Clondalkin GAZET TE FREE
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INSIDE: Prepare for college life with our EEducation d Options P17
Hurling: Round Tower through to inter semi-final Page 31
Soccer: Peamount claim national Umbro U-16 Cup Page 30
ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ..................... 6 DIARY ............................12 ENTERTAINMENT ..........15 BUSINESS .....................16 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 28 SPORT .......................... 29
REACTION: Locals pleased as new take-away in village is rejected Page 8
5,000 crimes handled by local gardai I PAUL HOSFORD
CLONDALKIN and Ronanstown Garda stations dealt with more than 5,000 reported crimes last year, figures from the Central Statistics Office have shown. Overall, Clondalkin station dealt with 2,645 cases in 2011 (or 7.24 cases a day), while Ronanstown dealt with 2,629 cases (or 7.20 cases a day). In terms of serious offences, such as murders, attempted
murders and assaults, Lucan recorded 63 such incidents – 34 less than Clondalkin’s 97, and 80 less than Ronanstown’s 143. The overall numbers show incidents of crime creeping downwards in Clondalkin and Ronanstown, with the total number of offences showing a drop of 14.8% and 2.1% between the most recent figures and those of 2010. Full Story on Page 6
450 thanks: Liffey Valley helps fundraise for Special Olympics TASMIN Foley, marketing manager, Liffey Valley Shopping Centre, was delighted to present a cheque for €450 to Paul Ahearne, fundraising coordinator, Special Olympics Ireland recently. The funds were raised at an “Olympic Challenge” event at the busy
centre, which saw lots of local children paying €1 each to take part in a long jump challenge at the centre’s sand pit. Thanking Tasmin, Paul said: “We very much appreciate the fundraising efforts of Liffey Valley and extend our thanks to all the particpants.”
2 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 August 2012
COUNCIL: REMINDER ON PAYMENT
CHARITY Teen remembered with fundraiser
SDCC’s warning on household charge LOCAL householders have been warned that a government agency is set to proceed with legal action against those who have not paid the household charge. The warning came after it was revealed last weekend that more than €100 million has been received, to date, from 990,459 households nationally in respect of payments of the controversial charge. The Local Government Management Agency has advanced the process of
analysing data to identify householders who have not yet registered and paid the household charge. The first data set was completed and letters were issued by South Dublin County Council (SDCC) in July. A second data set is due for completion in September, with further letters set to be issued by the council. The local authority has legislative power to bring legal proceedings for an offence; however, before any proceedings are com-
menced, those who have not paid will be written to and given the opportunity to pay. Following cuts to its budget last month, SDCC repeated its calls for locals to pay the charge. Payment of the charge, and all penalties due, can be made online at www. householdcharge.ie; by posting an application form to PO Box 12168, Dublin 1; or paid in person at South Dublin County Council offices in Tallaght and Clondalkin.
Alex Mehta’s sister, Sophie, wih Sarah Coakley, Maria Pigott, Denise Collins, Sarah Walsh and Roisin Kearns
Kicking-off to honour Alex A
CLONDALKIN teenager was honoured recently with friends, family members and well-wishers uniting for the Alex Mehta 10-Year Anniversary Tournament. The late teen, who passed away in 2002, was remembered with the special fundraising soccer tournament, which saw teams kicking off to help fundraise for the cancer unit, St John’s Ward, in Our Lady’s
350 wds
Hospital Crumlin. His sister, Sophie, who organised the event, said that as it was the ten-year anniversary of Alex’s passing, the family “wanted to do something to mark this special event”. All entrants were asked to pay €5, with Sophie saying that the family wished to help support the cancer unit – a noble cause that the players were happy to play for.
Padraig Kearns
Stephen Connelly
Niamh Farrelly, Jennifer Cleary, Toni Bonnie and Ciara Duffy. Pictures: Ania Sherlock
Eimear Coleman and Aisling Kennedy
23 August 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 3
POLICING Overall number of offences creep down
Show to celebrate ten years
CSO figures report a drop in local crime I PAUL HOSFORD
phosford@gazettegroup.com
CLONDALK IN and Ronanstown Garda stations dealt with more than 5,000 reported crimes last year, figures from the Central Statistics Office have shown. Overall, Clondalkin Station dealt with 2,645 cases in 2011 – or 7.24 cases a day – while Ronanstown dealt with 2,629 cases – or 7.20 cases a day. While nearby Tallaght and Blanchardstown have claimed the headline figures as the country-wide leaders in burglaries, with 922 and 628 incidents respectively, Clondalkin
and Ronanstown combined came in under both those figures, recording 292 and 253 respectively, for a combined 545 incidents. The number of burglaries reported in Tallaght is large, compared with the number of reports in the rest of the State, with 922 offences investigated by gardai in the area last year, and 377 reported for Waterford. The Central Statistics Office publishes figures for crime trends nationally every quarter. That data has now been made available in an interactive format prepared by the All-Island Research Observatory, part of NUI
Maynooth. In terms of more serious offences, such as murders, attempted murders and assaults, Lucan recorded 63 such incidents – 34 less than Clondalkin’s 97, and 80 less than Ronanstown’s 143. There were 212 controlled drugs offences dealt with by Clondalkin Garda Station, while there were 496 offences under the heading “Damage to Property and the Environment”. Ronanstown had 296 drugs offences, and 417 damages offences reported. Dangerous and negligent acts accounted for 79 of Ronanstown’s reports, and 115 of Clondalkin’s,
CHILDREN
Last year, Clondalkin Garda Station dealt with 2,645 cases – or 7.24 a day
w i t h n e a r- i d e n t i c a l reports of fraud and deception, with 46 and 45 respectively. The two areas combined recorded 635 Public Order Offences, with 328 in Clondalkin. There were 26 robbery, extortion and hijacking offences in Ronanstown, with 50 in Clondalkin, while weapons offenses number 102 in the
area, comprising 55 in Clondalkin and 47 in Ronanstown. Thefts and related offences were by far the most common reported in Ronanstown, with 1,011 of the overall offences coming under that category. Clondalkin reported 952 such offences. The overall numbers show incidents of crime creeping downwards in
Clondalkin and Ronanstown, with the total number of offences showing a drop of 14.8% and 2.1% between the most recent figures and those of 2010. The burglary figure rise is in keeping with the rest of the country, with Ronanstown and Clondalkin posting one-year rises of 29.6% and 20.9%, respectively.
TALENTED Kids Performing Arts School and Agency is celebrating its 10-year anniversary this year with a special celebration show at the Gaiety Theatre in November. Current and celebrity students of all ages will be performing in this variety show, and preparations for the anniversary show means that classes will be recommencing earlier this year. The school will reconvene in Scoil Mhuire School Hall, Clondalkin, on Friday and Saturday, August 24 and 25. Classes in singing, musical theatre, dance, drama and modelling are held for three groups: ages three to six, ages seven to 12 and ages 13 to 18. For further information, contact artistic director, Maureen Ward, at 087 248 0348, or email talentedkids@hotmail. com
4 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 August 2012
OPENING: MOVE IS WELCOMED
BUSINESS: LOCAL FF COUNCILLOR ‘DEVASTATED’ OVER LOSS OF SERVICE
Flybus close after 5 years of service FLYBUS, the airport link that had served the Tallaght and Clondalkin areas for five years, closed its doors on August 4. The company had announced that they would close in a statement two weeks previously, and the loss of the service, which had serviced Newlands Cross and Liffey Valley, en route to The Square in Tallaght and Dublin Airport. Local FF councilor Trevor Gilligan said that he was “devastated” over the closure. “Flybus was a valuable service that connected people in Clondalkin, Tallaght and Liffey Valley with Dublin Airport for over five years. Not only was it used by holiday goers but also employees based in Dublin Airport. “Unfortunately, the only means of public transport to Dublin Air-
port now, is public transport into town and then a bus to Dublin Airport. “Flybus has been going non-stop almost every hour since it’s been established and was a very valuable, efficient and reliable service,” said Gilligan. Councillor Gilligan went on to say that he had personally used the service, and went on to thank the staff of FlyBus for their service over the years. “I, along with many others, have used the service many, many times in the past and, unfortunately, I am disappointed to see it go. Their stop outside the Mill Centre and on the Fonthill Road gave Clondalkinites direct access to and from Dublin Airport. “I would like to thank Flybus and its employees for providing a tremen-
Boots creates 14 jobs at The Mill
dous service to the people of Clondalkin and Tallaght for the past number of years.” The bad news was tempered this week, however, as a new service, Airport Hopper, announced their plans to take up the route. Airport Hopper will have stops at Bewleys Hotel, Mill Centre, Foxdene, Dunawley and Liffey Valley, as well as offering a park and ride service from the Clarion Hotel. In a statement on their website, Airport Hopper said: “It is the intention of Airport Hopper to re-launch this route. The route will remain the same; however the service will be under completely new management and branding. We look forward to being of service to the local communities very soon.”
Baaaa-t’s better: Shearing a sheep to help it cool down and stay healthy THERE was nothing sheepish about this farming expert when he
took part in a shearing event at Corkagh Park recently, where this animal was given a woolly efficient all-over haircut. While lots of families and children looked on in the Pet Farm enclosure near the visitor centre and rose garden, Tom Burnett set to his task, relieving this sheep of his particularly thick coat. Using his expert skills, Tom, a parks staff member based at Sean Walsh Park, soon had the sheep, and another, shorn of their coats, which greatly assist in preventing overheating and controlling disease, with the bonus effect of showing locals a little glimpse of farming work.
BOOTS Ireland last week opened a new store in Clondalkin, creating 14 new full-time and parttime jobs. Located in The Mill Shopping Centre, the store was formally opened by RTE presenter, Brian Ormond, a native of Clondalkin. Commenting on the store’s launch, Debbie Smith, managing director of Boots Ireland said: “We are very pleased to be creating employment in Clondalkin and strengthening the network of Boots’ stores across Dublin, underlining our commitment to long-term investment in Ireland. “We are looking forward to catering for people’s pharmacy and beauty product needs in an accessible, friendly environment.”
Crowd Speaking to the large crowd who gathered at the store opening, Ormond said: “As someone from this area, it is great to see Boots Ireland opening up in Clondalkin, and I look forward to dropping in again over the coming weeks and months,” adding that he was already a proud owner of a Boots Advantage Card. Also participating in the ceremony to mark the launch of the new store was the Deputy Mayor of South Dublin County Council, Councillor Gus O’Connell (Ind), along with local public representatives, Cllr Trevor Gilligan (FF) and Cllr Matthew McDonagh (SF). Cllr O’Connell congratulated staff and spoke of “the strong commitment by Boots Ireland to job creation in local communities in these challenging economic times”. T he new store in Clondalkin will be open on Monday to Wednesday from 9am to 6pm, Thursday and Friday from 9am to 8pm, Saturday from 9am to 6pm, and Sundays from noon to 6pm.
23 August 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 5
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CEREMONY Awards and certificates are presented to local
Bernadette Murray receives her cert from Frank Farrell, YouthReach. Pictures: Leanne Plunkett
Glen Smith
Fergus McNally
Well-deserved praise for locals OTS of locals were presented with Gaisce awards and training certificates at a special ceremony held at Clondalkin YouthReach’s facility at Monastery Road recently. The awards and certs were presented in recognition of their hard work and efforts to complete the require-
L
ments for their awards, with Andrea Nestor presented with The President’s Award, Ireland’s National Challenge Award. They were all congratulated on their achievements by the local YouthReach staff and facilitators, with their community-minded and charitable
spirit evident in the cheque presentation that the Gaisce group made to a representative from the Make A Wish Foundation. They presented her with a cheque for €1,650, with the funds to be used to make wishes come true for children with life-limiting illnesses.
Brian Aspil receives his cert from Ken Smart, YouthReach
Elaine Murray and Charlene Brady receive their cert from Marcella Walsh, YouthReach, centre
23 August 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 7
YouthReach graduates in a ceremony at Monastery Road
Lisa Byrne
Stacey Byrne receives her cert from Lisa Warren, YouthReach
Nadine Knowles
Danielle Timmons
The Gaisce Group present a cheque for â‚Ź1,650 to Clodagh Swords, from the Make A Wish Foundation
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8 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 August 2012
POLITICS
Derek’s dutiful at the Dail LOCAL Fine Gael deputy Derek Keating is top of the class when it comes to Dail attendance. Deputy Keating, along with fellow FG deputy Peter Mathews, boasts a 100% attendance record since the turn of the year. He said attendance was a very important aspect of the work of a TD, but added that it isn’t as easy for rural TDs. “It is obviously more difficult for rural TDs, because of their geographical spread. “There is an advantage in being a Dublin TD. I apply myself to the job as best I can in all its different aspects,” said Deputy Keating. Fine Gael Cork South Central TD, Jerry Buttimer, and Labour Dublin South Central TD, Eric Byrne, also attended 67 out of 68 sitting days.
PLANNING ‘The village already has 17 such outlets’
Permission is denied for new take-away I PAUL HOSFORD phosford@gazettegroup.com
THERE has been a warm welcome for the denial of planning permission for a new take-away in Clondalkin village. Local Fine Gael politicians, Minister Frances Fitzgerald and Councillor Tony Delaney, both praised the refusal by South Dublin County Council of an application for a new take-away at Tower Road. The proposed takeaway would have been located in the old Royal
Bank of Scotland premises, beside Clondalkin Travel and Dolcain Mall in the heart of Clondalkin village. Minister Fitzgerald said that the village was already awash with such units, and that the associated problems would have been too great. She said: “I’m delighted with the decision by the council to refuse permission for this proposal. I believe this refusal is the right decision for Clondalkin village. The village has no shortage of take-away outlets, with
17 already in operation in the immediate vicinity. “Take-aways, unfortunately, often bring with them a myriad of problems, including litter and potential antisocial behaviour. “That’s why Cllr Delaney and I were keen to support the concerns of residents and objected to this application. I also believe that having another take-away so close to existing primary schools would have been a real issue,” she said. “This is the fifth consecutive refusal of planning for proposed take-aways at inappropriate locations in the Clondalkin and Lucan area in recent
Minister Frances Fitzgerald welcomed the denial of planning permission for a new take-away in Clondalkin, saying: “The village has no shortage of take-away outlets”
months, and I’m delighted that residents’ concerns are being listened to by planners. “A granting of permission would not have been in the best interests of either the local environment or residents, and I am glad that the council recognised that,” she said. Cllr Tony Delaney echoed his party colleague’s comments. He said: “I’m very
pleased with the outcome of this campaign and was delighted to support residents on this issue. “Planning decisions need to take into account the views of affected residents. “We have far too many examples of past planning decisions that did not do this, and I welcome the fact that this decision reflects the concerns of residents and businesspeople in this area.
“There is already an excessive number of takeaway outlets in the central area of Clondalkin village. “I counted 17 within Tower Road, Orchard Road, Main Street and Monastery Road. “This [is a] very high number of existing fastfood outlets, and is a major contributory factor to the ongoing issue of litter in the village,” said Cllr Delaney.
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BAG-PACK
Call for help from charity CHARITY Anam Cara is calling on volunteers to help make their next fundraising event a big success. The charity’s national bag-pack day is taking place on Saturday, November 3 at Dunnes Stores throughout Ireland. As this is their big fundraising event for 2013, they still need volunteers. T h i s e ve n t r a i s e s awareness of the organisation and the necessary funds for them to deliver their online and face-toface services to bereaved parents throughout Ireland. The team are looking for people to volunteer in different areas, such as supervising the bag packers for a couple of hours. If you can assist, contact Anam Cara on 01 404 5378, or email c.curley@anamcara.ie or visit www.anamcara.ie for more information.
THEATRE Hollyoaks’ star thrilled to be in Dublin
Bastian buzzes as Chicago comes to town I PAUL HOSFORD
CHICAGO, one of the world’s most successful musicals, returns to Dublin this month, with an all-star cast set to light up the stage of the Bord Gais Energy Theatre. Alongside Bernie Nolan, Duncan James and former Coronation Street star Tupele Dorgu, the cast is ably led by Ali Bastian. The former Hollyoaks’ and The Bill star told the Gazette that she is eagerly anticipating the Dublin dates, having grown fond of our fair city in recent years. “I’m really looking
forward to it. I absolutely love Dublin and have friends in Sligo, and I love it there. Every time I go to visit them, we spend a couple of days in Dublin,” says Ali, who plays Roxie Hart in the 1920’s musical. Based on real-life events back in the roaring 1920s, nightclub singer Roxie Hart shoots her lover and along with cell-block rival, doublemurderess Velma Kelly, they fight to keep from Death Row with the help of smooth-talking lawyer, Billy Flynn. This production of the show opened in England in February and has filled theatres across
Europe since then. “We opened in February and have played to full houses everywhere, and it has been a lot of fun. It’s tough because we do eight shows a week and I’m on stage a lot, but the crew and the cast are just great to work with. “Because I’m on stage so much, it’s very easy to build a lot of momentum.” Having competed on Strictly Come Dancing, Ali is taking to the stage in her first-ever musical, but has found a character in Roxy that she finds is a joy to play. “Roxy is great. She’s so feisty and headstrong
Ali Bastian as Roxie Hart in the hit musical Chicago
that being able to play her is great. “I think I’m a little like her, but I’m not capable of murder! “A lot of people have played her, so I had to try put my own spin on it and avoid trying too hard to copy what had already been done.
“Rox y has a child inside her in a way, she’s very vulnerable.” As for sharing the stage with an Irish legend in Bernie Nolan, Ali says that getting to watch her perform nightly is “extraordinary”. Chicago will play at
the Bord Gais Energy Theatre for two weeks only from August 21 to September 2. Tickets, priced from €20 are on sale now from Ticketmaster. For more information, see http://www. bordgaisenergytheatre. ie.
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SNAPSHOT: THE STORIES OF THE DAY FROM AROUND THE CAPITAL
Fantastic fringe fest set for September GET READY for absolute fun when Absolut Fringe gets under way this September for a spectacular 16-day festival packed with a variety of entertainment. Limerick radicals The Rubberbandits were on hand recently to launch the programme, showcasing what people can expect from the festival. Accompanying the Horse Outsiders at the launch were just a few of the festival’s 90 contributors including aerial acrobatic act, PaperDolls, Ireland’s leading young theatre companies THEATREClub and the hipsters of the Irish theatre world, The Company. This year is the 18th anniversary of the festival, which hosts performances from up to 90 artists with companies presenting 624 events spanning theatre, dance, music, live and visual arts in over 30 venues across Dublin. With its extensive programme of events, we couldn’t possibly name them all, so log on to www.fringefest.com for further information and booking details.
Nestle targets big fund for Jack & Jill The staff at Nestle Ireland have committed themselves to raising over €120,000 for the Jack and Jill Foundation by the end of this year. With less than 20% of the charity’s €2.7 million annual budget coming from the State, every fundraising effort is essential to the running of the foundation, including corporate fundraisers like Nestle Ireland. It is hoped that the €120,000 raised will provide 7,500 hours of vital nursing home care for children who need 24 hours a day support. The “Gift of Time” is how parents describe Jack & Jill’s support. The nationwide service includes nurs-
DIARY ing home visits and care, advice and bereavement support, with the Foundation providing funding for up to 64 hours of home nursing care per month at a cost of up to €1,024 per family. To see how you can help contribute to the Foundation, or to find out more about their work, log on to http:// www.jackandjill.ie/
AWARE to benefit from virtual cycle Last week saw Tesco staff members across Dublin get on their bikes for charity to support the depression support charity, AWARE. Tesco employees cycled the equivalent distance from Dublin to Cork to raise funds for the charity on August 16. Yet the riders didn’t go anywhere during the ride, as they used stationary bikes in stores. All day long, staff members took it in turns to cycle the 160-mile virtual journey. Aware is the national organisation providing information, support and education about depression, a condition which affects more than 450,000 people in Ireland at any given time. The focus in this year’s partnership between Tesco Ireland and AWARE is on teenage depression. Depression affects many teenagers in Ireland and funds raised through the partnership will enable Aware to deliver Beat the Blues, Aware’s free secondary schools’ programme, to approximately 16,000 additional teenagers this year. For more information, see www. aware.ie
23 August 2012 GAZETTE 13
FESTIVAL International race ends in Dublin
The Polish barquentine, Pogoria, moors for the night in Dun Laoghaire, with the vessel’s early arrival last weekend marking the first Tall Ship to reach Dublin ahead of this weekend’s festival celebrations. Picture: Geraldine Woods
Hoist the mainsail for arrival of the Tall Ships I LAURA WEBB
D U BL I N r e s i d e n t s should get ready to set sail when the spectacular Tall Ships Race Festival arrives in Dublin’s Docklands this month. Families can end the summer with a bang with this action-packed, free festival, that marks the last leg of the international Tall Ships Race 2012. People are invited to join the crew for what organisers are describing as the biggest party
of the summer when the north and south quays of the Docklands come alive over four days with music, children’s activities in a special Family Zone, a food theatre, markets, watersports, street performances and Dublin’s first-ever floating cinema. Literar y trails and art exhibitions that celebrate personal stories and memories of the city’s seafaring community and life on the docks are also part of the programme.
The capital is the last port for this visually stunning sailing race, with 60 magnificent ships taking part. The fleet set sail at the Northern French port of St Malo in early July, and will have raced across the Bay of Biscay to Lisbon in Portugal and Cadizin Spain before its arrival in Dublin. One highlight of the festival will be the Crew Parade on Saturday, August 25, which will see 1,500 sailors parade through the city to a
prize-giving ceremony. The weekend will end in spectacular fashion with the Parade of Sail on Sunday, August 26, when all the ships will leave port together with their sails hoisted. So, whether you’re a seafarer or a landlubber, there is no chance the family won’t enjoy this festival, which takes place from Thursday, August 23 until Sunday, August 26. For further details, see www.discoverireland. ie.
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14 GAZETTE 23 August 2012 Commercial Feature
The benefits of going private at the Rotunda Private Clinics
Darina Martin, Patient Services
FITNESS: HEALTHY NEW PROGRAMME FOR MUMS AND MUMS-TO-BE
Comfortable waiting room used by patients
Manager
AT Rotunda Private Clinics the patient always comes first, and the professionals at the Clinic are committed to ensuring that every pregnancy is as comfortable and incident-free as possible Information and continuity are crucial for a comfortable pregnancy. This is why Rotunda Private
“Most of our patients will do a pregnancy test at home,” said Darina Martin, head of Patient Services at Rotunda Private Clinics. “But many of them come for a scan at six, seven or eight weeks, just to see that everything is ok.” Additionally, many women who visit the Private Clinics could be classified as “high risk” – they may have undergone a miscarriage in the past, or may have conceived through IVF – and in these cases it is hugely reassuring for them to be able to see at the earliest stage possible exactly how the pregnancy is progressing. These early scans are generally available only to Private patients. But what truly sets the Private experience apart is the fact that the parents will be dealing with the same consultant throughout the pregnancy, allowing them to develop a relationship with the third most important person in the pregnancy
Clinics offer not only the reassurance of dealing with the same consultant throughout the pregnancy, but also early scans to reassure mothers and fathers that everything is progressing as it should be.
process. “People want to get to know the person who will be delivering the baby,” said Martin. “A good relationship with the consultant will ensure that they are comfortable with talking about how they will deliver the baby – section, induction or natural - and what expectations they will have post-delivery.” Of course, there is also the important issue of accommodation (especially if the mother is in for a longer stay). Private patients are “99%” guaranteed a private room following delivery, and the Lillie Suite (Rotunda’s private postnatal unit) offers something close to a hotel experience, with excellent menu options and comfortable, clean rooms. The only difference is that you will generally leave this “hotel” with more people than you came in with!
Stephanie Sinnott, founder and personal trainer at Baby Body Fit
Stay in shape during and after your pregnancy I NATALIE BURKE
THE LATEST innovation in pre-natal and post-natal fitness to hit Ireland, Baby Body Fit, has already proved to be hugely popular, with mums-to-be and new mothers rushing to attend classes across Dublin. Baby Body Fit is a new fitness regime which promises to help both pregnant women and new mums to get in shape, and stay in shape, both during and after pregnancy. Baby Body Fit is the brainchild of young mum, Stephanie Sinnott, from Dublin, who, having had her own daughter in 2008, struggled to feel fit and healthy afterwards. Following some research, and realising her fitness programme should have started earlier in her pregnancy, Stephanie went back to college and retrained as a fitness instructor. Recognising a demand for her speciality, Baby
Body Fit was launched just over a year ago, with the aim of helping women to get through the maternity cycle while maintaining a good level of fitness and staying healthy. The unique fitness programme is the only course in Ireland to provide a light, safe, and effective cardio workout during pregnancy, combined with yoga and pilates exercises, and then follow-up with simple but effective sessions on how to lose weight and build energy after having the baby. According to Stephanie, Baby Body Fit is completely unique in that it takes women from early pregnancy days, right through to toddler years, providing them with a safe and effective exercise routine for during and after the pregnancy. “I know from personal experience how hard it can be to do this, so we set out Baby Body Fit to
show women how to get fit and lose weight, while actually enjoying the exercise and making new friends at the same time,” she explained. Structured into three exercise modules, Prepare, Regain and Maintain, Baby Body Fit caters for all levels of fitness. Course participants are encouraged to “bring their bumps to the pre-natal class, and their babies to the post-natal class”, with infants often slumbering in the buggy while mum works out nearby. Classes are managed in Dublin by Stephanie, while a number of qualified fitness instructors are now employed to cater for demand with locations in Dublin City Centre, Swords, Lucan, Cabinteely, Clontarf, Sandymount, Stepaside, the Phoenix Park, and Firhouse. Fur ther details of courses and venues are available at www.babybodyfit.ie.
23 August 2012 GAZETTE 15
GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT
John’s girlfriend (Mila Kunis) tries to get him to let go of his childhood friend, Ted, but it’s not that easy...
The bear don’t care Teddy bears are supposed to be cute but this one is something else entirely, and that’s all part of the fun I NIALL BERMINGHAM
HAVING grown up with a mother who never really had any appreciation for crass or immature comedy films, shock is the only word I have to describe how I felt upon hearing that she found Ted to be one of the funniest things she had ever seen. Honestly, I was in a state of disbelief. I decided I had to see this film and find out how it had made the woman who hates Jim Carrey and wouldn’t be caught dead watching Family Guy nearly die from laughter. Conceived by and starring Family Guy creator Seth MacFarlane, Ted is indeed a crass, immature comedy but with some heart and soul thrown in. The story follows John Bennett (played very well by Mark Wahlberg) and his magical little
FILM OF THE WEEK: Ted #### (16) 106 mins Director: Seth MacFarlane Starring: Seth MacFarlane, Mark Wahlberg, Mila Kunis, Giovanni Ribisi, Joel McHale, Patrick Warburton, Matt Walsh, Bill Smitrovich, Patrick Stewart
OUR VERDICT:
Crude, immature and vulgar but undeniably lovable Ted is a film for fans of Seth MacFarlane and maybe for some people who don’t hold him in high regard. This is that special thing in cinema that doesn’t happen too often: a pleasant surprise. Just don’t bring your young children to it.
teddy bear, Ted (voiced by MacFarlane). We see how the two best friends first got together when John was just a young unpopular child growing up friendless in Boston. A fter receiving the bear as a Christmas gift, little John makes a wish that his new plush toy could really talk to him. During the night, a little Christmas magic is worked and John has a brand new sentient furry friend. T he t a l k ing bea r qu ick ly becomes a household name, making appearances on late
night television shows and posing for magazine covers. Cut forward 27 years and we find John and Ted have, unsurprisingly, grown up. Physically at least. John’s successful girlfriend (Mila Kunis) is a little sick of John’s reluctance to move on and achieve something with his life and asks that Ted moves out so that John and herself can live together alone. It ’s not a hu gel y original storyline but it doesn’t really need to be as the comedy is fantastic and the relationships
b e t we e n cha r a c t er s prove enough to keep you interested. It’s quite clear that MacFarlane hasn’t been spreading himself too thin with three television shows and this film to work on. Right from the outset we see that the two main characters have brilliant chemistry together which is a testament not only to how Marky Mark has improved as an actor but also to the special effects team who have done a brilliant job bringing Ted to life. Technology has come an aw fully long way since Whiskers the cartoon cat shows up in Last Action Hero. Wahlberg isn’t the only actor showing their talent in this film as Kunis also gives a brilliant performance as worried girlfriend Lori. Giovanni Ribisi is genuinely creepy as lifelong
Ted fan and stalker, and Joel McHale shines as Lori’s over-interested boss. Along the way we are treated to some fantastic cameos, starting with Patrick Stewart as the narrator and some brilliant surprises that I’d rather not ruin for you. MacFarlane brings a lot of the people he worked with on his television outings to the film too. Some of the voiceactors have bit parts here and it was co-written by his Family Guy staff. All in all this is a solid film. It’s up there with the best comedies released over the last few years, however a weak ending and a handful of jokes that didn’t quite hit the mark stop this from being a classic. Definitely a three-star film. All the Flash Gordon references however, compel me to bump it up to a four-star rating.
16 GAZETTE 23 August 2012
GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS
Supported by AIB
Interview: Educating the next generation of local actors, Jill Anderson
OPTION FOR A COLLEGE PAYMENT Q – MY PARENTS are not well off; even the registration fee for my college (of €2,250) is beyond them. What options do I have, and what security will be asked for by any lender? Peter, Rathfarnham A - FIRST of all, well done on reaching third-level. One recent survey estimated the total cost of third level education, without fees, can run to €42,000! So, for those new parents out there, if you invest the current monthly Child Benefit of €140 into an account from birth to your child’s 18th birthday, and at a net interest rate of 3.5% each year, you will have accumulated €42,000 – and that’s just for one child ! With the current recessionary times, it is not surprising parents cannot find the money for such necessary expense. They may, however, still be required to guarantee a loan facility with certain lenders. Depending on your degree course, lenders may not require a parental guarantor. One recent development has been the launch of a loan facility for DCU students from Bank of Ireland. Parents must apply first and, while the usual parameters for these loans are required, it is expected all students will be approved. What is unusual with this loan is: - Interest rate is 5.1% (best unsecured loan rate on the market); - If, after graduation, the loan has not been repaid, the debt transfers over to the student and they become responsible for it – the rate also changes to 9.7%, compared to their normal rate of 14.02%; - The loan is up to €9,000 – covering up to four years’ registration fees (payable annually and directly to the college at the start of each college year); - These loans will probably become available throughout all third level colleges (15 have already signed up, and 10 more are in discussion); and - If the parents want to pay off on a yearly basis, the repayment on €2,250 over 12 months would be €192.72 per month. Meanwhile, the Higher Education Authority is presently putting together proposals on funding for the Department of Education, and hope to have a report published before the end of the summer covering student loans, graduate tax and a return to fees of at least €5,000 per annum. Happy studying! Contact John with your money questions at
jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor
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Staging a great local enterprise IT SEEMS that the acting bug has been busy biting in South County Dublin recently, with national and international success for local actors, most notably with Andrew Scott winning the BAFTA for best supporting actor in the acclaimed BBC production of Sherlock. Helping young thespians in the area is Jill Anderson, who runs the School of Speech and Drama, which operates from the school hall of Our Lady’s National School in Ballinteer on Monday, after school, and on Saturday mornings. Anderson trained at the Leinster School of Music and Drama and is LLSMD-qualified. All aspects of speech and drama are covered at the school, including Mime & Movement, Speech Training & Projection, Characterisation, Improvisation and Public Speaking. Students from the age of four upwards attend the upbeat speech and drama classes and, according to Anderson: “Dublin’s got talent. So many of our students have never acted before coming to classes, but it’s obvious that there’s a lot of raw talent out there, just waiting to be trained. “The enthusiasm of the children is amazing, and really makes my job very easy. They love to act and participate in the many different activities which are specially designed to encourage confidence and creativity. “Furthermore, it enables them to interact with other children in a fun environment, developing their communicative and social skills,” says Anderson. Further information on all classes and activities is available by contacting Anderson at 087 219 6516, or by emailing jillspeechanddrama@gmail.com.
Founder of the School of Speech and Drama, Jill Anderson
Q&A Q: When you were a kid, what did you want to be? A: I wanted to be a farmer, but I grew out of that notion when I realised that high heels were not farmyard-friendly
Q: What was your first job? A: A receptionist in an estate agent’s
Q: And your first pay cheque? A: Enough to save up for a trip to London to see the musical, Hairspray – magical, and worth the hours spent photocopying
Q: Have you ever done a job you loathed? A: See above Q: When did you start your present job? A: I founded my school three years ago, but as an actress you’ve got to allow me to point out that this is a vocation – my parents tell me that I’ve been acting out since I was very little
Q: What is the best thing about your job? A: Getting to do something I
love and meeting interesting, quirky and talented people who also inhabit this world
Q: What sport can you play? A: Hockey, netball and, eh – is yoga a sport?
a diverse mix of people, from Lady GaGa to Julian Lloyd Webber
Q: Have you achieved anything that you once thought you could not pull off? A: I always dreamt about
Q: What habits would you like to lose? A: Being a perfectionist
Q: What was your last Tweet/ status update? A: Anyone out there who can
Q: What is your guilty music/ TV or movie pleasure? A: I love 80s music and musi-
make a Grease Lightning car?
having my own drama school – dreams do come true, but with a lot of hard work and effort
Q: What part of your working day do you ‘delegate’? A: None – I’m all hands on deck
Q: What’s currently on your desk that shouldn’t be? A: An empty Galaxy wrapper – enough said
Q: Is there anything about yourself that you would like to set the record straight on? A: Yes – not all of my salary goes on shoes (boyfriend, please take note!)
Q: What sport do you follow? A: Anything that Ireland is involved with – especially rugby and soccer
cals; I can generally be caught humming songs from either
Q: Who best represents modern Ireland – David Norris or Jedward? A: Depends on who you’re asking; for under-20s, definitely Jedward
Q: Describe your dream meal? A: Beans on toast, and champagne, of course!
Q: Who would you rather have dinner with – Enda Kenny or Dame Edna? A: Dame Edna all the way Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously? A: There are tons of great
Q: What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/ iPad? A: In music, I’m listening to
stores in Dublin city centre and Dundrum Town Centre – that’s where you’ll find me
Grease, Duran Duran (yes, I know!); for pictures, I have lots of shots of my new puppy, Harvey
Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own? A: Four wardrobes full, on the
Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook? A: Anyone who interests me –
Q: What was your worst holiday experience? A: A monkey on my head,
last count
and swimming with snakes in
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AUGUST 2012
OPTIONS
EXPLORING LEARNING
A golden opportunity: ITB’s diverse activities can enrich every student’s spirit
Choosing the right path: Guidance for students of all ages, and at all levels of learning
A fashionable fundraiser: Sallynoggin College helps disadvantaged women
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18 GAZETTE 23 August 2012
EDUCATION LOCALMATTERS
OPTIONS
Sound advice
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View your time in college as a building block towards the life that you want to lead when you graduate
SO, you have accepted the course offer that you have been working towards over the last few years in secondary school. Well done and congratulations, you are well on your way to planning your entry into the adult world of work. In selecting your course, you will have been advised on ensuring that the course choice was in a field that you have a genuine interest in, as this is necessary to ensure that you are completely engaged over the duration of the course. It would be inadvisable to select a course in a topic that you think you might like, without researching what the course content involved. In a lot of cases, you might be more interested in some mod-
ules than others and that is normal. Your overall interest in the core subject should encourage you to engage in the modules --------------------------
The main difference that you will notice between secondary and third level is that there will be no one organising your day --------------------------
that are less appealing and keep an eye on the bigger picture. The main difference that you will notice between secondary and third level is that there
will be no one organising your day to ensure that you attend lectures and complete assignments on time, what you would have called homework up to now. As young adults, you will be expected to manage your time effectively, attend lectures at the appointed time and place and submit assignments in the correct format, usually electronically, using a system like Moodle. You can also expect to be given group assignments, where you will be expected to work with other students in preparing a piece of research or writing a report. This is excellent preparation for the world of work where group or team work is the norm. You will learn how to interact with diverse
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23 August 2012 GAZETTE 19
EXPLORING LEARNING
for college first years ANDREW MULLIGAN, career coach and graduate of DIT, presents some advice and words of encouragement for all students entering their first year of life in college personalities in these situations and how to divide up the task between the group members. You will also quickly learn to spot the freeloaders, those who let the other group members do the work but share the credit. Your lecturers should explain how to deal with these situations. When you are assigned to a group, consider volunteering to be the leader, as the experience of leading people is highly sought after in the workplace. Keep a log or diary of your achievements in col-
lege as this information is valuable when constructing a CV. Record the details of the task that you were assigned, what action you took in completing the task and what was the end result. Employers will be interested in your individual contribution and it is much more valuable and impressive to be able to say, truthfully and with confidence, that you took this action and achieved the result. View your time in college as a building block towards the life that you want to lead when you
graduate. You should be in college because you want to be, as college life would be very difficult otherwise. Take part in college activities and join groups to widen your network of colleagues, some of whom will become lifelong friends. The bonds built through sharing an experience like college can be very strong and rewarding. A strong circle of friends can be a great source of support when the inevitable difficult times come along. Don’t despair in the tough times – if you are
coping with a personal difficulty or struggling with the course content. There is always help at hand and people genuinely willing to help you along. You won’t be the first or last student to need help and support and remember that, in the words of a famous song, “All Things Must Pass”. If you do find that you are not happy with your course choice, don’t give up. Talk to the college and see what alternatives are available. There are always other options and you will have demon-
strated maturity in recognising that you need to change. You will be supported and guided along the way. Everyone wants you to succeed. Finally, enjoy the journey.
Andrew Mulligan is the founder of Irish Career Resolutions Ltd. He is a fully qualified career coach holding a Diploma in Career Coaching, awarded by Dublin Institute of Technology. He is also a fully qualified trainer, holding a Certificate in Train The Trainer.
Going through financial difficulty, try the student assistance fund A LITTLE-KNOWN form of financial help for struggling students is the Student Assistance Fund. This fund was set up to lend financial assistance to full-time higher education students going through financial difficulties while in college. If you find yourself in such a situation, you can apply for student assistance to help with either temporary or more long-term financial difficulties. The fund is used mainly in emergency situations and in addition to the student grant. Each year, the State allocates a certain amount of student assistance funding to all publicly funded higher education colleges based on the size of the college’s full-time student population. To avail of this help, students can make an application in their college for assistance under the fund. The fund is, however, only open to university students and is not available in further education or PLC colleges. To find out whether you may be eligible for the fund you need to be aware of the main conditions of the programme, which are outlined on their website at www.studentfinance.ie, which also contains a wide range of information on the various types of funding and financial assistance available to students throughout their time in further and higher education.
20 GAZETTE 23 August 2012
EDUCATION
OPTIONS
Dr Trevor Duffy and Conor McNamee, at the opening of the renovated Court Yard Garden at the Connolly Hospital in Blanchardstown, created by First Year BSc Horticultural
Joshua Richardson
Students from ITB
and Ailish O’Brien at the
“Coder Dojo” at ITB, learning about coding, developing
ITB lecturer Rachel Freeman
websites, apps, programs, games and much more
medal in the Education category for its colourful stand at the
with horticulture
students Philip Hughes and Christopher Mills, celebrating Bloom Festival in the Phoenix Park
| 12 MONTHS WITH MANY DIVERSE EVENTS AT ITB |
So much more than just college courses ITH students accepting CAO offers and deciding what college to head to this week, it seems a fitting time to give an insight to what life at a college such as the Institute of Technology Blanchardstown (ITB) offers – aside from education, of course. This past year has seen ITB connect with the local community by hosting events for children in the area, such as robotics courses and “Coder Dojos”. The college’s Digital Media students held an exhibition of the top-quality work that they are turning out year on year, showcasing their film, animation and photography skills. In the garden, ITB has had a great year, competing with distinction once again at the prestigious Bloom Festival, as well as opening a memorial garden at Connolly Hospital. The institute also welcomed delegates from the Hubei University of Economics, Wuhan, China when they came to visit the campus to further develop relations between the two colleges for academic collaboration.
W
Minister Joan Burton, at the opening of the Garden at Connolly Hospital
Mathieu Chardon, Digital
in Blanchardstown,
Media student at ITB’s
created by First Year
first-ever end of year
BSc Horticultural
exhibition in Creative
Students from ITB
Digital Media
23 August 2012 GAZETTE 21
EXPLORING LEARNING
Derek Browne, Lucy Hiseman and David Oleman
of St Philip’s
School, Mountview, at the ITB Robotics Summer School
Mary Meaney, president, ITB and Hu Maocheng, president, Hubei University for Nationalities, following the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement between the Blanchardstown and Anshi universities
ITB being awarded a gold
Niamh Reid Burke, Sports Management
Traditional singer Jerry O’Reilly at the
and Coaching student at ITB, and Irish
opening of the renovated Court Yard
International Women’s Soccer player,
Garden at the Connolly Hospital in
and an Olympic Torch Relay bearer
Blanchardstown
22 GAZETTE 23 August 2012
EDUCATION | FINANCING COLLEGE |
OPTIONS
Making
A range of exclusive offers available to students from Stuff4students.ie
I DIARMUID HAUGHIAN
BEING a student can be hard on the pockets, so banks try to offer some great deals on banking and finance college years – AIB has a specialised website just for that. Stuff4students.ie is a student website that is all about the stuff students need. Anyone who is an AIB Student Plus account customer can avail of the offers available on the site. There are exclusive vouchers, weekly giveaways, discounts and treats, as well as some great spot prizes. It also gives the inside track on managing your finances by helping out with any money worries or queries. There is also a dedicated section on helping students find the right accommodation while in education. The career’s corner gives advice on making a CV, interviewing techniques and general advice on how you can plan your life after college. If you’re not already an AIB Student Plus Account holder, you can avail of what www. stuff4students.ie has to offer. For information about the AIB Student Plus account, log on to www.aib.ie
CAREER guidance practitioner Diarmuid Haughian (MA Career Guidance), the founder of careerguidance.ie, provides some useful insight into college life and ref lective career choices for both prospective students and lifelong-learning students. What advice do you have to students going into sixth year who might be worried about making the right college choice?
Career guidance practitioner, Diarmuid Haughian
First of all, there is no need to worry. Some students take the scenic route in life, which can be even more rewarding than the professional
who ticks all the boxes. The word career originates from the words race and journey; as such, we are all on different journeys. It is difficult to be fully “self-aware” at 17 years of age, and making the right decision can feel like a mammoth undertaking at such a relatively young age Keep an open mind early in sixth year and remember you can always change your CAO form in May, so there is no need to panic; always consult a qualified career guidance practitioner. Do you advise students to choose a college course that is more likely to provide a job or would you advise
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EXPLORING LEARNING
the right choice for college them to do something they love? Students should be aware of the employment prospects and challenges that certain sectors are facing; research must be carried out on labour market information and future forecast upon graduation. Regardless of what course of study you undertake, the experience and personal aptitude displayed within your period of study will be an invaluable asset which can be applied to a transferable career direction upon graduation. Research publications like FORFAS or The Expert Group on Future Skills Needs and make a decision with the aid of
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a guidance practitioner factoring your interests, vales, aptitudes and employment prospects.
‘Students should be aware of the employment prospects and challenges that sectors are facing’
Is it a bad idea to take up a college course just for the sake of going to college and do you advise students to have an interest in the course before accepting? Yes, however, before any decision is made, do your research. Contact the head of the department, go to an open day, have questions prepared — what exactly is the course content, how is the course examined (coursework/exams), is there a work placement — speak to some current students of the course; what career paths did
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Diarmuid Haughian
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ing. Communicate with your lecturers and don’t be afraid to raise any issues or concerns you may have; modern day learning can be fun and enjoyable. Research and understanding the sector is key in making college choices
the past students undertake, what are the job prospects? The key is to research and know that you are making a sound decision. What advice do you
have for mature students, as going back to college at an older age can be daunting? Maintain a strong relationship with your lecturers, they understand that
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you have been away from education and that the educational landscape has changed drastically over the past number of decades. They are there to help and facilitate your learn-
What is careerguidance.ie and what does it offer students? careerguidance.ie allows you to make the most informed educational and career decision and if you are unsure of what career direction you should take
you can make a face-toface appointment nationwide to see a qualified and impartial career guidance practitioner. The website can manage your career, search courses at all levels, research jobs, reinvent your CV and make an appointment nationwide to see a career guidance practitioner. Diarmuid Haughian MA Career Guidance, MSc., BSc., QCG. is the founder and MD of careerguidance.ie.
24 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 August 2012
EDUCATION | ALL HALLOWS COLLEGE |
OPTIONS
| DUNDRUM |
A more personal and intimate experience STARTING your college career can be daunting, but a little faith and belief goes a very long way, as Niamh Kavanagh discovered when she started her higher education at All Hallows College, part of Dublin City University. “I decided to study Theology and Philosophy because I was always interested in questions to do with faith, religion and the meaning of life. “I found that throughout my four years studying at All Hallows College my questioning and thinking around these and many other concepts was always encouraged,
and I found that the lecturers’ presence in the college inside and outside the classroom was always friendly and welcoming.” All Hallows specialises at undergraduate level in the teaching of theology, philosophy, psychology, and English literature, as well as programmes in personal and professional development. The college is a relatively small, intimate and friendly one, with smaller class sizes in relation to other universities and colleges allowing for a great deal of interaction among both students and
staff, which the college encourages. “W hat was exceptional was the welcome I received when I became a part of the student body at All Hallows College. “From the moment that I stepped onto the campus I knew I had made the right decision, and, I received encouragement support and a sense of community from students and staff alike,” said Naimh. All degrees from All Hallows College are validated and accredited by DCU. For further information, visit: www.allhallows.ie
New social networking initiative is launched
Growing skills: Launch of programme PICTURED at the launch of Digital Skills Academy’s new WebElevate programme was Jamie McCormick, online game development company Gala Networks Europe and Paul Dunne, CEO, Digital Skills Academy (centre) with WebElevate participants Ronan Hurley and Elaine Kinahan. The new Government-funded programme, encourages jobseekers to upskill to take advantage of booming digital technology sector – over 4,500 jobs have been announced in the sector since the start of the year. Visit www.webelevate.ie.
THE College of Further Education in Dundrum has recently launched a new social networking initiative on their website, www.cfedundrum. com. The online service allows visitors and students to interact with all support services within the college. In addition, students can now access the college’s cloud applications, with the support of Google, which includes email, eLearning, and a calendar application. Visitors can access the news updates section, which provides all the latest college news. A spokesman for the college said: “We continue to renew our online services to students and the community at large, and are delighted with the result.” College of Further Education in Dundrum is a provider of post-Leaving Certificate and adult retraining courses in the areas covering Dundrum, Ballinteer, Rathfarnham, Churchtown, Sandyford and further afield. The college has an open and supportive approach to education and training, and students can avail from a wide variety of courses leading to FETAC certification in the areas of business, computing/ multimedia, health and community care, and creative studies. The college has established many links with Higher Education establishments over the years. In addition to its innovative service, students and visitors can also keep up to date on the wider social networking sites, including Facebook (www.facebook. com/furthereducationdundrum) and Twitter (www.twitter.com/cfedundrum).
23 August 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25
26 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 August 2012
EDUCATION | BUSINESS TIME |
OPTIONS
| GOING BACK |
Dorset offering two degree scholarships DORSET College is this year recognising its 30th year in education, and to celebrate that, is offering a full-time and a part-time scholarship on its recently launched Bachelor of Business (HETAC) Level 7 Degree. The Bachelor of Business (HETAC) Degree programme is a new programme which aims to assist students in enhancing their ability to work within today’s complex global business environment, with the goal of giving them a competitive advantage. This programme is designed to extend knowledge and broaden students’ skill bases, with a clear focus
on practical application. In addition to the new Bachelor of Business degree, the college is offering a range of full-time programmes which also includes the ACCA Diploma in Accounting and Business, which provides a comprehensive range of subject areas, providing excellent preparation for a variety of careers in a wide range of business organisations. Speaking about the offering at Dorset College, a spokesman said: “Our lecturers have a unique blend of academic expertise and real world business acumen, resulting in a truly dynamic classroom atmosphere. The pro-
grammes are designed to meet the needs of industry and provide excellent career and academic opportunities. “At Dorset College, we provide high quality, career focused and globally recognised leadingedge educational programmes to domestic and international students, delivered in a dynamic environment by a highly qualified and industry experienced team of professionals. “We focus on smaller class numbers and quality of education.” For further details contact the college at 01 830 9677, or log on to www. dorset-college.ie
Return to education assistance is available
In tune: Launching Innovation at DIT MINISTER for Research and Innovation, Sean Sherlock TD, is
pictured with Martin Gallagher (left) and Dan Barry of Riffstation, the ultimate guitar software, at the launch of Innovation at DIT, a major DIT and Innovation Showcase, taking place on campus in Aungier Street, Dublin 2. The showcase highlighted the diversity and positive social and economic impact of DIT research activity.
MORE and more people are opting to go back to college as mature students and it has never been a more appropriate time to upgrade or retrain to give yourself an edge in a sparse jobs market. According to the Department of Social Protection, if you missed out on educational opportunities when you were younger, or if you need to update your skills, there is plenty on offer, including a wide range of secondchance education programmes for unemployed people. One of these is the Back to Education programme, which covers full-time second- or thirdlevel courses, and which ensures that you continue to get your social welfare payment while involved in education. The third-level option comprises a course approved by the Department of Education and Skills at any university or third level college for grant purposes, and is recognised by the Higher Education and Training Awards Council (HETAC). If you are starting a course, you can apply for the Back To Education Allowance (BTEA), which applies to undergraduate courses and any postgraduate course of study that leads to a Higher Diploma (HDip) qualification in any discipline, or a Graduate Diploma in Education (primary and secondary teaching). To qualify, you must have been accepted onto a qualifying course, be over 21 for undergraduate courses and over 24 for postgraduate and have been receiving a qualifying social welfare payment. For more, see www. welfare.ie/EN/Schemes/ BackToEducation/Pages/ btea.aspx
23 August 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 27
EXPLORING LEARNING | SALLYNOGGIN COLLEGE |
Raising your creative colours at Sallynoggin I STAFF REPORTER
SALLYNOGGIN College recently held its Fashion Industry Practice fashion show in aid of Dress for Success, the international not-forprofit women’s organisation, at the Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire. The show proved a huge success and a lot of fun for those who took part on the catwalk and behind the scenes in putting the show together, and raised funds for
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the organisation which promotes the economic independence of disadvantaged women by providing professional attire, a network of support and the career development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. The Fashion Industry Practice course is only one of the courses available at Sallynoggin College, with this being the first year that the course has run. The course caters for those who wish to work
at the cutting edge of the fashion industry, whether as a stylist, fashion buyer, in fashion event management or as a fashion journalist. The college has also recently launched its inaugural theatre studies course, which is aimed at those who wish to develop a career in the theatre and the performing arts. Other courses available at the college, which is located near Dun Laoghaire, range from Creative Studies
Sallynoggin College students backstage at the recent fashion show, styled by Jessica Campbell
in Art, Design, Fashion, Dance, Theatre Studies and Photography to Childcare, Tourism, Social Studies, Leisure Management and Sports Therapy, among others. All courses are certified by national and/or
international examining bodies, and have strong links with industry and the professions. Sallynoggin College is well known as a centre of excellence and innovation in its field, with a lively atmosphere, and
an emphasis on developing individual strengths. Entr y is by direct application to the College of choice, and usually involves an interview. Further Education courses are grant-funded (www.studentfinance.ie),
and applications are welcomed from all, including adults who wish to return to education. For more information, log on to www.scs.dife. ie or contact the college at (01) 2852997 or email reception@scfe.ie
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SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL
Unit 8, Fonthill Industrial Park, Fonthill Road, Dublin 22, County Dublin I, Vincent Collins (Service Matters Ltd) am applying for permission for retention of mezzanine first floor of area 193sqm at Unit 8, Fonthill Industrial Park, Fonthill Road, Dublin 22, County Dublin (SD03A/0954). The planning application may be inspected or purchased at the offices of South Dublin County Council, County Hall,Town Centre, Tallaght, Dublin 24 during its public opening hours of Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 4:00pm. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to South Dublin County Council on payment of a fee of €20 within 5 weeks of receipt of the application by South Dublin County Council and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions or may refuse to grant permission. Signed: Vincent Collins (Applicant)
Lin Huang is applying for Permission for retention for Minor changes to existing hipped roof to existing two storey semidetached house. Roof altered from “hipped” roof to “Dutch hipped roof”. Changes included fitting of 4 no. velux rooflights, 3 no. to existing rear roof pitch and 1 no to altered side hip roof pitch. Minor internal alterations included fitting of “access stair” from first to attic floor levels and ancillary minor works. (Enforcement Notice ENF. S6998) at 13 Silverberry, Finnstown Abbey, Lucan County Dublin. This application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of South Dublin County Council during its public opening hours of 9am - 4pm, Mon-Fri, and a submission or observation may be made to South Dublin County Council in writing and on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by South Dublin County Council of the application.
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23 August 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 29
GazetteSPORT
GLORIOUS GAA: All the best GAA stories from around the city: Page 31
SUPPORT YOUR COLOURS BALL: O’SHEA AND LONG LAUNCH ANNUAL EVENT IN PORTMARNOCK
Annual ball set to raise €40,000 for Temple Street sport@gazettegroup.com
TEMPLE Street Hospital were joined by John O’Shea, and Shane Long at Portmarnock golf club this week to announce the details of Support Your Colours Ball, supported by Mercury, in aid of Temple Street Children’s University Hospital. Support Your Colours Ball, supported by Mercury, will be held this year on Friday, September 21, in the Hogan
Suite, Croke Park. The evening will kick of with a drinks reception, followed by a threecourse meal, a sports quiz and entertainment throughout the night with some fantastic prizes up for grabs. Michael Lyster will MC the evening and Paul Collins will act as quizmaster. Guests are encouraged to grab an outfit in the colour of the team they support and join us for an evening of fun and entertainment.
Tickets for the ball are €100 each. In keeping with the theme of sport which is everywhere you look this year, O’Shea and Long joined up with Temple Street Hospital and some local children to hit a few balls and have a bit of fun to announce the launch of Support Your Colours Ball in aid of Temple Street Children’s University Hospital. This is the second year that Mercury has come
Cian Smith and Ava Darcy, from Malahide, with Republic of Ireland players John O’Shea and Shane Long at Portmarnock Hotel and Golf Links launching the Temple Street Colours Ball
on board to sponsor Support Your Colours Ball and speaking about the event, Aidan Bird, Business Development, Mercury Engineering said: “Mercury Engineering is delighted to be sponsoring the Support your Colours Ball 2012. We
have attended the event in previous years and know it is a great night of sporting fun and more importantly a great way of raising much needed funds forTemple Street.” Marianne Rowan from Temple Street’s fundraising office said:
“This is the sixth year we have been running the ball and we are thrilled by the response we have received so far. “We hope to raise €40,000 from the ball to continue to provide the best possible service and care to the children who
come through our doors. If anyone is thinking of joining us on the evening you can be sure to have a fantastic night out.” For more information or to purchase tickets for the ball call 01 878 4344 or email info@templestreet.ie.
30
CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 August 2012
GazetteSport Sport Bluebell SOCCER: PEAMOUNT U-16S CLAIM NATIONAL TITLE AS SENIORS BOUNCE BACK start in top form BLUEBELL United got their bid to win back the LSL Sunday Senior title off to the perfect start as they got the better of Cherry Orchard 3-1 on home turf last Sunday on the first weekend of matches. With big rivals Crumlin drawing, it was an early boon for the Red Cow club as they bid to land the top intermediate title in the province after two years in the runnersup spot. Dublin Bus started their Senior 1 campaign with a 1-1 draw at home against the recently amalgamated Belgrove/ Home Farm, netting their equaliser in injury time after an earlier own goal put the northside outfit ahead.
Peas storm to national glory
FAI UMBRO U-16 FINAL Peamount United Listowel Celtic
3 1
I sport@gazettegroup.com
PEAMOUNT UNITED followed in the footsteps of their former player Katie Taylor in capturing the FAI Umbro Women’s U16 Challenge Cup Final 2012 in an absorbing contest at Mounthawk Park, Tralee, this afternoon. The Dublin side finished 3-1 winners after a late flurry of goals following a very tight opening half. They took the lead in the fourth minute when Eleanor Ryan Doyle
headed home from close range after good work by Chloe Murphy. Listowel had a lengthy spell of dominance in the first half but failed to trouble United keeper Amy Corcoran although a brilliant strike by Niamh Carmody seven minutes into the second half was a signal of their attacking threat. Peamount skipper Rachel Doyle was a massive influence on the game with her dead-ball deliveries and it was from her 49th-minute cross that Chloe Murphy had a header saved from point blank range.
Doyle then made it 2-0 with a stunning 22-yard free-kick that flew in off the inside of the Celtic post to put Peamount in control. Listowel got back in the game in the 70th minute when Aoife Shine’s right-wing cross went over the head of Corcoran and landed in the Peamount net. Celtic skipper Rebecca Horgan went desperately close to levelling matters in the 74th minute when she was sent through on goal only to see her slipped effort slide the wrong side of the Peamount upright. Peamount sealed the victory with three min-
Peamount U-16 girls celebrate their FAI Umbro Cup success
utes left when substitute Erin Best produced a brilliant shot from distance that the impressive Listowel keeper Tina Mangan could do little to keep out. Elsewhere, Sara Lawlor bagged an impressive hattrick to keep Peamount United’s UEFA Champi-
ons League aspirations alive as the Irish champions beat Israeli side ASA Tel-Avia 5-0 in Sarajevo. The Peas bounced back from their opening game loss to the host club in Group Five to bounce right back into contention with an emphatic victory thanks to Lawlor’s treble.
They followed up with a 4-0 win over Welsh side UWIC but were agonisingly knocked out on goal difference by virtue of results in other groups. Peamount became the first Irish club ever to reach the Champions League group stages last year.
23 August 2012 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 31
HURLING: TOWER’S THROUGH TO INTER SEMIS
CLUB NOTICEBOARD ROUND TOWERS CONGRATULATIONS to the intermediate
include all results for all teams; we
hurlers who defeated St Peregrine’s
encourage all mentors, juvenile and
last Wednesday evening in the champi-
adult, players and supporters to send in
onship quarter-final and Faughs in the
the result of your game using one of the
league on Saturday evening.
following methods: text – 0876290870,
Commiserations to the junior hurlers who were defeated by Commercials in the championship quarter-final on Thursday evening. Congratulations to our Under-11 hurlers for proudly representing the club in the Division 1 Shield finals of Camaint 2012 in Parnell Park last Saturday. Many thanks to all who supported the juvenile race night last Friday evening.
email - tracker@roundtower.ie or send a Tweet to @RTowerstracker This week’s lotto numbers were 6, 12, 17 and 25. The bonus ball was 28. There was no winner of this week’s jackpot of €8,500. Congratulations to Alison Boyce, Catherine Cullen and Bertie who were the three €100 winners Match 3 + Bonus Ball. Next week’s jackpot is €8,600.
It’s a busy week ahead for our adult
The clubrooms are available for rental
teams in league action. The men’s teams
for parties, anniversaries, etc. Please
play Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday,
contact Jimmy behind the bar or on
Saturday and Sunday while the ladies
01-4592960.
footballers and camogie teams play on
The lotto committee are looking for
Tuesday and Wednesday. More info on
your assistance to sell Tower’s lotto
all the games can be found in Between
tickets on a Friday evening or Saturday
the Posts. All support welcome.
morning for one hour once a month.
The flag weekend fundraiser is taking
If you are able to help, please contact
place over the weekend of September 9
Matt McCormack on 0876836737 or
(All-Ireland hurling weekend). If you are
email info@roundtower.ie.
Round Tower rode their luck to claim a place in the final four of the intermediate hurling championship
free Friday, Saturday or Sunday for an
The club shop is open in the club
Whelan grabs last gasp Tower’s win
hour, please contact Niall Connaughton
every Monday night from 7.30-8.30pm.
on 087 6290870.
You can call Betty Ward or Catherine
IHC QUARTER-FINAL
OUR deepest sympathy to the Far-
of football and hurling mini-games
relly family on the death of their
and all kids will have the opportu-
father Jack.
nity to pit their skills against OPEL
St Peregrine’s Round Tower, Clondalkin I PETER CARROLL
0-8 0-9
sport@gazettegroup.com
ROUND Tower’s intermediate hurlers cemented their place in the semi-final of the county championships after a nail-biting encounter with St Peregrine’s last week, which saw Emmet Carroll’s men take the victory with the final swipe of the sliotar at Blakestown. The match was played in bad conditions, ever worsening throughout the fixture, with Tower’s playing with a slight breeze in the first half of the quarter final tie. It was all Tower’s and points from Gary Quinlivan, Mark Keane, Brian McLaughlin and Fergal McDonagh gave the Clondalkin men the edge, despite hitting at least six wides from the opening 30 minutes of the game, with the score
at 0-7 to 0-5. The second-half saw a refocused Peregrine’s start very strongly. Two quick points from Cillian Byrnes put the Blanchardstown outfit back on terms, and both managers chose to push a player back with the rain coming down heavier with every second. With the sides level, the game became more ner v y and the play descended into the two sides losing possession from long-range pucks from one half to the other, with St Peregrine’s suddenly looking the more threatening of the two teams. The clock had only ten minutes left on it when Fiachra Byrnes pushed Peregrine’s ahead, and it looked like the Ciaran Conneely’s men would be taking their place in the semi-finals before Tower’s showed great heart and determination to rally for a result. Mark Keane popped
up with the point to put Tower’s back on terms, but Peregrine’s still posed a serious threat to the travelling side that they didn’t take for granted. In the dying embers of the game, Jack Whelan found space to put the ball over the bar which was quickly followed by the referee’s whistle, therefore putting the Clondalkin side into the semi-final of the tournament, with the scores finishing at 0-9 to 0-8. “We were lucky enough to win,” said Emmet Carroll. “We had the better of it in the first half but, it was definitely Peregrine’s
in the second half. “I’m happy with the win; we were missing two of our better players and the conditions certainly weren’t ideal. “The lads showed they are a resilient bunch. After having a bit of a blip as far as league form was concerned a few months ago, we seemed to have turned it around and we’re looking forward to the semis. “A couple of lads will be back for the semi-final and I think we have every chance of progressing to the final if we play to the best of our abilities,” said Carroll.
There is a now a dedicated Towers
Moran direct if you have any particular
Match tracker service for all teams in
enquiries on 0876752238 or 0868303207
Towers - https://twitter.com/RTow-
respectively.
ersTracker. The Twitter account is @ RTowersTracker - we would like to
Bingo takes place this Tuesday. Line €10 Full House €20. First Call 8.30pm.
ST PAT’S PALMERSTOWN Congratulations to our PJ Troy
ambassadors Jackie Tyrrell (Kil-
team who took the gold in their sec-
kenny), Joe Canning (Galway) and
tion on Saturday.
Colm (Gooch) Cooper cars on dis-
St Pats new website is now up and running and you can also now tweet us on twitter.
play. All are welcome to drop by at any stage on the day. Lotto number and results: first
The golf classic is to be held on
draw winning numbers were 7, 20,
Frida y, September 21 in Grange
21 and 6; there was no winner; sec-
Castle.
ond draw winning numbers were 10,
We are delighted to have been
14, 30 and 7; there was no winner.
chosen as hosts of an OPEL Ireland
Any three numbers winner: Mar-
sponsored U-9 tournament to take
tin Walsh, Andy Kennedy, Patricia
place in Glenaulin Park on Satur-
Mulvaney, Matt Walsh.
day, August 25 from 10am-2pm to
The nex t dr aw i s on Sunda y,
celebrate the launch of this year’s
August 25. The first draw jackpot is
Opel kits for clubs campaign.
€10,000, the second draw jackpot is
Seven clubs will be playing a mix
WE HAVE 135,000* READERS EACH WEEK *based on standard industry measurements
ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS CALL 60 10 240
€1,600.
32 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 August 2012