feeling good. It’s going to be a very tough game, we are going out to win the title, not just to show up and hand it to Cork.

We’re going out to win the title. It’s been a long time, and it will be huge for the capital to win some silverware, and we will be going all out for the win.”

Brogan felt that the side had learned a lot from the match at Croke Park in February that saw Dublin come out on top.

“I think we gained a lot of mental strength from it.

We learned that they’re not world-beaters, that we can defeat them. They might have been the form team for the last year, but the win at Croke Park will give us a sense of positivity that, when we turn it on, we can beat them. You can only get that from winning, and we haven’t had that for a long time. It will be huge that we have that in our heads when we meet them again.

“I think they learned it’s time to keep an eye on Dublin. We have been putting different panels into play, and what team we will put out and what way we will play. We want to make it hard for teams to read us, and we want them to have a hard time finding a solution to our gameplan. We’re looking forward to a really good day.”

With the Dubs filling Croke Park with the assistance of the Spring series of games, Bernard was delighted with the effect that the run of games has had on the Metropolitan’s success this year.

“I think it’s been brilliant, a great publicity for the GAA. At a time when other sports are so strong, it’s great to see the GAA making it clear they want to get people on boards.

The series was a huge success in terms of getting kids involved in the game, and, hopefully, that will continue.”

NEW ZEALAND All Blacks legend and Laureus Sport for Good Foundation goodwill ambassador Sean Fitzpatrick was in Dublin last week to pass on his wisdom to the Dublin footballers and hurlers ahead of their National League finals in the coming weeks.

The captain of the 1990s’ all-conquering team also spent time with some of the Kilmacud Crokes’ Under-12 boys’ and girls’ teams and gave them a lesson in how to do the Haka.

Great Ireland Run winners announced WE ARE delighted to announce the winners of the SPAR Great Ireland Run 2011 competition for local runners in each of GazetteSport’s eight areas.

Blanchardstown: Philip O’Leary and Bronagh Elliott Castleknock: John Quinn and Stephanie Holt Clondalkin: Brian O’Connor and Aoife Fitzroy Dundrum: Mark Sheridan and Vanessa Lenehan Dun Laoghaire: Flavio Rea and Jennifer Duffy Lucan: Derry McVeigh and Denise Lynch Malahide: Michael Flynn and Sinead Duffy Swords: Vincent Brady and Marion Doherty We will be in touch with the

winners directly.

Ireland could still appear at World Cup 2015 IRELAND could yet appear at the 2015 cricket World Cup after it was announced that the International Cricket Council president Sharad Pawar had asked the executive of the governing body to reconsider the composition of the tournement last week.

Ireland’s stars, including Kevin O’Brien, were insensed when it was announced that associate nations, the clubs who are not full members of the ICC, would be excluded from the tournament when it next runs in Australia and New Zealand.

But the matter will be reconsidered in June at the next meeting of the ICC executive in Hong Kong.

38 BLANCH GAZETTE 21 April 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

Healy’s hand in win: St Brigid’s stars assist Jackies ST BRIGID’S Colleen Barrett, Sorcha

Furlong, Ailish McKenna, Elaine Kelly and Noelle Healy were part of the panel who propelled Dublin ladies’ footballers back to Division 1 last weekend with a convincing victory over Cavan in the National League Division 2 semi-final.

Noelle scored 1-1 as the Jackies overcame the Breffini girls, 3-12 to 1-9, and now await the winner of the second semi-final between Meath and Kerry in the Division 2 decider. Picture: GAApics. com

Phoenix held to draw as Swords Celtic strike late AN INCREDIBLE late double saw Swords Celtic deny Phoenix what had looked like a sure-fire victory in their LSL Saturday Division 3A tie last Monday night at Martin Savage Park.

The Ashtown club had their scares but looked to be cruising after Greg Murray’s header in the 19th minute and simple finish two minutes before the break had them cruising down the final stretch.

But Stephen Sheridan nudged his side back into contention with 45 seconds of normal time remaining and when the home defence allowed goalkeeper Stephen Caul’s free-kick bounce in the area, it was panic stations.

James Smith nodded it on and Stephen Moanse stole in to sweep the ball home from three yards as three Swords’ attackers followed the ball while the Phoenix defence was marked absent.

It was a stunning end to a reasonably open tie, let flow for the most part by Tony McGuinness.

The lively Johnny Murphy was the first to have a dig at goal in the 11th minute, intercepting 30 yards out and then firing a daisy-cutter which Gavin Hickey got a little touch to nudge out for a corner.

Phoenix, though, took the initiative in fine fashion when they raced forward, bursting out from defence and setting Steve Duffy free down the right flank.

His pin-point cross picked out the run of Murray who applied plenty of headed power to go with placement just to Caul’s right. He got a decent hand to it but not enough to push around the post.

Anto Murray went close soon after when put through one-on-one but Caul did well down low as ’Nix kept the ascendancy going.

And they added to their lead when Anto Murray drifted again down the right-line cut to the backline. He had two options at the back post which drew centre halves Frank Kilbride and Ray McGrane so he smartly pulled the back to Greg Murray on the penalty spot and he simply picked the gap between the spread-eagled defenders.

It looked to be enough for all three points, but Swords came back stronger in the final third of the game as the tireless Murphy stung the palms of Hickey, while Tommy and James Smith’s introduction had a big influence.

GILLIGAN CUP: SAINTS EYE LAST-FOUR PLACE AFTER VICTORY

St Mochta’s will look for a place in the final of the GIlligan Cup in the next round after overcoming the challenge of Whitehall

Mochta’s reach the semis GILLICAN CUP St Mochta’s Whitehall Rangers EUGENE FOGARTY

1 0

sport@gazettegroup.com

ST MOCHTA’S booked their place in the semifinals of the Gilligan Cup with a narrow victor y over W hitehall Rangers last Sunday morning in Porterstown Park.

A solitar y secondhalf goal from centre half Luke Harrison was enough to see the home side over the line and into the next round of the cup.

Harrison’s 25-yard free-kick was all Mochta’s needed to

progress but, in truth, they could have had more.

The first 45 minutes saw a nervy, cautious approach from both sides. Niether team wanted to give too much with the threat of elimination hanging over their heads.

As a result, the game was at times scrappy and cagey but, as the game continued, chances became more frequent.

The best chance of the opening half fell to the away side. Whitehall’s centre forward found himself in a one-on-one situation with Mochta’s goalkeeper, Ken Craigy.

The keeper managed to pull out an outstanding save, however, to keep the scores level at the break.

The second half saw an upturn in the performance of the home side.

Passes began to stick and energy levels were intensified as Mochta’s went about seeking a path to winning the game.

Ultimately, Harrison’s goal was overwhelmingly deserved, and just reward for the number of chances their midfield created.

In this regard, Billy O’ Neill was extremely influential in what was

an all-round strong team performance in the second period.

The margin of victory could have been more than just a single goal.

Further pressure from Mochta’s saw them hit the woodwork, as well as having two further attempts cleared off the goal line.

With only the one goal deficit to overcome, Whitehall were never out of the game, but they were finding it hard to make any inroads into the final third of the pitch. Their future in the competition was dependent on scoring a goal, but chances were few and far between.

The home side became more comfortable in possession than their opponents as the match wore on and their back four were very composed when the ball came their way and strong under pressure.

By the time the final whistle came Mochtas had been made to sweat for their victory but they should have had the game wrapped up earlier.

Numerous scoring chances were wasted in the second 45 minutes as they assumed control of a nervy cup tie, but ultimately they were well worth their place in the final four.

21 April 2011 BLANCH GAZETTE 39

in association with

HURLING: SEASON BEGINS TO TURN FOR THE SAINTS

CLUB NOTICEBOARD ST BRIGID’S Congratulations to Daire Plunkett,

Senior and junior hurlers had great

Alan Nolan and the Dublin hurlers on

league wins over Naomh Mearnog and

their fantastic victory over Cork and

Liffey Gaels. Senior Footballers also

reaching the league final.

had a good win over Ballyboden in their

Easter Camp takes place on April 26 to 28 from 10am to 1.30pm. To register, contact Paul O Brien on 087-915-4748.

Well done to our feile girls, who did us proud over the weekend.

Major annual fundraising club golf classic takes place on Friday, May 27 in Royal Tara; to enter a team, contact Phil Kelly on 086 773 3693.

Best of luck to Barry, Paddy, Declan, Sean and Cian this Sunday vs Cork

AHL 1 St Brigid’s 3-12 Naomh Mearnog 2-11 EUGENE FOGARTY sport@gazettegroup.com

ST BRIGID’S earned a deserved, yet rare, win in the senior hurling league on Sunday morning over Naomh Mearnog of Portmarknock in Russell Park.

Injuries to key players has seen their season thus far marred by inconsistency but this victory showed what they are capable of when on top form and propelled them away from the lower echelons of the league table.

Ultimately, it was in the first half when the damage was done to Naomh Mearnog’s chances. A lead of 2-7 to 0-7 at the break left Brigid’s is pole position for the victory and it left Mearnog chasing the game for the second half hour.

Goals from perennial goalscorer Dairmuid O’Mahony swung the

game in the home side’s favour by the break.

The accuracy of Aodhan McEnerney from long distance frees also proved to be crucial in amassing an early lead.

Naomh Mearnog stayed in touch, however, with a series of points of their own.

Both sides kept the scoreboard ticking over but it was the goals that made the difference.

A fight back from the away side in the second half was inevitable, and they raised their game accordingly. An early goal within two minutes had Brigid’s under pressure on the scoreboard but there was no let-up from either side as scores were consistently posted.

The prominence of Ciaran Kellet in the full for ward line, as well as Jamie Winters in midfield, were vital to the Brigid’s cause, as both created consistent problems to their opposite numbers and were influential in keeping

their side in front.

In what was an extremely competitive game throughout, Mearnog showed real spirit in the second period to close the sixpoint gap from the first period.

They got to within one point of Brigid’s with 15 minutes remaining but that was the closest they came to reversing the arrears.

The crucial scores of the game came in the final ten minutes. Jamie Winters blocked down a Mearnog defender and proceeded to finish clinically into the net.

Conor Ryan soon fol-

lowed up with a pivotal point that gave Brigid’s an unassailable fourpoint lead that would seal the win.

Mearnog never gave up even as the game was slipping from their grasp but, with Domhnall O’Meara and Sean Brady really stepping up to the plate in defence, Brigid’s were able to keep their opponents at bay in the frantic final few minutes.

Brigid’s will see this performance as something to build upon, and, hopefully, a sign of things to come for the remainder of the season.

ers beat Round Towers, and inters beat Jude’s in the cup. Minor footballers beat St Mark’s in league, while our Junior As beat Castleknock in Cup. U-16 footballers were narrowly beaten by Cuala. U-13s were edged out by a point against Clontarf in league.

U-15s had a good win over St Anne’s.

We need your old mobile phones, to

Final. Well done to Colleen, Sorcha, Ail-

get a second defibrillator. Phone drop-

ish, Elaine, Noelle and Sarah on being

off inside the bar.

victory over Cavan.

Brigid’s learn from Mearnog victory

Senior ladies footballers had a cup win over Parnell’s. Senior 2 football-

in Croke Park in the National League

promoted back to NFL Div 1 after their

St Brigid’s will be looking to turn around their patchy start to the 2011 league campaign after this win

re-fixed league game.

Club lotto takes place in Russell Park this Thursday, jackpot €12,400.

ST PEREGRINE’S OUR club boxing night was a brilliant

numbers drawn were 3, 13, 16 and 26.

success - take a bow Shay Martin

Next week’s jackpot is €3,200, and is

and Ger Harford for organising such a

also available to play on-line using the

brilliant night. Highlights were Davey

link on the club website.

Byrne , Gav Harte and John Chaney, who had the only KO of the night.

Well done to Eric Lowndes and the Dublin minor footballers who overcame Westmeath.

Race night on in the club this Thursday from 8pm for the senior section of the club, see club website for details.

Great wins on the field last Sunday for the minor footballers and Junior C footballers. Junior hurlers got a credible draw in league.

A big thanks to all who helped out with the Dublin Spring Series initiative.

League Final tickets can be collected this week, members will be notified by text.

Club shop is open on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 6pm to 7pm and on Saturdays from 10am to 12pm.

Bingo is on Wednesday nights at 8.30pm.

Any member not buying lotto tickets

if anybody within the club would like

visit CNP.ie and support your club for

to make a difference and join a com-

only €2 a week.

mittee please see club website for

The lottery jackpot was not won,

details and contacts.

WESTMANSTOWN GAELS/GARDA SENIOR mens’ news: Intermediates

A busy weekend for the Gaels with

drew with O’Dwyer’s on Saturday

the U-14 girls becoming the Division

evening.

4 feile champions. The team beat an

Junior 1s lost to Wanderers on Sun-

excellent St Anne’s side last Sunday in

day morning, and Junior 2s had a hard-

an epic encounter after two periods

fought win against Na Fianna on Sun-

of extra time. The U-12s beat a strong

day afternoon. Training as usual is on

Thomas Davis side in their final blitz

Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7.30pm.

day to remain unbeaten in the compe-

Intermediates play Ballyboughal in championship on Wednesday, April 27, in Parnell Park at 8.30pm.

tition. Well done to the boys.

The U-11s got in on the act, too, with a win over Foxrock Cabinteely in their

Ladies lost to a very good Raheny

blitz day on Saturday. This was an

side in the cup away last Wednes-

appropriate reward for all of their

day evening despite putting in a very

hard efforts in recent weeks.

strong second-half performance.

The U-8 hurlers lost to Liffey Gaels

Training day out for ladies’ team at

away. The U-7s played Ratoath on the

the Curragh on Saturday, April 30, so

all-weather as a precursor to future

full turnout expected.

Dublin v Meath clashes circa 2025.

Some payments re New York trip

Finally, the U-10s played the U-9s in

still outstanding - please pay as soon

a friendly match on Saturday morn-

as possible to Alan Lynch or Eugene

ing. Well done to all of the teams, their

O’Sullivan.

respective coaches and the parents.

ALL OF YOUR CASTLEKNOCK SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 35-39

FORTUNES TURN: St Brigid’s get back to winning ways in AHL1 against Mearnog: P31

EXCLUSIVE: Bernard Brogan talks to GazetteSport: P37

GazetteSPORT

Cllr Michael O’Donovan and Kevin O’Brien look over the plans at Porterstown Park when it opened last week

APRIL 21, 2011

Porterstown opens STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@gazettegroup.com

PORTERSTOWN Park played host to its first cricket match when a new artificial pitch was opened last week, providing a new facility to numerous local stakeholders.

The pitch is part of a shared field with Metro St Brigid’s athletic club and will give a new home to Clonee CC and Castleknock CC as well as a growing number of primary schools in the Dublin 15 area who have taken up the sport in recent years.

The installation of the new pitch is an enormous boost for the sport in Dublin 15, where both Fingal county council and Cricket Ireland are already working with local schools to increase participation in the sport.

Clonee CC enjoyed victory at their new home when they notched a 14-run win over Clontarf, with club representative Adnan Ajmi saying: “It was a great atmosphere throughout the day with people stopping by and watching the game as well as asking for details on the game and the clubs playing.”

Clonee were formed recently and will compete in the 2011 Leinster cup competitions with a view to entering the 2012 Leinster Leagues.

They were initially due to play on the ground where Tyrrelstown cricket club had played in 2010

but the erection of soccer posts on the grounds scuppered those plans.

However, Ruairi O’Dulaing from Fingal County Council helped put those fears to rest in the short term

Roller The services of a heavy roller will soon be enlisted to flatten the cricket square, but in the long term it is envisaged that cricket will be included in the plans for a new leisure area currently being planned for Tyrrelstown.

There is also hope of a women’s team being formed after a number of local women approached club member Kumar Varma expressing an interest in playing cricket.

Indeed, efforts are being made to make sure the sport as accessible as possible in the wake of the Irish team’s recent World Cup success in India.

One of those heroes, Kevin O’Brien, was on hand to open the new Porterstown facility, with numerous children from the local national schools joining him for the celebration.

The event also doubled as the launch for the 2011 Leprechaun Cup with Castleknock NS players on hand to cut the tape.

They are one of 38 teams that will compete for the U-13 title in Leinster using Porterstown for their home matches.