Swords

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YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER

INSIDE: Enjoying a barbecue in the old school house P2

All-Ireland: Flynn ready for Kerry test at Croke Park Page 32

Motorracing: Local driver on life in Japanese F3 fast lane Page 29

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ......................8 MOTORS ........................18 BUSINESS ................... 20 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

September 15, 2011

ENTERPRISE WEEK: Launching a jam-packed programme See Page 10

Experts to help resolve pyrite issues Q MIMI MURRAY

AN independent working group that will facilitate hundreds of homeowners whose properties have been affected by pyrite in North Dublin, has been set up by the Minister for the Environment, Phil Hogan.

The announcement was welcomed this week by Fine Gael Dublin North TD Alan Farrell, whose own home has

been affected by the problem.

“Having experienced the issue with my own home, I have been through almost five years of strife and worry that came with the discovery of pyrite. I welcome the formation of an independent expert group that will have the interests of the homeowners in mind,” he said.

Full Story on Page 4

A model occasion: Top agent John Compton ties the knot ONE of Ireland’s top model agents,

John Compton, recently tied the knot with Marlon Jimenez, his partner of seven years. The pair celebrated this momentous event in their lives with family and friends.

The guest list included plenty of stars from the world of modelling, ensuring that the occasion had plenty of glitz and glamour.

Picture: Una Williams

Full Gallery on Pages 8-9

2 SWORDS GAZETTE 15 September 2011

EVENT Fine Gael enjoy a barbecue in the old school house EXHIBITIONS: ALL YOU NEED FOR YOUR BIG DAY

Wedding Showcase for Skerries A UNIQUE Wedding Showcase taking place in Skerries on Sunday, September 18, will give local brides and grooms the opportunity to meet the best the north County Dublin area has to offer in terms of wedding suppliers, each a leader in their field.

Brides will be spoiled for choice, with the exhibitors, which include a floral designer, wedding car company, wedding videographer and even entertainment for guests among many others, all, for one day, c o nve n i e n t l y l o c a ted under one roof at DesignWorks Photography Studio, 26 Church Street, Skerries.

This is the second year the showcase is being held in Skerries, which is fast becoming the place to plan a wedding with so many award-winning wedding professionals hailing from the town and its surrounds.

With talks and demonstrations from the wedding experts, goodie bags, a great competition and many exclusive offers on the day, every engaged couple will walk away armed with lots of information.

The goodie bags will, once again, include a free booklet written by the wedding experts, filled with insider ’s advice on every aspect of planning your wedding.

The cosy nature of the venue also ensures attendees will have time to speak properly with each expert and allow them to answer any questions they may have about their preparations, giving them invaluable insights into the mammoth task of planning a wedding.

Couples will leave feeling they received a real consultation rather than a quick sales pitch.

GAA fans also won’t lose out on the day as the All-Ireland Senior football final will be broadcast live on a screen in a corner of the studio, avoiding many arguments.

The showcase was the brainchild of Skerries photographer, Denise Cannon.

“Many brides and grooms I speak with are working to a much tighter budget than ever before and are looking for better value for their money,’’ says Denise.

“Weddings are expensive to plan so people are shopping around more and want to take their time choosing how they spend their money.

“A boutique showcase such as ours is ideal for them as they will have the time to really get to know the person they are potentially hiring for what is, possibly, the most important day of their lives.”

Constituency chairperson Jason Fitzharris, Minister Leo Varadkar and Swords Branch chairperson, Di Sexton

Michael Marron and Cllr Eithne Loftus

Cllr Anne Devitt

HE Old Schoolhouse in Swords was the venue for a recent barbecue held by the Swords branch of the Fine Gael party. Local people were invited to enjoy the relaxed atmosphere as well as plenty of tasty food off the barbecue.

There was also plenty of debate, on local issues as well as to the state of the country.

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Minister James Reilly, Swords Branch chairperson Di Sexton and councillor Kieran Dennison

15 September 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 3

Marking ten years: Exhibition SWORDS Photographic Group celebrated its 10th anniversary by holding a photographic exhibition in the lobby of Fingal County Council civic offices, Main Street, Swords.

Pictured at the event were Anne Creedon, committee member; Elaine Hughes, organising group; Martin King, organising group; Derek Slater, organising group; Mayor of Fingal Gerry McGuire; Michael Johnston, formerly Fingal Council Arts Dept; Joan Slater, treasurer and Bryan Campion, secretary.

BREAKFAST BRIEFING: CHAMBERS

Get your business ready for winter Q MIMI MURRAY

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swords@gazettegroup.com

‘This Breakfast Briefing is an ideal opportunity to network with other business men and women’

A KEEP Your Business Moving T his Winter Breakfast Briefing will be hosted by Fingal Dublin Chamber and D15 Chamber next week, September 20.

“Following the severe weather over the last two winters it is now more important than ever to ensure that your business and employees are educated in how to handle these adverse conditions.

“This briefing will address employer’s legal obligations and provide practical information and cost-effective control measures on how you and your employees can continue to operate safely through the harsh months ahead.”

Attendees of this important event will b e g i ve n f i r s t- h a n d expert advice on topics including aquaplaning, skids and on measures to take to prevent vehicle breakdown in such conditions.

This briefing will also outline the up-todate electronic safety features fitted to many modern vehicles, explain their benefits and demonstrate the systems in actual operation,” a spokesperson for both Chambers said.

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Nifast is Ireland’s leading Health and Safety Training and Consultancy business, offering Public and Incompany Training Courses, in addition to a broad range of Health and Safety Consultancy services.

Nifast has a proud history of providing bestin-class service to clients in both private industry and the public sector.

“This Breakfast Briefing is an ideal opportunity to network with other businessmen and women, all of whom will

be decision-makers and to gain expert advice on keeping your business moving this winter,” the spokesperson said.

All attendees will be entered into a draw for a special free winter driving training course, courtesy of Nifast.

The briefing will take place in the Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport from 7.30am to 9.15am on September 20.

To reserve a place, contact Freda on 8900977 or email Freda@fingaldublinchamber.com.

4 SWORDS GAZETTE 15 September 2011

COUNCIL: COMMUNITY HOUSING Independent experts to help resolve issues USE OF HOSPITAL GARDEN

No talks on garden is a ‘disgrace’ Q STAFF REPORTER news@gazettegroup.com

IT is a “disgrace” that Fingal County Council has not discussed bringing the walled garden at St Ita’s hospital into community use.

This is according to Labour Councillor and Mayor Gerry McGuire who asked the council to report on its deliberations with the HSE on bringing the walled garden at St Ita’s Hospital into community use.

In its report the council said that the Parks and Heritage Properties Section has not had any discussions to date with the HSE regarding bringing the walled gar-

den at St Ita’s Hospital into community use, nor have there been discussions with the Transition Towns Donabate Portrane Project regarding this or an alternate site.

Cllr McGuire said this was an “absolute disgrace” as he was given the understanding that this matter would be taken care of.

“Why have discussions not taken place?” he asked.

The manager said it was something that had slipped through the cracks but asked Cllr McGuire to speak to him after the Balbriggan/ Swords area committee meeting to discuss the matter.

Group to help those affected by pyrite

Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com

AN independent working group that will facilitate owners affected by pyrite has been set up by the Minister for the Environment, Phil Hogan.

Fine Gael TD for Dublin North, Alan Farrell, and Labour TD, Brendan Ryan, have welcomed the announcement this week as many north Dublin homes, including Deputy Farrell’s own, have been affected by the problem.

“Having experienced the issue with my own home, I have been through almost five years of strife and worry that came with the discovery of pyrite.

Along with hundreds of

households in Dublin North, I know first-hand that dealing with the significant amount of misinformation and misleading advice that seems to surround the issue is very difficult for anyone in this situation to contend with.

“I welcome the formation of an independent expert group that will have the interests of the homeowners in mind, and that despite the Government having no legal liability in this matter, it is committed to acting as a facilitator to find a resolution for the issue,” Deputy Farrell said.

L a b o u r D e p u t y, Brendan Ryan said: “I am encouraged by Minister Hogan’s move to establish a working group to facilitate homeowners affected by pyrite, as I was the first TD who raised this proposal with the Minister in the Dail in April. I secured a special Dail Adjournment debate on April 19, during which I called on the Minister for Environment to establish a working group to examine all aspects of the pyrite problem.

“I called on this working group to be led by the Government, but to also include all relevant stakeholders in the pyrite issue. Although the exact composition of this working group is not yet clear, it has been stated that it will include all relevant bodies’ including Homebond and the Construction Industry Federation.

“The working group will consist of an independent chairperson alongside appropriate experts, who will call in all relevant bodies involved,

Minister for the Environment, Phil Hogan (above) and Fine Gael TD for Dublin North, Alan Farrell

including Homebond, developers, quarries and the Construction Industry Federation. However, the group will also be instructed to engage with affected homeowners and associations.”

Deputy Farrell said: “I would urge all resident groups in Dublin North to engage fully and positively with the new work-

ing group. Although I do believe that this is a positive step forward, I am also aware that very serious questions need to be asked by this group to determine how this can

resolved. However, I am committed to ensuring that representatives from Dublin North will have the opportunity to fully engage with the process.”

www.gazette group.com All of your latest local news, sport, features and pictures are now just a click away

15 September 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 5

COUNCIL Site has potential but deemed dangerous

Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com

FOSTERS Way needs a decent facelift, according to Fingal councillors.

It looks like a “derelict” site, according to Fine Gael councillor, Anne Devitt, and it needs to be developed in order to make it a safer place to walk and conduct business, said Labour councillor, Tom Kelleher.

“It looks like a tiphead.

The site has huge potential, but it is a dangerous place to drive and walk.

There are people paying rates there and I don’t think you are being fair to them, and I think we are being a bit neglectful of that area,” Cllr Kelleher said at a Balbriggan/ Swords area committee meeting last week.

Cllr Kelleher said he understood that “nobody could have anticipated such an amazing downturn” and said he didn’t blame the developer for not having the cash to complete the project.

The council responded saying that the developer needs to try to get the project up and running.

In a written report the council said: “Fingal County Council agreed at its meeting held on July 9, 2007, to dispose of the council’s interest in lands comprising 470 square metres and to dispose the council’s interests and rights under the Deeds of Dedication at Fosters

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‘There are people paying rates there and I don’t think you are being fair to them and I think we are being a bit neglectful of that area’ --------------------------

Cllr Tom Kelleher

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Way, New Street, Swords, Co Dublin to Clambrook Ltd, subject to the following terms and conditions: Clambrook Limited to pay the council the sum of €648,503.30 upon completion representing the entire cost incurred by the council in the compulsory purchase of the Lands: Clambrook to pay the council the sum of €400,000 upon completion in relation to the extinguishment of public rights of way and the release of the Deeds of Dedication.

“The transaction is subject to certain conditions being met, including that the purchaser has obtained a planning permission for the development which satisfies the conditions of sale of this site to include the provision for the development of a multi-storey car park with 120 spaces available to the public and a

senior citizens building.

The passing of all council resolutions necessary including the Section 183 Resolution and the extinguishment of the public rights of way over the development area.

The owners of all lands within the Development Site having entered into contracts for sale with Clambrook Limited.

Each party to be responsible for their own legal costs.

“Contractual agreement with the developer to develop within defined time frames. Failure to develop will result in the council being granted rights for 120 car park spaces in the Development Site.

Satisfied

“That the Secretary of the Senior Citizens Club confirms in writing that it is satisfied with the arrangements made with respect to the construction of a new Senior Citizens Building.

“Clambrook Ltd has secured the necessary planning permission.

However, as the other conditions have not yet been met, the council has not proceeded with the disposals as outlined.

“The developer is still proposing to proceed with the development and is currently working to procure the necessary funding to advance the project.”

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Movie Spy: A blast from the past with Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy

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Fosters Way looks like a ‘tiphead’ - Kelleher

Labour Councillor Tom Kelleher

ENTERTAINMENT PAGE 24

6 SWORDS GAZETTE 15 September 2011

AWARD: CAST YOUR VOTE FOR YOUR FAVOURITE

COMMUNITY Suitable lands need to be found for pitches

Bookshop of the Year IF your local bookshop holds a special place in your heart, now’s the time to show your appreciation, as the search for the Bord Gais Energy Bookshop of the Year begins.

The award aims to recognise those retail stalwarts who connect readers and authors on a daily basis and provide us with endless hours of entertainment.

In north Dublin, over 20 bookshops are looking for your vote. To see the full list, and to cast your vote, log onto www. bordgaisenergybookclub. ie before Friday, October

14. By taking part you will also be in with the chance to win €1,000 worth of free electricity.

Delighted

Speaking about the award, Irene Gowing, Sponsorship Manager, Bord Gais Energy said: “We’re delighted to see bookshops being recognised for the work they do. We have read a great deal recently about how the industry is coming under increased pressure, and here’s the chance for book lovers to vote for their favourite store and show their appreciation.”

GOT A STORY? Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email news@gazettegroup.com

The council is due to open a new Community Centre at Applewood, Swords, in the coming months

‘More land is needed for sports facilities’ Q MIMI MURRAY

MORE land needs to be identified in the Swords area that would be suitable for the development of sporting facilities, Labour Councillor Tom Kelleher said last week.

He said that space is at a premium and there is a shortage of pitches in the area.

“There is a raft of sporting clubs, including GAA, soccer and rugby clubs, but they are seriously short of suitable open space. We cannot keep trying to provide pitches when we haven’t got them. Can we go to clubs and say, can we show you land we think is suitable and maybe talk to landowners,” he

said at a Balbriggan/ Swords area committee meeting last week.

However, Fine Gael Councillor, Anne Devitt said that she did not believe land is in as short supply as they are being told. “I don’t think we make enough of sharing facilities in a proper way,” she said.

Meanwhile, the council said it is due to open a new Community Centre at Applewood, Swords, in the coming months.

Suitable

“The centre, delivered as part of the Fingal Schools Model, is a state-of-the-art facility, consisting of a full-size hall suitable for a number of sports, including basketball, indoor football, badminton, volleyball,

and gymnastics. The hall may also be sub-divided for efficiency of use and has storage space for clubs that use the centre.

The facility also includes changing rooms, a number of meeting/recreational rooms, a dance studio and kitchen facilities.

“It is anticipated that this centre, together with the existing and planned facilities, will cater for the demands of most sporting bodies in the area.

Cllr Kelleher said: “I am delighted the community centre will be open sooner than expected. What I had in mind stems from the fact that open space is at a premium and there is a shortage of pitches,” he said.

TALK TO YOUR LOCAL MARKET ADVERTISE WITH YOUR LOCAL SWORDS GAZETTE

Call your local sales person, Louise Fitzgerald now on

01 6516206 or 085 8018734

15 September 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 7

FINGAL Councillor wants enhanced entrance to be a priority

RIDGEWOOD

Call made to tackle attacks in park

Space to be taken in charge

Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com

THE Ward Rivervalley Park must be prioritised for development in order to put a stop to the attacks that have taking place there in recent months.

This is according to Fingal councillors who say that if the park was more accessible it would be a safer place.

Labour Councillor Tom Kelleher tabled a motion at a Swords/ Balbriggan area committee meeting last

week asking that the committee would prioritise the development of an enhanced entrance to the Ward Rivervalley Park from the Well Road in Swords so that the park may be easily accessed by the public and gardai.

He said that this development could be undertaken in stages, if necessary, as the funding becomes available.

“I don’t doubt the commitment to opening up fantastic facilities to the town of Swords but the valley, in its present

Councillors Tom Kelleher (top) and Darragh Butler believe the park would be a safer place if it was more accessible

condition, is a danger.

People were attacked in the valley and, if it were more accessible it would be a safer place.

“A l o t o f s e r i o u s drinking is taking place there. It is criss-crossed by girls going to school and the entrance is a dangerous place.

“We need to do whatever we can and I think it would make a huge difference in Swords,”

he said.

Fianna Fail Councillor, Darragh Butler, said: “The worst of the attacks have taken place in broad daylight.

It is a shame the jewel in the crown has not been developed.”

In its response the council said: “Increased usage of the park is seen as key to reducing antisocial behaviour in the park.

“T his can best be achieved by provision of a pedestrian and, or, cycle route used by residents of the River valley and Swords manor areas as a way of accessing the centre of the town.

“A section of land between Church Road and Bells Lane on the south side of the river is not in the ownership of the council and it is

over this section that the last remaining link must be provided.

“Discussions with the owner of the land are ongoing but, at this stage, the council cannot state when it might be possible to provide an access into the park.

“A further report will be brought to this committee on the matter before the end of the year.”

THE open space at Ridgewood in Swords will soon be taken in charge, according to Fingal County Council.

Labour Councillor, Mayor Gerry McGuire, asked the council to indicate whether St Finian’s GAA Club is going to be allocated pitches in this area.

“The council is in the final stages of taking the class 1 public open space in Ridgewood in charge.

“Once an overhead barrier to prevent unauthorised vehicular access to the park is installed, and legal paper work finalised, the open space will be taken in charge.

“It is the council’s intention to allocate the pitches to local clubs for the 2011/12 season using the normal criteria for pitch allocation,” the council said.

8 SWORDS GAZETTE 15 September 2011

EVENT One of Ireland’s top model agents, John Compton,

Enjoying a model occasion OP model agent John Compton and his Venezuela-born partner of seven years, Marlon Jimenez, celebrated their civil partnership with family and friends recently.

Local photographer Una Williams captured the joy of the happy day beautifully, and was kind enough to share these images with us.

Guests included model Gail Kaneswaran, USbased TV presenter Emma Buckley and “best woman” Vivienne Connolly.

After the ceremony, the happy couple moved on to the Angler’s Rest in Castleknock where they held a lavish reception that proved a very memorable occasion. And, when all the partying and celebrations were done, the pair headed off to Marbella in southern Spain for their honeymoon.

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Marlon Jimenez, Vivienne Connolly, John and Mark Compton. Pictures: Una Willams

John Compton and Debbie Compton Higgins

The happy couple

Alan Geoghegan, Richard Kavanagh and Pj Gibbons

15 September 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 9

ties the knot with Marlon, partner of seven years

Sean and Pauline Compton with John and Marlon

Outside the Registrar’s Office

Cutting the cake Jane Carpenter, John Compton and Holly Carpenter

Alan, Paul, John and Mark Compton

Happy together

Emma Buckley

John, Marlon, Mark Compton and Vivienne Connolly

10 SWORDS GAZETTE 15 September 2011

BUSINESS Launching this year’s Fingal Enterprise Week

Oisin Geoghegan, CEO, Fingal County Enterprise Board; David O’Connor, county manager, Fingal County Council; Bobby Kerr; Cllr Gerry McGuire, Mayor of Fingal County Council; Ben Dunne; Nicola Byrne; Joe Harford, chairman, Fingal County Enterprise Board; Paddy Lonergan, Bank of Ireland and Siobhan Kinsella, Fingal Chamber

David O’Connor, county manager, Fingal County Council; Oisin Geoghegan, CEO, Fingal County Enterprise Board; Joe Harford, chairman, Fingal County Enterprise Board; Siobhan Kinsella, Fingal Chamber; Cllr Gerry

Fingal Enterprise Week sounds like a bright idea for Oisin Geoghegan, CEO, Fingal County Enterprise Board; Nicola

McGuire, Mayor of Fingal County Council and Paddy Lonergan, BOI

Byrne; Bobby Kerr and Ben Dunne, who came together at the Europa Academy, Swords to help launch the initiative

Pitching in to mark a key Fingal event HREE of Ireland’s best-known entrepreneurs were on hand to launch a jam-packed programme of events for the upcoming Fingal Enterprise Week.

Ben Dunne, Bobby Kerr and Nicola Byrne came together to mark Fingal Enterprise week, which takes place from September 26 to September 30.

More than 800 businesses are expected to take part in the week’s events, which includes a pop-up bank, social media seminars, open days and business networking, mentoring clinics, a food forum and an export seminar, as well as talks around how to improve branding and client pitches for small business owners.

The highlight of the week is when four selected small businesses get to

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pitch to Ben Dunne, Bobby Kerr and Nicola Byrne in front of a live audience at the Fingal Enterprise Awards on Thursday, September 29, at the Europa Academy.

One of the four businesses has a chance to go through to the National Enterprise Awards in November. This event is hosted by Richard Curran, from RTE’s Dragon’s Den series.

Speaking at the programme launch in Swords, Oisin Geoghegan, CEO of the Fingal County Enterprise Board, said that owner/managers of small businesses, and those looking to set up a new enterprise, need even greater access to information, advice and supports.

“During Fingal Enterprise Week, small businesses and new start-ups can meet industry experts, seek busi-

Oisin Geoghegan, Bobby Kerr, Ben Dunne and Nicola Byrne

ness advice, hear from experienced entrepreneurs and attend free mentor clinics.

“The events are designed to help visitors identify new business opportunities and markets, to encourage them to make new business contacts through networking, and to match them with experienced mentors to tackle their business queries.

“These are all vital issues for small business owners, to help them decide how to better develop their enterprise,” he said.

Most of the events during Fingal Enterprise Week are free of charge, and bookings can be made online through www.fingalenterpiseweek.ie.

Fingal Enterprise Week is supported by Fingal County Council, Bank of Ireland and Newstalk.

Oisin Geoghegan, Ben Dunne, Nicola Byrne and Bobby Kerr

Oisin Geoghegan, Nicola Byrne, Bobby Kerr and Ben Dunne point out Fingal’s strengths for business

The business and entreprenurial figures were happy to line up and extol Fingal’s virtues for enterprise

15 September 2011 GAZETTE 11

MILESTONE

MEASLES: WARNING TO HAVE YOUR CHILDREN’S VACCINES UP-TO-DATE

Ten years for Go for Life

HSE call to have kids vaccinated Q STAFF REPORTER

THE HSE is calling on parents to protect their children from measles by having them vaccinated this September.

Measles is highly infectious and is spread by coughs and sneezes.

The only way to protect against measles is to get the MMR vaccine. Children need two doses of MMR vaccine at 12 months and again at 4 to 5 years of age.

“Any child or young adult in Ireland who has not been vaccinated is at risk of measles. Since the beginning of this year there have been over 160 cases of measles and, over the summer, there has been a rapid increase.

These have occurred mainly in children less than four years of age

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‘Any child or young adult in Ireland who has not been vaccinated is at risk of measles’

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who were never vaccinated and most of the cases were in north Dublin City,” a spokesperson for the HSE said.

“As normal routine kicks in, children are going back to creche, pre-school and primary school this week. This is a time when more children are mixing together and so the risk of spreading measles is increased.

“Make sure that your children are protected against infectious dis-

eases by ensuring they are up-to-date with their vaccines. If your child is starting school (aged 4 or 5 years) and has never had an MMR vaccine, they need to get it now. They should get it from their GP. MMR vaccine is free.

“Children who have had one dose of MMR, will get their second dose of MMR vaccine either at school or from their GP. “Any child between 6-12 years of age should already have had two doses of MMR vaccine. If they have not they need it now. Go to your GP for the vaccine. If your child has only had one dose, they should go for their second dose to the GP. MMR vaccine is free,” the spokesperson said.

For more information see www.immunisation. ie or www.hpsc.ie

Welcome home: Dubliner whiskey planning to take over the country GOLDEN Goddesses Holly Carpenter and Roz Purcell were on hand to welcome The Dubliner home as First Ireland Spirits announce that new Dubliner Irish Whiskey Liqueur, one of Ireland’s most exciting new exports, is now available in Dublin after seizing a golden opportunity in Australia and tasting success in the US. As well as Dublin Airport, Dubliner is also stocked in the Irish Celtic Whiskey shop on Dawson Street with plans to go nationwide over the next 12 months at a recommended retail price from €22 to €25. It is now sold in the US, Ireland, Britain, Germany, Holland, Ukraine, Israel and Australia.

OVER 1,000 volunteers of a national programme for sport and physical activity for older people – Go for Life – helped celebrate its 10th anniversary in The Helix in Dublin last week.

Go for Life is an Age and Opportunity initiative funded by the Irish Sports Council. The volunteers have trained as Physical Activity Leaders (PALs) and lead elderly people in their local community group in sport or physical activity.

Speaking at the event Minister of State for Tourism and Spor t, Michael Ring TD said: “Older people play such an important role in our society and in this, the European Year of Volunteering, I’m delighted to be there to support so many older volunteers who make being physically active easier for their peers all over the country.”

12 GAZETTE 15 September 2011

MEDIATE, OR NO? Exploring Alternative Dispute Resolution

Mediation – it’s the new kid on the block FOR THOSE considering going to court to solve a dispute, be it a business, family, or just the ordinary disputes that occur in day-to-day life, Alternative Dispute Resolution

(ADR) is now an alternative to court.

Until recently, people felt that their only recourse to justice, in dealing with civil/commercial or family issues was to “have their

day in court”.

This can often prove more of a hindrance than a problem solver.

Sometimes it resulted in the failure of viable companies and the destruction of good business relationships. This, in turn, caused a lot of stress resulting in marital problems, breakdown and, again, more court proceedings.

Under these circumstances, mediation is fast becoming the “light at the end of the tunnel”.

It is now mandatory in civil and commercial courts that parties considering going to court must be given the option of mediation and informed of its advantages prior to their court appearance.

The courts can take a “poor view” of parties who refuse to undertake mediation, and final decisions can be swayed by the reluctance of the parties to undertake same.

Mediation is equally as important in Family Law cases, where the cost of court may be very high,

Mediation is becoming a popular alternative to the courts when it comes to dispute resolution

both on an emotional and financial level.

Therefore the Family Law Courts are now in the process of advocating mediation as the least painful and most costeffective form of dispute resolution.

Mediation is becoming very popular in Ireland as both the judiciary and the disputing parties see the advantages of its flexibility, problem-solving and its ability in time-saving, both for the disputing parties and courts viewpoint.

Process of mediation

Mediation begins with either of the parties in dispute contacting the mediator directly or it may be a solicitor referral to mediation in order to comply with legal requirements.

Initially, a meeting is set up during which the mediator explains the process, the rules and role of the mediator. At this time the parties are informed that Mediation is voluntary,

confidential and its aim is to come up with an agreement satisfactory to all.

Clients are encouraged to have independent legal advice at all stages. However, they are obliged to refrain from litigation during the course of mediation. An agreement to mediate is signed and then the process can be continued in both joint/ single sessions. The mediator’s role is to guide the discussion and to remain impartial. Mediators do, of course, act as “devil’s advocate”, ask difficult questions and prompt replies that initiate solutions. Upon conclusion a “Memorandum of Understanding” is drawn up, signed by the parties and taken to their respective solicitors to make it legally binding. By this process the parties themselves have resolved their own issues.

Going to court to solve disputes, whether they arise in the course of someone’s business or pri-

vate lives, is an arduous, time-consuming, expensive and often traumatic process.

In court, judgments and adjournments can be time-consuming and, when a ruling is finally reached, it is often impossible to adhere to, due to the lack of input from the disputing parties.

From once you enter court there is little or no confidentiality. When your case is being heard anybody can walk into the courtroom, can hear all your business, and report on their findings.

When compared to the mediation process, it is obvious that many of the disadvantages of court are eliminated.

As a rule, mediation costs are substantially lower than those of court proceedings. Mediation can resolve complex disputes in as little as a day.

There are no waiting lists or adjournments.

The parties in the mediation control the process,

and the outcome. No agreement or solution will be imposed. This in itself helps to maintain friendships – mediation is a lot less destructive to private and commercial relationships as parties enter mediation in good faith and with the intention to settle.

Mediation items discussed, and their outcome, are completely confidential between the mediator and the parties concerned.

Another advantage is that parties come to a mutually beneficial solution that can become legally binding. This happens when parties have agreed some or, hopefully, all of the items on the agenda.

For instance, an accredited mediator has the authority to create with the parties a document called a Memorandum of Understanding. This document is then given to a solicitor who will take it to court on your behalf, to have it “rubber stamped”.

It then becomes legally binding, therefore, you personally never need to attend court.

In conclusion, it was asked at the start of the article should you “mediate or not”? It seems clear we would all agree to definitely mediate.

For further information, contact Citywide Consultants & Mediators, Rosie Gallagher FCPA, C Dip. AF, telephone: 01 219 4444, mobile: 087 666 9887, email: rosie@cwcm ie or visit www.cwcm.ie

15 September 2011 GAZETTE 13

VOLUNTEER

SUPPORT: APPEAL TO HELP PAY FOR YOUNG CANCER PATIENT’S TREATMENT

10 years on for Go for Life

Fundraiser is cabaret crazy A FANTASTIC night of vintage-inspired entertainment has been arranged for the upcoming fundraiser for the Marc Owens Medical Fund.

On September 22 at the Sugar Club, Fab Cabaret will take to the stage.

Headlining the night will be chanteuse Jeannette Byrne, with her 10-piece band performing classic French chansons a la Piaf, Aznavour and Brel.

On the bill also will be Liza Minnelli Tribute act, Sharon Sexton, and magician/comedian Jack Wise.

If you’re looking for an evening of classic romantic music, with some amazing magic tricks thrown in, then look no further.

Tickets, priced €15, are available from Shane

Lynch – 087 8317677, Paul Collins 087 2591508; or email marcowensmedicalfund@gmail.com.

At the age of just 18, Marc Owens was just about to embark on his final year in Belvedere College when he was diagnosed with a rare and very aggressive form of cancer.

There were no warning signs, just an acute stomach ache and, suddenly, this happy, sports-mad teenage was a cancer patient with very poor prospects.

His doctors sent him to the MD Anderson Cancer Care Clinic in Houston for cutting-edge, life-saving surgery last February.

After many complications, set-backs and not a little pain, Marc returned home in May and, for the moment, he is continu-

ing his treatment in the Mater Hospital.

To help fund the enormous cost of Marc’s ongoing treatment, a fund has been set up – the Marc Owens Medical Fund - to raise €1 million over the next three years.

In less than four months, €250,000 has already been raised through various fundraising activities.

Cathy Herbert, who is on the fundraising committee, said: “Marc is facing the kind of challenge that puts all other challenges into perspective. We all need to rally around him to ensure he can get the best medical care in the world.”

For more information about Marc, call Cathy Herbert, 087 2395393, or see website www.marcowensmedicalfund.com

Showdown: Turn the Aviva Blue for first RaboDirect Pro12 encounter LEINSTER RUGBY players Eoin O’Malley, left, and Dominic Ryan want to see the Blue Army descend on Landsdowne Road to support the Heineken Cup champions as they take on arch rivals, Munster, in November.

Following pre-sales, which incorporated a special Hour of Power reduced-price window last week, over 21,000 tickets for the match, dubbed Fever in Aviva 2, have been sold for the November 4 showdown.

The Leinster team are calling on all Dublin supporters to come and support the team. For more information, log on to www.leinsterrugby.ie

OVER 1,000 volunteers of a national programme for sport and physical activity for older people – Go for Life – helped celebrate its 10th anniversary in The Helix in Dublin last week.

Go for Life is an Age & Opportunity initiative funded by the Irish Sports Council. The volunteers have trained as Physical Activity Leaders (PALs) and lead elderly people in their local community group in sport or physical activity. Last year, more than 40,000 elderly people took part.

Speaking at the event, Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Michael Ring TD said: “Older people play such an important role in our society and in this, the European Year of Volunteering, I’m delighted to be there to support so many older volunteers who make being physically active easier for their peers all over the country,” he said.

14 GAZETTE 15 September 2011

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC Jay and Silent Bob strike Vicar Street for a live show FILMMAKER, comic-book author, actor and internet pioneer Kevin Smith, together with his longtime partner-in-crime, Jason Mewes, are coming to Vicar Street next February 21 to record a special Dublin edition of their internet radio show, Jay and Silent Bob Get Old. The iconic duo’s show is part of a catalogue of programming on the SModcast internet radio network that Smith has developed in recent years, that tours the US recording in theatres, comic-book conventions and comedy clubs.

The SIR network, available through iTunes, features podcasts and shows with many faces and voices familiar to fans of the Jersey boy’s movies, including Ralph Garman, and comedian and actor Jay Mohr.

Anyone who has seen Kevin Smith’s spoken word shows will know to expect the hilarious and the irreverent in equal measure.

For more information, see thesirmon.com

REVIEW: A CELEBRATION OF SURVIVAL AND COMMITMENT

Twenty years on and Pearl Jam still endure Q ROB HEIGH

A FRIEND tells a story of when he was working in the US as a roadie and tech for a few big-name bands. There was this kid who used to hang out, and then work with the crew he was with, an unassuming, quiet and polite lad with long hair and a love of surfing.

One day, he gave my friend a tape with demos of some songs he’d written, and asked what he thought. My friend listened, liked what he heard, and said he should stick at it. The kid was pleased, and they continued working together until my friend moved back to Britain.

One night, a few years later, he recognised a song by a new band making their television debut on BBC’s Late Show. It was

Pearl Jam are celebrating their anniversary with a series of events, including the release of Pearl Jam 20

one of the songs the kid he’d worked with in the US gave him, and he was singing with the band. The kid was Eddie Vedder, and the band was Pearl Jam, playing a blistering version of Alive.

Since 1991, Pearl Jam have been a constant force of rock nature, and 20 years on from the

release of Ten, they are celebrating their anniversary with a series of major events — a mini-festival in Wisconsin last weekend that featured The Strokes, Queens of the Stone Age and Soundgarden, as well as two epic closing sets

by PJ, a double album retrospective and PJ20, a motion picture documen-

tary by filmmaker and long-term friend of the band, Cameron Crowe (who cast them in his movie, Singles, in 1992).

The movie had its premiere at the Toronto Film Festival last weekend, and I was lucky enough to catch a special screening this week.

The movie is a tribute to the enduring power of friendship, creativity and music that has seen the individuals go through some immensely tough times in their history, that shaped their work, themselves as people and as a band of brothers.

The movie goes right back through the history of Pearl Jam, to their genesis as Mookie Blaylock from the ashes of Mother Love Bone in Seattle in 1990, right through to the present day, where they are rightly regarded as one of the best live acts in the world, proven time and again through the archive and specially-filmed concert footage from the 2010 tour.

Individual interviews with the band members, both archive and recent, are interspersed with personal, TV and backstage

material, and contributions from their contemporaries, like Chis Cornell.

Cameron Crowe and his editors have made their way through an epic amount of archive footage to come up with the two hours of material that make up the movie, and if I had one quibble, it would simply by that it is not long enough. I left the cinema hoping that there will be a director’s cut.

But Cameron Crowe has told the story of Pearl Jam with sympathy and narrative flair, showing a group of very different people growing up and making the choice to stay committed to their project when most other bands would have broken up.

PJ20 shows across Dublin next week on September 20 for one day only at Vue Liffey Valley, the IFI, the Dun Laoghaire IMC and the Rathmines Omniplex.

If you are even a passing fan, or a rabid devotee, I urge you to go along. This illuminating and heartfelt salute to an enduring and important rock band is a great film in it’s own right.

15 September 2011 GAZETTE 15

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY

Edited by Dawn Love

Winter months are coming soon and moisturising is key WITH the winter months almost upon us, it’s time to start taking extra-special care of your complexion, particularly if you are prone to dry, flaky and tight skin.

With ingredients that are almost good enough to eat, skin savvy shoppers are sure to love The Handmade Soap Co’s Body Butters. The Irish company’s highlyrestorative handmade body butters are effective on even the most dried out and parched skin. Perfect for putting on after the shower or bath, the thick, rich

butters are particularly great for elbows, knees and heels.

When the solid butters come into contact with the skin, they literally melt, providing a luxurious hydrating layer that locks in moisture. And, along with keeping your skin in tip-top shape, their delicious range of body butters are also ideal for massage.

Packed with natural goodness of whipped shea butter and cocoa butter, they get to work quickly to soften, moisturise and encourage skin restructuring and

rehydration. Meanwhile, sweet almond oil deeply moisturises, restoring elasticity to the skin, leaving it feeling fabulously silky and soft.

And, the best part for me is they are free from parabens, sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) and artificial colours or fragrances.

The Handmade Soap Company was founded by couple Donagh Quigley and Gemma McGowan in 2009 when, as a result of the recession, Donagh’s thatching business was left struggling. Looking for a new

50 years for Peter Mark

The Handmade Soap Co’s aloe vera, sweet almond and shea butter body butter

and exciting career, the couple were on holiday in the Australian rainforest when they seized upon the idea of creating a handmade soap company.

The couple set out with a passionate vision – that even seriously good skincare should be fun. And, in a short space of time, the couple’s company has an order book with

shoppers from as farflung as Japan and Brazil, that would make even a skincare giant green.

It’s no wonder then that the company is fast becoming an industry leader, winning a rake of awards for its range of skincare products and gorgeous, quirky, retropackaging.

Av a i l a b l e i n t wo yummy scents – Grape-

fruit, scented with citrus tones of grapefruit and may chang and Aloe Vera, scented with floral tones of palmorosa, ylang ylang and bergamot.

The Handmade Soap Co Body Butter range is priced at €22.95 for 200ml and is available from The Organic Supermarket in Blackrock, Skerries Mills in Fingal and The Kilkenny Shop.

IT’S 50 years now since Peter and Mark Keaveney opened their first salon on Dublin’s Grafton Street and, since then, 73 more salons have opened nationwide. To celebrate, Peter Mark has joined forces with the Make-A-Wish Foundation to ‘Support 50 Wishes’ with two weeks of activities in salons throughout the country, from September 18 to October 2.

From fancy dress days, to bargain blowdries, cross-training sessions to 80’s theme days – there’s plenty going on!

There’s also a €10 gift card for every client who avails of hairdressing services in any Peter Mark Salon during this time.

16 GAZETTE 15 September 2011

SNAPSHOT The stories of the day from around the capital

Getting interactive at Dublin Contemporary Pictured is Hugh O’Neill, age 3, enjoying artist Liam O’Callaghan’s installation, Tales from the Inside Out On Repeat, at Dublin Contemporary 2011 in Earlsfort Terrace, Dublin 2

Toast time for Arthur THE DIARY has been keeping its ear to the ground to find some good Dublin venues to enjoy this year’s Arthur’s Day celebrations, and it appears The Glenside in Churchtown is set for a rollicking good session this year.

At 17.59 on September

DIARY 22, the famous Dublin pub will be bouncing to the sounds of the Christy Moore Tribute Show as well as Dublin’s finest balladeers, The Freewheelers.

Gazette Contacts

Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 6010240 Fax: 01 6010251 Managing Director: Liam Holland email: lholland@gazettegroup.com General Manager: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com Advertising Production: Anita Ward email: ads@gazettegroup.com Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

The Glenside is one of south Dublin’s finest Pubs. Owned by the Mangan Brothers it has a warm and friendly atmosphere.

From the outside, the pub looks like what you would have imagined a pub in times gone by, with its authentic thatch roof. The venue hosts traditional music every Sunday and live bands on Saturdays.

Contact Glenside on 01-2985932 for further information on event options.

And time to toddle...

THE Meningitis Trust is appealing for toddlers to take part in the annual Toddle Waddle throughout next month to raise vital funds and awareness about meningitis.

The national charity is hoping to raise €60,000 this year.

The Toddle Waddle has seen up to 32,000 toddlers waddle their way around Ireland, raising more than €560,000. It is a fun, sponsored walk for young children and their carers, and the sponsorship money they raise will help to provide on-going support to individuals and families who have been affected by meningitis.

To order a free Toddle Waddle organiser’s pack, call The Meningitis Trust on 01 2764269 or visit www.meningitis-trust.ie

15 September 2011 GAZETTE 17

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: DOGS DON’T ‘SWEAT,’ OR PERSPIRE LIKE HUMANS DO TO KEEP COOL

Do dogs sweat, and can they become smelly?

WAS asked an interesting question by a student during the week. “Do dogs sweat, and can they become smelly?” My answer was, er, yes and no.

Dogs don’t “sweat”, or perspire the way we humans do but they can overheat and, yes, they can produce body odour.

As humans, when our body temperature builds up due to vigorous exercise, etc., we perspire and it becomes quite obvious – damp patches under the arm pits, moisture droplets on the skin and unpleasant body odour, because our sweat glands are all over our bodies.

However, a dog’s body is different. His sweat glands are located around his foot pads (merocrine glands), so, when he overheats due to hot weather or too much exercise, you will notice little wet pawshaped patches where he’s been walking.

When your pet overheats, in order to control his body temperature, he will pant quite a bit. This

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action makes the moisture on his tongue evaporate, and the heavy breathing that accompanies it allows the moist lining of his lungs to become a surface from which excess moisture can also evaporate. Hence, his body cools effectively.

A tip for those who own bulldogs and pugs.

These are breeds with a compromised respiration system, so are at a higher risk of overheating because they are unable to pant efficiently, so please keep this in mind when exercising.

However, sometimes, along with your pet’s panting, comes doggie body odour, which can be unpleasant for some pet owners.

It’s up to you to help alleviate his discomfort; this depends on the cause of his body odour and if you are unsure that it’s simply due to overheating, then it’s always best to contact your vet. In the meantime, here are a few tips to help you help him remain a cool canine.

If you believe the odour was caused by your dog being in contact with something unpleasant like fox poo, then give him a bath with a normal dog shampoo, but clean and rinse him thoroughly.

If you believe it’s his diet then alter it. Some dog food can cause a build up of oils on his skin and a lower fat diet may help with this.

Always consult your vet before you change your dog’s diet.

Make sure you feed your pet a high-quality dog food. Some low-quality foods may not contain the essential vitamins your dog requires to maintain proper health and vitality.

Read the label.

Prevent your dog from eating dog faeces. One of my Jack Russells has a fascination with other dogs’ faeces. No, she’s not strange, many dogs do this, but you must watch them carefully and prevent it happening.

Here’s another tip! If your dog eats his own poo, add a tin of pineap-

ple chunks to his food.

Once the pineapple is absorbed, the dog goes to the toilet and then decides to eat it, the taste of the added pineapple will make his poo taste bitter and your dog should eventually stop.

Sorry, I’ve no tips for preventing him eating other dogs’ poo other than to keep him away from it.

Finally, If you’re uncertain as to what is causing your dog’s body odour, (as in you know it’s not over-heating or any of the above) then please take him to the vet for a full health check because serious health conditions need to be ruled out.

Conditions, such as an infection, mange, dental problems and cancer, can all cause unpleasant doggie odours, so it’s always best to get an expert opinion, and who better to provide this than your local vet.

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

A dog’s sweat glands are located around his foot pads to keep him cool and he will also pant, which allows moisture to evaporate from his tongue and lungs

18 GAZETTE 15 September 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS Warning – being towed can be scary AN AA survey of 2,500 Dublin motorists who have had their car towed on one or more occasions reveals that, while the majority of motorists had a reasonably satisfactory experience, a number reported a range of problems and bad experiences, from exorbitant onthe-spot charges by local garages, to white-knuckle fear while being towed on a rope by a friend or family member.

“Motorists stranded on the side of the road are in a highly vulnerable and dangerous situation, particularly if it’s on a motorway or at night,” said Conor Faughnan, director of policy, AA Ireland.

“While not the rule, we did hear from a regrettable number of drivers across the country who were left stranded for hours waiting for assistance to arrive. Others indicated they had difficulty getting through to their insurance provider on the phone. This is particularly worrying when it involves more vulnerable road users, such as an elderly motorist, a lone female or someone travelling with children.”

Exorbitant

While the AA reports that a driver who does not have roadside rescue cover such as AA Membership can expect to pay an average of €105 for a 50km tow (equivalent of Skerries to Rathcoole), and information which is readily available on AA Routeplanner, some motorists reported paying local garages exorbitant amounts for relatively short recoveries.

“One motorist, for example, told us that for

a miniscule two-mile tow, they were charged an astronomical €150,” said Faughnan.

“And this was far from an isolated incident, according to the feedback that we’ve received.

It seems that some local garages, are prepared to chance their arms and take advantage of the situation.”

Accepting a tow from family/friends – a cautionary message

Another concern the AA raises is well-meaning friends and family taking on a towing job without the correct equipment or knowledge.

“It’s not as intuitive as you’d imagine and we certainly wouldn’t recommend providing a tow if you’re ill-equipped and unsure of best practices. During the poll, we heard of bumpers --------------------------

‘Being towed on a rope by a friend or family member was a hair-raising and very scary experience’

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

being pulled off, a thirdparty vehicle unwittingly ploughing through an unseen towing line and motorists being towed in terror for miles as they couldn’t afford the ad hoc services of a local towing provider,” said Faughnan.

“A lot of people also said that being towed on a rope by a friend or family member was a hairraising and very scary experience.”

Mercedes Benz has a new M-Class on the way for 2012 with a smaller, more fuel-efficient engine that will deliver more pace for a lower running cost. Prices have not been confirmed but expect it to be marginally cheaper than the current edition and with lots more features.

M-Class SUV luxury MICHAEL MORONEY went to Germany and drove into Austria to test the new M-Class and give it his appraisal MERCEDES Benz considers the 4x4 market very important and aims to get a bigger share of the premium end with its upgraded new M-Class.

The new model has claims of being more fuel-efficient and better equipped. Mercedes Benz has downsized the entry engine from a 3.0- litre to 2.2-litre in its quest for better fuel economy.

We drove two versions of the car during the recent European launch, driving out of Munich.

The first one was the petrol-powered M-Class, followed by the equivalent engine in diesel power, and the far more interesting ML 250, with 2.2-litre diesel engine under the bonnet.

Called the ML 250 BlueTEC 4MATIC, this SUV delivers a combined fuel economy figure of 16.6km per litre (6l/100km or 47mpg).

That’s an impressive economy figure for a heavy 4x4 vehicle that

SPECS: MERCEDES BENZ ML 250 BLUETEC 4MATIC Top speed: 210 km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 9.0 sec Economy: 16.6 km/litre (6.0 l/100km) CO2 emissions: 158g/km Road Tax Band: D (€447) Euro NCAP Rating: NA Warranty: 2 years Entry Price: NA

runs on a permanent four-wheel-drive arrangement.

Relative to the current model, that delivers about a 25% reduction in fuel consumption from the new model when pitched against the older, bigger engine version. There are few SUVs in this power and weight category that can come near to these new lower running-cost figures.

The M-Class with this entry-level diesel engine is also claimed to give an unmatched driving range on a full tank of diesel. The basic tank has a capacity of 70 litres giving a range of 1,170km.

You can opt for a bigger 93-litre tank and this will then give a range of 1,500km.

With low fuel usage comes lower CO2 emissions. The new entry-level M-Class delivers a figure of 158g/km provided by Mercedes Benz. This will put the new M-Class in the Band D for motor tax purposes, meaning a drop in rate to €447 from close to €2,000 for the current model. That alone is a significant saving, before you even venture near the pumps.

Mercedes Benz has opted for a smaller engine with lower levels of fuel consumption to develop similar power to the bigger engine of the past.

The new technology also ensures that the car’s torque is at its best, with a figure of 500Nm being quoted.

Taking the M-Class on the road gives a very pleasant driving experience. The car is smooth to accelerate and the controls are logical and

well-placed.

But despite its relatively high price, somewhere above the €60,000 mark, this 4x4 is not particularly big on the inside. The front seating is good with lots of adjustment, but those in the rear seem to get a slightly poorer result.

The safety package is impressive with nine airbags on board. The new M-Class uses improved Assistance Systems that are already available on the E-Class models. The standard buyer gets the drowsiness detection system, called Attention Assist, the anticipatory safety system, called PreSafe and a tyre pressure loss warning system, as well as adaptive brake lights and Brake Assist (BAS). There is also an extensive range of optional Assistance Systems.

With a high towing rating of almost 3.5 tonnes, if fitted with a factory hitch, the Mercedes Benz may be recruited for work, as

well as for pleasure. The ground clearance under the heavy-duty chassis is better than many others, at 191mm.

The M-Class will sport the Mercedes badge that always adds to the price.

But overall, it’s not a very big SUV, even if it is expensive.

For many existing M-Class drivers the change is good in terms of the running-cost value.

The comfort is enhanced and the car drives very well, even if the acceleration poke is a little slower than anticipated from the 2.2-litre engine.

The final part of the new M-Class story is that it will be reasonably competitive, not that this is a word often linked with Mercedes Benz prices.

While the final prices have not yet been agreed for the Irish market, it is expected that, with a higher specification, the new M-Class will be cheaper than the current model when it arrives in Ireland early in 2012.

15 September 2011 GAZETTE 19

Tubik is Citroen’s new comfort MPV

CITROEN will show off its new, highly innovative concept van-type vehicle at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show. Called Tubik, this is designed to be a high-tech executive shuttle based on one key idea – that travel should be fun.

The Tubik design has been inspired by Citroen’s Type H or ‘TUB’ van, but with all the styling and characteristics of modern Citroen design, Tubik is a nine-seater packed with entertaining technology.

This striking van design boasts offbeat, distinctive styling with colours and materials designed to meet the highest standards of sophistication and comfort.

To make travel enjoyable for its passengers, Tubik incorporates a lounge-style cocoon dedicated to comfort and relaxation. The modular seats are designed to be arranged in many

different ways (semireclined, face-to-face, etc.). Citroen claims that the onboard technology, which includes a giant semi-circular screen and high-definition surround sound, turns the cabin into an area that is perfect for sharing over long distances.

Nissan will be offering a new 1.6 litre turbo-diesel in the Qashqai models to improve fuel economy with a Stop/Start option due in 2012

A Pure Drive with the latest Qashqai option

Aerodynamics

This Tubik concept is powered by Citroen’s new Hybrid4 technology.

With this full-hybrid diesel drive and optimised aerodynamics, Citroen claims that the Tubik maintains CO2 emissions at a level comparable to a conventional saloon.

The full-hybrid diesel drive also offers more range than a stand-alone internal combustion engine and maximises traction in four wheeldrive mode. The front wheels are driven by the diesel engine and the rear wheels by the elec-

The new Citroen Tubik concept car shown at the Frankfurt Motor Show is designed as the ultimate in terms of people carrier design

tric motor. The 22-inch wheels feature deep, narrow, very low-rolling resistance tyres to further help optimise fuel consumption.

At 4.80m long, 2.08m wide and 2.05m tall, Tubik is big enough to carry up to nine passengers. The front end, which stands

apart from the main body, brings to mind the corrugated metal of the Type H van with its distinctive ribbing, while the windscreen pillars are reminiscent of the Type H’s two characteristic ridges.

To make the Tubik look even more protective,

Citroen’s designers have combined two contrasting colours. The metallic grey of the body shell enveloping the pearlescent white at either end marks the position of the diesel engine (at the front) and electric motor (at the rear) used by the full-hybrid diesel drive.

Peugeot teams up with IFA THE IFA Member Services and Peugeot will launch a new partnership on the occasion of the 80th National Ploughing Championships, Athy on September 20-22.

To celebrate the new venture, the IFA is launching a Peugeot 508 giveaway, to the value of €24,850, at the Ploughing Championships, details of which can be sought at both the IFA and the Peugeot stand.

T h e I FA / P e u g e o t partnership will bring to fruition many motoring benefits to IFA members, of which there are currently 87,000 in Ireland.

Effective from November 1, 2011, IFA members will enjoy excellent value service offers from Peugeot. They will be eligible to join the IFA Peugeot Service Club, offering

John Bryan, President of the Irish Farmers’ Association, Des Cannon, Peugeot Sales & Marketing Director, JJ Kavanagh, IFA National Treasurer and George Harbourne, Peugeot Managing Director.

every fourth service for free. A €250 rebate will be paid to IFA members on new Peugeot vehicle registration.

George Harbourne, Peugeot managing director said: “Peugeot has a very natural affiliation with Ireland’s farming

community and the IFA, thanks to our strong diesel heritage.

“We are very excited about this partnership and we very much look forward to working with the IFA in the coming years to make sure it is a success for Peugeot Ire-

land, The IFA and IFA members.”

John Bryan, president of the Irish Farmers’ Association said: “IFA is delighted to announce this partnership with Peugeot.

“We are committed to delivering the best range

of deals through our Member Services division, and the tie-up with Peugeot will bring added benefits to the existing package.

“I expect there will be strong interest at Ploughing, given the superb prize on offer.”

NISSAN has developed a new Pure Drive version of the top-selling Qashqai, which produces just 129g/km of CO2 with a fuel consumption of 20.km/litre (4.9l/100km).

This latest Qashqai is powered by a new 1.6litre diesel engine that claims to deliver strong fuel economy and low emissions, but which has the same levels of torque and top speed as the 2.0-litre dCi engine it replaces.

Peak power from the new engine is 130bhp, which is backed by a torque figure of 320Nm, available from as low as 1,750 rpm. And this is just the start. Early next year, a version of the model will be launched with Nissan’s Stop/Start System, which will help to reduce CO2 emissions still further to a 119 g/km and 22km/ litre (4.5l/100km) of fuel consumption.

To add to the new items of equipment including, for the first time on a C-segment car, Nissan will be offering the Around View Monitor (AVM) system. More usually found on luxury cars, AVM uses a series of small cameras located on the exterior of the vehicle to make parking and manoeuvring as safe as possible by giving the driver a real-time bird’s eye view of the environment around the car.

A new CVT gearbox

will also be available on 1.6-litre petrol models to bring further drive options to the range.

The Pure Drive designation is given to every Nissan product that emits 130g/km of CO2 or less.

On its introduction, the “cut off” point was 140g, but, as part of the Nissan Green Programme, membership of this exclusive club gets tougher all the time. The programme calls for a further drop to 120g in 2013.

20 GAZETTE 15 September 2011

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS EXHIBITION: OFFICIAL OPENING

Condren wins 2nd photo award THE AIB Photojournalism Exhibition 2011, a collection of some of the most remarkable press photographs from the past year, was officially opened in AIB Bank, Dame Street, last week,

by Jimmy Deenihan TD, Minister forArts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht.

The opening was marked by a reception hosted by Padraig McGowan, branch manager, AIB Bank, Dame Street.

This year, over 2,010 images were entered by 123 photographers from around the country, across nine categories - news, daily life, sports action, sports portfolio, portrait, environment, politics, arts and entertainment and reportage.

The overall AIB Photojournalist of the Year 2011 title was awarded to Mark Condren, for the second year in a row.

Opening the Exhibition, Minister Deenihan said: “This exhibition offers us a picture diary of life during 2010 covering everything from hard news stories, sporting events, politics and everyday life. The photography on display acts as a visual snapshot of public and private life during 2010, covering all aspects of life in Ireland and abroad during this time. The Awards help portray the craft of press photography and showcase the photographer’s skills for timing and preparation. I would like to offer my congratulations to Mark Condren for winning the AIB Photojournalist of the Year Award for the second year in succession.”

The images from this year’s Exhibition can be viewed by logging on to www.ppai.ie.

The Springboard programme offers new skills to those who wish to enter the fast-growing world of international financial services

EMPLOYMENT: NEW SKILLS FOR INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES

Get a new start with FSI CareerStart programme WHILE the shock of unemployment is hitting thousands of people who never thought it could happen to them, however, there is some good news.

Speaking at the launch of the Springboard programme, earlier this year, Education and Skills Minister Ruairi Quinn said: “The Government put together the Springboard programme as part of our overall Jobs Initiative. Springboard aims to upskill and reskill unemployed people in order to allow them to change career and give them a real chance of re-entering the workforce” The FSI CareerStart programme, one of the programmes funded under the Springboard initiative, offers participants a combination of industry relevant professional qualifications, management training and work placements or mentoring while

still retaining their social welfare benefits. Whether switching to an entirely new career path or starting out in your career, FSI CareerStart could be the key to a range of employment opportunities in the growing financial services sector in Ireland.

Programme Over the course of six to 12 months (depending on your preferred option), the programme offers new skills to those who wish to enter the fast-growing world of international financial services, and provides an in-depth knowledge of the industry, the IFSC companies and the job opportunities in the sector. The places are offered free of charge to eligible jobseekers. One of the main attractions of the financial services sector is the diversity of skill sets and backgrounds that

can be accommodated.

Whether your strength is in numeracy, languages, science, technology or creative thinking, a career in the international financial services sector may be the perfect fit for you.

The course is industryled, so the education and skills that candidates will develop during the course are those identified as desirable by IFSC employers. “Much of the challenge for employers involves finding workers with the specialised skills and backgrounds they need,” says Brendan Bruen, director of Financial Services Ireland.

“FSI CareerStart is giving a real solution to employers and employees alike – identifying what each needs from the other, and getting the balance right and there are career opportunities in this sector.”

The programme

presents participants with a choice of four options.

Option 1: Certificate Stream – International Financial Services + Certificate in Management Option 2: Certificate Stream - Investment Funds Services + Certificate in Management Option 3A: Diploma Stream – International Financial Services + Certificate in Management Option 3B: Diploma Stream – Investment Funds Services + Certificate in Management You are not restricted to choosing one option, you may apply for more than one of these courses as availability may be limited on your first choice All of the courses are Level 7 higher education awards, which are highly valued by employers and considered core qualifications for working in the sector. The courses are delivered by IBEC Man-

agement Academy and the Institute of Bankers, a recognised college of University College Dublin and the leading education provider for those working in banking and financial services.

Opportunities Throughout the programme, participants will be offered either work experience opportunities in world-class IFSC companies, or mentoring by industry professionals. The placement and mentoring opportunities offer participants a great opportunity to gain extensive knowledge on employers and their requirements, and places participants in an ideal position to demonstrate their new skills and impress a prospective employer.

This is the second year of the programme.

According to Brian

McMahon, Programme Manager for the Careerstart programme, of those who undertook the programme last year, almost two-thirds of the participants are now working, more than half of them employed by the company in which they completed their work placement. “This encouraged us to expand the 2011 programme, which offers 160 places.”

To be eligible to take up a place on the FSI Careerstart programme, applicants must meet one of the following criteria – be on the live register and claiming Jobseekers Allowance or Benefit, or signing for credits, or claiming One Parent Family Payment.

To apply for FSI CareerStart 2011, visit www.fsicareerstart.ie. For more information, contact 0818 333113or email info@fsicareerstart.ie

15 September 2011 GAZETTE 21

Supported by AIB

Interview: Rosie Gallagher (F.C.P.A. C.Dip. A.F.) Accredited Mediator

Rosie rises to the top in mediation ROSIE Gallagher is an accredited mediator with her own accountancy business, Citywide Consultants and Mediators (CWCM), which she set up in 2001.

During the last ten years, she has built up her expertise as a mediator through her involvement with conciliation between people seeking loan deals and also working as a consultant for the banking industry.

In this role she acted as a mediator/conciliator between the banks and their clients.

She also worked with the Free Legal Advice Centre and (FLAC) and Money Advice Bureau Services (MABS).

She is also a Family Law Mediator and has expanded her service to cater this area.

She has many years of experience dealing in conflict situations, varying from issues in civil and commercial matters, such as business break-up, insurance and employee issues, right through to family matters such as separation and divorce, children’s issues and solutions for looking

after the elderly.

Prior to setting up her own business, she worked in banking, both domestic (TSB, where she was assistant manager) and in corporate banking as senior lending executive with ICC Bank.

While working as a senior lending executive with ICC Bank, she was head-hunted by the IDA --------------------------

‘This training was so successful that the staff were awarded Banking Diplomas bringing them up to European standards’ --------------------------

and was selected from a large number of nations to set up the lending arm of The Development Bank of the Seychelles.

Here she trained a staff of 250 people, through lectures and on-the-job training.

This training was so successful that the staff

were awarded Banking Diplomas, bringing them up to European standards.

During this time, she developed her mediation skills, as she managed international mediation between foreign banks.

Working in the Indian Ocean region, she was on the welcoming committee for diplomats arriving in the Seychelles.

She also attended business meetings in the various Embassies where she mediated on behalf of the Development Bank of the Seychelles, with heads of state and finance ministers of visiting countries.

Her company, CWCM, provides a confidential service, using experienced staff, to help those who are in dispute or experiencing conflict.

Citywide Consultants and Mediators boasts a team of professionals that include accredited mediators, accountants, barristers and social workers.

It also offers a choice of solicitors in order to legalise the agreements reached after a successful mediation.

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS

HAVE AN ARF Q – Recently retired, I have just taken out an Approved Retirement Fund (ARF) and have been told I must take this “imputed distribution” of 5% of the fund each year. Is this true – I don’t really want to touch the fund as I am still relatively solvent and don’t want to touch this fund ? John – Gormanstown A - Unfortunately, whether you take this income or not, you will be liable for income tax, PRSI and Universal Social Charge on the 5% of the fund in the same way as if an actual ARF withdrawal or imputed distribution had been made. When you retire, depending on the scheme and the fund value, you have three choices of execution.

1. Annuity – basically a fixed deposit interest rate set at the time of retirement and that never changes. The insurance company gets to keep the fund when you pass away. So the idea is to outlive the interest e.g. € 200k fund at 5% will give a pension of € 10k. Live beyond 20 years and you have taken over €200k from the fund.

2. Approved Retirement Fund (ARF) – more choice with your investment options plus you MUST take 5% of the fund each year BUT when you die, the ARF goes into your estate for redistribution.

3. Cash – there are certain rules with this e.g. you MUST have € 120k in a Approved Minimum Retirement Fund (AMRF) until age 75 over which amount you can encash at your marginal rate of tax AFTER you have taken your 25% tax-free lump sum ( maximum now € 200k). Therefore, I would take the imputed distribution and either invest the money in a medium-term deposit account ( best rate 4.29% AER for an 18-month account ) or spend it.

CREDIT CARD MESS Q – I have three credit cards, all of them maxed out. I am still able to pay the minimum amount each month for each card but it is getting more difficult as other debts are mounting. I have tried transferring them, but no credit card company will allow the transfer. I am at my wits end – any suggestions ? Rob - Adamstowns Rosie Gallagher

A - Most of the credit card companies offering credit card balances transfers have both relatively low limits and strict credit guidelines. The Irish

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

A: A Hairdresser Q: What was your first job?

A: Ansbacher bank Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: £30 per week Q: When did you start your present job?

A: 2000 Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: Working with people. It is always challenging

Q: What part of your working day do you ‘delegate’?

Credit Bureau (ICB) in Clonskeagh Dublin 14 is their

A: The long hours Q: What sport do you follow?

A: Horse racing Q: What sport can you play?

A: Cycling Q: What is your guilty music/TV or movie pleasure?

A: Quiz programmes Q: Who best represents modern Ireland – David Norris or Jedward?

A: Neither Q: What music/pictures/ movies do you have on your iPod/iPad? A: All of the above

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: Nobody, don’t believe in it

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: Fashion, food and enter-

Q: What was your last Tweet/status update?

A: Do not know, probably

tainment

first port of call to check your credit history.

Any blemishes, a missed payment and the refusal is guaranteed. Your debts are starting to mount so now is the time to communicate and negotiate with your creditors. Speak to them individually and try and come to an agreed arrangement. You will

business promotion

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: 30+

Q: Describe your dream meal?

A: On the French Riviera,

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: Travel across Australia for

all your assets, liabilities, income and whether your

lots of wine with two good friends

2-5 years

Q: Who would you rather have dinner with – Enda Kenny or Dame Edna?

A: Neither, could I swap for Bob Geldof?

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: Mediation Q: What do you plan to do when you retire?

A: Travel

need a fully detailed income and expenditure analysis plus a certified statement of affairs showing tax affairs are in order. For further information or a consultation, email me.

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

22 GAZETTE 15 September 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Breaking up the DublinWest Cork highway!

Great deals on offer on top beach holiday destinations like the Maldives, St Lucia and Cuba

TRAILFINDERS is offering a complimentary upgrade to full-board at Olhuveli Beach and Spa Resort in the Maldives from €1,629 per person (saving over €140 per person), based on two sharing. Available for selected departures from October 4 to 24, the price includes return flights from Dublin (via London Heathrow and Doha) with Qatar Airways, seven nights’ accommodation in a deluxe room on a full-board basis, resort speedboat transfers, taxes and surcharges.

A beautiful and romantic island retreat located on the tip of South Malé Atoll, Olhuveli Beach and Spa Resort offers stunning beaches, abundant sandbanks and superb recreational activities. Facilities include a selection of restaurants and bars, two large pools and an excellent watersports centre, with kite-surfing, wake boarding, big game fishing and dolphin safaris, to name but a few. A large, shallow blue lagoon surrounds the whole island, which also makes it great for snorkelling. For more information, see www.trailfind ers.ie or phone 01 677 7888 / 021 464 8800.

Tropical Sky

Tropical Sky is offering seven nights on an allinclusive basis at the four-star Coconut Bay Resort and Spa in St Lucia from €1,169 per person (save €410 per person). Valid for selected departures in September and October, the price includes flights from Dublin (via Gatwick) with British Airways, accommodation with a complimentary room upgrade, resort transfers, taxes and surcharges. Set along the exotic Savannes Bay, facilities include an on-site water park, three pools, four floodlit tennis courts, fitness room, spa with 12 treatment rooms, steam room, sauna and a selection of fine restaurants The same tour operator is offering a 10-night city and beach getaway to Cuba from €1,199 per person (save €390 per person). Available for selected departures in September and October, the price includes flights from Dublin (via Gatwick) with Virgin Atlantic, accommodation split between three nights at Hotel Sevilla in Havana on a bed-and-breakfast basis, and seven nights at Breezes Varadero on an all-inclusive basis, resort transfers, taxes and surcharges. The Hotel Sevilla is the ideal base for those wanting to explore Havana and offers a gym, swimming pool and rooftop restaurant with stunning views of the city. Breezes Varadero is located on the worldfamous Varadero Beach and offers a selection of watersports, jacuzzis and golf course. For more information, see www.tropicalsky.ie or phone 01 8077996 / 068 56800.

CORMAC CURTIS

After years, nay, decades, of complaining about the various bottlenecks on the Dublin-Cork road – Kildare, Monastervin, Abbeyleix, Mitchelstown etc. – the long-awaited motorway between the capital and the so-called ‘real’ capital of Ireland is now very much a reality.

So, the seven-hour drive to west Cork, for instance, has now been assigned to the “tell us about driving to Baltimore in the old days, granddad” category.

This is, in itself, a huge relief, but, along with satnav and GPS, the convenience of the non-stop drive has taken a little of the mystery out of holidaymaking at home.

In an effort to break up my family’s annual pilgrimage to West Cork for two weeks in August, we decided to stop off somewhere around Cork city for a night or two before descending on my mother-in-law’s house in the country.

As family attractions go, it’s hard to look past Fota Wildlife Park when it comes to getting kids excited.

The idea of seeing exotic animals from Go Diego Go up close and personal conjured up some magical anticipation in my four and fiveyear-old daughters.

Finding somewhere to stay was pretty straightforward; Cork city is not short of quality accommodation.

Instead of staying in the city itself, we decided to try the Radisson SAS on Little Island – it’s just off the Ring Road that brings you around the city and on to West Cork and Kerry, which meant we wouldn’t have to deal with any city traffic.

As usual, a few lastminute hiccups meant I was travelling with the kids while their mother took care of some business-related issues before catching up with us – translation: daddy brings the kids to the swimming pool at the hotel for an hour or two to use up some of their pent-up energy!

As I mentioned – the road to Cork is a good one these days, so after about two-and-a-half hours we pulled up at the hotel.

The Radisson SAS in Cork cannot be accused of boasting a scenic location – but that really isn’t the point.

Its neighbours may include Harvey Norman and KFC, but the hotel itself has a modern, contemporary design and, once inside, marble, glass and dark wood finishes complement each other and suggest a far more

CHILLING OUT AS well as a very child-friendly swimming area for the kids to enjoy, the Radisson SAS Hotel in Cork also offers a variety of beauty and spa treatments.

The spa offers a secure, unique environment of warmth, comfort and peace.

It features nine treatment rooms with a range of luxurious Elemis treatments and relaxation suites.

There is also a selection of packages available at the Retreat Spa, from oneday to two-night options.

For details, visit www.radissonblu.ie/ cork luxurious setting.

The staff, in true Cork fashion, couldn’t have been more welcoming, and the check-in only took moments; a real bonus when two little girls have just escaped from a car after a long drive!

As a family, it’s always nice to be booked in to a ground-floor room in a hotel, and that’s exactly what happened here – nice touch.

We were given a tworoom family suite, giving the kids the chance to

bounce on their double bed and eat the complimentary frosted cupcakes (like they needed any more energy!) while I unpacked and looked up the swimming pool information.

Bingo! The pool was open until six(ish) for the kids so it was swimming time.

A family changing room would have been nice – but the pool area was so close to our room it was no big deal.

The kids can’t get enough of bubbles and

waterfalls, so they had a blast. It was also nice to see a lifeguard on duty.

Thankfully, it wasn’t too long before Mama arrived, so we all got ready for dinner.

A good deal of thought has gone in to the design of the dining room, even if it has begun to look a touch worn here and there – the seats had lost some of their bounce, for instance.

This is easily overlooked, as our French waiter was charm personified, and the menu

15 September 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

TravelBriefs

Becky, Sarah and dad, Cormac, go wild at Fota Wildlife Park, left, and, above, the kids tuck into cupcakes at the Radisson SAS in Little Island, Cork

GETTING BACK TO NATURE FOTA Wildlife Park is set on 70 acres on the scenic Fota Island in the heart of Cork Harbour only 15 minutes from Cork City (top 10 in the best cities to visit in the Lonely Planet guide’s ‘Best in Travel 2010’).

The park is not like an ordinary zoo; here you can come face-to-face with free-roaming animals and birds from all parts of the world. So, whether it’s a kangaroo that hops in front of you, or a ring-tailed lemur that jumps down from a tree, each visit is sure to bring its own fantastic memories.

For more, visit www.fotawildlife.ie, or call (021) 481 267

had a great selection of kids’ options – not just smaller portions of the main menu.

As for the grown-ups, starters of crispy duck leg confit with sautéed savoy cabbage, smoked bacon and a port wine reduction, along with a baked goat’s cheese salad with mixed grapes, fig and lime chutney and cherry balsamic dressing were delicious.

When it came to the main course I went for a slow braised shank of lamb with colcannon,

roast root vegetables and red wine gravy, while the other side of the table opted for roast breast of corn-fed chicken and confit leg with parsnip puree, broad beans and jus roti. To say we finished our meal completely satisfied would be a gross understatement to say the least.

The only distraction during our meal was the swing-and-slide set just outside that the kids had spotted – a very nice touch to have such a simple activity for the

little ones to burn off the ice-cream they devoured after dinner!

Parents and kids retired to our rooms, ready for a good night’s sleep.

I’m a big fan of blackout blinds and our rooms didn’t let in the slightest chink of light, so we all slept soundly and woke just in time for breakfast.

After a terrific feed, we set off to Fota Wildlife Park – and what an experience that was.

From the meerkats as you enter the park, to the cheetahs chasing their

lunch at feeding time, this was a huge success.

As I mentioned – a good grounding in Go Diego Go in recent years has made my daughters expert in everything from baby jaguars and penguins, to sloths and baboons; I was truly impressed with how much the kids recognised.

A family could spend a whole day here enjoying the wildlife, as well as the various arts and crafts that the kids can dip and out of along the way – there’s even a train if it gets a bit

much for the little ones.

After our long and busy day, including a family visit along the way, we all enjoyed another great night’s sleep, another great breakfast, and another great swim before we headed on to West Cork for the rest of the holiday.

It has to be said that, even though there were weddings on both nights at the hotel, it didn’t interrupt our visit in the slightest, and we’ll be hearing about the zoo for a long time to come!

Plan a getaway to the beautifully plush surroundings of Tankardstown House in Meath STAY in the plush surroundings of Tankardstown House in Meath any Wednesday and Thursday, and visit Newgrange followed by the battle of the Boyne site with the hotel’s compliments.

Immerse yourself in archaeology and history for the day and discuss what has been, and what might have been, over dinner in their A la Carte Restaurant that night, which is located in the Garden Village at Tankardstown. In keeping with the battlefields, sip a glass of Warres Warrior Special Reserve before a sumptuous sleep in one of their plush Main House Heritage bedrooms. Beautifully decorated and extremely spacious, they make for a relaxing night’s sleep.

It costs €180 per person sharing and this rate includes accommodation, breakfast and dinner to the value of €35 per person, followed by a nightcap before bed.

Contact Details: info@ tankardstown. ie or call 0419824621.

The Radisson BLU is turning pink for breast cancer awareness THE Radisson BLU is turning pink for breast cancer awareness month this October . The Radisson Blu Royal Hotel in Dublin city centre is encouraging everyone to stop, relax and turn their lunch break into a charitable bite for Breast Cancer Awareness month.

Radisson Blu Royals are making a donation of €1 to the Irish Cancer Society for every person who orders food, tea or coffee in the hotel’s much-loved Sure Bar during Pink Month.

During last October, Sure Bar served 1,922 customers and, this year, they are hoping even more peckish people stop by to help put a stop to breast cancer.

The hotel will also be selling the famous pink ribbons at reception throughout the month and holding special staff events to give the fundraising a boost on Breast Cancer Awareness Day on October 7.

24 SWORDS GAZETTE 15 September 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1

GoingOUT GoingOUT MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340

Andrew Linnie and his Swing Orchestra WITH the help of his live jazz band, Andrew promises to bring the very best of Big Band, Broadway, Buble and beyond to the popular south Dublin venue, celebrating a wide range of crooner classics, Big Band standards, and much more, with music from samba to Sinatra sure to provide something for everyoone. The music starts at 8pm on Saturday, September 17, with admission costing €18.

PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Ger Carey Live

THE workings of the teenage brain are a lost mystery ... unless you’re either A) a teenager, or B) Ger Carey, whose latest comic show is set to prove beyond a doubt that he knows what it’s like to be a teenager. Aimed at young people between the ages of 15 and 18, his one-man comic show is set to help teenagers laugh at themselves and the complexities of their lives, as well as seeing their place in the bigger picture of society. Ger also says that grown-ups are welcome. Catch Ger’s show on Monday, September 19; to make a booking, call the box office on 01 231 2929.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Stones in his Pockets

THE award-winning comic tale of a quiet Irish community turned upside down by the arrival of a Hollywood movie shoot is sure to entertain, with two actors cleverly playing all 15 memorable characters in what guarantees to be a great night out. See Stones in his Pockets on Friday, September 16 and Saturday, September 17 at 8.15pm in Draiocht Studio, with admission costing €15/€13 conc.

Gary Oldman is back on top form as a cool-headed, somewhat ruthless intelligence agency figure in Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy

A deadly game of I-Spy Although something of an ironically-named character, Smiler is an intelligence agency’s best hope of finding a secret Soviet spy Q KATE CROWLEY

DISH du jour, Ryan Reynolds, returns to our screens this week with a new film. Or perhaps I’m mixing him, and that term, up with Ozzy Osbourne, who also graces our cinema screens with an equally Oscar-worthy film.

Reynolds, Osbourne ... you can see how a stunning cinema reviewer might get a little confused and mix them up, with a mind that has to remember ever y thing from reminding Mr Crowley to get going on clearing away autumn leaves in the back garden, to what one was doing back in the 1970s.

Fortunately, here’s something to give me – and a number of other old codgers (or codgerettes?)

– a mental blast from the past, with the release of Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy (based on the 1974 novel

by John Le Carre).

While younger readers

FILM OF THE WEEK: Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy +++++ (15A) 127 mins Director: Tomas Alfredson Starring: MGary Oldman, Colin Firth, Tom Hardy, John Hurt and some of the chilling aspects of life in the 1970s

OUR VERDICT: KATE’S summary note says that this film “has a refreshing reminder that the ’70s also had a lot of menace, in addition to the memorable wallpaper styles and flares”. And who are we to argue? Top marks from The Gazette’s reviewer for what she also describes as “a surprisingly cracking tale” which she also notes treats the audience as intelligent observers, who will enjoy its complexities.

may associate the decade, and the era, with amusing hairstyles and lots and lots – and lots – of orange and brown wallpaper, older readers (and gracefully maturing cinema reviewers) will associate the era with global paranoia.

Amongst other things, it was a time of frosty international relations, and the clinical, deadly Cold War that Soviet agents seemed to be embroiled in on a number of fronts (matched by counterpart British and American agents).

It’s in this icily cold setting of global chess

against Moscow spymasters that Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy is set, as the film opens with British spy agency, Circus, in disarray, following a bloody mission in Budapest.

Its head, Control (Hurt) is forced to retire, along with Smiley (Oldman) ... except, of course, that one never retires from one’s duties, and the British government is quick to seek discreet help in uncovering a spy, with Smiley her crumpled choice of agentdetective, of sorts.

The unsmiling Smiley is set to work, one

of the few men to know that the Soviets have a deadly and highly-placed agent at work near the top of Circus, with all of the potentially disastrous and double-crossed consequences that implies.

It’s down to the slightly shabby, yet ruthless Smiley to find the mole, and eliminate him, with a small pool of suspects to monitor and investigate.

However, all the while, the Soviets and Circus continue plotting their next moves in their neverending game of chess, with deadly results for any players that cross paths ...

It’s been a long time indeed since the Cold War seemed like such a hot topic, with wisps of frosty air practically tumbling down from the screen.

Still, although mistrust in governments never quite goes out of fashion, perhaps it’s a timely release for this tale, as its group of shabby and shady pro-

tagonists somehow stepping through events with, potentially, international consequences has some resonance with current economic and political affairs.

As for the film’s 1970s setting, I remember only too well the “joys” of re-threading typewriter ribbons, whacking my fingers with metal keys, shouting into discoloured plastic phones, and creating barely-legible copies of documents using fluttering sheets of blue carbon paper – all of which is brought to life in this surprisingly cracking tale.

I also half-remember the late ’70s television version of Le Carre’s spy novel, but this reimagined version seems to be truer to the tale.

And so, although we now seem to live in a modern world of iPads and Apps, this lost world of I-Spy is certainly worth applying oneself to, given the chance ...

15 September 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 25

GazetteGAMING GAMING An interesting case to follow Another weebyte game took place in a standard (if meticulously researched and recreated late-1940s) open-world setting, the game’s main characters, played by a variety of real actors – in some cases, famous ones – were filmed with MotionScan, a proprietory system that digitally recorded and recreated every last little muscle tick, gesture and expression of the actor’s.

This created many scenes where, at last, game characters really emoted, on a par with television, theatre and cinema performances.

This enabled gamers to investigate several crimes, ranging from arson to a serial killer’s handiwork, all the while attempting to judge whether characters were being truthful, evasive or downright lying.

Zombie’s dead silly mistake

From boarding houses to shabby bars, old dears to tough gh dames (inset), the downbeat world of LA Noire was a far cry from then Hollywoodland’s heights

Released mere months ago to near universal critical acclaim, one could be forgiven for assuming the developer behind it, Team Bondi, would be riding high on the crest of glorious critical – and financial – waves. Not so.

While not dead, the company has been placed into administration after

incurring significant costs from spending several years developing the title.

However, perhaps more damaging to the company are the very vocal criticisms that have emerged, post-release, of various working practices and management styles at the studio, with significant numbers of complaints

by former staff members, and spouses, creating lots of negative stories in the specialised gaming press.

It will be ironic indeed if a company that developed a game primarily focused on complex investigations is, itself, the subject of a number of investigations, leaving this as an open case to keep an eye on ...

IN KEEPING with the open-world theme of o this week’s main artith cle, many were looking cl forward to the recent fo release of Dead Island re – a luxury hotel island turned deathtrap, filled tu with hungry zombies. w Unfortunately, many PC owners got a shock when the wrong version of the game was released online via Steam, the popular digital distribution service, complete with gamedestroying problems.

The game’s red-faced developers were quick to apologise for what, in hindsight, was a dead silly mistake to make.

gazette

group All of your latest local news, sport, features and pictures are now just a click away

.com

IF A week is a long time in politics, six months is, well, a long time for everybody, but can bookend a games company’s most triumphant moment, followed by its unexpectedly rapid decline.

Given the costs of games’ development, and their quarterly importance to parent companies, there is, usually, a tremendous amount of pressure behind the scenes of what may look like a solild-gold hit.

While not a brand-new release, there’s been a surge of renewed interest in the recently-released (and very high-profile) multiplatform title, LA Noire , thanks to the developer behind it entering administration, mere months after rolling out

what was a hit in most global gaming markets.

Set in a post-World War II Los Angeles, and, as the title suggests, LA Noire took part almost exclusively on the wrong side of the tracks in the starstruck city.

It tasked the player with investigating all manner of murders and crimes as a lowly cop, gradually rising through the ranks to uncover far-reaching, rotten conspiracies.

Played out as a very straight-faced title, free of the mischievous adult humour found in similar “sandbox” titles, such as the Grand Theft Auto series, LA Noire was a fascinating (if slightly dull) title, with a look at some superb new technologies that are likely to reappear in gaming.

While much of the

www.

SHANE DILLON

GAZETTE

26 SWORDS GAZETTE 15 September 2011

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15 September 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

ORIENT EXPRESS: Local racer blazing trail on Japanese F3 circuit Page 29

COACHING SKILLS: LEGENDARY EXPERT COMING TO PORTMARNOCK FOR CLINIC

Soccer coaching gets a Horst boost next week sport@gazettegroup.com

THE White Sands Hotel in Portmarnock will host a special soccer clinic event from Friday, September 20 to Sunday, October 2, when they host renowned soccer coach, Horst Wein, who will give his unique take on coaching and mentoring young players.

The sessions are designed to help coaches help young players to reach their full potential

and even develop some future stars, while contributing to the playing of the beautiful game.

Horst Wein’s model promotes development over winning at all costs, so that creative, intelligent players flourish and all young footballers get a fair chance to develop to their full potential. It differs from traditional coaching methods in style, substance and in the structure of the competitions that the kids

play. Many of the key elements of the model have been in place in countries like Spain and Holland for many years and more recently in England, Germany, Scotland, Denmark, much of South America and even Australia.

In 1985, when Horst was a master hockey coach, he was invited

by Carles Reixach (who went on to serve as assistant coach to Johan Cruyff) to demonstrate his

Internationally renowned coach Horst Wein will be giving a masterclass in Portmarnock

methods at FC Barcelona.

They liked them so much that they purchased his hockey books, presumably to adapt some games and exercises for football.

The club then encouraged Horst to move from hockey to football where he created the youth football development model and he has never looked

back. To this day the youth coaches at Barcelona still use Horst’s football books.

A coach from Portmarnock, who undertook the course recently, said: “Horst gave a very interesting talk that focused on learning the game well, rather than just about winning the

game. If only all six-yearolds began their career this way then maybe they would reach teenage years loving and appreciating the skills needed, rather than checking their trophy cupboard.

And the same could be said for us coaches, too, if truth be told. Horst was a breath of very fresh and

invigorating air.”

Practical outdoor coaching sessions are at Portmarnock AFC, which is close to the hotel, and full-day attendees on either Saturday or Sunday will receive a certificate.

Prices start at €30 and more information on the event can be found at www.beautifulgame.ie

28 SWORDS GAZETTE 15 September 2011

GazetteSport Sport

New skills were learned

Practise makes perfect for stars of the future

Fingallians’ friends

Fins’ fun day

Festival of fun in Fingal sun HE Fingallians family fun day took place last weekend amidst glorious sunshine and a fantastic festival atmosphere.

Hundreds turned out to show their football and hurling skills in the various sporting events.

Magicians, face-painters and DJs provided the entertainment and the free barbecue, candyfloss and popcorn stands proved highly popular when all the participants had worked up an appetite.

The day was a huge success and, hopefully, will become a permanent fixture in the Fingallians CLG calendar.

Smiles abounded as everyoneenjoyed the good weather and great atmosphere

T

All ages were catered for at the fun day

Keeper’s ball!

A fun day was had by all

15 September 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 29

in association with

From Mondello to Motegi, Japan Making a huge name for himself in F3 is local motor racing star, Gary Thompson. ROB HEIGH spoke to the prodigy on a recent trip back home WE’RE getting used to our talented sportsmen and women going abroad to achieve the success they deserve on a world stage. The opportunities to make a huge mark in your sport often requires you to leave the comforts of home and the limited facilities available to those with the skills to make their mark globally.

One man who has made that jump, and at a very young age, is Malahide motor racing wunderkind, Gary Thompson. The 19-yearold has gone from watching racing at Mondello to flying around the tracks of Japan in their F3 series.

GazetteSport spoke to Gary just after he claimed his first first-place podium finish he has been chasing

since he started racing in Japanese Forumla 3, and he was delighted with the win.

“It’s been a long time coming, for sure. It feels like a long time since the

sport in 2002, when he began to show his promise in the Irish and international cadet class. Even before that, he was desined to make his mark in motor racing.

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

‘In Japan, the racing is at a high level, but it has very little exposure in Europe. You need to let everyone know how well you are doing.’

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last win, so it was great to get that. Everyone’s been working really hard for the last few years, and it’s great for it all to finally come together.”

The young driver has shown immense talent since his debut in the

“My dad used to race at Mondello Park in the Formula Opel. I remember from a young age being there, being around the cars and watching racing, sitting in the car and asking if I could drive them when I was about five.

Gary Thompson celebrates his success at the Motegi race track in Japan

Then when I was nine, one day my dad came back from a motor show in Britain, and he had been talking to someone about racing cars, and he realised that was an opening for me to start racing at that age.

“I started driving cadet carts from age 8 to 12, which were 60cc or so. I did one year in Ireland. I ended up in England for races the next year, and I was doing really well, so we decided to keep racing over there as the standard and opportunities were much higher. I raced over there for about four years, before doing two years racing in Europe before I moved to Asia.”

Connections in Asia, through his father and the motor racing fraternity, meant that Gary was able to capitalise on the promise of his form in Europe.

“I started driving in Asia in 2009. Before that, my dad was managing a driver out there. From being out there, my dad had a lot of contacts, and ended up part-owning a team out there, racing Formula BMW Pacific cars. The plan was that I was going to go out there and drive for them in 2009, but, unfortunately, the team folded before the season began. I had all of the contacts, and that seemed to be the best place to develop my career.

“The Japanese part came about after my first

car race in 2009, in a support race to the Asian Grand Prix. I qualified on pole and won the main race. After that, the owner of the KPMG team that I drive for now approached me and offered me a place with their team in Japan, and I accepted.”

Gary is very clear about his ambitions, and how he will achieve them.

“The ultimate goal is to be F1 world champion.

In an ideal world, I would graduate to Formula Nippon next year, which is a place where a lot of drivers come through - Eddie Irvine drove there before he moved on to F1. It’s one step below F1, but it is not really considered on the ladder, from a European point of view.

It’s only solely based in Japan, but GP2 is classed as the main feeder for F1.

“In Nippon, the cars are slightly quicker, the drivers are getting paid. In GP2, you need to put in about €1.5m every year.

“From Nippon, you can progress straight to F1, but there would be a lot of work involved. It is in Japan, it is a high level, but it has very little exposure in Europe. You need to let everyone know how well you are doing. It also helps that the head of the KPMG team is really enthusiastic about motor racing, and he has dreams of putting together an F1 team. So this would seem to be the best road to go down at the moment.”

FastSport

Solheim excitement rises as teams are announced WITH the recent announcements of both the European and American teams, it is now all systems go for The 2011 Solheim Cup, which will be staged for the first time in Ireland on the Jack Nicklaus Signature Course at Killeen Castle this September 23 to 25.

Up to 80,000 people are expected to attend over the six days – three practise days on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, and the three days of competition, Friday through Sunday.

Solheim Cup Director, Roddy Carr said: “The Solheim Cup is a truly great golfing spectacle and, with players like Laura Davies and Michelle Wie competing, this unique event is a must-see for sports and entertainment fans.”

A range of anyday and season tickets are available on www.solheimcup.com, www.ticketmaster.ie or by calling with 0818719309.

HQ hosting unique prefinal night bash CROKE Park is hosting a prefootball final bash, FeverPitch, this Saturday, September 17.

Headquarters is opening its doors on the eve of the final to capture the unique atmosphere and offer supporters from Dublin, Kerry and Tipperary a focal point to gather in friendly rivalry on the eve of the final with the cream of

Irish entertainment.

The line-up for the night includes live music from Ryan Sheridan, The Inishturkbeg Collective and The Cuban All Stars, ,along with Dublin bands Royseven and The Riptide Movement, as well as comedy stand-up with Neil Delamere, Fred Cooke and Colm O’Regan, and insight from sporting legends Jimmy Magee and Peter Canavan.

The show begins at 7pm and, for more information, see gaa.ie

30 SWORDS GAZETTE 15 September 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

SOCCER: BIG WINS IN LEAGUE AND CUP TIES FOR SWORDS

Fingal back in action after summer recess FINGAL hockey club have made a series of key signings over the summer month as they look to reclaim a place in the Irish Hockey League via a fifth place finish in the Leinster league this term.

Ken Treacy returns to the club after a successful stint with Pembroke which saw him win the IHL, Irish Senior and Junior Cups and help the club to the last 16 of the EuroHockey League.

Former Irish underage internationals, Derek O’Gorman and Brian Gray, also return while Tom Manning, a senior club hurler in his native Kilkenny, has also freed himself up to play a more prominent role.

They begin their campaign against Pembroke at ALSAA on Saturday.

Summerfest set for next weekend THE 2011 Tesco mobile SARI Summerfest, the largest intercultural soccer tournament in Ireland, is set to take part this year at the Garda and Camogie Sports Grounds, in Phoenix Park on September 10 and 11 from 11am to 5pm each day.

The Summerfest will also coinciude with the CONCERN kitefest, where kite flyers from around the world will display their kites and give kite workshops for children.

The two-day festival also includes a wide array of entertainment for all the family.

For more information, see www. facebook.com/sarireland.

Castleknock Celtic seeking ladies talent CASTLEKNOCK Celtic FC’s ladies and girls section are recruiting new talent to the cllub for the soccer season starting later this month.

If you were born in 1996 or earlier, visit the club’s website at www.castleknockceltic.com, and pass on your name and contact details in the How To Join section provided on the site.

The club are also looking to recruit girls born in 2001/2002 to play soccer in the DubliGirls Soccer League.

Swords Celtic’s underage teams scored some 70 goals against a wide range of opposition in their fixtures last weekend

Celtic scoring at will UNDER-18 PREMIER Balbriggan Swords Celtic

0 3

sport@gazettegroup.com

ANOTHER week of action in the underage sections at Swords Celtic saw an avalanche of scores in the fixtures, as well as some fine battling performances from all of the players who took to the field.

There was a highscoring win for the Under-13E team when seven of their players were on the scoresheet when the side travelled to Loughshinny to play their league cup tie against the home team.

Michael Ikoro and

Mark O’Shea both scored hat-tricks in the highest-scoring game of the weekend that saw Celtic hit 13 unanswered goals in a somewhat one-sided tie.

Pitch 1 at Balheary Road saw the Under-18 Premier team clash with local rivals, Swords Rovers. Both of last season’s fixtures between the two teams resulted in 3-3 and 2-2 draws.

Last weekend’s match saw Rovers go 2-0 ahead before Celtic pulled two goals back to level the game.

Rovers pulled ahead again to lead 4-2, before Celtic again levelled the game. They then took

the lead, 5-4, with minutes to go.

The final score of the game came from a Swords Rovers free-kick which drew the game at 5-5, and that was how the tie finished.

Kylin-ical V i t o r Ky l i n w a s a m o n g s t t h e s c o rers for the Under-17 B team in their league game against visitors Ashbourne, that saw another Celtic side win in convincing fashion.

The home side led by four goals to nil at half time, and went on to record another huge Celtic victory by 9-0.

Also at home, the

Under-11B team earned their second draw of the season when goals from Darragh Markey and Zac W helan earned them a share of the spoils in their league cup match against visiting Clogherstown.

Celtic could have taken all the points after their goalkeeper saved a Clogherstown penalty, but the visitor’s striker slipped into net to give Celtic their second draw of the week.

Their season started away to Swords Rovers last Thursday, when a Danny Delaney freekick put Celtic ahead early in the game before a strong comeback left

Rovers 2-1 ahead with minutes to go.

Determination from Celtic led to a nonstop onslaught on the Rovers goal, leading a last-minute equaliser from their new signing, Jerfferson.

Elsewhere in the midweek games, the Under-12 Premier side we l c o m e d B a l s c a d den Boys to Balheary last Thursday, and beat them by 3-0.

Meanwhile, the Under-13A team continue their impressive unbeaten run, which now extends to over one year when they beat Baldoyle away by a single goal.

Local helps Ireland to world title sport@gazettegroup.com

LOCAL players and former Dubs now living in Australia, were to the fore when Ireland’s Aussie Rules team, the Warriors, won the International Cup in Melbourne recently.

Gerard Lenihan from Swords, who plays for Kenmore Bears in Brisbane, was among the players who completed a clean sweep after the unbeaten Irish Banshees had won the women’s competition, at the most famous stadium in Australia, the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

The Warriors came back from a 28-point deficit midway through the second term to defeat the favourites, Papua New Guinea Mosquitoes, by 18 points. Final score Ireland 8 goals 5 points - 53 to Papua New Guinea 5 goals 5 points - 35.

It was an extraordinary tournament for the Irish Warriors in the 18-nation event that brings Aussie Rules’ playing nations from around the world to Australia for this prestigious event, held every three years.

Before the final victory, Ireland had wins over East Timor, Great

Britain, Sweden, Denmark and New Zealand to reach their first final since the inaugural tournament in 2002.

Warriors’ captain Cian Quigley said that just getting to run out onto the MCG was a huge honour for the players.

“For every Irish person, you dream of playing in Croke Park, for Aussies the dream is to play at the ‘G’. We realise how lucky we are to play out here. It’s a huge honour and a bit surreal really to be honest.”

The teacher, who played in the cup in 2005 and captained the

side in 2008, said the win was consolation for previous disappointments.

“I’ve lost out in two semi-finals before this (in 2005 and 2008) so to finally get to a final and win it is unbelievable.”

The skipper paid tribute to the mental strength of his side in their comeback win.

“At the start we were thinking too much of the occasion and PNG were way ahead. We needed half-time to just calm down.

Winning probably won’t sink in for another week or two, but it’s just unbelievable.”

15 September 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 31

in association with

FINGALLIANS: U-16 AND INTER SIDES IN ACTION

CLUB NOTICEBOARD FINGALLIANS THE final countdown: the club would

membership application form on

like to wish Paul Flynn and the Dub-

www.fingallians.ie

lin senior and minor teams the very

All-Ireland Football Final Tickets

best of luck next Sunday in Croke

will be distributed to members on

Park.

Thursday night from 9.30pm in the

Congratulations to Catherine

club. The lucky members must pick

Walsh who won a bronze medal at

up and pay for their ticket on the

the Paracycling World Champion-

night. Follow the club on twitter for

ship in Denmark last Friday.

up to date ticket information this

The sun was shining on The Fingal-

week.

lians Family Funday on Saturday.

Fingallians’ Colours Night takes

There was a great festival atmos-

place on this Saturday, Septem-

phere of sport, music, entertain-

ber 17. This is one of the best social

ment and fun. The club would like

occasions in the club calendar.

to thank the volunteers and staff

Bia, Craic agus ceol. There will be

that made the day a great success.

a barbecue on the night and a live

Thanks also to all the members and

band followed by DJ Shay. Warm-up

non members who attended. If you

for the big game at Fingallians and

attended as a guest and would like

wear your county or club colours

to join the club, please download a

with pride.

FINGAL RAVENS Fingallians’ Under-16s did themselves proud in their derby tie against local rivals, St Sylvester’s

LOTTO: Numbers drawn were 14, 28,

Annual duck-race and cross-coun-

33 and 40. There was no jackpot win-

try challenge for all age groups will

Fingallians get their derby day revenge

ner.

take place on Sunday, September 25

Congratulations to our U-12 and

the All-Ireland final, the committee

U-16 DIV 1 C’SHIP

U-14 girls’ teams who both won their

have decided that only members who

championship matches last Sunday.

have ordered tickets through the

Well done to all the girls and their

club so far this year will be entered

mentors.

into the draw for the tickets.

Fingallians St Sylvester’s

2-4 0-4

sport@gazettegroup.com

F I N GA L L I A N S g o t instant revenge over local rivals St Sylvester’s as they again made the short trip over to their arch rivals for the opening match of the Girls’ U-16 division one championship.

Having lost out to Syl’s in the division two league decider the previous week, there was pressure on Fins to chase a result this time around.

With strong winds blowing down the pitch, this was always going to be a tough scoring day.

Fins played the first half playing against the wind, but got off to a great start when, after five minutes, an end-toend move was brilliantly finished off by Blaithnid McKenna for a deserved lead.

For the remainder of the first half, Syl’s piled

on the pressure but some great defending and the ability to take chances presented meant that, after playing against the wind, Fins’ led at the break by 1-1 to 0-3.

The second half was played at the same high standard, with both promoted teams proving their worth in the top grade.

Fins pressed hard with the wind and made sure of the win with a well-worked goal by Megan Campbell with 10 minutes to go. A win ensures a great start to the championship for Fins and some measure of revenge for the difficult loss in the league final last week. Next up for Fins is Foxrock/Cabinteely next Monday at home.

Meanwhile, Fingallians’ hurlers suffered a big blow when they fell to St Vincent’s last Sunday morning in their intermediate championship relegation tie. They

fell 1-10 to 1-8 to the Marino men.

SFC draw In the senior football championship, the club is also in the relegation pool and will face either Ballyboden St Enda’s or St Mary’s in the week ending October 2, following the release of the draw on Monday night.

Dublin’s involvement in the All-Ireland final has seen the competition suspended since May, with Fins’ Paul Flynn a key player.

With the Swords’ club in competition for the

AFL2 promotion places, too, the senior side have been out of competitive action for a month while they wait to get the likes of Flynn back in harness for a key period of the season.

Fingal Ravens are also awaiting the outcome of that Boden and St Mary’s tie – initially delayed due to Mary’s exclusion from the competition but they have subsequently reinstated.

A tie against St Peregrine’s in the offing for whoever wins that tie in one particularly convoluted area of the draw.

The following each receive €20:

at 2pm at Kinsella’s Bridge , Lispop-

Brian Duffy, Pat Norton, Damien

ple. Please get your sponsorship

McGovern.

cards from your mentors.

Next week’s jackpot now stands at €2,526.

Committee meeting on Thursday in Kettle’s Hotel at 8pm.

Due to the large volume of requests that we have received, and the number of tickets that we have been advised that we will be allocated for

ST FINIAN’S CONGRATUL ATIONS to the adult

football final tickets should give

ladies’ football team who secured

their names in to the Clubhouse

promotion last Monda y evening

or to Jim Shelly. The lucky winners

with a victory over St Mark’s in

must collect their tickets before

River Valley. The team are trained

noon on Saturday or they will be

and coached by Brian Featherstone

redistributed.

and have been consistently good all season.

The first-team footballers have

The winner of the hurling prediction was Mark Kelly who predicted the exact score.

their final league match of the sea-

Gaelic4mothers is back on Thurs-

son away to O’Dwyer’s on Saturday

day at 9pm in the Community Cen-

evening.

tre. Come along and learn the skills

The camogie nursery is back Saturday mornings from 10 to 11am for 5- to 7-year-olds, new recruits welcome.

Members who wish to be included in the draw for allocated All-Ireland

of the game, make new friends and have a bit of fun.

There is a table quiz at 9pm in the community centre on Thursday in aid of the Renal Unit in Beaumont Hospital.

Follow GazetteSport on Facebook and Twitter and at www.gazettegroup.com

ALL OF YOUR SWORDS SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

SUPER 70: Swords Celtic sides score 70 goals across all underage levels P30

SEPTEMBER 15, 2011

NEED FOR SPEED Making waves in Japanese F3 P29

Flynn set for AllIreland challenge

GazetteSPORT

Paul Flynn, seen here with fellow Dublin footballer, Kevin Nolan, is set for the test of Kerry at Croke Park in the senior football final

Fingallians’ man ready to face Kerry at Croker as the Dubs chase first football crown since 1995 this weekend STEPHEN FINDLATER swordssport@gazettegroup.com

WITH All-Ireland final day fast approaching, Fingallians’ man Paul Flynn is looking forward to putting in his now trademark work-rate for the Dubs against Kerry on Sunday in Croke Park.

The Swords’ man has been one of the revelations in Pat Gilroy’s side, as they go in search of a 23rd senior football crown and first since 1995.

The previous one does not ring too many bells in his memory, but he knows that the side will have to strain every sinew to get past a fancied Kingdom side.

“I do what I have to do, and the hard work comes first. I try to get a good supply of ball into the full-forward line and link up the play,” he said.

“After that I try to get a few scores, if possible and, this year, I’ve been doing that, but it’s a bonus. If I can pass the ball to someone

else 10 times and we get 10 scores, I’ll be just as happy.”

He will not be inhibited by injury as initially feared, showing some mirth at the level of concern for his well-being after he came off a few minutes from the end of the semi-final tie against Donegal.

Jitters

His hamstring had “popped”, causing plenty of jitters as supporters worried that a potential All-Star candidate was set to be ruled out of the decider.

“When it happened, I was just frustrated.

When you hear that popping you fear the worst, but once I saw the scans I was delighted.

“I’ve never had trouble with my hamstrings before, but maybe because it’s so far into the season now that it’s just getting a little bit tired.

“I was definitely 100% alright before the Donegal game. It happened in the 67th minute,

so I’m sure it was just fatigue.

“People keep asking me about it, but it’s the same question, same answer. I should probably go around with a sticker on my head saying ‘I’m grand’.”

While the Donegal tie was one of the scrappiest on record, many have viewed it as a formative moment for the Dubs, a victory that may not have been ground out two years ago.

Posed this question, and whether the mental strength will be a factor, Flynn says simply: “We’ll never know. We maybe wouldn’t have the character the lads showed but I think we have developed as a group. Against Tyrone [in the quarter-finals], we’ve shown we have developed as a group and, against Donegal, we were able to win dirty.

“In fairness to Pat, he’s done really well, great work on our defensive system and now it’s not hindering our attacking as well. We’ve got a lot of talent there so, hopefully, we can keep it up.”