Dundrum GAZET TE FREE
RECYCLE THIS COPY. KEEP DUBLIN TIDY.
MAY 10, 2012
DUNDRUM • CHURCHTOWN • NUTGROVE • RATHFARNHAM • BALLINTEER • SANDYFORD • LEOPARDSTOWN • TERENURE • STILLORGAN
INSIDE: Elegance galore at the Ghana Union of Ireland’s dinner dance P2
TREATY: Senator Darragh O’Brien
on why FF wants a Yes vote See Page 6
An ice job: Time to get stuck in to their duties RTE’S Brian Dobson just couldn’t
Soccer: Local hero Duff named in Trappatoni’s Euro 2012 squad Page 32
Hockey: Loreto denied by late decision in All-Ireland final Page 30
ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ..................... 2 BUSINESS .................... 19 MOTORS ....................... 20 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26
wait for the photoshoot to finish as he tucked into his delicious ice cream at Dundrum Town Centre recently, where he was helping the Minister of State for European Affairs, Lucinda Creighton and Sarah Purcell launch the HB Ice-cream Fundays Party at the shopping centre’s Tesco branch. The trio are inviting people to join in the fun on the nationwide Tesco and HB Hazelbrook Farm initiative, which is being held throughout May and June to help support Down Syndrome Ireland.
Shock as robbers strike two eateries Armed raiders menaced staff with guns, knives
I BAIRBRE NI BHRAONAIN
TWO armed robberies, which took place in a local restaurant and a takeaway, have left residents shocked this week. Howard’s Way, on the Braemor Road, and Marsella’s Takeaway, on Beaumont Avenue, were both targeted
by armed raiders, who got away with cash. On May 4, staff members at Howard’s Way were forced at gunpoint to accede to the raiders’ demands. Three men emptied a safe on the premises and escaped. Two days later, staff members at Marsella’s Takeaway
were threatened by two robbers armed with knives. An Cathaoirleach, Councillor John Bailey (FG), said of the raids: “Any robbery is worrying, but two in the same area within the space of 48 hours is cause for serious concern.” Full Story on Page 7
2 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 10 May 2012
COURTS: MAN CRUSHED BY BACK WHEEL OF CAR
DINNER Ghana Union of Ireland hold dinner dance
No winners here – judge A YOUNG man who ran over and killed a man who had jumped up on his parked car has been found not guilty of dangerous driving causing death. During the four-day trial Dara O’Sullivan (22) and his friends said they became scared when two men began jumping on the bonnet and roof of their limousine-style car in the early hours Mr O’Sullivan said he panicked, started the car, revved the engine and then drove a short distance. He said he saw the deceased, Liam Stafford (28), slipping off the bonnet of the car. Mr Stafford was dragged under the car and was crushed by the back wheel. After the verdict was
read out Judge Desmond Hogan said there were “absolutely no winners” in the case, as relatives of both the accused and the victim cried in court. O’Sullivan (22) of Clonard Road, Dundrum had pleaded not guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to dangerous driving causing the death of Mr Stafford (28) at Clonard Lawns, Sandyford in the early hours of November 8, 2009. After deliberating for just over one hour, the jury of seven men and five women returned a verdict of not guilty. Judge Hogan discharged the jury after telling them: “There are absolutely no winners in this situation and it’s hard to make this kind of decision. It is a thankless task.”
Nigerian ambassador to Ireland, Felix Y Pwol, and Ghana High CommissionGerry McGuire, Fingal County Council mayor
er, Prof Kwaku Danso-Boafo and (below) Richard and Jacqueline Mtow
attended the event to show his support
Ahenfie Drummer Group
Celebrating a special union HE Carlton Hotel in Tyrrelstown hosted a very special event recently when it hosted the Ghana Union Ireland Inauguration and Dinner Dance. The event celebrated all things African and a large number of African ambassadors were in attendance with the guest of honour, His Excellency, Prof
T
Erica Birch-Abban and guest artist, Twi Teacher
Kwaku Danso-Boafo (Ghana High Commissioner UK/Ireland) visiting. Guests enjoyed some great food and drink and were entertained with some fantastic music. Fingal Mayor, Cllr Gerry McGuire (Lab) was also an honoured guest.
Dr Nana Yao with children
Aba, Cassandra, Sharon, Gizzella, Emmanuella and Gabriella
10 May 2012 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 3
BOOKS Gym employee publishes her first book
Celebrating a fairytale with a difference I BAIRBRE NI
BHRAONAIN
T H E h o u s e ke e p i n g department of Rathfarnham gym, Energie Fitness, is the unlikely employer of a new children’s author. Anne Piercy who has worked at the gym for three years has just published a fairy tale with a difference, which will benefit Irish Cancer research. The book is called The Adventures of Asha Pike and it is the first in what will be a series of stories. The story tells the tale of Asha, who is a fairy in pursuit of her dream to
possess wings. Although fairies are supposed to grow wings on their 13th birthday, she doesn’t and the resultant story follows her attempts to gain her wings. Anne has been writing for many years, but has never written for children and had none of her earlier books published. Determined
She chose the selfpublishing route as she was determined to see herself in print. She doesn’t, however, recommend this route for anyone else as the whole process was rife with dif-
ficulty. “Hopefully it will sell,” she says. “It practically wrote itself because it all came from a dream I had one night.” Anne’s colleagues at Energie Fitness have been extremely supportive of their talented friend. She is employed in housekeeping in the gym, but is also a well-known face at reception where she often fills in. She had hitherto written for the adult market and never considered going the children’s book route until she had this dream. She has three children aged 19 to 26, so it wasn’t for their amusement she
Energie Fitness employee and children’s book author, Anne Piercy: “It practically wrote itself”
wrote the book. “I always loved writing and the self-publishing road was the only one available to me, but if I had the money I would
have gone with an agent,” she said. Anne is trying to market the book herself, due to the steep price of such professional services.
With the help of her son, she is in the process of creating a website and her book can be bought on Amazon and Barnes and Noble’s websites.
PROGRAMME Teacher is heading to Washington R ATHFARNHAM teacher Ronan Lynagh has been chosen as part of a management team overseeing the Washington Ireland Program (WIP) this summer. Thirty third-level students, 15 from Northern Ireland and 15 from the Republic have been selected from among over 350 applicants. They represent different universities the length and breadth of the island. WIP offers each student a twomonth internship based in Washington. US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton says: “Many of WIP’s 400 alumni are now emerging as a new generation of leaders committed to peace, stability and prosperity in both Northern Ireland and the Republic.” Ronan said: “I’m really looking forward to the program. Working in DC is an incredible opportunity.”
4 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 10 May 2012
SCHEME Learning how to touch, type, read and spell with new course
Libraries seek participants for reading, writing class A SCHEME entitled Touch, Type, Read and Spell (T TRS), which is designed for people with reading or writing difficulties, is being run in libraries across Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown. DLRCC library services are currently looking for interested participants aged between nine and
12 years who would be accompanied by their parent, or guardian, to enrol on the new and very innovative course. The course helps both adults and children who have reading, spelling or writing difficulties and is especially helpful for those who are dyslexic or who have specific learn-
ing difficulties. It teaches the student to touch type while simultaneously teaching spelling and reading all through the method of a phonetic device. L i b r a r i a n M a rian Keyes said that the course was four weeks long and is hugely effective for those with dys-
lexia and other learning difficulties. “We are calling on children with these difficulties to partake in the Teach, Touch, Read and Spell course in the Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown area,” she said. There has been a great interest response to the course and Marian said
that quite a number have signed up already. Each student works at his or her own pace and sees the word in conjunction with hearing it spoken by the computer. Then the student types what he, or she, has just seen and heard. The sessions will be supervised by a trained
tutor thanks to the support of Dun Laoghaire VEC. Councillor Victor Boyhan (Ind) said the introduction of the course was very positive and would open up so many opportunities to participants. “County librarian Mairead Owens and her team continue to push
out and expand the range of library facilities; her introduction of this innovative, computer-based programme is yet another progression of her exciting vision for the council’s library service.” To reserve a place on the course, email mkeyes@dlrcoco.ie or call 2801147.
Designer donates puppets to museum I BAIRBRE NI BHRAONAIN bbhraonain@gazettegroup.com
FASHION designer Paul Costelloe has donated four outsized puppets to Imaginosity, the National Children’s Museum in Sandyford. Costelloe visited Imaginosity to look in on his puppets and check out their new home on April 25. He created the puppets, which are dressed in antique style, and which are called Lily, Oriella, Flora and Fauna, for an exhibition entitled Enchanted Palace held in Kensington Palace last year. When the exhibition ended, the Costelloe family offered the larger-than-life
puppets to Imaginosity. To accommodate the puppets’ style, Imaginosity created a dedicated regency-themed space within the museum, and it is running an Enchanted Palace exhibition, with the puppets’ debut theatre performance opening in the museum on April 28. Their theatre piece is specially devised to animate the distinctive personalities of each of the four puppet characters. Access to Imaginosity’s general space is included in the admission price, but advance booking is required. Further details about the performances, and the Enchanted Palace exhibition can be found at www.imaginosity.ie.
Oisin Wycham was all smiles at last year’s Summerfest in Churchtown
ENTERPRISE: BUSINESSES’ FUN COMMUNITY EVENT
Churchtown looks to its Summerfest I SUZANNE BYRNE
SUMMER has finally arrived – in Churchtown, at least – as the local business association gears up for its annual Summerfest, to be held in the grounds of De La Salle College on Sunday, July 1. The event, which had its inaugural outing last year, was a runaway success for all involved, and organisers are hoping to do even better this time around. The Summerfest is designed to support and promote local business, and organisers are hoping locals will get out and vote with their feet again, this year. Among the attractions on offer, visitors
can look forward to food and garden stalls, one of Radio Nova’s legendary DJs (hummer included) orchestrating the day’s events and some fantastic day-long live entertainment, as well as kids’ favourite (and last year’s highlight): a visit from the local fire brigade. There’ll be no shortage of drama, either, with stage performances from local musical and drama societies, plus plenty of children’s entertainment, including face painting, bouncy castles and many, many other surprises. Fingers will be crossed that the Heineken Cup, which was on display last year after the local rugby heroes’ victory over Northampton Saints, will
pay a return visit when they beat Ulster pretenders in the final on May 19. After getting off to such a good start last year, the Churchtown Business Association are now looking for local businesses to contact them if they want to be a part of this year’s jamboree. There are 20 stalls up for grabs this time around, and they’ll be housed beneath a massive marquee. If last year is anything to go by, the €200 fee for a unique stall will be recouped many times over for any business hoping to showcase its wares. The marquee is a complete 80ft by 30ft large
unit, with a wooden floor, and equal space per stall, while stall places are also available outside the marquee. If you want to take part, or know anybody who does, contact 086 8234 604. On the day, entrance will be €3 for adults and €2 for children, with the day starting at 2pm and finishing at 7pm. All entertainment is free, including a “kiddies corner”. So, what else would you be doing, that day? It promises to be a great event and, hopefully, everybody in the area will come along and join in the fun and the spirit. Finally, “think local – think Churchtown”!
10 May 2012 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 5
BRAEMOR RD Council insists disruption minimal
Local business concerned at impact of ¤2.5m road works bbhraonain@gazettegroup.com
THE proposed €2.5m Braemor Road Enhancement Scheme is causing anxiety among local businesses along that stretch of road, as they foresee a fall off in revenue as a result of the inevitable disruption. The scheme, which is still in the preparatory stages, promises to develop the pathways along Braemor Road and create new cycle tracks. The construction will take roughly a year to complete and according to Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, the main period of disruption to traffic will last six months and access to all properties in the area will be maintained. Yet business leaders in the area remain unconvinced and have not been reassured by DLRCC’s insistence that the enhancement scheme will have little or no detrimental impact on these businesses. Manager of Supervalu on the Braemor Road, Sean O’Doherty, told the Gazette that until he saw the traffic management plan for the road, he
would expect major interruption to his business. “It’s hard to gauge what impact the scheme will have until this traffic management plan is done,” he said. “I went to the information evenings, those meetings that the council provided for local business interests and I was given no --------------------------
‘It’s hard to gauge what impact the scheme will have until this traffic management plan is done’
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reassurances about the disruption this work will cause.” He went on to say that the road only needed a bit of a “tidy up” and he was baffled why the council was effectively narrowing the carriageway. “Would they not be better off to spend the money somewhere else?” he asked. “The intention is to calm the traffic, but we don’t know how it will
truly be done until that traffic management plan comes out, but it has to go to tender yet. “I’m very concerned about the effect this will have on our business, especially in these times of recession. I mean, we have 165 staff employed here in Supervalu.” Other businesses on the road have agreed with O’Doherty’s assessment and have exhibited the same fear of damage to their trades. Kieran Flood of Churchtown Stores, said: “I’m in favour of the improvements if they continue in the same vein as the work done from Dundrum to the Bottle Tower. A new cycle lane is needed, as the one there at the moment is not a success and cyclists often have to use the path or the road so it’s dangerous.” Doc Martins is another business on the Braemor Road and Ruth Burke who works there, said that it would be worrying if the pharmacy’s trade was affected for the worse, as business was really good at present. DLRCC had not responded to these comments at the time of going to press.
Rathfarnham AC runners quick to win RATHFARNHAM Athletics Club featured among the winners in the Samsung Run Dublin @ Night 10KM run held recently. Over 5,000 runners took to the traffic-free streets of Dublin’s city centre on April 29 in order to take part in the event. Three of Rathfarnham AC athletes were first across the line in the Men’s 10K: Barry Minnock, originally from Tullamore, recorded a time of 31.19; Sean Hehir, recorded a time of 31.49,
while Paul Stephenson crossed the line in 33.24. Samsung organised the event together in partnership with Dublin City Council to give the public a night out with a difference in Dublin. The 10K run started and finished at Trinity College Dublin with a route which took in many of Dublin’s historic landmarks including the GPO, the Spire, the Custom House, the Convention Centre, and the Samuel Beckett Bridge.
The gang are reunited, but have they left the charm behind?’
M
I BAIRBRE NI BHRAONAIN
More Pie?
The scheme promises to develop the pathways along Braemor Road and create new cycle tracks
ENTERTAINMENT PAGE 24
6 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 10 May 2012
TREATY Pact ‘will not cure all our economic woes’
Voting Yes provides a more secure future
SENATOR DARRAGH O’BRIEN (FF) explains why his party believes the Stability Treaty will give Ireland more growth opportunities and employment THE vote on May 31 on the Stability Treaty is extremely important for Dublin, for Ireland and for Europe. The treaty sets out a new framework for countries so that the crisis of budget deficits and high debt can’t threaten the Eurozone in the future. I will be honest and say that the treaty will not cure all our economic woes of today, but it will definitely allow Dublin and Ireland to have a more secure foundation
for our future. By voting yes, we will have access to the funds needed for our public services at a lower interest rate. We will be sending a message that Irish people want to have a strong voice at the European table when growth opportunities and investment in job creation are being discussed. We need to maintain strong ties and influence in Europe and make sure our voices are heard and we will do this by voting Yes. There has been much
debate in my party about this treaty and what it means for Ireland and Europe. At the Fianna Fail Ard Fheis, 50 years ago in 1962, Sean Lemass told delegates that the alternative to joining would be that “Ireland would be an isolated unit on the fringe of a dynamic European confederation”. The last thing Ireland needs to do today is to retreat to the fringes of Europe. The European Union will play a central role in Ireland’s recovery.
That is why Fianna Fail is vigorously campaigning for a Yes vote. This fiscal crisis has been a crisis of globalisation. It has crossed borders and many other countries, not just Ireland, are facing unprecedented pressures in controlling budgets and raising the money to fund public services. A crisis of this massive scale requires collaboration, co-operation and a joined up approach to achieving solutions amongst the countries of Europe. Fianna Fail has consistently been calling for three principal issues to be addressed: changing the mandate of the European Central Bank; increasing the central funding of the EU; and federalising financial regulation. If the euro is to be saved and if it is to retain democratic legitimacy, these measures must be taken up and Fianna Fail will continue to press this. Many of the problems facing people in Ireland are shared by other countries. The budgets in capital cities around Europe, like Dublin, are under huge pressure. It makes sense, therefore, that the best way to tackle them is for countries to work together. This treaty reinforces the rules to make sure that budgets are better controlled so that major debt is avoided. In return for agreeing these controls, countries will find it easier to raise money to fund public services, like the ones we benefit from in the city every day, our buses, gardai, schools and hospitals. It provides a more secure future for our country.
Senator Darragh O’Brien (FF): “EU will play central role in Ireland’s recovery”
In fact, had this new emergency funding system and other new policies been in place years ago Ireland would never have required a bail-out. Its support programme is based entirely on targets that were already proposed by the then Irish government, and Ireland’s debt is due to top out at a level of less than that of Italy today or Greece after all their adjustments. In the 2009, referendum on the revised Lisbon proposal, public support for a Yes vote
actually rose during the campaign. This was because we worked hard to bring a positive message directly to people. That referendum changed the nature of EU debate in Ireland and this is what is reflected in the current large majority indicating an intention to vote Yes, including 70% of my party’s voters. One of the key reasons for Ireland’s attractiveness is its export platform to the rest of the EU. Today nearly 100,000 people are directly employed in over 600
US firms in Ireland. US companies have a $190 billion cumulative stock of investments in Irishbased operations. I really believe that Ireland’s full and active membership in the EU is critical for stability and investment across Dublin. I believe Dublin needs a strong Yes vote on May 31 to secure stability and economic recovery.
Darragh O’Brien Fianna Fail Senator for Dublin North and Seanad Spokesperson on Finance
10 May 2012 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 7
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CRIME Worrying trend ‘should not be ignored’
Two armed robberies at local eateries I BAIRBRE NI BHRAONAIN bnibhraonain@gazettegroup.com
TWO armed robberies, which took place in a local restaurant and a takeaway, have left residents shocked this week. Howard’s Way restaurant on Braemor Road in Churchtown was raided on May 4. At 1am, three armed men entered the premises by a back door and threatened a couple of staff members at gunpoint. A safe on the premises was robbed and sources say it contained around €6,000. Dundrum Garda station is currently investigating the crime and will
be viewing local CCTV for clues. “The three men wore dark clothing and balaclavas and carried firearms,” said a Garda spokesman. Nobody was injured in the raid, but staff members who were threatened are still believed to be traumatised by the event. Gardai are appealing to the public for witnesses to the crime. Dundrum gardai are also investigating a similar robbery which occurred two nights later, on May 6, in Marsella’s fast food takeaway on Beaumont Avenue in Churchtown. This time two armed men threatened staff members with a knife. An
undisclosed amount of cash was stolen and the two robbers made their escape in a BMW. The time of the robbery was 12.30am and the men were both dressed in black track suit bottoms with white stripes and were masked with scarves on their faces. Dundrum gardai are also appealing for witnesses to this crime and will be viewing the CCTV footage taken on the night. None of the staff members involved was injured. An Cathaoirleach councillor John Bailey (FG) said he was “appalled” by the recent robberies and hoped all
Rathfarnham Garda Station
staff members involved in the ordeals were doing well. “I’m sorry for the trauma these people have suffered and offer all my support to them.” Cllr Bailey went on to add that this worrying trend should not be ignored by residents.
“I’m sure the gardai will do all in their power to bring the matter to a quick conclusion. Any robbery is worrying, but two in the same area and within the space of 48 hours is cause for serious concern. I urge all residents to be extra vigilant and if they see anything
to contact the gardai right away.” If you have any information, contact Dundrum Garda Station (01 6665600) in relation to the Howard’s Way robbery, or Rathfarnham Garda Station (01 6666500) for Marsella’s Takeaway.
POLLING
Recruit jobless for posts THE upcoming referendum on the European Fiscal Treaty could present employment opportunities for unemployed people on polling day, May 31. Deputy Mary Mitchell O’Connor (FG) has called on the government to utilise “suitably skilled and experienced unemployed people for count centre and polling pay posts”. Deputy Mitchell O’Connor considers the pool of unemployed people to be the ideal source for such personnel. She is echoing the call for this sort of usage of unemployed people in the country recently made by the Minister of the Environment, Community and Local Government, Phil Hogan. “I am asking all those who are responsible for recruitment on polling day to employ those out of work where at all possible,” she said.
Commercial Feature
Teaching Children the Savings Habit Developing positive habits which stay with kids for life
AS credit unions throughout Ireland celebrate National Credit Union GR8 Savers week from the 7th – 13th May 2012, Rathfarnham & District Credit Union give practical advice to parents to help encourage children to develop a healthy attitude to money, and offer incentives to get them up and saving.
Learning the Value of Money In a child’s world, money comes from Mam’s purse or Dad’s pocket. When this runs out, a machine magically spouts out money by tapping in a few numbers. Children need to understand that money is earned and that you can only spend what you earn.
Top Tips to Encourage your Child to Save • Consider rewarding children for regular saving. • Help children to identify a short term goal to save towards. • Make saving interesting. Develop a savings plan or calendar to show when and how the goal can be reached or help children to hang up a picture of what they’re saving for. • Let children learn that they have to save up to buy something they really want. • Encourage your child to join a school savings scheme. The focus in not on the amount saved; rather it is on develop a habit of regular saving. • Give children a piggy bank to help them save or better still, bring them down to Rathfarnham & District Credit Union to open a savings account.
RDCU - A GR8 Place to Start Saving! Rathfarnham & District Credit Union will deposit €5 into every child account opened during National GR8 Savers Week [from the 7th – 13th May]. RDCU are also launching a School Saving Scheme in Loreto Grange Road to build on the success of the scheme already up and running in Ballyroan Boys School. Children who already have accounts should also pop in during GR8 Savers Week to see what goodies are on offer! Open your account in either of our offices in Rathfarnham Village or Nutgrove Shopping Centre. You need to bring Passport or Birth Cert/PPS Number and Proof of Parent/Guardian’s address.
8 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 10 May 2012
COMMUNITY Organisers were on the ball with a football
Even wet, airborne sponges couldn’t make John Moriarty duck out of helping with the day
These friends include Chloe Lawlor, Erica Turner, Lauryn Bryan, Kayleigh Perry, Laragh Geoghegan, Katie Doyle, Ciara Geoghegan, Cian Noctor and Lainey O’Connell. Pictures: Geraldine Woods
Enjoying the fun were Pia
Superfast Fitness: Jane Ennis, Anna Aparicio, Ruth Whelan and John O’Connell
Sean Kavanagh
Soaking up lots of great family events PORTS fans and players of all ages were well catered for with a recent fun day at St Joseph’s Boys’ ground, DNG Park, Sallynoggin, which saw football taking pride of place as a particularly popular event. While Over-35 and Under-35 teams went through their paces in an excit-
S
ing match, there were plenty of other events to enjoy, such as colouring and face-painting, while a balloon modeller created lots of fun, interesting shapes and animals. John O’Connell and his team from Superfast Fitness held a Fitness Sample Session for all ladies hoping
to improve their fitness and exercise techniques, which was followed by a hip-hop dancing session. A wet-sponge throwing event saw good-natured volunteers put themselves forward to help add to the day’s fun, with a family fun walk rounding off a busy and dynamic day’s events.
10 May 2012 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 9
match helping to make
a great family day in Sallynoggin
Eamonn
Tica, Lucy Seselj, Joanna Tica and Sandra Tica
Doyle
Stephen Tate and Euan McCormack
There was plenty of rough and tumble fun and sportsmanship on the pitch as the Over-35s and the Under-35s played. Some fancy footwork saw the This group of high-spirited lads were really enjoying the day’s fun
U-35s edge it, winning – just – with a final score of 5:4.
10 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 10 May 2012
EVENT 2012 Dublin Gala Rose Ball in the Carlton Hotel
David Farrell and Shauna Lawes
Setting the ball rolling
Eleanor Hession, Jennifer Ward, Nicola O’Donoghue and Sinead Grant
Alan McEvoy, Ellen OBrien, Carleen Stringer and Shane Collins
Darragh McGrath and Siobheal Nic Julie Beathie, Ciara Ross and Aoife McManus
Eochaidh, Rose of Dublin 2011
HE Carlton Hotel Blanchardstown hosted the 2012 Dublin Gala Rose Ball on April 27. The event was a great occasion for potential Dublin Roses to meet and greet guests and chat to former Dublin Roses. There was plenty of excitement as the Roses themselves spoke about the forthcoming 2012 Dublin Rose of Tralee Selection which will also take place at the hotel from May 18 to May 20. Over the course of the event, all Dublin Rose contestants will enjoy a complimentary three-night stay including breakfast and dinner at the Carlton Hotel.
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Peter Richardson, Christina Ryan, Ann Ryan and Thomas Ryan
Fionan Henry and Tara Talbot, Rose of Tralee 2011
Susan Dowdall, Sarah Fitzgerald and Grace Nixon, Mark Nixon and Mel O’Conghaile
Saoirse Bardin, Paige Bardin, Monijka Bardin, Mary Bardin and Shannon Bardin
Mark Dowdall
10 May 2012 GAZETTE 11
12 GAZETTE 10 May 2012
GazetteContacts
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SNAPSHOT The local stories of the day
Summer Wedding Open Day THE Castle Arch Hotel in Trim will host its Summer Wedding Open Day on Sunday, May 13, from 2 to 5pm. The Castle Arch is one of the leading wedding venues in County Meath and this event will be one of their best open day’s with the hotel set up as it would be on the bride and groom’s special day.
Experience The management team have years of experience with weddings and will be on hand to guide you through the planning of your special day. T heir hallmark is attention to detail at all times by experienced staff in the art of creating a perfect wedding. The Castle Arch loves
weddings and this is obvious from the attentive service you receive from the initial enquiry through to departure the next morning after your perfect wedding. The Emmet Suite is the hotel’s dedicated wedding suite and will be set up with beautiful chair covers and a choice of sashes, as well as luxurious floral arrangements on each table and a fairylight backdrop.
Civil wedding The hotel is also registered for civil wedding ceremonies and the Arch Suite will be decorated as it would be on the special day with linen chair covers, flowers and candles. Contact the hotel directly for more information on packages. Contact Ruth Traynor o n 0 4 6 - 9 4 31516 o r Ruth@cusackhotels. com
The Emmet Suite
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10 May 2012 GAZETTE 13
EVENT Charity lunch at Brasserie 15
Encouraging healthy eating
Bressie’s boost to mum’s support centre I LAURA WEBB
lwebb@gazettegroup.com
HE has fast become a household name after judging, and mentoring the winning act of the Voice of Ireland, but his new found fame hasn’t inflated his ego, as he uses his celebrity status to fundraise for charity. Earlier this year, Bressie, aka Niall Breslin, was named the ambassador of LARCC (Lakelands Area Retreat and Cancer Centre) a cancer support centre located just outside his hometown of Mullingar in Co Westmeath, where his mum, Mandy, is the director. To help raise funds for the centre, he hosted a charity lunch in Brasserie 15 in Castleknock, Dublin 15 last week.
His best friend helped get the venue and he brought the entertainment, with thanks to his protegee, the Voice of Ireland winner, Pat Byrne. Speaking to the Gazette this week, he talked about his involvement in the charity and what’s next for the singer/songwriter and producer. Respected
“ I t ’s a ve r y we l l known national charity. It is very well respected. A lot of cancer charities deal with the physical aspect of cancer; this is looking more at the emotional and psychological aspect of it. It is a residential treatment centre where parents can go for a week with the family, and that
INITIATIVE: PROMOTING FRUIT AND VEGETABLES
Bressie with mum Mandy. Picture: Ania Sherlock
is unique – there is nowhere in the whole country where you can do that. “The HSE has cut funding by 50-60% and a lot of people don’t realise there is an emotional side to cancer, so people don’t really dedicate money to it. “There was no way I was going to let it lose out. I thought I could bring something to it, but then the show [The Voice] started and then I knew I could really bring something to it and it has. “We are starting with
this event, and then there will be a big event in the summer and we are not talking about trying to keep one open, we are talking about opening others – that is where I am going with it,” he said. Joining Bressie at the lunch was fellow Voice judge, Brian Kennedy, who said he was only too happy to be part of the charity event. Although he won’t be on our screens every Sunday night with the Voice, Bressie is still ver y much involved
in it as he gets ready to work with his winning act Pat Byrne, and also help his other act, Conor Quinn. “Pat hasn’t even got a day off yet. He asked about it, but I quickly told him – you’re in the music business now, there is no such thing,” he joked. “ We h ave s t a r t e d writing for the album for Pat. Then I will work with Conor and then work on my own. It’s a busy time.” For further information on LARCC log onto www.larcc.ie
STUDENTS across the country will be kept busy throughout May as Agri Aware’s Incredible Edibles Healthy Eating Month challenges students to record their daily intake of potatoes, fruit and vegetables. Launched in Family Farm, which was developed by Agri Aware and Dublin Zoo, Minister of State Shane McEntee (FG), was on hand to commence the monthlong initiative which will see students note their consumption of these foods in a special healthy eating diary as part of the overall Incredible Edibles initiative. With childhood obesity levels in Ireland reaching epidemic proportions, Agri Aware’s Incredible Edibles is a healthy eating initiative that encourages primary school children to eat more potatoes, fruit and vegetables. The project, now in its fourth year, is delivered by Agri Aware and is supported by Bord Bia, the Irish Farmers’ Association (IFA) and the Irish horticulture industry. The sponsors of the Incredible Edibles project will deliver healthy eating awareness activities, demonstrations and food tastings as part of Incredible
Edibles Healthy Eating month at Family Farm, Dublin Zoo during May. Students nationwide are collecting the Incredible Edibles tokens and/ or the Bord Bia Quality Mark from Irish potatoes, fruit and vegetables to win some amazing prizes for their class. The public are encouraged to help out by collecting the tokens and/or the Quality Mark from Irish potatoes, fruit and vegetables in support of their local schools participating in the project. Speaking at the launch, Minister McEntee commented: “In light of the current levels of obesity, especially in our younger population, and the overall need to increase fruit and vegetable consumption, I am very pleased that the Incredible Edibles has evolved to have a stronger emphasis on the need to increase consumption; I see Healthy Eating Month as a key part of this process.” Encouraging a positive attitude to healthy eating, Bernard Donohue, chairman of Agri Aware, said: “Incredible Edibles Healthy Eating month is a great opportunity for parents and teachers to communicate the importance of healthy eating to children.”
14 GAZETTE 10 May 2012
GazettePETS PETS
Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA
THE FACTS: YOUR CAT’S DIET MAY NEED AN OVERHAUL AS SHE GETS OLDER
Helping kitty stay fit and healthy as she gets older H yes, it’s a cool for cats kinda time right now because it seems readers just can’t get enough of our feline friends… well, if your calls to the shelter are anything to go by. So, this week, I
A
thought I’d continue my, ahem, CAT-alogue of kitty columns and delve a little into the world of the senior feline and her specific dietary needs and requirements. You see as Kitty gets older, her nutritional needs will start to
change. She may have a slower metabolism and gain a few pounds, she may become less active and wish to stay indoors more therefore to help her stay fit and healthy into her senior years, you, as her parent, will need to give her diet an overhaul. However, I must add, always check with your vet before you change your pet’s diet, especially if there are specific health problems that need to be addressed.
Levels of Activity Some cats go out and hunt and are pretty active, others are pampered and lie around the house all day. It makes sense then that the less active Kitty may require 10% less maintenance energy. T his is also quite dependent on the weather. For example, keeping the body warm or cooling it down will use up more energy, so keep in touch with your vet in the event the temperature plummets and the same goes if we ever manage to get a heatwave… although the latter hardly ever occurs in Ireland.
As your cat gets older, her nutritional needs will start to change
Health Status If Kitty’s had surgery or an illness, she may have increased nutritional requirements in order to help her heal. Again, keep in contact with your vet who will best advise regarding periods of illness and recovery. Portion Control is Important Work with your vet to ascertain which senior cat food provides the best nutritional balance for Kitty. To help her maintain her recommended weight, measure out the portions as per manufacturer’s/veterinarian’s instructions.
Dividing the Spoils Usually it’s recommended you feed your cat two meals per day using portion control. Divide the amount suggested as per your vet or food manufacturer advice and allocate them approximately eight hours apart. As cats require taurine, (an amino acid important to maintain normal heart function, reproduction and vision) and… here’s a little tip; most mammals can make taurine, but cats can’t, it’s important to feed Kitty animal-based protein which means a meat-based diet in order
to meet her nutritional requirements. Remember you may need to adjust intake according to your cat’s level of activity or your vet’s recommendations.
Temperature A senior cat’s sense of smell may diminish slightly, so try to offer her food at room temperature to make it easier for her to be attracted to the aroma. Water Only Forget the saucer of milk, it’s bad for Kitty. Cats cannot process enough lactase in order to break down lactose
in milk, therefore allowing Kitty to drink milk or milk-based products will cause her to vomit or experience diarrhoea. Give water only and make sure you encourage her to drink it often, as some senior cats may be prone to medical problems such as urinary tract infections and an increased water intake may reduce the risk of this. It will also reduce the risk of dehydration. So, following the all clear from your vet, make sure Kitty gets enough gentle exercise in the form of some play with toys or a little potter around the garden while you’re tending to the plants. The above is written as a guideline only, so if you’ve got a senior cat, why not pop her along to your vet today for a quick check up because with his/her help, there’s no reason why you and Kitty can’t enjoy the golden years together and optimise her health and wellbeing. For more information,
log onto www.dspca.ie or contact your vet or email me at miriam.kerins@ dspca.ie
10 May 2012 GAZETTE 15
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GazetteGROWING GROWING
In association with
TASTE: NO NEED TO ROOT AROUND FOR A GREAT TREAT
Can’t beet this THIS month, we will be harvesting the first of our new-season beetroot. Okay, so they will be no bigger than golf balls, and will have been grown in the polytunnel – but they will be all the tastier and more tender as a result. I was turned off beetroot as a kid because the only way I ever saw it presented was pickled and floating in vinegar – fresh beetroot plucked straight from the soil and baked to retain all the goodness is a different matter: earthy, tender, wonderful and incredibly good for you. Interesting to note that we also still have about half a dozen beetroot from last year in a box of sand in the shed – they were sown in July, lifted for storage in October,
and we’ve been eating a couple a week since. They have held up well. They are an altogether hardier affair than the new season ones – about the size of large oranges, and not quite as tender, but they still taste pretty good and make a useful addition to salads (raw, grated). To my mind, this brings home why beetroot is the perfect GIY crop – it can be difficult to source fresh in the supermarket, it’s easy to grow, doesn’t demand much space and, with a little planning, it can be enjoyed fresh all year round. By the way, if you are heading to Bloom in the Phoenix Park (May 31 to June 4), come and visit us at the GIY Zone.
We will be showing people how to sow seeds and generally spreading GIY joy. We’re also aiming to break a Guinness World Record for the most people sowing seedlings at the one time, and creating a giant seedling mosaic!
Tip of the week: Best way to sow beetroot Beetroot likes a deep, sandy soil, manured the previous winter. Apply organic fertiliser about a week before sowing. Germination is in about 10 days, and you will have roots to eat in about three months. I always sow beetroot in module trays and then carefully transplant them about a month after sowing.
They should be planted four inches apart, in rows about 12 inches apart. Bear in mind that a beetroot seed is actually a “cluster” of up to five seeds, so even if you sow just one seed, you may end up with a small cluster of plants – thin them out to just one seedling. Sow every two weeks from April until July (for a continuous supply of young beets), although you can start even earlier (March) in a greenhouse or polytunnel. Sow another batch in July, which will be ready to lift in October for winter storage.
Michael Kelly is a
freelance journalist, author and founder of GIY Ireland
Recipe of the Week BEETROOT, walnuts and goat’s cheese make ideal bedfellows for a salad. This delicious salad serves four. Ingredients: • 12-15 baby beetroot • Two TBSP lemon juice • 80ml extra virgin olive oil • One TSP Dijon mustard • 70g baby spinach leaves and some small beetroot leaves • A bunch of flat-leaf parsley leaves, roughly chopped • 100g soft goat’s cheese, crumbled • 75g toasted walnuts TWIST off the leaves from the beetroot (don’t cut, this causes them to bleed), leaving about two inches
of stalk attached to the beet. Wash them well and pat dry. Place them in a tinfoil parcel, and bake in a hot (220C) oven for about 35-45 minutes. They will be very tender when cooked – pierce with a knife to check. Take a beetroot and rinse under a cold tap (so you can handle it), then quickly remove the skin by rubbing with your fingers – if it is well cooked, it should come off easily. Repeat with all the beetroot and cut them into quarters. Whisk the
lemon juice, olive oil and mustard together in a small bowl. Season to taste. Place the spinach, beetroot leaves and chopped parsley in a large bowl. Add half the dressing and toss well. Divide among four serving plates (or leave in the large bowl, if desired), then scatter with beetroot, goat’s cheese and toasted walnuts. Garnish the salad with some parsley, drizzle with the remaining dressing and serve immediately.
DublinGazetteNewspapers Advertising Sales Professionals Dublin Gazette Newspapers is Dublin’s fastest growing community weekly regional publisher, with 8 titles covering the M50 from Swords to Dun Laoghaire. We are currently looking to recruit: We are now seeking experienced media sales executives to work in our advertising dept in our Lucan head office on a number of Dublin Gazette titles. Experience in newspaper advertising sales is preferable. Full clean driving license and own car required; fluent written and oral English essential. Excellent package on offer to suitable candidates. If you can work on your own initiative within a team environment, are motivated, enthusiastic with an excellent work ethic, please send your cv to: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com
16 GAZETTE 10 May 2012
GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY The essential
A designer gift from Lancome
LANCOME announces its June 2012 designer gift collaboration with luxury design house, Jenny Packham. This is one of Lancome’s most exciting designer collaborations to date. The style of the make-up purse has a vintage feel to it, featuring romantic floral designs created exclusively by de Gournay for the Jenny Packham Lancome bag. From June 2012, Lancome customers can own this unique bag by simply purchasing two Lancome products (one to be skincare) from a Lancome counter. Available nationwide from June 8, 2012, whilst stocks last.
et’s face it, the sooner we go on holidays to catch a few rays from that shiny ball in the sky, known as THE SUN, the sooner faces will be smiling again. The travel season is among us and Gazette Beauty is on a mini mission to give readers an idea of some of the essential products that should take up space in that 20kg bag. Forget packing luggage to the brim with flip flops and sarongs, you know you won’t use, think about items that you can’t live without on a sun holiday. Helping to take the stress out of travel this summer is Burt’s Bees and its mini kits. The kits have mini-
L
Enjoy the summer holiday season but take care while in the sun with an appropriate sun screen to prevent burning
ature versions of all it’s full size favourites with Tips and Toes Kit, Head to Toe, Radiance Healthy Glow and the Essential Burt’s Bee Kit – our favourite. This essential Burt’s Bee’s kit (€16.99) contains soap bark and chamomile deep cleansing cream, hand cream, nourishing milk and honey lotion, coconut foot cream and beeswax lip balm. Of these, the lip balm is a must to keep with you at all times to avoid dry lips while sun bathing. T he coconut foot cream gives great relief after a day’s walking, or a night’s dancing and the coconut scent boosts that happy holiday feeling – available at health
stores and pharmacies nationwide. Take care while in the sun, and so it’s not unusual that we say sun factor is a MUST for everyone. Don’t let skin burn – red is not a sun-kissed colour, it’s sun-kissed pain. Apply sun factor as often as you can. If money doesn’t matter, Piz Buin is a favourite here as it is great for sensitive and dry skin, and works on building a glowing natural tan. Saving pennies? Then try out Lidl’s very own range from Cien. The range is available in various sun protection factors to suit every need from factor 8 to factor 50, kids to adults, it has the lot. Here’s something eve-
10 May 2012 GAZETTE 17
Edited by Laura Webb
products for a spell in the sun tecting hair from everyday wear and tear, a must when out and about this summer – Aussie hair products are available at Boots nationwide. Rub away your stress and worries with the new Spa Collection Absolute Calm Massage Oil, €8/100ml from Marks & Spencer. This non-greasy massage oil has been specially formulated with sweet almond oil to condition and nourish the skin whilst a soothing blend of essential oils of mandarin, chamomile and lavender help relax and unwind. This is perfect for trying to unwind after a day sightseeing. Also available in this range is the Spa Collection Absolute Calm Bath Essence, €5.50/300ml and Spa Collection Absolute Calm Pillow Mist, €5.50/50ml. Now obviously we are not saying take all these essentials with you, because if you do, that 20kg will be full before you get a chance to put in any summer shorts, so just take in our advice and then find what best suits your top five travel essentials.
Help take the stress out of travel with Essential Burt’s Bees Kit
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Dead Sea Skin Magik Brushing Salts (€17.95). This is a mix of Dead Sea salts and coconut oil, perfect for pre beach exfoliation and a great treatment for cellulite, also available at Nelson’s Homeopathic Dispensary. Take care of your hair when away. The Aussie hair care range, not only smells fantastic but works wonders for dry/ damaged hair. Tried and tested by Gazette beauties, the range recommended this summer is the Miracle Moist Range. This range makes hair soft, shiny and fabulously conditioned. It brings moisture to dry damaged hair, which is often a result of sun exposure. Miracle Moist Shampoo is used to lock moisture in all day long. After that, use Miracle Moist Conditioner for some serious moisturising. But the one thing we advise not to leave behind is its Miracle Hair Insurance. This leave-in conditioner is a little miracle for detangling hair by conditioning and nourishing it, while also pro-
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ryone should know – sun protection factor (SPF) refers to how long you can stay in the sun without getting burned. The higher the factor the longer you can stay out without burning. The Cien range is priced between €2.99 and €4.99. Another essential is, of course, after sun. One suggestion from Gazette Beauty for a good after sun, essential for soothing is Green People After Sun (€15.99). This product is made with cooling peppermint and helps to maintain a healthy tan – available at Nelson’s Homeopathic Dispensary, Duke St, Dublin 2. Travelling can take its toll on some stomachs and so a travel sickness preventative is worth bringing along, helping you enjoy your summer rather than loath it because of travel sickness. Our recommendation is, also available from Nelson’s, is Travella, a homeopathic preparation to aid with symptoms of travel sickness, this costs €7.25. Exfoliate before heading to the beach with
All of your latest local news, sport, features and pictures are now just a click away Lidl’s very own range from Cien has factors to suit every need
18 GAZETTE 10 May 2012
GazetteMUSIC MUSIC FastTunes with Radio Nova’s Dee Woods SHE’S been called one of the most controversial women in rock, and I think Courtney Love whole-heartedly deserves that crown. Brawls, court cases, drugs...this woman has stared the usual rock cliches in the face (and in some cases, punched it), but only she could continue the on-again off-again relationship with her fella, 18 years after his death. Nirvana frontman Kurt Cobain died in 1994 and the rights to his image were in
the hands of his wife. Although tumultuous, their relationship was one that seemed to survive all sorts of challenges...until Courtney needed a quick buck, it seems. It’s emerged the Hole singer gave up her rights to Cobain’s name, likeness and appearance in exchange for €2.1m. Surely, she wouldn’t be so shallow... I hear you ask, where is she getting the money? Oh, that’d be from her teenage daughter, Frances Bean
Cobain’s, trust fund. So, Courtney gets the loan of a couple of million, but until she can pay it back, will no longer be head of the company that looks after the Cobain cashflow: Frances Bean is. The 19-year-old is taking over her 47-year-old mother’s job and giving her a loan? Talk about role reversal. In fairness to Courtney, she’s doing her best to earn a few quid in the meantime. Her first art show was launched in New York last week. It featured drawings and lyrics by the Hole frontwoman and the piece de resistance: a designer gown which she claimed was to be worn to her marriage to Ed Norton that never happened. Now, there’s a woman with an appropriate surname - what’s not to Love?
Adam Yauch of the Beastie Boys had an influence on a generation of music fans
All our love and respect to the end I ROB HEIGH
WHEN it was announced last week that Beastie Boy Adam Yauch had died after a three-year battle against cancer, the wave of genuine shock and sadness that passed through the world of music was palpable. Although the portents were not good when he was unable to attend the band’s induction to the Rock N Roll Hall Of Fame in April, there was still hope that this essential part of one of the most influential and beloved bands of the past three decades would beat the disease that afflicted him. Yauch’s gravelly rasp counterpointed Diamond’s pally vibe and Horowitz’s amped craziness on the mic. Their skills combined to create a unique bouillabaisse – a Beastie Boys record was instantly recognisable, not only because of their rhyme styles, but because you felt that the way their personalities were right there on the track. Every record, which never sold less than a
million copies on release, was a new adventure in sound – the Beasties took the influences of their world, mashing up Japanese pop, Jamaican dub, old-school hip-hop, soul and hard rock riffs and made something uniquely their ow n. At the same time, they wrote some of the most memorable, quotable, referential and – don’t forget or underestimate this – fun rhymes in rap. The fact that the band seemed like a band of brothers, transmitting a genuine enjoyment in what they did, never appearing po-faced or serious, even in the face of serious illness in the last three years, defines why the Beastie Boys meant so much to so many people. They loved what they did, and they wanted you to be a part of the party they fought for the right to throw. You were invited, and welcome – the door was open and theirs was not a closed world of gangsta mores or outrageous bling that you had no access to. They opened a whole new world of music to
this impressionable teen – the Beasties were the link to Run-DMC, to Public Enemy, to NWA, and on, and on… Not only to their contemporaries, but also to the artists they sampled on their tracks, too innumerable to mention, especially on their best album, Paul’s Boutique. Creating some of the most memorable moments in music video history – Intergalactic, Body Movin’, So What’cha Want – was another of Yauch’s talents that was most immediately on display in the public domain, but his activism and charitable work for Tibetan freedom and the recovery of New York in the wake of 9/11 were other aspects of the work he did, which underlined his humanity and humanitarianism. There has been nothing but the Beasties finest moments on the playlist since last Friday, and they will always be one of of my most dearly loved, and missed, musical heroes. T hank you, Boys. Thank you, Adam. Namaste.
10 May 2012 GAZETTE 19
GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS
Supported by AIB
Interview: Tracy Leonard, DAS Academy in Lucan and Rush
Helping people achieve their dreams
MORTGAGE RELIEF Q – We bought my first house in 2004, bought the second in 2010, as the family grew. We could not sell the first, as it was in negative equity and rented it out in 2010, losing the mortgage interest relief. Should we still qualify after recent changes ? The rent doesn’t cover the mortgage capital and interest repayments. Colin – Terenure A - Measures brought into effect last Budget would have meant that, had you stayed in your first house, you would now be enjoying 30% mortgage interest relief until 2017 ! Unfortunately, moving meant that you lost out on being a first-time buyer and, therefore, precludes you from receiving the new life changes announced in the last Budget. At
INTERNATIONAL singer and actress Tracy Leonard runs a new stage school in Lucan and Rush, known as DAS Academy (Dancing, Acting, Singing Academy). Tracy trained at the Gaiety School of Acting, Dublin and the Royal Academy of Music, London on its world renowned Musical Theatre Course and has worked professionally in Ireland, the UK and on a cruise ship as the main singer for Broadway style shows on the US high seas. Tracy loves to perform on stage and has done so since a young age, she now wants to help new up-and-coming actors, singers and dancers achieve their dreams or even just enjoy it as something to help them gain more confidence in themselves in everyday life. International singer and actress Tracy Leonard runs a new stage school in Lucan and Rush
Q&A When you were a kid, what did you want to be? A singer. What was your first job? Farmer’s daughter and then helping run a video shop when I was 15. I didn’t want to get muddy anymore!
soon as you started renting your former home. There are so many people who were forced to rent out their homes because of their inability to maintain repayments, but did not stop the TRS. This could come back to haunt them. Presumably, you are also making the usual offsets against the rental income tax liability: • 75% of the mortgage interest • Service charges (including block insurance) • Repairs and maintenance • 12.5% of furniture and fixtures (keep receipts) for each of the first eight years • PRTB fees • Property management fees • Contents insurance if contents are your own The NPPR and household charges are not allowable for offsetting against your rental income tax
What part of your working day do you “delegate”? I leave the dancing to Thomas…we work on production pieces together, but when it comes to choreography, I have a cuppa… What sport do you follow? I like rugby.
And your first pay check? I remember wanting these runners and thought if I work for two weeks, I’ll be able to get them. It made me feel great to be able to get them myself.
What sport can you play? I used to play camogie and Gaelic football, but now I just walk a lot and run around after my toddler…keeps me fit to say the least!
When did you start your present job? August 2011 with the stage school and singing forever it seems. Before that for weddings, shows and events.
What is your guilty music, TV or movie pleasure? I just love Sky Plus. I get to watch it all after baby is in bed and I can wind down with the soap stories, a nice cuppa and some choccy.
What is the best thing about your job? The kids. Seeing them achieve a dance move they couldn’t do before or hitting a note that seemed out of reach, not being shy to read out or “act” in front of their peers.
least you stopped the TRS (tax relief at source) as
What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/iPad? Everything from Heads Shoulders Knees and Toes to Rhianna for DAS Academy classes.
Who do you follow on Twitter/ Facebook? Just friends and family really, as my husband is American, so I keep in touch with all my friends and in-laws that way. It’s great for sharing photos and stories. Describe your dream meal? Cooked oysters and then a big, thick medium-rare steak and cheesy potatoes. Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously? On my son and my husband – online. That way it’s a surprise when it arrives. I’m not a complete martyr though, I do get myself stuff too. How many pairs of shoes do you own? Mmm, let me think … about 40. BUT can’t wear half of the really high heels at the moment. I do intend wearing them again in the future, so refuse to throw them out (not sure if I’m in denial or not though!)
What was your worst holiday experience? My last trip to California (where my husband is from). The holiday wasn’t the problem, the travel was! Dublin to London to San Franciso was so long and my son was only six months old at the time. He was great on the flights but I hate flying! So, while hubby and son snoozed away, I was envisioning all sorts of scary airplane movies! Describe your dream holiday? Me, hubby and son by a pool with a maid to do all the cooking and cleaning. What would be your dream job? Singing/acting a couple of days a week and teaching the DAS Academy kids a couple of days a week too – I have done both, but not together yet. What do you plan to do when you retire? IF I retire, which will probably only ever be part-time retirement, as I love singing, acting and teaching. I will travel, relax and spend time with my son and future children and me and my husband’s family.
liability. As regards tax relief on your second home, the original allowance of seven years has now expired – the last two years being at 20% tax relief. Contact John with your money questions at
jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor
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20 GAZETTE 10 May 2012
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GazetteMOTORS MOTORS
New Astra lives RoadSigns Road Signs CORMAC CURTIS
Eircom calls on Kuga for its new fleet IRELAND’S leading telecom services provider, Eircom, has taken delivery of 20 new Ford Kuga Commercial vehicles for its national team of radio site engineers. The Kuga is powered by Ford’s efficient 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine and has fourwheel drive capability, enabling the Eircom teams to gain easy access to off-road sites. Michael Lynch, head of transport and logistics for Eircom, said: “Our teams need a tough, reliable vehicle in their daily work and the initial reaction to the new Kuga has been very positive. The Kuga has the right mix of style, versatility and toughness.” Ford Ireland’s commercial vehicle sales and Marketing manager, Ciaran McMahon, said: “Our Kuga Commercial is the ideal stylish package for any business user who needs that little bit more muscle in their daily work. And with prices from €26,604, it truly is a great value package”.
Volkswagen claims number one spot VOLKSWAGEN Ireland has claimed the number 1 position in the Irish motor industry during April, with 867 registrations, a market share of 12.9%. So far this year, Volkswagen has registered 6,513 vehicles representing a market share of 12.3%, up 0.5% (on 2011). This performance places Volkswagen immediately behind Toyota, and suggests it is closing the gap. Commenting on the figures, John Donegan, head of sales and marketing for Volkswagen Ireland said: “We are delighted with our performance during April and credit must go to our dealership network and their exceptional efforts. “With a gap of just 200 registrations between Volkswagen Ireland and the top spot we will be doing our utmost to continue this strong performance in the second quarter of 2012 and maximise a strong order bank.” Volkswagen Ireland’s strong performance is against the backdrop of an overall motoring industry that year to date is 7.2 % down on 2011 with April down 22% on April 2011.
EAR in, year out, car companies the world ove r t e a s e u s with incredible concept designs that they promise indicate the direction their latest models are following. Unfortunately, year after year, what eventually rolls off the assembly line doesn’t quite live up to our, admittedly juvenile, expectations. A certain part of every driver’s psyche (well, mine at least) wants to see a car that breaks the rules and doesn’t apologise for it. I have an insatiable appetite for a car that has all the charm, character, looks and power of a James Bond villain, just in motoring form. Something that really has a menacing personality. So, when Opel released their concept images of the newest incarnation of the Astra GTC at the Paris Autoshow in 2010, not too many members of the motoring press held their breath in anticipation of the final product matching the beauty of the concept. How wrong were we? Very. With the exception of the alloys and the racing seats featured in the pre-release images, the Opel Astra GTC is almost exactly as promised. A s m a ny w i l l b e aware, the Astra hatchback has been held close to the hearts of many a young boy racer over the years. And, as those boy racers have matured, Opel have kept a close eye on how the Astra has developed to match the needs and, indeed, the desires of their customers. This time, though, the design team led by
Y
SPECS: OPEL ASTRA GTC 2.0-LITRE DIESEL SRI Engine: 2.0 CDTI Economy: 49.6mpg CO2 emissions: 127g Price: €27,995
Opel’s vice-president of design, Mark Adams, has produced something wonderful. You simply can’t help but grin from ear to ear when you lay eyes on this car. The contours appear to have been modelled on the lines in a speed tunnel, making the car’s profile similar to a cross section of an aeroplane’s wing. This thing looks like it’s moving when it’s standing still. External chrome has been kept to a stylish minimum – only appearing on the front grille and as a highlighting arc over the side windows. The front lights have all the subtlety of a snarling panther, and, at night, the effect is exaggerated with some beautifully designed illumination. Let’s just say you’ll notice this car from a mile off – and you will feel like giving it plenty of space and avoiding eye contact. This Astra is also the first Opel coupe that offers an option of 20” alloy wheels the model I tested was sporting this option, and I couldn’t imagine the car without them. The biggest issue for my kids is rear seats – do they have enough room, and can they buckle themselves in to their booster chairs? In the Astra GTC, this was, surprisingly, absolutely no problem. Not only that, but, both kids could even flip the front seats for ward themselves to get out. Practicality reaches further back in to the
The Astra GTC is well worth a test drive if you can drag yourself away from the beauty of the outside
car, as the boot provides between 380 and 1,165 litres of volume – over 200 litres more than some of the competition. I was impressed with the high-quality materials that feature in all GTCs, and with the attractive chromeedged instruments in deep-set binnacles that give drivers clear and well laid-out information. Standard on all GTCs are DAB stereo and USB functionality, while the SRi gets an onboard computer and leather-rimmed steering wheel. My test car came in a beautifully striking Morello Red, and featured the
new premium leather trim, and a six-way adjustable driver’s seat. I was relieved that the sports seats in this car were forgiving enough to allow me to drive in incredible comfort – which is not always the case with figure-hugging sports seats! This car would not be complete without some serious performance ability – and the 2.0CDTi packs 165PS with an exceptionally strong 350Nm of torque from just 1,750rpm. This helps it to a c h i e ve a 0 - 6 0 m p h time of just 8.4 seconds and 50-70mph in 6.4 seconds, together with a combined fuel consumption of 58.9mpg
and emissions of just 127g/km. In short, enough poke for some laugh-out-load fun on the road. Driver comfort is further enhanced as the engine is bolted in position via hydraulicallydamped mountings that minimise vibration through the body structure. Opel’s Start/ Stop system is fitted to all 2.0-CDTi models as standard and works nicely. So, there is a lot going on in the new Astra GTC, and it won me over quicker than it can reach 60mph. It’s well worth a test drive if you can drag yourself away from the beauty of the outside!
R1
up to expectations
10 May 2012 GAZETTE 21
22 GAZETTE 10 May 2012
GazetteTTRAVEL
Edited by Mimi Murray
Enjoy non-stop Las Vegas casino action
Cancun is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world
Enjoy the crisp ocean air in Cape Cod
AMERICA: BEAUTIFUL BEACHES, FANTASTIC THEME PARKS AND CARIBBEAN CRUISES
Get away to the USA hether you’re looking to see the beauty of Cape Cod, get Mickey Mouse’s autograph, or chance your luck in the casinos, American Holidays have some great US offers at the moment.
W
Orlando and Clearwater Beach
Stay 10 nights at the 4-star Crowne Plaza Universal Orlando and four nights at the 4-star Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort, with 14 nights car hire included, from only €1,049pp. The Crowne Plaza Universal Orlando Hotel, located on Universal Boulevard, is just a quick walk from Orlando’s world-renowned International Drive. It offers an outdoor pool, fitness and business centres, and offers high-speed and wireless internet access. Complimentary shuttles
whisk visitors from the hotel to SeaWorld, Wet ‘n’ Wild, and the Disney and Universal Orlando theme parks. Overlooking the Gulf of Mexico, the Hilton Clearwater Beach Resort stands on 10 acres of white-sand beach in Clearwater Beach and Pier 60, positioned adjacent to the resort, hosts nightly sunset celebrations. The Show Queen Riverboat is docked two blocks from the hotel. Price includes: Return flights from Dublin to Orlando, 14 nights accommodation and 14 nights car hire with fully inclusive insurance. Price based on two adults and two children sharing. Boston and Cape Cod
Spend three nights in the 3-star Midtown Hotel Boston and four nights in the 3-star Cape Codder Resort and Spa Hyannis from only €1,219pp
Centrally located in downtown Boston, the Midtown Hotel blends comfort and convenience with affordability. This moderately priced hotel, nestling in the heart of Boston’s Back Bay, puts the city at your doorstep. Boston is an exciting city to visit and the Midtown Hotel is the place to stay. At the award-winning Cape Codder Resort and Spa, enjoy the crisp ocean air and rolling sand dune scenery, providing numerous attractions, shopping and dining for its guests. Comfortable lodgings and excellent restaurants are available as is fun for all the family in the complex’s amazing indoor wave pool. Price includes: Return flights direct from Dublin to Boston with Aer Lingus, seven nights accommodation and four days car hire. Prices based on two adults sharing.
Orlando Stay and Western Caribbean Cruise
Stay five nights in the 3-star Rosen Inn Pointe Orlando Hotel and seven nights aboard Royal Caribbean’s Freedom of the Seas from only €1,329pp. Take the family to Orlando this Christmas and stay in the Rosen Inn Pointe Orlando Hotel on the famous International Drive, within driving distance of Universal Orlando, Sea World, Walt Disney World Theme Parks and many other Orlando attractions. The hotel also provides a complimentary scheduled shuttle transportation service to each of these attractions. The newly-enhanced Freedom of the Seas is a marvel of maritime engineering, packed with awesome innovations to stir your imagination. Catch a first-run movie in the 3D theatre or poolside under the stars on the outdoor movie
screen. Infuse colour into your cruise with the artworks of the BRITTO Gallery or with the frosted confections of the Cupcake Cupboard. Plus, enjoy all the revolutionary features Freedom of the Seas has always been known for - FlowRider surf simulator, rock climbing wall, ice-skating rink, Royal Promenade, cantilevered whirlpools, mini-golf course, H2O Zone water park, and much more. Price includes: Return flights from Dublin to Orlando, five nights accommodation in Orlando, seven nights full-board cruise and taxes. Excludes gratuities. Terms and conditions apply. Price based on two adults sharing. Las Vegas and Cancun
Stay three nights in the 3-star Excalibur Hotel and seven nights in the 3-star Viva Wynham Maya in Cancun, Mexico from only €1,479pp.
Stay in royal accommodations in the Excalibur Hotel in the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. Excalibur offers everything you’d expect from a Las Vegas hotel - from top-notch dining and entertainment, to non-stop Las Vegas casino action. Surrounded by pristine beaches and submerged among coral reefs, the Viva Wynham Maya is enchanted by ancient Mayan ruins. The all-inclusive resort experience shines with a seemingly endless array of exciting possibilities. Dine at one of seven restaurants, offering a tempting array of cuisines in a variety of beautiful settings. Price includes: Return flights, internal flight, 10 nights accommodation and airport transfers in Cancun. Prices based on two adults sharing. Call American Holidays to book on 01 6733800.
10 May 2012 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 23
24 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 10 May 2012
GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT !
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Seann William Scott and Jason Biggs explain to the rest of the gang what it felt like to have a career beyond the American Pie films. Out of shot, Chris Klein plots Rollerball 2.
This slice is stale Thirteen years after their first adventure, the American Pie gang are reunited, but they’ve left the charm behind I PAUL HOSFORD
AVENGERS Assemble may have announced the arrival of summer in cineplexes, but another reluctant team are coming together this week to fight off their own demons and play dress up. Unfortunately for the cast of American Pie: Reunion, Joss Whedon didn’t work his magic on the fourth (or eighth, depending on whether you class direct to video sequels) instalment of the series. Because, whereas the characters you know and love are back, they are basically the same people. Sure, Jim (Jason Biggs) and Michelle (Alyson Hannigan) are now parents of a two-year-old, Oz (Chris Klein) has become a sports caster with a blonde girlfriend ( 3 0 R o c k ’s K a t r i n a Bowden).
FILM OF THE WEEK: American Pie: Reunion ### (15) 113 mins Directors: Jon Hurwitz, Hayden Schlossberg Starring: Jason Biggs, Seann William Scott, Alyson Hannigan, Chris Klein, Tara Reid, Eugene Levy, Mena Suvari, Jennifer Coolidge
OUR VERDICT: ONLY nostalgia gets this film such a high score. A film without characters as warmly built and easily recognised may have dipped below three stars. That said, there are genuinely funny parts and some that are laced with the good-hearted sweetness that made the series so successful. It is definitely worth a watch, but not worth rushing to.
Kevin (Thomas Ian Nicholas) has settled into the life of a househusband, Finch (Eddie Kaye Thomas) is a welltravelled man of the world, Mena Suvari’s Heather is a doctor, Stif ler’s (Seann William Scott) still Stifler, and Tara Reid’s Vicky is... living in New York, which is all we learn, but that’s ok because her character was the worst. So, 13 years after their graduation, the gang are back in town for a reunion and all ruminating on how their
lives haven’t gone as expected. It’s an odd fit, trying to make a mid-life crisis comedy of a franchise that got famous for its unconventional use of baked goods. So, we have the gang wistfully looking at the kids these days, wondering where their own youth has gone and alternately being their usual selves, which is the film’s biggest flaw. Jim will have his customary mishap, Finch will become obsessive about a toilet, Oz and Heather will look at
each other doe-eyed, Stif ler will scam on younger girls and get the best lines, while Kevin and Vicky will continue to be massive, lumberingly unfunny, millstones around the neck of the franchise. Directors Hur witz and Schlossberg created the Harold and Kumar series, itself a race-concious homage to American Pie, so you would feel that this project was right in their wheel-house. Unfor tunately, the pair seem to have mistaken watching the first film for making the fourth. Most of the jokes are callbacks to the original instalment, and nothing more than that. The only character given room to grow is Jim’s Dad, played with typical dryness by Eugene Levy. With his wife, Jim’s Mom, dead, his attempts
to get back into the dating game are peppered with brilliant Levy dialogue. Of course, there is the inevitable meeting with Stifler’s Mom (Jennifer Coolidge) and the two play off each other magnificently. But, this all feels like an afterthought. Like somewhere through filming, someone pointed out that Levy and Coolidge are two gifted comedians and the fans would probably like to see them get together. The actors struggle manfully with the material and, to an extent, seeing characters that you have built a genuine affection for back on the screen isn’t the worst way to spend two hours, but that alone just isn’t enough. This is why reunions are short-lived affairs; after the initial buzz of being back together, you realise why you left.
10 May 2012 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 25
GazetteGAMING GAMING Blackberry’s battle SHANE DILLON
IT’S not that long ago when the (then) ubiquitous Blackberry was half-jokingly referred to as the “Crackberry”, given its near-addictive hold over its owners, and their seemingly constant need to be toying with it, checking up on their emails. Flash forward a few short years, and Blackberry’s maker, Research in Motion (RIM) faces terribly civilised barbarians at the gate, in the form of Apple and Samsung – but barbarians, nonetheless, threatening to hack and slash what remains of the Blackberry’s collapsed share of the mobile smartphone/ internet phone market.
In a bid to beat back its rivals’ ever-advancing pincer movements, RIM’s alchemists have emerged with the Blackberry 10 – an almost all-ornothing device that RIM hopes is the secret weapon it needs to guarantee its survival, or, at the very least, provide some market breathing space. Of course, as an awful lot of current-gen Blackberry owners will tell you, there’s nothing very “wrong” with their devices – it’s just that the general expectation of the mass market for what their phones (at heart) can do has shifted, incrementally, with the public perception that, foot by foot, RIM has been left behind on the way to the all-conquering peak of
Research in Motion (RIM) chief, Thorsten Heins, unveils the Blackberry 10 (inset) at RIM’s annual BlackBerry World gathering in Orlando, last week
market dominance. And so, the Blackberry 10 has a number of contemporary features, with de rigueur touchscreen helping to maximise a new OS aimed at keeping pace with its peers (assuming, of course, developers row in behind the new OS – given the
comparative paucity of Blackberry apps, they have to). However, what’s most striking, from the prototype, is that the iconic ke y b o a r d h a s b e e n ditched, in line with modern smartphone stylings, helping to retool the Blackberry into a more
streamlined smartphone. With shareholders fielding blows to stock values, profit warnings and its first quarterly loss, coupled with other woes, RIM’s bosses must be praying Blackberry 10 can beat back the hordes, or the Blackberry’s very future could be axed ...
Bytesandpieces Puppets string out a fun Fable FROM chicken-kicking to lute-playing, the Fable series of games has always had much more to do than merely saving the kingdom, for those looking for a dash of fun with their adventuring. Now, building on the wellestablished world seen throughout the series, we’re presented with Fable Heroes, a not-entirely-obvious (but fun, nonetheless) title launching on XBox Live Arcade, priced 800 Microsoft points. Adding to the rush of quality titles winging their way to Live Arcade, Fable Heroes sees bright, colourful and intensely competitive multiplayer action rolling out across the land of Albion, with puppet heroes joining forces to battle evil, level up their characters, unlock ever-greater weapons and powers and compete for gold rewards. As for any chicken-kicking – well, play the game to see ... Anticipated with some puzzlement by the gaming press, the silly, cheeky and intense battles are lots of fun, presented with a gorgeous art style in the instantly memorable land of Albion. Boss battles, party games and side-scrolling action are certainly fun reasons to sally forth with your hero.
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26 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 10 May 2012
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DUN LAOGHAIRE -RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL
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Hogan & Associates seeks Planning Permission for extending existing pitched tiled roof to the front to form gable style dormer with window and to the rear to form full gable with window, forming dormers to the south side with high level windows and fitting roofwindows to the north side of the house at Number 117, Lower Churchtown Road, Churchtown, Dublin 14 for John Kirwan & Mary Gilligan. The application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, County Hall, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin during opening hours from 10am - 4 pm Monday - Friday excluding Bank Holidays. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt of the application by the planning authority.
Permisson is sought for Proposed front extension single storey 1.5m deep. New 2 storey extension to rear with attic conversion and new velux rooflights to rear, new window ground floor to side at 15 Llewellyn Lawn, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16 by Anne Roche THE PLANNING APPLICATION MAY BE INSPECTED OR PURCHASED AT A FEE NOT EXCEEDING THE REASONABLE COST OF MAKING A COPYAT THE OFFICES OF THE PLANNING AUTHORITY, COUNTY HALL, DUN LAOGHAIRE , DURING ITS PUBLIC OPENING HOURS. A SUBMISSION / OBSERVATION MAY BE MADE ON PAYMENT OF €20 WITHIN A PERIOD OF 5 WEEKS FROM THE DATE THE APPLICATION IS RECEIVED BY THE PLANNING AUTHORIT Y.
Permission is sought by the Board of Management of Mount Anville Senior School to: • Replace a 2 level toilet block with a 3 level block over partial basement containing teaching, recreational and office spaces with glazed link to existing school. • A new plaza entrance will be provided in front of this extension. • Reorganise existing school road system including miscellaneous revisions to parking layout, alterations to traffic patterns etc. • Alteration of existing vehicular exit gate to allow for traffic to exit in two directions. • Provide new signage at entrance. • Provide new off-line bus bay on Mount Anville Road to replace existing in-line bus bay. All at Mount Anville School, Mount Anville Road, Goatstown, Dublin 14 (part of which is a Protected Structure). The application may be inspected/ 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 (Mon-Friday). A submission/observation may be made on payment of €20, within a period of five weeks from the date the application is lodged with the Planning Authority.
15504
15088
15489
DUN LAOGHAIRE -RATHDOWN COUNTY COUNCIL
Permission is sought for single story extension to right hand side and rear of property consisting of dining room, study and living room totalling 62 sq. metres at Number 23a Glenamuck Cottages, Glenamuck Road, Carrickmines, Dublin 18 by Mr & Mrs O’Sullivan. 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, County Hall, Dun Laoghaire during its public opening hours. A submission/observation may be made on payment of €20 within a period of five weeks from the date the application is received by the planning authority. 15506
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We, Gheel Autism Services Ltd., apply for planning permission for development at 1-3 Hortlands, Sandyford Road, Dublin 18. The development will consist of a single-story extension to the rear, a single-storey, detached sunroom, demolition of 3 garages, all to the rear, erection of new boundary wall to side, provision of vehicular entrance and 3 offstreet car parking spaces and landscaping works. The 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 five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. 15520
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GazetteSPORT
WONDER WARD:
Portmarnock’s Ireland star on his hopes for Euro 2012: Page 29
GOLF: KELLOGG’S SKILLS COMPETITION TO TEST THE BEST OF COUNTRY’S GOLFERS
Challenge is set for Dublin’s golfing stars sport@gazettegroup.com
GOLFERS all over the city are being called upon to show their skills in a new initiative from the Golfing Union of Ireland and Kellogg’s. The Kellogg’s NutriGrain Golf Skills Challenge competition, which is being run to mark a new partnership between the organisations, aims to find Ireland’s most skilled golfers.
There are seven skills involved in the challenge — driving, 135metre shot, pitching, up-and-down, bunker play, difficult lies and putting. There will be a number of regional qualif ying events, from which qualifiers will progress to a national final. These include qualifying events at Donabate Golf Club on Friday, June 22 and Hollystown Golf Club on Friday, August
10, prior to the national finat at the GUI National Golf Academy at Carton Demense. Ireland rugby player and Kellogg NutriG r a i n a m b a s s a d o r, Rob Kearney, attended the launch of the new partnership at the GUI National Golf Academy, and said: “As a professional athlete, I fully appreciate the need to practise basic skills and drills day in, day out. If I could bring the disci-
Rob Kearney (right) with pro at the GUI Academy, Kenny Fahey, and Jim McNeill of Kellogg Ireland
pline and time I devote to r ugby to my golf game, I’m sure I could drop another few shots off my handicap.” Speaking on behalf of the GUI National Golf Academy, Alan Kelly
said: “T he Kellogg’s Nutri-Grain Golf Skills Challenge presents golfers from around Ireland the opportunity to challenge themselves and really make all their practice pay off.
T he idea of skills challenge came about after we saw the reaction to our short game clinics over the last couple of years, and now we have the opportunity to establish the challenge
in golf clubs.” The competition is open to all golfers over the age of 18, who have an official GUI or ILGU handicap. Online entry is available at w w w. learntogolf.ie.
28 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 10 May 2012
GazetteSport Sport
Henry Shefflin with Ellie Pears, Kerrie, Peter and David Gannon, Kian Kayla McEneaney has her face painted
Durkin and Darragh McGibney
Conal Keaney and friends at Ballyboden
Family Event Community matters at Ballyboden T HE first Centra Brighten Up Your Day Community Event took place at Ballyboden St Enda’s GAA club at the end of last month. The free family event featured two of Centra’s GAA hurling ambassadors, Dublin and Ballyboden star Conal Keaney and Henry Shefflin from Kilkenny, who hosted a hurling skills session for children. In addition, there was some cracking family fun including face painting, a hurling skills simulator and a barbecue by local Centra retailers. There will be more community events like this running until Saturday, July 28, and for more information log onto www.centra.ie or Facebook.com/centraireland.
Henry Shefflin, Conal Keaney and trainer Donagh O’Donnell with participants during the Centra Brighten Up Your Day GAA Community Event
Henry Shefflin and Conal Keaney with Centra’s Breda Cahill, Fergal Scolard, Michael Moyles, Alan Henry points out the positives
Jordan and participants Stephen Pullan and Paul O’Mahony Cotter
10 May 2012 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 29
Green manifesto for Euro glory
FastSport
Stephen Ward is set to put a tough season behind him when he travels to Poland with Ireland for Euro 2012, writes STEPHEN FINDLATER AT TIMES, Stephen Ward has to pinch himself. His most vivid childhood memories were defined by Ireland’s appearance in major international tournaments, but now he stands ready to take his European championships bow. As a four-year-old, he remembers “causing carnage” at street parties in 1990. In 2002, his parents “allowed” him to skip a fifth-year engineering exam to watch Robbie Keane strike late for a 1-1 draw against Germany in the World Cup. Now, it is the Portmarnock man’s time to shine on the international stage.
Stephen Ward
Wolves’ relegation from the English Premier League means his focus is already firmly trained on Poland and, hopefully, Ukraine, with the time to create new memories on the agenda.
but I can still remember street parties, no cars and tables up the road. I knew something big was going on. “From there, I remember where I was for all the games in 1994 and 2002.
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‘There are still a lot of players over here that could make it in England but it’s just about a manager taking a chance on you’
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“Your best memories are when Ireland are in major tournaments,” he said at the launch of the FAI Summer Schools this week. “I was only four in 1990
It’s a dream come true. For kids growing up now, hopefully, this will be part of their memories and we can give them some of the highlights.” Having such a carrot has offered some respite for Ward. He has played every minute of Wolves’ ultimately doomed campaign this term, one of the club’s top performers in an ultimately forgettable campaign. Such setbacks, indeed, do not always lead to a loss of form. In 2002, Matt Holland bounced back from relegation with Ipswich to score for the Republic in their opening World Cup game against Cameroon. It is an irony not lost on Ward when reminded of the stat: “I’d take that! It’s not nice going as a relegated player. “It’s been devastating, but the writing has been on the wall for a few weeks, so we’ve had a bit
of time to reflect on what has happened.” Terr y Connor has offered Ward a chance to rest in recent weeks but is keen to finish off a complete season and build toward Poland. It is quite the position to be in for the former Bohs’ man who opted to stay in Dublin at the start of his professional career rather than move across the water in his mid-teens, owing a lot to club mate, Kevin Doyle. “I certainly don’t feel I’d be where I am today if it wasn’t for the League of Ireland.
Opportunity “It definitely helped me grow up. Hand on heart, I don’t know how I would have reacted going away at 16, moving to an environment where everyone is trying to make it. “Doyler opened a door for a lot of people with how easy he took to it in his first season. He keeps telling me I owe him! It is true, though. “If he hadn’t gone over and done as well as he did, we wouldn’t have this opportunity. There are still a lot of players over here that could make it in England but it’s just about a manager taking a chance on you.” Ireland manager, Giovanni Trapattoni was another to take a chance on Ward, and he has become a key player on the left in recent time.
So much so, he is now in a position to emulate the vintage of Jack Charlton’s 1-0 victory over Italy in 1994 – one Ward watched enthralled with 15 family members in his house. “No one gave us a chance in that game, and no one will do that against Spain. I know it’s a different scale, but you look at what Chelsea did to Barcelona, it can happen – these teams can be beaten. In the last World Cup, Spain lost to Switzerland and went on to win it. “They can slip up and, hopefully if they do, it will be against us. I think we can shock a lot of people. Not many people will give us a chance of getting out of our group. I think that will suit us. “We always seem to do well with an underdog tag. We’re going there with a world-class manager. Qualifying is down to him and the way he prepares us. Obviously there are better technical teams in the tournament – Spain and Italy are among the best teams in the world. But when it comes to 90 minutes, we can make it really tough for anyone. “The first game will be vital but if we’re still in contention coming into the Italy game, we’ll have a great chance of progressing. After that, you just hope you can go as far as possible.”
GOAL calls on Transition students to get active TRANSITION year students throughout Dublin are being challenged to take on their teachers as part of a new annual multi-sport challenge taking place during May in aid of humanitarian agency, GOAL. Launched nationwide last week, the GOAL Sports Challenge provides all schoolchildren — from junior infants right up to Leaving Certificate level – with the opportunity to compete against each other in a wide range of popular sports and games. The event is aimed at boosting fitness levels amongst children and teenagers, and raising money and awareness for some of GOAL’s programmes for vulnerable children throughout the developing world. Teachers are also being encouraged to participate, by either taking part in as many events as they can, or by arranging and supervising games for the younger children. “We expect the students versus the teachers event, in sports like rugby, soccer, Gaelic football or hurling to capture the imagination of most schools, but we have proposed a number of other games, such as skipping, hula-hoop rolling, long puck and long kick events, GOAL miles and relays as types of events that will suit boys and girls of all ages and fitness levels,” said GOAL’s development education officer, Maeve Seery. “However, schools are more than welcome to come up with their own ideas, too. “We have also suggested Friday, May 11, as a day to hold the GOAL Sports Challenge, but it may be easier for schools to run the event at another time, whether it is during a sports day, a lunch break, or even a PE class.” Participating children and teachers are being encouraged to donate whatever they can afford towards GOAL. For more information, including tips and guidelines for individual games, students and teachers should log on to www.goal.ie, or call Maeve at GOAL on 01-2809 779.
30 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 10 May 2012
GazetteSport Sport FastSport
HOCKEY: LATE, LATE SCORE STRUCK OUT FOR LOCAL LADIES
A disappointed Loreto after the Irish Hockey League final at Hillsborough ended in defeat
DLSP trip to London Irish an inspiring one FOR THE 29th consecutive year, over 55 minis players from De La Salle Palmerston’s Under-11 and 12 sides attended the London Irish Five Nations Festival at Sunbury last weekend. Since their inaugural visit to London Irish in 1983, over 1,500 players have represented Salmo at Sunbury, some of who have seen their rugby careers develop to senior international and British and Irish Lions success, including Malcolm O’Kelly and Luke Fitzgerald. All the teams competed well in their respective groups, in particular against their fellow Irish clubs, with draws against Blackrock, UL Bohs and a hard-fought win over Clontarf. The Under-12s team reached the Plate semi-final, where they were beaten by the hosts, London Irish. Of the team to represent DLSP at this year’s festival, many had joined the Salmo Mini’s at Under-6 level, where coach Dave Hicks introduced them to the oval game. Since then, under the guidance of head coach, Norman Byrne, assisted by Barry Murphy, John Feaney, Barry Kelly and Jim Fehan, the team have evolved into a very tight unit with a squad of over 40 players. The club were certain to include Ross Barron, pictured above, who was unlucky to be injured in the lead up to the tournament, but who insisted on being a part of the travelling party to London. Head coach, Byrne, appointed him as tour manager, with responsibility for team talks prior to all the games. Thanks to Ross’s words of wisdom and inspiration, all the teams performed superbly and did their club proud. The club are looking forward to their 30th trip to the English capital next year for the anniversary event.
Loreto denied in IHL decided sport@gazettegroup.com
LORETO’S dream of a second women’s Irish Hockey League crown came to a frustrating end when they were denied a late equaliser in the competition’s final in Hillsborough last Sunday in chaotic circumstances. Extra-time looked the most likely recourse when Nicci Daly roofed a sublime shot from a narrow angle on the right of the circle, but a score from her beautiful late reprieve was not to be had. Just prior to her shot rippling the net,
the umpire’s whistle peeped, citing the shot to be dangerous, though few others in the ground saw it that way. The aftermath drew vehement complaints and a debate, first with her fellow umpire, the captains and the technical bench, as confusion reigned. Despite a lengthy inquiry, no reason to change the decision was offered by any of the officials, leaving an uneasy feeling around the Comber Road grounds. Railway coach Mick McKinnon felt for Loreto’s plight, but was keen
to focus on his side’s exploits, saying afterwards: “I’m so proud of our girls so I’d rather talk about them and I hope it doesn’t take the tarnish off what is a victory. “I feel for Loreto but it’s not our doing. It is ver y harsh with the timing but it’s swings and roundabouts with umpires’ decisions.”
Winning ways Loreto had overcome reigning champions, Pegasus, in the semi-final last Sunday, 1-0, with Daly the goalscorer. The first half of the final was tight with
chances scarce, and a couple of penalty corners each were the only main openings of note, with defenders like Hannah Matthews and Isobel Joyce excelling. The latter was only playing due to a late release from Irish cricket duties in England, where play was rained off, joining the panel at the last minute with her twin sister, Cecelia. And Cecelia was pivotal in the only goal, crashing a ball from just outside the 25 that was miscontrolled by a Loreto defender, falling perfectly for O’Halloran to clatter home.
It was a lead that was comfortably held until the late Alamo charge. There was a warning shot 80 seconds from time when a routine free-in found Lizzie Colvin unattended, her shot bouncing wide. A repeating situa t i o n , t h o u g h , s aw Sarah Clarke pick out an unmarked Daly for a rare shot of quality before the whistle intervened. A last second penalty corner went a begging, too – perhaps sympathetically awarded – for the Beaufort side, but ultimately the laurels went Railway’s way.
McGinley’s seventh at Ballantine’s sport@gazettegroup.com
GRANGE man Paul McGinley produced his biggest pay-cheque for over two-and-a-half years when he took a share of seventh place at the Ballantine’s Championship in Korea last week, netting €51,067 for his efforts. He completed his tournament with a round of 70, closing out the competition with a tidy birdie to finish on nine under par, finishing in the top ten for the first time since the KLM Open last September. The result saw him move up
to 98th in the Race to Dubai and was his biggest income since the 2009 Alfred Dunhill Link Championships as he seeks to secure a full European Tour card, something seen as vital for his credentials as a potential Ryder Cup captaincy in the coming years. Speaking about the performance, the Rathfarnham man was pleased with how his game shaped up: “I played very well. I had a double-bogey on the ninth which took the wind out of my sails a bit, but I did really well to regroup on the back nine.
“It does bode well. Hopefully, I’ll have a good season, and I’m particularly looking forward to the Irish Open. “I think it’s going to be great this year in Portrush [at the Irish Open]. I played there last week and it was nice to see the course again. I have not played it since I was an amateur. I’m ooking forward to going up there, and as I say, a lot to look forward to. “I think this is only my fourth event this year, and now from Wentworth, which is my next event, I’ll play a full schedule from then on.”
10 May 2012 DUNDRUM GAZETTE 31
FOOTBALL: THIRD NATIONAL TITLE IN A DECADE a
CLUB NOTICEBOARD BALLYBODEN ST ENDA’S MANY thanks to all who helped
Congratulations to Claire King,
organise La na gClub and the Cian
Aoife O’Brien and Maria McGrath on
Durkin Tournament.
winning the minor Ladies’ Football
Sincere appreciation to David Sweeney, Paul Ryan, Simon Lambert and Gary Maguire on being special
Leinster title. The summer camp will run this year from July 9 to August 31.
guests at the presentation of med-
Application forms will be available
als to the 2011 minor A and B hurling
shortly on http://www.ballyboden-
league winners.
summercamp.com.
Hurling Section Table Quiz takes
Lotto: Week 42 numbers drawn
place in the clubhouse on Thursday,
were 15, 6, 13 and 11. The jackpot of
May 17.
€10,000 not won.
ST JUDE’S HUGE congratulations to our latest
Congratulations to Ciaran and
All- Ireland champions, John Brian
Catherine McLoughlin on the birth
Carthy and Paul Maguire, who both
of baby Dan Charles on Sunday last.
played for Dublin in the All-Ireland
Another hurler to add to the ranks.
U-21 football final victory over Roscommon in Tullamore. Well done lads you did yourselves and your club proud. Well done to all the boys who played Dublin manager Jim Gavin and team captain Kevin O’Brien with the All-Ireland trophy
Dublin secure AllIreland U-21 crown ALL-IRELAND U-21 FINAL Dublin Roscommon
2-12 0-11
I sport@gazettegroup.com
ST JUDE’S John Brian Carthy kept a clean sheet for the Dublin U-21s when they claimed the county’s third Clark Cup with victory over Roscommon in Tullamore last Sunday, adding to the Sky Blues’ success at this level in 2003 and 2010. He was one of two club members from the Tymon North club with Paul Maguire also in the panel. The Dubs finished like a freight train to capture the title, with manager Jim Gavin becoming the first Dublin manager to lead the county to two All-Ireland glories, having managed the team in 2010. Dublin led 1-5 to 0-6 at the interval thanks in part to the clinical accuracy of Paul Hudson. Indeed, it was the Thomas Davis sniper whose
goal in added time in the first half that proved to be the only major of the first half, after he skillfully jab-lifted the ball before rifling to the roof of the Roscommon net. The goal arrived in the 32nd minute when John Kelly’s delivery was broken down by Ciaran Kilkenny, and Hudson showed terrific guile to find the net. The Dubs could really have held a stronger advantage, but failed to convert possession into scores, and were guilty of not combining to telling effect up front as the Rossies dominated territory and possession for the first 30 minutes. Roscommon threw caution to the wind after the restart and were rewarded with four points without reply as the lively Donie Smith (two), Cian Connolly and Colin Compton were all on target. But when his side needed him most, Emmet
O’Conghaile regained a foothold for the Dubs at centrefield, while the introduction of Paddy O’Higgins, like nearly all the substitutions, helped to turn the balance of power the way of Gavin’s men in a frenetic second half. At the back, the likes of team captain, Kevin O’Brien, and Sean George kept their opponents at bay with some heroic defending. Now on the front foot, Dublin began to open up Roscommon with some direct running from the likes of Gary Sweeney and sub Harry Dawson and, over the concluding ten minutes, Dublin hit 1-6 without reply as they turned on the turbo drive to finally shake off a very committed Roscommon side. Ciaran Kilkenny put in an excellent last ten minutes, while centreback John Kelly’s points summed up the “never say die” attitude of the Dublin team as they
stretched themselves to the limit to capture victory. Deep in injury time, Paul Mannion raised Dublin’s second green flag after being denied at the original attempt, to add All-Ireland glory to Dublin’s provincial success.
DUBLIN - JB Carthy; S George, K O’Brien, M Concar, L Fletcher, J Kelly, J McCaffrey, E O’Conghaile, C Reddin, G Sweeney, D Byrne, M Schutte, P Hudson, P Ryan, C Kilkenny. S u b s : P M a g u i re fo r Schutte (ht), G Seaver for Byrne (34), H Dawson for Ryan (41), P O’Higgins for Reddin (42), P Mannion for Hudson (58).
winner, and Paul Crennan and Donal Evoy matched three numbers. The jackpot remains at €12,700.
in last Saturday’s Feile. Both teams
Naomh Jude Bingo is in the back
played very well and were a credit
bar at 8pm as usual next Wednesday
to the club.
night (and every Wednesday night).
Hard luck to Tom Devlin, Shane Gibbons and Fionn O’Rionn who played
Calling will begin at 8.15pm sharp. All welcome.
for the Dublin minors on Saturday
Condolences to Martin Molamphy
it was a great game, and the Dubs
on the death of his brother Tom of
were unlucky to lose after extra-
Ballina. Ar dheis de go raibh a anam
time.
dilis.
WANDERERS THERE was no winner of last week’s
playing members €50. No player is
lotto. Numbers drawn were 1, 5 and 18.
eligible to play unless fully paid up as
€25 goes to Chloe Walsh, Maeve Walsh
of February 29.
and Ashling Brady. Jackpot next week
Non-playing members are entitled
is €3,000. Note: You can now choose
to apply for Dublin tickets if fully paid
numbers from 1 to 36.
up only. Contact Damian on 086 863
€100 annual subscription to Lotto also available, contact any committee member for details. Membership deadline has now
SCORERS: Dublin: P Hudson 1-4, C Kilkenny 0-4 (0-1f), P Mannion 1-0, P Ryan, J Kelly, G Seaver, H Dawson 0-1 each. Roscommon: D Smith 0- 4 (0-2f ), C Compton 0-3 (0-1f), D Keane, C Connolly 0-2 each.
Last week’s lotto numbers were 1, 4, 12 and 17. There was no jackpot
passed. Playing members €100, non-
2565. Adult men’s junior A and B players training continues on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7.30pm in Frank Kelly Park.
NAOMH OLAF THE 15th Naomh Olaf Annual Golf
mott. Dermott and Kate are long-
Classic takes place in Edmondstown
standing club members and both
Golf Cub on Friday, May 25. This is a
devoted a huge amount of time to
very significant fundraiser for the
club activities over the years.
club and support through sponsor-
Sympathy is extended to the Walsh
ship or otherwise would be much
family, and to the Stars of Erin GAA
appreciated.
Club on the death of Paddy Walsh.
Congratulations to Sean Saun-
Congratulations to the boys’ foot-
ders, Dun Emer and Hillary Cal-
ball Feile teams who did us proud
lanan, Booterstown, on their recent
today in Division 2 and Division 9. It
wedding in beautiful Dingle. Nearly
wasn’t to be our year, but the team
half of Naomh Olaf appeared to be
mentors and players did us proud.
in Kerry for this event over the weekend. Sympathy is expressed to the Irwin family, Balally, on the passing of Kate Irwin, loving wife of Der-
Congratulations to the two girls’ football teams who also did us proud at Feile two weeks ago. There was no winner of this weeks lotto.
ALL OF YOUR DUNDRUM SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31
LORETO’S LAMENT: Dramatic Daly goal chalked off in All-Ireland final P31
MAY 10, 2012
MAKING MEMORIES: Ward spies potential Euro surprise package P29
Trap hands Duff ticket to Poland
GazetteSPORT
Damien Duff brings experience of a major tournament to Giovanni Trapattoni’s Republic of Ireland panel. Picture: Fergus McNally
Ballyboden man named in Republic of Ireland panel to travel to the Euro 2012 in four weeks’ time dundrumsport@gazettegroup.com
FORMER Leicester Celtic man Damien Duff was named last Monday in Giovanni Trapattoni’s Republic of Ireland panel to travel to Euro 2012, travelling to his second major championship. He is one of four players who bring that kind of tournament experience – along with Shay Given, Richard Dunne and Robbie Keane – having played in the 2002 World Cup a decade ago. Indeed, Poland could be the scene for Duff’s 100th cap should he also play in the pre-tournament build-up games, starting with a tie against Bosnia on May 26. Making the announcement, the Republic of Ireland manager Trapattoni said: “I had a very difficult task in choosing this 23-man squad. “Several players have proven their abilities to us during the qualifying campaign, and we are thankful to all who have played a part. However, we are happy with our choices.
“We will look to emulate the attitude and performance that brought us qualification, and push our limits further as we prepare for this tournament. We will be focused as we enter this important time.” Trapattoni elaborated that while his charges may not come from the illustrious European clubs of group rivals Croatia, Italy and Spain, the grit and determination shown in qualifying mean the opposition know they have a battle on their hands.
Colleagues “I think my colleagues respect us,” he said at the announcement. “In Italy and also in Croatia I have friends and the managers there say that Ireland is a strong team with a strong mentality. “Spain’s manager was an important player. I played against Vicente, I know him and he knows me. Also the Croatia manager, he played in Germany and he knows me because we played against his club.
“Prandelli was my player. So I don’t think any of my colleagues would be arrogant enough to think they are superior. “My philosophy is to be careful. I saw a team this week that is threatened with relegation make two mistakes and concede two goals. “That is why I always say that games can be decided by the little details. Italy at the last World Cup lost because of a throw-in. This week this team lost because of a lack of attention. “I don’t know at these European Championships if there will be a situation like this but what is important is that we believe in our quality and our system. “We have work to do. We have to improve, but we have to believe in what we can achieve together. “Our second game is against Spain. Then maybe the third game will decide but (if Ireland beat Croatia) we can think about not only Spain but Italy. I think yes, the third game can decide it.”