City

Gazette DUBLIN CITY

June 29 - July 5, 2017

Find us on

MOTORING: Renault’s new Trafic crew cab is vantastic P22-23

Gazette

XX Month 2017 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 3

DUBLIN CITY

MULESGOLD: The shoe trend that’s taken over the summer...

June 29 - July 5, 2017

SEE P18-19

Find us on

MOTORING: Renault’s new Trafic crew cab is vantastic P22-23

BRIDE:

IN THE NAME OF LOVE

DUBLIN PRIDE: SEE GALLERY P6-7

SPORT The Ice Man talks to The Gazette 29

Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you

Tributes pour in for much loved school headmaster  EMMA NOLAN TRIBUTES have been pouring in for much-loved principal and “wonderful leader” Padraic Carney, left, who was tragically killed while cycling near his Dublin home last week.

Full Story on Page 5

4 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 29 June 2017

CAMDEN STREET | PUB CHAIN TO CREATE OVER 200 NEW JOBS

Wetherspoon’s pub and hotel set to open in 2019  EMMA NOLAN T H E We t h e r s p o o n s planned for Camden Street will finally open its doors in early 2019 following approval from An Bord Pleanala.

This “super-pub” premises will be developed into a 98-room hotel, costing €15 million and bringing 200 new jobs to the area.

This will be the first of the English pub chain to

open in the city centre, amid complaints from local residents that the area is already too full of night time venues.

One appellant to the plans said that the character of the Cam-

Convicted killer threatened to burn charity worker’s home A CONVICTED killer who threatened to burn down the home of a man doing a soup run for homeless people in Dublin city centre has avoided jail.

Mark Bissett (31), who served a six-year sentence for manslaughter, was angry that the “You’re not alone” organisation run by Michael Maher was assisting a relative he had fallen out with. He told Mr Maher that he knew where he lived and threatened to burn down his house.

Bissett, of Swords Road, Dublin 9, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to making a threat to Mr Maher to damage his house intending him to believe it would be carried out at Central Bank Plaza, Dame Street on May 27, 2016.

Bissett has 60 previous convictions including manslaughter, assault and public order offences.

Karl Monahan BL, defending, said that Bissett never intended to carry out the threat, had no difficulties with

Mr Maher and wished to apologise.

He submitted Bissett had been intoxicated at the time but had significantly turned himself around during the last year.

Judge Karen O’Connor imposed a two year sentence which she suspended on strict conditions.

She told Bissett: “What you did to Mr Maher was absolutely disgraceful, horrible and despicable. You are very lucky not to be going back to prison.”

She said it was deplorable and unacceptable behaviour towards a man carrying out charitable work.

Judge O’Connor noted Bissett was at high risk of re-offending and ordered he be brought back before her if he gets into any further trouble.

She confirmed with the prosecution that there were other similar organisations Bissett could avail of and ordered him to stay away from the charity, Mr Maher and Mr Maher’s home.

den Street area is being changed by the “drink fuelled ever increasing noise, nuisance and antisocial behaviour” and that the “introduction of a super-pub selling cheap alcohol into the melting pot does not bear thinking”.

However, the Journal. ie reported that Wetherspoon chairman Tim Martin said: “We are looking forward to developing the site into a fantastic pub and hotel.

“It will be the biggest single investment undertaken by Wetherspoon and will result in our largest hotel alongside a superb pub.

“Our pubs in the

Republic of Ireland are thriving and we are confident that the pub and hotel will be a great asset to Dublin and act as a catalyst for other businesses to invest in the city.”

The pub will be set over two levels and will feature a beer garden.

The company also said its hotel bedrooms will be equipped to accommodate people with disabilities.

A number of historical aspects of the derelict buildings will be retained and restored. T hese include a circular stained glass window which was crafted by Earley & Company.

Sewing up the end of the year in style

BALLYFERMOT College graduating student Siobhan Kelly from Coolock shows off her piece entitled Sew and Save at the Ideate Graduate Design Exhibition held at The Cowshed, Farmleigh, Phoenix Park. The event was an exhibition of graduate work from Fibre Art, Graphic Design and Illustration HND students.

FASTNews

Lucy and Sean Connolly

Appeal for runners to take on marathon for charity EVER wanted to run a Marathon? Make-A-Wish is looking for fitness enthusiasts around the country to take part in the SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon and put themselves through the ultimate challenge to support brave children who are battling life-threatening medical conditions such as cancer, cystic fibrosis and Duchenne muscular dystrophy.

The event, which takes place on Sunday, October 29, will see over 16,000 participants take part. Over the past three years the support of Dublin Marathon participants has resulted in an incredible €71,000 being raised for Make-A-Wish Ireland.

To join the race and help grant even more special wishes, email: mary@makeawish.ie or call: 01 205 2012. You will receive your very own Make-A-Wish charity fundraising race pack. For further information on Make-A-Wish, visit www.makeawish.ie

Lights and action for Future Creators

PICTURED from left are Sinead Burke (academic, writer and blogger), Chloe Pingol (Loreto College, Crumlin) and Keith Meehan (Synge Street, CBS) on the red carpet at The Digital Hub’s Future Creators Graduation & Showcase which took place in NCAD, Thomas Street.

The Future Creators programme works to enhance young people (aged 13 to 16 years old) exposure to STEM subjects and to build their confidence, so they may consider pursuing a career related to digital skills. Picture: Peter Houlihan

Dublin Gazette Newspapers, Second Floor, Heritage House, Dundrum Office Park, Dublin 14 Tel: 01 - 6010240. Email: sales@dublingazette.com news@dublingazette.com web: www.dublingazette.com twitter: @DublinGazette Visit us on Facebook at DublinGazetteNewspapers

29 June 2017 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 5

Damp has TRAGEDY | PADRAIC CARNEY WAS KILLED FOLLOWING COLLISION WITH A CAR to be fixed by council DAMP and condensation in council homes now has to be fixed by Dublin City Council. The local authority will be responsible for damage caused to council property by damp and condensation following a motion which was passed by councillors.

People Before Profit councillor Tina McVeigh tabled the motion and said she is delighted it has passed.

“I believe that as a local authority we have a duty of care to provide housing that is of a standard that vindicates people’s right to housing of an adequate standard. We cannot accept substandard housing,” she said.

Cllr McVeigh said that in 2015, 1,500 complaints to maintenance for issues arising from condensation were reported.

“In 2010 work carried out in Dolphin House revealed the existence of airborne spores that contributed to respiratory illnesses and could in fact prove fatal in the case where pre-existing conditions exist such as immune deficiency illnesses. In fact, many parents in Dolphin House reported excessive school time lost for their children as a result of respiratory illnesses. We have to accept responsibility as a local authority.”

Tributes paid to ‘much loved’ school principal

 EMMA NOLAN and MARK O’BRIEN

TRIBUTES have been pouring in for much-loved principal and “wonderful leader” Pardaic Carney who was tragically killed while cycling last week.

Principal of St Louis Senior Primary School in Rathmines, Mr Carney, (53) was “a true gentleman” who was “widely loved and respected”.

He received serious injuries when his bike collided with a vehicle near his home in Rathfarnham and was taken to Tallaght Hospital before being transferred to Beaumont Hospital, where he was

Padraic Carney

pronounced dead last Tuesday.

Chairperson of the school’s board of management Jake Byrne said: “This is a terrible tragedy for Padraic’s immediate and extended family, his wide circle of friends and the school community in Rathmines.

“We are all deeply saddened by his sudden and untimely death.

“Padraic was a wonderful leader in the school.

His infectious enthusiasm for the job of teaching children and his warm and charming personality made him most popular with pupils, parents, staff and all who came to know him in his job.

“Offers of suppor t have been pouring into the school which has expressed its appreciation…

“We have been in contact with his family, who have requested that their need for privacy at this sad and difficult time be

Volunteers THE Irish Cancer Society Daffodil Centre at Beaumont Hospital is looking for people to volunteer their time to help out at the centre, which is a source of information and advice for anyone affected by or worried about cancer. Daffodil Centre volunteers are asked to commit to four hours (a morning or afternoon) once a week. The centres are generally open 9am-5pm, Monday - Friday. For information contact Deirdre Murphy 01 2310564 or email dmurphy@ irishcancer.ie

Rosalind Lipsett and Rosanna Davison. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

It’s a hive of activity at opening of Urban Decay

BEAUTY fans were out in force for the launch of Ireland’s first standalone Urban Decay store on Grafton Street, where VIP guests were treated to a sneak peek of the store before it opened and were gifted a complimentary lipstick engraved with their names.

The unit, near the Stephen’s Green end of the street, is a veritable explosion of glitter and colour. Guests on the day included Kathryn Thomas, Rosanna Davison, Aoibheann McCaul, Chloe Townsend, Rozalind Lipsett, Kerri Nicole Blanc, Michele McGrath and Alison Canavan as well as Ruth O Neill, while DJ Cici Cavanagh took to the decks on the night.

respected. Our sympathy and thoughts are with Padraic’s family and friends.”

Mr Carney had previously served as principal of Scoil Aine Naofa in Lucan from 2010 until 2014.

In a statement, Scoil Aine Naofa Parents’ Association offered their condolences to Mr Carney’s family, including his wife and three daughters.

“We at the parents’ association offer our deepest condolences to the Carney family at this terribly difficult time,” read the statement on social media.

“We will remember Padraic as a wonderful, friendly, enthusiastic and dedicated principal. May

he rest in peace.”

Locals also paid tribute to Mr Carney.

“The world has lost one of it’s true gentlemen. RIP Padraic you leave a huge hole in the world,” wrote Mary Dwyer.

Valerie Greaney said: “Great principal for Scoil Aine Naofa, lovely man.

May he rest in peace and thinking of his family.”

Mr Carney also worked for Frontline Security on matchdays in the premium level of Croke Park.

Cllr William Lavelle said: “I was shocked and saddened to learn of the sad passing of Mr Padraic Carney, former acting principal of Scoil Aine

Naofa, Esker,” said Cllr Lavelle “In recent times, Padraic served as principal of St Louis SNS in Rathmines.

“Even after he left Lucan I would regularly meet Padraic in Croke Park.

“I wish to express my condolences to Padraic’s family, friends and colleagues.”

Investigating gardai are appealing for witnesses of the collision.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Rathfarnham Garda Station on 01 666 6500, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any garda station.

6 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 29 June 2017

Out and About

Drag queen Maria Damony is pictured with fellow ebay staff celebrating the LGBTQ Pride Festival during a series of events this week at eBay Ireland in Blanchardstown, Dublin. Over €2,000 was raised by eBay employees and by the company’s Diversity & Inclusion initiatives for Irish charity BeLonG To. Picture Andres Poveda

The sun shines bright as revellers take to the streets in celebration

Linders Renault is driving Pride home Mark O’Looney co-global lead for the

with Grand Marshal Moninne Griffith!

Pride BRG

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar stands beside the Bank of Ireland Float on St Stephen’s Green as staff members dressed as brides get some cheek. Pictures: Julien Behal Photography

29 June 2017 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 7

A birds-eye view of Dublin’s LGBTQ Pride 2017 festivities. Pictures: Carl Little And Natalie Dale

2017

LGBTQ Pride Festival is celebrated across Dublin

Shauna Naughton from Festival-goers are all smiles and ready for their selfies

Mastercard

One of the many colourful floats

8 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 29 June 2017

LIFE SAVING SURGERIES | MAGS FORKAN SUFFERS FROM RARE CONNECTIVE TISSUE DISORDER

Dublin woman with rare disease appeals for help  EMMA NOLAN DUBLIN woman Mags Forkan is in need of urgent help to pay for life saving surgeries in the US. Mags, 33, has been in the US since the beginning of April undergoing three life-saving neurosurgeries.

Mags suffers from a rare connective tissue disorder called Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS).

In March, The Gazette spoke to Mags ahead of her surgeries where she explained that her condition has resulted in huge deteriorating neurological symptoms, which are massively affecting her dayto-day life and have dramatically increased her head and neck pain.

Speaking at the time, she said: “There are no EDS specialists in

Ireland who are able to operate on me.

“Because my neck is so unstable, if I turn my head left or right I could have a stroke and cause permanent spinal cord damage – I’m a ticking time-bomb; I can’t even turn my head.”

If the surgeries are a success, Mags has a 95% chance of getting back to normal.

To date, a Go Fund Me page has raised €136,000 to cover the costs of Mag’s surgeries but another €15,000 is needed to reach her overall fundraising target of €150,000.

Mag’s husband Jimmy said: “Initially, she was only expecting to have two surgeries, so the increased financial and emotional strain was very significant.

“Each hospital admission for the surgeries requires a €40,000 deposit up front.

“This money is urgently required to pay off final medical bills and for vital post-surgery care to ensure her surgeries will be successful,” Jimmy said.

Mags and her family say they are completely overwhelmed by the support they have received from friends, family and the general public, but they just need some final assistance to get them over the line.

Mags has been giving regular updates on her condition on her Facebook page, Mags: The girl in the zebra striped pyjamas – my life with EDS. To help pay for her life-saving treatment, visit Mags EDS Surgery Fund on Go Fund Me.

Mags needs urgent help to pay for life saving surgeries in America

Men unwittingly stole €22k worth of necklaces after robbing man’s bag

Fund pledges specialist support for families facing childhood cancer ELLA Weldon (9) is pictured at the launch of the new Cancer Fund for Children on Leeson Street. The fund is pledging specialist support to Irish families facing a devastating diagnosis of childhood cancer. Over time, the Charity will roll out a range of residential and community based services which will also include a therapeutic short break facility located in County Mayo. Picture: Julien Behal

TWO men unwittingly stole necklaces worth €22,000 after taking a bag from a man they attacked and repeatedly kicked, a court has heard.

Jordan Carthy (22) of St Mary’s Road, East Wall and Shane Walsh (18) of Thomas Davis Street, Inchicore, Dublin pleaded guilty to assault causing harm and the robbery of two necklaces worth a combined €22,000 at Dame Lane, Dublin 2 on September 9, 2016.

Garda Frank Johnson told Noel Devitt BL, prosecuting, at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, that the victim, Richard Bergin, turned down Dame Lane in the early hours after a night out.

Mr Bergin was assaulted by three men and his bag was stolen. Within the bag were two necklaces with a combined value of €22,000 which he had borrowed for his aunt from a jewellery shop in which he worked.

Gda Johnson identified both Walsh and Carthy on the CCTV footage.

Both of the accused and another unidentified man kicked the victim while

he was on the ground during the initial assault.

The victim briefly walked away from the men before being knocked back onto the ground by Walsh.

Walsh proceeded to stamp on his face while the other two men again joined in the assault.

“Mr Carthy performed a little dance taunting the victim” Gda Johnson said, which enabled him to identify Carthy in the footage. Walsh took Mr Bergin’s bag as he left the scene.

Mr Bergin suffered a broken nose and bruising to the head. He was unable to recall many details of the assault when interviewed by gardai.

“I genuinely thought I was going to be killed in that lane, I am lucky to be alive today,” said Mr Bergin in a victim impact statement read aloud in court.

Gda Johnson arrested Walsh in Stephen’s Green on the same day. At the time of the arrest Walsh was wearing one of the necklaces, had the stolen bag with him and was crying.

Walsh was also wearing a jacket belonging to Carthy which contin-

ued his social services card. Carthy was arrested three days later in his home.

Both men were intoxicated at the time of the assault and maintained when interviewed by the gardai that they did not remember the incident. They were unaware the necklaces were in the bag before the incident.

During questioning Walsh accepted that Mr Bergin did not attack the men and that they initiated the violence. He said that he “went overboard” regarding the assault on Mr Bergin.

Walsh has eight previous convictions including theft, burglary and a case of assault causing harm which was tried in the Children’s Court.

Carthy has 54 previous convictions including minor assault, theft, possession of an article, possession of drugs and failing to appear. Both men were out on bail at the time of the incident.

Judge Karen O’Connor remanded the two in custody and adjourned the sentencing until July 26 next.

29 June 2017 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 9

10 GAZETTE 29 June 2017

Out and About

A charitable journey IKEA co-workers set out from IKEA Dublin for a charity cycle, to Mullingar and back. Pictures: Alison O’Hanlon

IN LINE with IKEA’s vision of creating a better everyday life for everyone, 26 IKEA co-workers set out from IKEA Dublin on the morning of Saturday, June 24 on a 203km charity cycle, to Mullingar and back. Money raised will go directly to UNICEF and the ISPCC.

29 June 2017 GAZETTE 11

GAZETTE

12 GAZETTE 29 June 2017

DUBLINBUSINESS

Increased employee ownership ‘vital’ IRELAND’s first ever Employee Share Ownership Day has been told that increased employee financial involvement in Irish companies is vital to maintain our competitiveness.

More than 150 delegates attended ESOD17 at Dublin’s Google HQ this week, where they heard Ireland lagged its competitors when it comes to incentivising employee ownership, and that the Government needs to improve their approach by increasing the variety of Revenue-approved employee share schemes, particularly for the SME sector.

RDS is the venue for Web Summit’s MoneyConf 2018 ORGANISERS behind We b S u m m i t t o d ay announced that MoneyConf, Europe’s leading fintech event, will take place at the RDS in Dublin from June 11-13, 2018.

MoneyConf has been hosted in Madrid for two years and has become the leading place for fintech CEOs, investors and startups to meet. It will be hosted at the RDS, the venue where Web Summit grew to become the world’s largest technology event.

Over 2,500 attendees have already registered for 2018 MoneyConf. Attendees will be joined by hundreds of top names in the industry, from CEOs of global financial institutions to the founders of the world’s most disruptive startups.

Some speakers already confirmed include: Yoni Assia, Co-Founder & CEO of eToro; Jaidev Janardana, CEO of Zopa; John Sun, Co-Founder of Avant; and Ismail Ahmed, Founder & CEO of WorldRemit Amid legendary networking opportunities, attendees have access to 2 days of talks, including keynotes, fireside chats, workshops and panel discussions.

Web Summit CEO Paddy Cosgrave said: “We are moving MoneyConf to our hometown of Dublin in 2018. Brexit has the potential to transform Dublin as a financial centre. Major banks, credit card companies and fintech startups have all signed leases in recent months. It’s an incredible moment for Dublin and it’s great to be part of it. The RDS is the perfect venue to grow an event like MoneyConf. After all, our partnership with the RDS put Web Summit on the road to where it is today.”

No such thing as a typical day or client for any recruiter THIS a r t i c l e w a s going to be entitled ‘A Day in the Life of a Recruiter’, but really there is no typical day as a recruitment consultant.

No two days are alike because you are dealing with a resource that is made out of people.

Your clients and candidates are all people with different needs – it’s your job to match the right candidate to the right client.

A recruiter’s job is part human resources, part sales, part marketing and part negotiation. The most important par t of the job though is the ability to understand the sector you’re working with.

Anyone can learn sales techniques, but it takes time to learn the ins and outs of a specific sector.

Have you considered a career in recruitment? Recruitment Plus currently has a vacancy for our hospitality desk. If you have hospitality experience and are interested in recruitment, contact RecruitmentPlus at 01 2788 610, or also see www.recruitmentplus.ie.

Having previous experience in that sector will make you stand out as a top recruiter.

For example, if you’ve wo r ke d i n a h o t e l before, you will have a unique insight into what a hospitality client needs and what a candidate is looking for.

One of the top reasons for job satisfaction in recruitment is the knowledge that you’ve made a difference in a candidate’s life.

There are few things better than knowing someone in in a better paid or more suitable job and you helped to get them there.

Recruiters also love their jobs because they get the opportunity to grow their professional networks and the ability to increase their take home pay each month with commission.

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



GAZETTE

29 June 2017 GAZETTE 13

CITY SPECTACULAR: THE NATION’S FAVOURITE TURKEY CAN’T WAIT FOR THE LAYA HEALTHCARE BASH

Dustin: This year’s City Spectacular will be bigger.. & madder.. than Eurovision!  NICK FITZGERALD DUSTIN the Turkey is the Ambassador of this year’s City Spectacular and he says this year’s bash will be bigger than Eurovision.

More than 250,000 people are expected to flock to Laya Healthcare’s free annual street festival, which runs from July 7-9 in Merrion Square.

The family-friendly festival showcases the best in international street performance, interactive family activities, delicious artisan producers and street food from around the world as well as a pet wellness area with DSPCA. And parents are being warned that the kids will be ruling the roost at the three -day event.

John Morrison, aka Dustin The Turkey told The Gazette: “It’s my biggest achievement since the Eurovision and it’s going to go slightly better than the Eurovision.

“Basically, I’ll be doing my thing that I used to do on the Den and I’ll also be doing a quiz where the adults are going

to take on their children.

“Of course, I know what will happen, the kids are going to win every time and the adults are just going to be brutal.”

“It will be a bit like Donald Trump. See I’m the boss, I’m the ambassador, I can do what I want.

“The parents will be getting custard pies and they’ll be getting ice buckets. The Happy Pear’s Dave and Steve Flynn with Dustin “Bring your doggie, your doggie can They’ll be getting all sorts of things and the kids will be get- get a make-over and they can get a ting prizes. But look, I can’t officially photo. And you can bring your cats and say that if you know what I mean, wink there’ll be a free bed there if there’s any wink, but of course that’s what’s going problems. That would be my favourite to happen. It’s going to be brilliant. And part of it, the DSPCA.” it’s all going to be free, that’s the beauty Family health, fitness and wellbeing of it. will be central to Laya Healthcare’s “It’s for all the family and that’s Greatest Place on Earth area this year. including the four legged members.

Events will include Dustin the Turkey

in this family filled area at the Dublin festival for the Birdbrain quiz where kids can challenge their parents to a battle of knowledge.

R T E ’s F r a n c i e Boylan will co-host and attempt to not let Dustin gobble off too much.

Imaginosity, Dublin’s Children Museum, allows kids to build and create stories and will also be providing a storymaking workshop at an exclusive Imagination Playground.

Just Eat Street - the international street food village - is a feast of food, fun & entertainment running the entire length of Merrion Sq South where visitors can try out over 25 different cuisines from around the world and enjoy music from international musical acts.

Asked how City Spectacular com-

pares to the Eurovision, Dustin said: “It’s a similar sort of madness. You’re going to get every walk of life, it’s going to be brilliant craic. “ I love the Eurovision, the only problem is I didn’t win it. In the Eurovision they made up countries to try and make me not win. This is true, like Azerbaijan, they started inventing places.

“When Johnny Logan won the Eurovision there was Luxembourg, Ireland and The Netherlands, there was three countries and now there’s something like 452.

“I know Europe doesn’t have that many countries. They just wanted to stop me from winning it.

“City Spectacular will have a similar sort of madness. The festival will have stilt walkers, there’s going to be the Happy Pear guys.”

Festival Director Shell Holden added: “We would love everyone - families, friends, couples and pet pooches - to come join in the celebrations and enjoy our FREE festival this July.”

GAZETTE

14 GAZETTE 29 June 2017

DUBLINLIFE

DIARY

THINKPINK! BRING FOUR-LEGGED FRIENDS TO A FUN FAMILY PARK EVENT FINGAL County Council brings the fun and excitement of Pets in the Park to Millennium Park, Blanchardstown, on Sunday July 2.

Suppor ted by the DSPCA, King of Paws and 98Fm, the event will transform Millennium Park into a pet paradise for the day.

The free, family-fun event is a guaranteed great day out for all animal lovers throughout Dublin, involving a range of activities, stalls and entertainment right through the event.

DSPCA King of Paws training team will host dog agility and dog obedience classes, where members of the public are invited to bring their four-legged friends.

A small animal farm will give visitors the opportunity to interact with, and learn about, all kinds of animals, while children’s talks and entertainment will also be featured on the day.

Pet lovers can look forward to a variety of stalls offering fantastic deals on all types of animal accessories, grooming products, novelty items and toys, while the DSPCA will offer micro-

chipping and pet health advice.

For further information, see www.petsinthepark.ie.

STEP LIVELY OVER TO DANCE AT THE NATIONAL GALLERY AS PART of the hugely anticipated programme of events marking the re-opening of the Dargan and Milltown wings of the National Gallery this summer, the acclaimed Liz Roche Company presents the world premiere of Totems, in the exquisite surrounds of the Shaw Room and The Grand Gallery.

THIS DYNAMIC DOGGY DUO ARE LOOKING TO SHARE A HOME: YOURS!

RUGBY star Shane Byrne joined breast cancer survivor Teresa Costello, broadcaster Elaine Crowley, breast cancer survivor Olivia Carpenter and blogger Rosie Connolly at the launch of the Great Pink Run, which takes place on Saturday, Septem-

A group of six dancers will come together with live musicians to respond to these historic gallery spaces with five intimate performances taking place from Thursday, July 6 to Sunday, July 9.

Totems strips Roche’s subtle and poetic choreography back to its purest essence, and will combine intricate movement patterns with live music, creating a thrilling, evocative experience.

Totems will place the living, breathing work of one of Ireland’s most innovative and inspiring choreographers into the

historic gallery space as it re-emerges to the public and arts and culture lovers.

For the full times and listings for the 55-minute show (priced €15/€13 conc), see the National Gallery of Ireland site at www.nationalgallery.ie.

HELP CELEBRATE THE VERY BEST OF THE LIBERTIES SPIRIT T H E 47 t h L i b e r t i e s Festival takes over the heart of Dublin from July 17 to 22 with more than 30 diverse events in 20 venues including parks, pubs, churches and heritage buildings in celebration of the area’s

ber 9 in the Phoenix Park. Thousands are expected at the Dublin run, which will help fundraise for and raise awareness of Breast Cancer Ireland’s pioneering research and awareness programmes around the country. Picture: Leon Farrell/Photocall Ireland

vibrant character.

This year’s mostly free programme of events is the most expansive yet, even offering an opportunity to interact with the working horses of the Liberties, and many other free, familyfriendly events.

Guaranteed to be highlights of the summer arts calendar are Night at the Opera, featuring Opera in the Open against the stunning backdrop of St Audoen’s Church on Friday, July 21; Cirque de Comedie in the Guinness Storehouse, featuring drag duo Queens of Pop; comedic songstress Tere-

sa Livingston; Azaria Starfire; and aerial contortionist Spinal Gap on Saturday, July 22.

Tickets for Night at the Opera and Cirque de Comedie are on sale now via libertiesfestival. ie.

Tr a d i t i o n a l c o m munity favourites such as the Garda Vs Street Traders football match returns for its 27th year; the Blue Rinse Ball, and the Older Bowls competition also return in a packed programme that showcases the spirit of the area.

For the full festival programme, see www. libertiesfestival.ie.

OUR Dogs of the Week looking for their #SpecialSomeone* are the amazing Tess and Leela, which need to find a home as a pair. Tess and Leela are inseparable, and are looking for a home together. Tess is a six-year-old female crossbreed, and Leela is a five-year-old Boxer.

Tess is very active and would enjoy living with an active family to bring her on lovely long walks and, if you’re a runner, she will run beautifully beside you. Tess has a fabulous coat and loves to be brushed.

Leela has a little heart murmur, which slows her down a bit, but she is still quite active. (Don’t worry – we will help you take care of her medical needs; we just need you to spoil her and give her all the attention she deserves.) They are both great with children, but we’d suggest sturdy children over five years of age as they can be a little over-excitable at times!

If you think you can offer this amazing pair, contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off Exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found at www.dogstrust. ie. You can also find them on Facebook, at www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline, or on Twitter @DogsTrust_IE.

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

29 June 2017 GAZETTE 15

SHELBOURNE PARK LAUNCHES LIVE RACING FOUR NIGHTS PER WEEK SHELBOURNE PARK, Ireland’s premier greyhound racing stadium has moved to four nights racing per week, making it an ideal venue for a thrilling night out. The stadium will host racing every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday night to meet the growing Dublin market.

Getting to the stadium has never been easier with a complimentary return shuttle bus by Dublin Coach that leaves Burgh Quay at 7PM every Friday and Saturday night which will prove popular with after work punters and tourists.

Patrick Flynn, General Manager at Shelbourne Park added “I look forward to welcoming our patrons to Shelbourne Park as we will now be offering live racing four nights a week. The shuttle bus would not be possible were it not for our successful partnership with Dublin Coach which we will seek to build on into the future.”

MAKING A NIGHT OF IT If you are looking to make a night of it, the smart punter will pre-book online to take advantage of the great value offers of admission and fine dining combined. Mid-week restaurant bookings start at €19.50 pp while group packages can include admission, finger food and Tote vouchers.

A restaurant booking brings the extra offering of Tote wagering at your table as you watch the racing from the fantastic views of the Grandstand restaurant. The Tote offers simple wagering

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

‘I look forward to welcoming our patrons to Shelbourne Park as we will now be offering live racing four nights a week. The shuttle bus would not be possible were it not for our successful partnership with Dublin Coach which we will seek to build on into the future’

�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������

Patrick Flynn, General Manager

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

options from as little as €1 with jackpots of up to €1,000.

Shelbourne Park will be available throughout the summer for private events in the outdoor covered BBQ area with a private bar. Events such as

family celebrations can also be held in the 400 seater grandstand restaurant or in the seven corporate suites that offer panoramic views of the track.

In recent years, charities and sports clubs have held successful fundraising nights which can gen-

erate thousands through tickets sales, restaurant packages and sponsorship for worthy causes.

Shelbourne Park will be host to some of the best known classics over the coming months including: the BoylesSports Irish Champion Stakes starting on 29 July, the Dublin Coach Puppy Derby starting 22 September and the BoylesSports Irish Greyhound Derby starting on 17 August, with the final on September 23.

Judging by the numbers attending each week, the extended racing at Shelbourne Park will become a firm favourite in the capital city.

Great value restaurant bookings can be made online at www.gogreyhoundracing.ie or by phoning 1890 269 969.

29 June 2017 GAZETTE 17

DUBLINLIFE

N O S ’ T A H W

E D I U G S T N E EV with JAMES HENDICOTT

Trinity Summer Gig Series

A new series of concerts comes to life at Trinity College, with Gregory Porter opening on July 6. He’ll be followed by appearances from Pixies, Two Door Cinema Club, Alt-J, Bell X1 and James Vincent McMorrow in the illustrious city-centre surrounds..

Late blooming Flowers MUSIC

ONE OF DUBLIN’S BEST LOVED BANDS ON FAMILY, MALI AND GOING VIRAL BEFORE THE

INTERNET EXISTED

MCM Comic Com

The RDS hosts the latest round of the annual, costume-laden event for comic fans. Hosted over the weekend of July 1 and 2, the event is run by MCM, the company currently bringing the Comic Con concept to life around the UK and Ireland, with some events topping 100,000 visitors.

MCM’S COMIC CON HITS THE

RDS

United Against Racism Solidarity Picnic

A family-friendly event with a BBQ in Phoenix Park aims to discuss issues around racism and the direct provision system.

United Against Racism will reveal specific details via their website ahead of the midday meeting on July 3.

The Coronas

Having just released their number one album ‘Trust The Wire’, Danny O’Reilly and co return to the stage at Kilmainham Hospital for their biggest ever headline show. In our recent interview, they promised on-stage fireworks.

The Sad and Beautiful World of Sparklehorse

Whelan’s dedicates a Sunday night in the main venue to this heart-wrenching documentary about the tragic indie band, together with an hour long cover performance of their greatest hits. One for an emotive Sunday night.

Macy Gray

The distinctive vocals of the American R&B legend are best known for how they’re delivered on the stunning hit single ‘I Try’, but Gray’s genre-spanning music has won her broad acclaim outside of the pop world, too. She appears at the National Concert Hall, July 2.

Chapelizod Community Festival

The summer party gets underway down near Phoenix Park, with a week of entertainment ranging from local musicians and comedy to kids and sporting events. The festival runs from July 2 to July 9, and aims to bring the area together.

Stars and Stripes Forever

The American national day gets a bold celebration in St Patrick’s Cathedral, where all things American-music themed are celebrated in a free one-off organ concert, expected to touch on film sounds from Indiana Jones to Star Wars. July 4, naturally.

New album of the week

TLC - TLC. Forever associated amongst those of us of a certain vintage with ‘Pure Shores’ and it’s perfect soundtracking of ‘The Beach’, TLC remain on the comeback trail with the release of their first album since 2013, bought out via their new ‘852 Muziq’ label.

GAZETTE GAZETTE

GAZETTE GAZETTE

16 GAZETTE 29 June 2017

 JAMES HENDICOTT TO THE UNINITIATED, it seems like Hothouse Flowers have been on the wind-down for quite sometime.

Despite regular shows, there hasn’t been an album released formally in well over a decade.

The band that emerged from Colaiste Eoin in Booterstown so powerfully that they never had to get real jobs after school might appear to have gone a little quiet. Not for long.

“What’s going on with us is a bit like those people who starting tiling a bathroom in 2002 and still haven’t finished,” Fiachna O’Braonain explains.

“There hasn’t been an album in ten years, yet it feels like we haven’t stopped gigging. We all have very different lives outside the band. I have three children under five. It’s hard to get out of the house.”

“I’ve been doing different projects with different people,” Liam O’Maonlai adds. “I think it was about three years ago we got invited to play in Windmill Lane for Culture Night. In payment for that we got eight days studio time. We didn’t actually avail of it until a year ago. Those eight days really facilitated us.

“Often you can get these gigs where you have to put a lot of money in to set things up, but they wanted us to make a record there.

“And we did, we made a record. We narrowed it down to eleven pieces of music. Maybe towards the end of the summer, maybe earlier, it’ll be here. There’s just a couple of little things to address.”

“There is already an album called ‘Let’s Do This Thing’. It’s on the website but nowhere else. I had a listen to it and decided it didn’t sound quite as good as the rough mixes, so we’ll be putting it out again.

“Everyone who already bought it will get it a sec-

ond time for free, but they’ll be getting anotherversion, another part of the project.”

To many, it must have felt like that album would never arrive.

“Pete [O’Toole]’s return to the band was the missing link in terms of making a record,” O’Maonlai explains of the bassist’s return to the band in 2015 after an eleven year absence. “He’s a musical tour de force.”

Hothouse Flowers date back to shared, musicobsessed 70s school days in south Dublin, a time in which O’Maonlai played in a band alongside My Bloody Valentine’s Kevin Shields, having pushed through his first forays into music slightly against the will of his parents.

“We went viral before the internet,” he recalls. “We were having a ball coming in every day and busking in Dublin. People were getting obsessed with record deals back then, with U2 doing so well. You could tell

people’s heads were getting turned.”

“I only recently heard that Chris Blackwell [the key Island Records man who worked with U2 and The Cranberries] said in interview that his only regret is not signing us. That would have been a great deal. But we were cocksure of ourselves back then. We were bringing houses down, we’d been playing live since we were nine or ten years old in different bands. If you’d try to invent it, you couldn’t have.”

More recently, Hothouse Flowers have been very much about the live outings, but their sound has also been adapted by some impressively outthere experiences exploring other aspects of music.

While O’Braonain has leaned more on family life, O’Maonlai has been seriously exotic in his outlook.

“Africa’s one of the seedbeds of rock and roll,” O’Maonlai says of his exploration of music in Mali.

“The 6/8 rhythm is all over Irish music as well as rock

and roll. It’s such a rich tapestry. It’s tough seeing these countries almost being censored from the world when there’s so much richness in them.”

“In Mali, you meet somebody and they’ll teach you something. I met a guitarist nearTimbuktu, and you’d literally sit next to him and he’d teach you these mad Malian riffs. It was amazing, there’s always that formula between people. The one with something to give and the one with something to receive.”

O’Braonain, who was living in France a few years ago, worked with Belinda Carlisle on her pronunciation for an entire French language album, and ended up dueting with the singer “kind of by accident. I was a placeholder for other singers, but she ended up using my vocal,” he explains.

The band also got involved in the Apollo House movement, after Glen Hansard got in touch.

“He told us to keep our ears to the ground; he called

together mates to be the musical face of the thing. Eyes were on it because there’s a relationship to music, and music’s an in-between territory that doesn’t label anyone. Music is not capitalist, or black, or white,” O’Maonlai says. “Musicians can be involved in very important things just by being present sometimes. It’s a very elemental force.

As for the future? “I think we’d stop if we weren’t enjoying it.” O’Braonain says.

“We still have that love for finding the heart of a room. It doesn’t really matter which room.

“A tough room can bring out great music. When we went out to play, we never did not knowwhat we were going to do. Our career has hinged on that, on those days. We’ll keep going as long as it’s still there.”

Hothouse Flowers bring their powerful live show to Live at Leopardstown on July 13.

GAZETTE

18 GAZETTE 29 June 2017

DUBLINLIFE

Mules Rule!

H&M flat slider mules €39.99

 EMMA NOLAN Style Editor

ONE shoe trend is dominating this season and that’s the mule.

This oft forgotten style represents a certain aloofness that can’t be got from other summer sandals.

While it takes a certain type of person to pull off high heeled mules, their lower heeled and flat counter parts are the ideal summer shoe.

Effortlessly elegant, there’s something incredibly feminine about ‘clip-clopping’ around in a pair of mules and the high street has every shape, size, colour and fabric available.

Dune London Meera €125

littlewoodsireland V by Very Floral tapestry mule €41

Topshop NOVEL square toe mules €77

A new home for Bow & Pearl  EMMA NOLAN, Style Editor

DUBLIN boutique Bow & Pearl has moved to Rathmines.

Now taking up residence in the Swan Centre, the brand is going in an “edgier direction” after seven successful years in business.

“We’ll be offering customers unique, high end yet affordable items and we hope they enjoy the selection,” owner Bronagh

O’Sullivan said.

The brand caters for the fashion conscious customer, with Bronagh focusing on buying high-end, unique styles available at a realistic price-tag.

“The store itself has turned out beautifully, we worked with creative director and retail expert Lara

Bronagh O’Sullivan

Curry on the aesthetic of the space and we can’t wait for customers to come in and enjoy the shopping experience,” Bronagh added.

The newly located Bow & Pearl can be found in unit 33 in the Swan Centre, Rathmines, Dublin 6. Their latest collection is also available on www.bowandpearl.com

29 June 2017 GAZETTE 19

New Look pastel blue floral brocade mules €29.99

Ne w lea Loo the r h k ros e e €3 eled m gold 9.9 9 ules

H&M tan ruffle mules €19.99

GAZETTE

STYLE

GAZETTE

20 GAZETTE 29 June 2017

DUBLINLIFE

FOOD&DRINK

CITY CENTRE: THE GAZETTE DROPS IN TO CHECK OUT 98FM’S ‘BEST BAR’ WINNER

We confess – this bar is pretty great!  NICK FITZGERALD

THE Confession Box at No 88, Marlborough Street has scooped the title of Dublin’s Best Bar for the second year running, coming out tops in 98FM’s Best of Dublin search.

Proud owners Pauline and Monica Keenan will have owned the bar for seven years by the end of July. The award-winning sisters know Dublin city very well, having worked here for 30 years.

Hailing from The Liberties, the Keenans have now claimed four awards from 98FM – in 2014 and 2015, they also snapped up Dublin’s Best Pint awards.

On winning for the fourth time running, Monica said: “The reason we’ve won is because of our customers, the loyalty we have with them and

the craic we have together!

“It’s like a home from home. It’s real friendly here, with great pint of Guinness.”

One of the smallest pubs across Dublin, The Confession Box sits in the shadow of the Pro-Cathedral – a place which had a big impact on the bar.

Original name During the 1919-1921 War of Independence, the public house was known to locals as The Maid of Erin. At the time, rebel Volunteers, under the leadership of Michael Collins, would often occupy the pub and use it as a refuge.

Sympathetic priests from the Pro-Cathedral established a holding in The Confession Box to listen to the rebels’ confessions, and also provide communion.

Their actions, along

with the size of the pub and its closeness to the Pro-Cathedral, led to The Maid of Erin being nicknamed The Confession Box, as we now know it.

Today, the rebels are long gone, replaced by the sight of three awards placed proudly against the glass of the bar’s frontfacing window. As you step in, you immediately encounter a friendly and welcoming atmosphere.

Monica told T he Gazette: “Half of them [the customers] wouldn’t know each other, but that’s what it’s like here – once one starts talking, they all start talking! It’s always like that.”

She added: “There’s great enter tainment.

There’s live music all the time and everyone gets on with each other. You could have an 80-year-old sitting with an 18-year-old and they’d still have things

There’s a lot of history inside The Confession Box – not to mention one of the best pints in Dublin

in common; everyone has something in common.”

Locals come from all over the world to visit – yes, locals, usually calling in a few times per year.

People come back from Florida, various parts of America, and Sweden, to name but a few places, actively staying in touch with Pauline and Monica by sending them postcards and emails, even sending presents.

Pauline modestly said: “It’s a typical Irish pub

with friendly banter, it’s what Dublin’s really about – people mixing and chatting and talking, telling their stories; listening, laughing and joking, being there for each other at some stage.

Rallies together “There’s always someone down there that’s less fortunate than yourself, so when that happens everyone rallies together.”

Monica said: “One particular time, a customer of

ours passed away and his daughter hadn’t got the money [for his funeral]. “ Eve r y o n e r a l l i e d around like a community, got the money to bury him, got the money to lay him to rest because everyone gets on and it’s like a big community.”

Micheal O’Nuallain, brother of famous Irish writer Flann O’Brien, frequently graced The Confession Box with his presence. The jack-of-alltrades had one unusual

request: that the staff would heat up his pint of Guinness to room temperature.

Today, punters can enjoy live music every Thursday, Friday and Saturday, including on Bank Holiday Mondays.

The Confession Box is open from MondayThursday from 11am to 11:30pm; Friday and Saturday from 11am to 1:30am, and on Sunday from 11am to 11:30pm; telephone 01 874 7339.

Neven Maguire cooks up a storm with Dunnes Stores ONE of Ireland’s best loved chefs and Brand

The Simply Better collection is one of the

said: “Through our Simply Better Collection,

Ambassador for Dunnes Stores’ Simply Bet-

most successful food brands in Ireland, with

we want people to have the best ingredients

ter Collection, Neven Maguire, launched a new

over 250 food awards since it was established

to cook restaurant quality food at home. The

magazine COOK with Neven Maguire, devel-

in 2013. At present there are 350 products

Summer edition of COOK with Neven Maguire

oped to nurture people’s passion for cooking

in the collection with plans to introduce 100

will make this even easier, with a magazine

at home with easy to follow recipes devised

new and exciting products this year. All of the

packed full of mouthwatering dishes that

exclusively by Neven for Simply Better.

products are chosen for their provenance,

even the most culinary challenged could

many from small producers, and all with a

master!”

As well as an abundance of delicious Pictured at the launch is Dermot Murphy, Simply Better

recipes, the magazine will feature the Simply

nod to the past, where food was made “in the

brand manager, Neven Maguire and Daragh Lawles,

Better ‘Food Heroes’ - stories of some of the

right way”.

Simply Better marketing and design brand manager.

food producers involved in bringing the best

Picture Andres Poveda

quality food to homes across Ireland.

Speaking about COOK with Neven, Diarmuid Murphy, Simply Better brand manager

The magazine which will be available in Dunnes Stores nationwide and online, was launched in Dunnes Stores, Swan Shopping Centre, Rathmines.

DUBLINLIFE

TRAVEL

GAZETTE

GAZETTE

29 June 2017 GAZETTE 21

STAYCATIONS: WHY JET OUT WHEN YOU CAN LIVE THE HIGH LIFE RIGHT HERE IN IRELAND

HaveaRadtimebythebanksof theShannoninancientAthlone PACK up the family for a fun-filled summer break at the newly refurbished Radisson Blu Hotel,Athlone.

Enjoy a family break for two adults and two kids including breakfast on both mornings, a delicious dinner on the evening of your choice in Element’s Bistro and a choice of either a family visit to Glendeer Pet Farm or a family pass to Athlone Castle so you can make the most of the summer sun.

The kids will be kept more than

happy with plenty of activities in the hotel’s Kids Camp while mum and dad can explore the maritime town of Athlone, fit in some exercise in Synergy Health & Leisure Club or simply enjoy a drink in the Quayside Bar & Lounge or out on the terrace overlooking Athlone Marina.

The summer family break packages are available from €255 so trade in the daily grind for some leisure time at Radisson Blu Hotel, Athlone. Call 090 644 2600 to book.

EIRE GO BREAK Luxury on Ice

WHATEVER your perfect Wild Atlantic Way break is, the sumptuous Ice House in north Mayo is the perfect base.

Overlooking the River Moy and the woodlands beyond, the Ice House is in the perfect location to wrap yourself in the wilderness of the West Coast of Ireland, all the while enjoying the fantastic food, soothing spa, bubbling hot tubs and

DON’T fancy queuing at check-in desks and waiting for bags for hours on end? Well there’s no need, with beautiful scenery and wonderful accommodation on offer right here at home. Treat yourself, your better half, or the entire family to a staycation in the most wonderful place on earth – our own little island of Ireland.

super service that this award winning boutique hotel offers.

With a two night break starting from €284 per person sharing including dinner on one evening, the Ice House can also book their guests in with Rachel’s Irish Adventures (www. rachelsirishadventures. com)for hiking, tours, watersports and other adventures.

Faithlegg House Hotel has it all MAKE a change this summer and embrace the great outdoors from the picturesque haven of Faithlegg House Hotel and Golf Resort in Co Waterford.

The hotel’s central location makes it the ideal base to discover the coastal county’s hidden gems. Explore the ancient east through the Waterford Greenway, a spectacular 46km off-road cycling trail along an old railway line between Waterford and Dungarvan.

And after a long day exploring, head back to Faithlegg, slip down to the Estuary Spa for a treatment, a dip in the jacuzzi or retreat to a cosy armchair in the Aylward Lounge.

That evening savour a delicious meal in the award winning Roseville Rooms Restaurant prepared by head chef Jenny Flynn using the finest ingredients from local producers you may have passed on your cycle!

The Get and Go Greenway package at Faithlegg House Hotel is available from €179 per person sharing and includes a two-night stay in luxurious accommodation, breakfast on both mornings and dinner on the night of your choice in the Roseville Rooms Restaurant. To book, call 051 382000 orvisit www.faithlegg.com.

GAZETTE

22 GAZETTE 29 June 2017

DUBLINLIFE

FASTNews

Taking the crew to

Van drivers have extra choices with the crew cab offers that allow for comfort and safety for all passengers along with a decent carrying load area, as MICHAEL MORONEY discovered when he loaded up the Renault Trafic crew cab for a lengthy test run.

The new larger Polo claims to bring the future to the compact car class with more space and more technology as standard

Volkswagen’s Sixth generation bigger Polo is on the way VOLKSWAGEN has a new sixth generation car on the way, following the model success which has clocked up more than 14 million units sold. One of the world’s best selling compact cars is undergoing an entirely new exterior design change.

The new model will have a longer wheelbase for more comfort, and more interior space as well as a bigger and 25% bigger boot. The interior will be more spacious and comes with a new cockpit layout structured for the digital world. The car will be offered with front assist, blind spot detection, adaptive cruise control and LED headlights like in the Golf class.

There will be a choice of efficient TSI (petrol), TGI (natural gas) and TDI (diesel) engines in the new Polo.

The car will be offered with an array of assistance systems which previously was only familiar in larger Volkswagen cars.

Most drivers under-prepared after passing driving test NEW research by Liberty Insurance shows that 61%

RENAULT offers van drivers a wide choice in the mid-range sector vans based around its popular Trafic van. For those van drivers who need the flexibility to combine load space with people carrying capacity, the crew cab van ensures that all passengers are safe and secure.

When it comes to describing the new generation of Renault Trafic crew cab, you can also add passenger comfort and space.

From a driver’s point of view crew cab vans like the Renault Trafic crew cab, no longer present a daunting driving prospect because there is scope to add fittings that help with manoeuvrability and ease of driving.

That was my experience when I recently took the long wheelbase version of the Renault Trafic crew cab for a

thankfully, those days are gone for van drivers.

The high seating posiSPECIFICATIONS tion in the Renault Trafic Enginesize (litre) 1.6

crew cab gives the driver Engine power (hp) 145 and passengers great road visibility. Entry to the van Engine Torque(Nm) 340 could be helped with some 0 – 100km/hr (seconds) 10.2 grab handles, which were Economy (km/litre) 16 an obvious omission, as

(6.3/100km or 45mpg) the entry height requires Fuel Tank Capacity (litres) 80 a significant lift compared AdBlue Capacity (litres) 20 with a car or SUV. Setting up for comfort CO2 emissions(g/km) 164 after that was easy, with Road Tax Band Commercial €333 great seat adjustment Main Service 30,000km/24 months and the added comfort of Towing rating(kg) 2,000 driver armrests. The rear Warranty 5 years (200,000km) passengers were not forPayload (kg) 1,040 gotten and they too were provided with armrest, Entry Price €29,495 full seatbelts and for those lengthy 1,160km test run. pay their way. Noise lev- with family transport Once behind the wheel els are better controlled needs, there are two ISOthe comfortable seating than in the past, so that fix couplings for reliable position in modern vans with a crew on board, child seat fitting. you can actually hold a became obvious.

The van is a working Modern vans like the conversation. That might area for many users – it Renault Trafic crew cab seem a strange remark, combines the transport are built for comfort, for but vans of old were more role with that of a worklengthy days behind the functional than comfort- shop and mobile office. wheel, as vans have to able or sound proof and, There needs to be lot of

Renault Trafic dCi 145 Crew Cab

small item storage as well as the flexibility to convert for larger items. Here the Renault Trafic crew cab excels with deep side door storage, under-seat storage was well as lots of room to deter drivers from filling the windscreen area.

Out on the road the Renault Trafic crew cab drives with confidence as its twin-turbo diesel 1.6litre engine pumps out 145bhp of power. That was more than adequate for me with a partial load and some passengers.

That engine size may look small, while it delivers 340Nm of torque enough to allow it to tow a two tonne load, as well.

This modern design van engine comes with Stop & Start technology and the new regenerative braking system, called Energy Smart Management. Renault claims that this helps the Trafic to

of drivers feel under-prepared for the road even after passing their practical test. The research has also shown that half of all drivers under 30 do not feel confident when driving in certain places or performing particular manoeuvres, like reverse parallel parking and using major roundabouts with multiple exits. Only two-in-five of all drivers claim to be ‘very confident’ in these areas.

In addition to a lack of confidence in their own ability, seven-in-10 drivers think that Irish roads are more hazardous than they were a decade ago. This opinion is higher among females (81%), older drivers aged 55-64 (76%) and residents of Connacht/Ulster (79%).

Deirdre Ashe, director of Personal Lines at Liberty Insurance, said: “In many ways, this isn’t entirely surprising. Our roads are busier than ever before, with more distractions for drivers, like smart phones. Adding to the danger is the huge number of uninsured private vehicles on Irish roads, estimated by the Motor Insurance Bureau of Ireland (MIBI) to be over 151,000.

“In light of these findings, we all as drivers have a duty in taking greater personal responsibility for our actions on the road,” she said. “In short, our findings demonstrate the importance of the ongoing collaboration between government and industry in the promotion of safer driving, particularly among younger drivers and in regional areas with less developed infrastructure.”

Colour campaign for Jeep 172 offers JEEP is now offering the option of any colour shade in a new complimentary colour offer available on the range of SUV’s from Jeep Renegade to the Grand Cherokee for 172 registrations. In addition, they are offering three years’ free servicing, competitive financing and upgrade offers designed to appeal to anyone looking for a new 172 model.

Jeep’s most compact model, the Renegade, is available from €22,950 and with PCP or HP finance offers.

The Jeep brand is always distinctive, and the wide stance 4x4’s come with exceptional glass-to- wheel proportions. The Jeep range is immediately recognisable as a Jeep thanks to characteristic traditional design cues, such as the seven-slot grille and Jeep has included a host of colour options for new 172 Jeep orders and the new Jeep Compass is on the way for later this year the trapezoidal wheel arches.

29 June 2017 GAZETTE 23

GAZETTE

MOTORING

the Trafic in comfort and style

The Renault Trafic crew cab van has an impressive specification that blends practical load space with driver and passenger comfort for the full crew or family. Entry prices start at €29,495.

achieve fuel economy of up to 16 (6.3/100km or 45mpg).

During my test drive I

was typically about 30% off that rated figure, while the overall performance still gave me an impres-

sive range of 945km on a full diesel tank. That to me is economical driving performance for a big van

with passenger and load capacity.

Renault drivers have the option of using the

Eco system by pressing a dash mounted button for enhanced economy. I noted the economy difference when put to the test.

I found it a useful feature that will save fuel on longer runs, while it was difficult to be exact on the level of fuel saving.

The Renault Trafic crew cab uses the AdBlue fuel system to give lower CO2 and NOx levels, essentially a cleaner exhaust.

Entry prices for the shorter Renault Trafic crew cab van start at €29,495 and that’s about €6,000 more than the standard van. The advantages of the extra seats to allow six to travel in comfort and safety are obvious when you have to carry people as well as gear.

The dash design on the Renault Trafic crew cab is modern and car-like with easy access controls and a steering wheel that’s comfortable to use and not too big and (below) the side doors slide open wide on the long wheelbase to give great second row seat access

GAZETTE

24 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 29 June 2017

DUBLINLIFE ReelReviews

BABY DRIVER

Fast-paced thrills galore ANSEL Elgort makes a great impression in Baby Driver (Cert 15A, 113 mins) – not easy to do, when the rest of the film is such a blast. He’s great as the titular getaway driver caught in an increasingly murky job, but the film itself is pretty captivating, with some top-notch visuals and its excellent soundtrack making it one of most engaging films of the summer. Worth racing over to catch.

WONDER WOMAN

A welcome introduction

Hopefully, the last one There’s no denying that the film can look pretty spectacular, with some top-notch special effects and often great cinematography. However, its eye-popping visuals aside, there’s little to recommend or even like here, with its turgid plot, awkward sexism and generally dire script likely to bore and annoy in equal measure.

 SHANE DILLON WHAT can you say about this latest Transformers film (Transformers: The Last Knight; Cert 12A, 150 mins) which hasn’t already been said about all of its predecessors?

When you get into the nuts and bolts of it, T5 – the fifth in the interminable series – shifts things around a bit, but in essence it’s just a variation on the Transformers theme.

Were it not for the addition of Anthony Hopkins delivering key exposition dumps (slumming it big-time after his charismatic turn in TV’s superb Westworld) and an almost Monty Pythonian sledgehammering of King Arthur into the franchise’s lore, you’d be hardpressed to spot the difference between this and director Michael Bay’s previous Transformer films.

This time round, Bay throws the Trans-

former multiverse wide open, lobbing in a plot McGuffin to send the film careening along from spectacle to spectacle.

Turns out that the Transformers have been fighting their interminable war for a very long time, with Merry Olde Englande – courtesy of King Arfurr and pals – also playing a key role in their age-old battle of the planets.

That McGuffin I just mentioned?

Some ancient Transformer high-tech gadgetry (in effect, a magic staff) which could change the fate of the Transformer civil war in our time – but which proved very handy back then when given to Arthur, and his bumbling Merlin, to get their act together and forge their legend.

Flash forward to today, and we return to Cade Yeager (a scruffy and often confused-looking Mark Wahlberg) as the regular joe (and awesome all-American-hero) mechanic-inventor

once again at the centre of everything.

After decimating Chicago, the Transformers are hiding out at Yeager’s junkyard, as they’re now regarded as dangerous and illegal aliens by the powers that be. Still, they’re continuing to fight against the evil Decepticon robots, and keep trying to protect Earth.

Out of nowhere, said high-tech but hidden staff is now the key to winning the Transformers war (because, y’know, plot McGuffin), and so the race is on to find it, with twists and scraps a-plenty along the way.

There’s more to the plot than that, of course – much, much more, with the film’s bum-numbing run time dragging things on and on and on – but if you’re looking for an engrossing plot in a Transformers tale, brother, this ain’t the film for you.

Instead, director Bay has just followed his usual shtick, creating anoth-

er film that couldn’t be anything but a Transformers tale, with everything from admittedly terrific special effects to casual sexism, product placements and endless slo-mo shots and explosions to get through.

As such, as a two hour-plus FX reel, Transformers rocks! But as an actual film with a compelling plot, a strong narrative, likeable characters, sharp dialogue or cohesive editing, however ... not so much.

Ultimately it’s almost impossible to score a Transformers tale like this – people know they’re truly terrible films, but will still go to see it in their droves.

So, I’ll give it one mark for Tony Hopkins, one for some terrific special effects, one for its mildly entertaining King Arthur stuff, and one for the merciful arrival of the end credits. That gives us .. 4/10

WONDER Woman (Cert 12A, 141 mins) is still wowing on the big screen in her first big-budget blockbuster. The film gets a few things wrong, with some stodgy pacing making the first act drag on, but Gal Gadot is pretty great as the titular Amazonian princess, bringing some understated wit, empathy and the requisite physical prowess to the role. Look out for a Wonder-ful sequel!

CARDBOARD GANGSTERS Unfolding Dublin drama

CARDBOARD Gangsters (Cert 18, 92 mins) definitely impresses with a slice of Irish life you won’t see in any glossy tourism ads.

The gritty film could have been set in half a dozen deprived Dublin places, not just Darndale. Lead John Connors impresses, as a group of young thugs try to move up the criminal ladder. It’s fairly grim stuff, but it’s well made, and a decent modern Irish film.

29 June 2017 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

CINEMA

Sophie Glligan, Amelia Devlin, Loriane Keane and Romy Devlin

Ryan O’Dwyer Dublin GAA hurler is pictured with family Oisin, Lucy and wife Cliona. Pictures: Andres Poveda Baz Ashmawy with daughters Mahy and

Felix, Arlo and Casper Quick from

Hanna

Ringsend

Three times the Despicable charm T

HE Universal Pictures Irish premiere screening of Despicable Me 3 was held at the Savoy Cinema at the weekend, much to the delight of Minion fans, young and old. Steve Carell brings Gru back to life for the third epic delight full of super villians, lots of bubble gum, a priceless diamond and maybe even a long lost twin brother...?

Twins Leo and Lucy Olivia Ruberton, Lucy and Abbie Donnelly from Finglas

Mellon from Sandyford

Twins Ben and Nahan Coyle from Rathfarnham

Conor Stynes from Lucan

26 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 29 June 2017

DUBLIN CITYCLASSIFIEDS HOME IMPROVEMENTS

WINDOWS

PAINTING

RECRUITMENT

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING TELE-SALES FREELANCE TELE-SALES PERSON REQUIRED

For more information or to apply please email Emer at:

DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPER HAVE OVER 300,000* READERS EACH WEEK *Publishers Statement

ewilson@dublingazette.com

Serving 7 thriving communities of suburban Dublin. For up to date news follow us on Twitter @DublinGazette

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS CALL 01 60 10 240

GOT A STORY? Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 and SELECT OPTION 2 email news@dublingazette.com



FOLLOW US TODAY ON OUR SOCIAL NETWORK

29 June 2017 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 27

DUBLIN CITYCLASSIFIEDS

LOCALMATTERS SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

ADVERTISE WITH THE GAZET TE CALL 60 10 240

GAZETTE

28 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 29 June 2017

SPORT

FastSport GYMNASTICS SUMMER CAMPS: OLYMPIAN Gymnastics’ recreational summer camps will get underway next week for the first of seven weeks which give gymnasts a chance to progress their gymnastics in a fun and encouraging environment over a one week period.

The camps will take place at Templeogue College St. Colmcille’s Community School, Knocklyon and Alexandra College, Milltown, running from 9.30am to 2.30pm daily.

The cost of the camps are €100 for a five-day Camp while there is a €10 sibling/ additional camp discount.

Week one of the camps runs from Monday, July 3 to Friday, July 7 with further camps beginning on July 10, 17, 24, 31 and August 7 and 14.

To register your child for Summer Camps, log on to www.olympiangymnastics.com with online registration open now.

For further queries or information. contact info@olympiangymnastics.com or 086 082 5737.

BOXING: BALLYFERMOT MAN BEATS CRUISE TO CLAIM MIDDLEWEIGHT BELT

Cool Hand Keeler takes Irish title by narrowest margin

 KARL GRAHAM sport@dublingazette.com

LUKE Keeler shrugged off a broken hand to become the new Irish middleweight champion at the National Boxing Stadium in Dublin on Saturday night after securing a narrow one point win over Darren Cruise.

The 30-year-old from Ballyfermot and Roscommon’s Cruise were competing in the headline fight of Red Corner’s ‘For Honour and Pride’ card as both looked to leave the ring with the previously vacant title wrapped around their waist.

The fight got off to a cagey start but both fighters managed to land a big shot during the opening exchanges. Keeler was looking busier in the ring but Cruise was picking his punches well.

Round two saw Keeler take a front step in the fight but Cruise hit back at the Dubliner during the third.

“Cool Hand” Keeler dominated the fourth round with some good work to his opponent’s body but the Roscrea man hit back in the next round as he pushed the Ballyfermot

Luke Keeler piles on the punishment on Darren Cruise. Picture: Laszlo Geczo

man onto the ropes.

The damage to Keeler’s right hand became noticeable during the sixth as he held back on launching hooks in favour of more jab work. Cruise took advantage to make a good start but Keeler eventually got back into the swing of things and finished the round stronger.

Cruise started the seventh

with a big right followed by a hook to the body in an attempt to slow down Keeler. The Celtic Warrior man was then reprimanded by the referee for a low shot that seemed to have little negative effect on Cruise.

Accuracy In round eight, Cruise once again started well to land some accurate jabs that Keeler sim-

ply had no answer for, and took the round easily.

Keeler was knocked back during the ninth as the trend of Cruise dominating the opening exchanges of the round continued. However, Keeler got his jab back into the mix and finished well to take the round.

The fight was tight as the final round got underway and

it was evident that both fighters knew they still had every chance of seeing their hand lifted into the air upon completion.

Shots were exchanged but it was Keeler who seemed to have the cleaner of them. The mid-section of the round saw a lull as both tired but Cruise was determined to have the last say and landed with a big straight.

Neither fighter deserved to lose the bout but Keeler managed to pip it with a final score of 96-95 to take his first title and give his European ranking a boost. Talks of a rematch are beginning to circulate but Keeler is likely to turn his attentions towards earning a shot at a European title.

There was no such luck for Castleknock’s Stephen Collins as he came unstuck against Mullingar’s Paddy McDonagh in the battle for the vacant light heavyweight title on the same card.

Collins was dropped in the first round and eventually went on to lose 97-94 on referee David Irvine’s scorecard, recording the first defeat of his professional career.

Net gains for Republic of Ireland side at Quad series  BERNARD DUFF sport@dublingazette.com

The Republic of Ireland netball team ahead of their game with Barbados in Lisburn last weekend. Picture: Michael Lowther

THE Republic of Ireland netball team season came to a close last weekend in Lisburn. Six fixtures in seven days was a grueling workload for an amateur organisation but the Irish ladies could look back on their efforts with immense appreciation.

It was certainly a summer that could be divided into two phases for a side based predominantly in south Dublin. Ireland dominated the European Championships second tier competition in Aber-

deen in May. In that tournament, they put together four back-toback victories as they dominated.

In truth though, the 24th world ranked ladies were really looking forward to the challenge at last week’s Summer Quad Series in Lisburn, competing with Northern Ireland (ranked 12), Barbados (11th) and Singapore (19th).

For Republic of Ireland, the standard meant their panel of 12 was tested to the limit. Wins against Barbados and Northern Ireland were not expected and the team lost by some margin in both games; 55-21 and 68-20

respectively.

But Irish Goal Defense Gen Slater explained: “Against each team there was a specific goal.

For three of the four quarters against Barbados, we met our goals of losing by a quarter by five or less. We rarely played as well as we did against Barbados.

“The really poor quarter was the next day in the last quarter.

By then, against Northern Ireland, we were gassed”.

Slater was among Ireland’s best performers across the week: “I have the experience of playing the hard games where it’s

just go all the time but a lot of the younger girls are only getting that experience by playing here in these games.”

Playing with a swollen knee, goal keeper Kate Bermingham had the least enviable job of marking a superstar Goal Shooter for each nation. Barbados’ Shonica Wharton (39 goals from 41 shots), Northern Ireland’s Lisa Bowman (45 from 47) and the player of the tournament Singapore’s Charmaine Soh (72 from 77 combined in the group game and third/fourth place game) showed no mercy.

29 June 2017 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

FASTSport

Ice man Turner turns up heat for Channel record North Dublin man joins up with Infinity team to be part of the first group to swim from the Isle of Man to Ireland, fighting through sea sickness and fog to reach Ardglass

Top tier Para-Badminton comes to Blanchardstown

 JAMES HENDICOTT

 BERNARD DUFF

sport@dublingazette.com

THE FZ Forza Irish Para-Badminton International 2017 took place in the National Sports Campus in Blanchardstown last weekend with Paralympic motivation very much on the mind.

Now in its third year, the large space of the new venue proved to be favourable with competitors having been moved from the smaller Antrim Forum.

With para-badminton recently included for its maiden outing at the 2020 Toyko Summer Olympics, it meant that some of the 132 athletes participating from 28 countries had a real chance of gaining a dream ticket to Tokyo.

Para-badminton has six different categories and the eight strong Irish playing team were represented in five. Over the four days of the tournament, an incredible 21 different competitions took place.

In Wheelchair 1 & 2 (WH1-WH2) Ireland were represented by Michael Curry and Chris Stewart in the men’s and in the women’s Laura Lee Jenkins teamed up with Scotland’s Fiona Christie in doubles.

It was the Jenkins/Christie pairing who gained a bronze medal. They won two of three matches in their group before losing in the semi-final to Swiss pair Mathez/Suther-Erath (21-13, 21-14).

The wheelchair categories are played on a wooden floor rather than the familiar matting and the court is half as wide as a standard court.

In Standing Lower (SL4), which is played on a full court, Stephen Halpin and Wayne Brerenton didn’t qualify out of their group. Likewise, in Standing Upper (SU4), Owen Casey found the going tough.

In the final category, Short Stature 6 (SS6), Ireland had the most success, winning two bronze medals bringing the weekend’s tally to three bronze medals.

In the men’s singles, Niall McVeigh lost in the semi-final to eventual champion England’s Krysten Coombs (19-21, 10-21). After winning two and losing two, Emma Farnham did enough to also claim a coveted bronze medal.

Ireland manager Eugene McVeigh said: “This is really eight years work to get where we are. The national badminton centre in Lisburn is our base and Ulster Badminton has been really supportive.

Next stop now is the World Champs in Korea in November”.

ICE swimmer Conor Turner took on a new challenge earlier this month, as part of the first team ever to swim from the Isle of the Man to Ireland, a step away from his usual challenges in terms of distance, environment and practical difficulties.

Turner came to the fore in the rarefied world of ice swimming this winter, when he came second in the world championship in Germany, and very much focuses his swimming career on the winter event these days.

Having been invited to participate in the international team crossing the distance of just under 70km in the Irish Sea, Turner arrived somewhat

blind.

“Every other member of the team has been involved in an [English] channel crossing,” Turner told the Gazette. “I got the invite from Infinity Channel Swimming, whose baby it is, and pretty much just turned up and swam. They did the research, organisation, worked out the detail and all that.”

Turner’s team are the first ever to complete the distance, taking 18 hours, eight minutes and 32 seconds. the six members rotated on hourlong stints and Turner set off from the Isle of Man end. The finishing time enabled the Dubliner to personally complete the swim in Ardglass, County Down. His team consisted of Turner himself, Carole Laport

Conor Turner on the swim between the Isle of Man and Ardglass .

(France), Anna Carin Nordin (Sweden), Rory Fitzgerald (GB/Ireland), and Elina Makïnen (Finland).

“We swam alongside a rig,” Turner explained.

“People gave us instructions and direction, and we swam for an hour each time. It was daylight for all but three or four hours but the first parts were very rough.

“I tried to treat my section of the swim like a 5km, which takes about an hour, and is a distance I’d be quite used to. I swam at about 85% to account for it being an hour of effort. Then you change over which means one swimmer dropping back and the next getting in the water and swimming past them.”

The toughest stages

for Turner were actually in the boat, however, though he admitted the best bit of each hour was “getting back out”.

“I got quite seasick, which isn’t something I’ve had to worry about before,” he said. “The second shift, I was getting into the water between 1 and 2am, and because I’d been sick, I

though I probably will.

You learn from this, and I prefer to learn my own lessons, as something that works for someone else might not work for me, and vice versa.

“There’s definitely big adaptions necessary in the preparation: how to eat, how to rest, that kind of thing if I’m going to do something like this

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

‘I don’t find the temperature difficult; 12 or 13 degrees is tropical compared to ice swimming.’ - Conor Turner

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

was running on fumes.

That was pretty difficult.

“There was plenty of wildlife, lots of jellyfish stings. But I didn’t find the temperature particularly difficult, at 12-13 degrees. That’s tropical compared to the ice swimming.”

The swim ended with some modest drama, as fog descended and the team struggled with navigation into the planned finish in Ardglass harbour. “We ended up a kilometre or so off course,” Turner recalled.

“But we just went in to the shore, stood up on the rocks and marked the finish. Then got back in the boat to go to the harbour. You couldn’t see 20 metres in front of you face; the fog just came in from nowhere in the last hour and a half.

“I’m not sure I’d do something like this again,

again. It’s a different kind of thing to the swimming I’ve done before and I’m not sure I understand the motivation behind it, if I’m honest.

“It’s very tough and not always that enjoyable.

“But it was some feeling standing at the end knowing that your team is the first to ever do that swim.”

Turner’s main goals this season remain with the ice swimming championship, with his training ramping up in Autumn for next year’s event in Estonia, though he is a little concerned by the reduced distance – 450 metres instead of 1,000.

In the meantime, he’ll be competing in a range of sea swims, ramping up to five and 10km towards the end of the summer.

“For fun,” as you do.

GAZETTE

30 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 29 June 2017

SPORT

FASTSport

SOCCER: SHELS AND HOME FARM UNDERPIN REPRESENTATIVE VICTORY

Hand the All-Ireland 50kg muay thai champ FIFTEEN year-old Liam Hand is new to the sport of muay thai, but has taken to the martial art with extraordinary speed, winning a 50kg weight category All-Ireland title recently after just 12-months of training.

Adapting from a background in basketball and GAA, and coming to his newfound event more through a love of all things sporting than the more predictable Conor McGregor link, Hand’s rise has been one of the cliched, meteoric variety.

The new Junior K1 Muay Thai All-Ireland title holder – from Old County Glen in Crumlin – comes from the same estate that McGregor grew up in and has clocked up a number of other titles on top his recent national win in his short time in the sport.

Training at Hori’s Muay Thai Gym, Hand overcame Shane Lawless of Na Fianna at Sandyford’s Takeover 9 show earlier this month to win his title.

It was Hand’s fast start in the contest that did much of the damage, with Lawless on the back foot in the early stages after Hand landed a number of early combinations. The fight went on for a lively five rounds, however, before he was to come out on top.

In his 12 months in the sport, the title marks Hand’s third belt, prompting the obvious comparison with another Crumlin native amongst those at his club.

Hand was in the midst of his Junior Cert when the All-Ireland competition came around in early June, but nevertheless was training in his Cherry Orchard-based gym on a near daily basis around his studies, alongside coach Gabor Hortobagyi.

The coach is building a strong team of fighters around him who have ambitions to take their skills outside of Ireland, but are also looking to add to the gym with interested parties from the age of seven and upwards.

Following the fight, Hand thanked his sponsors, who have enabled him to compete more widely. He is currently helped along the way by Brian McElroy Funeral Directors, Halfway Cabs, Pat Brown Butchers, Kevin Shanahan Progum and Thai Healing Massage.

MGL captain Rachael Kelly celebrates with her teammates after winning the Gaynor Cup Under-16 final. Picture: David Maher/Sportsfile

Gaynor Cup glory for MGL sport@dublingazette.com

FIVE Shelbourne Ladies players were included in the Metropolitan Girls League Under-16 squad who lifted the Gaynor Cup after a 1-0 win over Galway and District League at the University of Limerick last weekend.

Rachael Kelly, Oleta Griffin, Jess Ziu, Taylor Massey and Carla Fitzsimons were all in the side as Alannah McEvoy secured the win from the penalty spot during the first half. Home Farm had two players in the squad in Niamh Murphy Halstead and Georgia Monks.

The opening period of

the game was a scrappy affair with both sides giving away cheap possession a number of times.

Isabel Atkinson had a half chance after six minutes when MGL broke quickly up the pitch and found the striker wide on the left. Atkinson knocked it past her marker and made her way into the box but an excellent tackle from a covering defender prevented her from getting a shot away.

Sinead Donovan then hit a shot from the edge of the box than initially looked like it may go over the head of captain Kelly and into the back of the MGL net, but it actually

CELTIC CHALLENGE Dublin Plunkett Down-ed in Corn Robinson final CRAOBH Chiarain’s Eoin Forbes shakes hands with Matt McAreavey of Down following their encounter last weekend.

He was lining out for the Dublin Plunkett representative team during the Bank of Ireland Celtic Challenge Corn William Robinson Final match between Down and Dublin Plunkett at Netwatch Cullen Park in Carlow.

Down won the final 3-11 to 2-11.

The competition has been running for two months with 400 over 1,400 players and 47 teams taking part. Picture: Seb Daly/Sportsfile

drifted harmlessly over the bar.

Doireann Fahey then had a great chance to give MGL the lead from a corner. Atkinson swung the ball in and when the Galway defender missed it fell to Fahey two yards from goal. The ball hit the midfielder in the chest and rolled towards the keeper, however, the net-minder then somehow managed to spill the ball back into the path of Fahey, whose follow up was blocked by a couple of players and eventually cleared.

MGL did take the lead just minutes later, however, when the referee seemed to indicate a Galway

player had handled the ball from a free kick into the box, and pointed to the spot. McEvoy stepped up and coolly slotted the ball past the keeper’s dive and into her bottom left-hand corner.

Galway had a great chance to equalise at the start of the second half when a free kick into the box fell at the feet of one of the players. Her first touch let her down, however, and the ball was cleared.

Galway were better in the second half but they couldn’t find a way past a stubborn defence and MGL were crowned champions.

Shelbourne and Home

Farm also both had players in the Under-12 MGL squad who won their Gaynor Cup. Shelbourne’s Leah Reilly and Leah Tighe played alongside Home Farm’s Teagan Charmont Walsh, Jade Flannery, Ciara Giles, Danielle Joyce, Abbie Larkin, Kate Skillington and Caoimhe Creighton with MGL eventually going on to win on penalties.

As for the MGL Under14 side, Lucy Edwards, Chloe McCarthy, Simone Peat and Zoe Leonard represented Shelbourne alongside Kaithlyn Fitzgerald from Home Farm as the side finished third.