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YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER

INSIDE: Campaign against household fee kicks off P2

February brua y 2, 2012

BRIDE & GROOM: Our special guide to preparing for your big day P17-24

All smiles: President makes a special visit PHOENIX PARK’S most recent

Football: Brogan back for Kerry test as league begins Page 32

new resident, President Michael D Higgins, gave a local D15 school a Monday to remember when he paid a visit to Scoil Bhride Girls’ National School. President Higgins was welcomed in 12 languages, followed by a dance display from different countries in Europe, Asia and Africa.

Taking a part in the day’s festivites were Chinwe Nwoga, Alyssa Alcantara and Alexia Datario. Pictures: Ania Sherlock Full Gallery on Page 10

Sports Awards: Gala night for local heroes set for this week Pages 28-29

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ....................10 PETS..............................12 MOTORS ........................14 BUSINESS .................... 16 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 25 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

Council to provide off-leash dog run Fenced-off area where pets will be allowed run free

I LAURA WEBB

DOG owners will soon be able to let their beloved pets off the leash to run freely at a popular Dublin 15 park, following proposals by Fingal County Council to open a local dog run.

The local authority are

planning to open at some point this year, a designated fenced-off area within a public park where dog owners can bring their animals and allow them off the leash.

If it proves to be successful, FCC sat it will be rolled out to other local parks.

Welcoming the decision

by FCC, Fine Gael councillor Kieran Dennison said: “Dog runs have been successful in public parks in Northern Ireland and other countries. Hopefully, it will mean cleaner and safer parks for everyone.”

Full Story on Page 4

2 BLANCH GAZETTE 2 February 2012

GRANTS: MINISTER ANNOUNCES FUNDING

CAMPIAGN Sinn Fein protest outside Minister’s office

€5.3 million to improve local roads I LAURA WEBB

news@gazettegroup.com

ROADS in Fingal are set for a major overhaul following this week’s announcement that €5.3 million has been allocated for improvements and maintenance.

Dublin West TD and Minister for Transport, Sports and Tourism Leo Varadkar, announced the multimillion euro funding for regional and local roads in Fingal and Dublin 15.

The money is to be divided up in different areas, with €2.4 million to go on road improvements, €1 million is going to road maintenance, €0.95 million for discretionary road grants and a further €107,000 for low-cost safety improvements.

T he allocation of €800,000 was also included for the Harry Reynolds Road in north County Dublin. €60,000 will be provid-

ed for a new pedestrian crossing on the Snugborough Road, as part of overall maintenance grants for Fingal County Council.

The funding will be used to construct a new pedestrian crossing with traffic lights, just north of the roundabout on the Snugborough Road.

It’s being provided under the Low Cost Safety Improvement Works scheme.

“Pedestrians and local residents on the Snugborough Road currently have to take a large detour in order to cross at this point, so this project should make a real difference,” Minister Varadkar said.

“Other projects under the Low Cost Safety Improvement Works scheme include €40,000 for a pedestrian crossing on the Drogheda Road, and €7,500 for safety works at St Mologa’s School,” Minister Varadkar said.

Paul Donnelly hands out leaflets to a member of the public. Pictures: Andrew Foley

Protest against household fee L OCAL TD and Minister for Transport Leo Varadkar’s constituency office was the focus for protestors recently campaigning against the new household charge. Sinn Fein kicked off their campaign opposing the new measure in Dublin West outside the Minister’s local office in Ongar on Saturday, February 23. A number of supporters joined the party in their protest.

Speaking in advance of the protest, Sinn Fein’s Dublin West representative Paul Donnelly said: “We have always clearly stated our opposition to this regressive

tax and that we will support residents who are not in a position to pay the €100 charge for whatever personal reason. Sinn Fein does not support the Socialist Party’s call for people not to pay. It’s irresponsible and could bring already struggling families down a road that could lead to further financial hardship as charges for nonpayment will rack up.”

Over the next couple of weeks, Sinn Fein will be campaigning against the household charges throughout Dublin West.

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

Handing in his petition Drumming up support from the young

Supporters handing out petitions against the charge

More leaflets are distributed

2 February 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 3

BLAKESTOWN Student wins national competition

Drawing course

Local school celebrates art awards I LAURA WEBB

STUDENTS from Blakestown Community School have been awarded for their artistic talent and hard work, following a number of art competition wins and successful creative businesses.

It’s been a great start to the year for the talented students, following news last week that one of their sixth years, Brian Lambert (17), won a national competition.

“It was to design the front cover for a booklet on child human trafficking – Open Your Eyes to Child Human Trafficking.

“It was an All-Ireland

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competition and there would have been hundreds of entries and he won. The award ceremony for this takes place in March,” art teacher, Mary Quinn, told the Gazette.

“His image will be used on the new human trafficking booklet, which will be distributed all around Ireland to make people become aware of the signs of human trafficking. Brian now hopes to go on to Art College, so this is great for his portfolio,” she said.

Just weeks before Brian’s big win, the school celebrated getting artwork in seven months of a Fingal County Council

anti-graffiti calendar.

“It was put out to them in November and we got word in early January that seven of the months had been filled with Blakestown Students’ work.”

This is not the first time the school has been successful in securing places in the annual calendar. Last year, eight months were filled with artwork from students at the school, ranging from second year to sixth year.

“They just say the work completely fitted into the category of what they were trying to advertise, they said they got so many entries, but

DRAIOCHT

Winners of calender competition with principal Eileen O’Connor

so many of them were nearly encouraging graffiti rather than showing the anti side to it. They are all delighted with the win,” she said.

The school’s thirdyear students are also preparing to enter the junior cycle of the Fingal Young Enterprise Competition with their company, Capture It, which offers a service of taking personal photos and

transforming them into calendars, prints, fridge magnets and key rings.

They have now set up an email service to take new business and for the community to find out more about the company – blakestownentreprise@gmail.com For Mary, art is very important to have on the school curriculum.

“We have had so much strengths coming out of

the arts department over the years, it’s essential to them. It’s not just about coming in and painting, with the likes of the human trafficking I do a lesson plan on it, we talk about the subject; it’s all about getting the visual language out there as well as the written information. A lot of the time visual is a lot stronger than words will ever be,” she said.

DR AIOCHT’S Ar tist in Residence, is hosting a drawing course that looks into different styles used by a variety of artists.

Deirdre Byrne will explore mark making and tone in this course, amongst other elements of drawing, with a focus on landscape.

Students taking part work towards creating their own finished pieces.

This is an eight-week programme, beginning February 6 until April 2 (note no class on Monday, March 19) costs €110/€90 with concession.

To book, call Draiocht Theatre’s box office on 01-8852622.

Draiocht has a number of Access Places available on all its courses.

To nominate someone to participate who may not have the fee, please contact Emer McGowan on 01-8098027 or email emer@draiocht.ie in confidence.

4 BLANCH GAZETTE 2 February 2012

OPEN DAY: DUBLIN 15

Centre seek volunteers THE Blanchardstown/ Dublin 15 Citizens Information centre is looking for new volunteers and is set to host an open day next week for anyone interested in signing up.

The local information centre will host the open day on Friday, February 10.

Residents with some time to spare, those who want to help out in their community and those

with an open mind are being called to volunteer at the centre.

For further information contact the Blanchardstown/Dublin 15 Citizens Information Centre on 0761 075060 , email blanchardstown@ citinfo.ie or drop into Blanchardstown/D15 CIC Westend Office Park, Snugborough Road Ext, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15.

Laurel Lodge Carpenterstown

With Jim Lacey Phone: 087-2401308 Email: jimlacey@eircom.net

Copper-faced clock stolen from Old Oil Mill OVER the Christmas period thieves stole the copper-faced clock from the façade of Ashtown Oil Mills.

It was not an easy task, the clock was in a very prominent position and a great height above ground.

The bluish green clock face was a distinctive landmark in the Ashtown area.

The Old Oil Mills date back to 1820 and it is a protected building, whatever that means when a large clock can be removed so easily.

The clock is reputed to have come originally

Ashtown Oil Mills

from Newgate Prison, Green Street. The prison was demolished in

1893. It ceased to be a prison in 1839 and was used for various purpos-

es, including a fruit and vegetable market.

The drawing of the prison and old photographs don’t show a clock face so it may have come from the prison chapel.

My grandfather was a millright in the Ashtown Oil Mills and some of my grand-uncles also worked there. In fact my father was born in a house in the Mill Yard in 1903.

The mills source of water power was taken from a millrace off the Royal Canal. It used to process by-products of flax, which was primarily used to manufacture

linen. These by-products were linseed oil, which had many applications, and cow cakes for feeding livestock. They later manufactured polish and hair oil.

I would urge anyone with information on any suspicious activity or, better still, the whereabouts of the historic clock to contact the Gardai at either Blanchardstown or Cabra Stations.

In the meantime, please be vigilant – we have many important historical buildings and artefacts in the area and we should protect them for future generations.

St Francis Hospice gala variety show EILEEN Ring, who organised the Luttrellstown Castle night of fine dining and grand opera, has been in touch with me to tell me of another great fundraiser for St Francis Hospice.

However, firstly let me tell you that they raised €8,800 from the Luttrellstown event.

The upcoming fundraiser at

the stunning Helix Theatre is now an annual event.

Eileen tells me that there is a fantastic line up for this Gala Variety Per formance with something for every one.

The galaxy of stars of stage and screen scheduled to appear on the night include Rebecca Storm, Paddy Cole,

Mario Rosenstock, The Drawing Room Opera Company, violinist Jane Hackett, The Moore School of Performing Arts and Brendan Gleeson with his two sons, Brian and Domnhall.

The evening’s entertainment commences with a champagne reception at 7pm, followed by

the show at 8pm.

Tickets are available at the Helix for €50 each. There is also a super raffle with prizes of weekends away, pampering hampers and fine dining nights. It’s great night’s entertainment for a great cause.

Book early to avoid disappointment.

DUBLIN 15: DESIGNATED AREA FOR PETS TO RUN FREELY

Dog run gets green light for Millennium Park I LAURA WEBB

MAN’S best friend is wagging their collective tails in delight this week, with news that they are to get a designated area to run freely in a Dublin 15 park, following plans by the local council to open a dog run.

Fingal County Council outlined its proposal during an area committee meeting in Blanchardstown last week.

Last year, the council made contact with Dog Training Ireland, seeking advice on such a pro-

posal.

According to a council report, since that consultation and “taking on board the design of such areas in other countries”, the council is now proposing to instal a dog run into part of the popular Millennium Park.

Describing a dog run, a council spokesperson said it’s defined as a “designated fenced-off area within a public park where dog owners can bring their animals and allow them off the leash. The dogs are free to move about within this controlled area, and

water and waste facilities are also provided, with the onus being on the dog owner to clean up after their animal.”

It is planned to put this area in place in 2012 and, if it proves successful, it will then be rolled out to other Parks.

The report came following a motion by Fine Gael councillor Kieran Dennison asking the council to allocate areas as “poop patches” in local D15 parks.

The local councillor says he receives constant complaints about the

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‘But the amount of dog dirt in our parks and playing fields is a real public health issue’

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amount of dog dirt on footpaths and in parks.

“Most dog owners are very responsible and clean up after their pets.

“But the amount of dog dirt in our parks and playing fields is a real public health issue.

“Every year a number of children are infected by toxocariasis, which is spread by dog faeces and

can lead to blindness, or even death, if not treated within 72 hours.

“Dog runs have been successful in public parks in Northern Ireland and other countries, so I welcome the decision by Fingal to roll them out here.

Hopefully, it will mean cleaner and safer parks for everyone,” Cllr Dennison said.

2 February 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 5

6 BLANCH GAZETTE 2 February 2012

COMMENT Alan Shatter on his latest proposal to the Dail

Explaining the new Personal Insolvency Bill in plain English ) ALAN SHATTER TD Minister for Justice, Equality and Defence

IN addressing issues of insolvency, a balance has to be struck between people in debt through no fault of their own, and those who have been reckless.

Many businesses, although carefully run, find themselves in enormous difficulties due to nonpayment by others for goods and

services.

A variety of circumstances can result in individuals becoming mired in unsustainable debt with no prospect of ever discharging it. Every country needs to have in place reasonable legal mechanisms to address insolvency while ensuring that no one benefits from fraud or illegal activity.

Last week, the Government agreed to my proposals for the Personal Insolvency Bill. The Bill deliv-

ers on a commitment contained in the Programme for Government and in our EU/IMF Agreement.

One of a number of measures that will contribute to our overall economic recovery, its objective is to address the situation of those whose debts are unsustainable and who have no realistic prospect of resolving their difficulties.

The intention behind the proposed new law is to design a system that is fair to both creditors and debtors alike.

The proposed Bill will, for the first time in Irish law, provide a legal mechanism for those in difficulty with their debts to enter into agreements with their creditors to resolve their debts through a negotiated settlement without the necessity of a costly court procedure.

It is not only about money owed to banks.

It also includes smaller creditors, such as businesses and suppliers. The new arrangements are designed to allow for sufficient flexibility to allow debtors and creditors to reach a fair and sensible agreement that takes account of the true financial circumstances of the debtor.

Importantly, it will be possible to include mortgage debt in the agreement, subject to certain criteria.

Three new non-judicial debt settlement systems are being introduced, subject to relevant conditions in each case. These are: • A Debt Relief Certificate to allow for the full writeoff of qualifying unsecured debt concerning debtors with “no assets and no income” up to

The Minister for Justice, Alan Shatter, TD

€20,000, after a one-year moratorium period; • A Debt Settlement Arrangement for the agreed settlement of unsecured debt of €20,001 and over; and • A Personal Insolvency Arrangement for the agreed settlement of both secured and unsecured debt of €20,001 and over.

The Personal Insolvency Bill (PIA) provides for a unique and specific mechanism to assist resolving difficulties confronting thousands of home owners in negative equity with mortgage arrears who are genuinely incapable of discharging their monthly mortgage repayments.

Use of this mechanism has the potential for agreed debt settlement arrangements being put in place that will enable people to continue residing in their homes and avoid judicial bankruptcy.

The Bill’s provisions will be of assistance not only to those in mortgage arrears, but also to those who are overwhelmed by credit card bills, car loans and overdrafts. It will allow those in difficulty

to get back to living a more normal life by alleviating some of the stress and uncertainty that they may currently be experiencing due to financial pressures.

T he new arrangements are not, however, designed to be an easy option for those who won’t pay or simply behaved recklessly in relation to their finances.

Legislation The draft legislation, which is available on my Department’s website – www.justice.ie – has a number of safeguards to protect against abuse of the system.

The final element of the legislation is the reformed bankruptcy arrangements which will include, critically, the introduction of automatic discharge from bankruptcy, subject to certain conditions, after three years in place of the current 12 years.

This continues the reform of the Bankruptcy Act 1988, which I began last year with changes I introduced in the Civil Law (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2011.

The Bill also pro-

poses the establishment of an Insolvency Service to operate the new non-judicial insolvency arrangements. The new legislation, when operational, will complement a range of other policy initiatives across a number of Government Departments aimed at assisting those in financial difficulty. For those in mortgage difficulty, in particular, there are a range of initiatives emanating from the recommendations of the Keane Report last year that are either already in place or being actively worked on

by Government.

This suite of measures, including the new personal insolvency legislation, will offer a menu of options that can be availed of depending on the severity of the mortgage problem.

The outline of the legislation is now to be considered by the Oireachtas Justice Committee, and the Bill in legislative form will be published by the end of April. It will then be considered by the Dail and Seanad and become law later this year.

2 February 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 7

8 BLANCH GAZETTE 2 February 2012

COURTS: ARRESTED ON SUSPICION OF HAVING GUN

Man on trial for robbery A JURY in the trial of a Meath resident accused of robbing over €300,000 worth of tobacco products has heard he was arrested on suspicion of being in possession of a firearm.

Francis (Frank) Cunningham (63), of Bog Road, Longwood, has pleaded not guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to the robbery of tobacco products worth €314,916 and the false imprisonment of Joseph O’Toole and Edward Postol in Blanchardstown on March 14, 2007.

He has also pleaded not guilty to possession of a firearm or imitation firearm and unlawful use of a mechanically propelled vehicle on the same date in the same place.

Detective Garda Joe Enright told Mr Paul Carroll BL, prosecuting that he made his way to the Enfield area after he was

made aware of matters through garda communications.

When he arrived at Enfield he saw a garda colleague dealing with Cunningham and noticed the back door of a white Transit van was open.

He said he saw cartons of cigarettes in the back of the van and approached Cunningham to arrest him on suspicion of being in possession of a firearm at North West Business Park. Cunningham was brought to Blanchardstown Garda Station where his clothing was seized along with €750 and a small brown ear piece which was found in his pocket.

Det Gda Enright agreed with defence counsel, Mr Blaise O’Carroll BL, that he did not search the car at the scene in Enfield so he did not see a firearm.

The trial continues.

SCHOOLS Tyrrelstown/Mulhuddart plan

Educate Together pushes for I LAURA WEBB

PARENTS supporting the Educate Together campaign to receive patronage for a new local school set to open in 2014 were out in force last week to hear more about what the organisation is offering for second-level education.

On January 23, local residents gathered at Carlton Hotel in Tyrrelstown to discuss progress being made on securing a new Tyrrelstown/Mulhuddart ET second-level school.

Speakers at the event included Gerry McKevitt, regional development officer in the area; second-level education officer, Ann Ryan, and chief executive, Paul Rowe.

John Holohan, Educate Together head of communications, said: “It was a full house; we were very pleased with the turnout.

“There was a good mix

Among those attending the meeting on what Educate Together (ET) could bring to a new, local ET secondary school were Gerry McKevitt, regional development officer, ET; Fergal Collins, principal, Blanchardstown West ETNS;; Ann Ryan, second level education officer, ET; Paul Rowe, CEO, ET and Morris Hurley, principal, Tyrrelstown ETNS. Inset: Parents at the meeting

of local parents from Tyrrelstown and the Mulhuddart area, for which the school would be serving,” he said.

“In early 2000, some of our schools, established for a number of years, began to reach the point where children were now

graduating out of the primary cycle that ET offers, and wanted to go to an ET secondary school if that was possible.

“In 2005, the process of seeking recognition as a patron at second-level from the Department [of education] began.

“From 2007, we made our first application, in relation to Lucan ET, to the Department. In 2009, we released our blueprint for the secondlevel model; we got formal recognition from the Department in 2011 as a second-level patron,” said

Holohan.

“On the basis of that, we applied with the Department, which is running a number of applications processes for a number of new-build second-level schools across the country, and we have applied for five of them – two in

2 February 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 9

gathers support

COUNCIL

patronage

Names being sought

the Dublin 15 area, Blanchardstown West and Tyrrelstown/Mulhuddart, the others in Lusk, Greystones and Drogheda.

“Essentially, this is a tendering process. In the Tyrrelstown/Mulhuddart area, three patrons – ourselves, ET; the VEC, in conjunction with the Protestant Denominational Education Authority, and La Cheile, Catholic Education Group – all three of those have proposed a school model, but ET would be the only application we would feel is completely open, and places no restrictions on anyone in the area to apply,” he said.

Asked if the organisation is quietly confident about securing the patronage for the school, scheduled to open in 2014, Holohan said they would be.

“We offer something new and different. We will measure performance across a whole range of

measures, not purely the academic and the ability to learn something off and reproduce it in the test.

“We strongly believe that we will offer the people of D15 a very good, rounded education that will develop not only their academic performance, but their life skills.

“We think we have a very strong proposition, and we are very hopeful that we will achieve patronage in Mulhuddart and provide an excellent school for that community for now and long into the future,” said Holohan.

No official date confirming the successful patron for the Tyrrelstown second-level school has been set, but John hopes it will be before the summer this year.

Further information on pre-enrolments can be found on www.educatetogether.ie.

FINGAL County Council has begun the process of naming roundabouts across the Dublin 15 area.

The local council is currently drawing up a list of the roundabouts on the main distributor road network in Dublin 15. The list will then be submitted to the Castleknock Mulhuddart Naming Committee to suggest names for each of the roundabouts.

In a report to councillors last week, the council said recommendations of the naming committee will then be submitted to the local area committee meeting for consideration and recommendation to the county council for approval.

The report came following a motion by Labour councillor Mary McCamley asking the council to initiate a process of naming as a means of identifying all roundabouts in D15.

10 BLANCH GAZETTE 2 February 2012

EVENT Local school welcomes very important guest

The different cultures of the school performed

President Michael D. Higgins at Scoil Bhride. Pictures: Ania Sherlock

Students’ Monday to remember UPILS at Scoil Bhride Girls’ National School in Blanchardstown had a Monday to rememeber recently when President Michael D Higgins paid a special visit after he accepted their invitation to come to the school.

Over 600 pupils welcomed the President with music and an array of Irish songs in

P

the front hall. He was then led through the school corridors to see some of the students’ work on display.

With 40 different nationalities represented at the school, President Higgins was also welcomed in 12 languages, followed by a dance display from different countries in Europe, Asia and Africa.

Gifts were presented to the President, including this poem

Pupils Manahil, Laura and Ziya

Chinwe Nwoga, Alyssa Alcantara and Alexia Datario

Music greeted him at the door

2 February 2012 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 2 Februay 2012

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: CARRIED OUT PROPERLY, A CRATE BECOMES A SECURE AND SAFE HAVEN

The many benefits of crate training AS a dog owner who adores her dogs (the kids complain I favour my dogs over them… er, like that’s a bad thing?) I am also very house proud, and don’t do untidiness, something else that annoys the kids, so it was an obvious choice for me to crate-train my dogs when I became a pet parent.

Why? Because I believe there are many benefits to crate training, and if carried out properly and responsibly, the crate becomes a secure and safe haven for your pets.

You see dogs naturally live in dens and, by providing a crate large enough for your pet to sit, stand, lie down, spread out and turn around in will ensure he’ll keep his

personal living area clean and pee- and poo-free. I like to think of the crate as a five-star room with a view.

Also, some breeds, for example Patterdale Terriers, (I have two), can be a tad boisterous and, instead of acting out, they now know to go to their “bed”, and remain calm.

So, whether you have a puppy or an older dog, here’s a few essential housekeeping tips that I hope you’ll find useful when it comes to cratetraining Fido.

The process: Choosing your crate is important and there are several types available. You’ve got the plastic one, which is good for use in the car and for ferry and flight travel, the fabric one which is

Choosing the right crate for your pet is important

foldable (but chewable), or the ones I use which are more sturdy (albeit expensive), the collapsible metal-framed ones.

All are available at good pet stores.

If you’ve got a puppy, then make certain the crate is large enough for the adult version of your

dog but not so large he will feel uncomfortable.

Remember, he needs to be able to move around, stand up, lie down, and at the same time, feel cozy and safe. If the crate is not utilised properly, your dog can feel trapped and isolated.

Are you someone who

travels a lot or has a busy schedule? That’s fine – impose this schedule on your dog, teach him to be in his crate during those times; after all, he will know what to expect and fall in line with your routine.

The placing of your crate is very important.

Dogs love company so keep the crate in a family area. Mine are in the kitchen… well, we are at our best chez Kerins when we’re eating.

Plan your crating based on your dog’s needs, remembering all the time that he requires and responds to routine, which makes for a positive experience for everyone.

Patience is the key.

In order to quicken the

process I rewarded my dogs and eventually they voluntarily went to their own private areas, happy in the knowledge that it was their “down time”.

Take your dog outside the second you release him from the crate in order to allow him pee or poo. When he does this, reward him. This brings me to stage of dog – i.e. puppy or adult. Young puppies do not have control over their bladder, therefore you must take them outdoors every hour to do their business.

As they get a little older, for example, 20 weeks, they start to gain a little control and gradually get better with age and understanding.

However, common sense is the key and you

need to exercise it and get to know how much time your dog can last before losing control of his bladder. If you leave them in the crate for too long you’ll force them to soil it and this will only make for a very unhappy dog.

Never use the crate as a form of punishment!

It’s your dog’s little haven, it’s where he feels safe; it’s where he goes when he needs to feel calm, so respect this. Once you use the crate as a form of punishment, it loses its value and you’ve lost the respect of your pet and this may result in destructive behaviours.

For more

information log onto www.dspca.ie or email me miriam.kerins@dspca.ie

2 February 2012 GAZETTE 13

EVENT Top Chef Ken Hom’s demonstration at Tesco Cabra

Winner Muireann Quinn competing in the “wok off”

Tasty treat for store

The Woods family and Ken. Picture: Ania Sherlock

STEEMED chef Ken Hom, hosted a demonstration day in the newly-opened Tesco store in Cabra recently.

Hom cooked up his authentic Chinese food suitable for the health-conscious, to celebrate the Chinese New Year and the arrival of the simplistic, yet flavourful, range of real Chinese food.

Competition winner Muireann Quinn, competed in a “wok off” against Hom, cooking a Chinese favourite, sweet and sour chicken.

“I try to cook healthy, I mostly cook vegetarian food. I’ve been a vegetarian for 26 years, but today I’m looking forward to cooking sweet and sour chicken.”

The range is designed exclusively for Tesco, concentrating on delivering pure, traditional and affordable Chinese cuisine. Dishes include spare ribs, crispy chilli beef and aromatic duck.

E

Peter Wong and Bob Boland from St Joseph’s School for the Deaf

Competition winner, Muireann Quinn, and her daughter, Roisin, with Ken

Tesco Cabra store manager, Martyn Saunders, with Eugen Smocinchi, from St Joseph’s school for the Deaf, and Ken

Ken

14 GAZETTE 2 February 2012

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs

800,000 hybrids for Honda HONDA Motor Co, Ltd, has announced that Honda’s cumulative worldwide hybrid vehicle sales surpassed 800,000 units, as of the end of December 2011. This milestone was reached 12 years and two months after the start of sales of the first generation Honda Insight in Japan in November 1999, which delivered fuel economy of 35km/litre, then the world’s highest fuel economy among all petrol-powered vehicles.

Honda introduced the first generation Insight, Civic Hybrid and Accord Hybrid equipped with Honda’s original lightweight and compact IMA (Integrated MotorAssist) hybrid system. More recently, following the introduction of the second generation Insight in 2009, Honda introduced a total of six new hybrid models in the last three years to expand the hybrid vehicle line-up and sales. Honda’s annual world-wide hybrid sales for 2011was approximately 200,000 units (up 30% compared to 2010), and Honda’s total hybrid sales during the last three years exceeded 500,000 units.

Boyzone’s Shane Lynch urges drivers to beat budget and VAT increases by driving smart

Unique additive gives Topaz an economic edge BOYZONE’S Shane Lynch has launched a new efficient driving campaign by leading fuels and convenience retailer, Topaz.

Shane, a keen driving enthusiast, says motorists could knock hundreds of euro off their motoring costs by adapting their driving styles and making a number of small, but key, changes.

To mark the new campaign, the Boyzone star visited the Topaz site at Glasnevin in Dublin – not far from where he grew up in Sherriff Street – and also visited the state-of-the-art Topaz site at Cashel on the DublinCork motorway.

“Accelerating smooth-

ly, removing unnecessary weight, avoiding tail-gating and driving at a moderate speed are just some of the ways motorists can save money. Motoring costs are rising all over the world and Ireland is no different, so it is up to drivers to drive smart and save money,” Shane said.

Topaz director, Paul Candon, said it was clear motorists wanted value for money, especially in light of the recent Budget and VAT increases on fuels.

“Not all fuels are the same. The additive in Topaz fuels makes them more fuel efficient – up to 3% more efficient when compared with fuels with

no additive. So, if drivers use Topaz AA qualitychecked fuels, and follow the driving efficiency tips outlined on our website, they can cut costs by up to 20%,” Candon said.

Candon said the company also intended to highlight the rise in fuel laundering in Ireland and the dangers this illegal trade posed for motorists. A recent report estimated that 12% of the diesel market was now being supplied from illegal sources.

“Laundered fuels pose a high risk to motorists and their engines. While low prices may seem very appealing in the current environment, consumers should always purchase

their fuels from trusted retailers, as the costs of repairing an engine damaged by laundered fuels can run into thousands of euro,” he said.

Candon also urged the authorities to clamp down on this illegal trade.

“Every tanker of illegal fuel costs the government €20k in lost taxes. If the government was to eliminate fuel laundering it would raise up to €200m in taxes from licensed and law-abiding retailers.

It’s worth comparing that figure to the new property tax, which is generating a lot of headlines and which it’s estimated will raise €160m,” Candon said.

12% admit to near miss or collision with cyclist ONE in eight drivers on Irish roads have either had a near miss or collision with a cyclist within the last two years, a new study by AA Motor Insurance has revealed. The study, which looks at incidents involving vulnerable road users, also indicates that 11% of motorists have been involved in similar incidents involving a pedestrian or an animal.

The AA Motor Insurance study, which polled a sample of more than 12,500 drivers in Ireland,

equally reveals that 5% have either hit, or almost hit, a motorcyclist while 0.7% said they’d done the same with someone on horseback.

Without exception, across all categories of vulnerable road users included in the AA Motor Insurance study (cyclists, motorcyclists, pedestrians, horse riders and animals), a higher percentage of men than women stated they had a near miss or collision within the last two years. Fourteen percent of the

male drivers polled, for example, compared to 11% of females, said they’d collided or had a near miss with a cyclist.

The AA Motor Insurance study also looks at incident rates by county and by light and weather conditions. Most notably in relation to weather hazards the highest number of incidents, 17%, occurred when raining, while 4% occurred during fog or mist, according to poll results.

2 February 2012 GAZETTE 15

16 GAZETTE 2 February 2012

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Aisling Sullivan, creative director, The Mill Theatre, Dundrum

Mill-ing over new ideas AISLING Sullivan hails from Greystones, Co Wicklow.

Over the past 10 years, she has worked with many prominent arts organisations and festivals in Ireland, including the Anna Livia International Opera Festival, The Gate Theatre, Mermaid Arts Centre and Music in Great Irish Houses.

For seven years Aisling held the position of artistic administrator and company manager with Opera Ireland.

During this time, she worked on over 28 grand-scale opera productions in The Gaiety Theatre, RDS Concert Hall, NCH, UCH Limerick and the Staatstheater, Wiesbadden, Germany.

Other projects included the first ever CD recording of Balfe’s opera, Falstaff, in association with RTE and Lyric FM, Opening Night Live (Live transmission of opera from the theatre to Meeting House Square in Temple Bar, in association with Platform Ireland), the managing

of the European Opera Directing Prize and the La Boheme Mountjoy Prison Project. She also devised and produced a children opera event, What’s Opera Doc? Aisling also managed the annual Opera Masterclass series, featuring renowned artists such as Rosalind Plowright and Dame Gwyneth Jones.

In 2010, she founded Arts Path and has presented numerous performance masterclasses with leading tutors from prestigious companies, including The Royal Shakespeare Company.

As an independent producer, she has produced Melodies of the Musicals, Music of the Night, Vino & Verdi and Opera d’Arte.

Aisling joined the team at The Mill Theatre, Dundrum in January, 2012, as creative director. In this role, she will develop an artistic vision for the theatre through the increased programming of professional productions of the highest quality.

Aisling Sullivan, creative director, The Mill Theatre, Dundrum

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

A: Ballerina (the mu-

anything that you once thought you could not pull off?

A: I’ll use one of my

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

A: The West End

sic box kind, not the Black Swan kind!)

favourite quotes to answer this one: “To succeed, we must first believe that we can.”

production of Equus, which comes to The Mill Theatre in March.

Q: What was your first job?

A: Working in Glenroe Open Farm when I was a teenager.

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: About £5, I think.

Q: Have you ever done a job you loathed?

A: Data entry.

Q: When did you start your present job?

A: Last month (January). A great start to 2012.

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: Scouting for new, exciting productions to bring to The Mill Theatre.

Q: Have you achieved

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

A: None.

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

A: A half-eaten chocolate bar (the New Year detox is not going well!)

Q: What sport do you follow?

A: Gaelic Football (Up The Kingdom!)

Q: What sport can you play?

A: I’m not a sporty person, but I take dance class twice a week which keeps me fit.

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

A: Re-runs of Murder She Wrote.

Q: What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/ iPad? A: I don’t own an iPod, iPad or anything technological beginning with ‘i’!

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: Mainly theatre companies, actors, singers and comedians.

Q: What was your last Tweet/status update?

A: “Very excited about our new box office system which allows you to choose your own seat when booking online!”

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: Dundrum Town Centre. All my favourite shops under one roof, heaven!

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: 35 pairs, plus a single boot that I can’t find the match for (It’s got to be here somewhere, right?)

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: I’m doing it!

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

A: No plans yet, but I still have about 30 years to decide!

2 February 2011 GAZETTE 17

THE PERFECT VENUE P18

MARRIAGE VALUES P22

WIN YOUR WEDDING P20

&

Bride groom Look your best on your big day

M

A T C H delicacy, refinem e n t , gracefulness and elegancy with powder y blue, pale lemon, or delicate pink in your bouquet and you are “bang on trend” as a bride in 2012.

If having your makeup applied by a professional make-up artist, book one early to guarantee an appointment and avoid disappointment.

If you’re going to use fake tan ensure that you use it for your trial makeover.

A good tip is to wear a top the same colour as your dress and bring a camera with a flash to the trial.

This will give you a good idea of what your finished look will be like.

A month before: Book yourself into a reputable beauty salon for a microdermabrasion.

A fortnight before: If you’re getting your eyebrows waxed do it now. Your foundation will not hold properly otherwise.

The week before: Have an exfoliating treatment to balance your skin and ensure a radiant complexion.

Make-up If applying the

make-up yourself as Kate Middleton did, following the simple steps below will guarantee a beautiful, polished version of yourself.

Cleanse and tone your face and apply a small amount of primer avoiding the eyes.

Use a brush to apply a long-lasting matt foundation and conceal any

imperfections.

Around the eye area, apply concealer on the lid and inner eye and seal with powder.

Using a large brush apply translucent over your face.

Under the cheekbone brush matt bronze to contour.

Apply natural shadow all over the eye area.

Contour in crease with darker natural shade.

Curl eyelashes and apply false eyelashes.

Apply waterproof pencil to line your upper eye and waterproof mascara.

Line your lips with natural pencil.

Apply soft shade of lipstick with a pop of gloss.

Add a touch of shimmer to your shoulder and collarbone.

Smile and enjoy the day!

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Dublin’s complete guide to yo u r w e d d i n g

Wedding showcase at the Lucan Spa Hotel GUESTS are cordially invited to a wedding showcase taking place at The Lucan Spa Hotel on February 19 from 1.00pm to 5.00pm.

The Lucan Spa Hotel has become one of the most exclusive wedding venues in Ireland since their recent renovation.

The magnificent Boyne Suite is a spectacular venue for the perfect

wedding day. This is an opportunity for brides and grooms to be to experience The Lucan Spa Hotel as it would be for their wedding day. Their team of dedicated wedding co-ordinators show guests the full experience of the wedding facilities at the hotel. Admission is free of charge and couples are welcome to bring a guest.

The hotel has also recently been shortlisted for Wedding Online’s Top Wedding Venues in Leinster and has been named in the Top 50 Wedding Venues in Ireland. To see why, visit their wedding showcase and prepare to be amazed at the fantastic facilities at the hotel. For more details, visit www.lucanspahotel.ie or call 01 620 8468.

18 GAZETTE 2 February 2012

BRIDE& GROOM Dublin’s complete

g u i d e to yo u r w e d d i n g

l C H OOSI N G T HE R ECE PT I O N S ET T ING l

Superb selections to find a perfect venue

Voted Best Wedding Venue in Dublin, Thomas Prior Hall is one of a number of great venues for the big day, while the Red Cow Moran Hotel (inset) is another top-notch venue with a wedding package to appeal

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

ONE of the biggest decisions for every couple planning their big day is where to host the wedding party – and Dublin offers some of the best hotels in the country for wedding celebrations.

Voted Best Wedding Venue in Dublin, and also listed as one of the top-ten wedding venues in Leinster, Thomas Prior Hall is the perfect option for those seeking a unique wedding venue.

Originally built as a school, many of the original features still stand.

This wedding venue can be viewed at their showcase on Thursday, February 16 from 5-9pm, and Sunday, February 19 from 2-6pm.

It can also host a civil ceremony for up to 180 guests, and having a ceremony or blessing outdoors is also possible.

The lawn is available with manicured lawns, tall trees and water feature. For further details, call 01 668 1111, email othomaspriorhall@morangroup.ie, or see www. thomaspriorhall.com.

Meanwhile, Bewley’s Hotel Leopardstown has unveiled The Power Suite, which is an intimate set-

ting that can host small weddings for up to 100 guests.

This is one of the newest wedding venues in South County Dublin, and offers a contemporary and cosmopolitan backdrop for the big day.

Their introductor y all-inclusive package of €45pp includes such features as a red carpet welcome, a four-course dinner, glass of house wine for guests, evening finger food and a resident DJ. There are also special accommodation rates for guests, and complimentary bridal suite. For further information, call 01 293 5000, email leopardstown@bewleyshotels. com, or see www.bewleyshotels.com.

Meanwhile, the contemporary, elegant, bright and spacious Baskin Suite at Bewley’s Hotel Dublin Airport can host fabulous weddings to suit both large and small parties, while civil ceremony facilities are also available.

The hotel has launched a great deal, catering for 100 guests for €3,000.

There are many varieties of packages available to suit all budgets, and their

dedicated wedding team can tailor-make a wedding package to suit your requirements.

For further information, call 01 871 1200, or email weddings.dublinairport@ bewleyshotels.com.

On Sunday, February 5, the Red Cow Moran Hotel will be hosting their own wedding showcase from 2-6pm.

This prime Dublin wedding venue will be dressed as it would appear on your wedding day, to give guests a taster of the great day that lies ahead for the happy couple.

The wedding team will be at hand to answer questions regarding wedding planning and wedding venue requirements.

For those who attend and book their wedding at the showcase, guests will get €1,000 off their wedding bill, and they will be entered in a draw to win their wedding.

There will be various special offers available on the day, along with complimentary canapes and wine.

For further information, call 01 459 3650, email cb.redcow@moranhotels.com or see www. moranhotels.com.

2 February 2012 GAZETTE 19

20 GAZETTE 2 February 2012

BRIDE& GROOM Dublin’s complete

GOT A STORY? TELL US ABOUT YOUR CELEBRATION OR FUNCTION Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email news@gazettegroup.com

g u i d e to yo u r w e d d i n g

l M ULLING AR GIVE AWAY l

You could win your wedding THE Bloomfield House Hotel in Mullingar has launched a free wedding giveaway, called Red or Black. The event is based on the TV game show of the same name, and will take place in Bloomfield on Sunday, February 12.

All entries will be given the opportunity to play for the wedding of their dreams, valued in excess of €15,000, and everyone who plays the game has an equal chance of winning.

The wedding giveaway will include a band, DJ, florist, photographer, wedding car, wedding cake, hair and make-up, Irish dancers and much more.

For full details on how to enter, contact the hotel at 044 934 0894.

Bloomfield House Hotel is a truly romantic venue, with luxurious surroundings and excellent facilities. The hotel enjoys an idyllic setting on the shores of Lough Ennell, and is surrounded

Bloomfield House Hotel’s setting in Mullingar affords several striking spots for photos, building on the hotel’s already considerable charms

by magnificent parkland – ideal for wedding photos.

With more than 32 years’ experience in hosting wedding receptions, this charming hotel is renowned for excellent service, terrific atmosphere and a strong emphasis on customer care.

The beautifullyappointed suites are

elegantly and tastefully decorated, and provide a backdrop of luxury and warmth.

The bridal suite, which is complimentary to all wedding couples, offers a rich, velvet-clad four-poster bed, spacious openplan living area, separate shower and bath, robes, slippers, luxury toiletries, and unsurpassed views over Lough Ennell.

Bloomfield House Hotel also offers a lakeside civil ceremony venue for those who wish to exchange vows and say “I do” on the shores

of Lough Ennell.

Experienced wedding co-ordinators, and d the management team, will be delighted to answer any of your queries and to offer advice.

They will work closely with you to ensure a wonderful reception for you and your guests, and that every aspect of your wedding is carried off with style and perfection.

The professional and experienced team are dedicated to making your wedding day unique and

memorable. bl Bloomfield House Hotel invites you to view the wonderful facilities and meet the wedding team, who will be delighted to show you around this superb wedding venue.

For further information on Bloomfield weddings, contact Maria Condon on 044 934 0894, email weddings@bloomfieldhouse.com, or visit www. bloomfieldhousehotel.ie.

2 February 2012 GAZETTE 21

22 GAZETTE 2 February 2012

BRIDE& GROOM Dublin’s complete

Costello Flowers’ heritage

COSTELLO Flowers has been in the heart of Dun Laoghaire for the past 20 years, and services all of the south side, from Dalkey and Bray to Stillorgan and Foxrock.

Costello Flowers has the proud boast of having the best selection of flowers in the south side, stocking Irish-grown flowers and plants that only become available once they’re certain the quality is the best available.

Ann Joyce has been at the helm since 1992, while Olivier Besombes is the designer, and loves looking after brides, while Linda Mac is available to view your site, if necessary, while the florists say that every budget can be accommodated.

g u i d e to yo u r w e d d i n g

l A DV I CE FO R M E N AND WO M E N T YING T H E K NOT TO E ACH OTHER l

Catholic marriage values MARRIAGE is as popular in Ireland as it has ever been. Despite the recession, and, for the most part, an unknown future, thousands of couples choose to get married each year.

In our work with couples preparing for marriage, we at ACCORD meet thousands of them, and their expectations of what marriage is about are very interesting.

Many have the same ideas and expectations that previous generations had. They want security, fulfilment, love, respect, an opportunity to grow, a safe place for themselves and their family.

Many of these expectations could be classified as “traditional” which, for some, might suggest that they are old or outdated.

Yet, given the opportunity to describe what they believe marriage is all about, these are the types of responses offered.

ACCORD, in its work with couples, emphasises that marriage is a journey, not a destination. This journey began when the couples first met, and it is a journey that combines their individual journeys so far in life.

Despite all their differences, many couples enter into marriage with the intention of staying married to each other for life, and do so. This commitment that couples make to each other is what getting married is all about.

They commit themselves to everything that their partner is to become in the future, and this

commitment is mutual.

They announce publicly their intention to stay together for better and for worse, in the knowledge that life will deliver good and bad times to them in the course of their life.

The couples who present themselves to AC C OR D f o r m a rriage preparation do so because of their intention to get married by the Catholic Church.

By doing so, they express a wish to avail of the Sacrament of Marriage. This sacrament is unique, in so far as the couple are the co-ministers of the sacrament, one to the other.

In the presence of the priest, their families and guests, they declare their consent to become husband and wife.

Despite all their differences, many couples enter into marriage with the intention of staying married to each other for life, and do so

Marriage is not lived in isolation, but in community, and the newlymarried couple enter the community as witnesses to marriage, and to all that this special sacrament stands for.

ACCORD wishes to congratulate you as you

prepare for your marriage.

We promise to help you prepare well for this wonderful adventure, and to be there for you at all times in the future, offering our support and care for you and your marriage.

Thomas Sabo is open at Pavilions BRIDES and grooms preparing for their wedding will be delighted to know that Thomas Sabo have opened its largest Irish “shop in shop” at Bernard John Jewellers, located at the Pavilions Shopping Centre in Swords.

For cutting-edge, fashionable jewellery for your big day, this north county Dublin store is the ultimate destination.

With the recent refit, the Bernard John store is an ultra-modern concept, with a reserved number of premium jewellery brands included in its offering.

Previously, it was a traditional jewellers, stocking a large range of jewellery and watch brands. Opening its doors to the public in November proved to be a great success with a positive response.

Amanda Keogh, store retail manager, Bernard John Jewellers, said: “We are delighted to welcome Thomas Sabo to our store. We feel this is a refreshing addition, and is not only proving popular with our existing loyal customers, but is also enticing new visitors to our premises. We are very happy with the initial response.”

Every element of the decor and the specific material used were chosen in a spirit of refinement, with a unique objective which gives character to the space.

Thomas Sabo will offer three collections at this retail location, and presented with a highend ambience – Sterling Silver, Charm Club and Watches – with all the latest jewels and watches for trend-conscious men and women.

All existing collections are harmoniously coordinated with each other, and can be combined in a variety of ways which go beyond the limits of the individual collection lines.

2 February 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 23

24 BLANCH GAZETTE 2 February 2012

BRIDE& GROOM Dublin’s complete

g u i d e to yo u r w e d d i n g

l W EDDI NG FA I R l

A venue with a sense of history THOSE who have visited the Royal Marine Hotel in Dun Laoghaire will agree the refurbishment has added to the splendour of this magnificent listed building.

It is a stunning vision of “old and new”.

With high ceilings, wide corridors, intricate detail on the cornicing, Victorian staircases, large sash windows welcoming the natural light of the bay, the hotel truly stands above its peers in the hotel industry.

Character There is a tremendous sense of history and character found in all the nooks and crannies of this Victorian building.

The hotel’s Wedding Fair is taking place on

Sunday, Febr uar y 5, 2012, from 2pm until 5pm.

With 228 bedrooms including 15 Suites, Sansana SPA and The Pier Health Club, as well as a selection of banqueting suites, the Royal Marine Hotel has it all.

Tradition The hotel has a long tradition of hosting weddings. Set on four acres of gardens, with direct access to Dun Laoghaire promenade and pier, it is also ideal for photos.

All members of the wedding party will feel spoilt by the grandeur of this Victorian setting overlooking the Bay. The hotel has recently been approved for civil

ceremonies.

Previous guests of the hotel include Frank Sinatra, Laurel and Hardy and Charlie Chaplin.

Queen Victoria had a 16-course breakfast when she arrived off the boat at Dun Laoghaire and even Michael Collins is believed to have hidden out in Room 210 with Kitty Kiernan.

Whether your wedding will be large or intimate, formal or casual, a marquee, a soiree, a luncheon, or a civil ceremony, the hotel can cater for all of your needs in comfort and style.

Call (01) 271 2512, (01) 271 2513, (01) 271 2514 or email events@ royalmarine.ie for further information.

Enjoy the grandeur of this Victorian setting overlooking the bay

Suit Co comes to Irish market THE Suit Co is a new European suit concept now available in the Irish market.

The people at Suit Co know planning a wedding is a costly and sometimes pressured experience.

They ask the question – why hire a suit when you can own your suit for the same price?

Well, over the past few years, fashion trends have changed greatly for wedding attire - gone are the days of the top hat and tails.

Men are now focused on contemporary fashion trends, opting for slim-fit, tailored-fit and regular-fit in two- and three-piece suits, and the Suit Co has a style for every man.

They also carry a fantastic range of French cuffed shirts and Italian silk ties to complement the suit of choice.

Not forgetting the pageboy, the company can offer a range of suits that will complement the wedding party on this special day.

They have on offer unbeatable suit deals, while maintaining very high levels in suit quality, style, and fashion.

The Suit Co pride themselves on having the best suit value in Ireland, and customer service secondto-none.

Call into them at their O’Connell Street branch, located just beside the spire, or at their Blanchardstown Westend store.

A full tailoring and alteration service is also available.

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2 February 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 25

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT

GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929 Joanna Trollope

INTERNATIONAL best-selling author, Joanna Trollope, is sure to delight her many fans when she delivers a reading on Tuesday, February 7. With 16 top-selling titles behind her, Joanna will be highlighting her latest book, The Soldier’s Wife, which deals with the difficulties a soldier’s wife faces upon his return from a tour of Afghanistan – but will be the same man, once he returns home? Catch Joanna’s reading at 8pm, with tickets priced €10/€8.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Ger Carey Live

IT’S time for the Mill Theatre to present Ger Carey Live, marking an early comic highlight for 2012 for the venue.

Ger’s show for teenagers, Stand-Up For Teenagers, is set to deliver a fascinating – and hilarious – insight into the difficulties and delights of being a teenager in Ireland today.

Although some years past his own teenage years, Ger’s shows promise to be hilariously insightful. Look out for his 11.15am show on February 8, with tickets priced €10/€7.50.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Welcome to the Forty Foot

Nick Cassidy (Sam Worthington) appears to be a desperate man, precariously walking a ledge, high above Manhattan’s streets. However, is Nick really as desperate as he seems – or the perfect foil for a distraction, while something equally dramatic is unfolding elsewhere?

The height of cliche What sounds like a dramatic tale never really rises above being a standard Film With A Twist, and lets viewers down I KATE CROWLEY

ADAM Sandler! Katie Holmes! Al Pacino!

Goodbye! Nothing, alas – nay, not even the threat of having to see Clive Owen starring in a French comedy with, I dunno, CG singing chickens, or something – can force me to sit through the prospect of an (alleged) comedy starring those three.

Brain, I see you sidling over to the back door.

Well, put that suitcase down, because you and I – and both of my delightful readers – shall be considering Man On A Ledge, this week, rather than that lot’s Jack And Jill.

Man On A Ledge doesn’t star Sandler and Holmes, so we’re already off to a good start.

Instead, it stars the slightly more appealing Sam Worthington, Ed Harris and Jamie Bell, with solid support from Elizabeth Banks.

I’d like to say that we’ll

FILM OF THE WEEK: Man On A Ledge ## (12A) 102 mins Director: Asger Leth Starring: Sam Worthington, Jamie Bell, Ed Harris, Elizabeth Banks, Genesis Rodriguez, Noo Yawk, Noo Yawk

OUR VERDICT: IT’S not awful by any means, but there’s just nothing new here to really elevate the film above its peers, as Man On A Ledge follows a pretty standard template to deliver a film that the audience is often one step ahead of. Still, despite its increasingly daft storyline, some deft camerawork, and spirited turns from some support players (notably, Kyra Sedgwick) lift the film a little – just.

be staying on the dizzy heights of cinematic bliss from this point on ... ... but sadly, no, as we’re soon back to earth with a bump, as Man On A Ledge eventually reveals that it has feet of clay, rather than a head for heights, and, err... oh, enough cliches, on with the review.

Nick Cassidy (Worthington) is the titular man on a ledge – a Manhattan hotel window ledge, that is, far above the milling crowd of bystanders and police below, once he clambers out onto the ledge – an act that seems

prompted by the, err, umm, height of desperation. (Sorry.)

It’s not long before police negotiator Officer Lydia (Banks) is on hand, trying to coax the wouldbe jumper back inside, while frantic scenes play out on the street below, with Cassidy at the centre of the predictable media storm. Only ...

And, damnit, I’m now at what I call The Sixth Titanic Planet Of The Apes Sense moment, whereby I’m caught between pressing past the first act set-up and revealing too much of the rest of the film. What’s

a gal gonna do?

Sing like a canary on a ledge, that’s what. (Readers wishing not to know much more can join my brain in sliding out the kitchen door, and I’ll see you back here next week, folks.)

It turns out that – stone the crows! – Nick’s not quite as desperate as he appears, and, in fact, he has no intention whatsoever of jumping, tripping, leaping, hang-gliding, parachuting, flying, teleporting or in any other way leaving the ledge. However, by distracting everyone and creating chaos below, he’s creating a terrific diversion for a heist in the building opposite.

Why, he’s only a wrongly-accused man pulling off an incredibly unlikely stunt to clear his name, isn’t he? Err, yes.

So it is that while Nick’s practically tap-dancing around on the ledge above, his brother, Joey (Bell) and Joey’s girlfriend

Angie (Rodriguez) are breaking into the building opposite, in a bid to – oh, , does it really matter what the film’s McGuffin plot device is? No. See, it’s all to do with Ye Token Rich Villain – a cape-twirlin’, scenerychewin’ Ed Harris – and how best to clear Nick’s name. With a little bit of breaking and entering, naturally. Can they pull off the big heist, or does everything go downhill from the initial premise?

Yes. Oh, wait, my review’ll be too short if I leave it at that. The problem with a film like this is that, well, you’re never really in any doubt of how things are going to go. Honestly, who really would expect Nick to come to any harm in this film?

So, it’s just not a film that you have to vertigo to, and rather than saying: “Don’t look down”, I’ll just say: “Don’t look at all.”

FAMOUS for decades as a men-only bathing area, the Forty Foot was eventually reclaimed as an equal bathing spot for women in the 1970s, with Welcome to the Forty Foot capturing some of the voices and thoughts of the famous site’s lady swimmers. Niamh McCann has an insightful, personal journey to recount, celebrating the legacy of the Forty Foot along the way. Catch the show on Friday, February 3 at 8.15pm, with tickets priced €15/€12.

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26 BLANCH GAZETTE 2 February 2012

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GazetteSPORT

NEW GOLD YEAR: 2012 Sports Awards begins with January’s nominees Page 28

WINTER GAMES: GOLD AND SILVER MEDALS CLAIMED BY HARDY SWIMMERS IN RIGA

Local swimmers chilling after Riga successes sport@gazettegroup.com

LOCAL athletes from Phoenix, Guinness and NAC Swimming Clubs were celebrating last week after returning from the Winter World Swimming Championships in Riga, Latvia, with two gold and two silver medals.

Jerry Kiersey, who trains in Clondalkin pool with Phoenix Swim Club, and Rachel Doyle, also from Phoenix, won

the gold medals for the Irish team, both in their respective 450m endurance races.

T he 450m endurance swim really was an endurance swim, with the water temperature at -1 degrees, and competitors had to swim 18 lengths of the 25-metre pool.

Anne McAdam, also of Phoenix, won the silver medal for the 50m freestyle, and Rachel Lee of Guinness won silver for

the 25m freestyle.

T he athletes were swimming in a 25-metre outdoor pool cut into the ice on a frozen lake, and they will take part in the 25m breaststroke and front crawl, 50m breaststroke and front crawl, and a 450-metre endurance swim.

The competition took place where the river and the Baltic Sea meet, where the air temperature can be below -20 degrees.

A motor keeps the water

Some of the swimmers who took part in the World Winter championships in Latvia

moving in order to stop it from freezing over.

With water conditions in Ireland at present about four or five degrees, the training that they undertook at the Forty Foot in Sandycove in the

run-up to the event was way off the conditions they faced in Riga.

Overall, Ireland were placed seventh out of the 27 countries who entered the championships.

Those who travelled

to Latvia to compete included Anne McAdam, Andre Ray, Bernard O’Sullivan, Isabel Collins, Sean Dervan, Barry Dunne, Rachel Doyle, Adam Lynch and Jerry Kiersey from Phoenix;

Rachel Lee, Tom Healy, Susan Dillon and John Egan from Guinness; Siobhan O’Brien, Declan Harte and Brian Wolverson from NAC, and Caroline Hyland from Dublin Swimming Club.

28 BLANCH GAZETTE 2 February 2012

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2012 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS - JANUARY NOMINEES IN ASSOCIATION WITH

Ras to begin and end in Gazette country in 2012 THE 2012 An Post Ras route, the 60th anniversary of the race, was announced last week, and will begin and end in Gazette country.

Starting on February 20 in Dunboyne, and ending a week later in Skerries, the Ras will be a a challenging eight days of racing, including 28 categorised climbs, including three of the hardest and best-known ascents in the country.

Ras organiser Dermot Dignam believes the 2012 An Post Ras is going to be one of the toughest in years. “It is going to be the most challenging course in recent memory,” said Dignam.

“This is cyclist Stephen O’Sullivan’s second year to design the route, and he has really planned a very hard eight days of racing.”

Jackies to open 2012 campaign in Kildare DUBLIN ladies’ footballers, the reigning Bord Gais Energy Division 2 champions, will play their opening game in the 2012 Division 1 NFL league campaign against Kildare this weekend,

and the venue for the match has been announced as Ballykelly, Co Kildare.

The match will tip off at 2pm on Sunday, February 5, with Pat Kehoe from Carlow set to be the official in charge of this all-Leinster league clash.

For directions to Ballykelly, see http:// www.ballykellygfc.ie/ Teagmhail.asp

# STARof the MONTH

AVA HUTCHINSON

DARRAGH ZAIDAN

DAVID BURROWS

THE DSDAC athlete was in sparkling form in Montreal in January to claim the Olympic qualifying standard in the Marathon, joining teammate Linda Byrne.

LUCAN Cycling’s Zaidan was signed up by one of France’s top amateur teams, VC Morteau, as the young star continues his impressive progress.

BURROWS was part of one of two Irish crews who took a final place in the first Olympic class regattas of 2012 in Miami in January

ST KEVIN’S CC

CASTLEKNOCK U-21

SWORDS JUDO CLUB

THE Clondalkin school claimed the Leinster FAI Paul Murphy Cup in January with an emphatic 5-0 win over St Kilian’s DSD.

SOMERTON was celebrating once again last month when the club’s Under-21 footballers claimed their first Dublin championship title.

THE Swords club claimed an incredible nine AllIreland titles at the National schools dojo in Finglas in January, with an eye on more at NUIG.

# TEAMof the MONTH

2 February 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 29

30 BLANCH GAZETTE 2 February 2012

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

SOCCER: REPLAY FOR PHOENIX AFTER HOME CUP TIE PARITY

Mayor launches Africa Week sporting events THE SPORTS Committee of Africa last week launched its 2012 Athletics Programme, with the assistance of Lord Mayor of Dublin, Cllr Andrew Montague and a number of local athletes who hope to benefit from the programme in this Olympic year.

The launch comes ahead of a high-profile athletics event on Saturday, May 26 at Morton Stadium during the week. The event is hoped to showcase the sporting talents of members of the African community living in Ireland.

Among the events being organised as part of Africa Week, which is backed by the likes of Sport Aid and Sport Against Racism in Ireland (Sari), is a soccer match between an All-Island Under-19 side, and a team made up of the most talented young members of the African community living in Ireland.

At the launch, chairman Mubarak Habib, from Dublin Multicultural Resource Centre, stated: “This Olympics year presents us with a great opportunity. This unique and innovative project will showcase talent but will also provide a platform for cultural integration and social inclusion of people through the medium of sport. In building this stage, the organisers, made up of sports and community organisations, are keen to use the event to promote the oneracehumanrace programme that will be developed to take on a relay run from South Africa to Ireland.”

Lord Mayor Montague said: “In May, we celebrate Africa Week with the African diaspora.

This year, the centrepiece will be the oneracehumanrace Athletics Meet which will open up the scope of cultural integration and at the same time provide the opportunity for the Dublin Athletic clubs to mine the rich talent from the African heritage. We are very privileged to have such a pool of talent available to us. It is a great gift from Africa to Ireland.”

Phoenix were denied progress in the in the FAI Intermediate Cup tie against a feisty Lucan United at Scribblestown

Lucan pull tie from flames FAI INTERMEDIATE CUP Phoenix Lucan United

1 1

I sport@gazettegroup.com

LUCAN United’s fairytale run in the FAI Intermediate Cup continues after they scraped a draw at Scribblestown, when Mark Rutherford’s penalty cancelled out John Brophy’s header in a matter of manic second-half minutes.

For the most part, Lucan were under the cosh by the hosts, an unsurprising state of affairs given three divisions separate the teams in the LSL rankings.

But the ’Nix were frus-

trated for long periods, as Collie O’Neill and Simon Carroll put in massive stints, while the big calls went their way, with Phoenix twice having loud penalty claims turned down. Their irritation got the better of them when Brophy’s dissent earned him a red card three minutes from time.

He will miss the rematch for a place in the quarter-finals of the competition, with Lucan hoping to add to the scalps of Glebe North, TEK United and Cobh Wanderers.

Played on the slick, astro-turf surface, the hosts settled quicker, with

Super Setanta: Clonee clipped in cup cracker COLAISTE Pobail Setanta from

Clonee were denied the Under16B All-Ireland schools’ title in a remarkable comeback by their opponents in the final, St Columba’s Comprehensive School, Glenties, at the National Basketball Arena last week.

In spite of taking the lead in the opening quarter, a last-gasp drive by Glenties saw them over the line to claim the crown.

Danny Giffney’s probing behind the front line, to force a save from Conor Barco.

It was a rare chance to unlock the visitor’s defence, as Lucan sat deep and closed down options. On the counter, Conor Walsh was a willing runner, while Shelbourne legend Rutherford won a free-kick in prime position.

Donal O’Donoghue strode up and came agonisingly close to an opener, banging against the crossbar, while Walsh first-timed the follow-up attack over the bar.

It was the closest either side went in the first half

as, for all of Phoenix’ pressure, chances were scarce.

The hosts did up the ante after the break, with Brophy the focal point for their attacks, and he was the one to nod in a 56thminute goal when Ray Kearns pick-pocketed the Lucan midfield. He battled forward to space on the left-flank and floated a delicious cross for the tall frontman to head powerfully in.

It looked to have eased the tension markedly, but Lucan’s immediate response was a bolt from the blue. Sub Stephen Meehan whipped in a devilish cross which

Walsh skipped over, allowing O’Donoghue to take man and ball at the same time. Rutherford calmly picking out the bottom corner with his spot-kick.

In the aftermath, Swan and Brophy both felt they should have had penalties, but the former was booked for a dive, while the latter’s claims simply fell on deaf ears.

Brophy subsequently had a header go inches wide and a driven effort stick in the side-netting.

Gar Cooney, Kearns and Darren Sargent all came close as the game became frantic, but there was to be no late winner.

2 February 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 31

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FOOTBALL: OLIVER PLUNKETT’S MISS OUT ON FINAL

.

CLUB NOTICEBOARD ST BRIGID’S St Brigid’s would like to extend our

days at 7.15pm.

deepest sympathies to JP Costigan

Loan contributions for our new

(junior hurler) and his family on the

state-of-the-art grass pitch are

tragic loss of Martin this week.

still needed. Application forms on

Well done to our U-21 hurlers on their great win over Lucan in the quarter-final.

Membership for 2012 is now due and should be paid online or by using the traditional forms ASAP. Those who pay their membership ASAP will be automatically entered into a draw for an IPod Touch.

Registration weekend is as follows: February 3 from 7 to 8pm, February 4 from 9 to 12am and February 5 from 1 to 6pm.

Juvenile camogie training for

website.

Congratulations to Phil O’Dywer and Bill Quane on receiving their Coiste na Sean Gael awards.

Well done to everyone involved in organising a great night on Friday with the trophies and fabulous music.

The club lotto is in the Vineyard this Thursday with the jackpot still €15,000.

The annual club Mass will take place on Saturday, February 11 at 8pm in Russell Park.

under-8s upwards continues every

Please keep dropping in your old

Tuesday from 7pm. Juvenile handball

mobile phones behind the club bar

training for all ages is on Wednes-

for new AED!

ST PEREGRINE’S St Oliver Plunkett’s could not match Na Fianna in the second half and miss out on a place in the AFL1 final

Plunkett’s plummet as Na Fianna fly high AFL1 PLAY-OFF S/FINAL Na Fianna St Oliver Plunkett’s

2-10 0-11

I sport@gazettegroup.com

ST OLIVER Plunketts’ bid for a second AFL1 title came to an end last week at the hands of Na Fianna when two second-half goals did the damage at Balreesk, despite the return of Bernard and Alan Brogan to the club’s lineup.

The 2011 Player of the Year Alan came back after a few weeks out of the Dubs’ set-up with an injury sustained a couple of minutes into the annual Dubs Stars’ game, while Bernard had only made it back into the country on the day of the game, after holidaying in South East Asia and Australia.

But they could not turn the tide, with David Quinn and Aidan Downes raising green flags in quick succession to drive the St Mobhi

Road side to victory.

Downes assisted in the goal when he caught good possession out the field, and fed Quinn who finished excellently with ten minutes to go.

Mo m e n t s l a t e r, Downes had a threepointer of his own when he got on the end of a hopeful ball with his fist to put six points between the teams, leaving six between the sides and the game all but done and dusted.

Johnny Cooper was their key man in disrupting the influence of Anthony Moyles and Ross McConnell in midfield. The Navan Road club had led 0-7 to 0-6 at the break with Alan Brogan par ticularly effective.

But Ciaran Duignan was keeping Na Fianna in touch for the most part and he helped forge the first major wedge between the sides when he, Quinn and Adam Caffrey dovetailed to

provide four consecutive points and a threepoint cushion.

Plunkett’s fought back to level once more but the pair of goals in closing stages took the tie out of their hands.

St Jude’s went on to finally take the county league crown they have been chasing for the past few years when they got the better of Na Fianna four days after their semi-final victory, taking the title in their third successive final appearance.

They did so after extra time, running out 1-13 to

0-10 winners at Balgriffin with Kevin McManamon taking centre-stage with a half dozen points before Paul Cunningham and Darren Gallagher closed out the win in the additional period.

Jude’s had beaten St Sylvester’s – top of the regular season’s AFL1 standings – in Parnell Park 0-10 to 1-4, keeping a lively full-forward to just a solitary point in the second half despite the presence of talents like Offaly’s Nigel Dunne and Louth’s Darren Clarke.

CLUB fundraising draw is now up

available to play online using the link

and running and all members should

on the club website.

receive their tickets by the end of this week.

The Lotto jackpot was not won; numbers drawn were 4, 7, 19 and 25.

Next week’s jackpot is €4,200.

Membership for the year is now due. Please make sure membership is paid, as you cannot take the field without it being paid.

Best of luck to Dan McTague in his recovery from injury.

Any member not buying lotto tickets, visit CNP.ie and support your club for only €2 a week. Lotto is also

Foundation award coaching course in football and hurling continues this Saturday in the club from 10 am.

The nursery is being re-launched, please see clubhouse for details.

Entertainment in the club this Saturday from Full Moon.

The first-ever St Peregrine’s 12month calendar is now available, a steal for only €5 and selling very well. Please see Lorraine O’Connor for details.

Club shop vouchers are also available.

ERIN GO BRAGH ANNUAL membership is now due.

be held this Friday in the Vineyard. To

Please note all members fees go

be in with a chance to win the jack-

directly to insurance, the day-to-

pot, please return your completed

day running of the club and to the

Lotto tickets to the box in the Pad-

long-term development of the club.

docks before 9pm this Friday.

Please contact Sinead at edgelys@ gmail.ie for more information.

There was no winner of last week’s

It is so easy to forget to return your Lotto tickets, so why not sign up to the annual draw membership?

lotto jackpot. Numbers drawn were

You can follow our community on

14, 18, 19 and 25. This week’s draw

facebook, twitter and our website,

jackpot will be €3,800. The draw will

www.eringobraghgaa.ie.

TYRRELSTOWN TRAINING has moved to our new

junior teams are as follows: Nurs-

facility in the Tyrrelstown Commu-

ery, U-7, U-8 - Wednesday from 6 to

nity Centre. This is located in the

7pm and Saturday from 10 to 11am.

new Tyrrelstown Educate Together

U-9, U-11 - Wednesday from 7 to 8pm

school. The training times for the

and Saturday from 11am to 12 noon.

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

ALL OF YOUR BLANCHARDSTOWN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

FLIGHT OF PHOENIX: Lucan catch ’Nix cold to earn unlikely FAI Inter replay P30

FEBRUARY 2, 2012

SUPER STARS January nominees revealed inside P28

STEPHEN FINDLATER

blanchardstownsport@gazettegroup.com

PLAYER of the Year Alan Brogan reckons that he will not be too far off the pace despite a knee injury ruling him out of much of Dublin’s January preparations.

The Dubs open their National Football League campaign against Kerry on Saturday in Croke Park in a tantalising repeat of last September’s All-Ireland final.

Brogan, though, has sat out training with a knee injury sustained in the annual Dubs Stars’ game on New Year’s Day in Kiltipper.

But he made his return to action for club side St Oliver Plunketts/ Eoghan Ruadh last Wednesday in their AFL1 semi-final defeat to Na Fianna and looked sharp.

And the star forward reckons his lead-in to the league season is similar to a year ago when he also missed some of the opening phases.

“I think I’ll be okay for Kerry, if

I’m picked. I haven’t done a huge amount of training. We’ll have to wait and see,” he said.

“To be honest, I’m in the same position as this time last year. I think at this stage you have to earn your stripes with Pat Gilroy and have the work done, which is only fair because the lads have been training away in January, so I certainly wouldn’t want to be standing in the way of any of those lads getting their opportunity.

“I think it will probably be something similar this year in that it will be a slow start to the league because I have missed a lot of the training.

But, aside from anything else, it will be a big occasion in Croke Park.

“The night matches are very enjoyable so I think any footballer would want to play in those type of matches. I’d be hoping I might get a few minutes off the bench anyway.”

With a Celtic Cross in his back pocket after a decade in pursuit, Brogan says that some of the pres-

sure is off from one perspective, but spectators are now talking of legacies and how this Dublin side ranks in the grander scheme of things.

“Not every player can be lucky enough to win an All-Ireland. It is great to finally do it and I suppose there is a sense of relief attached to it. All the talk for years was ‘would Dublin win an All-Ireland?’ Then you win one and people are talking, ‘well they have to win two now’.

“We just have to play it like we have done over the last few years, take each game as it comes, just try and get our performances right and hope that leads to where you want to go.

“I think that’s all the league will be about for us particularly. I don’t think the Kerry match bears a huge lot of relevance to the All-Ireland final last year.”

The tie throws in at 7.15pm and is part of a double-header with Tyrone against Kildare. Both games will be televised on Setanta Sports.

Alan Brogan is plotting Kerry’s downfall once more

GazetteSPORT

Brogan back for Kerry tie