Swords GAZET TE FREE
‘Middleton’s wedding makeup was classy and timeless’ FEATURE: P15. RECYCLE THIS COPY. KEEP DUBLIN TIDY.
YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER
INSIDE: Parroting on about a refurbished, pretty pet store: P8
Football: Local ladies aiming for Division 2 crown Page 32
Sports Awards: Esteemed April winners are announced Page 29
ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ......................8 MOTORS ........................18 BUSINESS ................... 20 TRAVEL......................... 23 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26
May 5, 2011
A SHARP DESIGN: Local fashion student in Gillette contest final: P7
Gardai probe attack on park jogger Q MIMI MURRAY
A MAJOR investigation is under way by Swords Gardai following an attack on a woman in her mid-twenties in the Rivervalley Park on the Bank Holiday Monday. T he woman, who had been jogging in the park, was attacked at approximately 11.25am. T he attacker, who is described as being in his early 20s, ran off when a passer-by
heard the woman scream and came to her assistance. Gardai said the woman and passer-by could give a very good description of the man. The attacker is described as being 5’6” in height, and was wearing a navy top with “eircom” written across it. He also had a distinctive star shaved into the back of his head. Full Story on Page 3
Steele-ing himself: Daniel is ready for more GAA training DANIEL Steele showed some iron
resolve when he joined lots of other Rivervalley children for a three-day Easter GAA camp at St Finian’s club, determined to improve his skills. With 16 coaches on hand to train the
children, there were lots of great games and challenging tasks for the participants. Rounding off the camp, medals were presented to everyone, leaving Daniel, and friends, feeling very happy. Full Gallery on Page 9
2 SWORDS GAZETTE 5 May 2011
COMMUNITY
TRANSPORT: COMMUTERS
Gardai try to quell abduction fears
Expanded service for Swords Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com
Top talent: Chloe wins a bronze medal at the ITB World Championship in New Zealand CONGRATULATIONS to Swords local Chloe Aboud, who not only won a World Bronze Medal for Taekwon-do at the ITB World Championships held in New Zealand recently, but over the weekend she enjoyed another great tournament, as she was named Viking Cup 2011 Champion in Gold sparring and Silver patterns. This is a fantastic achievement for 15-year-old Chloe, and is just reward for an extremely dedicated and talented athlete. Chloe has also shown what a caring person she is by shaving her long black hair to help those with cancer.
A NEW expanded commuter ser vice from Swords to Dublin City Centre was launched on Tuesday by the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Leo Varadkar TD. T h e n e w Swo r d s Express offers 75 services each way on weekdays, from early morning commuter peaks until late evenings. At peak time, the service takes 35 minutes from Swords centre. It operates via the Port Tunnel and terminates at Tara Street station. The express is independently run, without State subvention, and offers one-way tickets at €3 off peak or €2 for under 16s. Monthly and annual tickets under the Revenue’s tax-saver scheme are available, which allows a significant saving on tax. Transport Minister Leo Varadkar said the revamped and expanded service offers greater choice for commuters and transport users. “I am delighted to launch this expanded service in a growing part of north Dublin. “T he Government wants to promote public transport, and I favour more diversity in the provision of services. Commuters will particularly welcome a wider range of options for travelling into the city.” Swords Express managing director, Antoin O Lachtnain, said: “We
have been running an express service from Swords since 2007. “Since then I have been anxious to expand the route to better serve Swords, which is, after all, Ireland’s largest town. Now we have received the go-ahead to expand and we are very pleased to launch a revamped and extended service for our loyal customers and those discovering Swords Express for the first time. “Family and commuter transport costs have risen significantly in recent months. “We all know how much it costs to fill the family car. Factor in depreciation, insurance and servicing and using a reliable, punctual, costefficient bus makes absolute sense.” Swords Express offers all-seater services in modern, comfortable coaches from Swords M a n o r, A p p l e wo o d , Pavilions, Forest Road, Airside and Holywell to Tara Street station commencing at 6.15am. Services from city centre commence daily at 7.15 am from Eden Quay. The company offers service on weekends and bank holidays. Labour councillor, Tom Kelleher said he wished Dublin Bus were providing a similar service but said that they were not and that locals were delighted with Swords Express’s expanded service. “I have spoken to a lot of younger people and they are thrilled. They think it’s a great service and it is filling a vacuum,” he said.
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GARDAI have moved to calm fears among parents about reported abductions in the Swords area this week. A national newspaper said there had been four attempted abductions in the area in the past week but a senior Garda spokesperson in Swords said this was completely inaccurate. “It is wrong to categorise these as attempted abductions,” he said. However, he did say there had been four inappropriate approaches towards minors in the last month. “We are investigating the matter and at this stage no links have been identified between any of these.” The paper also reported that three of the attempts had been made in the Rivervalley area, but the Garda spokesperson said this was also inaccurate. He said that each of the reports had come from completely different locations. He added that the descriptions given in each of the reported cases were different and they were not identifying a link at present. “White vans”, “blue cars”, “old and young men” have all been used to describe the individuals, the Garda spokesperson said. “It does not seem to be one person. Anyone who finds themselves threatened should report it to us and young people should not be left unattended. “On the flip side, it is important that people looking for directions don’t stop and ask kids for directions,” he said.
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5 May 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 3
CRIME Gardai appeal for witnesses after daylight assault
Bank holiday attack on woman in Rivervalley Park Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com
A WOMAN in her mid-twenties was assaulted in Rivervalley Park on Bank Holiday Monday, a senior Garda has told the Gazette. Gardai in Swords are appealing for witnesses to the assault to come
forward with any information that they may have. The woman was out running in the park when she was attacked at around 11.25am. The attacker, who is described as being in his early twenties, ran off when a passer by heard the woman scream and came to her assistance. Gardai said the woman and passer-
by could give a very good description of the man. He is described as being 5ft 6 inches in height and was wearing a navy top with Eircom written across it. He was wearing white shorts with a stripe down the sides and white runners. He is described as being fit and athletic looking and was also clean-
shaven with an oval-shaped face. He also had a distinctive star shaved into the back of his head. Gardai said the attacker ran off in the direction of the Lord Mayor’s pub. The woman did not need hospitalisation, the Garda said. “We would advise people to be vigilant and to go to the park at times
when it is busy rather than quiet. “The investigation is ongoing and we are looking for the public’s assistance,” he said. He added that bike patrols will be in the vicinity of the park over the summer months. Anyone with information should contact Swords Garda station on 01 666 4700.
TRANSPORT: REILLY TO FIGHT FOR METRO
Varadkar denies shelving Metro in favour of DART Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com
METRO North has not been shelved in favour of a new DART line to Dublin airport, Minister for Transport, Leo Va r a d k a r s a i d t h i s week. Minister Varadkar was rejecting claims made in the national media this week that the Government had scrapped the €2.5bn rail project and would instead build a DART line to the airport costing just €300m. “A c o m p r e h e n sive spending review is being carried out between now and September and, at the end of that, the Government will have a new National Development Plan running between 2012 and 2017. “That will contain all the transport projects that we consider to be affordable and achievable in that period. No decisions have been made at this stage and ever y thing is under consideration. “We’re looking at Metro Nor th, DART Underground and linking up the Luas in town and the possibility of a Dart to the airport. “All those projects are going to be looked at and weighed up.” He said cost and affordability are key. “We don’t have the money we had in the past, in fact we don’t
even have the money we thought we had six months ago. “That process is only starting now and won’t be completed till September,” he said. Minister for Health and Dublin North TD, James Reilly, who was in Swords with Min--------------------------
‘We’re looking at Metro North, Dart Underground and linking up the Luas in town and the possibility of a Dart to the airport. All those projects are going to be looked at and weighed up’ --------------------------
Minister for Transport, Leo Varadkar
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ister Varadkar, said he remains 100% behind the project and will continue to fight for it at Cabinet. “It is terribly important in terms of the development of Dublin North and, indeed, the city,” he said.
In terms of the number of jobs that it will create he said: “This is part of our policy of developing new and meaningful jobs and connecting the airport to Fingal and connecting Fingal to the city. “The eastern corridor to Belfast – that is the economic engine of this country and that engine needs to be well-oiled, and the Metro will be an integral part of that, in my view.” He said that he has expressed those views and will continue to do so at Cabinet. When asked about r u n n i n g t h e DA R T line to the airport and forgetting about Metro North, he said: “I think it would be retrograde, it’s about connecting Fingal to the city. “I will be fighting hard for this project because I think it means so much to the north city and the north county and the business case is irrefutable – for every euro spent two euros will be made.” Asked if he is confident about the delivery of Metro, he said: “Where there are issues around PPPs, there are other sources of finance around the world. “Now is the time to plan for the future and put ourselves in a position for the upturn of the economy.”
Robbie Byrne and Roger Hartford, of Essence Bistro, having been running a series of theme nights
FOOD: NEW INITIATIVE PROVES A HIT IN LOCAL BISTRO
Essence wine dining going down a treat Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com
ESSENCE Bistro has introduced a wine dinner to the restaurant that kicked off with a Frenchthemed night recently. Next up is Italian night on May 9, with lots of authentic Italian treats and some delicious wine to accompany each course. Owner Robbie Byrne says the French night went down a treat with regulars. “We had a champagne reception and then the first course was frog’s legs with garlic and parsley. People were a bit funny about it at first, but once they had tasted them they devoured them.
“It was a small course and people were saying we should have had more of them. “Sole Bon Femme was the second course, which is a classical French dish. We then had a main course of Beef Bourguinon. “We had a fillet of beef with Bourguignon garnish so it was a twist on the classic dish. Tarte au Citron was our dessert. “It cost €50 for the four courses and five wines, the champagne to start and a wine with each course. We had someone from the wine supplier and in between each course she explained the wines, so it was like a proper wine tasting as well. “It’s like a wine club, so
you are learning something as well.” For the May wine dinner, Robbie promises some delicious food from all over Italy. “I am fairly sure about the menu. I will be doing a starter, a fish course, a main and dessert. We have a rep from Liberty wine who will accompany each wine with the particular course. We had a lot of cancellations for the first one because it was on the day after Mother’s Day and people forgot about that so we are being careful with the date this time.” Robbie says the restaurant is doing quite well so far. “It’s not so bad, we have busy weeks and
quiet weeks. We opened near the end of October and the snow at Christmas didn’t help. We lost about 60% of our customers then.” Wine Dinners is another innovative way to get people through the door, he says. “€50 is a fair price and it’s about building up business. We had a good few regulars in and everyone loved it. I love it and I always dreamed of opening my own place. I’m living the dream seven days a week, 15 hours a day. It has to be done, especially at the start,” he says. For more information on the next wine dinner call 01 8956811 or email reservations@essencebistro.com.
4 SWORDS GAZETTE 5 May 2011
PLAN: PREVENTING WASTE CAMP Almost 200 attend the Rivervalley GAA camp THROUGH COMPOSTING
Getting your hands dirty A MASTER composter programme has been launched by Fingal County Council and Dublin City Council with funding from the EPA. Master composters are volunteers who promote food and garden waste prevention and encourage people to compost at home. All of this saves money while improving the environment. Edwina Dunford, environmental awareness officer says: “We are very excited to be working with the EPA and Dublin City Council on this exciting new action-packed handson training programme.” The group are looking for 30 volunteers to join them for the exciting new initiative, and the training takes place over four
evening workshops and three weekend field days. After this, people will learn about how waste is managed, how to prevent garden and food waste and how to compost using at least six different composting systems. As a part of the training, volunteers build a home composting demonstration site that can be used to show people the methods of composting and how to use compost in the garden. All volunteers completing the training will receive a free composting bin and pitch fork. To book a place, contact Edwina Dunford, Environmental Awareness Officer with Fingal County Council at 01 890 5614.
GAA enthusiasts Senan Crosbie, John Sylvester and Callum Evers pick up their medals and trophies at the end of St Finian’s Easter camp
Kicking and passing the time this Easter MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com
ALMOST 200 kids from Rivervalley took part in an Easter camp organised by St Finian’s GAA club last week. In lovely sunshine, kids aged from four to 13 years took part in the three-day camp that helped hone their football skills. Local games’ promotional officer James Devlin said he could see potential in every child that took part over the week. “I try to promote Gaelic games in the Holy Family junior and senior schools in Rivervalley. That has nearly 1,200 kids. I also do the Holywell Educate Together School that opened in September. It only has 25 kids, but we still give that a lot of concentration, due to the fact it’s a massively expanding area. “We have 16 coaches taking part, and they are all fully trained in GAA courses, they are Garda vetted and they all play for the club, and are locals as well. There are also a few of the local primary teachers involved.”
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‘Each day we choose a different skill - catching, kicking, hand-passes, kickpassing or scoring. Each day there is a different skill that they practise. In the afternoon we bring it in to a game situation’ -----------------------------------------------------------------------
James Devlin, local games promotional officer
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James says this is the biggest camp they have held so far. “Previously to this, we had an Easter camp last year with 127 kids involved; 198 is a drastic improvement. I think it is down to the work we are doing in the schools. “Thanks to our local Centra in Rivervalley, we kept the cost down. They have come on board as camp sponsors and they provide the kids with lunch on the day, almost 200 packed lunches. This consists of a choice of water, milk or juice and a ham, cheese or turkey roll along with a piece of fruit. We also give them a new hoodie on the way home. The total cost to
the parent is €30 for one child, €50 for two and €70 for three. It is great value for money.” James explains what they teach children over the three days. “Each day we choose a different skill - catching, kicking, hand-passes, kick-passing or scoring. Each day there is a different skill that they practise. In the afternoon we bring it into a game situation. Everything we do with the kids is game-based, and it is about maximum participation.” He says camps like this are “massively important” for kids. “There is so much for the kids to do and so much for them not
to do around here, so it’s a catch 22. The majority of the kids are playing with the club on teams, and the few that aren’t are looking to get involved. For the two weeks kids are off, the first week is OK, but the second week, a bit of boredom sets in and I think something like this is vital for them. “Each child got a presentation of a medal for participation, and we also awarded kids for the most improved player and the player of the group. It’s great for community spirit because there are parents coming up and meeting others. Some parts of Rivervalley are really old and some are brand new. It’s great that they are trying to integrate their kids into the local clubs,” he says. During the summer, St Finian’s will have more camps, specialising in hurling, football or a mix of both. “We emphasise on the games and enjoyment, not a lot of the kids like football, but they like the fun games. If they like the enjoyment of coming up, they will want to keep coming back,” he says. Full gallery on Page 9
5 May 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 5
FINGAL: BOARD ELECTS MEMBERS FOR 2011
ARTS
Arts project launch
New faces for toursim Q MIMI MURRAY swords@gazettegroup.com
IN PREPARATION for a new year of activity, the Board of Fingal Tourism recently elected its officers for the coming year. Tony Lambert, from Fingal Dublin Chamber, was re-elected chairman, Oisin Geoghegan, from Fingal County Enterprise Board, was elected vice-chairman while Jack Kinane, from Howth Sutton Baldoyle Chamber of Chamber, was elected treasurer.
Board member PJ Howell, from Fingal County Council, was elected secretary. Fingal tourism manager, Elaine O’Sullivan, was also coopted onto the board. They join board members, Mayor Ken Farrell, Cllr David O’Connor, Cllr Peter Coyle and
Kevin Halpenny from Fingal County Council; Michael Dawson from the The Gift Voucher Shop; Matthew Ryan from the Grand Hotel, Malahide; Terry McCoy from the Red Bank House and Restaurant, Skerries; Michael Healy, of Sutton Golf Club; Guy Thompson, of Castleknock Hotel and Country Club; Cormac O’Connell, from DAA, and Brian Sinclair of Aqua Technologies. “Fingal Tourism is looking forward to continuing to promote Fingal as a great destination for tourists from home and abroad, as well as supporting local tourism initiatives throughout the region in the year ahead,” chairman Tony Lambert said. For all tourist information in Fingal, visit www. fingaldublin.ie
Barretstown campaign: Karl shows ROG a thing or two about milking the spotlight SWORDS local Karl Sheppard, age 11, is pictured with Irish Rugby International, Ronan O’Gara, enjoying a cool glass of Avonmore milk at the launch of the 2011 Avonmore Big Picnic for Barretstown campaign. The campaign aims to encourage everyone across the country to have a picnic this
summer and raise much-needed funds for children affected by cancer. Avonmore will match every €1 raised by consumers’ picnics in 2011. For more details, pick up an Avonmore milk carton in any local shop or visit www. BigPicnic.ie.
THE Fingal County Council Arts office has announced the launch of the Public Art project, O’Machine, O’Machine: The Measure and Three Thousand and Nine by Brian Duggan, which will take place at the Sillogue Water Tower on Thursday, May 5, at 2pm. A screening featuring the artist and the director of the Centre for Contemporary Art, Glasgow, will take place on Wednesday, May 11, at 7pm, Draiocht, Blanchardstown. Tickets for both events are free, but must be booked through Fingal Arts Office. Additional free daily screenings of The Measure will take place at Draiocht, Blanchardstown, May 9 to 13 from. For tickets, contact Caroline Cowley, Fingal Arts Office, tel 01 870 8449, or email caroline. c ow l e y @ f i n g a l c o c o . ie, www.fingalarts.ie or www.brianduggan.net
6 SWORDS GAZETTE 5 May 2011
COURTS Debit card fraud scheme hit Swords and Malahide banks
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Play time: Wii takes its motion controller to the next level
GAMING PAGE 14
Dublin’s Four Courts
Skimmer scammer’s sentence suspended A ROMANIAN, who stole cash using skimmed debit cards four years ago after his dry-lining business failed, has received an 18 months suspended sentence. Andrei Nechifor (29) told gardai he had underquoted a dry-lining job and was short €4,000 after the cost of materials and employee wages when he met a fellow Romanian who loaned him cash and told him there were “easier ways to make money”. Garda Dave O’Leary revealed that this other man had been a key player in a large-scale skimming operation at the time.
Bank Nechifor, of Villa Paul Road, Cabra, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to misappropriating €450 from a Malahide Bank of Ireland on February 10, 2007; €450 from a Swords BOI on February 13; €117 from a Clontarf supermarket and €116 from a Greendale Centra in Kilbarrack, both on February 14, 2007. He told Mr Sean Guerin BL, prosecuting, that Nechifor’s first victim tried to take cash from his account on February 14, 2007 but was informed he had reached his withdrawal limit in two earlier transactions. The man told gardai the only suspicious thing he could recall was the “overfamiliar and enthusiastic” behaviour of a waiter at an Italian restaurant in Donabate
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The victim told gardai of ‘overfamiliar and enthusiastic’ behaviour of a waiter at an Italian restaurant --------------------------
who had taken his card to the counter when he was paying for his meal. The second victim, whose card details were used to purchase groceries, told gardai she had been to the same restaurant and a waiter had taken her card when she was paying her bill. Gda O’Leary told Mr Guerin that the restaurant owner subsequently revealed that a man had come to the premises looking for a waiting job but only worked about two weeks because he had failed to provide necessary documentation. The owner tracked down a customer who had photos of the waiter and these matched the person on CCTV footage of the bank withdrawals and grocery purchases. Gda O’Lear y said Nechifor was nominated as a suspect and arrested in Dundalk, Co Louth, in September 2009. He denied ever working at the restaurant but eventually pleaded guilty to the offences. He has three previous convictions, including possessing a false credit
card in 2007 and 2011. Gda O’Leary agreed with Mr Michael Bowman BL, defending, that the fraud conviction in 2011 was for a forged credit card found in his client’s possession during the investigation for the current case. The garda agreed that this card had never been used and that Nechifor’s victims had been fully refunded by the financial institutions. He further accepted that Nechifor got involved in the scam through the other Romanian man who had told him there were “easier ways of making money.” Mr Bowman submitted that his client had come to Ireland from eastern Romania in 2000, that both his parents worked as teachers and that he had worked in construction and in restaurants until he started a drylining enterprise with six employees.
Ill-judged Counsel submitted to Judge Yvonne Murphy that Nechifor had “illjudged” the offer of help from the Romanian man when he found himself in financial difficulty. Mr Bowman said his client has been employed with Dominos Pizzas for nine months, is in a stable relationship and had €1,200 in court as compensation. Judge Murphy suspended the sentence in full and directed that the €1,200 be divided proportionately between the various financial institutions.
5 May 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 7
WEEE Over 400 Fingal locals contribute the equivalent of 1,916 televisions
Spirit of spring cleaning generates 15 tonnes of local waste Q MIMI MURRAY
THE CONCEPT of the Spring Clean is alive and well in Fingal, with a total of 15 tonnes of electrical waste and waste batteries being recycled at two ERP Be Free Recycling events both in nearby IKEA and Blanchardstown on April 15 and 16. Over 400 people made the journey on the recycling days to contribute to the huge amount recycled, which is the equivalent of 1,916 televisions.
Homeowners recycled scores of large electrical appliances, including washing machines and televisions, as well as smaller electrical equipment like kettles, hairdryers, toasters and computers. The “Be Free” Recycling Days, which ran in conjunction with Fingal County Council, gave householders the opportunity to recycle unwanted electrical equipment and waste batteries, free of charge. Martin Tobin, CEO of ERP Ireland said: “Fingal residents collected an
impressive 2,000 tonnes of WEEE in total last year and were victorious in the 2010 Recycling Championship. “We are extremely pleased that the people of Fingal spring cleaned their homes and turned out in force at the recycling days. As part of the recycling process, a lot of the materials recycled in Fingal at our Be Free days can be used in the redevelopment of new products, which means that part of your old fridge could well be used to make a new one!”
Electronic waste is the fastestgrowing waste stream in the developed world and ERP is encouraging the people of Fingal to keep up their good work in responsible recycling, to ultimately divert their electronic waste and batteries from Fingal’s landfills. Those who were unable to make it to the ERP “Be Free” Recycling Days can recycle their household e-waste and waste batteries for free at local amenity sites in Coolmine Recycling Centre, Clonsilla and The Esturary
DESIGNER: LOCAL IN FINAL FOUR OF GILETTE COMPETITION
Jessica’s cuttingedge look Q MIMI MURRAY
swords@gazettegroup.com
STUDENT fashion designer, Jessica Lou from Swords has been named as one of the four finalists in the 2011 Gillette Venus Dress of Your Dreams Competition. Jessica, along with other student fashion designers from art colleges around the country, was asked by Gillette to showcase her talent. This year, fashion design students were asked to choose from three of the latest Gillette Venus razors and advised to create a show-stopping dress that Gillette Venus Ambassador and Hollywood star, Jennifer Lopez, might wear. The dream dress should show off the beauty of a woman’s legs and incorporate the colour scheme of the chosen razor. Jessica, aged 19, moved to Dublin from Hong Kong five years ago and is in the final year of her fashion degree course in Griffith College Dublin. She is inspired by the work of Alexander
FastNews
Getting to grips with English in the workplace
McQueen because of his creative, imaginative, forward-looking and symbolic designs. Jessica’s dress design combines materials like geometrical leather pieces, soft silk, over 2,500 Swarovski crystals and torn fabrics. --------------------------
Jessica is inspired by the work of Alexander McQueen --------------------------
Gillette Venus has given all four finalists a bursary to create their dress from the sketches and swatches of material submitted. The overall winner will be chosen on May 17, 2011 in Dublin. The winner will not only have the opportunity to launch their fashion career, but will win a cash prize, appear on national television and have their dress modelled in a national photocall by a top model, amongst other possible media opportunities.
Recycling Centre, Swords, Co. Dulbin Those buying new electronic items can also return their old items free of charge at electrical retail outlets (as long as the items are of equivalent type) and used batteries can be recycled for free at your local retailer selling similar batteries. For full information on this day, and other locations around Ireland, simply log onto www.befreewitherp.ie.
Swords local, Jessica, is one of the budding designers asked to showcase work
A NEW online Business English course has been released from Pitman Training Swords due to massive demand. Business English is for anyone whose first language isn’t English and will get people to the standard needed to work in an office or other business. Maria Lalor, MD of Pitman Training Swords, said: “We have had people from more than 20 different countries through the centre, learning various courses. This new course is ideal for them, whether they are doing other training with us or not. Lots of highly skilled people come to this country and have to take very menial, low-paid jobs - either because they don’t have good enough speaking or writing skills for businesses, or just that they don’t have a qualification as proof of their ability. I’m delighted that this course will help them achieve those standards and they can get the jobs Maria Lalor they deserve.” The new online course can be studied anywhere with broadband internet access and is split into 50 lessons with lots of interactive practise exercises. Sound and video are used to create an enjoyable learning experience and learners get to read, listen, speak and write. In order to best prepare learners for work, specific topics are covered, including: Careers/Recruitment, the Service Industry, Wholesale and Retail and Communications. It can be completed in three months or less – depending on the amount of study put in – and has a guideline learning time of 50 hours. The course prepares learners for the University of Cambridge ESOL BULATS exam, which can also be taken at Pitman Training Swords. For further details call 01 8404075 or visit www.pitmantrainingswords.ie
www.gazettegroup.com All of your latest local news, sport, features and pictures are now just a click away
8 SWORDS GAZETTE 5 May 2011
ANIMALS Refurbished outlet in Kinsealy makes a splash
Who’s a pretty boy then? Lucky the Parrot poses with Cieron Rooney, of Kinsealy Pet Store. Pictures: Peter Doyle
Some great tails at popular pet store TEERING well clear of a curious tarantula, the Gazette was otherwise delighted to stick its beak into the newly refurbished Kinsealy Pet Store recently, where all manner of exotic creatures could be seen. alongside some perennial family favourites. Lovingly cared for snakes, spiders, lizards, carp, meerkats, rabbits and many, many more creatures were located all around the store; some of which were the
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owner’s pets, and not for sale, but all of which helped to show the love that the Irish have for pets in all their shapes, colours and sizes. Eric Crowley, who runs the pet store, told the Gazette about the store’s catering for pet lovers across the city, as well as discussing the store’s lesser-known work with St Joseph’s School for the Blind. The furry nice pet store certainly has some interesting tails ...
5 May 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 9
CHILDREN A GAA-rand time for all joining in at Rivervalley
Daniel Steele
Training
Fun for all at a camp
ITH a three-day Easter GAA camp at St Finian’s club to help hone their skills, it’s no wonder that almost 200 children from Rivervalley took part in the hugely popular event, underlining the huge interest in the GAA with local youngsters. With 16 coaches taking part, there was plenty of expertise on offer to help maximise the new skills – and the fun – for every child taking part, with the local Centra on board as camp sponsors. The camps were rounded off with medals presented to the delighted participants, as well as a number of trophies for some.
Adam and James Elder. Pictures: Conor O’Mearain
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Harvey Devir, centre, with Matthew and Conor Ryan
Adam Keogh
Senan Crosbie, John Sylvester and Callum Evers
Brian O’Sullivan and Keith Daly
Niamh and Aoife O’Sullivan
10 SWORDS GAZETTE 5 May 2011
EVENT The Crowne Plaza hosts Chamber Network Evening
Colm O’Maolmhuire and Mary Boland
Dave White and Keith Mooney
Social side of business
HE Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown was the venue for a recent Business After 6 Network Evening hosted jointly by the Fingal Dublin Chamber and D15 Chamber. The event gave Chamber members an opportunity to make new business contacts and socialise with other business people in a relaxed setting and catch up on topical and relevant issues for businesses in the area. Sean Weafer, of www.SeanWeafer. com, who is an international speaker, author, workshop leader and mentor, was the special guest speaker. Sean has worked for over 25 years in sales and leadership and his expertise is in training people in the psychological and emotional dynamics of sales and leadership and how to use them to develop compelling business relationships and referrals.
Mark Brennan, Fingal Skillsnet; Siobhan Moore, president, Fingal Dublin Chamber, David Donnelly, president, D15 Chamber, and Sean Weafer, speaker at the event
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Sara Farrell, Waterside House Hotel, and Tony Lambert, CEO Fingal Dublin Chamber
Edward Powell, Eugene Haines and John Lambert
Elaine Stratford, D15 Chamber, and Lil O’Breen, Fingal and North Dublin Skillsnet
Gary and Neill Lawlor with Conor McCabe
Julie Griffin and Damien Heaney
5 May 2011 GAZETTE 11
RETAIL Celebrations kick-off action-packed weekend
Carraig Donn’s new Dublin outlet LADIES fashion, jewellery, accessories and gifts retailer, Carraig Donn, will unveil its brand new store at Dun Laoghaire Shopping Centre, in Dublin, on Thursday, May 12, at 12 noon. The new store opening celebrations promises to kick-off an actionpacked weekend not to be missed. Carraig Donn has confirmed that they will have hundreds of special offers in-store to mark the event, along with goodie bags for the first 50 customers on the day. A FREE J’aime la Vie necklace worth €25 will also be given away with all purchases of €50 or more for the opening weekend!! The new store will showcase the best of Irish and international designer fashion, lifestyle giftware, accessories and jewellery. Carraig Donn will offer a boutique shopping experience with the purchasing power of a larger group. T he family-ow ned Irish company has relevant, high-fashion and contemporary collection focused on styling and price. Carraig Donn has become Ireland’s leading lifestyle retailer now with 22 stores nationwide showcasing irresistible fashions, jewellery and gifts. Carraig Donn champions a number of brands – their own label, J’aime la Vie, is seen alongside Vila, Amari, St. Martins and Peruzzi, to usher in every trend and silhouette of the season. All brands have
one thing in common – fantastic prices. The Star Buy of the collection has to be the J’aime la Vie Estelle dress retailing at only €59. The Estelle features one of this season’s hottest looks in crushed fabric. The J’aime la Vie Penny dress is a close second as the season’s star buy, retailing at only €69. I’m sure you’ll agree the Spring Summer 2011 collection is a dream for dress lovers. Carraig Donn caters for every need at a range of budgets making you look fantastic for all occasions, such as Communions, Confirmations and weddings. Knight & Day and Soul jewellery complete the look, with both contemporary and funky pieces. This winning formula extends to the gift and home departments, making Carraig Donn at Dun Laoghaire a destination store. Customers can enjoy prestigious leading labels, such as Newbridge Silverware, Genesis, Killarney Crystal, and many more as well as novelthemed lifestyle giftware to suit any budget for every occasion. 2011 promises to be a busy year for Carraig Donn with the company celebrating 40 years in retail, more new store openings in the Dublin area and online shopping launching next month! Last year, the Irish retail company opened a store at Fairgreen Shopping Centre, Carlow, as well as MacDonagh Junction, in Kilkenny, bringing the total number of new jobs
Magnum force: Join Georgia and take a break from the heat J’aime La Vie Penny Dress €69, available at Carraig Donn
created by the company in recent months to in excess of 70 in the southeast. Since its opening, Carraig Donn in MacDonagh Junction, has since gone on to win a
Top 5 Place in the annual Retail Excellence Ireland Store of the Year Awards in 2010. Join the opening party all this weekend in Carraig Donn at Dun
Laoghaire Shopping Centre, from 12noon on Thursday, May 12, or register your details online at www.carraigdonn.com to get the latest news, promotions and discounts.
GEORGIA Salpa is pictured in the “rainforest” for the launch of the delicious new Magnum Ghana ice cream, part of Magnum’s new Rainforest Alliance Certified™ Magnum Cocoa range. The new Magnum Ghana is made with specially selected cocoa beans sourced from Rainforest Alliance Certified™ farms in Ghana and is an exquisite blend of hazelnut ice cream and delicate milk chocolate sauce.
12 GAZETTE 5 May 2011
GazettePETS PETS Keeping Fido and Kitty cool and safe
Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA
THE FACTS: TAKE PRECAUTIONS TO KEEP YOUR PET SAFE IN THE SUMMER HEAT
T’S May and temperatures are rising, so, officially, we’re in the midst of summer and you know how we girlies love to get our bodies into shape for that all important bout of sunbathing. (I’ll let you into my body beautiful secret – I’ve added a salad to every meal. The weight should be dropping off any day now!) Ah, yes, roll on the aroma of the family barbecue and the frenzied dash to smother the kids with sun block – even though we know we’ll never see blue skies and searing sun for more than a few days at a time. But wait, did you forget something? What about Fido and Kitty? Did you know that hot weather can pose a real threat to your pets? Let me put this simply. Animals CANNOT tolerate extreme temperatures. So, as a responsible pet owner, you must make absolutely sure that when the sun does make an appearance, you’ve taken precautions to keep your pet safe.
I
Here are some tips to help you out:
Never leave your animal in a car. Pet owners should know the dangers of leaving any animal in a hot car – even for just a few minutes.
This particularly applies to dogs who love to travel in a car and it’s tempting to let them go to the supermarket with you, but don’t leave your dog inside, even with the windows open. Temperatures don’t have to be in the 30s for a car-bound dog to be in serious trouble. Even at much lower temperatures, even under a cloud-
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‘Temperatures in air-conditioned cars can reach the same temperature as outside within just five minutes of being turned off’ --------------------------
less sky, the humidity inside the car turns it into a sauna. Research has shown that if it’s a sunny 25 degrees, the temperature in a car, with the windows closed, rises rapidly in 30 minutes. In short, 25 to 40C+ in half an hour! Temperatures in airconditioned cars can reach the same temperature as outside within just five minutes of being turned off. This means, on a hot day, it takes a matter of
minutes for a dog to end up organ damaged or dead! If you must take your dog out in the car, make sure you have him well strapped in. Purchase a car safety harness for your dog. This is for your safety as much as his! They’re available in any good pet shop or from our Dublin SPCA gift shop. Cats should always be in pet carriers when travelling in the car. One small jolt in traffic can have a very sad result for an unsecured pet. If you’re forced to brake suddenly, an unsecured animal can be thrown forward, hitting you in the back of the head or neck, causing painful injuries to both you and your pet. Make sure the car window is open while driving – enough to give your animal plenty of ventilation. Don’t leave your dog in the car if you need to leave your vehicle. If your dog pants quickly, looks very tired or collapses, he could be suffering from heatstroke. Put him in a cool, shady spot and spray his body with cool water, or give him a cool (not cold) bath immediately. Never cool your dog so much that he/she begins to shiver. Let your dog drink small amounts of cool water. Contact a veterinary surgeon urgently
You must always remember that your dog has no sweat glands, which can affect them badly in hot weather. Be responsible, and remember some simple things to help your dog – or other pets – stay cool and well in summer.
for further advice as heatstroke can prove fatal. Be responsible
Leave your dog at home. Place his bed/kennel in a shaded area, and he will automatically go to it when he needs rest from the hot sun. Leave plenty of water and leave it in the shaded area. Check water bowls
regularly to make sure there’s plenty of fresh water available. Never exert your dog during hot weather. When walking your dog, remember there are areas and times during the day where temperatures soar. It makes sense to walk your dog in the early morning or late evening, when temperatures are
lower and the hot concrete won’t burn sensitive paws. Always take along water for yourself and your dog. Stop frequently to allow both of you to have a refreshing drink. Many domestic animals do not sweat to keep cool. Dogs have no sweat glands and can only lose heat by panting. Make sure they always have plenty of water to help them keep cool. Tip: Temperatures are at their highest during mid-day and 3pm. Avoid these times. Keep your pet groomed
Very important during hot weather. If your pet has long hair then that’s akin to you wearing a fur coat in 33C! Regular brushing helps remove the winter under-
coat and helps your pet regulate his body temperature. Apply sunscreen to pets with white tipped ears and noses. Tip: Children’s sunscreen, Factor 50+ is particularly good. Insects
Make sure your pet receives regular flea preventatives. And keep that first aid kit close by in case of bee and wasp stings. Water Safety
If your dog likes the water, he’ll instinctively want to swim during the hot weather so put a life jacket on him. Remember, even the healthiest of pets will suffer in extreme temperatures, so please take the above precautions. If you’d like more information log onto www. dspca.ie or email me at miriam.kerins@dspca.ie
5 May 2011 GAZETTE 13
YOUR STORY Taking to two wheels after winter
Top tips for riding safe this summer AS the evenings start to get brighter, and the cold snap has, hopefully, passed, we will be longing to get back to two wheels, perhaps after an absence of many months. But spare a thought for your bike. What effect has the winter break had on it? Has it been stored inside, warm and dry, or outside exposed to all sort of weather, engine lying idle, oil turning to sludge? Tyres sitting in the same unmoved position for months, the loss of air and the weight of the bike, playing their part in damage to the sidewalls. Rubber hoses can also crack and perish, so take a look at the water hoses, brake lines, etc. Chains can also become dry, causing kinks and tight spots, and brake pads can stick and cause problems. Moving parts that don’t move as freely as they should need attention, start with a thorough wash and clean, checking all parts as you go. Are all the lights working? Clutch, throttle, brakes, etc. If you do not have the skills to sort problems yourself, leave it to the experts to get your bike ready for the road again. OK, now the bike is sorted, what about you? Having not ridden your bike for a few months, it can take time for your skills to return to a safe level. Your awareness of what’s going on around you, and your reactions to the many hazards we face may be slow, it will take time and practise to be competent again Although the weather is improving, there are still plenty of hazards. It’s still possible to find frosty patches of road early in the morning and dazzling,
low sunlight, can still be a problem. It’s fantastic being able to get back out on the road, but riders who’ve not been out during the winter need to allow some time to get back up to speed. In your mind, you will remember how well you were riding at the end of last year. But, after a lay-off of a few months, you are not going to be at the same level, or as alert. Perhaps this would be a good time to get advice from an approved riding instructor, and gain confidence in your riding, learn to recognise the dangers, and become a safer and
more responsible motorcyclist. Perhaps this will be the year that you take the motorcycle riding test, or take that bike trip that you always wanted to do. Either way, with these new skills you could also qualify for a discount on your insurance cost; it may even save your life. Your insurance company will have a list of approved instructors in your area. Please note that anybody providing tuition for payment must be an RSA Approved Driving Instructor (ADI); see www.rsa.ie for a list of instructors in your area. Enjoy the summer and Ride Safe.
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Q TOM CARLETON Motorcycle riding instructor ADI
Interview: Jessica Alba shares her thoughts on the Fockers
Spare a thought for your bike’s condition after the cold winter months
ENTERTAINMENT PAGE 25
14 GAZETTE 5 May 2011
GazetteGAMING GAMING
Nintendo are soon to launch the Wii Play: Motion, the new version of the classic mini-games set which comes with a special red Wii Remote Plus
Xperia PLAY: the world’s first Playstationcertified smartphone SONY ERICSSON has announced that Xperia PLAY, the world’s first Playstationcertified Smartphone, is now available exclusively in The Carphone Warehouse stores nationwide. The game-changing Xperia PLAY, is the latest phone in Sony Ericsson’s Xperia range of Android-based smartphones and delivers the smartphone functionality that the most serious power users could need, teamed with the immersive gaming experience that any gamer would want. In portrait mode, the Android smartphone offers all the benefits that consumers have come to expect from Sony Ericsson’s existing range of Xperia smartphones, with best-in-class entertainment experiences, a great five-megapixel camera, a brilliant four-inch multi-touch screen and great social networking features. A new world
However, slide out the gaming control and users enter a new world of immersive mobile gaming. The slide-out game pad reveals a digital D pad, two analogue touch pads, two shoulder buttons and the four PlayStation icons: circle, cross, square and triangle. Qualcomm’s optimised Snapdragon processor with a 1Ghz CPU and embedded Adreno GPU graphics processor deliver silky smooth 60fps play-back 3D mobile gaming and Web browsing with minimal power consumption so Xperia PLAY users can enjoy long hours of battery life and game time. XperiaTM PLAY will run on Gingerbread (version 2.3), the latest version of Google’s Android platform. The Xperia PLAY will also be the first PlayStation Certified device. This means it will have access to PlayStation game content provided through the PlayStation Suite initiative, currently under development by Sony Computer Entertainment and due to launch later this calendar year.
A mini-game for all with Wii Play:Motion Q ROB HEIGH
NINTENDO’S Wii has become the ubiquitous and most popular games console in the world, and shortly, the Kyoto games “brain trust” are launching the Wii Play: Motion, the new version of the classic mini-games set that has launched so many gamers on their Wii mission. The new iteration comes with a special red Wii Remote Plus, the motion sensitive controller that started to be bundled with the consoles for the last year. Wii Remote Plus combines
the original Wii Remote controller with the precision of the Wii MotionPlus accessory – to deliver great value, precise motion control and immersive social fun that anyone in the household can pick up. As you make your way through the 12 mini-games, which have multiple game modes for added depth to gameplay, see every swing, tilt, hit and spin of your Wii Remote Plus come to life, as it becomes faithfully replicated on your TV screen with exacting precision. From Treasure Twirl where the Wii Remote Plus acts
as a “winch” to collect deep-sea treasure, to Cone Zone – where you tilt the Wii Remote Plus in the correct position to balance ice cream within a giant waffle cone and stop it from falling, whilst extra scoops are being added – there’s a mini-game for everyone to enjoy. Each of the 12 mini-games included can be played in single player mode, yet, if you fancy a different experience and want to get your friends and family involved, then the multiple game modes of a selection of Wii Play: Motion mini-games allow for up
to three other people to join in on the fun, ensuring your game play experience is always a truly unique one. For example, in the mini-game Skip Skimmer, where you can skip stones along a lake, there is a Score Mode in which up to four players take it in turn to skip stones through a series of rings with the aim of getting to the target at the end. By strategically angling the Wii Remote Plus you can compete against your friends to get the highest score in order to win the game. Wii Play: Motion is released on June 24.
PlayStation 3 sales reach 50 million SALES of PlayStation Move motion controller for PlayStation 3 (PS3) has surpassed eight million units worldwide, accelerating the expansion of the PS3 Platform. Sony Computer Entertainment Inc (SCE) has announced that the cumulative sales of the PS3 computer entertainment system reached a milestone of 50 million units worldwide, as of March 29, 2011. SCE also announced that PlayStation Move sales surpassed eight million units worldwide as of April 3, demonstrating continued growth and momentum of the PS3 platform. The PS3 system, equipped with futureproof, cutting–edge technologies, including the powerful Cell Broadband Engine
and RSX processors, as well as the Blu-ray disc player and HDMI, has delivered users with high-definition and high-quality entertainment experience since its launch in November 2006. The PS3 system continues to evolve and enhance the user experience through new features and services delivered via software updates. Communication
With the introduction of PS3, SCE launched PlayStation Network service, which now has more than 75 million registered accounts and operates in 59 countries and regions around the world. PlayStation Network supports free community-centric
online gameplay and communication tools such as PlayStation Home, and offers vast downloadable digital content through the PlayStation Store. SCE launched PlayStation Move in September 2010 for North America, Europe/ PAL territories and in Asia, and in October 2010 for Japan, to deliver a new entertainment experience across all categories of games, from casual to immersive. The PlayStation Move motion controller is used in combination with the PlayStation Eye camera to detect the precise movement, angle, and absolute position in 3D space of the user, thereby allowing users to intuitively play as if they are within the game.
5 May 2011 GAZETTE 15
GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY
Edited by Dawn Love
Get the Kate look for your big day ... DAWN LOVE
SHE’S now one of the most photographed women in the world, and while her legendary tresses are styled at London hairdresser Richard Ward’s salon, Kate Middleton showed her independent streak by doing her own make-up for the big day. With most brides on an economy drive Kate also showed that you don’t need a make-up artist to achieve the perfect bridal look. Just days before she tied the knot with Prince William last Friday, the willowy brunette was spotted shopping at a Lancome make-up counter. A true classic skincare and make-up brand, Kate stocked up on several products last week, including Hydra Zen Neurocalm™ Soothing Anti-Stress Moisturising Cream, €50.50; Lancôme Hypnose Mascara in Black, €25.50 and Lancôme Artliner €27.00. Lancome’s national
make-up artist says Benjamin Rousseau, Kate’s everyday make-up is natural, understated and very pretty - and this didn’t change very much for her wedding day. “It's really what i expected - subtle yet enhances and highlights everything that's most beautiful about her face, especially her eyes, which has always been her signature. “As you would expect her skin was glowing, with a f lawless light radiant foundation. As we know, she wears Lancome, I wouldn’t be at all surprised if she was wearing Lancome’s no1 Bridal foundation Teint Miracle, which allows light from the skin to be reflected out. “Shades 01 and 03 contain slightly yellow tones, which absorb light from flash photography, neutralising her complextion ensuring it is smooth and looks flawless. “I love the way she has combined subtle, pinky, blush tones - really to give her a beautiful bridal flush, and she applied
these on the apples of her cheeks, sweeping up to fantastic cheekbones. “This also really complemented her chic, natural hair that she wore part up and part down with lovely curl at the back, but away from her face,” says Rousseau.
Eyes “I LOVE that Kate kept to her usual eye liner –it’s her trademark and suits her perfectly. All she has done is soften the look by blending it well into her lash line and left it strong on the lower part.
Lips “KATE went for a subtle, natural nude pink colour – it’s really an enhancement of her natural lip, but will always look classic and pretty no matter what the era, so photographs won't look dated. Over all it is the ultimate bridal make up and enhancement of her natural style and, applied with such skill, it makes me wonder if she really did it herself,” he said.
The new Duchess of Cambridge used her own selection of products to achieve a fresh and natural look for the Royal Wedding. Hydra Zen Neurocalm Soothing Anti-stress Moisturising Cream, Lancôme Hypnose Mascara and Lancôme Artliner
Become a bronze beauty with some serious summer sun tips AS Ireland basked in glorious sunshine last week it was time to get the pins out. But if we’re all honest about it, after months hidden away during the winter an Irish girl’s legs are likely to be a distinctly pasty shade of pale. But help is at hand with top selftanning brand, He-Shi. And to make it even easier this popular brand has just introduced their new Discovery Kit that contains 50ml travel sizes of all its products. Ideal for weekends away, a business trip overnighter, or simply for
your handbag, the new kit is priced at €21.25, and contains three 50ml products, including the He-Shi Exfoliating Bodywash to help prepare the skin first, the He-Shi Express Liquid Tan and for those who want to start off gradually this summer, the kit also contains the HeShi Day to Day Gradual Tan. The He-Shi Miniature Tanning
Mitt is also included for perfect application. The Discovery kit’s three-step process ensures your exfoliation, application and aftercare are always as good as you expect, wherever you are! This compact and conveniently-sized tanning kit is the ideal solution for the ultimate glowing tan. He-Shi’s products are designed especially for Irish skin tones, helping create the
most kissable complexion for enviably glowing skin. The He-Shi Discovery Kit comes in a stylish transparent travel bag finished with a white trim, which can be reused to store all of your tanning and beauty products again and again! He-Shi products are available from selected department stores, including Brown Thomas, salons and day spas. For your nearest stockist of He-Shi, contact Euro Products on T: +44 (0) 28 9044 9744 or www.europroducts.co.uk
16 GAZETTE 5 May 2011
SNAPSHOT The stories of the day GAZETTE COMMENT
Getting outdoors safely this summer
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OW that the winter is well and truly over, it is time to look forward to getting outside in the sunshine and enjoying as much activity as possible. Every opportunity to enjoy the wealth of local amenities across Dublin must be taken – from the incredible public parks and cycle routes, to the Capital’s enviable choice of high-ranking beaches and swimming spots, we are truly spoilt for choice. It goes without saying, that, in order to enjoy these facilities, those using them must do so responsibly. There is nothing worse than stepping through empty crisp packets and plastic, or worse, glass bottles – either at the beach or in our local parks. Dublin’s local councils must be commended for the lengths they go to in order to maintain these facilities, but they simply don’t have the resources to do everything.
Weather The fine weather also brings with it the wonderful ‘stretch in the evenings’, that sees many people walking running, cycling or just meeting friends a good deal later than they usually would. But it is so important that people
in the community remain vigilant, and keep an eye out for each other. Already in west Dublin in recent weeks, two young girls were reported missing. One later returned home, but the other has not yet done so, with gardai appealing for information. In the Swords area, there have been numerous worrying reports of “attempted abductions”. One national newspaper claimed that there had been as many as four in recent weeks. Local Gardai have moved to calm fears over the reports, saying that, while there have been inappropriate approaches to minors, it was wrong to categorise the incidents as attempted abductions. In the same area, gardai are appealing for witnesses of a daylight assault on a woman in her mid-twenties. This incident shows just how vigilant we have to be, as it happened at 11.25 am while the woman was out running. What must be remembered, is that our parks and public amenities are wonderful places that can be used often and safely. By simply being aware of our surroundings, and looking out for each other, there is no reason that we can’t make full use of them throughout the summer months.
GazetteContacts Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 6010240 Fax: 01 6010251 Managing Director: Liam Holland email: lholland@gazettegroup.com
General Manager: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com
Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com
Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com
News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com
Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com
Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com
Advertising Production: Anita Ward email: ads@gazettegroup.com
Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.
Dining, and donating, for a good cause... Maurice Murphy, Glenda Murphy, Vivienne Thompson and Ciaran Smith were at the Eatzen Restaurant Dine and Donate event in Ashbourne, where over €5,000 was raised for the Ireland Japan Association Earthquake Appeal
Making a movie date at midnight MIDNIGHT Movies, a new series of midnight cult cinema screenings, opens on Friday, May 13, with a screening of Russ Meyer’s classic film, Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill! Brought from the team behind Film Fatale, Midnight Movies will bridge the gap between conventional cinema and late-night fun, playing the best of grindhouse, blaxploitation, exploitation, horror, underground, and cult classics. Event producer Fernanda Parente said: “Midnight Movies offers cult film fans an opportunity to enjoy the experience of midnight movie-going, which goes all the way back to New York of the 1970s where eccentric films were played at midnight to equally eccentric film lovers. “Films that had failed in the box office were given extended runs, while repeat viewers would often dress up and interact with the films. We aim to create the same environment.” Tura Satana, Haji, and Lori Williams star as Varla, Rosie and Billy who, while racing cars in the desert, meet a young couple. After taking care of the boyfriend, they kidnap the girlfriend and head on a spree of mayhem. The screening will be followed by a special cult film retro set by
DIARY DJ Shrem. Midnight Movies launches with Faster Pussycat! Kill! Kill! on Friday, May 13, midnight at the Sugar Club, 8 Lower Leeson Street, Dublin 2. Tickets are priced €9/€7 students, and is strictly over 18. Doors open at 11pm. For more information go to http://midnightmovienights.blogspot.com or visit www.facebook.com/midnightmovienight.
Free flights with every pint BULMERS have teamed up with The Grafton Lounge to give away a free return flight to a European destination when a pint bottle of the new Bulmers Lite is purchased in The Grafton Lounge this Friday, May 6, from 8.30pm onwards. General manager, John Ennis, says it is going to be a great night and people should get in early to avoid disappointment. “It promises to be a great night, with Dj Johnny Hammond playing the best in summer tunes and 2-for-1 cocktails
throughout the night.” For more information go to www.facebook.com/thegraftonlounge
Holy sunburn! THE Workman’s Club is going al fresco! We’re not sniggering at those who have booked holidays on the continent, but is there ANYTHING worse than spending a fortune on dodgy Santa Ponsa beach towels, nuclear yellow cocktails and Billy Bulldog’s British Breakfast when, in fact, at home in the dirty ole town, it’s SSSSSS-SCORCHIO!!!!! Wish you were here? – we bet you do! And, as if by some sort of divine moment of timing, as the skies clear and the sun blazes down, Dublin’s loveliest venue announces the launch of The Roof @ The Workman’s Club. Yes, you heard it right! An entire roof’s worth of hanging out space, which will be an outdoors-indoors all-weather deck of fun. The Roof @ The Workman’s will have its own bar, BBQ area, heating, seating and very soon it will also have a wonderful Persian area, where Workmen can sample (legal) tasty hookah delights.
5 May 2011 GAZETTE 17
MUSIC Up-and-coming groups compete for Toronto gig
Local bands hope for shot at Indie Week A NUMBER of Ireland’s hottest up-and-coming bands will take to stages around the country next week as Indie Week Ireland comes to town, with a number of local groups vying for the chance to play Toronto. Indie Week, the brainchild of Canadian indiescene stalwart, Darryl Hurs, is a two-country music festival in which over 150 bands a year showcase their talents for public, press and industry. In the Irish version, bands play hoping to win a slot at Indie Week Toronto, and vice-versa. To that end, Toronto electro-pop/new-wavers, These Electric Lives, will be playing on all the bills, as part of their prize as winners of the Toronto event in October, 2010. The band combines influences to create a sound that has been described as reminiscent “of happier days in the
Last Second Magic
Cure, mixed with a few guitar licks from U2”. On the local end of things, Lucan favourites, The Riptide Movement, will play the May 13 showcase in The Grand Social on Liffey St. As anyone in Lucan can tell you, The Riptide Movement are riding the crest of a wave. Music bible, Hot Press, has called them “a thrilling live proposition that leaves crowds wondering how on earth they haven't passed out”. On the Irish festival circuit, they have a busy
The Riptide Movement
summer ahead, with Indiependence, Vantastival, Sea Sessions, Temple House, The Leixlip Festival, Shamrock Festival, Abbey Fest, Festival of Fires, No Place like Dome all on their slate. They take the stage at 9.15pm on the Friday, hoping to move into Saturday’s final. Made up of Blanchardstown, Castleknock and Dundrum natives, The Dirty 9s, fresh from their own trip to Toronto for Canadian Music Week, will close the festival on Saturday, May 14, with
a set at 11.50pm in The Grand Social on Indie Week Finals night. The Dirty 9s released their debut album “Stop Screaming, Start Dreaming”, produced by Greg Haver (Manic Street Preachers) in 2010 to critical acclaim. Described by RTE. ie as “plenty of energy.. nice hooks” and by State. ie as “a record of youthful endeavour – bags of promise”. At 10pm in Sweeney’s, Dame St on May 11, two bands from Gazette Newspapers areas take
The Dirty 9s
to separate stages at the same time as part of Indie Week’s launch party. Sixteen Layers are past winners of Indie Week, having claimed the crown at the 2009 event. From there, their debut album, I Am No One, was hailed a “sonic tour-deforce” by Hot Press and Toronto’s Music Vice called their Indie Week stand “one of the best shows I’ve ever seen in Toronto”. Hailing from Dun Laoghaire, K insealy, Castleknock and Lucan, the band are preparing to
follow-up their impressive debut album. Meanwhile, downstairs, Indie WeekToronto alumni, Blanchardstown’s Last Second Magic, take to the stage, hoping to earn a return to Toronto following their selection for the 2010 Toronto edition. The band took the name for their recently released second EP We Miss You, Black Stalin from a painting in the Canadian city, but that was not all they gained. Following a set at the festival, the band signed with a Canadian manage-
ment company. Indie Week Ireland takes place between May 11 and May 14. May 11’s launch party in Sweeney’s, Dame St is free admission, before the event moves to Auntie Anne’s in Belfast, where tickets will cost £6. The Grand Social on Liffey St then hosts the final two gigs on Friday, May 13 and Saturday, May 14. Friday’s event kicks off at 7pm and Saturday’s at 8pm. Tickets for both cost €4, before 9pm, and €6 after. For more information, see www.indieweek.com
18 GAZETTE 5 May 2011
GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs GM EXPECTS TO SELL MORE OPEL/VAUXHALL CARS THIS YEAR: GENERAL
Motors reports that it expects to sell 10,000 to 15,000 more Opel cars in Europe than originally forecast this year. GM Europe President, Nick Reilly said in an interview with Dow Jones, that strong demand in markets, such as Germany and Russia, will more than compensate for weaker sales in countries such as Spain and Portugal. Opel/Vauxhall is GM’s second bestselling brand after Chevrolet, but is the company’s only unprofitable division. Better sales will help GM Europe to reach its goal of breaking even this year before restructuring costs and making a profit next year. The division is reducing production capacity by a fifth and cutting around 8,000 jobs.
Jeep will be offering a new Compass model as an affordable and stylish two-wheel drive version from the end of this year for Irish buyers, with prices that are expected to be very competitive, according to Fiat Ireland, which will be the official importer from the middle of this year.
New direction for Compass Jeep is to relaunch its vehicles this summer in Ireland as Fiat takes over the brand. The most important is the new Compass, as MICHAEL MORONEY found out. WAS in Italy recently, test driving the new Jeep Compass, the car that the newly revitalised Jeep brand is hoping will spearhead the rebirth of the brand in Ireland. And there is some truth to that conviction, as the new Jeep Compass has been upgraded with better styling, new engines and a new level of European on-road handling. That will make it a real competitor in the smaller SUV segment. The important news for the redesigned Jeep Compass is the arrival of a Mercedes Benz-built 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine. This engine will be offered with two power outputs options in Ire-
I
SPECS: COMPASS 2.2 CRD 4X2 Top speed: 201km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 11.5 sec Economy: 18.5 km/litre (5.4l/100km) CO2 emissions: 161g/km (152 g/km Jan 2012) Road Tax Band: C (€302) expected Entry Price: €24,000 approx
land, either 136bhp or 163bhp. The peak torque or pulling power remains the same for both engines at 320Nm. Jeep, in Europe, is being managed by the Fiat Group after Fiat took what is now a 30% share in the Chrysler company from the US government as part of a financial bail-
out. Fiat expects to have more than 46% of Chrysler by the end of June. Jeep, as a brand, is a very important part of the Chrysler deal – important for Fiat for the future, as it gives the company an instant access point to the SUV and 4x4 market on a world-wide scale. The success of the Compass will be pivotal for Jeep in Europe in achieving its optimistic sales goal of pushing sales from a current 15,000 units to over 150,000 units by 2014. With the new Compass, Jeep has responded to the demand for two-wheeldrive versions of modern family-type SUVs. The new Compass, with the lower-output engine, will
be available with frontwheel drive only. Jeep claims that its performance is moreor-less on a par with the high-power unit. The high-power unit is offered with all-wheel drive only and boasts an increased 2,000kg towing capacity. When launched during the summer months, the 136bhp version’s emission of 161g/km of CO2 will place it in VRT Band D. The more powerful 163bhp, all-wheel drive model produces 172g/km (VRT Band E). Those figures are still a shade too high and Fiat Powertrain Technologies is working with Jeep to substantially reduce these emission figures further.
Jeep reckons that, by the time customers will start place their orders in Ireland for January, 2012, deliveries, the new Jeep Compass 2.2-litre CRD 4x2 Limited should fall into VRT Band C, further lowering the price and making it a far more costeffective car to own. In styling terms, the Fiat influence has made a difference. The new Jeep Compass has a new front end that’s closer in design to the bigger 2011 Grand Cherokee. Naturally, being a Jeep, the 4x4 version of the Compass offers offroad capability and this is thanks to its Freedom Drive I full-time 4x4 system. It also features a
lockable, electronicallycontrolled centre differential for tackling more extreme conditions such as deeper snow and sand. The Compass’ 4X4 system works in conjunction with the stability control, ABS and Brake Traction Control systems to ensure the good handling and traction characteristics. The proof of the car is in the driving. The Compass can drive well with plenty of power in the entry-level model, which we drove across rural roads near Baracco, near Milan. The acceleration proved its worth, but it was the handling and road-holding of the car that impressed me most of all.
The Scrappage Scheme is ending – so act now! THE Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) has advised motorists who are considering buying a car under the Scrappage Scheme, to order as soon as possible as the scheme ends in just nine weeks time. SIMI advised that, while the scheme officially ends on June 30, a dealer
may require a number of weeks to order and take delivery of your car. So, if customers don’t want to be disappointed, they need to shop now. SIMI reported that, so far this year, sales of new cars are up on last year, driven by the Government Scrappage Scheme and the great discounts availa-
ble. With not long left until the scheme ends, SIMI is anticipating a rise in the number of scrappage enquiries at dealerships in the next few weeks. The Governments Car Scrappage Scheme provides for VRT relief when a new passenger car with CO2 emissions of not more than 140g/km (i.e.
CO2 band A or B) is purchased and registered, and another passenger car over 10 years old is scrapped. The scheme runs until June 30, 2011. The VRT relief available is €1,250 for qualifying vehicles registered during the period January 1, 2011 to June 30, 2011.
5 May 2011 GAZETTE 19
20 GAZETTE 5 May 2011
GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY DUN LAOGHAIRE: THREE-BED SEMI-DETACHED FOR €349,000
Granny’s delight at Johnstown Road
14 Millmount Grove, top, and 42 Camberly Oaks
DUNDRUM: RANGE OF NEW PROPERTIES
Homes in Milltown and Churchtown SHERRY FitzGerald are bringing a number of new properties to the market at the moment. The first featured is No 14, Millmount Grove, a hidden gem situated close to Milltown, Clonskeagh and Dundrum. This two-bed terraced cottage that benefits from a quiet, leafy location, and will no doubt appeal to a wide variety of buyers. This stylish home, which has been beautifully renovated, enjoys a bright crisp interior with contemporary light-filled living/bedroom accommodation coupled with an airy kitchen and private sunny rear garden with large decked area ideal for dining al fresco. The other property is No 42, Camberly Oaks, Churchtown, Dublin 14, with an asking price of €350,000. This three-bedroom terraced house measures 84 sq m, and is positioned off Upper Churchtown Road, close to Dundrum and Churchtown. The property would be a great trade down or first home and offers the discerning purchaser 904 sq ft of bright and airy accommodation. Internally, there is a living room, kitchencum-dining room, w.c., three bedrooms, bathroom and is further enhanced by a private 33ft south-facing rear garden, ideal for those with a keen eye for gardening. To the front there is a communal parking area and landscaped borders. The sun-drenched rear garden has a sunny south-facing orientation ideal for enjoying the evening sun with patio area, ideal for outside dining or simply relaxing. The properties are avaible to view by appointment, which can be arranged through Sherry FitzGerald’s Dundrum branch on 296 1822.
GUNNE are bringing No 21 Johnstown Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin, a three-bedroom semidetached house in south County Dublin to the market for the asking price of €349,000. This bright and airy three-bedroom family home, of c117 sq m, boasts a large, attractive 98ft rear garden and a spacious front garden with ample off-street parking. The property features a converted garage to the side of the house which is used as a self-contained granny flat, with its own door access, front and rear. There is great potential to further extend to the rear of the property or
Number 21, Johnstown Road, Dun Laoghaire
convert the attic, subject to the necessary planning permission. The property itself comprises entrance hall, living room with gas fireplace, a kitchen/dining room with tiled floor, fitted with wall and floor
units, built-in storage cupboards and is plumbed for washing machine. The bedrooms feature built-in wardrobes and the bathroom is thoroughly tiled. The granny f lat is situated to the side of
the house and is selfcontained, with separate own door entrance to the front and access to the rear garden. It features an open-plan living room/kitchen, with fitted wall and floor units, cooker and is plumbed for washing machine, a shower room with Triton T90si electric shower and bedroom. There is a gated front garden with a paved driveway providing off street parking for two cars, the garden is mainly lawned and bordered by mature hedges and plants. The large 98ft rear garden boasts a decked patio, ideal for al-fresco dining, and is bordered by mature plants and
trees. There is gas central heating in the property, with a newly installed Baxi boiler, and there are double-glazed windows throughout. Ideally located within close proximity of a host of local amenities including excellent primary and secondary schools, shops and leisure facilities. The area is also close to good transport links, including the N11 and M50 which are within easy access and regular bus services to and from the city. Viewing is by appointment only, and can be arranged by contacting Gunne on 01 280 1719 or e-mail dunlaoghaireoffice@gunne.ie.
RATHMINES: ORNATE PERIOD RESIDENCE REDUCED IN PRICE
Kensington Lodge a palace in the south
FINNEGAN Menton are bringing No 107 Grove Park, Rathmines, Dublin 6, an ornate Queen Anne-style detached residence in the heart of Rathmines, with four bedrooms to the market at the reduced price of €1.2m. Kensington Lodge is a majestic period residence extremely conveniently located on Grove Park, which is a quiet residential road off Rathmines Road, close to Portobello Bridge. The property extends to 3,000 sq ft and has a secluded garden with off-street parking. This proper ty was designed by William Isaac Chambers, for himself, in 1882 in Queen Anne-style. Kensington Lodge was lovingly restored and sympathetically modernised by the current owners over
the past 30 years and is undoubtedly now one of the finest period residences in the area. The property comprises hallway, drawing room with dual aspect, elegant, grey marble mantle piece, cast-iron fireplace with tiled inset, and polished wood floor. The kitchen is fully modernised, with Rayburn cooker, with brick feature surround. There are full-length Shakerstyle maple cupboards, granite worktops and feature island unit with sink unit and storage presses. There is an integrated fridge, double oven, grill, electric hob with extractor and dishwasher. The sitting room has a wood-burning stove with recessed book shelves to either side, wood panelled ceiling, laminated
The kitchen at Kensington Lodge
wood floor and folding French doors to garden. The four bedrooms are well-sized and appointed, and there is an attic room with large velux window and feature circular leaded-stained glass window and a pitched, painted wood ceiling. There are views of the Dublin Mountains.
This superb location offers a tranquil environment just a five-minute stroll from bustling Rathmines Village and within an easy walk of Dublin City Centre (1.25km). The area is superbly served by a myriad of shops, restaurants, and pubs with numerous schools, churches and
other public amenities all at hand, complimented by an excellent public transport system, including Luas, for those not wishing to walk to Dublin City Centre. For more information, contact Iain Finnegan or Richard Carrigan on (01) 614 7900 or e-mail info@ finneganmenton.ie.
5 May 2011 GAZETTE 21
GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS Furnishing what customers want
Supported by AIB
Interview: Graham Costigan, general manager, Room To Room
DUCA Furniture, trading as Room To Room, started business more than 10 years ago as a furniture wholesaler. Given the tough economic conditions prevailing in the country, the company decided to take their furniture directly to the public, with a benefit for the customer being the excellent value the company says it offers all year long. Talking to the Gazette this week, general manager Graham Costigan told us about his career and the company. “I was born what seems like an eternity ago in Dublin, I spent seven years living in Germany, and came back to Ireland 12 years ago. “Since leaving school (Joey’s in Fairview) I’ve run pubs, an accounts department and a freight company before joining Duca Furniture about a year ago. “I enjoy work, golf, travel, a couple of drinks now and then and relaxing with [partner] Karen, but not necessarily in that order!” Graham says. “Duca Furniture started business over 10 years ago as a furniture wholesaler. Based on the outskirts of Dundalk, we have a state-of-the-art 75,000 sq ft warehouse facility. Our showrooms in Santry, Fonthill and Leopardstown are decked out in the best of furniture. “We sell quality and pride ourselves on this. There are plenty of furniture retailers, but we feel we have some of the best furniture out there. And, as we’re a wholesaler by
Q: What was your first job? A: I worked in Dunnes in the northside, stacking shelves and sweeping floors. Oh, how I miss those days ...
Q: And your first pay cheque? A: It was from the same place. Q: How many people do you have to talk with every day? A: Loads. Sometimes too many, sometimes not enough.
Q: What is the best thing about your job? A: The greatest thrill is getting things organised and not having any problems with deliveries.
Q: What part of your job do you dislike the most?
PRSAS (PERSONAL RETIREMENT SAVINGS ACCOUNTS) Q – I am married, 43 with two children and no pension. I was told employers have to provide a facility for employees to contribute to a pension, a PRSA. Can you advise me, as I don’t fancy having to live on € 230.30 per week when I am 68? Gerry - Ranelagh
Graham Costigan, general manager at Room To Room
trade, the price is fair as there is no middle man. “We stock most of the floor items and have a wide range of customised furniture. Why not slip by if you’re in the market?” According to Graham, Room To Room don’t mark up prices to enable them to mark down in a fake sale. The company is keen to promote its core belief of providing the customer with an excellent level of service and quality at
a fair price. Room To Room carries stocks of leather, bedroom, dining and occasional furniture, with most of these items available for immediate delivery. Added to the its extensive range of custom-made fabric suites, the company believes it has something to suit every taste and every pocket. Customers can find all of the company’s details at www.roomtoroom.ie
Q&A Q: When you were a kid, what did you want to be? A: I wanted to be a footballer.
ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS
A: Doing the accounts – boring.
Q: What air carrier do you use when going on holidays? A: Generally Aer Lingus or Ryanair, whichever is best value.
Q: What car do you drive? A: I drive an old Audi. Q: Can you swim? A: I can, and try to, as much as possible.
Q: Would you ever bungee jump? A: Nope; I don’t like heights. Q: Do you play any sport? A: I play golf. Q: What is your favourite food and drink? A: My favourite food is stew; my favourite drink is coffee.
Q: Who would you like to have dinner with – Brian O’Driscoll or Brian Cowen? A: Brian Cowen. I’d love to
Q: Where is your favourite holiday destination? A: Portugal.
give him a slap up the side of the head.
Q: Have you ever met Brian Cowen? A: Nope.
Q: How many times a week do you go to the ‘hole in the wall’? A: Way too often.
Q: What other job in the whole world would you really like to have? A: A professional golfer;
Q: How many times each year do you shop for clothes? A: As seldom as possible. I
otherwise, I’m very happy with my work.
don’t like shopping.
Q: What is the name of your favourite shop? A: Room to Room, of course! But, really, it’s Macy’s in New York.
Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own? A: About 15, I think.
Q: When do you wish to retire? A: As soon as I have the means to do so, comfortably.
A - There are currently over 420,000 Irish citizens over the age of 65 and, by the year 2050, there will be 1.8million citizens over this age - 767,300 by 2026, meaning that 16 years from now, more than 16% of the population will be in retirement. Put another way, in 2010 there were six workers for every retired person in the state. By 2051, there will only be two workers for every retired person. Another fact is that half of the current earning population of Ireland does not have a pension, having to solely rely on the State Pension when they retire. As you know, that retirement age is also moving to age 68 over the coming years. So, you are quite right to be concerned, as we need to address our retirement planning and save for the future now. PRSAs – Personal Retirement Savings Accounts - were introduced September 2003 forcing ALL employers to set up a debit system to allow employees to contribute to a pension plan if there was not one already in place. While they do NOT have to contribute to their employees’ pensions, at least not yet, they will do in 2014. They MUST nominate an insurance company now to allow these pension payments or direct debits to be made by their employees. Failure to do so can result in a fine to the employer of between € 1,500 and € 12,700 ! You should, therefore, approach your company and ask if they have nominated a insurance company and set up such a scheme. You can, of course, also take the initiative yourself and open your own PRSA with any insurance company directly. The idea behind PRSAs was to make them affordable and portable for everyone. There is a maximum annual management charge of 1%, together with a maximum contribution charge of 5%. Needless to say, there are a number of rules, regulations, terms and conditions and therefore you should seek professional, authorised and independent advice on same.
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Q: What will you do then? A: I haven’t got a clue. I will read books and take it easy for a while, and just spend some time smelling the flowers – I don’t get a chance now.
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22 GAZETTE 5 May 2011
GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Try-mendous travel offer with Stena Line for Heineken Cup Final RUGBY fans can travel from only €44* per person by car for the Heineken Cup Final. STENA Line has a special offer from only €44* per person for rugby fans travelling by car (with four passengers) to the Heineken Cup Final in the Millennium Stadium in Wales on Saturday, May 21, which kicks off at 5pm. Fans can travel by Superferry from Rosslare Port on Friday, May 20, at 21:15, or on Saturday, May 21, at 09:00 and return from Fishguard on Sunday, May 22, at 02:45 hours, arriving into Rosslare Harbour at 06.15. For more information, or to book, log on to www.stenaline.ie, call 01 204 7777 or visit your local Stena Line office or travel agent. *Terms & conditions apply. Subject to availability. Fare does not include match ticket and is based on a car plus 4 people travelling.
Hop to the great cities of Las Vegas and San Francisco CHECK out two of the USA’s coolest hotspots with the latest twin city offer from GoHop.ie. Soak up the hip vibe of San Francisco and enjoy its many fine restaurants and cultural highlights and then throw yourself into all of the excitement and buzz that’s on offer in Las Vegas. Stay seven nights from €809 per person sharing Package includes: Return flights from Dublin to San Francisco, three nights accommodation in your choice of three-star hotel, four nights in your choice of three-star hotel in Las Vegas on room-only basis and airline taxes and charges. Don’t miss out on this unbeatable twin city offer to San Francisco and Las Vegas, book with Gohop, visit www.GoHop.ie or call (01) 2412303.
A bit of windsurfing in Antrim WINDSURFING Week, which is taking place across Northern Ireland until May 8, provides enthusiasts with the perfect opportunity to enjoy a spring break in the surfing hub of Portrush, Co Antrim. Co Antrim’s North Coast is dotted with surfing schools that offer lessons to all ages and abilities. Visitors and wannabe surfers can turn their trip into a short stay by availing of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board’s (NITB) special accommodation offer of two nights’ accommodation with breakfast at the Ramada in Portrush from only £95pps (subject to availability). The beautiful seaside town is a favourite with tourists due to its stunning scenery and fantastic entertainment venues. For further information contact the Northern Ireland Tourist Board on callsave 1850 230 230, click on www.discovernorthernireland.com or visit the Tourist Information Centre, Suffolk Street, Dublin 2 to avail of its free advice and booking service.
A magical place for those vital first steps DAWN LOVE-LATIMER
ALTHOUGH the chance to review one of Ireland’s best-known hotels is something I would normally jump at, the idea of driving to Kerry with a 10-month-old baby made both me and my husband, Dylan, think twice, actually more than twice to be honest. But throwing caution to the wind, on a sunny April day we loaded up our old estate and the three of us headed for the Parknasilla Resort and Spa in Kerry. In the end, we’d nothing to worry about. We decided to stop in Adare for lunch, and the new motor way meant we zipped down in no time at all. It was like the scene in Meet the Fockers, when all the traffic lights go green, because Harry ended up sleeping most of the way to Adare and again until we reached Kerry. Okay, getting from Killarney to Kenmare proved a little tricky, as Harry left both me and Dylan in no doubt that he’d had enough, but we got there in the end and the view when you pull up to the front of Parknasilla Resort and Spa is one of the most spectacular I have ever seen. Perched majestically
overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this historic Victorian building conjures up images of the sumptuous hotels featured in Miss Marple and Poirot, and you can understand why both Charles de Gaulle and Princess Grace of Monaco were fans. There is a timeless quality about the hotel, although it now boasts a state-of-the-art spa and a new wing. I think Irish artist Patrick Scott summed it up best, when, recalling the holidays he spent there with his family in the 1930s, he said: “I remember as a child being very impressed by the grandeur of it, and the locations, of course. But it did seem to be the kind of hotel that people got very fond of and kept going there.” To be honest, nothing has really changed, and that’s what I loved about it. Many of the people I met on our stay at Parknasilla are regulars, and many of them are families. It’s set amidst 500 acres, and, with a massive swimming pool, rock pools and walking trails, it is sheer kiddie heaven. We’ve been to a few cafes and restaurants before where it’s made pretty clear that children aren’t particularly welcome, but, in spite of
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‘Our little bundle of joy took his first solo steps, a family memory that we will treasure, and we hope to have many more of them at this Kerry gem’ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
the beautiful reception rooms in the hotel, never once were we made feel like this. In fact, Harry got so attached to some of the hotel’s staff that on the last day, as we said our goodbyes, he leaped into the arms of John from the Pygmalion. Other staff members,
like PJ, are also parents, in fact he is a dad of twins – so we always felt we were in an easygoing atmosphere and there was never a problem if we needed some food heated. We stayed in one of the hotel’s new suites, and there is oodles of room for a family. One of my pet hates is poor bed linen, but
there were no fears here. The beds are massive with really comfy mattresses and the bed linen is topquality cotton. The bathroom was gorgeous, too, and I’m a total sucker for nice beauty products, so the Elemis ones that Parknasilla uses went down a treat. Which brings me to the
5 May 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 23
R1
TravelBriefs
Four-star holidays deals from €53 per day all-inclusive, from Panorama Holidays
Dawn with her son Harry, left, taking his first few solo steps. A lone Drascombe Lugger, above, drifts by the surroundings of Parknasilla
SPECIAL OFFERS THE Parknasilla is currently offering guests a twonight bed and breakfast and one evening meal deal from just €159 per person sharing, or book three nights bed and breakfast and two evening meals from just €229 per person sharing. Bookings must be made before May 31 and the stay must take place before June 30, 2011. To book visit www.parknasillahotel.ie or telephone 064 667 5600.
next part of the hotel, the spa – a definite must. I had a Hot Stone Massage. Now, I’m a big fan of facials and massages but I’ve never had a Hot Stone one and I really wasn’t sure if I would chill out as I heard the rustle of stones at the beginning. Chill out I did, so much so that
Dylan told me I should have a massage like that more often. He was joking, of course – at least, I like to think so. In fact, I chilled out so much I fell asleep and the therapist had to wake me when she had finished. Most nights we ate in the Doolittle Bar, which has an extensive menu
of really wholesome food and yummy desserts – definitely try the Sticky Toffee Pudding. The buffet breakfasts were a real treat. Set in the Pygmalion restaurant, this is a really stunning and historic room with ocean views, and on our last night we decided to get a bit dolled up and
eat there. Head chef is Peter Brennan, who has worked in some of London and Dublin’s top eateries, and his food is pretty spectacular. I have to say I would travel to Parknasilla alone for one of his dinners. All ingredients are locally sourced, including the freshly
caught fish, local farm vegetables and meat. On a personal note, our little bundle of joy took his first solo steps in Parknasilla, a family memory that we will treasure and we hope to have many more of them at this Kerry gem that is run the way hotels used to, and should be.
“ALL-INCLUSIVE” is very much the buzz word among cost-conscious sunseekers this year, with tour operators seeing a strong rise in holidaymakers opting for packages, which include meals, drinks and entertainment in the price. Panorama has just released a large selection of all-inclusive deals for the month of May, with prices as low as €375 per week for four-star accommodation in Crete. The offers cover three- and four-star properties in 12 destinations spread across Turkey, Greece, Portugal and Spain, and include all meals, snacks, non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks, evening entertainment and use of hotel facilities. The four-star Gouves Park in Crete is on offer for just €375 per person sharing for May 6 departure, and is ideal for families, with nightly entertainment and a kids’ club, with a day-time activity programme. The Algarve remains a favourite with Irish holidaymakers, and Panorama has a number of all-inclusive deals in the area, with the four-star Delfim Hotel in Alvor available from May for €635, and the Dom Pedro Golf resort in Vilamoura for €756 on May 15. The Villa Marina Club in Salou, on the Costa Dorada in Spain, offers terrific value in May, from €415, departing May 6 or 15, while Fuengirola, on the Costa del Sol, can be enjoyed for €499 (Gardenia Park). Turkey is rightly popular for its value, and Panorama has a choice of allinclusive destinations in May, with the four-star Delta Beach Resort in Yalikavak from €479, the Bathian Hotel in Kusadasi from €449 and the Piril Hotel in Cesme from €539. Menorca, from €449, Majorca from €489, Fuerteventura from €549, Lanzarote from €545, Tenerife from €635 and Zakynthos from €619, complete the special May offers. All prices are per person, based on two sharing and include taxes and charges. “The prospect of accommodation, meals, snacks, drinks and entertainment for as little as €53 a day must be very appealing for families struggling with the cost of living here in Ireland,” says Brian Nevin of Panorama Holidays. To book, and for more details on any of the discounts on offer, call 0818 20 20 20, log on to www.panoramaholidays.ie or visit your nearest travel agent.
24 SWORDS GAZETTE 5 May 2011
GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1
GoingOUT GoingOUT PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Howard Marks: An Audience With Mr Nice Howard Marks is a writer, creator, contributor, storyteller, comedian, Oxford graduate, philosopher, teacher, stoner, singer, actor, DJ, social commentator, revolutionary and an all-round Nice guy. A softly spoken man, he has engaged audiences from Kilkenny to Kathmandu with his fascinating lifestyle and great anecdotal tales that has seen him driven by adrenaline and fuelled by emotion for a right and just society. May 8 at 7:30. Tickets €19/€21.
SEAMUS ENNIS CULTURAL CENTRE 01 802 0898 Majorstuen Breakneck polkas with daring runs, easy-going lullabies with blue notes, groovy reinlenders and wickedly wonderful waltzes. This is what you may expect from a musical experience with the fiddle and cello collective Majorstuen. Majorstuen has somehow come to signify the revival of Norwegian traditional music with a hugely dynamic and forward-looking musical expression. Already with its 2003 debut album this five-strong fiddle ensemble made it clear that things were changing in the sphere of Norwegian folk. May 7 at 8:30pm. Admission: €16. Priest (Paul Bettany) knows that his kidnapped niece is somewhere out there in the wasteland. The warrior has to find her, soon, before her
THE HELIX 01 700 7000
vampire kidnappers turn her into one of them. Meanwhile, the Church has sent agents to find and stop him – but why?
Psychic Medium Tony Stockwell Psychic Tony Stockwell has been working for some 20 years, constantly striving to push the boundaries of his communication. In that time he has had umpteen television programmes and has taught at the most respected schools for mediumistic development. Legions of people have witnessed his unique gifts and can testify to what he does as truly amazing. May 6 at 8pm. Tickets: €30.
MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 The Pajama Game The story deals with labour troubles in a pyjama factory, where worker demands for a seven-and-a-half cents raise are going unheeded. In the midst of this ordeal, love blossoms between Babe, the grievance committee head, and Sid, the new factory superintendent. Until May 7. Admission: €18/€15
DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Pineapple Pineapple is a tough and tender drama about love and survival. Calipo presents the world premiere of Pineapple, the new play from acclaimed playwright Phillip McMahon (Danny and Chantelle, All over Town, Alice In Funderland). May 5 - 6 at 8pm. Tickets: €15/€12 conc / €10 Groups.
Vladimir and Classical Twist Vladimir Jablokov is a young violin virtuoso from Bratislava, Slovakia. He arrived in Ireland in 2004 and formed the Slovak Festival Quartet with some friends. May 7 at 8pm. Tickets: €18 / €16 concession.
CIVIC THEATRE 01 4627477 Somewhere Under The Rainbow Starring Sharon Sexton as Liza Minnelli. Beneath the surface of sequins, feathers and razzle dazzle that is so often associated with Miss Minnelli, lies a truly captivating character, who has lived one of the toughest, most fascinating and remarkable lives in show business! Join Sharon Sexton’s Liza in the intimate setting of her dressing room as she performs pieces from her infamous musical catalogue and shares the secrets, stories and memories that make up a mesmerising career, including the memories of what was undoubtedly the most demanding role she ever played, that of “Judy Garland’s daughter”. May 6 at 8pm. Admission: €20 and €16 concession.
Bit of an unholy mess Kate’s prayers for an original vampire movie have ... not been answered, with this Matrix-with-bloodsuckers film Q KATE CROWLEY
A READER recently asked me if I liked any film I cover, given a near-constant stream of one-star and two-star reviews streaming out from gleaming Gazette Towers. Well, Timmy, by golly, I’m glad you asked me that. Of course I like films and cinema, it’s just that Hollywood keeps on making bad, bad films, which then end up trying to sneak into Dublin cinemas in a bid to take your hard-earned Recessionista Roubles. The noive of those guys! So, rather than trying to tell you about good or interesting films (such as Takashi Miike’s latest, 13 Assassins, which is another well-told tale set in violent, feudal Japan), I sometimes feel it’s my duty to climb up on the roof and start shouting about some of the lame turkeys on the way to
FILM OF THE WEEK: Priest ++ (15A) 87 mins Director: Scott Charles Stewart Starring: Paul Bettany, Christopher Plummer, Karl Urban, Lily Collins, Cam Gigandet, lots of CG beasties
OUR VERDICT: LOOKING around the world, Kate has seen some fresh twists on the vampire theme recently, such as Let The Right One In (Sweden), or Thirst (Korea). Then she gets Priest (Hollywood). Although not totally terrible, its endless style over substance is rather draining and, she says, it has rather too much leather coats, slo-mo and noisy music to make a good impression. Conclusion? It sorta sucks ...
gobble your change. That, or to sit here at my old Remington, put on my geen eye shade, and tap away in front of the fire. And, lo, speaking of warnings about bad films, here comes a Priest that many of you probably won’t like so much. In a futuristic world, following a long-running clash between humans and vampires, which humanity eventually won, a warrior priest (Paul Bettany) lives in obscurity amongst the huddled masses of one of the world’s safe, walled cities,
ruled over with absolute authority by the Church. The war was won, but the vampires weren’t wiped out, with many of their various, mutated forms prowling around in the post-apocalyptic wastelands beyond the walls of the cities. When his niece, Lucy (Lily Collins) is grabbed by the vampires, Priest is the only man for the job to go git her, before the gal becomes a ghoul. Well, almost the only man, as he’s joined by Lucy’s brave boyfriend and an Inevitable Feisty Warrior Woman Sidekick
for his near-suicidal rescue mission. Not that the Church wants him to leave the city; in fact, Monsignor Orelas (Christopher Plummer) expressly forbids his mission, and even despatches other holy warriors to bring back Priest from the wasteland. Could the Church have its own nefarious secrets, perhaps? Still, our heroes don’t have Nosferatu go to find the vampires and screaming niece/girlfriend. However, despite being very skilled at trampling vampires, there’s still just a few of them, and an awful lot of mean vampires to get past – and the meanest of them all is Black Hat (Karl Urban), who may still look pretty human, but is a true beast on the inside. Priest finds himself not just with a rescue mission to complete, but also has to do something about the terrible truth he
uncovers; something that Black Hat was counting on him uncovering ... Shlock-horror fans will welcome the sight (and distinctive sound) of Christopher Plummer; a seasoned old ham who adds his reliable B-Movie stamp to the film. Meanwhile, Bettany continues his apparent bid to usurp Clive Owen as a Grade-A indicator of a Grade-Awful film, with yet another film involving him and some supernatural hi-jinks. I’m not adverse to vampire films – some readers may recall that I liked the bloodthirsty film, 30 Days of Night, for example – but, I confess that Priest really isn’t anything that special. Coming across like a cross between Judge Dredd, Firefly and Mad Max, Priest will probably go down well with some, but, for this reviewer, Priest hasn’t a prayer. Fangs, but no fanks ...
5 May 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 25
Imagine! People actually queueing to buy music! ADAM MAGUIRE
Jessica Alba, one of the stars of J th the just-released, Little Fockers
Why Alba really loves the Fockers THE third instalment in the highly-popular Fockers series, Meet the Parents – Little Fockers, was recently released on a range of formats, with the DVD and Blu-Ray releases flying off the shelves. One of the film’s stars, Jessica Alba, shared some of her thoughts on working with the likes of Ben Stiller. Meet the Parents – Little Fockers is available now at a wide range of outlets.
Q: Tell readers about your character ... A: I play “Andi Garcia” and, yes, that’s a bit of a joke! She’s very bubbly, very outgoing and she never thinks before she speaks. She says exactly what’s on her mind, and she has that ‘cheerleader’ kind of attitude. Q: Does that mean you got some really good lines to say? A: Yes, and I threw in a lot of slang as well, because I thought it would be funny if [Andi] did that, and if there was that sort of generational gap between Ben’s character and her character, that he just had no idea what the hell she was talking about at all! Q: Is comedy hard to do? A: Yes, comedy is the hardest thing to do. Acting in other things, it’s subjective what works. But, with comedy, if you don’t make people laugh, you have screwed up. It’s hard. Q: You’re working with some great comedians. Is it difficult to keep a straight face sometimes when you’re filming scenes with them? A: Well, you can laugh at the scene when they’re doing their close-up, but when you are in the scene with a wide shot, you can’t break character. So, my goal every day was to try and get Ben to break character and laugh! Q: What was it like, doing ‘Little Fockers’? A: It was the best time ever, it really was, and every day I came home knowing that I’d had a great day at work. It was the kind of film that made me want to act in the first place. I loved it; every day was a blast.
A FUNNY thing happened recently; something that had not happened for quite some time. People up and down the country queued outside their local music shops, waiting for the doors to open. The reason was Record Store Day – an international event aimed at drawing crowds into record shops with live music and limited edition releases. Its success was, no doubt, welcome for the industry, too, as it continues to struggle in a world of digital – and more often than not, illegal – downloads. If record labels and musicians can take one thing from it, it is that people are still willing to pay for music, assuming there is enough of an incentive for doing so.
Gimmicky However, if they feel this kind of gimmicky event is enough to save an industry in turmoil, they are only fooling themselves. The reality is that the world has changed. The internet has made it possible to get hold of practically any song, and users do not even have to pay for the pleasure of doing so. This is a modern-day Pandora’s Box, and all the legal threats, court cases, moral appeals and guilt trips in the world will never undo this shift. The way people consume music will never go back to the way it was before. However, these very tactics have characterised the industry’s reaction to illegal downloading, to date, simply because they are the easiest ones available. Unfortunately for the
record labels, this is not a simple problem with a simple solution. Rather than waste energy fighting a losing battle in the courts, perhaps it is time for the industry to focus its energies in more productive ways.
Hinderance Individual artists are already leading the way and, as much as it has proven a hindrance, technology can also be used to help this. There is no one route that will prove successful for all, of course, but, then again, it is a myth to suggest there ever was. With matters such as Record Store Day and the resurgence in vinyl sales, it is clear that people will spend money on music, as long as they get something in return. Something tangible, exclusive, personal ... Whatever the big players decide to do, people will continue to make money from music in the years and decades ahead. Whether they are a part of that really depends on how they react in the relatively short-term ... Nintendo 3DS Having led the field with touch-sensitive, and then motion-sensitive, gaming, Nintendo may be on to another winner with this glasses-free 3D handheld. The original Nintendo DS, which has been on the market in one form or another for many years now, has been a roaring success. Worldwide sales are touching on 150 million units, and most people have played games, such
as Brain Training and Nintendogs, at least once. Therefore, a follow-up to the handheld was always going to be hotly anticipated, and under a lot of pressure to perform. The Nintendo 3DS, it seems, is worth the wait, with its cracking graphics and striking 3D graphics without the need for glasses. The 3D, along with 3D cameras built-in, opens up a whole new way of playing games that will really capture your imagi-
nation. The ability to download new titles wirelessly is handy, too, as is the likes of the “Streetpass” feature, which helps you to set up multiplayer games with people nearby. If there is anything bad
to say, it is that the 3D can strain the eyes a little when used a lot, but it is so easy to adapt it to suit you – or to switch it off – that this is not really going to be a problem. Expect this to be top of many people’s birthday and Christmas lists for the next year, or more. The Nintendo 3DS is available from games retailers, with a RRP of €270. Visit teic.ie for the latest tech news, reviews and views.
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26 SWORDS GAZETTE 5 May 2011
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PLANNING NOTICE FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL We Mr and Mrs Dennis Duff of 12 Forest Crescent , Swords, Co. Dublin intend to apply for permission for single storey extension at side and to relocate front door to new side extension and block up existing front door and all associated site works. This application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of Fingal County Council during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. 12504
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GazetteSPORT
SPORT AWARDS: GazetteSport’s April winners are announced: Page 29
CRICKET: NORTH COUNTY CLUB TAKES FIRST STEPS TOWARD INTERNATIONAL FACILITY
Malahide all set to celebrate 150 years ROB HEIGH sport@gazettegroup.com
THE development of cricket in north County Dublin announced in October of last year began to come to fruition when representatives of Cricket Ireland and Fingal County Council were on hand at the turning of the sod on the new international cricket facility at Malahide Cricket Club last week. Ireland cricket inter-
national John Mooney, Warren Deutrom, the CEO of Cricket Ireland, Mayor of Fingal, Ken Farrell, and Norman Adams, president of Malahide Cricket Club were present at Malahide Demesne as the club took the first tangible step on the road to the development of the club’s grounds, which came on the back of a €450,000 funding boost. The funds, predomi-
nantly, will go toward the cost of redeveloping and extending the outfield, as well as providing grass banking, which will accomodate the crowds attending matches. Mayor Farrell said: “Fingal County Council is greatly looking forward to working with Malahide Cricket Club and Cricket Ireland on the development of this facility. “The sport of cricket has a long association
Jonh Mooney, Warren Deutrom, Mayor Ken Farrell and Norman Adams at the ceremony at Malahide CC
with Fingal with some of the oldest and longest established clubs based in north Dublin and the sport is very popular in the Fingal area. It was therefore fitting that the Cricket Club in Malahide Demesne had been
chosen as the location for Ireland’s new international cricket facility.”
Celebrations The club are in the midst of another celebration at the moment, with their 150th anniversary
celebrations about to get into full swing. As part of the celebrations, the club are hosting a Gala Dinner Dance on June 11 in the Grand Hotel, Malahide and hope that the wider community of members,
friends and supporters of the club will join in the celebrations and reunite with old friends and team-mates. For more information on the dinner, contact Howard on 087 419 0148.
28 SWORDS GAZETTE 5 May 2011
GazetteSport Sport Rugby
FastRugby
HEINEKEN CUP: VICTORY PUTS BLUES WITHIN WIN OF TITLE
Coaches lead elite corps at Malahide For the first time, Malahide RFC this year introduced an academy structure for its youth players. Players were identified and invited to attend an additional training session per week with academy coaches and Malahide first-team players, Richie Forbes and Blake Creighton. Malahide RFC Elite Rugby Academy programme is aimed at developing a core of 20 players ranging in age from 14 to 18 years. Over the course of a number of weeks, players were tested and observed in both training and game situations, resulting in selection to participate in the programme. The academy programme is targeted at players who all possess above average skill levels, showing immense potential for improvement given the right coaching and environment for development. As part of this programme, players will be subject to increased levels of coaching, including individual player/position specific skills and programmes. As well as this video analysis will be utilised tracking improvement of players and referencing skills and drills to be used by coaches in regular season training. We believe players training in an increased skilled environment will allow opportunity for improvement. All of the players identified for the Academy programme have shown an improvement in their basic rugby skills and all of the youth coaching staff who had players involved in the academy programme noted a significant improvement in the players’ overall games. The academy players are now on a well-earned close season break but it is intended to restart and to continue to advance the programme once the new season begins in September.
Man of the match, Jamie Heaslip, receives his award from Pat Maher of Heineken
Leinster close in on cup HEINEKEN CUP S-FINAL Leinster Toulouse
32 23
sport@gazettegroup.com
LEINSTER moved a step closer to a second Heineken Cup title in three years in a breathless tie against Toulouse in the Aviva Stadium last Saturday, winning 32-23 in a wonderful exhibition of rugby. Perennial man-ofthe-match winner and try-scorer, Jamie Heaslip, though, said there was plenty to get right ahead of the final against Northampton, set to take place at the end of the month. “We set our goals at the start of the season to win the competition, but credit to Toulouse, who played some amaz-
ing rugby. If we’re honest, we know that we haven’t played some of our best yet. “We knew how good they would be because they showed us last year — and we were made to work hard for the win. “There are a lot of leaders in our team and our focus is on talking, on getting the little details right, and on the next job at hand. “When we got into their 22 we caused them a lot of problems, but we have to look at the video and address some of the areas we fell down on. But we’re delighted to win against a quality side.” It was Brian O ’ D r i s c o l l ’ s 14 9 t h appearance for the province and, while his
try was a vital component in the game, he was keen to emphasise that it was the team’s defensive performance which propelled the side. “I suppose it was an important one — and I’ll take the credit for falling over the line with the ball! “I feel that we definitely fronted up when we n e e d e d t o . We didn’t play great — and we weren’t at our best — but we showed great resolve, and we know that we haven’t won anything yet. “ We s h o u l d n ’t b e allowing silly tries like that (first try), and we have to make sure that that doesn’t happen again. “Sometimes you have
to learn from defeats in the past but, in the semi-final stage, it’s all about getting over the line, and we’re delighted that we managed that.” Florian Fritz profited from a fortunate bounce of the ball off the upright from a David Skrela penalty to score Toulouse’s fifthminute opener, with Leinster using their forward power to set up a 31st-minute reply from Jamie Heaslip, who started and finished the move after a wonderful spell of forward pressure. In between both tries, Jonathan Sexton added penalties on 9 and 13 minutes respectively — the second a result of excellent work by Sean O’Brien.
The hosts edged into a 16-13 half-time lead, courtesy of Sexton’s injury-time penalty, but Louis Picamoles barrelled over for Toulouse’s second try in the 43rd minute, with Skrela converting, to make it 16-20 to the reigning champions. Leinster used their bench intelligently and Sexton’s place-kicking was assured, moving them back ahead until O’Driscoll struck after some excellent initial work from Mike Ross, Sexton and then Isaac Boss, who provided the assist. Although replacement Nicolas Bezy in the 75th minute kicked Toulouse to within six points, Sexton had the final say.
5 May 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 29
in association with
SWIMMING: ARRAY OF TITLES CLAIMED AT NAC
2011 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS APRIL WINNERS IN ASSOCIATION WITH
+ STARof theMONTH
DAVID MALONE THE Paralympic swimming star was announced as the team manager for Ireland’s 2012 London Paralympics campaign last month, a well-deserved accolade and further affirmation of both his place as one of the leading lights in the sport and his ability to develop and nurture new talent in the sport
TEAMof theMONTH + COLAISTE IOSAGAIN
THE southside ladies took on a challenge never attained in Dublin schools’ senior football and brought back the All-Ireland title after a titanic struggle against Holy Rosary College of Galway, showing that the game of ladies’ football in the capital has a great deal of promise for the future. APRIL saw a great deal of sporting achievement in Dublin, and the early weeks of May look set to do the same, with the capital’s footballers, hurlers and ladies footballers all chasing league titles, and other titles being decided in all manner of sports. But an All-Ireland crown has a special cachet, especially when it is the first one to be claimed in Dublin since the competition began, and Colaiste Iosagain must be hailed for their success. When one of the greats in a sport received an accolade that recognises his capacity to rise beyond any perceived limitations and inspire
those he coaches to the same level of achievement, that cannot be ignored. David Malone showed his ability to shine in the pool at international level for many years, and now is set to bring a new generation of swimmers to Paralympic glory in 2011. Let us know about your achievements in sport, so that the Gazette can tell the rest of Dublin — and give you, or your team, a chance of being one of our monthly stars. Contact us on 01 601 0240 or sport@gazettegroup.com to tell us all about your successes in the month of May, and follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/gazettesport.
Portmarnock’s Karl Burdis was one of the top performers at the National Long-Course championships
National contest sees local winners TROJAN’S Nuala Murphy and Portmarnock’s Karl Burdis were two of the bigger local winners at last weekend’s National Long-Course swimming championships, held in the National Aquatic Centre in Abbotstown. The formerwas involved in a series of high-profile tussles with rising star Sycerika McMahon and fellow high performance swimmer, Niamh O’Sullivan. But it was in Friday’s 1500m freestyle final that she achieved her big success, crushing her rivals by over a minute as she finished in a time of 17:19:13, well clear of Breifne’s
Cliodhna Delaney and Comans’ Sarah Kelly. As she dropped down the distances, the quality of the fields became more intense, none more so on day three when Murphy contested the 400m freestyle race. Murphy was well in contention with McMahon and O’Sullivan But, at the half-way mark, Murphy who is returning from an injury this year, dropped behind leaving McMahon and O’Sullivan to dominate the race. The two rivals made an outstanding effort, and turned at the last wall within four hundredths of
a second of each other. O’Sullivan dug in deep, but McMahon powered through on the last 25m in an impressive home, straight spurt to touch the wall ahead of the Kerry native in 4min.17.39 – just over a second faster than O’Sullivan (4min 18.17).
Prowess Burdis, meanwhile, showed his prowess in the backstroke field as he clocked 2:04:57 to win the men’s 200m race ahead of Niall Wynn as he continues his build-up for a second World University Games bid in China. The Portmarnock man is currently studying at
DCU after a couple of high-quality seasons in the US at the University of Minnesota. Aer Lingus were another club to prosper, picking up a number of medals despite the absence of World Senior Champiosnhips qualifier, Barry Murphy. ConorTurner, a qualifier for the European Juniors in Belgrade, was the silver medallist in the 1500m freestle, finishing just off the pace set by Leander’s Conor Donnelly, while club-mate Andrew Meegan matched that feat in the 100m butterfly and also grabbed bronze in the 400m freestyle.
NAC to host more Olympic champions THE Irish Water Polo Association and Swim Ireland have announced that the triple Olympic water-polo champions, Hungary, are coming to Ireland in June. The National Aquatic Centre secured the high-profile booking when the British and Hungarian waterpolo teams decided to come to Dublin for training and international fixtures, Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport Leo Varadkar announced last week. This is the latest in a number of
high-profile link-ups with international competitors for the NAC, as it is already booked to host the USA Synchronised Swim Team for up to six weeks in advance of the London Olympics. It will also host the British Paralympic Swim squad for a training camp later this year.
International The Hungarian and British men’s waterpolo senior squads will use the National Aquatic Centre for a training camp
and two international matches between June 5 and 8, in co-operation with the Irish Waterpolo Association and Swim Ireland. Minister Varadkar said: “It’s a great boost for waterpolo in Ireland to attract athletes of this calibre. The 22-man Hungarian senior squad has more than 40 Olympic Gold Medals [between them]. I would like to congratulate the National Aquatic Centre, the Irish Waterpolo Association and Swim Ireland for attracting these world-class athletes.”
30 SWORDS GAZETTE 5 May 2011
GazetteSport Sport FastSport Local boxer helps launch assault course challenge PORTMARNOCK pugilist Oisin Fagan was on hand recently to help launch Braveforce’s new assault course event, set to take place on June 11 at Puddenhill Activity Centre. The course, which runs for a challenging 7.5km, will test even the hardiest competitor, and places are limited. Alongside the race, Team Brave Force are organising a festival for competitors and spectators on the grounds of Puddenhill. With Barretstown as their charity partner for the event, Braveforce are calling on potential competitors to register as soon as possible to take part in the event, which is drawing attention from all over Ireland. For more information, including booking for the event, see www.braveforce.ie
Swords BC holding AGM and Fun Day Swords Basketball Club have announced that their annual general meeting will take place on Sunday, May 15 from 3 to 4pm, in conjunction with their annual fun day, that takes place between 2.30 and 5pm in ALSAA on the Old Airport Road. All submissions regarding nominations and resolutions are requested to be with the club secretary as soon as possible. Please send submissions to sbbsecretary@ hotmail.com. The club have said that their website will post any submissions in its news section.
Super soccer day: Swords Celtic host annual marathon SWORDS Celtic held their annual soccer marathon recently at their Balheary base, and a great day out was had by all the children who attended. Bouncing castles, music, face-painting and a barbecue were just some of the events taking place around the club while the kids got stuck into the serious footballing activities. Penalty shoot-outs, crossbar challenges and team games for all ages, from Pee Wees up to 13s, 14s and 15s, took place throughout the day.
CENTENARY SHIELD: FINGAL CC’S BARKER LINES OUT IN DEFENCE
Swords judo gets new venue SWORDS Judo club have announced that they are moving their operation to Xtreme Fitness Ireland at Unit D3, Airside Business Park, Swords. The club, established in Rivervalley in 1992, also has a new set of class times, and is calling on anyone interested in the sport to come along and see for themselves. The juniors and cadets are now training on Tuesdays from 6 to 7pm and Saturdays from 11.30am to 12.45pm, whilst the minors and beginners are training on Wednesdays from 6 to 7pm and Saturdays from 10.30 to 11.30am. For more, see their website, swordsjudo. com
Republic Of Ireland were denied victory in the Centenary Shield when England scored late to take the tie
Local stars for Ireland Q STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@gazettegroup.com
FINGAL Community College’s Michael Barker was among a small group of ever-presents when he was part of the Republic of Ireland team who played in the thrilling conclusion to the Centenerary Shield against England last Thursday at Tallaght stadium. In the game itself, England struck a late winner to overcome the Republic of Ireland in this final Under-18 game of the shield campaign. Chris Lyons put Ireland in front on 26
minutes by pouncing on a defensive mix-up between Jamie Summers and his goalkeeper, Ed Baldy, to tap into an empty net. England should have equalised within a minute when Alex Meaney’s free-kick, whipped in to the far post, was headed wide by defender Joshua White with the goal at his mercy. S l o p py d e f e n d i n g allowed the visitors to get back on terms four minutes before the break when a stray thrown-in was seized upon, allowing Jordan Ayris to cross for Fabio Goncalves De Abreu to
smash home. E n g l a n d ’s r e v i v a l continued seven minutes af ter the break when half-time substitute Jack Wood was left alone inside the box to finish from closerange. Ireland continued to probe and midfielder John Mountney provided a deserved equaliser with a superb low thirty-yard strike that beat Baldy. Murray then pro duced a top-class save at the near post to deny Meaney, while substitute Conor Keddy worked the England goalkeeper with a crisp shot at the opposite
end. With the game stretched, the next goal was going to be vital and England grabbed it seven minutes from the end. Tom Hurley split the Irish defence with a slide-rule pass into the box and on hand to control and finish was the lively De Abreu. There was still time for Ireland to stage a late onslaught but, despite Mountney drilling another of his thunderbolts towards the goal, and Billy Lane’s header clipping the post in the last minute, their best efforts didn’t translate into an equaliser.
REPUBLIC OF IRELAND: Murray (Phobailscoil Iosolde), Barker (Fingal CC), Cooney (Templeogue CC), R. McLaughlin (Carndonagh CS), Matthews (Clonkeen College, Blackrock); Merritt (Loreto CS, Milford), Douglas (St. Brendan’s College, Bray), Chambers (St. Fintan’s, Sutton), Mannion (St. Benildus College), Lyons (Presentation, Bray), Mountney (St. Muredach’s, Ballina). Subs: C. McLoughlin (Scoil Mhuire, Buncrana) for Matthews, Timlin (Scoil Mhuire, Buncrana) for Mannion (both h/t), Molloy (Tullow SC) for R. McLaughlin (68 mins), Keddy (Carndonagh CS) for Merritt (72 mins), Lane (Presentation College, Athenry) for Lyons (80 mins)
5 May 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 31
in association with
SFC ROUND 1: FINGALLIANS FALL TO MAUR’S
CLUB NOTICEBOARD FINGALLIANS CONGRATULATIONS to the Dublin hurl-
Teacher Appreciation Night - Friday,
ers on their first league crown since
May 20: Fingallians’ GAA Club will hold
1939.
a Teacher Appreciation Night to show
Well done to the U-14 footballers who
their appreciation to all the teachers
did the club proud in this year’s Feile,
who have dedicated their time towards
going out in the semi-finals.
the promotion of Gaelic games and in
Our senior and intermediate footballers suffered championship defeats
particular Fingallians GAA club during this academic year. Club golf classic in aid of Ladies and
and now take the back-door route.
Fingallians team-spirit was evident but not enough to defeat a determined St Maur’s
Fins to face stern back-door test DUBLIN SFC ROUND 1 St Maur’s 2-17 Fingallians 1-14 STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@gazettegroup.com
FINGALLIANS face a second north Dublin dust-up in a week after Chris Carthy’s late burst for high-flying St Maur’s condemned the Lawless Park club to the losers’ section of the Dublin senior football championship draw last week. In a game of swinging fortunes at the Naul, F i n g a l l i a n s l o o ke d dead and buried early on before producing a remarkable comeback, powered by Paul Flynn’s goal and some outstanding fielding from new Laois import Brendan Quigley. The goal made it a two-point game going into the final stretch, but too many late frees allowed Carthy to pick off the scores needed to see the AFL2 pacesetters move well clear of the northern lights.
C o n o r M c G u i r e ’s flick, and a Carthy goal soon after the kick-off, put the Rush side 2-5 to 0-2 up after 15 minutes, but Donal Killeen and Ciaran McLoughlin bounced back before Quigley took full advantage of a decent chance to score, to leave four in the difference at the break – the score having advanced to 2-7 to 0-9. W hen Fly nn took in Barry Clarke’s pass, it was well and truly game on when he shot accurately into the net with ten minutes to go to make it 2-13 to 1-14, after Ciaran McLoughlin cleared the bar with a quartet of frees. But, three frees from Carthy and a late point from Chris Moore, saw St Maur’s safely into round two.
Lively It was a lively tie amid a week of intriguing fixtures, and a series of shocks with the nature of the action seeing
many scratching their heads and Paddy Power possibly counting the cost of some generous odds on the supposed weaker sides in the competition coming to nothing as surprise results abounded across the capital. Five-to-one underdogs, St Peregrine’s knocked out Lucan Sarsfields in emphatic fashion with a six-point win in Russell Park, built on Robbie McCarthy’s nine-point haul. Eve n b i g g e r o d d s were stacked against St Anne’s, but they still managed to overcome St Jude’s, while St Brigid’s, finalists in 2010, were beaten at the first round stage by newlypromoted Templeogue Synge Street. With St Mar y’s t h r ow n o u t o f t h e championship, and St Vincent’s falling to St Oliver Plunkett’s/ER, it means quite a few big names could tumble out of contention before even the par-
ticipants in the suddendeath rounds have been decided. Elsewhere.Raheny fell to Na Fianna, David Quinn’s goal proving a major factor in a 1-13 to 0-10 result. That scoreline sets up two ties between Fingallians and Raheny in the next month, the SFC tie due to take place on the Alfie Byrne Road on Saturday, with the next encounter coming in AFL2 on May 21. Both are big ties but for different reasons — the former to avoid any lingering relegation doubts, while the second one is a battle between two sides hoping to claim a promotion play-off place in the league. Since relegation, R a h e ny h ave g o n e unbeaten in four games to date but Fins lie just two points behind them and are currently in sixth place with second to fourth going into playoffs. St Maur’s lead the way with four wins.
Mini Leagues commence on Wednes-
Gents’ adult section is on this Friday,
day, May 11 (hurling) and Friday, May
May 6 at Donabate Golf Club. Please
13 (football). This is a seven-week pro-
contact eoin.cullen@aviva.ie for fur-
gramme for boys and girls aged six to
ther information. After the golf, there
eight years from 6 to 7pm; and for boys
will be a presentation night with all the
and girls aged nine to 11 years from 7
members and friends most welcome
to 8pm.
back in the club.
Primary school hurling blitz on May
Fingallians’ Athletic Section wishes
12 at Gaelscoil Bhrian Boroimhe; St Col-
to thank Gerry Rohan for the first
mcille Boys’ NS and St Cronan’s Senior
of a series of workshops on the long
NS will participate in a hurling blitz.
Jump.
FINGAL RAVENS WELL done to the mentors and
having the pitches in immaculate
selectors of the U-14s who hosted
condition. Well done to our U-14s
the Feile in Rolestown on Saturday.
who lost out in the semis to Plun-
It was a great sucess, thanks to
kett’s after extra-time; well done
Erin’s Isle, O’Toole’s and Kilmacud
to all the lads who took part, you
Crokes for taking part; well done to
are all a credit to your club. Div 5 team play Wanderers at
Erin’s Isle who won their semi-final in Rolestown. A big thanks to all the
home on Sunday morning at 11am. Div 10N team play Parnell’s away
parents who helped out, thanks to Alan and Mick for all the organis-
in the league at 3pm on Sunday.
ing, to Ann and Mary for running
Well done to the ladies’ team on
the shop, and thanks to our ground
a good win away last Wednesday to
staff, Tom, Brendan and Denis, for
Thomas Davis.
ST FINIAN’S (SWORDS) CONGRATULATIONS to the Dublin hurl-
The Easter camps were a big success
ing team on a magnificent victory
again this year with over 200 children
in the National League final. We wish
taking part. Many thanks to James
them well in the upcoming champion-
Devlin and his team for all the hard
ship.
work in organising our biggest camp
A little earlier in the day our minor
ever.
(U-18) hurlers were involved in a thrill-
The weekly club lotto draw is a vital
ing match against Setanta in the Val-
fund raiser for the day-to-day oper-
ley. They lost out by a single point but
ation of the club. The weekly ticket
both sides displayed great skill and
costs as little as €2. If every member
determination.
bought a ticket, it would make a huge
The intermediate football team had a
difference. Standing orders are avail-
good championship win in Parnell Park
able from the club office. You will be
on Thursday.
helping the club.
ST COLMCILLE’S TWO important league games this
The club is looking for mentors to
week for the adult team. On Thursday
help with nursery, U-10s, U-12s teams
evening, an away game vs St Sylvest-
over the coming weeks. All support
er’s in Malahide Castle at 7.15pm. On
welcome.
Sunday, a home game vs St Anne’s at
Congratulations to the Dublin senior
3pm. Training is on Tuesdays at 7pm
hurlers on winning the National League
sharp. Full turn-out of all players
in fine style on Sunday last.
required.
All members are encouraged to pay
U-14 training is on Wednesdays at
membership for the year which is now
6pm - details of next challenge game
overdue. Club Lotto takes place every
to be announced on the day.
Monday at 10pm in the Clubhouse.
ALL OF YOUR SWORDS SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31
RUSH OF BLOOD: Fingallians ousted by high-quality St Maur’s in Dublin SFC: P31
SPORTS AWARDS: April winners revealed: P29
GazetteSPORT
Fingal woman Cliodhna O’Connor, pictured here withMeath’s Grainne Nulty, is looking forward to this weekend’s NFL Division 2 final
MAY 5, 2011
Silverware new target for Jackies Local stars are aiming to return to NFL Division One as champions as they prepare to face Meath on Saturday STEPHEN FINDLATER swordssport@gazettegroup.com
DUBLIN skipper Cliodhna O’Connor is hoping her ladies’ footballers can follow in the footsteps of their hurling counterparts and claim national league glory. It may be a far cry from Croke Park as they take on Meath in Parnell Park on Saturday (3.30pm) in the division two title, with their primary objective already in the tank as they seek to retain their AllIreland senior championship. “Our first aim this year was to qualify back to division one so we’re delighted to have done that by reaching this final. The first job is ticked off.” Despite a string of emphatic wins, the side did endure some nervy moments, falling to Cavan in the group stages, setting up a tricky semi-final against the Breffni county. But they emerged from that battle, 3-12 to 1-9 victors, to set the final date with lessons learned. “Even when we won the semi-final, it was still a
tough match. We had to reassess after Cavan beat us for the first time. We didn’t perform to the best of our abilities and we knew that after the match. It was probably a reminder that we had to make sure we got everything right, no matter what match we were playing. “I suppose we had to assess a little our game-plan and our decision-making. When things weren’t working on the pitch, we were slow to change. “We had to refocus ourselves but all was not lost after we lost to Cavan. We could still qualify for the semi-finals, but we had to concentrate.” It leaves Dublin in an interesting situation. Last year, they claimed ultimate glory despite being relegated from division one. This time, they will enter the Leinster championship on form but against a lower-tier of competition. The Naomh Mearnog woman admits it is “hard to know” which approach is better. “Last year, we had to learn a lot about ourselves very early on. We were making mistakes and it was being shown up straight away.
“This year, we have a different scenario. We’re in a league final; you can take positives from both but you just have to learn from whatever situations you’re presented with and take as much as you can from it.” Her side has also had to learn a slightly new style as Tommy Brown stepped up to take over from long-serving manager, Gerry McGill. “There’s been a few changes to the set-up. Tommy knows what we’ve done the last few years and that’s given us momentum going forward, but also he’s had a few different approaches to what Gerry had. “Angie McNally has come in and she’s doing a lot of coaching, she’s a new voice which freshens things up. There’s probably a nice balance and continuity. “As for Meath, we’re used to playing each other at this stage but a final is a final. The score in the earlier game (2-15 to 1-8) probably didn’t reflect the game. It was a very tough, physical match and I expect nothing less this Saturday.”