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YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER

INSIDE: Get a healthier and fitter lifestyle P10

Football: Fingallians in league, play-off fixture mix-up Page 32

Soccer: Swords Celtic progress in cup competitions Page 30

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ................. 8-9 MOTORS ........................19 BUSINESS .................... 21 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

October 20, 2011

FIGHT NIGHT: White Collar Boxing

comes to the Wright Venue: See Page 3

Call for public to be aware of fires Q MIMI MURRAY

FINGAL County Council is bracing itself for a mammoth clean-up bill ahead of next week’s Halloween celebrations.

Last year, the council was forced to fork out €150,000 to deal with the mess and damage left behind after Halloween bonfires.

According to the council, the burnt earth on parklands

and open spaces can take approximately 18 months to recover.

A spokesperson appealed this week for members of the community to take care, saying that the burning of tyres and other toxic materials release, pollutants into the atmosphere that are bad for people’s health, especially those with asthma or respiratory diseases.

Full Story on Page 4

Suits you Miss: Emma makes the most of free style advice EMMA Suits was among some very

happy locals, this week, who took advantage of free beauty make-overs when TV3’s Xpose stylist, Courtney Smith, was at Swords Pavilions, bringing with her free fashion shows and

styling advice. Make-up artists and nail artists were on hand to give the ladies a fresh new look, as well as some top styling advice, leaving them pampered as they went about the rest of their day.

Full Gallery on Pages 8-9

2 SWORDS GAZETTE 20 October 2011

EXHIBITION TRANSPORT Byelection candidate urges Varadkar to dispel rumours

Georgian Society event Q MIMI MURRAY

A RECENT exhibition run by the Irish Georgian Society in Farmleigh on Traditional Building and Conser vation Skills may be brought to nor th Dublin, Fingal County Council has said.

The hugely successful exhibition was organised by the Irish Georgian Society and sponsored by Fingal County Council.

N ow t h e c o u n t y ’s conservation office is actively investigating the possibility of hosting a similar event at a north Dublin heritage property in the near future.

The council made the comments in response to a query from Independent Councillor David O’Connor at a county council meeting last week.

Minister must give clarity on Metro link Q MIMI MURRAY

TRANSPORT Minister Leo Varadkar must give clarity on the multimillion euro light rail system Metro North, Green Party’s Dublin West byelection candidate Roderic O’Gorman said this week.

The Green politician said that Metro North would not only give commuters in Swords a direct link to the city centre but would enhance Dublin as a destination for international investment and

create thousands of jobs while it was being built.

However, he said it was essential that clarity on the project be given by the Transport Minister following a summer of rumours that it is to be scrapped.

“Over the summer, rumours have leaked out into the media that Metro North and the Dart Interconnector are to be cancelled. Minister Varadkar needs to take the opportunity of the Dublin West byelection campaign to give clarity on this issue,” he said.

Important

“Metro North is a particularly important issue for people living in Swords. When I was canvassing there during the week, many people raised their concerns with me about whether the project would proceed. I have made it clear that, if I

Metro North map and Transport Minister, Leo Varadkar (inset)

am elected, I will be a strong voice in the Dail pressuring the Government to deliver on their promises to Swords and north Dublin.

“While I accept that the Metro West project could not be afforded at this stage, Metro North and the interconnector are vital to Dublin

city’s future development and also that of the greater Dublin area.

International companies want to see a city with a developed public transport infrastructure to cope with population increases. The number of people living in Fingal has grown by 14% over the last five years.

We must not make the mistakes of the Celtic Tiger years when we lost the opportunity to give Dublin the transport infrastructure it needs.

“A sum of €4 billion was budgeted in the four-year plan for public transport, so the EU/IMF are satisfied to allow us undertake this

work. With Ireland’s bond yields decreasing, we will be able to borrow for some of the cost.

The Government will also be able to attract private finance, as the Metro would be a regulated asset and therefore investors would be guaranteed a return,” he said.

Fingal volunteers honoured for 20 years of service to community Q MIMI MURRAY

TWO Fingal citizens, who have given over 20 years of service to their communities, have been honoured at a special ceremony.

Maureen Hickey, from Swords, and Eileen Allman, from Malahide, who are both volunteers of the Fingal Citizens Information Service, received a certificate and commemorative bowl at the event which was held at the EU Commission Office in Dublin.

The ceremony was hosted by the Citizens Information Board (CIB) and the National Association of Citizens Information Services. The occasion was marked in this the European Year of the Volunteer by the attendance of

Minister of State for European Affairs, Lucinda Creighton.

Speaking at the event, Tony McQuinn, chief executive, Citizens Information Board paid tribute to those who were being honoured saying: “Volunteers have played an essential part in the development of Citizens Information Services and continue to be integral to the delivery of this community based service. They bring commitment, life experience and a vast range of skills to their role.

“This event, which is particularly appropriate in this the European Year of Volunteers, acknowledges the volunteers who have dedicated themselves for the past twenty years or more,

to ensuring that their local communities, especially the vulnerable or socially excluded, have access to information on entitlements and services and the assistance needed in securing them.”

The Fingal Citizens Information Service now has 62 volunteers, with 10 volunteers with 20 years or more service.

Nationwide there are 1,175 volunteers working. This is one of a number of events due to take place around the country to mark the contribution of volunteers to the Citizens Information Service.

Meanwhile, Andrew McCann, development manager of the Fingal ser vice

said: “I am delighted with the recognition of the extensive commitment volunteers have given to their local centre.

This is the second year of the National Volunteer Awards Programme, in addition to our local programme, that recognises volunteers who have been with the service for 5 years or more.”

In 2010 the Fingal service dealt with 36,329 queries and 24,306 callers to the service.

To date the service has seen a 20% increase in both queries and callers in 2011, compared to the same period in 2010, which is obviously due to the current economic difficulties encountered by many.

20 October 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 3

EVENT Conor Ahern brings us the second big boxing event

EDUCATION

Loreto places in high demand Q MIMI MURRAY

White Collar fighters from the event organised by Conor Ahern Promotions.

White Collar Warriors all set for the ultimate test WHITE Collar Warriors will step into the ring and put their skills to the ultimate test in front of a sell-out crowd at the Wright Venue in Swords this Friday.

The Las Vegas-style fight night, the second event organised by Conor Ahern Promotions, promises to be packed full of excitement and emotion with 15 fights, across a variety of weight classes, scheduled for the night.

Promoter and former Irish flyweight amateur champion, Conor Ahern says the fighters have prepared well over the training camp, are raring to go and hope to give the crowd a very enter-

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‘I have used my experience to show them that boxing is the best workout anyone can get’

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

Conor Ahern

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

taining evening.

“We started off small in Xtreme Fitness in Airside and just grew and grew.

Most of the people that come through the doors of the gym are ordinary people that just want to get fit and have a better quality of life.

“I have used my experience to show them that boxing is the best workout anyone can get, and with the right supervision, motivation, safety measures and training, boxing is a very safe and enjoyable pastime that can lead to nights like this, where the skills and sacrifice can be displayed in front of a full house.

“It’s the closest the man on the street can get to a shot at the title,” he said.

A White Collar Boxing event is one of the fastestgrowing, high-adrenalin, sports and entertainment nights out in Ireland.

All of the fighters spend eight weeks in training camp where Conor instils

Castle arch next for restoration work THE next phase of restoration works at Swords Castle is the stabilisation of the entrance arch, Swords/Balbriggan area committee meeting heard last week.

Fianna Fail Councillor Darragh Butler praised the council for the work completed to date and asked them for an update on the regeneration

work.

“The next phase of restoration works at Swords Castle is the stabilisation of the entrance arch. Ministerial approval for these works has been received and arrangements have been made for archaeological oversight during preliminary enabling works. It is intended that works on the arch will

commence as soon as the archaeology reports are completed. During the works access to the Castle Keep will be restricted to pedestrian access from Swords’ Town Park. The works are expected to be completed in an 8-12 week period. Ministerial approval has not been received for other works,” the council said.

the fighter’s philosophy of training regularly, eating intelligently, drinking responsibly and living wisely.

Fights are scheduled for three ninety second rounds and Ahern hopes that the quality of the

fights and the progress the fighters have made will encourage and inspire more people to take up this active lifestyle.

Tickets can be bought f o r € 2 5 o n w w w. premier tickets.ie/ events/551/White-Col-

lar-Boxing-Tickets.html.

For further information and guest list please contact: Conor Ahern, w h i t e c o l l a r b ox i n g @ yahoo.com or 085 113 0871.

CALLS for the Department of Education and Skills to expedite the provision of the planned extension to Loreto College, R iver valley, Swords have been made

by Dublin West Labour byelection candidate, Patrick Nulty.

“The secondary school has a long-standing application with the Department for largescale capital funding, and I understand that it has band 1 rating.

“Given the demand for places in Loreto, and the increasing population in Rivervalley, Swords, and the surrounding area, it is clear that this project must be advanced as a matter of urgency.

“I am calling on the Department of Education and Skills to treat this matter with the urgency it deser ves.

The pupils and parents deserve nothing less,” he said.

4 SWORDS GAZETTE 20 October 2011

COUNCIL ‘Halloween bonfires create fire risks, pose nuisance and incur costs’

Communities urged to help prevent costly fires Q MIMI MURRAY

swords@gazettegroup.com

FINGAL County Council (FCC) is trying to avoid a €150,000 cleanup bill after the Halloween bonfires.

This is the figure the council spent after last year’s festivities, which

creates burnt earth on parklands and open spaces, which take approximately 18 months to recover before the grass grows back.

FCC said that the burning of tyres and other toxic materials that release pollutants into the atmosphere, which

are bad for people’s health, especially those with asthma or respiratory diseases.

They said that children, adults and pets are at high risk of injury and trauma from both fireworks and bonfires.

Communities, and especially older people, can

become afraid when they see a bonfire and hear the associated noise.

A council spokesperson said: “The emergency fire and ambulance services have an important and very busy job to do fighting fires and saving lives, and bonfires are an unnecessary and avoida-

ble extra burden on these busy men and women.”

The spokesperson said that there are things that the community can do to prevent such fire risks.

“Contact FCC if you see a bonfire being built, or if you see materials such as pallets, tyres and old furniture being

hoarded in advance of Halloween.

“Do not leave material lying around that may be taken for a bonfire.

Many garage or garden shed items, such as petrol, white spirits, diesel, aerosols, batteries, tins of paint, bottles and tyres are extremely dangerous

if set on fire.

“Explain the dangers of illegal fireworks and bonfires to children and teenagers.

“In the event of an emergency, contact your local garda station, or the emergency services immediately,” said the spokesperson.

TRANSPORT

CHARITY: CHRISTMAS APPEAL

Call to improve bus lane

Fill a shoebox with hope for a needy child

CALLS for improvements to the Swords Quality Bus Corridor (QBC) have been made by Swords Labour councillor, Patrick Nulty, Dublin West byelection candidate.

He said: “The Swords QBC must be improved, alongside the provision of Metro North, and in the absence of Dublin Bus being given unhindered access to the Port Tunnel.

“The QBC comes up against a bottleneck in Drumcondra, where the road narrows to a single lane in both directions.

“Given the drop in property prices, the cost in acquiring the properties causing the obstruction should be minimal.

“I am calling on Dublin Bus, Dublin City Council and the National Transport Authority to work together to ensure this relatively low-cost improvement to Swords public transport can be achieved,” he said.

With Sam and the lads: The All-Ireland victors’ civic reception COUNCILLOR Darragh Butler couldn’t resist holding aloft a certain well-known trophy when Fingal County Council hosted a civic reception for the 2011 All-Ireland football champions recently.

The Fianna Fail councillor met “Sam” and local lad, and St Finian’s GAA player, Sean Ralph, at the reception, where they congratulated Dublin players, including Darren Daly, Barry Cahill and Paul Flynn.

Q MIMI MURRAY

swords@gazettegroup.com

LAST year, North County Dublin sent 11,117 Christmas Shoeboxes to needy children in Africa and Eastern Europe, where many families live on €1 a day.

There are 339,798 households/families in North County Dublin and, this year, Team Hope is calling on every family or household to fill one Christmas Shoebox.

The county with the biggest percentage increase in Christmas shoeboxes will be awarded the Team Hope Cup of Hope.

Carol Hennessey, Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal manager, said: “There are more than 1.4 million households in Ireland.

“If every house did one shoebox, imagine the difference that would make to so many children, and that doesn’t even include if businesses around Ireland also filled some shoeboxes.

“Many of these children will get nothing else but this shoebox gift this Christmas.

“Our local coordinators have been so helpful over the years, and we are really looking forward to having a record number of shoeboxes this year.

“It’s easy to take part,

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‘The gifts can be things like copy books or crayons – things we take for granted here, but which will mean so much to families who have to live on less than €1 a day’ --------------------------

Carol Hennessey, Team Hope Christmas Shoebox Appeal --------------------------

yet the kindness of every Irish person who does, can make a needy child’s Christmas a Christmas of hope, and one they will never forget.

“Filling a Team Hope Christmas Shoebox is a great way of teaching children the art of giving, and the gifts can be things like copy books or crayons – things we take for granted here, but which will mean so much to families who have to live on less than €1 a day,” she said.

An Irish charity, Team Hope hopes that the numbers of shoeboxes will increase significantly, by at least 25%, this year.

There are just five weeks to do this.

The experienced coordinating team, together with 50 local teams of more than 1,000 volunteers nationwide, have been organising the Christmas Shoebox Appeal for 12 years.

Shoeboxes can be dropped off at more than 200 collection points around the countr y before Friday, November 11, for distribution to needy children. Team Hope will then deliver the gift-filled shoe boxes into the hands of a needy child in Africa or Eastern Europe.

Shoeboxes should be wrapped in Christmas paper (with the lid wrapped separately), and it is up to the donor to choose who they’d like to receive the gift – either a boy or a girl – as well as the age group it is suited for.

For further information, as well as all of the information about how to pack the box, suggestions as to suitable items, a sticker to mark the box (for a boy or girl, and the age), and an envelope for the €3 contribution towards transport etc, is available in a leaflet, which you can get from local co-ordinators, by phoning Team Hope at 01 294 0222, or via the website at www.teamhope.ie.

20 October 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 5

HOUSING: SUBMISSION WELCOMED

Tackling pyrite issue SUBMISSIONS by the Pyrite Action Group to the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Environment, Transport, Culture and Gaeltacht have been praised by Labout Deputy Brendan Ryan.

“W hilst the Government has announced the setting up of a working group to tackle the pyrite crisis in recent

Welcoming a dragon: Gallagher in Swords DRAGON’S Den star – and currently ever-soslightly more famous as a forerunner in the imminent Presidential election – Sean Gallagher was given a warm reception when he went on the hustings at Swords Pavilions shopping centre recently.

He canvassed locals at the centre, including Amanda Harte and Alison Kelly, above, as well as meeting local business people and workers, including Martina Cahill, at McCabe’s Pharmacy, as he did his best to fan the flames of north Dublin support for his presidential bid.

COUNCIL: SURVEY DETAILS HEALTH OF PLANTS

1 in 3 street trees ‘need intervention’ Q MIMI MURRAY

swords@gazettegroup.com

ALMOST 30% of street trees in the Swords/Balbriggan area need some form of intervention, the council told the elected members last week.

Over the last two years, all 12,800 street trees in the Swords/Balbriggan area were surveyed.

Fingal County Council found that the majority of the recommended works relate to plant health and safety of the trees.

The council said: “Having identified that these works are required, it is now imperative that a meaningful schedule be devised to address what is an enormous backlog of outstanding tree works.

“Obviously, these works obviously cannot be addressed in one year,

so a system of prioritisation must be employed.”

The council said that, out of the 12,800 street trees, there are 983 that are path heaved; 1,179 are blocking street lights; 1,099 are in poor condition; 1,112 are over 30cms in diameter, and there are 327 that need removal.

“Traditionally, tree works were carried out as part of the winter works programme.

“However, the weeks of extreme weather last winter resulted in a severely curtailed programme.

“A small tree crew was established from existing grass maintenance staff that would begin to tackle the backlog of tree works throughout the year.

“It is intended that the tree crew will continue to work in a systematic manner on an area by

area basis, according to a schedule that will be available to the public and local representatives.

“Finally, if there is any spare capacity, desirable works, such as tree pruning requested due to size, shading, etc, will be tackled, providing they accord with the adopted tree policy,” the council said.

“When the allotted time in a particular area has passed, the tree crew will move to the next area, according to the schedule. The schedule is being devised to first target locations where a significant number of trees are presenting problems.

“Works that have not been completed during a period will remain on the schedule, and will be addressed when the tree crew is next in the area.

“However, it should be noted that it is the larger trees that contribute most to the quality of some of our residential estates.

“To achieve the objective of a population of street trees that is diverse in terms of species and age ranges, a programme of phased replacements over a long period needs to be put in place.

“The operations department would welcome the input of residents of such areas, and from the local representatives, to agree such programme with the affected residents,” said the council.

Labour councillor Tom Kelleher welcomed the report from the council. He said that while it didn’t stop the problem with trees, at least there was a policy for dealing with them.

weeks, it was timely that the group presented the human cost of the issue to members of both the Dail and Seanad.

“I welcomed the opportunity to meet and speak with the group in Leinster House, and I will continue to work with them in the weeks and months ahead on this most serious of issues,” he said.

6 SWORDS GAZETTE 20 October 2011

FINGAL Cross-departmental project launched to cut administrative burdens

Government planning to cut ‘excessive red tape’ Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com

THE Government plans to cut the “excessive red tape” that businesses who are already struggling to stay afloat have to endure, local TD and Minister for Health James Reilly said this week.

Speaking to the Gazette,

the Minister said: “This is all about creating the environment for jobs.

“Businesses across Fingal are struggling to stay afloat, and many local entrepreneurs have told me that excessive red tape leads to a waste of their time and money. “ T h e G ove r n m e n t i s

acutely aware of the burden placed on businesses by excessive red tape and bureaucracy.

“That’s precisely why a cross-departmental project has been launched to cut a d m i n i s t r a t i ve b u r d e n s across seven Departments and Revenue by 25% by the end of next year.

“This should result in savings across the economy of €500 million.

“Work at addressing these issues is already well underway.

“The Department of Enterprise, Jobs and Innovation has successfully cut its administrative burden by 22%.

“The High Level Group on Business Regulation, which includes representatives from business and trade unions, has also been keeping the Government up-to-date on the situation.

“The Government wants to hear from businesses on this issue.

“Minister for Small Busi-

MEETING

In the good books: Lauren wins prize

Water supply works LOCAL residents in Meakstown should not experience the level of disruptions to their water supply ser vice that they were forced to endure during last winter’s cold snap, following significant improvement works.

That’s according to Fingal County Council, that was responding to queries raised by Fianna Fail Cllr Daragh Butler at a recent Council meeting.

Cllr Butler asked the council how confident they are that the action taken last winter will prevent a repeat of the disastrous water supply problems should there be a repeat of the dramatic cold spells again this winter.

Responding to Cllr Butler, a council spokesperson said that before last winter, the Meakstown area was supplied with water from the DCC Sillogue tower through the Lanesborough.

“Following the problems in early December, emergency new watermains were laid in very difficult working conditions by our Direct Labour crew.

This allowed us to supply the Meakstown area from the Mayestown Estate supply which increased water pressure for Meakstown.

“Subsequently, during last summer, the Mayestown supply pressure was further improved by installing a dedicated connection from the gravity watermain off Sillogue Water Tower,” the council said.

ness, John Perry TD, will be convening workshops around the country to hear directly about the situation on the ground, from those who know it best. By working with local SMEs, this Government wants to make Ireland the best place in the world to do business,” he said.

PICTURED receiving her prize

of €1,500 Argos vouchers is Lauren Berkeley, aged 18, from Swords at her local Argos store at The Pavilions Shopping Centre in Swords.

Lauren, who studies at the Institute of Technology, Blanchardstown, was the first winner of the Argos 15th Anniversary Online Monthly Competition. To celebrate 15 years in business in Ireland, every month until January 2012, Argos is giving Irish consumers the opportunity to win €1,500 of Argos vouchers to spend on whatever they wish. To enter, all you have to do is go online to www.argos. ie/15years.

FORUM: BUSINESS EVENT TO FOSTER NEW BUSINESS RELATIONSHIPS

Local companies to take part in major networking event Q MIMI MURRAY

swords@gazettegroup.com

AROUND 50 companies from all over Fingal are expected to take part in Ireland’s largest business-to -business networking event this November.

Co-organised by the Enterprsie Boards, i n cl u d i n g t h e l o c a l Enterprise Board in Fingal, up to 300 Irish businesses are expected to conduct over 3,000 one-to -one business meetings in just one day as part of CorkMeet Dublin 2011.

The event, which will take place on November

10, will provide Cork, Fingal and other Dublinbased businesses with the opportunity to network and explore business opportunities in the Irish marketplace.

In addition to the 50 Cork companies participating, up to 250 Dublin companies will get the chance to meet with other Dublin companies attending, as part of the day-long programme of pre-scheduled, one-toone meetings at Croke Park.

Speaking to the Gazette, Oisin Geoghegan, CEO of the Fingal County Enterprise Board said: “The Cork-

meet Dublin 2011 event is suited to innovative SMEs looking to trade or partner with relevant companies from Dublin or Cork.

“Through initiatives such as these, we can all strengthen enterprise links between companies located in Dublin and Cork.”

Meanwhile, Marion Walshe, event coordinator in Dublin added: “In the current climate, business networking has never been more important for SMEs to identify opportunities and build lasting relationships. What sets Corkmeet Dublin 2011 apart

from other networking events, is that delegates can pre-schedule meetings with the businesses they are most interested in meeting. And with a nominal participation fee of just €60 per delegate, I would strongly encourage SMEs in the Dublin region to attend and meet potential customers.”

CorkmeetDublin 2011 has the potential to generate new business prospects and has been described by last year’s participants as “economic speed dating with a difference,” where local and national businesses get

the opportunity to meet one another, discuss projects, consider partnerships and explore new trading channels.

A s u r ve y o f 2 010 participants found that 77.6% of delegates found the quality of the pre-scheduled one-toone business meetings either good, very good or excellent.

Corkmeet is funded

by Cork County Council, Cork County and City Enterprise Boards, Cork City Council, Dublin County and City Enterprise Boards and is organised in partnership with Cork Chamber and B2B Print.

This year’s event will take place in the Conference Centre at Croke Park on T hursday November 10, 2011.

CorkmeetDublin 2011 is the key business initiative within the Innovation Dublin programme of events which runs from October 17 to November 18, 2011.

Registration for Corkmeet Dublin 2011 is now open and Fingal companies are encouraged to visit www.corkmeet. ie to register and download information about this year’s event.

The subsidised delegate fee is €60 per person.

20 October 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 7

COURTS Man robbed cash in transit van at Swords bank WARDS CROSS: LAND IS NEEDED FOR PROJECT

Roundabout held up over site problem

Craig Kelly pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to two counts of armed robbery and one of unlawful taking of a vehicle

Armed raider attempted to flea to Amsterdam AN armed raider who robbed a cash in transit van and then attempted to flee to Amsterdam has been jailed for five years.

Craig Kelly, (26) of Dowland Road, Walkinstown, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to two counts of armed robbery and one of unlawful taking of a vehicle.

Garda Keith Hally told prosecuting counsel, Mr Fergal Foley BL, that on September 23, 2008, he was called to the scene of a robbery of a cash in transit van which was parked at the Ulster Bank in Swords.

Gda Hally told the court that, as one of the employees disembarked the van with a cashbox containing over €17,000, he heard what he believed to be gun shots and was immediately approached by two men, one of which was carrying a black handgun.

The raider then hit him over the head with the

butt of the gun and took the cashbox before banging on the back of the van demanding any other money on-board.

A motorbike driven by a third man then arrived at the scene and the raiders made their escape.

Following the robbery, gardai were alerted by staff at Dublin Airport that two men were attempting to board a flight to Amsterdam.

Gda Hally told Mr Foley that two men, including Kelly, had paid cash for two flights to Amsterdam at the Aer Lingus customer desk.

Gardai arrested Kelly and the other man and found they both were carrying cash to the sum of €840 and €860 each.

Both men were taken to Santry Garda station and questioned.

Gda Hally told the court that throughout questioning, Kelly exercised his right to silence but agreed with defence counsel, Mr Michael

O’Higgins SC, that he was at all times respectful and compliant with gardai.

Gda Hally told the court that a magazine from the handgun, which was left at the scene of the robbery, contained Kelly’s finger prints and that mobile phone analysis showed that Kelly was in the vicinity of the raid at the time.

Kelly also pleaded guilty to a second robbery which took place on the morning of November 26, 2007, at the Dean Swift Pub on Francis Street in Dublin.

Garda Barry Hayes, of Kevin Street Garda station, said that at approximately 10am on the morning of the robbery, the manager of the pub was approached by two men as he opened the premises.

Both men were carrying baseball bats and demanded he empty the safe. The men managed to escape with a quantity of cigarettes worth €400

and €15 in cash before fleeing.

Gda Hayes told Ms Martina Baxter BL, prosecuting that he and his colleagues were responding to the incident when they saw a car matching the description and gave chase.

The car then drove into the Marybone flat complex and Kelly was observed fleeing from the car. Kelly was arrested and questioned by gardai and again exercised his right to silence.

Defence counsel Mr Eoghan Cole BL, asked Judge Martin Nolan to consider Kelly’s guilty plea and the fact that he suffered from a chronic drug addiction.

Judge Nolan described the offences as very serious and sentenced Kelly to five years for the robbery of the cash in transit van, three years for the robbery of the pub and two for the unlawful taking of a vehicle, all to run concurrently.

CONSTRUCTION on a proposed roundabout at Ward Cross, described as one of the most dangerous junctions in Fingal, cannot start until a third landowner accepts the council’s offer for a site needed to facilitate the roundabout.

According to Fingal County Council, the design of the roundabout has been completed and tenders returned for the necessary upgrade, however, the contract cannot be signed to a contractor without the possession of the site.

In a report to local councillors this week, FCC said, before construction can commence, land had to be acquired by agreement from three landowners.

“T his process has proven to have been protracted.

“The position on October 5 is that agreement has been reached w i t h t wo l a n d ow n -

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‘When this is confirmed we will proceed to sign the contract with the selected tenderer’ --------------------------

ers and we are awaiting confirmation from the third landowner of acceptance of the offer.

“When this is confirmed we will proceed to sign the contract with the selected tenderer.

“The work can commence within two weeks of signing the contract.

The construction period is six months,” the council report said.

The report came following a question by Swords councillor Darragh Butler (FF) asking management for an update with regard to the proposed Ward Cross roundabout.

8 SWORDS GAZETTE 20 October 2011

EVENT Free fashion shows and beauty make-overs as

Fashion fever hits the Pavilions HE Pavilions Centre planned to indulge customers in fashion, beauty and giveaways recently when TV3’s Xpose stylist, Courtney Smith, was at the centre bringing with her free fashion shows and styling advice.

Local ladies were treated to free beauty makeovers from Courtney and her team over the weekend, which proved to be a very popular attraction at the centre.

The Xpose star proved to be very popular with both younger and older ladies who left looking great and with some great new make-up tips.

T

Bridgette Johnston and Danielle Keogh. Pictures: Annie King

Make-up artist Danielle Keogh attends to Bridgette Johnston

Una McDonald and Emma

Make-up artist Eleanor Magan

Emma Suits

20 October 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 9

TV3’s Xpose stylist, Courtney Smith, visits Centre

Annemarie Kirwan and make-up artist Christine Geraghty

Nail artist Karen O’Brien and Lonela Enei

Make up artist Eleanor Magan works on Eleanor Friel

10 SWORDS GAZETTE 20 October 2011

HEALTH Change your approach to fitness

Get yourself empowered with a healthier fitter lifestyle

W

Bernard’s back on track: Adapting to life away from the ring

SPORT PAGE 29

Team members at the gym will help you with guidelines to healthier eating habits

Q CORMAC CURTIS

OVER the years, I have been a member of no less than eight fitness clubs or gyms.

Like everyone else, I get to a point where I know my diet and lifestyle choices are poor at best, and I’m taking my health for granted.

So, I meet a trainer, get assessed, and go headlong into a training regime that, I must admit, I really enjoy for a month or so.

It’s immensely satisfying to see those early signs of changes to the body; when your muscle tone develops, your clothes begin to loosen up and your energy levels begin to take off in a big way.

But, it’s at this point, I begin to plateau. My previously boundless enthusiasm seems to wane, and I become completely disheartened. It doesn’t make any sense.

I reach the point where I can do all the exercises the trainer taught me more easily than ever, but my body has stopped its transformation towards the Adonis-like physique that was promised in the brochure.

I was pleasantly surprised over the summer when I tried a programme at energie fitness in Swords called Empower.

What I liked about the Empower programme is that it didn’t involve a trainer attempting to psyche me up to become a full-time fitness freak.

Instead, you are given a six-week plan that involves the key elements to a healthier and

fitter lifestyle.

By t a l k i n g a b o u t general guidelines to healthier eating habits with one of the team members at the gym, it is made clear that a fullon restrictive diet is neither the best or healthiest way to lose weight.

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

‘Instead of just following the same old routine week in, week out, I was taught how to develop my routine to get the most out of it. The encouragement from a variety of trainers at energie was invaluable’ --------------------------

By answering some simple questions, and keeping an accurate food diary for a week, I was encouraged to change my habits and really get the best out of a fitness plan, and, ultimately, it gave me the energy I needed to start reaching my goals.

T here’s no getting around the fact that the first workout is always a tough one - and the energie instructor didn’t hold back.

The key to the workouts here is intensity.

It was explained to me that by varying the types of exercise, and concentrating on the intensity of them, I would get the

best results, and in a fraction of the time I traditionally spent at the gym.

Instead of just following the same old routine week in, week out, I was taught how to develop my routine to get the most out of it.

The encouragement from a variety of trainers at energie was invaluable.

At each visit during the empower programme, you discuss how you are getting with each aspect of your routine, and you are given sound, practical advice on how to move forward.

Once you get into the swing of things, and when you are ready to move on, you get another assessment before bringing your training up a gear.

There is also what they call the Workout Mindset seminar.

This element of the programme is about engaging your mind by increasing your awareness of attitudes and behaviours and ensuring that you have a positive frame of mind that will help you achieve the results you are after.

If this sounds like nonsense to you, just consider that some the greatest athletes in the world rely heavily on mental and psycho logical training just as much as their physical workouts.

All in all, the Empower programme is something that changed my approach to fitness, and it continues to provide me with the tools I need to reach my fitness goals.

Visit www.energiefitness.ie for full details.

20 October 2011 GAZETTE 11

FESTIVE Tesco launches a choice selection of treats

Q STAFF REPORTER

THIS Christmas Tesco have everything on hand to take the hassle out of your family Christmas dinner or festive party celebrations, with an extensive range of food and drink in-store to suit every taste, and pocket.

From festive fizz and canapes, to traditional Christmas favourites and meal accompaniments, Tesco has something to make this Christmas one to remember.

Party Favourites/ Sophisticated Starters

No festive party is complete without the addition of some chic canapes to set the tone for the evening. Why not add a touch of class with some Tesco Finest canapes… the taste without the luxury price tag!

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

‘From festive fizz and canapes, to traditional Christmas favourites’

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joint with honey and wholegrain mustard. For those looking for a different choice for the dinner table this Christmas, try Tesco’s Finest* Rib Roast Beef with Mixed Peppercorn Crumb or the Tesco Finest* Leg of Lamb.

Every accompaniment to finish off Christmas dinner from Finest* Potatoes and Brussel Sprouts to Tesco’s Carrot and Parsnip Selection and Carrots all of which are Irish grown, are available this year.

Christmas Dinner

The main event of the day is sure to be a hassle-free show-stopper with the selection of traditional meats and alternatives on sale this year. Traditionalists will love the selection of fresh Irish turkeys and turkey crowns, which will be in stores from December. Look out for some real dinner table treats, such as the Tesco Finest Bronze Turkey and the Tesco Fresh Turkey Joint with Orange and Cranberry Stuffing Wrapped in Parma Ham from Grove Farm in Monaghan.

Accompany the turkey with a choice of ham joints from Hilton Foods, Drogheda, such as smoked ham on the bone, dry cured loin ham joint with brown sugar, pear and bay leaf or dry cured premium ham

Delicious Desserts

There is also an extensive range of range of puddings, cakes and desserts, perfect for families and friends. For the traditional ending to Christmas dinner, try Tesco’s Finest* Christmas Pudding with Courvosier VS Cognac (908g) or Tesco Finest*’s Christmas Pudding (454g). For a dessert with a light European flavour, finish with Tesco Finest* Pannetone Pudding (227g).

T h e e ve r- p o p u l a r mince pies are another family favourite, treat everyone with Tesco Finest* Deep Filled Mince Pies with Courvosier VS Cognac or Tesco Finest* 12 Mini Mince Pies with Courvosier VS Cognac, for a little bit of what you fancy!

Post Dinner treats

For those who still have room left after such an amazing feast, their is also an array of post-dinner delights to enjoy. Why not finish Christmas dinner with a choice of exquisite Irish farmhouse cheeses from suppliers across the country, including Cashel Irish Cheese Selection, the Old Irish Creamery, Carrigaline Farmhouse Cheese Gift Box selection, Ardsallagh Cranberry Roulade, Horgan’s Value Selection or Horgan’s Executive Selection. Tesco’s Finest* Irish Farmhouse Cheese Selection, will also impress family and friends.

Tesco launched their Christmas range of foods and fashion last week, Heather is pictured at the event, wearing a dress from the autumn/winter fashion range Festive Tipples

No Christmas would be complete without a touch of fizz, and, this year, no matter what your budget, there is something to suit all pockets.

Tesco Finest* Premier Cru Champagne NV 75cl is the perfect addition to any party.

For those looking for a

nice wine to accompany Christmas dinner, the Tesco Finest* Duorois, a medium-bodied red would go well with meat main dishes such as turkey and beef.

There is also Tesco Finest* Picpoul de Pinet, a crisp French white from the Languedoc which partners fish start-

ers perfectly.

So, whether you are looking for a stress free Christmas dinner with all the trimmings or a Christmas Party with all the festive accompaniments get down to your local Tesco store for an exciting range of treats, mains, desserts and nibbles for all the family.

Giving the X3 the M Factor: This is a powerful, 3.0 litre M Sport performance version of the machine, with all the style, safety and luxury features thrown in

W

Make your Christmas a tasty and stylish one

MOTORING PAGE 19

12 GAZETTE 20 October 2011

SPORT: STAR PLAYER, ONLINE GAME

GASTRONOMY Food experiences in Ireland

Time to give us predictions MIMI MURRAY news@gazettegroup.com

This is the eighth consecutive year that Heineken, the world’s most international beer brand, has sponsored the prestigious UCL. Walter Drenth, marketing director at Heineken Ireland, said: “Star Player will really change the way in which Irish football fans interact with the UEFA Champions League; it has created a more social, ‘play and watch’ experience during matches. The appetite for UCL in Ireland continues to be huge and, with the introduction of Star Player, Heineken brings fans another truly premium, innovative experience.”

The Heineken Star Player is available to play on Heineken.ie.

Celebrity Maitre‘D, John Healy at Ivan’s Oyster Bar and Grill in Howth

gazette

photos

.com

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HEINEKEN Star Player is back for another round of matches. Star Player is a world-first innovation online game that lets fans interact with realtime football matches on Heineken.ie while they watch UEFA Champions League matches on television.

Star Player is transforming how fans watch the UEFA Champions League by allowing them to anticipate events unfolding on the pitch.

By making second-bysecond predictions in realtime, UEFA Champions League fans build points by predicting goals, corner kicks and

free kicks.

Using unique timedependent technology, with every correct forecast, fans gain points.

Through the Interactive Champions League, fans can also compete and share Star player results with their friends via Facebook and with other players around the world.

Irish fans will have a weekly chance to win a VIP trip to a UEFA Champions League match by topping the Star Player Irish league table.

Soccer fans can log on to Heineken.ie and register for their chance to win.

Each week the runnerup in the Star Player Irish league table will win a Heineken Fusball table.

Seen yourself in the Gazette?

All our galleries are now online for you to buy

Buy photos online now!

From only

€6.99

The top site for foodies STAFF REPORTER news@gazettegroup.com

CELEBRITY Maitre‘D, John Healy was at Ivan’s Oyster Bar and Grill in Howth last week to demonstrate that there is no need to “make a meal” out of sourcing the best quality food experiences in Ireland, simply log onto www.discoverireland.ie/food.

The website is a virtual haven for foodies and is a one-stop-shop for information on food festivals, food trails, cookery schools, farmer’s markets, food attractions, eating out and even Foodie TV. John is very familiar with demanding critics, having worked front of house in the food industry for the last 20 years, and is happy to give the website its own five-star rating! Commenting about what Ireland has to offer foodies throughout the country, John said:

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

‘It’s a virtual haven for foodies and is a one-stop-shop for information’ --------------------------

“The Irish Food industry is currently thriving and it appears that the country’s palette has collectively woken up to the amazing range of foodie experiences available to both connoisseurs and novices alike. Ireland can compare very favourably with our European neighbours and anyone can try their hand at an afternoon in a cookery schools, uncover some hidden gems on a tasty food trail or meet the makers of some of the top artisan food. I want to encourage people to get out there and discover exactly what Ireland has to offer!”

An example of some of the gastronomic high-

lights that are coming up this autumn include Savour Kilkenny Food Festival, which takes place over the October Bank Holiday Weekend and features a bustling open-air market against the spectacular backdrop of Kilkenny Castle; Slow Foods Ireland’s Wild & Slow Festival will take place in a winter fest style market at Macreddin Village, Co. Wicklow on November 19-20, and the Listowel Food Fair, which runs from the November 3-6 and showcases everything from cheese making to baking and beer tasting to beekeeping.

If you would like to get some inspirational ideas on eating out, or find out where to go for the best markets to stock up on some home-made artisan goodies, or if you are simply interested in experiencing some of Ireland’s fantastic food festivals and events, check out www.discoverireland.ie/ food

20 October 2011 GAZETTE 13

GazetteNUTRITION NUTRITION Foods that will help you win!

LEILA JOHARI

ON MONDAY, October 31, the Dublin City Marathon will take place. For those of you taking part this is the day that you have been working towards for weeks, even months, so the last thing you want to do is to miss out on that gold medal due to poor nutrition! In addition to physical training you need a nutritional plan to ensure you are meeting your body’s increased nutrient requirements to optimise your performance in competition.

Needs of runners

Carbohydrates are the most important nutrient.

Some marathon runners practise “carbohydrate loading”, an approach that maximises stores of glycogen, which is the first fuel to be used during intense exercise.

To achieve this, you limit your intake of carbohydrates for a couple of weeks before the event.

The initial reduction in carbohydrates makes the body extremely sensitive to them when they enter the body, allowing glycogen stores to be replenished.

When competing for over 90 minutes normal glycogen stores will not be enough to maintain exercise so the goal of carbohydrate loading is to superload muscles with glycogen to delay fatigue and enable you to exercise for longer.

It is best to eat a variety of food from each of the four major food groups each day so that you get a

good supply of the nutrients a marathon runner needs. These nutrients include carbohydrate, protein, fat, vitamin B complex, vitamin C, vitamin E, iron, calcium and zinc.

drinks have similar benefits. Marathon runners should choose isotonic sports drinks as these quickly replace fluids lost by sweating and supply carbohydrates. Examples include Lucozade Sport.

Before the event

After the event

Exercising on a full stomach is not ideal. Food takes about 1-4 hours to fully digest, depending on how much you have eaten.

On the day of the event it is best to eat a light breakfast, such as a cereal or toast and fruit juice. Drink water in small amounts after breakfast at regular intervals so that you start the race fully hydrated.

You may also consider a liquid meal if you find it hard to eat solid meals before a competition as they are quickly emptied from the stomach. Fibre should be avoided precompetition as they can result in stomach upsets.

Choose lower-fibre foods such as cornflakes, white bread and soft fruits with no skin.

Following the event, it is vital to ensure fast recovery. It is essential to replace lost fluids and replace sodium losses to ensure maximum fluid retention. You need to drink 1.5 times the amount of body weight you have lost from sweat and urination. Even if you are celebrating try to avoid drinks containing caffeine and alcohol after competing!

A large, carbohydrate meal should be eaten within two hours of the finish. It should consist of high GI foods. Bananas and dried fruit are good immediately following a marathon. A main meal might consist of bread, pasta, potatoes and rice.

It is also an opportunity for you to enjoy foods that you would usually avoid such cakes and sweets. Don’t go too crazy though!

Combining protein and carbohydrate will enhance your recovery.

Athletes who refuel with carbohydrate and protein have 100% greater muscle glycogen stores than those who ate only carbohydrates so try to include a good source of protein such as chicken or eggs.

Remember that your nutritional plan is part of your first-place formula and will help ensure you bring home the gold!

Sheena Crotty, from Lucan, celebrates completing the Lifestyle Sports - adidas Dublin Marathon 2010

During the event

During the marathon you must prevent dehydration, prevent depletion of glycogen/energy stores, maintain blood glucose levels and electrolyte balance. Examples of suitable foods that can be consumed during the event include bananas and sports bars. Sports bars boost carbohydrate levels, help improve endurance levels, help maintain blood sugar levels and provide a sustained release of energy. Sports

14 GAZETTE 20 October 2011

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: WHETHER CATS, BATS OR RATS, SOME PEOPLE COLLECT TOO MANY ANIMALS

Horror animal hoarding signs to look out for Although it’s commonplace for many animal lovers to care for two or more pets, some people can accumulate far too many animals to properly tend to their needs, unintentionally creating a menagerie of ill, diseased and distressed creatures

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

.com

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gazette

THE other night, whilst trawling through T V channels, I came across a programme dealing with compulsive hoarding.

Now, it’s my understanding that “hoarding” is the acquisition of possessions – which a person fails to use or discard – and which are in excess of what would be deemed “normal” amounts.

It‘s a serious, debilitating disorder for the sufferer. However, when the hoarding compulsion involves animals, then it‘s a very real concern – the effects of which are a mental health, animal health and public safety issue.

At the DSPCA, we investigate and deal with incidents of animal hoarding.

Here are just some of the markers that would give us cause for concern – more than the usual number of companion pets; an inability to provide even the minimum standards of nutrition, shelter, veterinary care and sanitary conditions for the animals, and a denial of this inability, and the impact that it has on the animals and the home environment for both them and the human occupants of the home.

So, why hoard animals?

From what I’ve studied, some research points toward a number of obsessive-compulsive disorders.

Newer studies lead toward attachment disorders, in conjunction with personality disor-

ders, paranoia, delusional thinking, depression and other mental illnesses.

For example, some animal hoarders began collecting following a traumatic loss or event; then again, others see themselves as “rescuers” Very often, hoarders appear to be intelligent people, believing they’re helping animals. Many even possess the ability to garner sympathy, and can even deceive others into thinking their situation is under control.

They become ignorant to the fact they’re not helping the animals, but are inflicting extreme suffering upon them.

How do you spot a hoarder?

Animal hoarders range in age and gender. The elderly tend to be more at risk, and this is possibly due to their own deteriorating health, and isolation either from family, community or social groups.

One common denominator between them is the lack of understanding of the pain and suffering they are inflicting upon the animals.

They have many animals, and may not even know the total number in their care.

Their homes are in a state of deterioration, (broken furniture, in need of repair, lots of clutter).

A strong smell of ammonia is present, and floors may be covered in animal poo, urine, vomit, etc.

Animals in their care are emaciated, poorly

groomed, and not properly socialised.

Vermin are present.

The person is isolated and has neglected themselves.

Despite the signs of distress, the individual insists all is well, and the animals are well cared for.

Do hoarders ever pass themselves off as rescue shelters?

Unfortunately, sometimes they can set themselves up as “rescue” facilities, and may appear to be sensible individuals.

They convey their love for those animals that have special needs. Lately, the internet has become a tool for such solicitation.

How do you know if it’s a hoarder or a rescue shelter?

The hoarder is unwilling to allow visitors to see the location where animals are kept. (The rescue shelter will have no such problem.)

The hoarder will not disclose the number of animals in its care. (The rescue shelter will be able to provide facts and sta-

tistics.)

Little or no effort is made by the hoarder to adopt animals out. (Rescue shelters actively seek to re-home animals in their care.)

Legitimate rescue shelters are viewed as “the enemy” by hoarders.

Animals may be picked up or handed over at a remote location, such as at a car park, field or street corner, rather than at the hoarder’s facilities. The legitimate rescue shelter will have a headquarters.

Please bear in mind that not everyone who has multiple animals is a hoarder.

An individual may have many animals, have them spayed/neutered, and provide them with regular veterinary care, a correct diet, proper living conditions and a sanitary environment. Such a person would not be considered a hoarder.

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

All these cats – and many more – were found swarming one small apartment in an extreme hoarding case

20 October 2011 GAZETTE 15

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY

Edited by Dawn Love

Transform your life, transform you hair JOHN Frieda is giving 15 Irish women the chance to commemorate a transformation in their life.

On November 8, top stylist and Dublin native, Jake Davis, will travel to Dublin to host the John Frieda Transformation Day. From the 15 finalists, there will be one overall winner, who will travel to the John Frieda Salon in London for the ultimate hair transformation.

Friends and family of the finalists will have a chance to vote on their makeovers, as the campaign will roll out on John Frieda Ireland facebook page from December until February 2012.

Facebook votes will go towards the overall winner’s selection by a panel of judges from John Frieda and selected beauty media.

John Frieda Transformation is a campaign to celebrate the achievements of women’s lives – how they have transformed the way they live, work or love. To enter women have to send the story of their life trans-

formation to John Frieda.

From these stories, 15 finalists will be selected to attend the Dublin Transformation Day. The closing date for sending transformation stories to transformation@johnfrieda.ie is Wednesday, October 26, 2011. Stories must be based on one of the following three categories: 1) Business and Work Transformations Stories showing examples of entrepreneurial business ideas or opportunities seized to overcome financial difficulty or job loss, retraining or returning to study to transform your career.

2) Health Transformations Stories based on triumphs over personal ill health or caring for someone with ill health.

3) Life Transformations Stories based on a life event – from matters of the heart, helping a charity, lifestyle changes, inspirational encounters with groups or individuals – that have turned your life around for the better .

Transformation stories should be no longer than 300 words, and should include a recent portrait (head and shoulders only) emailable picture in jpeg format. Entrants must be available to attend the John Frieda Transformation Day on Tuesday, November 8, 2011, in Dublin.

80th Anniversary of Sudocrem It’s one of Ireland’s bestloved products, and this year, Sudocrem will celebrate its 80th anniversary.

Developed as an antiseptic healing cream, it has been the first choice for generations of mums and healthcare professionals in its native Ireland and internationally since its formulation in 1931.

Dublin pharmacist Thomas Smith’s Sudocrem fast became popular with Irish midwives and mothers for treating

nappy rash, becoming the market leader for soothing, healing and protecting the skin of babies’ sensitive bottoms. Clinically proven in this category, Sudocrem leads the market in over 30 countries all over the world.

Sweetly scented with lavender, with a soft texture, the nostalgia inducing white cream has a water-repellent base which forms a protective barrier.

Hypoallergenic lanolin provides its emollient effect and Peru Balsam its healing properties.

And for 80 years, Thomas Smith’s original formulation has remained unchanged.

Sudocrem is available from independent pharmacies, major pharmacy chains, supermarkets and selected children’s department stores nationwide.

John Frieda is giving 15 Irish women the chance to commemorate a transformation in their life

A comforted complexion THE changing seasons can play havoc with your complexion.

Loved by celebrities, VOYA’s Maskerade is an intensely moisturising face mask with the hydrating power of hand harvested seaweed, Maskerade will rescue and replenish skin.

Prepare your skin for winter by treating it to a hydrating and antioxidant-rich Maskerade face mask. Take 10 minutes to sit back and relax while VOYA’s Maskerade Mask sooths and repairs your skin. Price: €35.00 VOYA products can be purchased online at www.voya.ie. For stockist information, call VOYA on 071 9168956 & sales@ voya.ie.

16 GAZETTE 20 October 2011

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC FastTunes High-flying Noel back on unclipped wings RECORD REVIEW: THE TALENT BEHIND OASIS RETURNS

TO THE abject horror of many, news emerges that the divisive figure of Skrillex is to work with the remaining members of The Doors to produce a new track as part of RE:Generation, a new movie project that teams up unexpected artists to create fresh collaborations. Ray Manzarek, John Densmore and Robbie Kreiger were teamed with the dubstep producer on a new track that is “hot as hell”, according to Manzarek. Other collaborations include rappers Nas and DJ Premier with the Berlklee College of Music Orchestra and the Crystal Method with Martha Reeves.

Rock legend and officially the nicest bloke in the universe, Dave Grohl, added to his hero status last week when he stepped in to drum for Cage The Elephant when their regular drummer, Jared Champion, fell sick during the Foo Fighters’ US tour. Grohl approached Elephant’s management when he heard Champion had been admitted for surgery after suffering a burst appendix.

A bullet dodged or opportunity missed?

Noel Gallagher last week revealed that he was approached, more than once, by Simon Cowell to take a place on the UK judging panel of this season’s X Factor. Noel turned the offer down, and the place was taken by Take That’s Gary Barlow. How Noel would have fared is undertain, but the man who once called Coldplay “music for bedwetters” would surely be well able to skewer the raging egos of some of this year’s contestants.

Laughing Leonard Cohen, the buddhist monk of rock and roll, is to release a new record in 2012. He is currently in the studio with son, Adam, on a new body of work, which would be his first new set of songs since 2007’s Dear Heather. Earlier this year, Leonard Cohen was awarded Spain’s esteemed Prince Of Asturias Award for literature, joining previous winners of the prestigious prize such as the playwright Arthur Miller and naturalist Sir David Attenborough.

Leonard Cohen: Make em laugh...

Q ROB HEIGH

JUST after the fruit and guitars started flying in Paris, music lovers everywhere breathed a sigh of relief when Noel Gallagher called it a day on his career in Oasis.

This act of humanitarian euthanasia brought to an end what had been a horrible period for all involved, most of all the fans who had watched as the fetid corpse of a formerly legendary band lumbered around the world for a decade.

They had, at last, been put all of us out of their misery.

Having seen Oasis at their peak at Earl’s Cour t in London in 1995, everything that came after was a massive disappointment.

Had they imploded then, that would have been a fitting end and would have cemented them as one of the best bands of a generation.

Unfortunately, they kept going on a cycle of ever-diminishing returns, dialling in facsimilies of former glories, ending with a fiasco at Slane, where the effort of even being

there at all seemed too much, and then the final nail in the coffin came at Rock En Seine in 2009.

Liam insisted on keeping the horror show on the road, inflicting the Sixties’ zombie of Beady Eye on a public who ought to have known better, and now, after shying away from the limelight, Noel has returned to the fray with his first outing on record as Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds.

The question being... is it any good?

I’m pleased to report that being out of the knuckle-dragging shadow of Oasis’ legacy has loosened Noel up somewhat, and the record features easily the best set of songs he has been responsible for in many, many years.

Albeit featuring several songs written, and even two previously recorded but not released, for Oasis, the record is a stroll through the styles that have made Gallagher a folk hero throughout his career. There is the classic Britpop sensibilities of the opener, Every-

Competition time: Win tickets to see Brendan Grace Comedian Brendan Grace is bringing his comedy stylings to the Clarion Hotel Liffey Valley, and we have four pairs of tickets to give away.

“The greatest family comedian of our generation” presents a show to celebrate 39 years in the business.

To win one of the sets of tickets, simply answer the following question: What was the name of the drum and bass-loving priest Brendan played in Father Ted? Send your answer to competition@ gazettegroup.com, with the subject line “Grace”, before Friday, October 28.

Noel Gallgher back with familiar but welcome set of songs

body’s On The Run, the understated guitar of If I Had A Gun, and, for me the best moment on the record, the Chemical Brothers-esque What A Life, that recalls his contribution to the Chemicals’ classic album, Surrender, the perennial, Let Forever Be. Being Noel Gallagher, the record is wholly familiar, like a pair of old slippers, but so comfortably fresh that

the hints of new directions make you salivating to hear more from the young codger.

Although even that will not be far off, as early next year will see the release of an album with Amorphous Androgynous, the techno-ambient pioneers formerly known as the Future Sound Of London - expect a psychf lavoured wig-out of some epic proportions.

For the moment, however, just settle back and enjoy one of the best songwriters of the past 20 years enjoying the freedom to be himself.

You are getting exactly what it says on the tin - Noel and a set of songs that aim high and fly on their classic melodies and arrangements — but rather this tin than the tin-eared tedium of the other Gallagher’s gallumphers.

20 October 2011 GAZETTE 17

THEATRE A hilarious take on the top talk show host

Springer is not for the faint-hearted Q LAURA WEBB

THE TV show is known for its controversial guests and funny antics, so what better dialogue to get inspiration for a hilarious and contentious opera than the Jerry Springer show and it’s coming to Dublin with an all-Irish cast.

He was one of the most talked about talk show hosts of this generation and, when it was transformed into an opera, that buzz was reignited when Jerry Springer the Opera took London’s West End by storm with over 600 performances.

Not for the faint-hearted, the show has everything you would expect from the show itself, including men in diapers, tap-dancing Klu Klux Klan members, and all in

front of a wild audience.

The Irish production of Jerry Springer the Opera is the first all-Irish production and cast at the Grand Canal Theatre.

Dubliner Derek Collins, who plays a Klu Klux Klan member in the first act and Adam (Adam and Eve) in the second act, says the show is brilliantly funny. “One of my characters is a redneck hillbilly and I will have a big, bushy beard by then.

I haven’t shaved in about six weeks,” he laughed.

Shocking

“It will be great fun.

He is not a very nice character, but he gets his just desserts – it has all of the shocking aspects of the show, and it really isn’t for the soft-hearted.

It is recommended for mature audiences only,

there is extremely coarse language. But if we don’t offend you, we are doing something wrong. It is the funniest show I have ever been involved in,” Derek said.

“When I heard about the show, I just wanted to get in there and get an audition. There are so many reasons why you would want to do it – it’s Jerry Springer,” he joked.

“I worked with John Donnelly before. He is a landmark director in Ireland – this is the first 100% Irish show that is going to be in the Grand Canal Theatre, which is hard to believe.

“It is very exciting, it’s my first opera and it’s on at the Grand Canal Theatre. It’s one hell of a show. We are doing the show on a big scale. We have got an epic sound,

two musical directors, Dermot O’Callaghan and Kevin Walsh. The music is incredible.”

Before the Jerry Springer Show, Derek was in Michael Collins the Musical, and nd has made variious appearancess on stage over hiss acting and sing-ing career. He iss delighted to be part of the show among cast members like Simon Delaney, playing Jerr y Springer, and Eoin Canno.

The cast also includes Joe Walsh Walsh, Emma Wigglesworth, Anthony Blake, Helene Hutchinson, Jean Wallace and a chorus of over 60 singers and dancers.

“Apart from Simon, the

The Irish production of Jerry Springer the Opera is the Th firs first all- Irish production and cast at the Grand Canal The Theatre which includes Dubliner Derek Collins (left)

majority of the leads are split roles, we all have at least two roles to play. There is an incredibly diverse amount of material there for the audience,” he said.

The opening night of T Jerry Springer the Opera Jerr takes place Halloween tak night, October 31 and audiences can come in fancy dress. It runs from October 31 until November 5, with tickets priced €17.50, which can be

purchased through Ticketmaster. Log onto www. grandcanaltheatre.ie for further information. This show is recommended for mature audiences due to extremely coarse language and adult situations.

18 GAZETTE 20 October 2011

20 October 2011 GAZETTE 19

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs

FAMILIES CAN PARK AND CHARGE AT CLERYS:

Putting the M in X3 MICHAEL MORONEY took the powerful 3.0-litre M Sport Sport version version 3.0 litre M of the BMW X3 for a run in recent weeks – the exhilaration was palpable behind the wheel. Simply put, this is a performance machine with all of the safety and luxury features thrown in S THE extra power and money really worth it for the 3.0-litre M Sport version of the BMW X3, I asked myself after just one day behind the wheel of the powerful SUV? By the end of a few days driving the battle between my heart and my head remained unresolved. I enjoyed the drive, loved the power but would I feel that strongly to spend the extra money that this car commands?

The M Sport styling from BMW is obviously distinctive.

To a motorhead everything about this X3 is special, from the stronger, more powerful, look to the bigger wheels and tyres. The styling on its own might have been strong enough to convince

I

SPECS: BMW X3 M SPORT Top speed: 230 km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 6.2 secs Economy: 16.6km/litre (6.0l/100km) CO2 emissions: 159g/km Road Tax Band: D (€447) Price: €61,480

me but some of my passengers were not as much in awe. I was impressed with the engine sound and performance; they looked at the creature fittings, and the road comfort, and were not as impressed.

This X3 M Sport BMW is very powerful with its six cylin-

der 3.0-litre twin turbo-charged diesel engine under the bonnet.

The engine has massive power at 258bhp to propel the car to 100km/hr in just six seconds.

The diesel power torque is even more impressive at over 550Nm and that’s where the 6.2 seconds for a 0 to 100km/hr pace comes from.

I wondered was there too much power on tap; there is limited application for such power, apart from over-taking acceleration at which I have to say, it excelled. But you’ll feel it when you get the chance to put the acceleration to the best.

This is sports car performance in SUV clothing. It remains solid through the acceleration so you get the feeling of balance

in a modest size SUV that oozes with power and torque.

This extra power means poorer economy, although relative to some of the bigger 4x4s the X3 3.0 M Sport figure is acceptable.

The official economy figure is 16.6 km/litre (6.0l/100km or 47mpg) and that’s about 15% less economical than the entrylevel 2.0-litre version of the X3, which is rated with about 15% slower acceleration.

In this sense the powerto-economy curve appears a straight line. Rising power and acceleration also means rising fuel usage. My test drive was a little less impressive in terms of economy as I returned an average figure of about 12km/ litre (8.5l/100km) on the car’s

computer.

That was about 25% lower than the rated figure and I didn’t expect much more as I was driving across a range of road conditions. It was more noticeable as I refilled the 67-litre capacity tank and I soon realised that that 900km range on a full tank was going to be outside my reach.

M Sport X3 was only marginally less economical than the entry-model, 2.0-litre turbodiesel version. The economy is helped by a stop/start system and brake energy regeneration. So, even with its massive power and impressive acceleration, and the €145 difference in annual road tax, it won’t cost you a whole more to run!

Drivers believe in dog restraints MORE than 60% of drivers believe it should be compulsory to restrain dogs in cars when driving. That’s the result of a new British poll on an issue that supports passenger and dog safety in cars.

The poll was carried out by GEM Motoring Assist to find out driver’s views on dogs wearing seat belts/harnesses in cars, after the issue became a hot topic over the summer. Ex -Eastenders actor Todd Carty appeared on TV campaign-

ing for a new law to be introduced to make dog seatbelts compulsory after he had a near tragic accident with his Labrador.

While it has been proven that unnecessary accidents are caused by unrestrained animals in the car, the consequences in a crash can be severe. If a motorist is travelling at just 50km/hr (30mph), in the case of impact, an unrestrained average sized dog weighing approximately 25kg (50lbs) would be projected

forward with a force equal to a baby elephant.

The potential danger to both pets and passengers from driving with an unrestrained animal should not to be ignored and the company urges drivers to be aware of the consequences.

Dog harnesses are available for dogs of all sizes. It is wise to consider the safety of the dog as well as the rest of the family when it comes to car safety.

Consider getting a dog harness to keep your dog safe during transport

ESB ecars now provides electric car charge points in Q-Park Clerys multistorey car park, in the heart of Dublin city centre. This will enable motorists to charge their car while they are shopping, dining or carrying out business in the city centre.

The charge points are part of the ESB charging infrastructure network,which is being rolled out in retail parks, service stations as well as on-street and off-street car parks and in the homes of electric car motorists.

Drivers can pre-book a designated electric car parking space online www.q-park.ie or call 01 8788957.

20 GAZETTE 20 October 2011

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY LUCAN: NEW SHOWHOUSE ADDED TO RANGE OF HOMES ON OFFER

Offers galore at Adamstown Park

The Solace dining set from Belleek Living

CLASSIC HOMEWARES: FOR THE CHRISTMAS LIST

Belleek Living add style to interior design BELLEEK Living’s range of classy homewares has something for everyone, and here we have picked some of the top items from their range that might just appear on a Christmas list or two...

Belleek’s Solace tableware is a distinctive square tableware design that will add a touch of style to any dining table.

The 12-piece set includes 4 bowls, 4 dinner plates and 4 side plates and retails for €140.

Designed to complement the Solace tableware is a 44-piece Solace cutlery set, for €99, comprising of six table forks, table knives, soup spoons, dessert forks, dessert knives, dessert spoons, teaspoons and two serving spoons Lighting has proven a highly popular recent addition to the Belleek Living Homeware and Christmas 2011 sees the introduction of a number of new lamp designs, including the Rose lamp and shade, which features a floral relief design on the ceramic base for €70, and the Eclipse lamp and shade for €75, which features a lined design which emerges from the bottom of the base.

At 49 centimetres high, this lamp will create an impact in a living room or hallway.

There is also the Elegance Frame and Lines Champagne Flutes gift set, a combination of an 8 x 10 Silver Elegance photo frame and a pair of Lines Champagne flutes for €140, The perfect gift for a special couple at Christmas The Belleek Living range is available from leading giftware and tableware retailers. For futher information, visit www.belleek.ie.

CASTLETHORN Homes have revealed their latest showhouse, a four-bedroom home at the Adamstown Park development in Lucan for the bargain price of £215,000.

The development is a small cul-de-sac of just 16 four-bed houses, which are generously sized at over 1,550 sq ft and extend over three floors.

To the front a featured wrought-iron gate leads through a landscaped front garden to an attractive hall door. The ground floor comprises a wellappointed kitchen with all appliances included, and a family room.

The first floor is dominated by a spacious sit-

ting room with featured bay window.

This floor also contains the main bedroom and en suite.

The upper floor contains three further bedrooms and a large family bathroom.

To the rear is a private garden and parking spaces.

Competitively priced, the developers have also made buying easy by permitting no deposit to be paid until purchasers actually move in; very handy if you are currently renting, saving, or have a smaller house to sell.

In addition, Castlethorn has reduced the prices of its remaining homes in Adamstown

One of the attractive kitchens at Adamstown Park

Castle and Adamstown Square. You can now buy a two-bedroom apartment from €135,000, a three-bedroom duplex home from €165,000, or a three-bedroom ground level duplex from

£185,000.

All homes are designed to comply with Sustainable Energy Ireland’s House of Tomorrow in terms of their energy efficiency ratios.

Viewing times are

daily from 10am to 5pm, and weekends from 3 to 5pm, and viewings can be arranged by contacting Martina Dillon at mdillon@leahyproperty. ie or by telephone on 01 601 1811.

CARRICKMINES: RANGE OF PROPERTIES FOR SALE IN DEVELOPMENT

All Manor of homes for sale in Carrick

DOUGLAS Newman Good are bringing to the market a selection of two-bedroom apartments, three-bedroom duplexes and four-bedroom townhouses in Carrickmines Manor, on Glenamuck Road.

T he proper ties on offer are in a highly sought after area that benefits from a multitude of amenities and facilities, sporting and leisure pursuits, numerous shopping centres and reknowned primary and secondary schools, as well as transpor t links to the city and beyond.

T he proper ties on offer are at a range of price points, from €160,000 for the twobedroom apartments, from €257,500 for the three-bedroom duplexes and from €295,000 for the four-bedroom

townhouses.

All of the units are built to a high standard and have a number of common features. The apartments have highgloss ivor y kitchens and there are cherrywood kitchens fitted in the duplexes, while both apartments and duplexes have black granite worktops and integrated appliances.

Fittings The townhouses feature fitted high-gloss units combined with frosted glass units, complemented by stylish brushed chrome handles and polished stone worktops.

The bathrooms and en suites are all fitted with stylish white sanitary ware, with heated towel rails and extensive floor and wall tiling.

Heating in the properties range from energy-efficient electric storage heating in apartments, to natural gas-fired central heating in the houses and

duplexes.

There is recessed lighting in the kitchens, bathrooms and ensuites, while the properties also come with a Premier Structural

Guarantee or Global Home Warranties.

For more information, or to arrange a viewing, contact Gina Kennedy of Douglas Newman Good on 01 4912600.

A range of apartments, duplexes and townhouses are being brought to the market by Douglas Newman Good at Carrickmines Manor

20 October 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Aidan Mahon, Just Classes creator

Getting fit, one class at a time AIDAN Mahon is from a very old Malahide family, which had a newsagent, Maurice Mahons, in Malahide for many years.

His grandmother even sold newspapers there at the turn of the century. The family closed Maurice Mahons in 2004. It was the same year that Aidan started doing personnel training in a studio in his home.

Aidan recently brought a revolutionary diet system, the System 10

Plan, to his Malahide fitness studio, Just Classses.

Aidan played football with St Sylvesters for 25 years, and he is currently doing a degree in strength and conditioning.

He is also involved with a company that does GPS fitness testing, and has worked with Cork and Dublin hurlers, Munster and Connaught rugby and is currently monitoring Kilmacud Crokes senior footballers.

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS SUB PRIME LOAN Q – I have a €240,000 loan with a sub-prime lender taken out six years ago. At that time, I had missed a couple of repayments on my car loan and my adviser said the mainstream lenders would not consider me for a loan. I did not really understand the consequences – all I wanted was a home for my family. I have maintained the repayments every month but am now beginning to feel the pinch – my interest rate is 7.5% and I am paying €1,678 per month at the moment. I could save over € 600 a month by moving to a high street lender. What are my chances ?

David - Clontarf A – The Irish Credit Bureau (ICB) in Clonskeagh Dublin 14 is a lender’s first port of call to check your credit history. Missed payments stay on record for five years, but, if you have kept the nose clean these past five Aidan Mahon of Malahide’s Just Classes

years, then you may have a case to swap back to a normal lender. The whole idea of sub-prime was a kind of

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

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

A: Delivering newspapers Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: 2 and 6 Q: Have you ever done a job you loathed?

A: no Q: When did you start your present job?

A: 2004

purgatory – you did your penance but after a while, you were allowed to come back into the fold. Here is your

A: I don’t delegate

A: Beethovens 5th symphony,

A: Dame edna, no change that

checklist to see if you qualify with a high-street lender :

Q: What’s currently on your desk that shouldn’t be?

A: My dog

karaoke version

to enda, aussies very disingenuous when we beat them in rugby world cup

1. Check with the ICB to see if your credit record is now

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: TK Maxx

valuation of your home should be in excess of €300,000

Q: Is there anything about yoursefl that you would like to set the record straight on?

A: The money was resting in my account

Q: What sport do you follow?

A: Gaelic football Q: What sport can you play?

A: Gaelic football

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: Seeing and helping people

Q: What habits would you like to lose?

A: Being untidy

achieve their weightloss goals

Q: At the moment, what are you looking forward to?

A: Dublin winning the all Ire-

Q: Have you ever achieved anything that you once thought you could not pull off?

A: No Q: What part of your working day do you ‘delegate’?

land again next year

Q: What is your guilty music, TV or movie pleasure?

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

A: Jedward, no one writes letters anymore

Q: What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/ iPad? A: Don’t have either Q: Who do you follow on twitter/facebook?

A: Don’t do either Q: What was your last tweet/ facebook status?

A: As above Q: Describe your dream meal?

A: Burger and chips in the diamond burger bar malahide

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

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: Five Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: Joey the Lips’ stag

clear.

2. Ensure the loan to value is less than 80% - so the based on your € 240,000 mortgage.

3. Your joint income should be between € 53,000 to €60,000, or the same amount if the only earner in the home.

4. You will need P60, pay slips and status enquiry form along with 12 months current account bank statements AND your sub prime loan statements plus any other current loan statements.

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: A month in Argentina

ONE-YEAR INVESTMENT

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: Racehorse trainer

you suggest – An Post, bank deposit or would I be

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

A: Get fat

A – Unless your cash flow is poor, then you can certainly

Q – Where can I get the best return on € 15,000? I don’t need this sum for at least a year. What would better off putting a lump sum off my interest-only tracker mortgage ? Mollie – Lucan better the return on a deposit account than paying off your tracker mortgage (ECB is 1.5% currently – and going down too - and with your margin say 1%, a total of 2.5%). Add the DIRT tax, and you would have to earn less

AIB getting on board with start-ups AIB has announced details of a new initiative with the Chamber Network in Ireland.

This initiative provides new AIB Business Start-Up customers with a 50% discount on their first year’s annual membership of their local affiliated Chamber.

The affiliated Chamber Network is the largest Irish business network with 45 affiliated Chambers around the country, and 13,000 business members.

This offer aims to provide new AIB Business Start-up customers with the support and advice they need to help them get their business up and running by giving customers access to an established local business network to build sound business connections for the future.

Local Chamber membership provides excellent networking and business development opportunities for AIB Business Start-up customers.

These start-ups will have the prospect to join a unique network focused on representing the interests of member businesses and growing sales opportunities for all members.

Support This support offer provided by the Chamber Network is one element of the AIB Business Start-up Package which has been specifically tailored to meet the needs of new and early stage businesses.

Other elements of the package include:

than 3.42% for the year to justify paying off the mortgage. I would warn you though you should try and start capital repayments – interest-only payments only kick the can down the road. You will eventually have to pay the capital over a shorter period ( therefore greater repayments).

Best one-year deposits in the meantime? AIB Bank and

Special two-year Current Account fee offer Online banking services -

Permanent TSB offer a 12 month fixed at 3.95%. After that at 3.75% is Investec Bank and Nationwide UK at 3,65%. Stretching it out for a further year to three-

two years free subscription

years investment would include An Post’s Savings

to iBusiness Banking or

Bond – 10% tax free, equivalent to 4.42% from a DIRT

registration to AIB Phone and

deducting deposit taker.

Internet Banking AIB Classic Visa Business Card

Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at

AIB Business Overdraft

www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the

SME Loan for Start-up

Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing

Businesses

director of Money Doctor

22 GAZETTE 20 October 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL What’sHappening

In October, Spain celebrates the Safron Rose Fiesta

October in Spain, a good time for festivals, parties, gastronomy and traditions AUTUMN is a fantastic time in Spain for fiestas, with many on offer. Choose from the Saffron Rose Fiesta, All SaintsHallowee’n or Festival of St Martin.

Consuegra, in the province of Toledo, celebrates the Saffron Rose Fiesta at the end of October. It aims to promote the cultural essence of Castile-La Mancha through its gastronomy, crafts, history and traditions. The event offers a highly varied programme, starting with the proclamation

by Dulcinea and the Maids of Honour.

Especially outstanding during the celebrations are the Grinding of Peace and Love, where a 16th-century windmill grinds wheat to make flour; the traditional La Mancha gastronomy event; the Saffron Rose harvesting competition, where participants have to separate the saffron from the flower in the least time possible, and a Folk Festival with groups from all over the region. Saffronproducers are the main protagonists of this fiesta, which has been held since 1963.

Exhibitions, cultural activities and sporting competitions complete the programme.

On All Saints day, Spanish families visit the local cemeteries in order to remember their dead relatives and friends.

Floral offerings, particularly chrysanthemums, are placed on the graves. It is a ritual to remembrance and homage the ancestors.

The Catholic Church believes that the holiday stems from the decision of Pope Boniface IV to enshrine the “Pantheon” the cult of the Virgin and the martyrs. “It commemorated the saints thus anonymous and unknown to most of Christendom”.

The current celebration of Halloween has little to do with its origins. It has become the festival of the dead but with a totally different character and adding elements that have distorted the party. Among the additions is the tradition of dressing up, possibly born in France between the XIV and XV to celebrate the Feast of All Saints.

Every November 11, Aller celebrates one of the most popular autumn folklore festivals in Asturias.

The festival is organised by the San Martin Humanitarian Association and begins with the traditional sung Mass of San Martin, accompanied by the sound of the typical Asturian bagpipes. Then, the auction, known as the Puya del Ramu begins, where people are invited to bid for the emmer bread which has previously been blessed in the religious service.

The high point of the festivity is the great communal feast of San Martin, which consists of fabada, typical Asturian white bean stew casadiellas, and panchon typical sweets from Aller.

Roving Gazette reporter, Hiromi Mooney, has just returned from a fact-finding mission to the island of Malta. In what turned out to be a most revealing visit, she experienced far more than just stunning blue sea, golden beaches and a balmy 300C. THE GREY clouds are well and truly gathering here in Ireland, but you can escape it all and enjoy some last-minute rays of sunshine in Malta.

A stunning island, that’s only a three-and-a-half hour flight away, Malta has lots to offer in the way of beaches, culture and food.

Malta, Gozo and Comino make up the Maltese islands in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea. The islands are bursting with culture and are rooted with deep traditions – being ruled in the past by Normans, Roman Catholics and Arabs, to name but a few.

Everywhere you look is another golden-beige building shimmering in the heat.

Surrounded by a crystal clear, aqua-blue sea dotted with white sails of yachts, the Maltese islands are a sunshine paradise. For Irish holidaymakers, the added bonuses are that the currency is the euro and the official language is both English and Maltese.

With 40% of the population working in the tourism sector, the Maltese are a friendly people and are extremely helpful and deliver excellent service to ensure that you enjoy all that the islands have to offer.

The peak summer months in Malta reach 500C, so, for anyone looking for a warm but tolerable climate, anytime from late September is

Palazzo Parisio garden

ideal, as temperatures range between 20 and 300C. With more than 365 churches and chapels dotted around the islands, the Maltese islands offer a spiritual retreat away from the highpaced city life.

The beaches and the sea are an obvious attraction in Malta, but the islands are also bursting with historical and cultural sites.

A must-see place is Mdina.

This town is set in a walled fort, and was Malta’s first capital city during the time of the Knights of Malta, and is often called The Silent City.

Since only around 400 people live here, only residents are allowed to drive their cars inside the town, so you can enjoy a nice walk.

Malta’s capital city, Valletta, has many tourist attractions, including St John’s Co-Cathedral.

The Cathedral is known as Home of The Knights (Grand Masters) of Malta for a good reason. It was built in 1571 and there are almost 400 tombstones of the knights buried beneath its floors.

The walls are gilded with 24-carat gold leaf, the ceilings are elaborately decorated and there are many carved statues.

There are also two paintings here by Caravaggio – one of which is his only signed painting.

The island of Gozo is a 25-minute ferry ride from Malta. It is smaller and more rural, with most of the island’s inhabitants involved in farming or fishing

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

Surrounded by a crystal clear, aqua blue sea dotted with white sails of yachts, the Maltese islands are a sunshine paradise.

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

Also in Valletta is the Grand Master’s Palace, where the Maltese Parliament and President sit. The corridors are lined with knight armoury and portrait paintings.

The Church of St. Mary in Mosta cannot be skipped, as it is considered to be home to a miracle. In 1942, during World War II, a German bomb fell through the dome ceiling and skidded across the floor.

However, it did not explode, and although the church was crowded at the time, no one was killed or injured. The

bomb has been defused and is on display for visitors to see the potential damage it could have caused.

For a beautiful view of the harbour, visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens.

Exciting A new tourist attraction in Malta is the segway tours. It’s an exciting and unique to see the city, and are commonly seen used by police men in Malta. Full instructions, a practise run and helmets will be provided, and prices start from €60 for 90 minutes.

For booking information, visit www.segwaymalta.com.

The slogan, Once Seen, Never Forgotten, of Palazzo Parisio in Naxxar really says it all.

It is a family-owned house and gardens that have been passed down through the generations, and the present owners have opened it up for the public to enjoy.

The house has a captivating beauty about it, and is full

20 October 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

The beauty and joy of Malta

TravelBriefs Super ski bundle deal for January getaway THIS offer from travel counsellor Dairine McGarrity includes return flights, seven nights accommodation, transfers, skis or snowboard, boots, lift pass and all taxes.

Austria: Depart from Dublin or Cork on January 7, and spend a week skiing in the pretty village of Westendorf. Stay in the Angerer apartments on

contact the Northern Ireland Tourist Board on callsave 1850 230 230, or visit www.discovernorthernireland.com

Rail-y good breaks in Northern Ireland LEAVE the car at home this autumn and enjoy a relaxing break in Northern Ireland from only £75pps* and avail of 1st Plus rail travel on the Enter-

Special ski deals from Dairine McGarrity

Staying there: RADISSON Blu Resort at St Julians in Malta is a luxurious getaway suitable for families, couples or for business trips.

The five-star hotel features rooms with balconies overlooking the Mediterranean Sea or the outdoor pool. The buffet breakfast gives you the option to sit indoors or in the sunshine at the poolside, and there are three restaurants and two bars to choose from. The hotel is just a 10-minute walk away from the nightlife in St Julians.

Phoenicia Hotel Malta in Valletta is a beautiful five-star hotel for both business and pleasure. It is also a romantic spot for an unforgettable fairy-tale wedding experience.

of elaborate chandeliers and decorations. Outside is just as spectacular, with a walled garden full of hibiscus syriacus, bougainvillea and cascading geraniums. Cafe Luna delivers fine outdoor dining at its best.

To try out a tranquil winetasting experience, a visit to Meridiana Wine Estate is per-

fect. Sitting on 47 acres of land with more than 90,000 vines, they produce “World Class Wines of Maltese Character”.

The island of Gozo is just 25 minutes away from Cirkewwa in Malta by ferry, and the return trip costs only €4.65.

The majority of the island’s inhabitants work in farming

and fishing as the island is smaller and more rural than Malta.

The Ggantija Temple is a UNESCO protected world heritage site. It is made of large slabs of rock fitted together like a jigsaw, and is one of the oldest buildings in the world, dating from around 3,500BC.

A natural attraction is The Azure Window, which is a natural rock archway at the end of a cliff through which you can admire the dark blue sea.

Ta Mena Wine Estate offers visitors a wine tasting experience under the Maltese sunshine.

The Estate also offers accommodation, tours, local food and produce, and also caters for functions and weddings. For more information, visit www.tamena-gozo.com.

In Mdina, the restaurant Ciappetti offers a peaceful atmosphere as you dine in the courtyard, under the shade of a variety of leaves and plants.

In Vittoriosa, the Riviera Della Marina Restaurant allows you to dine at the waterfront overlooking countless numbers of yachts. On a hot sunny day, you can enjoy something light and refreshing, like a melon and parma ham salad.

For more information about the Maltese islands, visit www. visitmalta.com

self-catering basis from €749pp based on four adults sharing.

Italy: Depart on January 7 from Dublin and stay seven nights in the Livigno apartments on self-catering basis from €689pp based on three sharing Limited availability – call today to book.

For other ski destinations, there is a three-day sale currently running with prices from €302, not including ski packs.

Call Dairine McGarrity on 01 2915153 for more details, or visit www.travelcounsellors.ie/dairine.mcgarrity.

Enjoy an arty two-night break in Belfast AS PART of the 130th annual Royal Ulster Academy Exhibition a number of artists will arrive to the Ulster Museum to talk about their work. These free events include talks by Rosie McGurran, Mark Shields, Barbara Freeman, Hector McDonnell and Mick O’Dea. While visiting the museum why not turn your trip into a short break by taking advantage of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board’s (NITB) special accommodation offer at the Wellington Park Hotel, Belfast, with two nights’ accommodation, breakfast and one evening meal from £89pps.

For further information

prise.

Sit back and relax on the Enterprise from Dublin Connolly to Belfast Central Station, enjoy accommodation in a selection of 3, 4 and 5-star hotels across Northern Ireland, including the Ramada Encore in Belfast and Armagh City Hotel, and three days unlimited Metro, Ulsterbus and NI Railways travel.

To find out more information on these great value breaks, or for further information on things to see and do in Northern Ireland, check out the free booking and advice service and callsave 1850 230 230, visit Northern Ireland Tourist Board’s (NITB) Tourist Information Centre in Suffolk Street, Dublin 2 or click on www.discovernorthernireland.com. *Subject to availability.

Spa offer in Galway THE FIVE-star g Hotel is celebrating its 6th birthday as Galway’s leading designer hotel with an irresistible offer.

Book two consecutive nights to avail of their birthday rate, including full Irish breakfast and receive one pass per person to ESPA at the g’s glorious thermal suite. Cost is from €60 per person sharing per night.

Offer is subject to availability on selected dates from Sunday to Thursday.

Visit www.theghotel.ie

24 SWORDS GAZETTE 20 October 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929 Shipwrecked

IRELAND’s role as a landscape for a fugitive Spanish captain from a shipwrecked Armada galleon is explored in this innovative musical theatre event at The Pavilion theatre in Dun Laoghaire, which fuses Spanish music of the 16th century with Irish music of the same period, alongside instrumental and vocal music from Elizabethan England. An unforgettable night of music will feature more than a dash of improvised creativity, creating a shipwreck for the audience to linger around. Catch Shipwrecked on Thursday, October 20 at 8pm, with tickets costing €17/€15.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 The Magic of Take That

TAKE That fans are in for a treat when “the band” take to the stage in Dundrum, promosing to bring some of “their” best-known hits to south Dublin fans. All of their hits will be played, as the performers run through many of Take That’s repertoire – backed up tracks from a certain Mr Williams.

So, for a Take That band you’ll be delighted by, you’re invited to let them entertain you on Sunday, October 23, at 8pm, with tickets costing €15.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 My Way

GARVAN Gallagher’s commendable exhibition examines the “invisible” status of older citizens, with a diverse range of work examing the status and self-image of our elders.

Whether personal texts, short films, or even fashion shoots replacing younger models with more mature citizens, My Way is an excellent, diverse project underlining how valuable our “invisible” citizens are. My Way runs at Driaocht’s ground floor gallery until Saturday, November 5.

These two sleeping sisters are a picture of domestic bliss in Paranormal Activity 3 - until you learn that there’s nobody else in the room so who, or what, is casting that impossible shadow on the wall? All will be revealed, thanks to video cameras around their home ...

Not a haunting film This latest addition to the franchise doesn’t leave Kate spooked, but has a ghost of a chance at Dublin cinemas Q KATE CROWLEY

THERE are many things in life that scare me. The Eurozone-wide fiscal malaise. Mr Crowley‘s idea of a tidy kitchen. But the Paranormal Activity films? Ah, no, no.

Seemingly cooked up

by Hollywood execs who thought that mixing Most Haunted with Amityville would be box office gold – well, actually, the previous films in the series have done well enough, now that I think of it.

Deciding that “actual found video footage” scenes would be a plausible, engaging way to make a thoroughly modern ghost story, the filmmakers certainly did their best to exorcise audiences’ minds with the previous films in the series.

The plots have been similar enough, to a certain degree: Couple/ family move into a new place, only for things to go bump in the night. Cue

FILM OF THE WEEK: Paranormal Activity 3 +++ (15A) 84 mins Directors: Henry Joost, Ariel Schulman Starring: Christopher Nicholas Smith, Katie Featherston, Sprague Grayden, Lauren Bittner, one determined spook

OUR VERDICT: POSSESSED with an interesting idea for a prequel, the third addition to the popular series is an improvement over its predecessors. Paranormal Activity 3 is a diverting enough romp through a haunted house tale, proving that, as always, if you live by yourself but hear scratching on the other side of a door – whether it’s an empty room or a wardrobe – don‘t open it…

the use of video cameras to record what’s going on all around the house/ apartment.

Cue footage of doors shutting by themselves in empty rooms, furniture moving around, impossible shadows in rooms, eerie noises from the attic/basement, and much more …

Oh, if only they’d moved into the house where Casper The Friendly Ghost lived! (Or unlived, if The Gazette subs will let that one pass.)

With this well-established template to work from, and following a

recent trend for trilogies, the filmmakers have decided that the third film should be a prequel.

Linking two of the chief protagonists from the first two films, the film jumps back to the late 1980s, when they were both children, and to the start of the “fun” that would follow them into their adulthood.

Dad, Dennis (Christopher Smith) is a wedding videographer living with his wife and their two little girls in a suburban house.

His job gives a very plausible way for the film

to be set up, as, intrigued by the strange things that begin to happen around the house (such as the “trick” of knocking on a wardrobe door, only to hear a knock back from the inside a moment later), Dennis sets up video cameras around the home.

He uses his videographer skills to film and document the ordinary family’s life – and the extraordinary things that seem to be happening.

Of course, the girls’ new imaginary friend that they seem able to see, and with whom they play the knock-knock game and more, soon decides to leave the grown-ups (and, presumably, the audience) increasingly spooked.

It isn’t long before it’s throwing a supernatural strop around the house, targeting them and the Inevitable Spirit Expert Guy they call in (who, presumably, had better rates than the Ghostbusters).

Seemingly possessed (geddit?) by the spirit of Shaggy and Scooby Doo, it’s not long before the freaked-out family decide that home sweet home ain’t all it’s cracked up to be – but, in a turn of events that you don’t have to be Derek Acorah to predict, things don’t end well …

Actually, I have to admit a grudging admiration for the prequel’s set-up, as using a videographer in this way adds a certain level of credibility that the other films lacked, and there are plenty of interesting scenes throughout.

Of course, as someone who has to face my bathroom’s weighing scales on a regular basis, I’m made of sterner stuff than most, so it‘s not a film to spook me out. However, if you’re looking for a ghost story with a difference, this one should leave you feeling chilled – in an appropriately unnerved way …

20 October 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 25

GazetteGAMING GAMING A dead certain hit for Capcom – again SHANE DILLON

IN WHAT has turned into a curious case of almost “Zombie of the Week” reviews — perhaps ahead of the upcoming “Shooter of the Week” battles due between a number of well-known titles — there seem to have been a whole range of zombie-related titles shuffling into sight, and around the charts, in recent times.

As much as gamers like zombies, I think we’ve had just about enough of them by now, in a genre which, much like its subject matter, simply won‘t die – rest assured that this is the last zombiethemed anything to shuffle onto these pages for some time to come.

Still, I couldn’t let this title pass, as there’s an interesting story behind this occasionally darkhearted, yet over-the-top and slightly comic franchise.

Capcom’s multi-platform title, Dead Rising: Off the Record, is the latest in a series of openworld survival horror titles, yet defined with comic moments and, in this case, sees the return of goofball photojournalist, Frank West.

Following a substantial zombie outbreak some years ago, Frank initially roamed around a giant shopping mall, snooping and scooping the news as he uncovered what was happening, while at the same time trying to rescue and save survivors, and avoid becoming lunch, himself.

Frank – a slightly out of shape, not especially heroic character – ran around using everything in the mall to stay alive, with the menace of being eaten by zombies being substantially lightened

Bytesandpieces Nintendo hoping for a Wii push PERHAPS in a bid to make up for the surprisingly disappointing sales of the 3DS, Nintendo are soon to launch a redesigned Wii console, with the console expected to hit retailers next month.

Still performing solidly enough, despite a relative drought in original or must-have titles, the “new” Wii will be largely similar to the existing model, save for some hardware reconfigurations that most purchasers most likely won’t notice.

I certainly hope that a new Wii can help put a fair wind back behind the company’s sales sails once again – but, please, no more Zumba games...

While an entirely new Wii console is on the way, a slightly redesigned version is also set for release

Frank West (above, and right) returns to the Dead Rising series for his latest adventure, which sees the wrestler-cum-photojournalist attempt to y uncover the truth behind some zombie-related activities across Fortune City

by, say, slapping them in the face with frying pans, dropping traffic cones over their heads, making them fall over on scattered marbles – pure Tom And Jerry stuff.

Enclosed setting The inevitable sequel, Dead Rising 2, saw a new protagonist with a different back story running around an enclosed Las Vegas-style setting, with “Fortune City” providing a much larger, yet similar, world in which to

rescue survivors, uncover a major plot, and stay alive.

However, fans had been clamouring for the cult figure of Frank to return, and now, following a couple of spin-off digital download episodes (and even guest roles in a number of other Capcom games) he returns as the star in a cheekily rejigged version of the preceding title, which, now, takes place at the same time, yet in a different, standalone

fashion. Still with me?

And so, although the title is still very much an adult game (as facing down thousands of zombies is, inevitably, going to be a messy task), fans and gamers will welcome the paunchy character’s return.

The wisecracking hack’s gameplay style sees him photographing key points of interest to earn him major PP, or experience, points to help level up – an entertainingly fun activity.

Off the Record is of greatest interest as something that’s almost a carbon copy of its predecessor title.

While standing on its own merits, it’s curious that we’re seeing such a rejigged title being released like this, almost as a twin of the earlier title.

Still, given gamers’ interest in Frank, and in the particular style of this franchise, it’s likely to be a dead-certain hit for Capcom, again.

GAZETTE

26 SWORDS GAZETTE 20 October 2011

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GazetteSPORT

BACK ON TRACK: We catch up with former World Champ Bernard Dunne Page 29

MOTOR RACING: SWORDS DRIVER OPENS NEW CIRCUIT IN TAIWAN IN NEW F1 CAR

Thompson has the Formula for making history sport@gazettegroup.com

SWORDS man Gar y Thompson helped to officially open Taiwan’s all-new Penbay International Circuit in spectacular style last weekend when he got behind the wheel of a two-seater Formula 1 car.

The 19-year-old driver, who has spent the 2011 season contesting the Japanese Formula 3 championship, became the youngest Irishman

in history to drive a modern grand prix car, as well as the first from any nation to pilot one in Taiwan, after accepting an invitation to offer distinguished guests passenger rides at the 3.5km circuit’s opening.

It was also an opportunity for Thompson to catch up with team personnel from KCMG who, having overseen his 2011 single-seater campaign, were now

sampling their first taste of running Formula 1 machinery.

It was also a new experience for the thousands of fans in attendance, many of whom had never witnessed a grand prix car in the flesh before.

This was just another day at the office for T hompson who, despite the wet conditions, enjoyed his time behind the wheel of the Minardi F1x2, which

Local driver, Gary Thompson, was the youngest ever Irish driver to race an F1 car in Taiwan

produces in excess of 700bhp thanks to its r a c e - d e r i ve d 3 - l i t r e Cosworth V10 engine.

“The car has a lot of power which can be difficult to exploit in the wet, but I know the cir-

cuit and KCMG CEOs enjoyed the wheelspin regardless. I’ve been racing in Asia for the past three seasons, so to be the first person to drive a Formula 1 car in Taiwan is personally

extremely rewarding,” said Thompson.

“Penbay International Circuit is a great venue with a lot of potential in a part of the world that is really beginning to embrace motor sport.

Everyone at the track did a fantastic job to get it up to standard in time for the event. You never know, I might be back here one day putting my local knowledge to good use!”

28 SWORDS GAZETTE 20 October 2011

GazetteSport Sport

It ain’t heavy, it’s Sam Maguire

Bernard Brogan and friend at Ravens

Dublin County Board Chairman and Fingal Ravens man, Andy Kettle

Sam on tour Maguire trophy at Ravens INGAL Ravens GAA Club were recently celebrating as the Sam Maguire trophy arrived at the club on it’s grand tour of the city.

Squad players Darren Daly, Eamon Fennell, Bernard Brogan and Paul Flynn were on hand to represent the side who are the pride of the city, while the adult and juvenile members of the club and their families were delighted to have the trophy at the club.

Dublin footballers Darren Daly, Eamon Fennell, Bernard Brogan and Paul Flynn with Fingal friends

F

Denise O’Reilly is all smiles for Sam

Trophy, baby!

20 October 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 29

in association with

Forza Bernard!

Back on track Former world champion Bernard Dunne is relishing using his new celebrity status to impart his knowledge to a new generation

STEPPING away from the sport that has defined you for the majority of your life is never a simple thing, especially when you have reached the pinnacle of that sport and been the champion of the world.

But for former superbantamweight world champion, Bernard Dunne, the new lease of life away from the ring is very much agreeing with him, and opening up a whole new career path for the Neilstown man.

GazetteSport caught up with the champ as he prepared to get behind the wheel at Mondello Park when he took part in the launch of the new XBox 360 game, Forza

Motorsport 4.

“One of the privileges of being retired now means that I get to enjoy the things I want to do.

Kieran Donaghy and I are heading down there

assimilate the defeat by top contender Poonsawat Kratingdaenggym, was the right one for him.

“I’m adapting to life away from the fight game.

Life is good and it has

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

‘I want to get involved and do something that will influence kids for the better, give them some sort of belief in themselves’

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

to play some games and maybe do some driving, so it’s another chance for a Dub to beat him today!”

Dunne was also sure that his decision to retire, having taken time to

Formula 1 enthusiasts Kieran Donaghy, Kerry footballer, and Bernard Dunne, unveiled the latest installment of Forza Motorsport 4 at Mondello Park

changed, it was the right decision at the right time.

And things are going well for me, I can’t complain.

“I’ve not got back involved in boxing myself. My dad does a lot of coaching a couple of nights a week with the kids at Palmerstown, but I’m not rushing back into the sport. I’ll cover it for TV, but getting involved myself, other than getting training again soon, isn’t something that’ll happen overnight. I’m out of the ring long enough to know there’s no chance of a comeback!”

Dunne is very much defined by the city he comes from, and his allegiance to the Neilstown area and Dublin as a whole is undeniable.

He is also very much involved in using his celebrity for good, setting up bernarddunnecharities.com and adding his presence to raising monies for causes close to his heart in the city.

“I worked with Jimmy McGee last year, and this year we ran a soccer event and a gala dinner up at Citywest for Pieta House.

That’s a charity close to ourselves in Lucan and close to myself. The basis of the event is to give them as much support as we can and give them as much awareness among the public as we can.

“We had Packy Bonner, Paul McGrath, Ray Houghton and many more - Celtic’s Anthony Stokes took some time out to take part, and it was a brilliant day.”

Always funny and ebullient, Dunne’s easy charm combined with his desire to give something back makes him an ideal person to appear in the media to promote causes and support young people, something that has led to an exciting upcoming project for the boxing hero.

“I’ve been busy promoting things, public speaking and media work with radio and television. I’ve been working with RTE on a young people’s programme, on how to focus and push themselves, in order to achieve what they want to achieve, called Ultimate Street Challenge.

“We took 10 teenagers from all over the country, set them up in Dublin, and I set them challenges they had to accomplish, whether they were physical, mental, working as a

team or working as individuals. It was about seeing how they adapted and how they applied themselves. There was a kid from Tallaght who takes place in the show - but you’ll need to wait until it’s on the air before you find out how they get on!

“In the boxing club, my dad trains the kids, and he enjoys that a lot. For my dad, its’ about keeping the kids occupied, busy and off the street, as well as giving them something to work towards.

“He’s teaching them as well how to behave, boxing instills that in kids. It gives them a discipline and a focus, as well as a belief that they can do something for themselves, that they can achieve, and that’s a part of what I brought to the TV show.

“I’ve said for a long time now, that I do the media stuff, but there is a part of me that wants to get involved and do something that will influence kids for the better, give them some sort of belief in themselves. I’m just a kid from Neilstown made good, and if I can do it, then anyone can do it.

“If you apply yourself and work hard, and never mind what anyone says about you or where you come from, if you believe in it and work had, things can really happen for you, and you can make what you want to achieve into a reality.”

FastSport

Egan to decide Olympic and World Series future NEILSTOWN hero Kenneth Egan may be fighting out of Germany in the next season of the World Series of Boxing, as he looks set to sign with the Leipzig Leopards after the collapse of the Miami Gallos franchise.

With the next season of the WSB due to begin on November 11, Egan is expected to drop back down from heavyweight to the WSB light-heavy limit of 85kg for the new season.

Egan’s decision is also contingent on his approach to qualification for the Olympic Games next year, following Joe Ward’s failure to qualify for London 2012 at the recent world championships. The light heavyweight berth is still vacant, and Egan has an opportunity to claim his place by claiming the senior title in the Irish National championships in April next year.

Celtic seeking new keeper Esker Celtic Over-35s are looking for a new goalkeeper. If you fancy having a laugh, and the occasional Saturday afternoon game of football, contact Ron on 087 974 8263, and for more information, see eskerceltic.ie.

Roche ends season on high NICOLAS Roche produced another excellent performance to add to his fine run of late season results in Gran Piemonte as he took fifth place, just

six days after winning stage three of the Tour of Beijing.

The Dundrum man finished in the breakaway group of the 199km race, coming home in fifth in 14-rider sprint.

Katusha’s Dani Moreno took the win from a high-quality group which included Paris-Tours winner Gerg van Avermaet and long-time Tour de France yellow jersey holder, Thomas Voeckler.

Roche was the sole rider in the top places to have contested the Tour of Beijing, and provided another boost for Irish cycling ahead of the Tour of Lombardy.

30 SWORDS GAZETTE 20 October 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

SOCCER: CELTIC SIDES PROGRESS IN NATIONAL CONTESTS

St Finian’s G4M team. Picture GAA pics.com

Gaelic 4Mothers have a fantastic blitz day Swords Celtic’s Under-17 Premier side were celebrating after defeating Woodlawn in the FAI Umbro Cup

OVER 900 women took part in the feel good Gaelic4Mothers and Others national blitz day in Portmarnock last Saturday.

The National Blitz Day is the biggest day on the Gaelic4Mothers & Others calendar.

This year, 74 teams participated which resulted in approximately 900 women getting their football boots on for the day. Teams came from every province in Ireland. Participants had a fantastic day of football and also enjoyed strolling around the exhibitor marquees.

For more information in Gaelic4Mothers and Others visit www.ladiesgaelic.ie.

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.

Cup success for Swords sport@gazettegroup.com

SWORDS Celtic enjoyed another strong set of results in the SFAI Cup competitions last weekend when their Under-12 Premier and Under-16 Premier teams both progressed to the next rounds, enjoying impressive 7-2 and 6-2 wins respectively.

For the latter, their success against Clonee United was enough to push them to the verge of the national draw of the competition, having made it through the first three rounds of the North Leinster section in fine fashion, netting

a total of 13 goals in the process.

They were aided by the coaching of Neale Fenn, the former Bohemians and Tottenham Hotspur star, who took his first training session with the team on the Tuesday night before the game in Balheary, and their dedication – training at the same time as the Republic of Ireland vs Armenia match – paid off.

The national competition, which features 281 sides from around the country, has just four places in the open draw for North Leinster, with Swords guaranteed a home draw for that

Potato power: Local firm are new Under-7 sponsors FINGALLIANS’ Under-7 football group were cheering last week when local company, Simon Snow Farms, well known for their Mr Spud brand, presented them with a new set of jerseys last week. The group, who train at on Wednesdays from 6 to 6.45pm, were very grateful to the local company, whose Quintin Snow was on hand to present the shirts, and will be wearing their new jerseys with pride at forthcoming matches.

Picture: Kyran O’Brien

impending tie. Swords are, effectively, down to the last 64 of the competition.

The U-12s are a step further back, their victory over Clontarf putting them into third round of the regional stages, setting up a date with Kilbarrack United.

T heir competition features 330 sides, with Swords now two games from reaching the last 32 in the open draw.

It follows up the good work on the national stage by the club’s U-17 Premier side, who beat Woodlawn in the FAI Umbro Cup. Woodlawn scored first

before Celtic’s Tarim Elnemmawi equalised.

This fiercely competitive match saw Swords fall behind for a second time, until Gary Forde knocked in a cracker of a shot to level the game at 2 - 2.

With extra-time looming, and the strong gusting wind in the favour of the home team, Swords continued to pile on pressure on the visitors goal.

T he pressure was rewarded when Gary Forde sent anunstoppable shot past the Woodlawn keeper to win the game. With the side already topping their

division, it is shaping up to be an encouraging season for the side.

Elsewhere, the club’s Under-15s followed on from last week’s away draw against Clontarf with a home win, beating Dunboyne 4-3.

Eoin Fagan scored the crucial fourth goal which gave the Under12s a 4 -3 win over Ratoath. Ian Scanlon was on the mark twice in the last five minutes of the 16A game away at Maynooth to give Celtic a 4-2 win.

Conor McGrath in goal saved a Maynooth penalty and two rebound shots.

20 October 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 31

in association with

FOOTBALL: RAVENS BOW OUT WITH REPLAY DEFEAT

CLUB NOTICEBOARD FINGALLIANS THIS year’s AGM will take place on

raig Durkan, on 087 256 2965 or e-mail

Thursday, November 17 at 9pm.

padraig.durkan.gpo.dublin@gaa.ie

The senior footballers will play St

The club shop re-opened for

Jude’s next Saturday in the champi-

business on Saturday and will be

onship play-off (time and venue to be

open each Saturday from 10am to

announced).

12.30pm. located at the door to the

U-14 hurlers had a great win over

main hall). We will be stocking a full

Faugh’s on Saturday to move back

range of Fingallians-branded O’Neills

into second in the league.

Gear, along with the new customis-

The Movember kick-off party will

able O’Neills Hurling Helmets. Also

take place in Fingallians GAA Club on

available will be a range of ONeill’s

Sunday, October 30. The Gala Mous-

sliothers, footballs, bags, Gloves and

tache Show will be at the same venue

the ONeills range of performance

on Saturday, November 26. Join the

underwear, specially branded for

Fingallians Movember team by click-

Fingallians players.

ing below or find us on the Movember

Next year’s U-14s are running a

website: ie.movember.com/regis-

Name the 2012 All Stars competi-

ter.

tion in aid of the 2012 Feile teams. Be

Fingallians GAA Coaching Seminar

in with a chance to win or share the

2011 takes place on Saturday, Octo-

€250 prize for an all correct entry.

ber 29 at 10am in the club hall: “The

Entry forms at the bar.

Cornerstones of Good Coaching”,

Irelands most extraordinary club,

including guest speakers, Paudie

the Bloodbank, will visit Fingallians

Butler and Philip Kerr. For more

on Wednesday and Thursday, Octo-

information, contact our GPO, Pad-

ber 26 and 27 from 5 to 8.30pm.

Fingal Ravens remained in the game after what was a poor opening to the match against Ballyboden

Fingal fail to find the final flourish

FINGAL RAVENS

DUBLIN SFC ROUND 3

ing promotion to Division 4 after

We are having an award night for

they beat Good Counsel on Sunday

our U-21s who won the 2010 champi-

morning.

onship and our ladies team who won

Ballyboden St Enda’s Fingal Ravens

2-10 0-13

sport@gazettegroup.com

FINGAL Ravens’ run in the Dublin SFC finally came to an end last week when they fell at the second attempt to 2009 champions, Ballyboden St Enda’s, in Parnell Park.

In the final reckoning, early goals from Andrew Kerin and Bob Dwane played a big part in the win, as Ballyboden built a 2-2 to 0-2 lead inside the opening phases and, while Mick Deegan’s men rallied, they were unable to overhaul their illustrious rivals in the final reckoning.

The tone of the match was struck soon after Warren Finnegan had opened the scoring with the first of seven scores on the night. Michael Darragh Macauley was brought down and Kerin duly converted from the penalty line.

Ciaran Norton responded with a nice effort, but Paul Galvin’s effort for Boden was proceeded by Dwane’s goal, as the Ravens’ defence opened up invitingly.

It left the Rolestown outfit in a jam, but they rallied well to concede just one further point — a long-range Declan O’Mahony free — before the break, while Ian and Darragh Kavangh, as well as Norton and Finnegan, got the gap between the sides down to the minimum at halftime, 2-3 to 0-8.

After an exchange of frees between Kerin and Finnegan, Alan Casey levelled matters early in the second half, before Finnegan completed the comeback with another placed ball.

Niall Tormey then went close to goaling himself, only for his effort to draw a brave block. Boden responded with three points in quick succession to

reclaim the lead, 0-11 to 2-7.

Finnegan responded, but Kerin and O’Mahony chipped in before Sean Gibbons took a swing at a loose ball to clear the bar, a score which put his side four ahead at a crucial stage in the game.

T his time, Ravens could not muster the full response, despite Finnegan’s prompting. Martin Flanagan’s straight red compounded matters, and they could not get back on terms at that late stage.

The result saw Boden into the last 16, after a drawn-out process, to take on St Peregrine’s

five days later, a task which they accomplished with the minimum of difficulty, running up 2-11 without response before halftime, en route to a 2-19 to 0-4 win.

Ravens, meanwhile, have just one game left in their current campaign, and look set to finish mid-table in AFL1.

Their tie with Ballymun Kickhams may have to wait, though, as their progression in the championship means they play their quarter-final on Saturday, leaving a league date in limbo for the time being.

CONGRATULATIONS to our U-11 team who beat Naomh Fionnbarra on Saturday to win the league; well done to Mick, Pat and Paul.

Rolestown in the championship.

The club AGM will take place on Thursday, November 17 at 8pm.

Our duck race and cross country

Congratulations to our junior

challenge has been refixed for Sun-

team, and to Ian, Carl and Robbie,

day, October 30 at 2pm at Kinsella’s

on a fabulous achievement on gain-

Bridge.

The U-12 girls beat St Anne’s in

their 2010 league on Sunday, Octo-

their championship semi-final; best

ber 30 in Kettle’s Hotel; all members

of luck in the final and well done to

are welcome to come along and cel-

all.

ebrate the success of these teams.

Best of luck to our minor team who play Clontarf this Sunday at 11am in

Committee meeting this Thursday at 8pm in Kettles Hotel.

ST FINIAN’S THE intermediate football team

at our bag-packing in SuperValu at

play Scoil Ui Chonaill in the replay

the weekend. Also to the adults who

of the last sixteen of the champi-

helped with the lotto sales.

onship on Saturday, October 22.

Our Mothers4Gaelic had an enjoy-

Venue is Lawless Park and throw–in

able day in Naomh Mearnog on Sat-

at 3pm. Let’s get the young teams

urday. Beaten only by one point in

out to support.

game one, and one goal in game two,

The minor football team are in

they played a blinder in game three

action on Sunday morning in the

and stormed to victory. Well done,

Championship away to St Pat’s,

everyone.

Donabate

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 5,

Thanks to our U-14 and U-16 juve-

7, 16 and 24. There was no winner.;

nile teams, and our U-14 Camogie

€50winners were Ken Clarke and

team, who manned the check outs

Darren Laird.

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GazetteSPORT

Fingallians’ senior footballers are uncertain over which league or championship fixture they are due to be playing this weekend

OCTOBER 20, 2011

Fins’ footballers face fixture fiasco Senior side double-booked in league and championship in ties that will determine their fate in both contests STEPHEN FINDLATER swordssport@gazettegroup.com

FINGALLIANS’ boss Dan Davern has been left in limbo this week as mixed messages from the county board have left him wondering which one of two huge games his senior footballers will face this weekend.

Fins have been scheduled to play O’Toole’s in a vital AFL2 tie on Saturday at 4.30pm, a tie which will have a huge bearing on whether they reach the play-offs.

But they were drawn last Sunday to play St Jude’s in the championship relegation matches, fixtures which were also penciled in for the coming weekend.

As such, Davern told GazetteSport he is not sure which big game his side will be facing, but knows that both will be big moments in the Lawless Park side’s season.

“It’s a bit up in the air at the moment. We’re waiting for clarification from the county board. We can

only really go with what’s on the fixture list and that’s O’Tooles. From my point of view, I’m conscious that championship games are going ahead this weekend.”

Currently, Fins occupy the fourth of four play-off spots, with the Ayrfield side one notch higher but any one of four sides could still pip them to that place in the last two rounds of matches.

It makes it a huge game: “In relation to the table, it’s a big clash. We’re on similar enough points and both vying from a playoff place and promotion so I’ve no doubt they’ll be up for it; I just hope our boys are as well and can apply themselves as we know they can.

“O’Toole’s are a good, dogged side. They are like Ronseal, they do exactly what it says on the tin and we know exactly what we’re going to get from them.

They’ll fight for every ball, tackle hard – they play a physical game but move the ball well. But we’re not really thinking about them at the moment. We’re focusing in on ourselves. If we look at our game plan, then the result should look after itself.”

It will be their first league game since beating play-off rivals Round Towers back in mid-August.

They have since been waiting for Paul Flynn to come back from his All-Ireland exploits as well as the completion of other championship issues.

As such, Fins’ game with Mary’s has been their sole competitive tie for two months, making preparations for this next series of games tricky.

Facing Jude’s can also be seen as a bum deal, the AFL1 contenders somehow finding themselves in the relegation battle in the SFC as Davern attests.

“I should really say it doesn’t matter who we play as long as we apply ourselves but, being brutally honest, of course Jude’s is the one to avoid. They’re fourth in division one and were in the championship final a couple of years ago and are a very good side. They’ve been unlucky in the championship draw, facing some of the big guns.

“Looking at it, I would have liked to get one of the division two teams but that is the standard we are hoping to play next year and the level we aspire to.”