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‘The Taj Mahal is but one of many jewels in India’s crown’ TRAVEL: P22 JUNE 14, 2012

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BLANCHARDSTOWN • BLAKESTOWN • HARTSTOWN • COOLMINE • TYRRELSTOWN • DUNBOYNE • CORDUFF • MULHUDDART • ONGAR

INSIDE: Wealth of talent and skill on display in Phibblestown P8-9

Gridiron: West Dublin Rhinos reach IAFL play-offs Page 32

Football: St Brigid’s progress in SFC encounter Page 31

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

RECOVERY UNIT: Connolly Hospital launches new garden: See Pages 2-3

Strikes on taxi drivers prompt warning I SUZANNE BYRNE

TAXI drivers in Blanchardstown have reported a spate of vicious attacks on cabbies in the area.

Thousands of drivers across the city were placed on high alert after receiving a text message earlier this month, warning them of the assaults in the Ongar Road/Stonebridge Road area.

The message, which was cir-

culated by Tiomanai Taxi na h-Eireann, a voluntary group set up in 2010 representing around 1,600 drivers, said there had been four incidents of taxi drivers being attacked and the incidents involved the drivers being slashed and robbed.

A Garda spokesman confirmed a 28-year-old man had been arrested on June 4 in connection with an incident.

Full Story on Page 3

Furry friend: Minister meets Corporal Cu at Championship MINISTER for Transport, Tourism

and Sport, Leo Varadkar, had his hands full when he met with Corporal Cu at the Irish Wolfhound Championship Show held by the Irish Wolfhound Club in Farmleigh recently. Corporal Cu has been

mascot to the Irish Army and is now retiring at the age of seven. He will now continue as Mascot attached to the 2nd Field Artillery Regiment, Irish Army at McKee Barracks. Also pictured is Eddie Bourke, show manager.

2 BLANCH GAZETTE 14 June 2012

HERITAGE Memorial to James Connolly at new garden

Paul Bell; Mick Lawlor; Jack O’Connor, president, SIPTU; Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton; Philip Hughes and Richard Conroy, ITB Horticulture students; Ciarnad Ryan, lecturer, ITB (front) and Mary Walshe, Connolly Hospital manager

Bust honours a national hero

EAN nos singer Jerry O’Reilly, from Palmerstown, provided a perfect accompaniment to the official opening of the newly renovated courtyard garden at Connolly Hospital in Blanchardstown recently, when he sang, Where o where is our James Connolly?

His accomplished rendition was welcomed by all present, including the Minister for Social Protection,

S

Joan Burton, who praised the striking memorial in the restful garden, which was created by first year BSc Horticultural Students from the Institute of Technology, Blanchardstown (ITB).

The unveiling added to the recent headlines created by the hospital, which also recently announced its bid to be the National Children’s Hospital.

Sean nos singer Jerry O’Reilly examines the bust

The Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton

The handsomely sculpted bust of James Connolly

14 June 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 3

ALERT Assaults in the Ongar Rd/Stonebridge Rd area

Taxi drivers worried over brutal attacks I SUZANNE BYRNE

TAXI drivers in Blanchardstow n have repor ted a spate of vicious attacks on cabbies in the area.

Thousands of drivers across the city were placed on high alert after receiving a text message earlier this month, warning them of the assaults in the Ongar Road/Stonebridge Road area.

The message, which was circulated by Tiomanai Taxi na h-Eireann, a voluntary group set up in 2010 representing around 1,600 drivers, stated: “To all members, we have been

informed of four incidents of drivers being attacked in the last three weeks at the junction of Ongar Road and Stonebridge Road at the pedestrian lights.

“The incidents have involved drivers being slashed and robbed and we would ask all drivers to take care when operating in this area. Thank you TTnH.” Chairman of the organisation, David McGuinness, told the Gazette that two of his members had informed them of attacks over the past three to four weeks.

And a fur ther two non-members also told

T TnH they had been attacked.

A G a r d a s p o ke s man confirmed to the Gazette that a 28-yearold man had been arrested on June 4 in connection with an incident reported on the Ongar Road on May 27.

The man was detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act and was released without charge.

A file on the case has been sent to the DPP. Dublin West Fianna Fail Councillor - also called David McGuinness - said: “No industry should face the prospect of having their face

Fianna Fail Councillor David McGuinness says the situation is unacceptable

or body slashed in the course of their duties.

“These incidents are very serious and have seen an unprecedented response from taxi driver representatives in warning their colleagues of the dangers

associated with a section of a road in Dublin 15.

“If an answer to these incidents rests in the Hartstown, Ongar or Clonsilla communities it is imperative that An Garda Siochana is

informed immediately and taxi drivers can continue their work in safety. This situation is simply unacceptable and public support is necessary to have this situation dealt with,” he added.

LIVERPOOL

Evening with a legend CA L L I N G a l l R e d s fans. On Friday, July 20, the Dublin 15 Liverpool Supporters Club will be hosting an evening with Ireland and Liverpool legend Ronnie Whelan in Paidi Ogs in Mulhuddart Village.

All proceeds will go toward the running of the club and to help send members to watch Anfield home games as cheaply as possible.

After setting up the club just over three years ago, membership has swollen, with membership already closed for the 2012/2013 season.

The price of membership to the club is €50 for the first year and €25 after that with a €100 deal for a family of four.

Meetings are held once a month at Paidi Ogs and more information can be found at tommcdaid@eircom. net

4 BLANCH GAZETTE 14 June 2012

14 June 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 5

PEOPLE Eimear Felle to take part in Tiburon Mile in California

Fingal extends festival

Local looks forward to swim challenge I LAURA WEBB lwebb@gazettegroup.com

A BLANCHARDS TOWN native is gearing herself up for a gruelling swim when she takes on San Francisco Bay in aid of Special Olympic’s Ireland.

Eimear Felle is looking for ward to the challenging swim, the Tiburon Mile, this September and is already training for the event.

The competitive swim is one nautical mile in open water.

The 27-year-old has been busy fundraising and is hoping to raise over €3,000. Bake sales and bag packing have already helped her to raise approximately €1,800 and an upcoming table quiz on June 29 in Roselawn Inn

is hoped to bring that number up further.

“People have been so generous and the thing about the Special Olympics is that you don’t actually realise how many families are touched by it until you do these kind of things.

It is a really good organisation, you get so much back from it,” Eimear said.

Excited about the upcoming trip, she says she can’t wait, but often wonders to herself what she is doing and soon remembers it’s for a good cause.

The keen swimmer found out about the event through an email from the Special Olympics.

“Myself, my mother and my brother are involved with the Spe-

c i a l O l y m p i c s . My brother was involved with the Special Olympics when it came over here in 2003, then my mother got involved and I followed suit. We help out with a group called the Blanch Blitzers Bowling club who are in the Leisure Plex every Thursday evening. We have such a great time.

“As a member you get emails about upcoming events. When I looked at this, I instantly said I am doing this. I am really looking forward to it,” she said.

So far 15 people have been recruited to take part in the swim for Special Olympics, but they are just one group of thousands who will eventually take part in the swim.

“An awful lot of Olym-

pians do it. I might even be swimming along side one of them, but I certainly won’t be competing with them.

“I am trying to train every second or third day because you have to give the body a rest as well. It is the equivalent of 64, 50-metre lengths.

I just keep reminding myself it is for charity and it’s a good cause.

“I have been swimming since I was two. I love the water, I am like a fish. My friends always laugh, every time we go away the first thing I ask is, is there a pool or one nearby because then I am happy,” she joked.

The table quiz in aid of Special Olympics Ireland takes place on Friday, June 29 at 8pm, upstairs in Roselawn Inn.

ARTS

Swimmers have to cover one nautical mile in the Tiburon Mile, San Francisco

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SPREACHA, Fingal’s annual children’s arts festival at Draiocht, is set to spread its annual weeklong festivities right throughout the year.

T h i s y e a r ’s e ve n t kicked off in March with Under a Different Light, a magical, danceperformance from the Italian La Baracca Testoni Ragazzi Theatre.

Now, another Italian dance troupe, TPO, is getting ready to perform with its award-winning digital technology and multimedia set, intriguingly titled Kindur – The Adventurous Life of Icelandic Sheep.

The show will run on Sunday June 17 from 2pm to 4m and on Monday June 18 from 10am to 12 noon.

Tickets can be booked through Draiocht box office on 01-8852622 or online at Draiocht.ie All tickets are €5

6 BLANCH GAZETTE 14 June 2012

CHILDCARE

Over €9k for two nurseries news@gazettegroup.com

www.

FUNDING of €9,500 has been announced for two pre-schools in the Fingal area and both were welcomed by the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport, Leo Varadkar, this week.

A grant of €5,492 has been awarded to Happy Puddleducks Childcare in Swords while a further grant of €4,000 has been approved for the Home-Start Creche in Clonsilla. The grant is capital funding, which can be spent on upgrading existing facilities and a total of 290 childcare facilities nationwide have received funding under this scheme.

According to Minister Varadkar: “This funding is another example of how the limited resources available in these difficult times can be put to good use, in a way that brings benefits to our families.”

MEETING Bank guarantee reason for opposition

Proposal to rename road after Brian Lenihan fails I SUZANNE BYRNE

A PROPOSAL to rename the new Porterstown Road after the late minister, Brian Lenihan, has failed to win sufficient support to pass at a meeting of the Mulhuddart / Castleknock area committee of Fingal County Council.

Fianna Fail councillor Mags Murray tabled the motion at a meeting of the council on June 7.

Instead the proposal will now be submitted to the naming and numbering committee in Cllr Murray’s name.

Socialist Party councillor Ruth Coppinger said she would not be comfortable about supporting the motion if it was proposed on behalf of the committee as a whole “because of the

bank guarantee and the mess it left this country in”.

Party colleague Matthew Waine also said he could not endorse the council move in light of controversial decisions made by the last government However, Cllr Coppinger said that Cllr Murray was free to make the recommendation in her capacity as a resident, as she was entitled to do so.

Tabling the motion, Cllr Murray said funding for the Porterstown Road, which opened just a month ago, had been one of the minister’s last allocations for the area.

“It’s a place that’s close to his home and close to his heart and I just thought it would be a nice way to remember him.”

Fianna Fail councillor Mags Murray tabled the motion proposing that the new Porterstown Road be named after her party colleague, the late minister, Brian Lenihan (inset)

In his submission, Cllr Waine said that while he would have absolute sympathy for all families in the community who suffer premature death

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through difficult health circumstances, “There are issues that this country is still dealing with because of decisions made by the last government and I think it’s a bit premature and sensitive and the wrong road and the wrong message to send out that we’d begin

to name local infrastructure after prominent individuals.”

In reply, Cllr Murray said: “I think people across all parties and none had a huge regard for the man. That was evident at the time very evi passing and since.” of his pa She ssaid Mr Lenihan

had done great work in the area and been the driving force behind the building of schools, courthouses and the upgrade of the hospital.

“I think it’s one nice gesture that we could actually make at this committee and as a resident of Dublin 15 and as an elected representative.”

In her submission, Cllr Coppinger said: “By all means put your proposal about the naming of the road. It’s your right, it’s everybody’s right. But I’d prefer if you didn’t put it on behalf of the entire committee.”

She added: “I wouldn’t endorse what you said at all. There’s a lot of issues about Minister Lenihan and the bank guarantee and the mess it’s left this country in and to pretend that that wouldn’t be contentious in the community... I’m sorry, it would.

So you are perfectly free to put the proposal, but I’d prefer if you didn’t do it on behalf of the committee.”

Speaking afterwards to the Gazette, Cllr Murray said she was “very disappointed” at the strength of opposition from some members.

She added that the people who objected to it had “never provided anything and mostly objected to everything the council said”.

14 June 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 7

FOOD

GARDAI: ROBBERIES AND THEFT ONLY CRIMES NOT TO SEE DECREASE

Local catering business is forced to close

Drug seizures show 36% drop I SUZANNE BYRNE

CRIME figures for almost all categories of crime, apart from robberies and theft, have fallen significantly in the Blanchardstown area this year.

According to latest Garda figures, drug seizures showed a marked drop in the period January to April, from 28 cases last year to 18 for the same period this year.

That’s a drop of 36%, the steepest drop in all the categories of crime recorded.

Local Fine Gael councillor, Kieran Dennison, who is the vice chairman of the policing committee said: “By the end of April there had been 18 drug seizures compared to 28 for the same period last year. However, the huge increase in burglaries

and robberies in the first few months is reflected in the statistics.”

Cases of assault causing harm were also down slightly, with 13 cases recorded in the period in question from 15 last year to 13 this year.

There was a significant drop in crimes involving possession of an offensive weapon, down 10 from 32 to 22, a drop of 31 per cent, while crimes involving the discharge of a firearm fell from eight cases to six.

Public order offences were also down significantly from 143 for the period last year to 110 this year, a drop of 23 %.

Robberies from the person were also down from 35 recorded cases to 28, a decrease of 20%.

However, there has been a noticeable rise in

the number of burglaries and robberies for the first quarter of the year.

Cllr Dennison said: “There were 245 burglaries in the Blanchardstown Division, an increase of 38%. Thefts from vehicles were up 43% to 211, robbery from establishment was up 44% to 13, while thefts from shops rose to 241, an increase of 24%.”

The figures for the Blanchardstown area broadly mirror a trend nationally since the onset of the recession.

L a s t y e a r, a 4 0 % increase in burglaries was recorded in some parts of the country while an 8% rate increase was seen nationally.

The crime rate nationally for burglary in 2011 generally bucked the trend for overall crime patterns.

Come on you boys in green: Lucky pair are off to Euro finals after win TWO LUCKY customers have been given a dream trip to Poland to

join the green army as they cheer on the Irish soccer team who are taking part in the Euro 2012 finals in Poland and Ukraine. Local firm Independent Express Cargo, based in Northwest Business Park, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15, has awarded two lucky customers with tickets, flights and overnight accommodation to see the Ireland versus Spain game in Gdansk, Poland. Pictured are Paddy Baird, Killester Travel, with prize winners Derek Mulligan and Eddie Greer, and Seamus McGowan, managing director, TPN, and Martin Vahey, Independent Express Cargo.

A BLANCHARDS TOWN-BASED catering company has been served with a Closure Order by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI ) for breaches of food legislation.

Walsh Brothers Catering Ltd, trading at unit 4a Rosemount Business Park, run the Bia Bus travelling gourmet food service which provides catering for festivals and other outdoor events across the country.

The order was issued under the EC (Official Control of Foodstuffs) R e g u l a t i o n s , 2 010 , where there is a noncompliance with food legislation.

The Enforcement Orders were issued by environmental health officers in the Health Service Executive.

8 BLANCH GAZETTE 14 June 2012

COMMUNITY Bundles of talent in this extravaganza as

The Dunderry youth club

Opposites Attract from the Ballyragget Foróige

The Castletara Crew

Darragh Lee Paul Maher, the chairperson of Foróige, with Sean Campbell, the chief executive Pictures: James Devon

Talent on tap for Ireland’s youth HE AUDIENCE at the Foróige’s Got Talent Extravaganza in Phibblestown Community Centre were blown away by the incredible wealth of talent and skill on display.

From a crowd pleasing Robbie Wil-

T

liams tribute to a thought-provoking play about being a teenager, the event simply had it all. The judges task was an unenviable one as they attempted to choose the top three.

First place went to Ciara Lenihan and friends for their play False

Truths while Michael Slevin got second place, for his rendition of Sometimes, I Wish I Was an Angel with the third placed prize going to Oisín O’Reilly, a member of the Foróige Attic Youth Café for his version of Let Me Entertain You.

Oisín O’Reilly finished in third place

14 June 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 9

For贸ige proves that these kids are definitely alright

Turn up the Bass from the Crossmolina For贸ige

Derbhla Kenny

The crowd shows their appreciation for the acts on show

10 BLANCH GAZETTE 14 June 2012

R1

OLYMPICS Dublin gets its eager hands on the Olympic torch

Kenny Egan with the torch and his cheerleaders

Paul McGrath holds up traffic and the torch

Niamh Reid Burke with her parents and brother

We didn’t start the fire. Niamh Reid Burke with Alva Nolan Pictures: Fergus McNally and Andreas Poveda

Carrying the flame LYMPIC fever gripped Ireland (and in particular, Dublin) as the official torch relay took place on June 6. Dublin boxer Michael Carruth received the torch from fellow boxer, Olympian and medal winner, Wayne McCullough at the border between Ireland and Northern Ireland.

From there it travelled by bus to the

O

capital where it was formally received by the President, Michael D Higgins.

From here the relay really took off. Carried by the likes of Paul McGrath, Kenny Egan, Jedward, Sonia O’Sullivan, Niamh Reid Burke and many more, it truly was a memorable occasion that culminated in a celebration event in St Stephen’s Green.

Niamh Reid Burke and Kenny Egan

Michael Carruth

14 June 2012 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 14 June 2012

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TV and radio personality, Hector O hEochagain (left) and legendary GAA and sports broadcaster Micheal O Muircheartaigh launch the Calor Community Champion 2012

Searching for heroes THE search is now on to find local champions across Dublin who work tirelessly each and every day to improve the lives of the people around them.

Calor, Ireland’s leading supplier of rural energy solutions, has launched their inaugural Calor Community Champion 2012.

Calor believe it is time that these people were recognised and celebrated, and have set aside a prize fund of €10,000 to do this.

The search for local unsung heroes will be led by TV and radio personality, Hector O hEochagain.

This summer, Hector and the team at Calor are looking for your help to choose the Calor Community Champion 2012.

To enter and nominate your local Dublin hero, all you need to do is “like” the Calor Facebook page, once you become a “fan” you can enter the Community Champion app.

Then, just provide the name of your nominee, contact details and in 250 words why you think they deserve to win.

Dublin SPCA special information day THE Dublin SPCA is encouraging all animal lovers to go along to a special information day of all things pet-like on Saturday, June 16.

The fabulous Miss June Rodgers (panto star) is making a special guest appearance on the day.

She is hoping to help raise the charity’s profile and promote awareness of animal welfare and owner responsibility.

Families will be spoiled for choice of entertainment on the day with a diverse variety of enjoyable activities, demonstrations, food stalls, face painting, body art and bouncy castles.

DIARY There will be doggy style fashion, artwork, pet photography and grooming products for the fussiest pooch and owner.

If you’re interested in going along to the event, then head down to the SPCA Animal Welfare Charity, Mount Venus Road Campus, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16 on Saturday June 16, between 12pm and 4pm Contact Miriam Kerins, PR, Dublin SPCA for more information on 01-4994710 or 0867900894. .

A cornucopia of Irish food on the way TASTE of Dublin 2012 is on from June 14 to17 in Iveagh Gardens in Dublin and it promises to offer a cornucopia of Irish food from some of the bestknown chefs from Ireland and abroad.

Launching the festival this year will be Jamie Oliver who is due to open a restaurant in Dundrum this year.

He said: “Taste of Dublin is a fabulous platform for showcasing the best in Irish produce and cuisine and I can’t wait to kick off the summer in true Irish style at Taste of Dublin this June” Electrolux Ireland is sponsoring Taste of Ireland and visitors will be spoilt for choice with wine tastings and food samplings and workshops galore from over 100 industry experts.

Irish talent includes Rachel Allen, Clodagh McKenna and Neven Maguire.

Tickets are on sale now at www.tasteofdublin.ie or you can call 0818 30 00 30. Prices range from €20 (plus booking fee).

LOCALMATTERS SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS

A D V E R T I S E W I T H T H E G A Z E T T E C A L L 6 0 1 0 24 0

14 June 2012 GAZETTE 13

SAILING A host of nautical activities to enjoy

Get on the water for the weekend SAIL Spree, which takes place on June 23 and 24, was officially launched last week by the Irish Sailing Association (ISA) and TV presenter, Kathryn Thomas in Dun Laoghaire harbour.

It is a new, weekendlong initiative, designed to get people out on the water to enjoy water sports of all kinds.

At the launch, she enjoyed a small boat trip with three young sailors from the Irish National Sailing School.

The weekend’s activities take in all areas around the Dublin coast, from Sutton to Dun Laoghaire, so there is bound to be something nautical happening near you.

It kicks off on Saturday, June 23, at the Sutton Dinghy Club which will run a sponsored sail down Sutton Creek and back to their club headquarters.

A barbecue will also be available to the participants following the event as well as music and prizes.

The Sutton Dinghy club will also run an Access Sailing evening on Tuesday June 26 to follow on from the weekend.

This event is focused on those with disabilities and is intended to open them up to how accessible water sport fun can be for them.

Rush Sailing Club will get involved on Saturday 23 also as it is running On the Water which are taster sessions for the novice in a choice of yachts, dinghies and power boats.

More taster sessions are organised for Malahide Yacht Club which will run a two-day event during the spree weekend and will lay on entertainment in the form of music and games for all.

Malahide Yacht Club’s junior sailing section is very strong and the club also boasts two sailors, David Burrows and Scott Flanigan, who are bound for the London Olympics next month.

On the southside of Dublin, Dun Laoghaire Harbour will be running spree events such as taster sessions with the Irish National Sailing School on Saturday, June 23.

Dun Laoghaire Motor Yacht Club is running a two-day event for the weekend and will open at 11am and close at 8pm to allow people to relax in the bar and take part in their games and activities or trips in a motor boat

Kathryn Thomas fights to keep her balance

which will be free.

The Royal St George Yacht Club will also be providing, “On the Water” taster sessions on both Saturday and Sunday.

The club regularly holds national and international competitions such as Four Star Pizza ISAF Youth World Championships this July.

For Sail Spree they will offer sailing and power boating taster sessions as well as providing onshore activities, food, drink, music and entertainment from their clubhouse overlooking the marina.

Dun Laoghaire Powerboat School will give you the chance to try the excitement of power boating in the safe, calm waters of the harbour on Sunday, June 24.

The National Yacht Club’s Sail Spree event will happen a bit later on the evening of Wednesday, June 27.

Sailing taster sessions will be offered from their clubhouse at Dun Laoghaire harbour and food and drink dispensed later.

To book your place or find out more about Sail Spree events in your area you can check it out online at www.sailspree.ie.

M

I BAIRBRE NI BHRAONAIN

Turning heads: Citroen hit it out of the park with the DS5 TV presenter Kathryn Thomas in Dun Laoghaire harbour

MOTORING PAGE 21

14 GAZETTE 14 June 2012

BUSINESS: ENTERPRISE BOARD’S TOP TIPS WHEN MEETING NEW CONTACTS

Networking can pay off

SOME top tips for networking were issued by the Fingal County Enterprise Board (CEB) to more than 100 business owners and managers gathered at the Kettles Country House Hotel in Swords last week.

The board focused on using networking skills to increase and build company sales.

With opportunities for networking today more than ever before, the Fingal CEB is encouraging all small businesses to seek more opportunities for their businesses, and have issued advice for entrepreneurs on the Golden Rules of Effective Networking.

The board suggests small companies move networking to the top of their list of priorities, and to take time to attend the many events held across the country on a regular basis.

While they are often geared specifically at new start-ups and the small-business owner,

they can provide a great introduction to help new and fledgling businesses to hone their networking skills.

Before attending a business evening, the board recommends researching the people who will be attending – in particular, competitors, customers and suppliers.

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

‘Ask the right questions and focus on the right people’

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

Attendees should prioritise the people that they want to meet, and find the moment to introduce themselves, as well as making sure they can easily communicate what they do, and their key selling points enthusiastically.

While there are certain considerations to take into account when attending a networking event, there are common

mistakes the board recommends attendees to do their best to avoid.

Building a personal relationship is extremely important, and it’s easy to miss opportunities by chatting about social topics.

Remember to ask the right questions and to be prepared to focus on the right people. If someone is clearly wasting time, find an excuse and politely move on.

Effective networking is not about ensuring attendees give equal time to everyone at a business function – it is far more effective to focus on those they feel will be a useful contact, or who will help the attendee or their business.

Following a networking event, always follow-up the valuable contacts that are made, and as quickly as possible after an event.

Send an email or make a call to such new contacts within a couple of days, to keep both businesses on the radar.

PRODUCE You’re growing to love

Highly praise

MICHAEL KELLY has some seasonal advice to get the best of summer growing THERE are some vegetables that you grow yourself and you really wonder whether it’s worth the hassle, particularly if there are good commercial alternatives available.

However, given the fact that most of the tomatoes in our supermarkets are the super-bland, all-yearround Dutch variety, and taste of – well, nothing at all – having a good crop of your own tomatoes is really one of the most rewarding things you can do.

Tomatoes that you grow yourself taste a million times nicer than anything you will buy in the supermarket – period.

This is because the overwhelming majority of commercial tomatoes are grown for superficial uniformity and shelf-life, rather than flavour.

You are more likely to eat your own tomatoes, as you would an apple, rather than slice ’em up and put them in a sandwich.

They are a sweet, sumptuous treat, best eaten warm and freshly picked.

I like being in touch with the seasonality of tomatoes, though it is a bitter-sweet affair given how short the season is –

tomatoes are basically in season for just a quarter of the year, or four short months.

Ours are starting to ripen, now, and they will go on producing hopefully into late October, and then they will be no more, and we will shed a tear.

We try to extend their season a little by getting the first seeds going on a warming mat in early spring at one end, and by preserving the produce at the other end (by storing, bottling, freezing etc).

If you want to really embrace seasonal food consumption, you could do worse than starting with the tomato.

Grow as many plants as your space will allow – nurture them, harvest, eat and store.

Enjoy them fresh, from July until October, and then in the winter enjoy your own “processed” tomatoes too, in whatever form you have converted them in to – then give yourself a break from them.

They are not in season, so don’t be tempted to buy them.

When you have sampled the delectable taste of your own tomatoes, I promise you that you won’t find this hard.

Speaking of tomatoes, here’s a real date for the diary.

On Sunday, September 2, Fingal Gardener’s Group and GIY Naul are holding an event – Totally Terrific Tomatoes – celebrating all things tomato.

It takes place at Seamus Ennis Centre, Naul, Co Dublin from 12 noon until 5pm.

For further information, see www.nickykylegardening.com.

Things to do this month To do: Any ground that has finished cropping must be quickly cleared away to take more vegetables. Use your produce – eat it, freeze it, process it, exchange it, give it away.

Continue to water and feed plants, and practise good weed control. Earth up brassicas such as Brussels sprouts – these plants will grow tall and require a good deal of support.

Net plants to keep butterflies and the cabbage moth away.

Cut dow n legume plants that have finished cropping – leave the roots in the soil, as they fix nitrogen in the soil. Give pumpkins plenty of water and apply a high-potash liquid feed.

Sow: Continue successional sowings and use quick maturing varieties for autumn use – Swiss chard, lettuce, rocket, salad onions, radish, turnips, peas, French Beans (dwarf), carrots.

Sow for winter use – spring cabbage, Hungry Gap kale, parsley, perpetual spinach, chicory and coriander.

Plant strawberries now for a good crop next June.

Propagate rosemary, sage and mint from cuttings now.

Har vest: July and August are peak months for produce – enjoy it!

When there are hundreds when you could so easily

First crops of French and runner beans, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, courgette and aubergine, marrows, beetroot, globe artichokes.

Continue to harvest new potatoes, calabrese, cauliflower, cabbage, spinach, carrots, turnips, shallots, garlic, radish, spring onions, salad crops, strawberries, raspberries, tayberries, currents (black, red and white), gooseberries, loganberries, peas, broad beans.

Ask yourself – do you really need to go to the supermarket?!

Tip of the month Make use of your grass cuttings. Here’s how to make great compost, using two great wastecreators in the home and garden – newspapers and grass cuttings.

Build an open heap of alternating 10-inch layers of crumpled newspaper and grass cuttings.

Allow to get quite tall – four to fix feet – and then leave to rot down for a year.

Michael Kelly is a freelance

journalist, author and founder of GIY Ireland

14 June 2012 GAZETTE 15

these top tips for getting some gardening glory

the humble tomato Recipe of the Month: Green Tomato Chutney FAR from being a waste, the tomatoes that don’t ripen can be one of the most important assets you will get from your veg patch this year.

The beauty of this recipe is its exclusivity – because you can’t buy the primary ingredient (green tomatoes) in the shops, it can really only be made by a GIYer.

of varieties of tomatoes, why settle for the bland, uniform variety in supermarkets grow your own delicious tomatoes, full of flavour?

Ingredients: • 3kg green tomatoes • Six large onions (about 1kg) • Three or four large green peppers • 700g brown sugar • 1.2 litres of vinegar • Spices: Three tbs mustard seed; one tbs coriander seed; one-half teaspoon celery seed; one teaspoon turmeric

Instructions Chop the onions and slice the tomatoes finely. Layer them in a very large bowl – ie, start with onions, then tomatoes, then onions etc, seasoning each layer with plenty of salt and a little pepper as you go.

Leave it to stand for a day or so, then drain off the liquid and transfer the veg to a large stock pot.

Add the rest of the ingredients (sugar, vinegar, spices), bring the whole thing to a boil, and let it simmer on a low heat for two or three hours.

Put it back in to the bowl and let it sit for another day.

Put it back in the stock pot and cook it for another half hour so that

the liquid reduces down further – you want just enough liquid to cover the vegetables when they are transferred in to pots.

Sterilise some jam jars and ladle the chutney in to them. Don’t be tempted to eat any for about a month – it’s like a fine wine, and will get better with age.

FESTIVAL

A day for Brazilian culture WITH an estimated 30,000 Brazilians in Ireland, and more coming, now is a fitting time to welcome Dublin’s first Brazil Day. The first official Brazil Day Dublin will take place on Sunday, June 17 in Dtwo Bar, garden and club on Harcourt Street, beginning at 3pm, and running til late.

It is a celebration of all things Brazilian, starting with a performance from a traditional capoeira group, followed up by a Brazilian band, Pagode Fora De Casa.

There will also be traditional Samba Brazilian dancers, DJs, and traditional Brazilian BBQ and food, all adding to the authenticity of the day.

T he night will be capped off by the famous Carlao and Fabiano Sertaneja band, which will just be returning from Paris after supporting Michel Telo.

16 GAZETTE 14 June 2012

GazetteSTYLE STYLE Great gifts for your dad Edited by Laura Webb

CHECK ON YOUR BLOOD PRESSURE BLOOD pressure is essential for us all to survive – without it, our blood vessels would collapse.

Hypertension, on the other hand, refers to blood pressure above a defined safe limit.

This condition forces the heart to work harder, and it is the single most important risk factor for coronary heart disease and stroke. Because hypertension generally has no symptoms, it is essential that you attend your doctor or local pharmacy to get your blood pressure checked regularly.

With thanks to the staff at Lucan Village Pharmacy

AVE the date, ever yone – it’s Father’s Day this Sunday, June 17, and Gazette Style is making sure dads across Dublin get the gifts they have longed for.

From simple gifts to unique one-offs, this year is going to be a cracker for giving. We all know that mothers love, love, love to get pampered, but who says fathers don’t want that, too?

Dunboyne Castle Hotel has answered fathers’ calls, and are offering a Pamper Papa treat from their spa, Seoid.

More and more men are looking for good skincare and want to look after themselves.

The Seoid spa has two great offers available for

S

the week of Father’s Day. Dad’s Treat includes a 45-minute Voya Facial to detoxify the skin and brighten a dull, lifeless complexion; a 15-minute head and shoulder massage to relieve any tension in the neck and shoulders, and a 20-minute Dry Floatation (which is the equivalent of three hour’s sleep), all for €75.

The second special for Father’s Day – Father’s Me Time – includes a back, neck and shoulder massage, and a 20-minute Dry Floatation, for only €45. For further details on these offers, see www. dunboynecastlehotel. com.

Get dad started on a great skin care routine, and a good place to start is with Vichy’s Homme

Hydra Mag C+ (50ml for €18.50), which is a two-in-one hydrating care product that fights the signs of fatigue and reduces under-eye bags and dark circles.

This is also complemented with Vichy Homme Soap-Free Shaving Foam, which has a neutral PH, and glycerine for hydration.

It is formulated to protect from tightness, dryness and irritations, and is suitable for sensitive skin.

Meanwhile, we also all know how men are tuning into their fashion senses more than ever before, and are paying more attention to how they look.

We had a quick look at Marks and Spen-

cer’s (M&S) to see what clothes would go down a treat this Father’s Day. See our selection of M&S images to get some inspiration for Father’s Day looks, this year.

Why not go even bigger than usual this year and get dad a membership for their favourite football, GAA or rugby team?

That way you know they will have a great season, no matter the score!

Another great gift for rocking dads – or just to help them relive their youth – is by getting them a ticket to a festival.

Electric Picnic is definitely one for all ages, and is a great family affair.

Whatever you decide to get, make sure you pamper your dad, because they’re worth it, too.

Marks and Spencer have plenty of clothes to get dad looking dapper, such as a Blue Harbour polo shirt (€27), a smart leather belt (€35), four-pack of Collezione socks (€16)

14 June 2012 GAZETTE 17

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: FAMILIES MAY NOT ALWAYS CHOOSE THE BEST ANIMAL FOR THEIR NEEDS

Your pet deserves to have the right owner to love it OST parents at some stage during their child’s early years will be asked the question: “Mum (or dad), can I please have a dog?

I promise I’ll look after him, walk him, feed him and clean up his poo.”

Yeah, right – hands up how many of us have fallen for that one? I have!

Our eldest dog, Sophie, was adopted from a shelter when she was six weeks old.We got her for our youngest child, who was then two.

Sophie is now going on 18 and the child, now an adult, has shown lots of interest over the years by loving, cuddling, nurturing and socialising with the animal, but has she ever once walked her (err,no), fed her ( again, no), and has the thought of picking up a piece of dog poo ever seared my child’s brain stem?

Again, no, never!

If you get a pet for your child, it’s very likely that you – the mum – will end up being the primary carer and, when your child heads off to travel the world with his/her mates, chances are you’ll be left with the dog. That’s life.

However, I still believe kids and pets go hand in hand together, especially kids and dogs.

I think most of you reading this will agree that kids who have pets make for better, more humane adults. Having a pet teaches the child to have responsibility for another living creature, and creates a bond between them and the animal.

In addition, a pet will also create empathy and raise the child’s self-es-

M

teem. Why? This is because a pet gives unconditional love to a child; a pet will stabilise an unstable world for a child, because no matter what else is going on, a dog still needs walking, feeding and grooming – it’s part of its day-to-day routine.

Routine is important to a child; it makes them feel safe, and pets force us to maintain a routine, helping the entire family structure to be more balanced.

It doesn’t have to be a dog – a goldfish swimming around in a tank can teach children the responsibility of feeding, cleaning and caring.

However, the key to enjoying the most satisfying relationship with your pet is choosing one that suits your lifestyle.

It’s very easy for your child to fall in love with a cutie-pie puppy or a fluffy kitten, but the realities are that different sets of responsibilities fall with different types of pets.

In order to help you make the right choice of pet for your family, I’ve set out a few points for you to consider.

• Families with small children or an elderly relative living with them should consider the size and energy levels of the pet.

If it’s a puppy or a kitten, it will be very active – however, it will also be delicate, and needs to be handled with extreme care.

On the other hand, a large and energetic dog can accidentally harm a small child or an adult who is unsteady on their feet by knocking them over.

• If the home environment is one of total neatness; then you need to expect muddy footprints as well as accidents and hairs from a free-roaming animal.

Therefore, a longhaired dog may not be your best choice. Maybe your best bet is a pet which is confined to quarters, such as fish, birds, or a turtle.

• With certain pets, your garden will suffer.

Dogs will dig holes, urinate and poo.

• If you’re a bit of a home bird, and spend most of your time at home, consider a pet that is happy with such an environment. What about a cat, a rabbit or a bird?

• However, if you’re

an active type of family who enjoys daily walks or loves to jog, then a dog could be your best friend.

Also, there is a social element to dog-walking.

It encourages interaction with others.

• You need to decide just how much time you have to give to a pet.

Keep in mind you are making a commitment that will last for approximately 12 to as much as 20 years if you get a cat or a dog.

My eldest dog is 18. If you get something like a parrot – well, they live up to 70 years, sometimes 80!

Here are some examples of different types of dogs, and how they could suit you and your

As adorable as Rover is, your even more adorable child(ren) may not be the best at tending to his needs, so you should think long and hard about the best kind of pet to suit your family’s life and habits

family.

• A sporty dog: Retriever, Labrador, Spaniel.

Very active, alert, like to be around people, so they’re social animals.

• Terriers: Jack Russell, Wheaton, Fox. Tenacious and brave little guys, and very determined. My “ladies” love to dig, dig and dig again.

They are quite determined and feisty, and this makes them a challenge to train. However, they’re extremely loyal, but can be a bit intoler-

ant of boisterous children.

• Wo r k i n g d o g s : Doberman, Newfoundland, Boxer. Strongwilled, independent, may be physically overpowering; small children and the elderly should be aware of this exuberance.

• Toy dogs: Chihuahua, Yorkie. Companion lapdogs, but still need exercise.

They’re fragile and can easily get crushed under people’s feet; so take

care when having them around a toddler.

They’re loyal and intelligent, and love learning tricks.

All dog breeds must be kept under effective control and exercised regularly. For further information, contact your vet or professional dog trainer.

For more information, log onto www.dspca. ie or contact your vet or email me at miriam.kerins@dspca.ie

18 GAZETTE 14 June 2012

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC FastTunes with Radio Nova’s Dee Woods

REVIEW: ROWLAND’S WANDERERS BRIDGE 27-YEAR GAP

The burning never ends for Dexys’ soul brothers I ROB HEIGH

FORGET the diamond jubilee, diamond geezer Paul McCartney turns 70 on Monday, June 18, and to say that the former Beatle is still going strong is a bit of an understatement.

Fresh from closing the show at the queen’s diamond jubilee concert in London recently, Macca is gearing up to rock the English capital once again: this time at the opening ceremony of the 2012 Olympic Games.

However not everyone thinks he can do no wrong. McCartney came under fire for his vocal performance at the queen’s bash, while others gave him stick for not playing Hey Jude.

Macca’s hit back by saying he’s saving the Beatles’ anthem for the Olympics’ concert and didn’t want to play the same tune to the masses in the same city at gigs that are just weeks apart.

Fair enough, there ARE enough Beatles’ songs to go round, people! Maybe if Elizabeth was called Judy things’d be different but hey, (ob-la-di, ob-la-da), life goes on.

If you do watch McCartney at the opening ceremony on July 27 (he’ll be closing the show once again) then you’ll be in good company: four billion people are expected to tune in and they’ll see him perform Hey Jude and another song which hasn’t been named as yet.

Carry That Weight for the torchbearers maybe? Or Day Tripper for the rubbish athletes? Even with his vocals getting a bashing, there’s no denying the fact that he’s a living legend with five decades of musical genius behind him who still packs more punch than many of today’s newer artists.

Which is why I was surprised to hear The Beatles’ museum in Hamburg is closing down. The reason? Lack of interest! George Harrison once said All Things Must Pass. It’s a sad day when that includes Beatlemania.

ANYONE with any interest in soul music would be able to pick out at will the finest moments from the genre with ease. Otis Redding, Al Green, Geno Washington... all legends, all immortal.

But in the realm of soul from these isles, there would appear to be a very short roll of classic names that spring to mind.

Taking the influences of his youth — his Irish roots, his love of soul and northern soul and a burning passion to express himself musically — Kevin Rowland helped to create one of the most recognisable and influential bands of the eighties, Dexy’s Midnight Runners.

The Irish connection has always been present in Dexy’s music, and Rowland’s search for national identity — Dance Stance’s rebellious stomp, on almost all of Too-RyeAy, and most obviously on Knowledge of Beauty from Don’t Stand... — should put Dexys on a considerable pedestal in Ireland, an expression of exiled Irishness to rank alongside The Pogues as one of the finest products of the British diaspora.

The Dexys line-up includes original members Jimmy Paterson, Kevin Rowland, Pete Williams and Mick Talbot, and viola player Lucy Morgan, proving that 27 years between releases need not diminish their genius

But the misapprehension of their Celtic soul brothers-look, the caricature that the immense success of Come On Eileen created, and the criminal undermining of their 1985 release, Don’t Stand Me Down, led to Dexy’s falling off the cultural radar, and their potential was eroded, leading to the break-up of the band and a number of lost years for Rowland.

The band were reinvigorated by their 2003 tour – an unforgettable night at Vicar Street included

You can call me Paul: Graceland reissued ahead of Dublin date THE legendary Paul Simon and his equally

legendary Graceland album are celebrating the 25th anniversary of the record’s release this month in 1986.

To salute the groundbreaking album, Simon returns to Dublin for two nights at the O2 arena on July 12 and 13, with some of the original African musicians set to join him on stage.

In addition, the album is getting a deluxe re-release, with the CD accompanied by a DVD of Under African Skies, a feature length film which chronicles the creation and lasting influence of Simon’s iconic record.

— but it has taken until now for Rowland to reunite integral members from throughout the band’s classic line-ups — Big Jimmy Paterson on trombone, Mick Talbot on keys, Pete Williams on joint vocal duties — as well as a roll call of other fine musicians to record One Day I’m Going To Soar.

Rowland has seldom been in better voice, effortlessly adding his unique croon to the silky layered and smooth instrumental backing that accompanies each

track. The musical motifs and progressions that appear on opening track, Now, reappear elsewhere throughout the record.

Which, combined with the lyric book for the record — the life and love of Mr Rowland — make this as close to a concept album as Dexys have ever come.

As ever, there is a sense of the confessional and a rare streak of humour and theatricality that many people utterly missed about their past incarnations.

The romanticism and dynamism that the backing — from cafe jazz to Celtic soul — provides Rowland’s lyrics and singing with a perfect underpinning for what is aimed for in this endeavour, and make One Day I’m Going To Soar as good as anything the Midnight Runners ever committed to record.

It doesn’t surpass Don’t Stand Me Down — nothing ever could — but it comes close to its spirit, and is a very much more than welcome return.

14 June 2012 GAZETTE 19

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Graham McNevin, Project Architects

Clearing up some misconceptions

Graham McNevin and Ross Quinn

GRAHAM McNevin and Ross Quinn are associates with Project Architects and have worked in their Dublin office for over 10 years.

Project Architects is an award-winning design focused architects’ practice formed in 1996 to build upon the expertise and experience of the former group established in 1976.

The practice, which employs a core of approximately 15 professional, technical and

support staff from its two offices in Dublin and Cork, has a diverse range of experience in all aspects of architecture, design, planning and infrastructural development.

Talking about the public’s view of architects, Graham says: “The biggest misconception out there is that an architect costs you money. The actual reality is that involving a registered architect at an early stage will save you time and money

and maximise your projects potential.

“I feel that most people don’t fully understand an architect’s role and therefore don’t realise what we can do for you. We have helped people receive finance from banks, funding from investors and grants from the various bodies. Residential, retail and sports clubs have all availed of our service.”

“We are trained professional designers who will lead you expertly

through the planning and building control process, ensuring that the requirements of the local authority are satisfied. We can oversee the construction of your project to better ensure completion on time, on budget and in compliance with legislation. And finally we can certify that your new home or extension is in compliance with Planning Permission and Building Regulations.”

Project Architects

will tailor their service to your financial requirements. Contact them for advice on your new project, large or small on 01-6796466.

Due to the high demand Project Architects are extending their free consultation to anyone who contacts them before August 31, 2012.

Project Architects have just launched their brand new website: www.projectarchitects.ie

Quinnsworth television advertisement.

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: A crisp £20 note Q: When did you start your present job?

A: 15 years ago Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: Seeing a vision become a reality for a client

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

A: None I am very hands on Q: What sport do you follow?

Q – What’s the latest on getting access to money in pensions ? I have a private pension with a sizeable amount of money that I could now well use.

Is there any hope of extrapolating these funds ?

Barry – Cork Street A – Mary Mitchell-O’Connor, the Fine Gael TD, recently proposed a question in the Dail to give access to those with Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVCs) before retirement.

Currently if you have an occupational AVC, you can only access it at retirement age (minimum age 60) which could be some time away for those in their youth.

Implementation of same to access these funds could be some time away while access to the full pension before retirement has not even been mooted.

Clearly we are on a pension time bomb. Currently, there are 420,000 Irish nationals over the age of 65 – 767,000 by 2026 and a whopping 1.8m by 2051 – so there will be greater pressure on the workforce at the time to support the elderly.

In 2010 for every person who retired there were six workers. By 2051, there will be two workers. The state pension is currently € 230.30 per week and for over half the working population, this is the only money they will have when they retire.

But it still also makes sense to invest in a pension, even on 20% tax rate, for every € 100 invested, the fund would have to drop by 20% in the year before you actually lose on the investment.

On retirement, you can commute up to 25% of the fund (or € 200,000 whichever is the greater) as a tax free lump sum with a number of choices and options for investment of the balance.

Email me for a free article originally published in the Sunday Business Post entitled The Pension End Game. Therefore, Barry, I would hold off on cashing your pension and consider increasing your contributions to it instead.

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

Q&A Q: What was your first job?

A: I was an extra in a

PENSION ACCESS

A: All, especially football

much to say lately though)

Q: What sport can you play?

A: Football and golf badly

Q: What was your last Tweet/status update?

A: Facebook status about a

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

A: Movies! Love anything with a twist!

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

A: Combine the three Jednorward!! Scary thought

sports pavilion we have just completed in University of Limerick

Q: Describe your dream meal?

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

A: Again both would be an

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: Over 10 Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: When my flight had to turn back to Australia six hours after we had left

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: My honeymoon in Australia and Thailand

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: Irish football team man-

Q: What music/pictures/ movies do you have on your iPod/iPad? A: Kings of Leon, The Eagles

interesting episode of Come Dine With Me.

ager

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: Rio Ferdinand (hasn’t

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: Any gadget shop

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

A: See the world

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

20 GAZETTE 14 June 2012

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY WE HAVE 135,000* READERS EACH WEEK *based on standard industry measurements

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS

CALL 60 10 240 When dealing with a large-scale renovation, it’s crucial to get an in-depth insight into the process

www.

gazette

RENOVATIONS: KEEPING UP WITH THE COSTS IS KEY TO PLANNING RENOVAT

.com

Tender is the right group way to plan a build All of your latest local news, sport, features and pictures are now just a click away

IF YOU are planning a new build or a renovation, you need to get to grips with the ins and outs of the tendering process if you want to make sure you are on top of your costings.

The tendering process or a Request for Tender (RFT) is a structured invitation where you, the home owner, invite building companies to give you a detailed quotation or cost estimate for a building job based on your plans and requirements which you have previously drawn up.

It is imperative that before you enter into the RFT process that you are decided and happy with your plans as all costings will be based on your plans and design requirements. The plan is the crucial part and it is vitally important that your budget is defined

up front and that you match your design to your budget. Bearing this in mind, there are three key steps to a successful plan.

1. Assess and design the area – know your access points, be aware of where you may need to relocate ser vices and plumbing as that will have an impact on cost.

2. Get plan drawn up by a professional. This should be well drafted, legible and logical.

Realistic in its design and matching your budget.

3. Your plan needs to be specified; the required materials from glazing, to kitchen cabinets, to light switches and sockets need to be defined up front and in detail.

Once your specifications are complete, you will send them out to the builders you have

selected, who will then price as per your specifications.

You will be getting quotations from several sources so it’s important that all involved have the same information.

Quality specification is crucial if you want an accurate tender.

Make sure you are 100% satisfied that what you need is on the costings the builders bring you back and that it matches your specifications.

If the documentation doesn’t match, you may find yourself in a situation where an element of the build may be removed from the project (as it wasn’t on the list the builder brought back) or, it could be added in later at an extra cost.

Once prices come in, you must then meet your builder. You could be entering into a three

of four month project and the building team will be onsite daily. You must be able to communicate with them.

Once you are close to making a decision, you need to go and look at prior work and talk to old customers.

But don’t let positive feedback sway you into making a decision, the quality of previous work will hopefully speak for itself.

When you come to the contracts stage ( d o n ’t a t t e m p t a ny work without contracts) ensure the fees for the Certificate of Compliance is included as part of the costings, as you will need this to sign off the completed build.

To get in touch with HSLC, find them online at www.hslc.ie or call Gerhard on 087 774 9470 or info@hslc.ie

14 June 2012 GAZETTE 21

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS

Edited by Cormac Curtis

RoadSigns Road Signs

SIGNIFICANT GROWTH FOR JAGUAR SALES

Citroen’s designers have gone to town on the DS5, crafting a car with more attention to detail and luxurious touches than you’d expect – but expect to be delighted

A head-turning motor CORMAC CURTIS

IT IS a rare and wonderful occasion when you get a taste of being a kid again – and a week spent with the new Citroen DS5 gave me just that sensation.

At first glance, I was captured by an elegance of design that is mixed with a downright brutishly low-slung stance that, coupled with the almost over-sized alloy wheels, reminded me of some kind of military vehicle.

Citroen have hit it clear out of the park with the DS5 – it has a staggering ability to turn heads.

From every angle, the exterior of this car is a design classic. But, more importantly, the interior has all the looks of a jet fighter’s cockpit, yet at the same time offers all the luxury that you could ever desire.

A beautiful blend of black and maroon leather adorned the seats and trim – the most attractive colour scheme of any car I have driven in recent years.

Every point of contact made me grin with satisfaction – just imagine a youngster on Jim’ll Fix It getting to live out a boyhood dream and you will get the idea!

The driver’s seat just

SPECS: CITROEN DS5 HDi 160bhp 6-speed manual 5-door Saloon Top speed: 215km/h 0 – 100km/hr: 8.5 sec CO2 emissions: 133gm/ km Tax Band: B – €225 Model driven priced from €36,400

seemed to wrap itself around me, preparing me for the joy of driving a very special motor.

The chunky steering wheel is wrapped in leather, boasts a flat bottom, brushed steel accents, and very useful controls for telephone, radio and cruise control.

The edges of the wheel offer attractive contrast stitching – a theme that continues throughout the car.

Under the driver’s left forearm, the “I drive”style system control for the sat nav and radio sits ahead of the brushed steel window control buttons.

Ahead of the gear shift, the centre console contains an array of chunky buttons and dials for climate control air con, heated seats etc. All of these controls have a solid, almost retro feel.

The video display for the on-board sat nav is

The Citroen DS5 interior: “The most attractive colour scheme of any car I have driven in recent years”

bright, easy to read and very accurate. The navigation system includes live traffic information and European maps.

Another feature of the video display is a reversing camera, which I found myself getting very attached to – especially as I manoeuvred this very substantial vehicle during the morning school run.

A lovely touch on the console is a beautifully designed analogue clock – something you don’t see too often in cars any more.

It may not be all that necessary, but like so many features of this car, it adds to the feeling that you are driving something just that little bit special.

Overhead is divided into three separate sunroof sections, or, as Citroen call them, “light wells”.

Each of these light wells is controlled individually by buttons in the roof console.

Also in this console are two drop-down containers for sunglasses, as well as a Citroen emergency call button – an impressive system that can alert emergency services, when activated.

It’s never certain how well the interior of a car will age, and the level of brushed steel and metallic accents here will require a little more attention than most to keep looking as elegant as they did leaving the showroom.

However, the build quality certainly felt very solid and very well put together. When I managed to drag my gaze away from the interior, I finally got driving.

The driver’s outlook reminded me of that of a car far sportier and stealthier – the outside road appears in a kind of panoramic mode, thanks to the wide, shallow windows that wrap around the cabin.

Sometimes, the view is a little compromised, but I found myself getting used to the unusual pillar positions very quickly – a small price to pay for the elegant design that is on display here.

In terms of perform-

ance, there was nothing to disappoint me here, either.

The model I was driving came with a 160bhp Hdi engine, coupled to a six-speed manual gearbox, and it had all the performance I needed.

At this level, it won’t break any speed records, but it was by no means underpowered – all in all, the power-to-weight ratio was bang on the money.

This kind of car doesn’t come around too often – and, with prices starting at around €32,500, it is not completely beyond the budget of someone looking for a car that will not only turn heads, but put a smile on your face every time you get in.

JAGUAR Land Rover Ireland has achieved significant growth in 2012, with combined sales of more than 800 vehicles up to the end of May – an increase of 39.7% versus the same period last year – encouraging growth, given that new car sales for the industry as a whole are down by 8.7%.

The sales increase is mainly owed to the response to the two award-winning models on offer from each brand – the Jaguar XF 2.2 Diesel and the all-new Range Rover Evoque.

Gerard O’Farrell, managing director of Jaguar Land Rover Ireland, said: “The increased demand for both Jaguar and Land Rover demonstrates the unique desirability and strength of our products.

“With pricing starting from €39,000 for the Range Rover Evoque, and €44,820 for the Jaguar XF, there has never been a better time to consider Jaguar and Land Rover.”

RENAULT’S JUNE SCRAPPAGE DEAL ALMOST a year after the Government scrapped scrappage, Renault has brought back a scrappage deal for June, where customers who buy a new Renault car and trade in their eight years or older vehicle will get an extra €1,500 on top of the current offer, and a five years’ unlimited mileage warranty.

Also for June, customers can avail of 0% APR finance offers from Renault Finance.

Renault Ireland pioneered scrappage. ie in late 2009 and saw their sales increase as a result of theirs, and the Government’s, scrappage scheme.

22 GAZETTE 14 June 2012

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Get some guaranteed sunshine with Wingsabroad Turkish holiday specials WINGSABROAD, the Turkish holiday specialist is offering some great deals this summer if you want guaranteed sunshine.

A stay at the three-star Melissa Apartments costs €359pps (self-catering and two sharing).

This includes return flights, seven nights’ accommodation. You will travel from Dublin or Cork on June 24 or June 25, from Shannon.

The next offer is a stay at another three-star resort, Sami Beach Hotel, (B and B basis).

Prices start at €399pps and include return flights and seven nights’ accommodation.

Travel on June 24 from Dublin or on June 25 from Shannon.

Another offer is the four-star Golden Day Wings (B and B basis) from €439pps (two sharing).

This includes return flights, seven nights’ accommodation. Leave on either June 24 from Dublin or Cork or on June 25 from Shannon.

You can stay at the four-star Coastlight Hotel on a B and B basis from €449pps (two sharing).

The price includes return flights, seven nights’ accommodation. Leave from Dublin or Cork on June 24 or from Shannon on June 25.

To stay at the three-star Summer Gardens on a self-catering basis will cost €419pps (two sharing), including return flights, seven nights’ accommodation as stated. Start out from Dublin on June 24 or from Shannon on June 25.

The final offer is to stay at the three-star Marbel Hotel (all-inclusive) from €559pps (two sharing) including return flights, seven nights’ accommodation. Travel on June 24 from Dublin or Cork or else June 25 from Shannon.

For more information or to book please visit www.wingsabroad.ie or call 01 8719444 or contact your local travel agent.

Edited by Mimi Murray

INDIA AND NEPAL: LAUNCH OF ESCORTED TOURS FOR BOTH COUNTRIES

Explore a little Eastern mystery I BAIRBRE NI

BHRAONAIN

F you’ve ever thought about making that daunting trek to Nepal or India but didn’t know where to start, here’s your chance to explore these two countries of Eastern mystery with an escort to lead the way for you.

Gohop.ie have just introduced an escorted tour of both countries which takes in all of their most important historical and religious sites.

Exotic stops on the tour begin with the Indian capital, New Delhi then on to Jaipur and Agra (home of the Taj Mahal).

From here you will go onto Jhansi and the medieval riverside town of Orchha which is filled with shrines and temples.

Next the tour heads to the UNESCO heritage site of Khajuraho where the temples are of the erotic kind and finally it reaches the spiritual heart of India as you fly to Varanasi.

The first stop of the tour is in Old Delhi. You will visit Jama Majid which is the largest mosque in India, take a rickshaw ride in Chandni Chowk and visit Red Fort and Faj Ghat where the shrine

I

Bangla Sahib is the most prominent Sikh house of worship in New Delhi

and cremation site of Mahatma Gandhi.

Next to New Delhi which is a modern, vibrant city with fine examples of Indo-Islamic architecture and the world’s tallest minaret at Qutab Minar.

It also has the India Gate; a war memorial arch and is the residence of India’s president and parliament.

The tour will next take you on to Jaipur where you will visit the magnificent Amber Fort.

Rajput is famous as a complex of palaces and pavilions, gardens and

You will enjoy a sunset visit to the spectacular Taj Mahal

temples.

You will truly feel like a prince or princess of the old Raj as you ascend a hilltop on a decorated elephant.

You will then have the option of seeing Jaipur from the sky in an early morning hot air balloon flight over the pink city.

Agra is famous for its marble and also for its intricate leather work.

You will enjoy a sunset visit to the spectacular Taj Mahal.

This white marble shrine to love was built over a period of 22 years

by the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan for his Queen Mumtaz Mahal to house her mortal remains.

Orchha, or “hidden place” has ruins of the tiered Jahangir Mahal, a fine example of medieval Indo Islamic architecture decorated with paintings and frescoes done in the 17th century.

The Taj Mahal features more murals and frescoes depicting the life of Lord Rama and Krishna and incarnations of Lord Vishnu.

Kathmandu is next on the tour where you will enjoy an early morning boat cruise on the Holy River Ganges.

On the Ganges you will see the “bathing ghats” where thousands of pilgrims pay homage to the Sun God by immersing themselves in the river.

Sarnath is the following place and it’s where Lord Buddha gave his first sermon.

You will then visit the 2500-year-old Swayambhunath Stupa.

This is one of the holiest and oldest Buddhist

chaityas in Nepal.

The tour will then head to Kathmandu’s Durbar Square, the historic seat of Nepalese royalty.

The Gohop escorted tours to India and Nepal run from June 1, 2012 until April 15, 2013.

You can book your tour of 11 nights by contacting www.gohop.ie and prices include 11 nights’ accommodation with half board, English speaking guides, entrance fees to sights, elephant ride, a boat ride in Varanasi and transportation via car.

Prices are €1,590per person sharing (pps) until September 30 2012 (ground only); €1,890pps until April 15, 2013 (ground only); €2,490pps until September 30 2012 (including flights) and €2,790pps until April 15, 2013 (including flights).

The return flights to Delhi, which will be priced on enquiry to ensure the best fares, and visas for India and Nepal are not included in the price.

14 June 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 23

24 BLANCH GAZETTE 14 June 2012

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT

GoingOUT THE PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Travesties

FOLLOWING the hugely successful and popular Plaza Suite, Rough Magic are back at the Pavilion Theatre with the delicious comedy Travesties by Tom Stoppard.

Best-known as the author of the Oscar-winning film Shakespeare in Love and the plays Rosencrantz and Guildenstern are Dead and Arcadia, Stoppard is at his best in this absurdly funny masterpiece featuring James Joyce, Vladimir Lenin and Dadaist Tristan Tzara. Running until June 23, tickets are priced from €18 to €25.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Bloomsday Celebration THE Mill Theatre and Roly Saul’s presents a special Bloomsday Celebration Brunch to mark the 90th anniversary of the publication of Ulysses.

Join them in Roly Saul’s restaurant for a buffet brunch with fare inspired by Leopold Bloom’s breakfast, including a glass of burgundy. Brunch will be accompanied by theatrical readings from Ulysses read by actor Declan Brennan.

Sandra Oman (soprano) will perform Joycean songs including the famous, I Dreamt I Dwelt in Marble Halls, Bahnhofstrasse and She Weeps Over Rahoon (two poems written by Joyce). This event takes place on June 16 at 11.30am. Admission: €15

CIVIC THEATRE 01 462 7477

Anna (Felicity Jones) and Jacob (Anton Yelchin) share a tender moment under the covers

Monteverdi’s Orfeo OPERA Theatre Company, Ireland’s National Touring Opera Company continues its 26th year of touring opera with this memorable and compelling work. OTC is delighted to welcome back founding member Ben Barnes, who directed the company’s first opera in 1986 and now returns to direct Orfeo. This event takes place on June 19 at 8pm.

Admission: €28 & €25 concession

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 John Colleary and Patrick McDonnell THIS is a unique opportunity to see two of Irelands finest stand up’s performing live together in one explosive show.

As well as starring in the The Savage Eye, John Colleary is a writer and performer of Today FM comedy slot, Last Orders. As well as The Savage Eye, Patrick has created memorable characters in Naked Camera and of course Father Ted. This show takes place on June 15 at 8.15pm.

Admission €16.

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

A Crazy little thing A Sundance favourite, Like Crazy never made it to Irish cinemas. Be thankful for the second chance the DVD gives.

I PAUL HOSFORD

SUNDANCE, the indie film festival, has a chequered hit ratio in recent years.

For every Precious in recent times, there has been a Hamlet 2, which sold for $10 million dollars and made less than half that at the US box office.

With that in mind, the viewing public has become somewhat weary of the Sundance seal of approval, even given 2010’s spectacular performance, when Academy Awards rained down on Sundance picks.

One film that came out of the 2011 festival highly tipped was Like Crazy, but this intimate depiction of a long-distance relationship never found a home in Irish cinemas, due mainly to a complete lack of buzz on this side of the pond.

It can be hard to sell to most audiences a trip to a

FILM OF THE WEEK: Like Crazy #### (15) 90 mins Director: Drake Doremus Starring: Anton Yelchin, Felicity Jones, Jennifer Lawrence, Alex Kingston, Charlie Bewley

OUR VERDICT:

INSPIRED by director Doremus’ legal battles to get his ex-wife an American work visa, Like Crazy is an immediate, raw and close to the bone examination of relationships and distance, both physical and emotional. Occassionaly beautiful and always assured, it is a film that will stay with you beyond its 90 minutes.

film that cost less than a two-bedroom apartment in Monasterevin. Well, pre-crash anyway.

Shot on a handheld Canon EOS 7D for less than $250,000, Like Crazy tells the story of two LA college students, British rose Anna and California furniture designer Jacob.

Refreshingly, there is no meet-cute. Nothing contrived happens to bring them together.

There is merely a note on a windshield and a tentative phonecall.

From there, the two fall madly in love and, with the school year due to end, Anna makes the

fateful decision to stay for the summer, in direct contravention of her student visa.

Flying home for a wedding, she is forced to spend a few months in Blighty away from her love in LA. Upon trying to re-enter the States, however, she falls foul of immigration.

That leaves the couple with no choice but to split. Their lives are too disparate, too separate to overcome the time and space differences.

What follows is a fouryear journey through getting back together, visits to London, new partners,

engagements and constant legal battles.

This not an heroic, triumph over-the-odds story, however. This a cutting insight into two desperately flawed characters that, at times, you just want to shake.

This is, for this reviewer, the film’s biggest single achievement.

The idea that you have to fully like characters has always stuck in my craw, not that I know what a craw is.

For me, the premise is flawed. Unlikable characters, akin to unlikable people, are often fascinating.

The idea that otherwise good people would make bad choices through stubbornness, poor communication or insecurity is not bad storytelling, it is a fact of life.

W hen Anna reads Jacob’s text messages and sees communications with an ex, some will see a completely unlikeable

character, borne of black and white.

But, what Doremus has actually done is create a character of greys.

Someone driven to distraction by the thought that their partner has a life 5,500 miles away that she may never know.

Devoting all of your screen time to two characters, either together or separately takes immense faith.

Giving them flaws so obvious and exposed, is fearless.

The film is weighted brilliantly on the shoulders of Felicity Jones, as Anna and Anton Yelchin, as Jacob.

Newcomer Jones is the standout, however. She shows a deftness and subtlety that many actresses her age lack and it is no wonder she bagged the Sundance award for breakthrough performance, showing that not all Sundance recommendations are bad.

14 June 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 25

GazetteGAMING GAMING Bytesandpieces Camera is sure to be snapped up

Using television’s Game of Thrones as an example of providing supplementary info over your smartphone for your favourite TV shows, Marc Whitten, head of Microsoft’s XBox Live division, demonstrated how its SmartGlass service aims to underline the company’s drive to master the home entertainment hub

Weee love E3’s show I SHANE DILLON

THE greatest show in town, the annual E3 sees games developers, publishers, marketeers, icons, gurus, journalists, fans and many more gather in Los Angeles for a look at what to expect in the gaming (and tech) world over the next 12 months.

It’s the biggest international such event for anyone and everyone, and, while there can be dull E3s just as easily as exceptional ones, they’re always worth paying attention to.

As always, it’s the games and players that don’t attend E3 that set

tongues a-wagging, and this year was no different.

For example, while nobody was remotely surprised that there wasn’t so much as a whisker of Grand Theft Auto V on show – frankly, GTA developer Rockstar are too big to stoop to the biggest games show in the world, and never show their wares – it was the non-showing of other notable titles that raised eyebrows.

Sony’s long-delayed The Last Guardian, for instance, once again failed to make a showing for the PlayStation 3.

On the other hand,

Sony wowed crowds with stunning gameplay from a number of PS3 titles, with The Last Of Us setting an apparent benchmark in mature gaming and graphics – just one of a number of heavy-hitting PS3-exclusive titles on show.

Nintendo, too, impressed, as people finally got to see what its upcoming console – the Wii U – is capable of.

Given the breathtaking fiscal losses posted

by Nintendo in the past year, the Wii U really had to impress, and especially when considering its somewhat head-scratching concept of a giant

controller that’s also kind of a tablet display screen and, errr, um ...

However, its capabilities became much clearer for those that picked it up and tried it out, clearly making the Wii U one to watch when the innovative console releases.

Of course, Microsoft wasn’t going to let its rivals steal the show, and, in addition to a number of hefty gaming announcements, its main one concerned “SmartGlass”.

This, it seems, fits the company’s goal of unifying home entertainment in a one-stop-shop, such that, for example, your standard smartphone/

tablet could have innovative uses to tie in to a number of home entertainment hubs.

In this way, your phone/tablet could, say, provide extra uses for your games, or control your TV, or provide supplementary information about your favourite show, and so on.

All this, and much, much more was on show at E3. Despite the difficult economic times we’re all facing - as well as gamers around the world - E3 showed that, as always, the gaming and tech worlds have an awful lot to look forward to in the coming 12 months.

Anotherweebyte...

Techies won’t be impressed – but many readers will buy this back-to-basics phone FOR all of their ever-increasing power, there’s just one thing about mobile phones that companies rarely, if ever, want to talk about – the fact that an awful lot of phone users have absolutely no interest in almost all of what their phones can do.

One such group are older citizens.

Personal experience, and anecdoctal evidence, suggests that many older people couldn’t care less about apps, Wifi functionality, and so on – they simply want to be able to make and receive calls, send occasional texts, perhaps use picture messaging, – but

that’s about all.

Step forward Vodafone, and its exclusively available emporia CLICK – a stripped-back flipscreen mobile phone with few “unecessary” bells and whistles, yet with a number of interesting, and useful functions.

It’s a streamlined, somewhat basic phone – however, these are also its strengths, as its chunky and tactile buttons, scalable screen font sizes, emergency access to key numbers, and other such functions go against the grain of what the average mobile phone does – and makes the emporia

CLICK all the better for it.

I can see how it will appeal to many phone owners looking for a phone that’s, well, just a phone, rather than an all-singing, toocomplicated “all-in-one entertainment system”. Certainly, I have older relatives who’re looking for exactly this kind of just-a-phone phone.

The emporia CLICK is available at Vodafone stores, priced from €79.99, though special offers (eg number switching) may apply.

AS I’M looking at some of the latest tech this week, whether in gaming terms or hardware, it’s a good time to point out that Sony are rolling out another top-notch camera soon (July), ready to continue blurring the lines between “amateur” and “professional” camera models.

Space prevents me from going into all the details of the highly-impressive new Cyber-shot RX100 (right), but the basics are anything but basic, and will greatly impress any other photographers out there.

For instance, with an effective sensor resolution of 20.2 megapixels, courtesy of its special Exmor CMOS sensor; 3.6x optical zoom with its F1.8 Carl Zeiss Vario-Sonnar lens; a maximum ISO of 25600; 1,229k dot resolution for its 7.5cm Xtra Fine LCD screen; new WhiteMagic technology that uses white pixels in addition to RGB – well, there’s a long, long list of features that will be complete gibberish to non-enthusiasts, but make the Cyber-shot RX100 very impressive indeed.

It’s a great addition to Sony’s already top-notch Cyber-shot line, and is sure to be snapped up once it hits the shops.

GAZETTE

26 BLANCH GAZETTE 14 June 2012

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PLANNING NOTICE

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FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL

FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Roy & Maeve O’Donnell, intend to apply for Retention Permission for 3no. slit windows to the east side of existing dwelling house and Planning Permission for a single storey extension to the east side of existing dwelling house and all associated site works at 13 Hollystown Demesne, Dublin 15. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours of 9.30 16.30 Monday - Friday. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks, beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

Planning permission is sought

by Uxbridge Properties Ltd. for alterations part of a previously approved development Reg. Ref. FW09A/0087 (An Bord Pleanála Ref. PL06F.234670) and Reg. Ref FW11A/0025 (An Bord Pleanála Ref. PL06F.239062) at Castleknock Road, Castleknock, Dublin 15 to the rear of Castleknock Village Centre and Ashleigh Shopping Centre. The proposed alterations consist of: The subdivision of the ground floor of Block C to provide a 217 sq. m. retail unit. The proposal includes new shopfront, all related internal alterations, stair cores, partition walls and other ancillary works. No increase in height or additional floor area is proposed to the development as approved by An Bord Pleanála. This application also provides for subsidiary alcohol sales to be incorporated into the anchor food store retail unit. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority (Fingal County Council, Grove Road, Blanchardstown, Fingal, Dublin 15) during its public opening hours (9.30-16.30 Monday to Friday). A submission or observation in relation to the Application may be made in writing to the Planning authority on payment of a fee of €20, within the period of 5 weeks, beginning on the date of receipt

by Fingal County Council of the Application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application.

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I, Robert Reddy Intend to apply for permission for development at this site address: No. 3 Diswellstown Cottages, Castleknock, Dublin 15. The development will consist of Remodelling of the existing dwelling house and provision of a single storey domestic extension to the rear and to the west of the existing house, demolition of the existing outside toilet, provison of a new single storey garage, boiler room and storage shed to the rear of the site, and all associated site works and services.

The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during the public opening hours of 9.30 - 16.30 Monday - Friday at Fingal County Council, Grove Road, Blanchardstown, Fingal, Dublin 15. (to inspect Planning Applications on all lands west of the N2) A submission or observation in relation to the Application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of a fee of €20, within the period of 5 weeks, beginning on the date of receipt by Fingal County Council of the Application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

We Siobhan and Henry Byrne are applying for: i) Full Planning Permission for an attic conversion with change of roof profile to side to dutch hip roof with rooflights to rear ii) Retention permission for external door to side passageway all with associated site works at 28 Riverwood Court, Carpenterstown, Dublin 15. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours of 9.3016.30 Monday - Friday.

A submission or observation may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (20Euros) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of this application.

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14 June 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

AMERICAN DREAM: College matches set to light up Parnell and Donnybrook: Page 29

SOCCER: FAI SUMMER SCHOOLS SET TO KEEP THE EURO 2012 BUZZ ALIVE AT CAMPS

Super summer soccer schools set to sizzle sport@gazettegroup.com

WITH only days left to avail of the early booking discount for Dublin players, the FAI are urging future Irish internationals to follow up their interest in the Euros with the eFlow FAI Summer Schools this summer.

An estimated 4,000 budding soccer stars are due to sign up to one of the 55 designated schools which will commence on July 1.

The FAI’s discount offer will come to a close on June 15, so children from the age of six to teenagers of up to 14-years-old need to register as soon as they can to keep the Euro 2012 buzz going throughout the summer.

These week-long soccer schools are open to boys and girls of all abilities and, with three different camps on offer, including girls-only and goalkeeper camps, there is plenty of choice for all levels of abil-

ity and experience.

All of the camps will be overseen by FAI-accredited coaches who can provide an opportunity for children to learn new skills, develop existing skills, have fun and benefit from the guidance of some of Ireland’s best soccer coaches.

On the first day of camp, each participant will receive a full kit, a football and a backpack.

Encouraging local Dublin soccer players to sign-

Local soccer star Stephen Ward and friend promote the eFlow FAI Summer Schools at the Aviva Stadium

up, Portmarnock native and Irish international player, Stephen Ward, who himself participated in the soccer schools as a young player, said: “I participated in the camps when I was a kid and not only did it help

me to improve as a player, it was also great fun during the summer holidays.

“With 55 Dublin clubs hosting camps, the fully qualified coaches will help young talent to develop and improve their soccer

skills in a fun and interesting way.

As an additional bonus and to mark the beginning of the 2012 eFlow FAI Summer Soccer Schools, eFlow is offering free jersey personalisation to the

first 200 eFlow customers who book their place at any of the camps around the country.

For further information on the camps and to book a place, visit www.summersoccerschools.ie or

28 BLANCH GAZETTE 14 June 2012

GazetteSport Sport

Louise Ellison, Maeve Turner and Mary O’ Dwyer

The group were all able to post great times despite the heat

Ellie Heffernan and John Stack

Mini Marathon Ladies on the run cross the finish line ONDAY, June 4 saw Dublin play host once more to the annual Women’s Mini Marathon. For some women, this is a yearly event; however, for others it would be a brand new athletic experience.

Ellie Heffernan, a veteran of the minimarathon, decided that this year she would help train a group of newcomers so they could run the marathon.

She called the group Ladies on the Run and they trained out of Heffernan’s gym, Summerfield Health and Fitness, that she runs with her husband, John Stack.

Ellie Heffernan, Hanea Shushan, Ann-Marie, Mary O’Dwyer and Louise Dunne

M

Louise Ellison, Maeve Turner, Mary O’Dwyer and Clare Brannelly

The triumphant group meeting at Summerfield Gym for the first

having completed the 5km John Davis race in preparation

run after the mini-marathon

14 June 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 29

Friday night lights coming to Dublin

FastSport

American football is coming to the city in force this summer, and Notre Dame v Navy is not Bike week events set the only attraction on offer, writes ROB HEIGH to re-cycle family fun IT’S no understatement to say that there is nothing like an American Football match to illustrate all the passion, the glamour and the commitment to sporting endeavour in one single event.

From the pitch to the rafters, there is a unique buzz that cannot be found in any other sport in the world.

For a seemingly privileged few who get pitchside at the NFL matches we see on TV, they experience one of the most exciting, involving and intense sports played just within their reach.

But, in a few short weeks, the thrill of American Football is coming to local pitches in Dublin. On the weekend of August 31, there will be a celebration of the sport in Parnell Park and Donnybrook Stadium, with 12 top-class US high school and NCA A Division

III college teams taking part in a Friday Night Lights event never before attempted in the city, ahead of the main event of the weekend, the regular season game between Notre Dame and Navy at the Aviva Stadium.

The double-headers

on hand to find out more about the tournament.

“I’ve brought Division 3 college sides over to Ireland to play one-off matches before, but when I saw the date of the Notre Dame v Navy game, a light went off in my head,” said Steenberge, an enthusias-

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

‘We wanted to make the event as accessible as possible.

Anyone who loves sport can come with their whole family.’

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

here in Dublin, and in Pairc Tailteann in Navan, are the culmination of a plan set in motion by Notre Dame football legend, Patrick Steenberge.

Steenberge and his partners in setting up the Global Ireland Football Tournament (GIFT) American football event were in Dublin last week, and GazetteSport was

tic icon of the athletic programme at Notre Dame and founder of Global Football, who have been taking American Football out to the wider world for many years now.

“The Notre Dame and Navy game is happening right at the start of our football season. I started calling some people, and there was a great interest

in getting this tournament organised.

“I thought I would have four college teams travelling, which would have been fine, but more and more wanted to come, which means we can have these three-double headers in three great venues.”

Steenberge was clear about what impact he hopes bringing the games to local venues will have.

“Putting the sport on people’s doorsteps was very important to us. Playing in Navan, at Donnybrook and in Parnell Park is critical to that. If we had stuck to our original plan, we would have been playing at RDS, UCD and Donnybrook. But we realised that was only one neighbourhood we would be reaching.

“So, by playing at these venues and making the prices affordable for people was a key to making this event accessible and

Irish American Football Association Chairman Greg Loughran (centre left) presents Patrick Steenberge with an Ireland shirt, flanked by Brian Mullins of UCD (left) and Regis Scafe, head coach of John Carroll University (right)

as inclusive as possible.

“There is six hours of entertainment on offer, and the people who come along will get to understand that there is more to American Football than the top-level NFLtype matches. In the US, American Football is accessible to all people in local communities, and we wanted to do that here as well.

“Anyone who loves sport can come out with their whole families, and see home high-level competition. It’s not NFL or Division 1 college football, but it is very competitive and a lot of fun.”

Speaking at the event, the Irish American Football Association president, Greg Loughran, said: “We are hoping that there will be a lot of buzz about the matches taking place later this summer, from the Notre Dame and Navy game all the way through to these college matches.

“We hope that the event will mean that there will be a lot more people getting interested in American Football, which we hope to pick up on, and let people see what we are doing about bringing people into playing the game in Ireland.

“We have an U-13 and U-15 travelling to Holland for the European championships this year, which is a huge step for American Football in Ireland.”

For more information, see www.americanfootball.ie and www.gift2012. com

IRELAND’S annual Bike Week is taking place from June 16 to 24. A variety of cycling and awareness-raising events are being organised including a fun family 6km cycle from Marlay Park on June 23 at 3pm.

This free event is organised by Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown Sports Partnership and Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council for families and any age or fitness level.

All are welcome and encouraged to attend, but places are limited, so pre-registration is essential. There will also be a goodie bag, highviz vest and refreshments at the finish line for all who take part.

The route starts at Marlay Park, down to Grange Road and along a new urban cycle route towards Dundrum Shopping Centre and back for refreshments and goodies.

According to Shane McArdle, coordinator of DLRSP: “This event will be a great way for families to get out cycling during Bike Week along a safe route that avoids traffic.”

To register your interest for this event and get a full list of the activities taking place in the County during Bike Week, contact DLRCC at 01-2047026 or fgill@dlrcoco.ie.

DLRSP are keen to promote cycling as a cheap, reliable, fast mode of transport which they say: “Keeps you feeling fit and healthy, and has huge environmental benefits. So, dust down your bike and beat the traffic for Bike Week 2012”.

Artists sought for Horse Show contest THE Dublin Horse Show is offering one lucky primary school student the chance to win a family season pass to the show if they can create a poster for the renowned equestrian event.

19 runners-up will receive a one-

day family pass for Saturday, August 18, and the winning artworks will be featured on the official Dublin Horse Show website.

2012 will be the 139th running of the show, which takes place from August 15 to 19.

For more information on the Dublin Horse Show and the competition, see www.dublinhorseshow.com

30 BLANCH GAZETTE 14 June 2012

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

SOCCER: AMALGAMATION PROVES STRENGTH IN LOCAL SIDE

Huntstown Hartstown Football Club’s Under-11 Premier side were among the club’s successful teams throughout this past season

Horgan testimonial set to benefit Irish charity ROBBIE Horgan’s testimonial game will see Drogheda United and Shamrock Rovers’ old boys join forces to pay tribute to a legend of league football this Saturday.

The former Clonsilla resident, part of the Shamrock Rovers four-in-a-row winning side (1983-1987), faces off against Drogheda United’s 1988-1992 team in Hunky Dory’s Park, Drogheda at 6.30pm on June 16.

The designated charity is the Irish Wheelchair Association, whose activities are also featured in a promotional video put together

by Paul Holland charting Robbie Horgan’s amazing 25 years as a player in the League.

The video is introduced by RTE’s Con Murphy and the legendary Johnny Giles. The documentary includes rare footage from Robbie’s 11 years with Shamrock Rovers (including the Rovers four-in-a-row 1983-1987) and four years with Drogheda United, including a 2-0 home win over Derry in 1990 which features many of Robbie’s outstanding saves.

Many of Ireland’s best-known football personalities pay tribute to the only player to have played in both Milltown and Tallaght.

They also reminisce about the famous Hoops team and the Drogheda team that won two First Division titles — John Giles, Pat Byrne, Mick Neville, Mick Byrne, Mick Cooke, Paul Osam, Paul Whelan, Dusty Flanagan, Damien Richardson, Ray Treacy, Tom Mohan, Danny O’Connor and even Michel Soldado, the exSpanish International joins in on congratulating Robbie on his 25 years.

Banter with current Drogheda players Alan McNally, Gabriel Sava, Brian Gannon, Derek Prendergast, Paul Crowley, Gavin Brennan, Drogs fans, groundsman Matt Kavanagh and chairman Jim Agnew is also included.

The extended version of the DVD will be shown at the gala dinner after the testimonial on June 16 at the Boyne Valley Hotel.

Tickets for the match itself are €10 for adults and are €5 for children.

Locals united for success I sport@gazettegroup.com

IN THEIR first season since the amalgamation of Huntstown Villa and Hartstown United, Hartstown Huntstown Football Club have paved the way for a new future, with the various teams’ successes speaking for themselves.

The U-15 Premier side showed great passion and tenacity in their pursuit of the All-Ireland Cup, reaching the last 32 of the prestigious tournament under the guidance of Kieran Cahill, in a feat virtually unheard of for a club on their maiden voyage.

The representative

selectors took note of their courage and calm, awarding seven of the team places on their panel, while star player, Yoyo, was awarded a spot on the Kennedy Cup team.

The U-11 Premier side found themselves pipped at the post in the Charles Haughey Cup by local rivals, Corduff, while the U-11As found themselves promoted with the help of managers Declan Sherry and Paul McGuinness.

With the two teams to play in the U-12 Premier next year, it’s sure to pose some selection problems for League of Ireland legend, Dermot O’Neill.

Collette Farrell’s U-14’s

Cheque this out: St Brigid’s bumper lotto jackpot won ST BRIGID’S GAA club’s huge lotto jackpot

of €15,000 was recently won by Jim Daly after several weeks when the big prize was not won.

Jim is pictured here being presented with his cheque by St Brigid’s club secretary, Mary O’Connor.

A club spokesman said: “The Lotto is a vital element in keeping this voluntary organisation in Dublin 15 in business and catering for over 800 juveniles from the locality.”

romped to the semi-final of their respective cup, while a dramatic last day of the season victory saw Paul O’Keefe and Michael Cahill’s U-13s claim the league title.

The U-12s enjoyed a successful journey in their league campaign with three of their starters being selected for the representative panel.

The U-17 ladies showed themselves to be a strong consolidated team with a mid-table finish in their league pursuit.

The pride of the club belongs in its nursery, with over 60 children meeting up on a weekly basis to learn the basics in a fun

environment, of which 20 will graduate next year to play U-8 football.

Figuratively shooting up from the ground, only in their second season as of September, the club will avail of the new FAI and UEFA approved facilities in Hartstown Park for next year’s campaign.

Director of football, Dave Byrne, caught up with GazetteSport to share his vision for the future.

“The club’s core principles are participation, in the best facilities with the best coaches. So far, I think we’ve made great strides for the future and we’re becoming one of

the fastest-growing clubs in Dublin.

“We pride ourselves on our progressive and innovative attitude, and this is evident as we forecast that there will be some 30 teams decking out in our colours next year,” said Byrne.

The Hartstown Huntstown Football Club will be running their minileagues on June 22 to 24 in Hartstown Community School, with organisers expecting 400 players to play over the course of the three days.

For more information, call Tony on 087 906 3260. Cost of participation is only €3 per child.

14 June 2012 BLANCH GAZETTE 31

FOOTBALL: ST BRIGID’S TAKE SFC 2012 BY STORM

CLUB NOTICEBOARD ST BRIGID’S YOU CAN register online now for the

looking for Irish speakers from St

Summer Mini-Leagues Festival on

Brigid’s to take part in the show. If

June 11 to 16.

you would like to take part, email

First anniversay Mass for Yvonne Campbell is on Friday, June 22, in Laurel Lodge Church at 7pm.

Our senior footballers continued the defence of their Championship title with a great win over Lucan.

Inter 1s had a great cup win v Clann Mhuire, while our inter hurlers lie top of their championship group after beating Liffey Gaels on Sunday.

info@stbrigidsgaa.com.

Club snooker table now available to rent to all members during bar hours. More information on the website.

Club lotto is now €9,200 this week and takes place in Russell Park on Thursday.

Club lotto can also be played online now, via the website.

Deepest sympathies to the Greally

New players are always welcome;

family on the passing of John last

please contact our club coach, Paul,

week.

on 087 915 4748.

Junior B and C footballers and three adult hurling teams are in league action this week; fixtures on web.

TG4 are doing a new programme on Dublin supporters, and they are

Send your match reports and photos to info@stbrigidsgaa.com Finally, congratulations to the inter 2 footballer Mick Gahan on his marriage to Denise on Friday.

ERIN GO BRAGH Current SFC champions, St Brigid’s, put on an impressive performance against Lucan Sarsfields . Picture: Chris Lynam

CONGRATULATIONS to our junior

22 at 6.30pm. The Bumper Draw is

Brigid’s cruise to SFC win over Lucan

hurlers who beat Setanta last Sun-

to be held on the night. €10 per per-

day in the Championship by 1-8 to

son and this includes a child under

1-5.

12 going free. Join in the craic and

I sport@gazettegroup.com

REIGNING senior football champions, St Brigid’s, booked their place in the next round of the championship last week, after Mark Byrne’s side comprehensively defeated Lucan Sarsfields in a Round 2 fixture played in a deluged Parnell Park.

Two goals from Dublin’s All-Ireland U-21 winner, Philly Ryan, put the Castleknock side well on their way in the first half, leaving too much for Mick Bohan’s men to do, fighting an uphill battle in the second half.

The reigning champions put their first past Sarsfields’ Fergus Gordan after a clever move from Ken Darcy, who pulled the Lucan backs away from Ryan, who found the ball in plenty of space before slipping a tidy finish past the Lucan keeper’s near post.

It was the experienced Paddy Andrews who was the architect for the second. The intercounty player did very well to draw to Lucan’s backs again, providing Ryan with another inlet of space, which he was all too happy to attack, putting the ball past Gordan from 10 yards.

B r i g i d ’s ke p t t h e pressure on Sarsfields throughout the first half, with further points from Cian Mullins, John O’Loughlin and Lorcan McCarthy, while Dermot Gallagher grabbed one for Lucan.

Lucan came out a g g r e s s i ve l y i n t h e second half, with two points from a pair of Gallagher frees showing their Castleknock rivals that it would be no walk in the park, and reducing their lead to eight points quickly after the restart.

However, just as they had the wind in their sails, it was knocked

quickly out by Odhran McCann, who found the net after an assist from Darcy, the full forward in exceptional form on the night.

Sarsfields’ veteran Stephen O’Shaughnessy found the towering figure of Brian Collopy with a rangy pass, which the full-forward fisted past Shane Supple, giving the side a big lift in the last 15 minutes.

The game appeared to be about to turn in Sarsfields favour when a Brigid’s player was dismissed. but thoughts of an unlikely comeb a c k we r e q u i c k l y extinguished when the on-form Andrews and Darcy put crucial and decisive points on the board for the Russell Park men.

W hile St Brigid’s move confidently into Round 4 of the tournament, Mick Bohan will have his eyes firmly fixed on this weekend, where Lucan must bank

a win to keep their Senior Football Championship hopes alive.

ST BRIGID’S - S Supple; C Freeman, Martin Cahill, A Creagh; A Daly, C Doyle, G Kane; C Mullins, J O’Loughlin; O McCann, B Cahill, L McCarthy; P Ryan, K Darcy, P Andrews.

Subs: C Kilmurray for Doyle (52), D O’Connor for Darcy (58), E Maguire for Andrews (61).

The annual club facilities fee is due

support your community. Contact

by the end of June. For more infor-

Wayne 087 696 6275, Alan 087 968

mation, contact Sinead at edgelys@

2122 or Sean 086 124 7585 for tickets

gmail.com.

or further information.

Our U-13s (kids born in 1999)

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 15,

are looking for new pla yers for

16, 18 and 24. There was no jack-

both football and hurling. Contact

pot winner. Next week’s jackpot is

George at 087 328 7022 for more

€5,700. The draw is to be held in The

information.

Paddocks. We would encourage all

Details of our club dinner dance

members to support our weekly

will be announced shortly and any

lotto. Tickets are €2 per ticket, or

volunteers who would like to help

three for €5.

organise it can contact Sinead on 086 889 1551.

This is a key fundraiser for this club.

Erin Go Bragh GAA invites you to

There are tickets behind the bar

A Night at the Races in Harold’s

in the Paddocks, or contact John

Cross Greyhound Racing on June

Kinsella on 086 818 4054.

ST PEREGRINE’S THE senior footballer s head to Parnell Park to take on Kilmacud Crokes this week in their rearranged SFC game.

Follow us on Twitter @peregrinesgaa.

Entertainment this Saturday is from Tow the Line.

Club Lotto: Jackpot was not won.

Watch the Euros in the clubhouse:

Numbers drawn were 6, 9, 16 and 28.

Ireland v Spain on Thursday and

Next week’s jackpot is €3,800.

next Monday.

Tickets for the Leinster semi-final

An Ireland jersey will be raffled off

on July 1 can now be ordered via

after each of Ireland’s games, and

Mary Murtagh.

special promotions on the nights.

Club shop vouchers are now available.

Details and contacts can be found on the club website, CNP.ie, which will be finished shortly.

Bingo continues every Wednesday night in the clubhouse from 8.30pm and this week’s jackpot is €700 .

The club monster draw has been put back until June 30.

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

ALL OF YOUR BLANCHARDSTOWN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

CHAMPS’ CHALLENGE: Brigid’s Dublin SFC form continues in style P31

JUNE 14, 2012

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS: Top American college football coming to town P29

GazetteSPORT

The West Dublin Rhinos ended the regular season with win against Carrickfergus Knights to ensure they entered the play-off round with a home tie

Rhinos’ late charge breaks new ground Power play gives Dublin 15 side a home IAFL playoff date in their pursuit of the Shamrock Bowl blanchardstownsport@gazettegroup.com

THE WEST Dublin Rhinos are looking forward to the first IAFL play-off game in their history as their bid for the Shamrock Bowl continues.

The Dublin 15 based club had already been awarded one of the wildcard places in the play-off phase of the competition, with the Carrickfergus Knights the opposition, no matter the result of their final regular season game.

But a 7-3 victory over the Knights – the Rhinos first-ever win north of the border – means they rewarded themselves with the psychological upper hand as well as home-field advantage in Castleknock College for the play-off tie.

Right guard Conor O’Sullivan summed it up as the Rhinos clawed their way from behind for the second week running to secure a home playoff berth.

Knowing that they would face another trip 190km north should they lose, the Rhinos were desperate for a win to wrap up a home tie.

That desperation would be met on the other

side, however, as the Knights had as little interest in coming south as the Rhinos had in travelling the opposite direction. That led to the game being a tense, hard-hitting affair.

The Rhinos started brightly, moving the ball down the field, with Robert Pops and quarterback Sean Power moving the chains.

Power was originally the third string choice, but Stephen Macken’s emigration to Australia and Joe Grey’s bruised ribs, sustained in just his third play since stepping in to the QB role, left the Rhinos scrambling for cover for the crucial position, but Power proved equal to the task at hand.

Eoin Fox’s spectacular diving interception was the highlight of a scoreless first half, a rare enough occurrence in the game.

But the match was anything but boring, espcially with the heroics of Grey, who came off the bench with injured ribs to relieve a hurt Power. Shane McKeogh would pick off the Knights QB to end a redzone attack by the home side.

The Knights piled on the pressure late in the third quarter, camping on the five-yard line.

The Rhinos vaunted defence would hold firm, however, with Gavin Barr, Nick Newby and Martin Lynch all making contributions.

Paul McKillop would kick the home side in front from a field goal and the roar from the yellow and black fans said all that it needed to; in a game this tight, one score could have been the winner.

As it was, it came down to one play. Shaun Douglas, the Rhinos rookie receiver, took the ensuing kick off down the field and, following a thunderous block by Barry Bolton and a horsecollar penalty, the Rhinos stood just 16 yards from the endzone.

Dan Breslin would pick up the first eight of those yards, before Power got within two himself.

An ugly take of the next snap didn’t throw Power off as he burst into the endzone. Paul Hosford would tack on the extra point to ensure the Knights would need a touchdown to win.

Their chances of doing that were ultimately ended as Adam Skelly came up with an interception to allow the Rhinos run out the clock and secure the win.