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YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER

INSIDE: Local business celebrates 50 years P4

Football: Young Gael makes history after Dub pick Page 32

Rugby: Coolmine claim place in final after victory Page 30

ALSOINSIDE: MOTORS ........................18 BUSINESS .................... 21 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

February 16, 2012

ANNIVERSARY: Local club’s

outstanding legacy See Pages 8-9

Reprieve delight for local youth service I LAURA WEBB

A SUCCESSFUL youth service in Tyrrelstown has been thrown a lifeline by a local developer this week in allowing the service to continue to operate at its existing premises until an alternative space is found.

For just over a year, the service has been running from a vacant commercial unit at Tyrrelstown Shop-

ping Centre with the consent of the developer.

Concerns arose last week when Tyrrelstown Youth Service was told they had just weeks to vacate its premises.

Now the service has been given a much-needed boost after the developer said they could stay until they find alternative premises.

Full Story on Page 10

Style central: A Swap Style event to help local hospice IT WAS A GREAT turn out at the Swap

Style event at the Grasshopper Inn in Clonee recently. Stylish ladies, including Frankie and Dani Cullen, pictured, brought some great unwanted clothes, old and new, and

then searched for items of interest they were interested in swapping and taking home.

The very stylish event was in aid of St Francis Hospice in Blanchardstown.

2 BLANCH GAZETTE 16 February 2012

TEAGASC Debate over planned move of Research and Development Centre

TD says centre move will cost taxpayers millions THE planned move of the Teagasc Research and Development Centre from Kinsealy to Ashtown will cost the taxpayer millions, according to Socialist Party TD, Clare Daly.

She was commenting on a debate she had on the issue with Minister Simon Coveney for Agri-

culture in the Dail last week.

“The Minister totally dodged the issues posed.

On the one hand he said that these matters were for Teagasc to deal with and it would be inappropriate for him to interfere. On the other, when pressed, he admitted that he had a

role. This is just not good enough. Of course the Minister has a role. This organisation is funded from the public purse and operates under his Department. Reiterating statements made previously by Teagasc management is not good enough, particularly when it has

been alleged that this move will cost the state millions in unnecessary expenditure for facilities that already exist in Kinsealy.

“In fact, contrary to what the Minister said, that combining operations will involve cost savings, everything needed

exists in Kinsealy. The Minister failed to answer why €2.5 million is being spent to upgrade classrooms in the Botanic Gardens, when these classrooms already exist in Kinsealy. The practical work will have to continue in Kinsealy because the Ashtown site is too

small and more land will have to be acquired.

“In these austere times, when budgets are being cut and ordinary people faced with vicious cuts, this is even doubly disgraceful. These matters are already before the Dail Public Accounts Committee. All further

works should stop until it is fully investigated.”

She concluded: “Fine Gael and Labour promised reform. Before the election, Minister Reilly said if elected he would ensure that this move would be halted. A year on, and the sound of silence is deafening.”

IT’S YOUR STORY: CURBING ELECTRICAL USAGE

Coolmine community school’s The Off Switch

I RYAN LAWLOR

COOLMINE Community school pupils Alex, Ryan and Sean are busily working on their Sustainable Ireland One Good Idea project. The idea behind this project is that pupils working in groups of between two and six students work together to develop one idea that will help to protect the environment. After developing their ideas in groups, they then have to promote this idea to a particular audience.

Approximately 300 groups entered the competition, and this was whittled down to 100, of which Coolmine CS is includ-

ed. Our project is titled, The Off Switch.

Our aim is to capture the attention of second-level students and to encourage them to curb their use of electrical items including the PS3, Xbox and the Nintendo Wii and, instead, to join clubs or just get out into the fresh air.

To date, we have completed research by surveying students from each year group in our school in relation to their electrical use. We have set up a facebook page, the off switch, which is proving very popular. We hope to get further in this competition and the Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland provided us with a mentor to help us in achieving our goal.

Romanian woman pleads guilty to operating a brothel in the Westend Village apartments

COURTS: WOMAN WILL AVOID JAIL IF SHE GOES HOME

Brothel owner says she will leave Ireland A ROMANIAN woman who ran a brothel in Blanchardstown, has avoided a jail term on the condition that she returns to her country within a week.

Florentina Gerea (29) of Parkgate, Verdamount Apartments, Blanchardstown, pleaded guilty to operating a brothel in the Westend Village apartments also in Blanchardstown in July 2009.

Sergeant Aaron Gormley told Colm O’Briain BL, prosecuting, that investigating gardai obtained a search warrant after observing a number of men “coming to and fro” at the apartment.

He told Dublin Circuit Criminal Court that

several gardai raided the apartment on the July 7, 2009 and found Ms Gerea and another woman working there.

During the search, gardai found items linking Ms Gerea to the apartment, including an ESB bill in her name and the letting agreement.

Sgt Gormley said a laptop, which was open on Ms Gerea’s online escort profile, and a sex toy were also found during the search.

He said that Ms Gerea admitted that the two women were working as prostitutes and that she was in charge.

Defence Counsel, Breffni Gordon BL, told the court that his client has no previous convictions

and had come to Ireland “in search of a better life”.

He said that it hadn’t been a good experience for her and that her only wish was to return to her country because her father is seriously ill. Mr Gordon also told the court that she has lost three brothers to illness.

The court heard that Ms Gerea wants to enrol in a third-level course in Romania to become a qualified nurse and that a conviction would cause her “great difficulty”.

He asked the judge for “sympathy,” before adding: “The embarrassment of this will stay with her for life and it is worse than any sentence the court could hand out.”

He said she had been living in “poverty” and that she got involved in prostitution “purely as a means to an end”.

The court also heard that another man had been involved with the running of the brothel but that Ms Gerea has severed all ties with him.

Judge Patrick McCartan questioned whether Ms Gerea really wanted to go back to Romania and said he was concerned she would simply return to Blanchardstown.

He told Ms Gerea that she has seven days to leave the country and adjourned the case until January next year to make sure she has remained away from Ireland.

16 February 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 3

PEOPLE Billie hasn’t looked back after career change

Locals get in touch with inner chef I LAURA WEBB blanchardstown@gazettegroup.com

RESIDENTS from all over Dublin 15 are getting in touch with their inner chef, and taking time out to brush up on their culinary skills, with a little help from Fairyhouse Cookery School.

Established in 2005, the school, based in county Meath, has broadened its appeal as both kids and adults enjoying the many courses it has on offer.

Founder and owner, Billie O’Shea, took her career path in a different direction, from nursing at Connolly Hospital to pursue her first love – cooking.

After moving to Meath from Castleknock, Billie decided to build her own cookery school right beside her country home, and she hasn’t looked back since.

“When I moved out here and decided to change careers. Cooking has always been a hobby of mine, it was never really a big life plan. I went back to college to study business management. I was teaching for a long time at the hospital, and I love teaching, so I wanted to combine the teaching with the food element,” Billie told the Gazette.

Fairyhouse Cookery school has been lucky enough through the years

to keep a good customer base, which, according to Billie, has “made the recession easier for us”.

“The thing is more and more people are cooking at home and entertaining at home. There is also an increase in the number of children using the facility; we have seen a 50% increase in the last year with children’s birthday parties, one-day workshops and food/fitness camps. It has worked well for us.”

Adult classes also continue to be a hit with a number of one-day courses, night courses, Men in the Kitchen course and demo classes all on offer.

Courses on entertaining

Founder and owner of Fairyhouse Cookery School, Billie O’Shea

in the home are also a hit, thanks to TV programmes like Come Dine With Me. “The most popular at the moment is entertaining and baking. People are entertaining and cooking a lot more at home, and I think once you get a TV programme [like Come Dine With Me] it makes it very trendy,” she said.

Many par ticipants come from the Blanchardstown and Castle-

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knock area, and a number of primary and secondary schools from the area have used the cookery school to host events.

“What’s great about where we are located is that we are literally 10 minutes from Castleknock. People can’t believe how close we are.

I think people like the fact the school is built beside the house, there is that feel of being in the coun-

try without going too far.”

Billie trained at Ballymaloe, Alix Gardner, Ghan House and the National Bakery School.

She has the Advanced Certificate at the Wine Development Board. Her expertise of cooking has also featured on TV3.

For further information on the cookery school and its courses, log onto www.fairyhousecookeryschool.com

ROADWAYS Speed limits to be audited DUBLIN West TD and Minister for Transport, Leo Varadkar is set to engage with the National Roads Authority and local authorities to conduct a nationwide audit of speed limits across Ireland.

Speed limit bands are set by the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport. However, specific limits applied on particular roads are determined by the local authorities, in consultation with the Gardai and in respect of national primary and secondary roads with the NRA. The aim of the audit is to start overhauling the inconsistencies between different counties and regions, and put an end to confusion among drivers.

The NRA and local authorities will be asked to conduct the audit in consultation with the Department of Transport.

4 BLANCH GAZETTE 16 February 2012

EVENT

Evening with the Angels INTERNATIONAL best selling author, Francesca Brown, is hosting An Evening with the Angels next month in her native area of Dublin 15.

On March 15, Francesca, the author of My Whispering Angels and The Voices of Angels, will host the evening at Westmanstown Conference Centre from 7.30pm until 9.30pm.

Francesca was first in contact with her own angel some years back when she fell ill. Since then she has travelled the world and speaks to people about their own angels. During an Evening with the Angels, Francesca talks to the audience about herself and how she came to where she is today. She then channels the audience and interacts in a question and answer session.

For booking details, or further information, contact: 086 1241313.

FOOD Local business is celebrating 50 years

Macari’s five decades of delicious foods I LAURA WEBB

news@gazettegroup.com

A FAMILY-RUN business has been providing locals with a range of delicious foods for five decades, and hopes to continue to tickle the taste buds of residents for years to come.

The Macari Group has been in the heart of Blanchardstown Village for over 40 years and has since branched out to a number of locations across the Dublin 15 area.

In 1959, Italian native Libero Macari opened his first fish and chip shop in Bolton Street, Dublin. Five decades

later, the family-run business remains open for business and, in the D15 area alone it has four branches, Marcari’s in Blanchardstown Village, Marcari’s in Carpenterstown, Romayo’s in Clonsilla and Gino’s Blanchardstown.

Libero’s son, Dominic, is now the man of the chipper house, and with help from his wife, Patricia, and the next generation of Macaris, Dario and Lydia, the p o p u l a r t a ke - aw ay group remains on steady ground despite continuous competition from new food chains opening in the market.

Speaking to the

G a z e t t e t h i s we e k , Dominic said the secret to remaining open in such a competitive market is quality products at the right price.

“We think we offer fantastic quality at reasonable prices; we are constantly adjusting our prices to ensure that they are the most competitive around.”

A recent survey conducted in Britian will leave the health conscious nicely surprised with findings showing that the fish and chip shop menu is much healthier than other take-away options. Findings from the survey said: “An average serv-

Libero Macari believes remaining competitive, and quality food is the secret to remaining open

ing of chips contains more than double the amount of fibre found in an average serving of brown rice or bowl of porridge.”

It also states that the average portion of battered cod and chips has fewer calories, at least half the saturated fat and

just a tenth of the salt of a cheese and tomato pizza and also, that thick chips absorb less oil than thin ones, so chunky chips are healthier.

“A lot of people think a bag of chips is fattening, when really it is just potatoes. These potatoes come in that morning and are sold the same day. A breakfast roll has a much higher fat content then our food. I seriously think we are selling the next best thing to homecooked food. It is all fresh food, prepared and sold on the same day,” Dominic said.

The group offers customers a variety of options on its menu and the most popular is still fish and chips.

“We are renowned for our fresh fish, and chicken fillet burgers, and southern fried chicken are also very popular.

The best new selling product is our grilled chicken wrap.”

To show their gratitude to loyal customers, the Macari group is running a great competition. “We are now running a competition in the four shops [in Dublin 15] for a €500 voucher for Blanchardstown Centre. At this time of year, people are finding it tough after Christmas and we thought there would be nothing better than a chance to win this great prize. This could be someone’s groceries for a month. We also wanted to keep it local and that’s why we went for Blanchardstown Shopping Centre.

“We want to give something back, our way of saying thanks to our customers. With every purchase the customer can enter this free draw,” Dominic said.

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6 BLANCH GAZETTE 16 February 2012

EVENT Helping families to get back on their feet

Opera Gala to help raise funds A LOCAL volunteer-based programme has been helping families in the community get back on their feet by providing emotional and practical support.

Home-start is an independent, local, volunteer-based programme working to prevent families with young children from falling into crisis and breakdown.

This Saturday, as part of fundraising efforts for the programme, an Opera Gala with Good Works Opera Company is taking place in St Brigid’s Church of Ireland, Castleknock at 8pm.

Tickets for this event cost €20 and are available to purchase at the door or at the Parish Office in Castleknock.

Located in Blanchardstown, the programme gives emotional and practical support to parents with at least one child under five.

It provides weekly home visits through trained volunteers, who are usually parents themselves, offering a listening ear and reassurance in a non-judgemental way. It aims to breakdown the sense of isolation and loneliness, to build greater resilience

and confidence. Apart from its programme in Blanchardstown, this programme also operates in Lucan, Swords and Athenry.

Internationally, it is active in 17 countries and on all five continents.

The programme focuses on parents but more specifically on mothers. Findings have shown that pre-school mothers are often the most socially isolated members of society, and that when a mother is better able to cope, the whole family is stronger and better able to withstand life-difficul-

ties. According to a spokesperson for Home-Start, being volunteerbased, the programme is a “very low-cost, high-impact support model”.

“However we would like to very gratefully acknowledge the funding support of the Office for the Promotion of Migrant Integration, Fingal County Council and our teams of volunteers and donors to ensure that we can continue to help families to help themselves. Our website, www. homestartireland.ie, gives more information”.

The public is being invited to attend a major jobs fair at the Blanchardstown Centre in March

EVENT: OPPORTUNITIES FROM LOCAL AND INTERNATIONAL COMPANIES

Jobs and advice fair on the way to D15 I LAURA WEBB

LOCAL TEAM WIN? WE WANT TO KNOW!

Call our SPORTS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email sport@gazettegroup.com

A MAJOR jobs and advice fair, featuring local and international companies, is making its way to the Blanchardstown Centre, offering job opportunities and advice.

The International Employment Services, in association with Fingal Dublin Chamber and Blanchardstown Centre, will set up the fair at the shopping centre for two days, from Thursday, March 1 from 4pm-9pm, and Friday, March 2, from 12-5pm.

Organisers are inviting all members of the public to head down to the cen-

tre to find out more.

Speaking to the Gazette this week, Kevin Quinn, manager of International Employment Services at the Department of Social Protection, said this is one of a series of events the service runs around the country.

“We are inviting all members of the public who want to learn about jobs locally, jobs nationally or jobs internationally.

“It is for local Irish people but also foreign nationals living in the area who might want information on their own countries.

“We have employment experts from 17 EU

member states coming to the event.

“We run between three and five of these events throughout the year in Ireland.

“The last event we ran was in Carlow shopping centre. Shopping centre’s are handy because people can do their shopping, but at the same time drop in and get information. People know where it is and it is very accessible. Such fairs have been enormously successful,” he said.

Opportunities According to Kevin, it is ideal for anyone seeking information on job opportunities but also to get advice on one

essential tool – the CV. “We have a CV clinic there, where people are invited to go and have their CV updated, which is important.

“There is an accepted CV format in Ireland, which is a two-page CV, but, for example, if you want to work in Germany there is a different format, they expect a photo with the CV, all that kind of information is available.

“They are essentially designed to be local, regional events and, normally, we would expect to get about 5,000 people visiting the fair over the two days.

“We would ask people to come down on

the day, it’s very informal and relaxed atmosphere.

“It’s handy to have your CV with you; if you see a job you’re interested in then they can give it to the employer on the spot.

“We have 12 Irish companies coming with a wide range of jobs, including video testers, management, supervisors, hotel staff, IT jobs and call centre jobs.

“T here is a whole range of jobs on offer.

There is no harm getting advice on your CV at the clinic before handing it in. The emphasis is on jobs but also good advice is also available,” Kevin said.

16 February 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 7

EDUCATION: NUMBER OF GROUPS ARE INTERESTED IN SCHOOL PATRONAGE

EVENT

Win your wedding

VEC, C of I apply for patronage THE County Dublin VEC, in partnership with Church of Ireland, has applied for patronage for a new community college in Mulhuddart.

It was announced last week that County Dublin VEC is proposing to operate the new Mulhuddart Community College in conjunction with the Church of Ireland, catering for the local community.

The area of Mulhuddart has, according to County Dublin VEC, been designated as a priority area for a secondary school by the Department of Education.

County Dublin VEC, with the Church of Ireland ethos, aims to provide a new multi-denominational, co-educational and fully inclusive community college with

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‘It is intended that the new college will cater only for the local community’ --------------------------

the highest educational standards and excellent amenities and facilities.

Amenities The college will also offer an excellent sports curriculum and many other amenities and facilities backed up by state-of-the-art technology and systems.

In a statement to the Gazette, a spokesperson for County Dublin VEC said: “The proposed Mulhuddart Community

College (MCC) will be a school under the patronage of County Dublin VEC in partnership with the Church of Ireland Archbishop of Dublin.

“MCC will serve the wider Christian community in the Mulhuddart area.

“In a rapidly changing and pluralist society, the school is committed to all current ecumenical developments and the provision of a multidenominational education service for the whole community.

“It is intended that the new College will cater only for the local community.”

A number of education organisations including Educate Together and Le Cheile have also applied for patronage for this school.

A proud day for Pauline: Local lady receives her FETAC Level Five Cert IT WAS a very proud day for Blanchardstown native Pauline Donnelly recently when she received her FETAC Level Five Cert in caring skills. Pauline cares for her special needs brother, Barry, who attends Stewart’s Hospital. She participates in many fundraising events for the hospital and the fundraising department are greatly impressed by her kindness and work that she does for this organisation. Pauline is a great ambassador for Stewart’s Hospital fundraising department.

DUNBOYNE Castle Hotel is extending the Valentine’s Day celebrations for Dublin couples, by offering them a chance to win a wedding of their dreams.

The popular hotel is celebrating the month of love, and this weekend one lucky couple will get a wedding for free. Couples who book their wedding at the hotel’s wedding fair this weekend will be in with a chance to win this great prize.

The wedding prize package caters for up to 130 guests and includes refreshments and Prosecco on arrival, a fourcourse dinner with wine and bar extension. The winning bride and groom also receive a complimentary tasting menu.

To be in with a chance to win the prize just head down to the spectacular wedding fair this Sunday, February 19 at Dunboyne Castle Hotel. See www. dunboynecastlehotel.com for further details.

8 BLANCH GAZETTE 16 February 2012

Laurel Lodge Carpenterstown

Celebrating local club’s CASTLEKNOCK Celtic was founded in 1987. That year, Irish people were delighted to see Ireland’s Soccer team qualifying for Euro 88 – the first major international soccer event of its history.

That year saw Stephen Roche winning the Tour de France, and Johnny Logan winning the Eurovision Song Contest, with Hold Me Now. The average weekly wage paid to employees in Punts was, when converted to Euro, €249.56, and a pint of black was €1.73.

In the beginning there was Laurel Lodge FC, started up by Tony Jordan and Tom Moore. Tom was team captain, and Tony was secretary, while Tony Dalton was club chairman.

A set of jerseys donated

by Pete Mahon, who later took his team of St Francis FC to the FAI Cup, set them on their way.

Laurel Lodge FC was an adult side but they needed to expand their catchment area and they also wanted to develop a schoolboy team.

So, Castleknock Celtic evolved from those decisions. Pat Dempsey, from Park Drive, was the first chairman, and the earliest schoolboy managers were Tony Jordan, Tom Moore and Jim Geraghty.

Many great volunteers worked very hard and devoted huge amounts of time into building and developing the club into what it is today – one of the biggest soccer clubs in the country.

They cater for more than 800 players, and more than 40 teams, and also have a fine children’s soccer academy – FUNdamental Football.

The club have their own all-weather pitch in Laurel Lodge. With the assistance of the Nation-

al Lottery Sports Grant, and the unstinting hard work of many volunteers and the support of the community, they built a beautiful clubhouse in Porterstown, adjoining their playing fields.

Tony Jordan says that Premier Credit Union organised the necessary sary loan finance for the project, with the facility costing almost €1 million to build and fit-out.

It was designed by local architect, Shay Fenton, and is the envy of many football.

Tony Jordan tells mee that they are lookingg forward to their 25th h birthday celebrations ns in Castleknock Hotel el and Country Club on Saturday night, Februuary 25.

No doubt the existsting members and their h supporters and friends, including many former members, will enjoy the nostalgia on the night, reminiscing and reliving the thrilling encounters at various hard-contested matches over past years.

They will recall with pride the first Schoolboy International Cap, won

by Barry Maguire, from Rushbrook, in Blanchardstown, when he played for Ireland against Wales in 1992.

Hollywood star Colin Farrell played alongside Barry in that team. Collin’s father, Eamonn, coached the team and Eamonn himself donned the famous Hoops’ jersey as a Shamrock Rovers player in the 1960s.

He was on the Rovers’ team that beat Shelbourne 4-1 in the FAI. Cup Final in Dalymount in 1962.

Castleknock Celtic also has cherished memories of winning the double,

Tom Moore’s 1988 team, above; Bern Brogan on tour, Luton, below

A young Hollywood star, Colin Farrell (second-right, front) with his Castleknock peers; below, a team of managers line up, 1995

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‘The club have a fantastic website, at www.castleknockceltic.com.

‘The site is continually updated, and you can follow the progress of their various sides.’

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both the League and Cup, in 1996 at Senior Level, under manager Brian Cummins.

They will also remember the over-35’s team that won the league, with local lads Alan Clarke, Derek Barrett, Seanie O’Hare, Brian Arkins, Derek McGivern, Michael Kelly, Bernie Hennessy and Stan (Paul) Matthews.

The club, being a “Community club”, sees

the role of developing all the players that join the club as of utmost importance.

A programme is in hand whereby all the teams in the club will have appropriately qualified coaches within the next two years.

Recently, 16 manager and four team assistants qualified for Kick Start 2 certificates.

The club have a fan-

tastic website, at www. castleknockceltic.com.

Log on to find out much more about their activities. The site is continually updated, and you can follow the progress of their various sides.

Good luck to Castleknock Celtic, and may your next 25 years be as successful as the previous 25.

On a personal note, three of my boys played

with Castleknock Celtic, and I always found that the management of the club was superb.

The coaches and mentors encouraged the children to play the game – and to enjoy the playing of the game. The emphasis was on teaching the skills and enjoying the sport and, while winning was very important, it was not the sole interest.

That is the essence of sport, and communitybased clubs have this ethos. This ethos of playing the game fairly, and playing it well, can, I believe, be practised not

only on the playing fields of sport, but the playing field of life and the playing field of business.

Sports clubs such as Castleknock Celtic do their bit for society in helping mould and turn out young people of that calibre – the type of people this country needs to lift it out of recession.

I feel sure many readers will support our wish on the 25th anniversary – that the club keeps up the wonderful community work it does so well for the children and youths of the area, whom it looks after so well.

16 February 2012 012 BLANCH GAZETTE 9

A SPECIAL REPORT

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

outstanding legacy ...

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‘The club caters for more than 800 players and 40 teams, and has a children’s soccer academy’ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Visiting the club, the late Brian Lenihan; FAI’s John Delaney and Packie Bonner; (right) a fun duck race as one of the club’s fun non-soccer activities

10 BLANCH GAZETTE 16 February 2012

EVENT Schools take part in exciting first stage of contest

Students battle it out in quiz for top prizes SEVERAL Dublin 15 schools went head-to-head in the first round of this year’s Credit Union Schools’ Quiz competition last week.

A number of schools from the D15 and D7 areas battled it out in the first stage of the countrywide competition, organised by Community Credit Union. The schools were joined by parents, teachers and friends at

St Peregrine’s GAA Club on Monday, February 6.

Over 130 national school pupils from St Ciaran’s, St Philips, St Mochta’s, Sacred Heart of Jesus, Mary Mother of Hope, Saint Brigid’s, Castleknock Educate Together, Mary Help of Christians, St. John Bosco’s and Scoil Thomais went head to head to win some great prizes and get a place in the second stage

of the national competition.

Winners on the night were Mary Help of Christians (Navan Road) winning the Quiz A (U-11) and Saint Brigid’s National School (Castleknock) were declared winners of Quiz B (U-13). St Philips NS (Mountview) and Mary Help of Christians NS were runners up following a nail-biting tie-breaker.

Now in its 21st year, the

event has become the highlight of the school calendar, attracting over 25,000 participants in over 300 venues throughout the 32 counties.

The aim of the quiz, organised by the Irish League of Credit Unions, is to encourage teamwork among young schoolchildren under the age of 13. Questions for the quiz are compiled by primary school teachers and cover a

range of topics like geography, history, music, literature and sport. Local winners now progress to the Chapter Level Final in ALSAA on Sunday, March 4.

Commenting on the first stage of the competition, Community Credit Union CEO, Aidan O’Brien said: “As a community-based Credit Union we are delighted to participate in this excit-

ing annual event, which has become the highlight of the school year. At Community Credit Union, one of our key objectives is to encourage a healthy savings habit in the youth from an early age. If your school would like to participate in next year’s competition, please contact us or visit our website www. communitycu.ie for more details.”

Major funding to link paths A FUNDING allocation of half a million euro has been made available to link up and extend cycle paths in areas across Dublin 15.

This week, the Department of Transport has allocated €500,000 to link priority cycle routes throughout Dublin 15.

The funding will go to linking up and extending the existing cycle routes in Blanchardstown, Clonsilla, Ongar and Coolmine.

Cycle network will link up schools, village centres, parks and community facilities in residential neighbourhoods.

New cycle paths are also being considered to link Dublin 15 with key employment centres in the city centre and elsewhere, and is likely to be provided over the next few years.

Construction work on linking the current routes is hoped to start later this year. The funding is part of an overall funding allocation for sustainable transport projects of €1.5 million in the Fingal County Council area.

Commenting on the allocation this week, Minister for Transport and Dublin West TD, L e o Va r a d k a r s a i d : “Dublin 15 is largely residential and has a g r ow i n g p o p u l a t i o n of young people, so it makes sense to promote cycling as an activity and as a means of getting around. We’re keen to encourage people of every age to cycle more often.”

The youth service is looking at the possibility of operating out of the new community centre in Tyrrelstown

BOOST: CONCERNS THAT SERVICE WOULD CEASE AFTER IT WAS TOLD TO VACATE

Tyrrelstown Youth Service is given a lifeline by developer I LAURA WEBB

A POPULAR youth service in Tyrrelstown has been thrown a life line by a local developer, by allowing the service to continue to operate until it finds alternative premises.

For just over a year, the service has been running from a vacant commercial unit at Tyrrelstown Shopping Centre with the consent of the local developer.

Last week there were concerns that Tyrrelstown Youth Service would have to cease operation after being told they had just weeks to vacate its premises.

Now, the service has

been given a muchneeded boost after the local developer said they could stay until they find alternative premises.

The service is now looking at the possibility of operating out of the new community centre in Tyrrelstown.

Landlord “We knew it would be for a short period of time. Where we are at, at the moment, is that the landlord was aware that the local community centre is now open, but we haven’t had the opportunity to talk about moving in there yet; the landlord is extending our time there until we negotiate that. Which

is great, really helpful,” said Miriam Ryan, of Blanchardstown Youth Services, the organisation behind Tyrrelstown Youth Service.

“In the next couple of days, I am hoping to talk to Fingal County Council to see what the situation is. The centre is newly opened, so we need to get the opportunity to speak to those running it, it is privately managed.

“It is a new model of work, so it’s not something we have experienced before and it is going to take time to consider what the implications will be to the services. I am hoping to meet with FCC at the

end of the week.”

Ty rrelstow n Youth Service established four years ago and operated out of premises on the first floor of the shopping centre.

“It was a great facility, but we found we were a little off the beaten track. We moved to the ground-floor premises just before Christmas 2010.”

Since then, it has had a great support from the local community and is hoping to continue to work in the area.

“It is one of the only services for young people, bar the sports services catering for young people. There is a strong GAA and FAI soccer

club there, which are excellent, but in terms of those young people not interested in sport or who just want the opportunity to engage in educational development, they would have to move outside Tyrrelstown for those opportunities if this wasn’t there.

“We are hoping to remain on in the area and, hopefully, that will happen. It is a new service in Tyrrelstown, and to not have a presence would be quite devastating for the young people,” Miriam said.

Commenting on the issue, local councillor David McGuinness said: “Tyrrelstown Youth

Services is a success.

Many different bodies came together and made it happen. It’s now time for the Blanchardstown Youth Services, Fingal county council and the VEC to re-engage.

Possibility “The possibility of using a space within the new Tyrrelstown Community Centre should be explored.”

“The delivery of community facilities in Tyrrelstown has been an absolute priority for me on the council and a quick, proactive, response from all involved will be needed to resolve this crisis,” Cllr McGuinness said.

16 February 2012 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 16 February 2012

GOT A STORY? WE WANT TO KNOW!

Water look: Fair to make a big splash THIS bridal model couldn’t

Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email news@gazettegroup.com

hide her delight at testing the waters of the luxurious pool at the four-star Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel in Killiney – just one of the attractive features that the hotel is highlighting at its upcoming wedding fair on Sunday afternoon, February 19.

The Castle Hotel’s wedding fair promises to make quite a splash with attending couples planning for their big day, with a complimentary glass of champagne to help put those attending in the mood, while the hotel’s wedding fair will be on hand to run through the hotel’s many fine features, including its banquet suite and fine views over Dublin Bay.

APPEAL: INFORMATION EVENING TO HELP SUPPORT CHARITY

Irish Guide Dogs are looking for volunteers IRISH Guide Dogs for the Blind is calling on Dublin north community members to “Get Going for Guide Dogs” and volunteer in 2012.

The national charity is hosting a volunteer information evening at Croke Park Hotel at 8pm on Tuesday, February 21, to highlight the many ways that volunteers can get involved to help support their work.

Irish Guide Dogs is on a national drive to find volunteers willing and

able to help.

More than 80% of the organisation’s income is raised through voluntary donations, and all services for people living with sight loss or autism are offered free of charge.

Guide dog owners, Tom and Breege O’Neill, from Balbriggan, have been supporting Irish Guide Dogs for more than 30 years.

They know first-hand the life-changing impact a guide dog makes, and

have worked tirelessly for many years to help fundraise so that more people can avail of the organisation’s services.

Tom says: “Without fundraising volunteers, Breege and I would not have the mobility and freedom we currently enjoy through our guide dogs.

“In the last few years, Irish Guide Dogs has needed to do more with fewer resources. Fundraising, in particular, is an area needing additional support.

“We’re hoping that the information evenings will

Guide dog owner Tom O’Neill is pictured with Santa Sabina, Sutton, students during his educational school visit about the work of Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind

highlight the value of the organisation’s work, and inspire more people to

support it.”

Nick Palmer, director, Kingston Technology International, has been an active fundraiser for Irish Guide Dogs for more than ten years, and says it’s his love of dogs that got him initially started.

An active volunteer for the charity’s Balbriggan Branch, Nick says: “I like to describe Irish Guide Dogs as a ‘feel-good’ charity, because you get to see the positive outcomes of your efforts as a volunteer.

To find out more, call Finbarr Roche at 1850 506 300, e-mail finbarr@ guidedogs.ie, or see www. guidedogs.ie.

16 February 2012 GAZETTE 13

CHARITY Raising vital funds for Suas programme

Face-painting fun for St Patrick’s Day Ireland, India and Kenya.

In Ireland, Suas runs the Bridge 2 College programme, which assists children in designated disadvantaged secondlevel school areas in reaching third level.

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

‘Last year in Kenya, Suas was responsible for training 183 teachers ’ --------------------------

Suas provides an interactive third-level learning experience for these children and helps to focus their aims for the future.

L e av i n g C e r t i f i c a t e results have improved due to involvement with this course, as the stu-

dents learn about college life and aim to achieve the best results in order to get there.

Last year in Kenya, Suas was responsible for training 183 teachers and played a vital hand in setting up and strategically effecting new educational initiatives in India and Kenya.

Simple

Simple, but crucial, things, like the electrification of classrooms, also falls under Suas’ sphere of activity.

To help Suas to continue their sterling educational work here in Ireland and abroad, support their Saint Patrick’s Day Fundraising Campaign this year by volunteering or donating what you can.

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...YOUR BUSINESS INTO GROWTH

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S UA S E d u c a t i o n a l Development is holding its annual St Patrick’s Day face-painting to help raise funds for vital educational programmes at home and abroad.

Hundreds of volunteers help out every year in Dublin, Cork and Galway.

Suas is seeking the help of the public again this year.

So, if you want to take up the brush and facepaint for the charity, organise something different, or just help out in general, now is your chance.

Simply log onto www.

Suas.ie, email: info@suas. ie or phone: +353 1 662 1400 and volunteer in your area.

Suas targets underfunded communities in

Oh, MINI! A look at one of the cleanest car brands in Ireland

Rose of Tralee, Clare Kambamettu, at the launch of the Suas Shamrocks for Schools campaign with the Suas Shamrock, Shay Coughlan

MOTORIING PAGE 20

14 GAZETTE 16 February 2012

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY

By Laura Webb

Aging is toast with Ziaja Rose Butter T

HERE is a time in our life when we have to face the inevitable – we are getting older – but that doesn’t mean we can’t age gracefully and fight back against unwanted wrinkles.

A new range of anti-aging face care for woman in their 30s and older vows to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.

Ziaja Rose Butter is a derivative of rose oil, which contains higher quantities of polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Here comes the science – these skin omegas are important nutrients that stimulate collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid (the skin’s very own natural plumper) and, together, they help to maintain skin firmness and elasticity.

Many women, from the age of 30, begin to notice fine lines and wrinkles appearing, and that’s all down to the reduction of collagen and elastin.

The key to tackling the first signs of ageing is incorporating collagen and elastin with supporting ingredi-

Ziaja Rose Butter Moisturising Day

Ziaja Rose Butter Skin-Firming Night

Ziaja Rose Butter Micro Peeling –

Cream – €6.99

Cream – €6.99

€4.79

Ziaja Rose Butter Water – €4.50

ents into daily routines, and regular exfoliation with a gentle scrub or athome peel.

The Ziaja rose butter range uses ECO-certified ingredients, and its floral scent is designed to give skin a great sensual experience.

What’s great about this range is that it doesn’t have to break the bank, with the full range available under €25.

ing film of moisture that restores the skin’s natural protective barrier.

This rich but light-feeling cream soothes redness, and encourages the skin to repair and restore, smoothing out lines and wrinkles.

and hyaluronic production – plumping the skin from within, helping to visibly reduce lines and wrinkles.

Formulated to be mild and nondrying, this gentle cleanser will leave every skin type fresh and clean.

It removes make-up, surface grime and oils, softens the skin, reduces skin tension and soothes irritations.

Dermatologically- and ophthalmologically-tested, it is colourants, parabens and fragrance-free.

Ziaja Rose Butter Moisturising Day Cream – €6.99 This product gives skin a nurtur-

Ziaja Rose Butter Skin-Firming Night Cream – €6.99 This fast-absorbing and intensively-moisturising cream works to refine and firm skin texture while you sleep.

The active ingredients combine to boost moisture levels in the skin,

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Ziaja Rose Butter Micro Peeling – €4.79 This delicately cleanses and massages the skin, and peels off dead skin cells.

It stimulates oxygen circulation, and reveals a visibly revitalised complexion, restoring natural smoothness and softness.

Ziaja Rose Butter Water – €4.50

This range is available at McCabes pharmacies and independent pharmacies nationwide. Shop online at www.originalbeauty.ie.

16 February 2012 GAZETTE 15

16 GAZETTE 16 February 2012

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC Time for a spring clean in your music collection I DEE WOODS

LIVE REVIEW: A NIGHT OF SUBLIME MAGIC AT THE SUGAR CLUB

Sweetness and soul I JESSICA MAILE

I CAN’T believe it’s the middle of February already. And although it may not feel like it, spring has sprung and what better time for a spring clean...of your music collection?

We all have a favourite band or artists who we won’t hear a word against. We collect their albums and re-issues and wear their logo emblazoned across a t-shirt, while simultaneously guffawing at a friend who records Glee every week (I’m not really sure why we’re still friends, actually).

Working in a station that plays classic rock, it’s striking how strongly our listeners feel about the music we play and what it means to them. One listener will say: “If it doesn’t have Peter Green in it, then it just isn’t Fleetwood Mac,” while another will name Rumours as their favourite album.

Everyone’s got an opinion, which is what makes it interesting, but if working in a station where listeners are so passionate has taught me nothing else, it’s that all music has something to offer.

Try it yourself: Venture out of the Rock section in the music shop or borrow that album your mate keeps banging on about. You could be pleasantly surprised.

I HAVE literally thousands of songs on my iPod, but I have been left wanting for something new, something fresh and definitely something real.

Since the beginning of 2012, I have been searching for some real voices, something that rings strong and true.

Voices that sound good in the recording studio, as well as live, and whichare not manufactured for a vapid TV talent show.

Artists that pay their dues in small venues and work their way to the big time because they can actually perform.

Luckily for me, I made my way to The Sugar Club last weekend, where

I was priveleged to see The Staves and Michael Kiwanuka.

The Staves — Emily, Jessica, and Camilla Staveley-Taylor — are sisters from Watford, England, blessed with amazing voices. They weave intoxicating three-part harmonies through songs about love and longing with a folk flair.

Songs like Mexico and I Try, from their debut EP are enough to make anyone melt, as their voices cast their spell.

The Staves have a purity all of their own and are a joy to listen to.

After being completely delighted with The Staves, I was introduced to Michael Kiwanuka.

Michael is a 23-yearold Londoner who has

Michael Kiwanuka brought the soul to the Sugar Club last week

soul without compare.

He has been compared to the likes of Bill Withers and Otis Redding, which you can definitely hear in the richness of his voice, especially in

songs like Tell Me a Tale and Home Again.

Although his style is not exactly original, and has been labelled retro-soul, his strong but soothing voice captures

the spirit of the music of the past and brings it up to date with his poetic lyrics and catchy melodies. His album, Home Again, will be available March 12.

WE HAVE 146,000* READERS EACH WEEK *based on standard industry measurements

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS CALL 60 10 240

16 February 2012 GAZETTE 17

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

FACTS: OLDER CATS HAVE A FULLY-FORMED PERSONALITY MAKING THEM BETTER PETS

Feline like you need some company?

ARE you looking for the puurrrfect partner?

Feline like you need someone to keep you company; to be kind to you on those lovely spring evenings?

A companion who adores belly rubs and enjoys squeaky toys?

Pawtastic! We’ve got the cutest companions for you, right here at Ireland’s oldest and largest animal rescue shelter.

Why not drop up and see for yourself, because the Dublin SPCA animal shelter is bracing itself for the onset of kitten season and would dearly like to re-home some special older felines in order that they can free up space in preparation for orphaned kittens.

Interested? Then read on…

• Annette is a sevenyear-old domestic shorthaired tabby and white female who’s looking for a quiet, relaxed life partner.

This independent woman doesn’t like fuss and, although she may appear to be shy, interested parties will soon realise Annette loves to play and, most of all, looks forward to spring evenings spent huddled by the fire.

If you can provide Annette with candle-lit suppers, we guarantee, she’ll soon be eating out

of your hand.

• Angel and Gucci – A couple of swells, these wise guys are strictly exclusive and must be re-homed together.

Why? Because the brothers refuse to be separated; besides Angel is only 10 months and needs big bro Gucci (4) to keep him in check.

T hese magnificent moggies would ideally be suited to a family with older children who can provide them with a stimulating, fun environment.

• Fatboy and Sullivan – Two siblings who like to live it large like the Lord and Lady of the manor.

You see, the pair, who are the best of buddies, are like a comedy duo with fun and f lir tatious Sullivan playing the adventuress who likes to drink from the tap before exploring her territory, while Mr Smooth, Fatboy, is a laid back moggy who gets his kicks snuggling under the duvet and purring for cuddles.

An older cat’s personality is fully-formed making them far less likely to provide any nasty surprises to their adoptive family in the future.

So, what the new owners sees, is what the new owner gets.

If properly intro duced, the older cat is less likely to upset an already resident cat or dog than a rambunctious kitten.

Older cats are usually litter- and scratch-post trained so their owners don’t have the hassle of

teaching them, there are fewer messes to clean up and the furniture is more likely to be left intact.

For more

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

The Dublin SPCA has a whole range of cute companions for you

18 GAZETTE 16 February 2012

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs

PUNTO VAN AND AMAROK WIN BIG WITH IMWA: THE Fiat Punto Van and Volkswagen Amarok have been named Category Winners of the Continental Irish Van of the Year 2012 title by the Irish Motoring Writers Association (IMWA) Van Jury.

All nine voting members of the IMWA Van Jury took part in the vote. In deciding on these category winners, the jury members took into account such attributes as load capacity, reliability, overall versatility, cost of ownership and drive comfort.

Presenting the awards to Adrian Walsh, Fiat Ireland; and Paul Burke, Volkswagen Ireland, Paddy Murphy, of Continental Tyres said: “In today’s tough commercial vehicle market, these two great vehicles have won the valuable endorsement of the Irish Motoring Writers Association. I am sure that winning this Continental Irish Van of the Year Category Award will be a huge boost for both the Punto Van and Amarok.”

Michael Moroney, chairman of the IMWA van jury, said: “The Continental Irish van category awards are of particular interest to Irish van / commercial drivers and fleet managers, as they highlight the niche models best suited to the particular requirements of the Irish market.”

Brigita Moloney holds up the keys to her new Ford Fiesta presented to her by Dr Senan Mullins, CEO The Care Trust; Mary Kennedy, Care Trust Ambassador, and Eddie Murphy, managing director and chairman, Ford Ireland

Happy winner in Ireland’s largest car giveaway DUBLIN’S Brigita Moloney, a Ballinteer local, was this week announced as the winner of a Ford Fiesta in The Care Trust’s fundraising draw, which, as Ireland’s biggest car giveaway, will see 36 cars up for grabs in 2012.

Picking up the keys for her new car, a delighted Brigita said: “What a way to start 2012, I am absolutely thrilled to win a car as part of The Care Trust draw. I love the sleek and sporty look of the Fiesta

and I can’t wait to get behind the wheel.”

Dr Senan Mullins, CEO of The Care Trust said: “Congratulations to Brigita – we wish her many years of safe and happy motoring. Without the support of Brigita, and thousands of other Irish people, The Care Trust wouldn’t be able to provide funds for its valuable work. Think of it, for a little more than the cost of a cup of coffee per week, our contributors

have the opportunity to win a lovely new Ford Fiesta, or one of many generous cash prizes in each of our 36 draws.”

Clondalkin native Mary Kennedy, The Care Trust Ambassador, was also on hand at the prize draw and had nothing but praise for the work the trust carries out: “With all that The Care Trust does to raise funds, the most incredible part is seeing how many people have been helped – and

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

‘With all that The Care Trust does to raise funds, the most incredible part is seeing how many people have been helped’ --------------------------------------------------------

just how the services and support for children and adults with disabilities have improved.”

Set up more than 50 years ago, The Care Trust fundraises to provide essential funds to the

Central Remedial Clinic (CRC), Rehab and the Mater Misericordiae University Hospital.

The money raised helps fund these organisations in their work with the many thousands of

children and adults with physical, medical or intellectual disabilities, those who are socially disadvantaged and those requiring medical care.

The Care Trust’s prize draws take place three times per month with all winners notified by post.

For €3.50 per week / €15 per month, contributors are eligible for all draws. For more information, see thewwwcaretrust.ie or phone (01) 200 0060.

New Porsche Centre Dublin opens in Dun Laoghaire PORSCHE presence in Ireland steps up a gear this month with the opening of Porsche Centre Dublin, adding new car sales to the existing pre-owned and after-sales business. This positive development is supported by local customer demand for new Porsche models and represents a vote of confidence for

future business in the Irish market.

The new centre expands the existing Porsche Service Centre site on Rochestown Avenue and comes at an exciting time for Porsche enthusiasts in Ireland, following the recent launch of the all-new 911 Carrera, and forthcoming introduction of the new Boxster.

The powerful line-up of sports cars available at Porsche Centre Dublin also includes the mid-engined Cayman coupe, versatile all-wheel drive Cayenne and four-door Panamera Gran Turismo. The Cayenne Diesel and Panamera Diesel models benefit from road tax of €677, thanks to their low

emissions of 189 and 172 g/km CO2 respectively.

Porsche Centre Dublin is located just off exit 16 of the M50 at Rochestown Avenue, Dun Laoghaire. Customers can contact the Centre on 01 235 3375or by email at info@porschedublin.ie

16 February 2012 GAZETTE 19

20 GAZETTE 16 February 2012

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS DRIVING

Proper training not being offered MORE than half of businesses operating vehicle fleets do not offer their employees training on safe, cost-efficient driving a new study has revealed.

According to research, commissioned by fleet management specialists TomTom Business Solutions, 54 per cent of companies have not introduced formal training to improve their employees’ driving style – even in the face of rising fuel prices.

The study discovered that 35% of companies do not even offer their drivers fuel-saving tips, even though 83% believe their staff is guilty of speeding.

“Appropriate driver training can have a significant impact on a fleet’s cost base,” said Giles Margerison, director UK and Ireland for TomTom Business Solutions.

“Heavy acceleration, braking and excessive speed have the biggest negative impact on fuel economy and it is important employees are made aware of the knock-on effects caused by bad driving habits.

“Alongside company-set benchmarks for performance, fleet management tools are a cost-effective way to promote greener, safer, more efficient driving. Globally, our systems account for savings of around €1.5 million each day.”

A further 80% of those questioned believed their drivers were involved in harsh driving practices, but only 27% offered incentives for employees to improve their miles per gallon – and cut costs as a result.

See http://youtube/ aR7IF-OkPTk for advice from TomTom Business Solutions on how to promote greener, safer, drivers by giving them immediate feedback on their performance behind the wheel.

MINI has the lowest average CO2 emission’s (117.1g/km) making it the cleanest brand in Ireland

Another reason to enjoy MINI A

RECENT CO2 survey of Irish new car registrations in 2011

by Motorcheck.ie has revealed MINI to have the lowest average CO2 emission’s (117.1g/km) making MINI the cleanest brand in the land.

Motorcheck.ie CO2 measurement is a true-to-life survey of the 89,000+

vehicles registered in Ireland last year.

Combining this significant achievement with MINI’s competitive pricing, made all the more affordable through MINI Financial Services and low-cost road tax, is it any wonder that January 2012 saw a 100%+ increase in MINI registrations versus the same month last year. The best-selling model, the

MINI First, is currently available for just €299 per month with a €299 deposit*.

The survey was carried out by the car history experts Motorcheck.ie.

Motorcheck.ie provides vehicle history information for any vehicle registered in Ireland, Northern Ireland and the UK.

See http://www.motorcheck.ie/ blog/mini-is-the-cleanest-car-in-ireland/ * Available through MINI select with MINI Financial Services over 36 months at 10,000km per annum with 3.5% APR. Optional Final Payment (inluding €75 fee) of €8,394.

New Ford B-Max to be revealed in Geneva FORD will throw open the doors to its all-new production-ready B-MAX compact multi-activity vehicle when it is revealed at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March.

Ford president and CEO, Alan Mulally, will be in Geneva to unveil the new B-MAX, which promises to set new standards with its unique design and best-in-class technological features. Its return to Geneva, in full production form, comes just a year after the concept was unveiled at the Geneva show.

According to Stephen

Odell, chairman and CEO of Ford of Europe: “The B-MAX combines an exciting, innovative design, with features that only previously have been found in bigger cars.

“It’s a brand new car that responds to the needs of an increasing number of customers who want much more from their small cars,” he said.

Bringing the B-MAX to production demanded a new approach to door construction, which has resulted in wide-open access for drivers,

passengers and luggage – with the centre pillars integrated into the doors themselves.

The B-MAX also will deliver superior craftsmanship and high-quality materials rarely found on an affordable compact car, together with flexible seating and class-leading load-space.

Ford’s new 1.0-litre EcoBoost petrol engine, with its advanced combination of power and efficiency, will be available on the B-MAX, as will Duratorq TDCi diesels.

The Ford B-MAX goes on sale in Europe later this year.

The new B-MAX promises to set new standards with its unique design and best-in-class technological features

16 February 2012 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

ENTERPRISE: NEW SPONSOR FOR THIRD-LEVEL COMPETITION

A NON-EURO CURRENCY ?

Q – While many commentators say the euro will fail or go to a two-tier system, I know you are still positive about the euro. But if you had to put some of your money abroad, which currency would you invest in, why and what about the Norwegian Krone? Alison – Co Dublin A – I am on record as saying the euro will not fail, nor go into a two-tier system. I do, however, agree with you in the diversification philosophy. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket, etc. However, as you saw from the Swiss Franc, too much investment caused the currency to strengthen, exports started to fall and the Swiss gov-

At the announcement of AIB’s sponsorship of the Bolton Trust / DIT Student Enterprise Competition, were Rea O’Neill, chairman, Bolton

ernment intervened and devalued the Franc by 10% - so

Trust; Nick Donnelly, regional director AIB; Paul O’Sullivan, dean of the DIT College of Business and Paudie O’Donnell, DIT

much for safety ! So, the biggest worry is that exchange rate. There is no point in moving it to another currency, whether it be Canadian or Australian dollars, Sterling, US dollars because unless it is a permanent move, you will be repatriating the funds eventually and probably anxious at the rate it will then be. One solution and what I would recommend is a Danish Krone account: - Minimum € 20,000 to open the account - Investment period : 2 years 6 months - Interest rate : 1.25% per annum

AIB teams up with DIT in enterprise awards

- Exit rate is guaranteed to match the entry rate or better (you cannot lose)

STAFF REPORTER

- Covered by the Deposit Protection Scheme (€100,000 per person ) Call or email me for details. This is only available with Danish Krone – if you want Norwegian Krone, you have to take the exchange risk and ask is it worth it ?

CREDIT UNIONS Q – I took out a car loan with my credit union at 6.7% for five years nearly three years ago. I am now in the middle of a contract payment and got a letter to say they are increasing this rate to 8.9%. Can they do this ? Am extremely annoyed, feel cheated and wonder do I have any rights ? Mary – Co Dublin A – I really empathise with you as it does seem unfair.

You are on what is known as a variable rate loan. This gives your credit union the right to increase rates not only as they increase in this country, but when they feel additional margin is required. With the recent events – the Financial Regulator had ordered over 300 of the 409 credit unions to stop paying dividends and interest as both liquidity and bad debts were issues – including the Newbridge Credit Union situation where an outside accountancy firm was appointed by the Central Bank to manage the office. On the bright side, any monies held are safe as they are covered by the Government’s Deposit Protection Scheme up to € 100,000 per person.

Go back to the credit union and renegotiate. If they do not lower the rate to the original rate, ask them to extend the loan so at least you are making the same repayments as before. Extending that loan to six years would DECREASE your repayments by € 8.42 per month !

Good luck with the negotiations.

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

THE Bolton Trust/ DIT Student Enterprise Competition has announced a three-year sponsorship agreement with AIB. The Bolton Trust is an independent voluntary trust, actively committed to assisting people in creating sustainable business.

It was established in 1986 by staff of the Dublin Institute of Technology.

As part of its commitment to encourage and promote new business enterprise in Ireland, the student enterprise competition was set up in 1993.

It is a business plan competition and is open to the 20,000 students of DIT and has been running for 19 years. In that time it has grown to be the largest third-level competition of its kind in Ireland.

The competition promotes innovation and entrepreneurship amongst the students, and encourages them to apply their course work creatively to the

demands of real-life enterprise.

This year is the first year of AIB’s involvement with the competition in a sponsorship role. Sharing a commitment to students and enterprise and innovation, it is an exciting and promising partnership.

N i c k D o n n e l l y, regional director of AIB Dublin South said: “We are delighted to be able to partner such a dynamic and innovative college as DIT, and applaud their work in providing students with the practical skills required for an everchanging workplace.

“In conjunction with DIT, the hard work and dedication of the members of the Bolton Trust provides a platform for potential entrepreneurs to flourish.

“AIB recognises the importance of nurturing this emerging talent and, through our support of the Student Enter prise Competition, would like to encourage the creativity and innovation which is essential for any successful business.”

22 GAZETTE 16 February 2012

GazetteTTRAVEL Travel EXTRA HE year 2012 is Northern Ireland’s time to shine and emerge as an international mustsee tourism destination, according to Howard Hastings, chairman of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board (NITB).

Speaking in Dublin last week, Mr Hastings urged people throughout Ireland to head north and play their part in making this a year to remember for Northern Ireland.

“This really is our time and our place to change global perceptions of Northern Ireland and put ourselves firmly on the global tourism map,” said Hastings.

NITB’s new £2 million marketing campaign, spearheaded by a new TV ad highlighting the exciting year ahead, was launched across Ireland in recent weeks, and is proving a big success, according to the board’s market manager (ROI), Fiona Cunningham.

“The reaction to our all-Ireland marketing campaign in the first two weeks has been phenomenal,” Fiona said.

“The new advert is proving to be a huge success, not only on TV but also on YouTube, where it has picked up more than 34,000 views already.

“The opening of the world’s biggest Titanic exhibition in Belfast, and the associated Titanic Belfast Festival, kick-start a remarkable programme of historic events,” she said.

A new website, www. ni2012.com, contains everything visitors need to know about attractions and events in Northern Ireland this year.

For now, we have compiled a breakdown of some must-visit attractions happening in 2012.

T

Scott Wylie-Dob finds a short cut at the launch of GraboneEscapes.ie

GrabOne Escapes sends Dubliners off packing BUDGET-SAVVY travellers in Dublin will be grabbing bargains galore on the new GrabOne Escapes website, www.GrabOneEscapes.ie, which launched last week.

Dubliners can save over 50% off everything from city breaks to scenic retreats, family attractions, romantic getaways, spa breaks, cultural activities and outdoor adventures.

GrabOne Escapes will feature a range of fantastic daily offers for staycations and short breaks in Ireland, along with a selection of international escapes.

The launch comes on the back of the hugely successful deal website, GrabOne.ie, which is already a winner with shoppers from Grafton Street to Dundrum, Temple Bar to Swords (and all across Ireland) who have saved over €6 million in less than a year.

Commenting on their new travel venture, Ruairi Doyle, general manager of GrabOne said: “GrabOne Escapes is a dedicated travel website, working with the best tourism and travel operators to offer outstanding value on breaks throughout the country and further afield.

GrabOne Escapes makes taking a break in Ireland or abroad even more affordable. And it is also a fun way to discover new places you may never have even thought about visiting.”

The launch is well-timed, with a recent survey by the National Consumer Agency indicating 57% of Irish consumers have already signed up to an online discount site, with an estimated 32% of the adult population having made a purchase and travel is, by far, one of the services in most demand.

Clontarf Castle in Dublin, Pillo Hotel in Galway and Irish Landmark Trust with properties across Ireland, are just some of the tourism trade who have already signed up for the initiative.

How does it work? Simply sign up to www.

GrabOneEscapes.ie to view the great deal that’s on offer. If it takes your fancy, click buy and you’re ready for your next trip - all for a fantastic price.

GrabOne Escapes is built on the back of their hugely successful deal website GrabOne. ie which is currently available in Dublin, Cork, Belfast, Galway, Kerry, Limerick and the South East, and has saved Irish consumers over €6 million in less than a year.

Titanic Belfast Festival 2012: Belfast, April-May

A FUSION of international-scale events worthy of the great ship her-

self is planned to mark the centenary of Titanic’s fateful maiden voyage.

From the opening of the multi-million pound Titanic Belfast visitor attraction, through to commemoration services on the 100th anniversary of the ship’s sinking, there will be something for everyone. A range of plays, tours, talks, films and major musical events will all position Belfast as the “home” of Titanic.

Peace One Day concert: Derry-Londonderry, June 21

THE Peace One Day Concert on midsummer’s day will attract massive media attention and the biggest names in music.

It’s one of the kick-off events for the UK-wide London 2012 Festival, the finale of the four-year Cultural Olympiad which complements the sports at the Olympic and Paralympic Games.

T his concer t will showcase the iconic new public space at the historic Ebrington site in Derry-Londonderry, which is linked to the city centre via the new Peace Bridge. Massive Attack have already been confirmed to play at the gig, and other acts will be confirmed shortly.

There has never been a better year to discover Northern Ireland

2012 Irish Open: Portrush, June 28 – July 1

THE 2012 Irish Open will be hosted by Royal Portrush Golf Club, bringing the world-class event to the Northern Ireland venue for the first time since 1947. Home-grown golfers Darren Clarke, G r a e m e M c D owe l l and Rory McIlroy have enjoyed recent major successes and have firmly established Northern Ireland as the golfing capital of the world.

Land of Giants: Belfast, June 30

LAND of Giants will celebrate iconic Northern Ireland giants on an epic scale, with a spectacular

show featuring music, acrobatics, pyrotechnics, special effects and a cast and crew of over 500 people, all in front of an audience of 20,000 on Belfast’s newest events space, the Titanic Slipways.

The event takes inspiration from some of the giants found in our local history, literature,

society and landscape – Jonathan Swift’s Gulliver, the legendary Finn McCool, Harland and Wolff’s iconic Samson and Goliath, the ships, Olympic and Titanic, industrial achievements and, of course, the Giant’s Causeway.

Funded by Legacy Trust UK, Land of Giants will be a highlight of the

London 2012 Festival and will play a key role in the lead up to the 2012 Olympic Games.

Peace Camp, by Deborah Warner: July 2012

C R E AT E D b y t h e renowned opera and theatre director, Deborah Warner, in collaboration with actor Fiona Shaw and creative producer

16 February 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray M

FastTravel A wealth of craft, food and small businesses on show in Meath CRAFTERS Ireland’s hugely popular Meath Craft and Food Fair are a great day out for the whole family, and will be taking place in the Newgrange Hotel, Navan, on February 26 from 12 noon until 5pm.

Visit over 30 of the best crafters, foodies and small businesses in the area, including restaurant-quality curry sauce, wickless candles, the best cakes and biscuits Meath can offer, woodturners, hand made jewellery, the forever living company, plus much much more.

For those who want to exhibit at this event, please contact Scott on 085 28 28 420, or check out www.craftersireland.ie.

and d take k part iin the h cell ebrations to welcome to Northern Ireland yacht crews from around the world.

FLAGS by Hans Peter Kuhn: The Giant’s Causeway, August/ September

THIS is the year the Giant’s Causeway unveils the visitor centre worthy of its giant reputation as a must-see destination.

FLAGS by Hans Peter Kuhn, a London 2012 Festival event, is an installation embedded in the dramatic landscape of the Causeway, creating a new visitor experience, drawing on the natural power of the elements. A series of flags, randomly positioned along the banks of the cliff face, will rotate freely in the wind, creating a flickering pattern of yellow and red set against the backdrop of this spectacular landscape.

Artichoke, this major new living artwork has been co-commissioned

by Derry~Londonderry Culture Company 2013 for the Cultural Olympiad.

Installations will appear simultaneously from dusk until dawn at locations around the coast of the UK and Ireland. These glowing,

murmuring artworks are a poignant exploration of love poetry and a celebration of the extraordinary variety and beauty of our coastline.

Clipper Homecoming Maritime Festival: Derry-Londonderry, July 5-8

THE Clipper Round The World Yacht race will

make its homecoming leg from Nova Scotia to Northern Ireland, arriving in Derry-Londonderry in late June 2012, and welcomed by a four-day maritime festival at the end of the following week to celebrate the visit of the world’s longest race.

This is an opportunity to be inspired by the endeavour of the crew

50th Ulster Bank Belfast Festival at Queen’s: Belfast, October 19 – November 3

DANCE, music, theatre, visual arts, film, classical and world music will all come to life in many forms during this autumnal event.

This year promises a world of talent on your doorstep, and, in 2012, an extended programme will dramatically increase its visibility and Northern

l d cultural l l offering, ff i Ireland’s including Belfast’s worldclass cultural venues.

For full details on the key events in ni2012, visit www.ni2012.com.

24 BLANCH GAZETTE 16 February 2012

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT and

GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929 The Glee Experience

STRAIGHT from two sell-out shows at The Olympia Theatre, The Glee Experience is a musical tribute to the smash hit TV show featuring all your favourite characters, songs and storylines.

The workshop is at 3pm and 7pm on Saturday, February 18, with tickets priced €15.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 The Magic of Musical Theatre at The Mill THE Mill Theatre is delighted to present this benefit with some of your favourite performers in a tribute to musical theatre. Guest artistes include West End star Roisin Sullivan, Sandra Oman, Eoin Cannon, The Glencullen and Kilmacud Musical Societies, Garry Mountaine, Jack and Mac, Joe Conlon, Alison Vard Miller and many more make this a truly magical evening.

This performance takes place on February 18 at 8pm.

Admission: €20/€18

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Eddi Reader CONSTANT touring with her band has created a magical organic chemistry between Eddi and her players. Whilst renowned for her technical vocal ability, it is Eddi’s passion and instinct that combine to ensure she connects emotionally with her audience.

She famously harmonised with Annie Lennox, touring with the Eurythmics, after her time with successful punk outfit Gang of Four. It was the short-lived but warmly remembered Fairground Attraction that really brought Eddi Reader into the limelight though.

February 20 at 8pm. Tickets €20 / €18 conc

Oskar (Thomas Horn) is destined to spend all his inquisitve, highly-focused energy on uncovering his wise father’s (Tom Hanks) last mystery when he discovers a mysterious key following his father’s death in the 9/11 attack in New York. Can Oskar discover the key’s importance?

Highly calculating Despite being a somewhat manipulative tale, the central actors’ performances elevate the film, to great effect I KATE CROWLEY

WITH the aura of Valentine’s Day still lingering, I know that my dear readers are, most likely, expecting me to produce a luvverly film or two for your consideration.

Well, tough – you’ll both have to pick something “rosemantic” yourselves to go and see.

Instead, Nicolas Cage is back with his sequel to Ghost Rider, and, with Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance, Cage delivers a tour-de-force bravura performance, as – Oh, who am I kidding.

You both know very well that I can’t abide Mr Cage, and so, I’m moving on to something less tragic… …or, well, to something actually much more tragic. We’re now at the point where what’s simply referred to as 9/11 is – just about – acceptable as a plot-driver in films; something that’s far enough back, yet still close to

FILM OF THE WEEK: Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close #### (12A) 129 mins Director: Stephen Daldry Starring: Thomas Horn, Tom Hanks. Sandra Bullock, Max von Sydow, John Goodman, the ghost of 9/11

OUR VERDICT: BASED on the best-selling (and highly controversial) book of the same name, this post-9/11 tale can feel pretty manipulative in parts. Still, young newcomer Thomas Horn delivers a knockout performance which rises above the somewhat calculated direction of the film, with his memorable character lifting the entire film by a grade, while Hanks and Bullock also deliver strong, memorable roles.

today, to have resonance with many viewers, yet to almost be comfortably removed from the events of those awful days.

Here, 9/11 is the catalyst for Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close; the film loosely based on the top-selling book of the same name, by Jonathan Safran Foer.

Oskar (Horn) is a bright, talented and inquisitive young boy, drifting through life in New York with his mother (Bullock) since the loss of his father (Hanks) in the World Trade Center attack, where dad had

been at a meeting in one of the Twin Towers, but never made it home.

However, Dad’s never really far away, as much of Oskar’s life continues to be shaped by his decent father’s shadow, with the memories of their life together continuing to shape Oskar’s life.

Finding a mysterious key, Oskar knows – he just knows – that he has to find what it unlocks, somewhere in the city, and thus uncover his Dad’s last secret.

Dad also pops up regularly throughout the film, courtesy of flashbacks,

further reinforcing the family life and father-son relationship that drives Oskar forward in his mysterious quest.

And so, with this mystery key to inspire him, Oskar’s afoot in the big city, off to explore and try and work out what the key unlocks, and where to find such a place.

Whatever about the dangers of a nine-yearold boy wandering New York’s boroughs by himself, Oskar finds that, although the puzzle of finding where Dad’s key belongs could, perhaps, be beyond him, his journey to find its resting place will bring him to lots of other people who have their own 9/11 stories …

Straight off the bat, I should say that Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close is certainly not “the” definitive 9/11 film – no doubt it’ll be decades, if at all, before such a film comes to pass – but, in a

somewhat manipulative way, it’s a striking film nonetheless.

Considering that the film’s puppetmaster – or director, Stephen Daldry – has orchestrated a terrific performance from newcomer, young Thomas Horn (with Hanks and Bullock exercising their acting chops a little, too, and with decent turns from the likes of the legendary Max von Sydow, and John Goodman, among others), it’s hard not to feel too bad about having heart strings, err, strung, and being manipulated into caring for Oskar, and the assorted characters he meets.

Despite the very bookish-feeling that underpins it all – and without making any pun or wordplay at all – Horn’s towering performance, and the interesting, if slightly calculated, direction of the film raises it above the bog-standard movies also out this week.

16 February 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 25

NEW MEDIA Bytesandpieces Challenging a Twitter precedent

Minister for Communications, Energy & Natural Resources, Pat Rabbitte, is faced with the difficulty in funding RTE as the State’s public service broadcaster, while, at the same time, many citizens now access national and international programming online, rather than watch television

Problem of imposing a broadcast charge SHANE DILLON

TODAY, more than one state broadcaster around the world is wondering what the future holds for their national resource.

Here, Minister for Communications, Energy & Natural Resources, Pat Rabbitte, faces some cold facts, regarding the fractures running underneath RTE, and the state broadcaster’s finances, resources and remit.

The population is growing – now up to 4.8 million, as per the latest census – yet RTE continues to face people switching off their television sets and increasingly meeting their entertainment needs through their laptops, smartphones and games consoles instead.

I n c r e a s i n g l y, t h i s means that – for example – people may watch RTE online, even if “online” means sitting on the Luas from Dundrum or Tallaght, via an app on their phone.

Meanwhile, many other

citizens are also tuning in online, or on the move, to a wide range of international broadcasters, such as the BBC, C4, Sky et al, ignoring RTE altogether.

Traditional TV viewing now accounts for an ever-decreasing share of people’s personal time – and decreasing audiences also means further decreasing finances, once advertisers start pulling back from shows, or demanding revised rates.

Finances Minister Rabbitte has to consider the state of RTE’s finances, its public duties as the state broadcaster, and issues of both how to engage with the entire population in a fair and transparent manner – as well as what stick to wave for those with no intention of propping up what is, for many, an irrelevant matter that they feel no connection to.

As such, the Government is still mulling over a new broadcast charge, which, as many read-

ers may know, is being mooted as a possible replacement for the television licence, as a catchall new system to target everyone, and a means to ensure compliance from everyone to support public service broadcasting in the country.

It’s certainly an interesting proposition, on the face of it, as everincreasing numbers have clearly abandoned watching many RTE programmes on an actual television, only to watch these shows online, or via an app, instead.

However, while this issue is still far from the fore of the public consciousness, a number of thorny issues immediately spring to mind – including, for starters, the issue of charging citizens for whatever content they access online.

After all, whatever about people watching RTE online, if an Irish citizen (or resident, say) watches BBC programming online, or America’s

NBC, or China’s CCTV, or Qatar’s Al-Jazeera, or even a multitude of publicly-available content on YouTube – how, then, can the Irish State charge citizens to access internationally-available content that does not originate in the State itself?

When such online programming does not contribute one cent to the Irish purse, it must be asked how Minister Rabbitte, and the Government, expects to charge for such access.

Access This is especially relevant to ask, considering that such individually-selected content is not otherwise available within, or provided by, the Irish State – yet a broadcast charge would, in effect, constitute a tax, by another name, for internet access.

This raises further, interesting points about civil liberties, which I’ll leave for another day, but I cannot help but wonder

if such points are being duly considered.

In addition, I wonder how these international organisations (ranging from the aforementioned BBC to Al-Jazeera et al) would feel about the Irish Government, in effect, making money off their online broadcasts via a broadcast charge.

We can all agree that the State must charge for public service television, and that the Minister has to take steps to streamline revenues in line with the rapidly-changing viewer model, and the continuing decline and fragmentation of audience share in Ireland today.

However, the issue of what, exactly, a possible broadcast charge would constitute, as well as the issue of how to implement it – and then to police it, particularly regarding concerns over, in effect, creating a de-facto tax on internet access – could well be a sleeping dog with quite a bark for this Rabbitte, if awoken ...

MANY readers know how Twitter is being used as an alternative means of communication around the world, with interesting questions emerging about Twitter’s use in the future, by both citizens and authorities alike.

In Britain, Doncaster man Paul Chambers’ legal case continues following his conviction for a January, 2010 Tweet, where he Tweeted to friends and followers that Robin Hood airport (which was closed by heavy snowfall, thus preventing him from travelling to Northern Ireland to see his girlfriend) had a week to reopen, “otherwise I’m blowing the airport sky high!”

However, authorities were not amused, and he was subsequently charged and convicted of causing a menace under the Communications Act 2003, in what is believed to be Britains’ first criminal conviction for the content of a Tweet.

At the time of writing, Chambers’ case was due to go before Britain’s High Court to appeal against his conviction under a number of freedom of expression, and civil liberty grounds, with Chambers having already been given a £1,000 fine and losing his job. It’ll be interesting to see how Chambers’ case concludes.

Ah, for the good old, pre-Twitter days, when one could mutter unlikely threats without a legal precedent being set!

GAZETTE

26 BLANCH GAZETTE 16 February 2012

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GazetteSPORT

DUBLIN ALL-STARS: All the winners from the Dublin Sports Awards: Pages 28-29

TELEVISION: US EXPERIENCE INFORMS INSIGHTFUL PROGRAMME ON NEW YORK SIDE

Setanta to air GAA diaspora documentary sport@gazettegroup.com

THE player drain caused by the recession has been one of the bleaker stories for the GAA in the past few years, with clubs losing stalwarts to Australia, Canada and the US, thinning their ranks.

On the flip side, that drain has been acting as a link to the homeland for many Irish abroad.

It is a connection which Ballinteer man, Cillian O’Chonchur, delicately

helps portray in the documentary, An Exile’s Home in the Bronx, which debuts this week on Setanta.

It follows the fortunes of the 2011 New York side and their struggles to prepare for a Connacht senior football championship date with Roscommon, hoping for a maiden win.

The result did not materialise but, along the journey, O’Chonchur and directors Niall and Steven McCann, amassed over

80 hours of footage from within the camp, with heartfelt, personal interviews with the players.

O’Chonchur, a sports journalist, came up with the original premise whilst on a Fulbright scholarship in New York, and says the story told became very much that of the players and their situations.

“The New York team, itself, would not have any major stars in it. Dan Doona played minor and U-21 for Kerry, and a few

The New York team prepare for their match against Roscommon in the Exiles documentary

of them did similar but didn’t pursue it. One of them sums it up: ‘If football was their main goal, they’d be back in Ireland’,” he told GazetteSport.

“Although it’s based around the game with Roscommon, it hopefully comes across as not a straight, sports documentary but as one which sees these guys having to leave

Ireland for New York while at the same time trying to cling on to their only bit of Irishness.”

O’Conchur – whose brother Padraic lines out for Ballinteer St John’s senior footballers – had initially looked at making the documentary in 2010, centring on the American side’s tussle with Galway.

He and another Irish

masters’ student at New York University initially put together a piece for a college television project, building a rapport with the players and team management and approached Setanta with a view to broadcasting it.

They backed it and the Broadcasting Authority of Ireland came through with funding for the

project in March of 2011.

“I came back to Ireland in May [2010] and started writing up a treatment and then found out last March we got the funding so, from then until two weeks ago, it was pretty much all I eat, dreamed and slept. There’s no better way to learn something than doing everything yourself.”

28 BLANCH GAZETTE 16 February 2012

GazetteSport Sport

Insaka FC’s James Igwilo and coach Uby Ufoh

Sports Awards

Team of the Year - Castleknock’s celebrations begin. Pictures: Geraldine Woods

Every one’s a winner HE third annual Dublin Sports Awards took place recently at the Clarion Hotel Liffey Valley and once again proved to be a true celebration of the best of Dublin’s sporting communities.

The gala night saw Olympic athlete Deirdre Ryan and Somerton club Castleknock GAA rewarded for their achievements in 2011 with the Sports Person and Sports Team of the Year prizes.

The event will form part of a programme to air on Setanta Sports in the coming weeks, and we will keep you posted as to air dates and times as soon as we have them.

Cricketer George Dockrell and Sarah Sarsfield

T

Fingallians’ Paddy Kelly

Wigan star Conor

for the junior hurlers

Sammon’s father, Hilary

Lucan Sarsfields’ camogie mentors, Thomas Dowling, Mary Rigney and Joe Whyte Swords Celtic’s Vincent McGrath

Camillus and Maura Muldowney representing golfer Sheena McElroy

Deirdre Ryan’s father, PJ

Motor star Gary Thompson talks to Paul Dempsey

16 February 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 29

in association with

FastSport CMH Ballon’s Tomas Ilves and captain Majuydas

Mountview’s Cian McGrath

Hannah Tyrrell

Canoe stars Neil Fleming and Peter Egan

’Rock image wins world recognition AN ICONIC image from the match between Old Belvedere and Blackrock College in the Ulster Bank All-Ireland League Division 1A match at Anglesea Road was awarded the second-place prize in the Sports Singles’ Category at the 55th annual World Press Photo Contest.

Sportsfile snapper Ray McManus’ picture was chosen from over 100,000 entries worldwide.

McManus said: “It’s a huge privilege for both Sportsfile and myself to be honoured on an international stage. This is the third time that we have been awarded for our work at the contest, and underlines the hard work and dedication of the Sportsfile team.”

Paul Dempsey chats to Mick Lynch of Castleknock GAA

Annalise Murphy’s Brian Murphy

brother, Finn

Bohs back depression awareness charity BOHEMIANS showed their support for the Lean on Me depression awareness last Monday night by wearing the Lean On Me logo on their jerseys in their Setanta Cup match against Portadown.

Bohemians are currently without a long-term shirt sponsor and are using the opportunity to promote the campaign, which is supported by Lundbeck and Aware.

The Professional Footballers’Association of Ireland (PFAI) and the

Dublin footballer Kevin Nolan with Lorna Atkinson, Paul Ryan

Ryan O’Dwyer

Fiona Waters and Hazel Nestor

Leeanne Royle with dad, David, and mum, Tina, with St Brigid’s Kevin Bonner, Alan Daly and Graham Norton

Kim and Mark Maguire

Irish Rugby Union Players’ Association (IRUPA) have also announced their partnership with the depression awareness campaign.

General secretary of the PFAI, Stephen McGuinness, said: “The PFAI have come on board with the Lean On Me campaign to try and encourage our members and the wider public, to open up and talk to someone if they think they might be struggling with symptoms of depression.”

For more information, log on to www.leanonme.net, or contact the Aware loCall helpline at 1800 303 302.

30 BLANCH GAZETTE 16 February 2012

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

RUGBY: ASHBROOK MEN TO FACE GUINNESS IN CUP FINAL

Corduff girls claim the Community Games gold THE girls got all the attention over the weekend when the Dublin Community Games Girls Indoor Soccer finals took place in Corduff Sports Centre last Sunday morning.

The girls’ Under-13 competition was a straight final with the home side, Corduff, facing local rivals Mulhuddart in a thrilling match.

Mulhuddart put up a strong display of football skills but it was Corduff who took control of the game early, scoring two stunning goals.

With a full time score of 2-0, Corduff took the gold medals, with silver going to Mulhuddart.

On the Corduff team were Amy Conlon, Joy Robinson, Rebecca O’Brady, Mary Anca, Jade Page, Kelsey Mooney, Sandra Oiedeji and Leah Nolan.

Mulhuddart will represent Dublin in the Girls Under-15 Indoor Soccer competition at the HSE Community Games Leinster Finals in Carlow on Sunday, March 25.

Coolmine RFC’s Colin Durkan in action against Skerries at Ashbrook last week

Coolmine seconds into final I sport@gazettegroup.com

COOLMINE RFC’s second XV secured a place in the Jim Byrne Cup last week with a decisive win over Skerries at Ashbrook.

Coolmine had a great start to the game scoring a try in the opening minutes with Michael Kilduff crossing the line to take the first score of the game. This spurred Skerries to come back into the game with a series of penalties, and they crossed the line to take the lead 8-5 with half time approaching.

C o o l m i n e p i c ke d up the pace and, when

Skerries had a lineout just outside their own 22, the ball fell to John McCullough who sidestepped his marker to power home through the last line of defence to put Coolmine back in front at the break at 10-8.

Skerries opened the second half with a penalty, but that was their last visit to the scoreboard and Coolmine started to play to their potential and within minutes Fionn Lacey had crossed the line.

Coolmine were pressing on the Skerries line again and McCullough once again was

on hand to offload to Dazz Kenna to score Coolmine’s third of the evening just right of the posts.

However, Coolmine were not finished and when Colin Durkin collected the ball just inside his own half he ran a diagonal line through the onrushing defence, beating the whole team to score what was the try of the match under the posts.

The conversion was successful to leave the final score at Coolmine 31 – 11 Skerries, and with the Ashbrook side facing a final tie against Guinness, who defeated

Malahide in their semifinal encounter.

Meanwhile, Coolmine’s Under-13s had their last Leinster league game on Sunday against Bective at Asbrook last weekend.

Having already won the league, the game was predicted to be a walk in the park, but nerves got the better of Coolmine in the first 20 minutes.

Bective crossed the line almost from the kick-off, scoring what was only the fifth try Coolmine have conceded in the league this season.

It took Coolmine another 20 minutes to

get back into the game, and at half time the score was 7-5 to Bective.

The second half was played mostly in Bective’s half, with Coolmine scoring three well-worked tries over the course of the half to leave the final score 22-7 to the home side.

Coolmine’s victory away to closest rivals Greystones last week secured the title.

T he club wish to acknowledge the Under13s great achievement which is testament to the dedication from all the coaching staff, players and parents over the last few years.

Coolmine Lodge look for possible new opponents COOLMINE Lodge FC are looking for teams in the local area to play friendly games against in the coming weeks and months.

The side, who play in the Blanchardstown 5s league in Coolmine RFC each week, are to play a friendly this weekend at Morton Stadium in Santry and all support is welcome.

If you are interested in arranging a match against the side, contact Garrett Redmond on garrett@coolminetc.ie.

Blanch blast ahead: Local club progress in cup tie FC BLANCH continued their winning streak with a gutsy performance against Blessington in the Regency Cup last week

that saw them progress in the competition with a 4-3 win on penalties after the sides could not be separated after extra time.

Blanch equalised through creative midfielder Blaine Brogan in the 89th minute to keep them in the cup, and after extratime, the score remained 3-3. Blanch keeper John Hynes pulled off a fine save and centre-half Eric Duffy converted to give FC Blanch a well-deserved win

16 February 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 31

in association with

HURLING: SAINTS TO FACE NAOMH FIONNBARRA .

CLUB NOTICEBOARD ST BRIGID’S VOLUNTEERS are needed for work on our new gym.

Adult medal presentation night is this Saturday night. There will be a

Membership for 2012 is now due

sit-down meal, entertainment and

and should be paid online or by using

a raffle. Tickets are €20 and can be

the traditional forms ASAP.

bought from team mentors.

U-21 hurlers had a great championship win over Thomas Davis. Final details TBC. The U-13 A and B, U-14A and U-15s

New times for juvenile handball are now on the website.

The club lotto is in Myo’s this Friday, with the jackpot still €15,000.

all had good league wins. The Inter

New players are always welcome,

1 and Inter 2 footballers both drew

please contact our club coach, Paul

their opening cup games.

on 0879154748, or email info@stbrig-

Well done to our Dublin ladies on their win over Meath.

idsgaa.com.

Finally, a special thanks to Drum-

Well done also to Tomas Leen,

lane GAA club in Cavan who hosted

Ciaran Flanagan and Donal Timoney,

our Inter footballers over the week-

who represented the Dublin hand-

end. A great weekend was had by

ballers over the weekend.

all.

ST PEREGRINE’S WELL done to all men’s adult football teams at the weekend; all four teams recorded good wins.

St Brigid’s claimed their place in the Under-21 B final with victory over Thomas Davis. Picture: Chris Lynam/stbrigids.com

Brigid’s pull through to claim final berth U-21B HURLING S/FINAL St Brigid’s Thomas Davis

3-15 5-6

I sport@gazettegroup.com

ST BRIGID’S dug deep to overcome Thomas Davis at Russell Park last Saturday to reach the final of the U-21 B hurling championship.

The first half was very much a ding-dong affair with the lead changing hands on several occasions, ending 3-9 to 4-2.

Jamie Winters opened his account with a superb effort off his left but Thomas Davis responded instantly with a goal. Mark Ryan soon responded with a super strike for goal but Davis soon responded with a goal of their own.

A scoring blitz just before half time left Brigid’s in control at the break.

Kieran O’Sullivan and Daire Plunkett scored goals. The former’s was

exper tly placed into the bottom right corner while Plunkett’s was a nicely slotted finish to the left.

And the hosts started the second half well in control but missed several gilt-edged chances to extend their lead.

D av i s p o u n c e d o n these missed chances to score 1-2 to lead with less than 20 minutes left on the clock. But the senior players stood up to be counted as Joey O’Callaghan began to catch a serious amount of ball around the middle. O’Sullivan soon had the game level with a pointed free.

C o n o r Wo o d g a t e became a rock at centre back and drove the side forward and scored a brilliant point to push Brigid’s ahead. Further scores from Dara Doyle and O’Sullivan sealed the game as stout defending by Cathal Doyle and Eoin O’Brien kept Davis at bay. They

now look forward to a final clash against Naomh Fionnbarra next Saturday.

Fingal flyers Elsewhere, Castleknock man Conor Corcoran and Brigid’s Mick Cussen played his part when Fingal’s hurlers picked up their first piece of silverware, after goals in either half from John Matthew S h e r i d a n s aw t h e m stride to a confident and well-deserved victory in Sunday’s Kehoe Shield final at Lawless Park.

Armagh did their best to stay in touch through the dead-ball expertise of Declan Coulter, but, with Graham Dillon always a threat, Fingal had a 2-7 to 0-5 halftime lead.

In the closing stages, Fingallians’ man Peter Daly scored his team’s four th goal. Coulter scored a late penalty for Armagh, but it was

merely a consolation.

Sheridan amassed a brilliant return of 2-8 but was incredibly outscored by Coulter who ended with 1-13 with ten frees, a 65 and a sideline to go with that penalty to take them clear of the travelling side.

T he side bounced back from an opening day defeat at the hands of an impressive DCU side to pick off a couple of wins and the silverware, a decent start under the management of St Brigid’s man Willie Bourke.

Plunkett’s news P l u n ke t t ’s , m e a n while, will be cheering on local favourites Bernard and Alan Brogan as both were included in the Leinster panel for the Railway Cup semifinal against Munster on Sunday in Parnell Park at 2pm.

They are among a group of ten in the 25-man squad.

without it being paid.

Any member not buying lotto tickets visit CNP.ie and support your

Best of luck to Lorraine Kitt and

club, for only €2 a week and is also

Garreth Walsh in their recovery

available to play on-line using the

from injury.

link on the club website.

Club fundraising draw is now up

Quiz night this Thursday in the club

and running and all members should

for the Mary Fleming School of Irish

now have their tickets. Tickets to be

Dancing; €20 for a team of four, and

returned to club by March 21.

there will also be a raffle.

Lotto was not won; numbers drawn

Senior ladies and camogie section

were 15, 21, 22 and 25. Next week’s

are having a quiz night on February

jackpot is €4,600.

23 in the club. Table of four costs €40

Membership for the year is now

and raffle on the night. The nursery

due. Please make sure membership

is being relaunched, please see club-

is paid, as you cannot take the field

house for details.

ERIN GO BRAGH WELL done to our junior footballers

€4,000. Draw to be held in The Pad-

who beat Ballymun Kickhams in the

docks.

cup last Sunday.

We would encourage all members

Thanks to all kids and parents of

to support our weekly lotto. Tickets

our nursery and U-8s who travelled

are €2 or three for €5. This is a key

to the annual Gormanston indoor

fundraiser for this club. There are

tournament.

tickets behind the bar in the Pad-

Our U-12s (kids born in 1999) are looking for new players for both football and hurling. Contact George at 087 328 7022 for more information.

docks or contact John Kinsella on 086 184 054.

Annual membership is now over due. Please note all members fees

There was no winner of last week’s

go directly to insurance, the day-to-

lotto draw. Numbers drawn were 4,

day running of the club. and to the

6 ,16 and 22. Next week’s jackpot is

long term development of the club.

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.

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ALL OF YOUR BLANCH SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

BRILLIANT BRIGIDS: Saints defy

Thomas Davis to earn U-21 semi place P31

FEBRUARY 16, 2012

YEAR IN REVIEW: Dublin celebrates its sporting heroes P28-29

GazetteSPORT

Rebecca McDowell, back row, fourth from left, was part of the Westmanstown Gaels side which won their first ever Feile title last Spring in Pairc ui Murchu

McDonnell first to don Dubs’ jersey Westmanstown will enjoy a landmark date on Sunday when one of their members lines out for the Jackies blanchardstownsport@gazettegroup.com

WESTMANSTOWN Gaels will celebrate a landmark moment this weekend when club member Rebecca McDonnell has been included in the Dublin ladies’ footballers U-16 panel for their challenge match against Cork.

She becomes the first member from the club to be included in any county panel since the club was formed back in 2005, playing her part in the curtain-raiser for the senior ladies’ game against the Rebelettes in Pairc ui Murchu.

And club PRO, Stephen Byrne, told GazetteSport it was a significant moment in the club’s fledgling history.

“This probably isn’t a big deal for any other club in Dublin but I would imagine most clubs, at one point or another, had someone represent them but it just so happens Rebecca is the first.

“When you’re the first of anything, it is worth making a fuss about the occasion,” he said.

It is a part of Westmanstown’s ongoing growth that has seen the club grow from five members in 2005 up to 300 last year.

McDonnell joined the club in 2006 and has been under the wing of one of the club’s founding members for the majority of that time, a run which bore incredible fruit last season.

“Grace O’Boyle has been the mentor to Rebecca’s team and is one of the founding members of the club. She plays with the senior club, herself originally from Mayo, and managed the U-14 side, which Rebecca was part of last year.”

Unbeaten “That team basically went unbeaten bar one final – they won their Feile division against Templeogue Synge Street, won their division and got to the championship final but lost to Scoil ui Chonail. That was their only defeat of 2011.”

During that run, McDonnell scored a vital

point in extra time of the Feile success after normal time ended level at 1-0 to 0-3.

And Byrne is hopeful that McDonnell will be the first of a new train of youngsters answering the county’s call in the years to come.

“The team of 2011, they played together as a team for the first time at U-13. Up until then, they played mixed with the boys. Given they haven’t played together that long as a team, we feel they are doing really well.

“We’ve had a few kids who have presented for the development squads but she is the first to be chosen for an actual team next Sunday.

“The first thing that is fairly remarkable about Rebecca is she actually will qualify to play for the panel again next year. She’s a year ahead.

“There are also two or three other girls on that team who are in the Dublin development squads, so we’re quietly confident one or two of them will get onto a Dublin U-14 panel as well.”