Blanchardstown Gazette

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February 7, 2013 Find us on

Month XX, 2012 BLANCHARDSTOWN • BLAKESTOWN • HARTSTOWN • COOLMINE • TYRRELSTOWN • DUNBOYNE • CORDUFF • MULHUDDART • ONGAR

INSIDE: Your essential guide to make this Valentine’s Day extra special P17

Soccer:

Dunboyne see off Joey’s with late winner Page 30

Darts:

Win the chance to play against Phil Taylor Page 27

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES......................6 DUBLIN LIFE...................11 OUT&ABOUT .................20 CLASSIFIEDS ................26 SPORT ...........................27

GO LIVE: Draiocht nominated as one of the best Dublin music venues Page 4

Limits to cemetery access cause concern  LAURA WEBB

RESTRICTIONS to the opening times of the main gate at Mulhuddart Cemetery have been put on hold so the council can discuss the controversial plans with local representatives.

A sign erected by the council at the cemetery last week shocked local residents when it stated the main access gate would be closed all day on Sun-

days and from 5pm to 8am, Monday to Saturday.

Local residents and politicians voiced their concerns about the Sunday closure, saying that day is an “integral part of family schedules” to visit loved ones.

The restriction has now been “deferred”, pending consultation with elected representatives at an upcoming committee meeting.

Full Story on Page 3

Cold feet: Nesbitt braving the elements for a new film TV AND MOVIE STAR James Nes-

bitt was nabbed by Gazette star reporter Laura Webb this week when he braved the elements to film scenes for a new Irish film, Gold, in St Catherine’s Park.

The Cold Feet and Hobbit actor spoke to Laura about the film for an exclusive interview in next week’s paper.

Picture: Cathy Weatherston

2 BLANCH Gazette 7 February 2013

dublin GAZETTe newspapers i n f o r m at i o n

funds ‘Challenging year ahead’ predicted

Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 - 6010240 Dublin Gazette Newspapers publish eight weekly quality free titles, covering the greater Dublin area from Swords to Dun Laoghaire

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www.gazettegroup.com Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

Despite the budget increase Cllr Mary McCamley (Lab) said staff at the hospital will still be working on a tight budget

Connolly Hospital gets 6% rise in its budget It has been announced that Connolly Hospital has received an increase of 6% in its annual budget for the year from the HSE. Mulhuddart councillor Mary McCamley (Lab) welcomed the news, but said staff at the hospital will still be working on a tight budget.

“Connolly Hospital is such an important part of this community and we, as residents, are so lucky to have such an organisation on our doorstep.

“Because of the moratorium, staff who leave the

 laura webb lwebb@gazettegroup.com

HSE [and] Connolly Hospital are not replaced, and this puts further pressure on the staff when there is little or no funds to recruit extra agency staff at times of crisis.

“Budgets have been the foremost worry to all managers and CEOs of hospitals over the past few budget periods…

Each year the allocation of monies was dropping to such a degree that there

was constant talk of ward closures and cutbacks for patients.

“Hopefully, with this small increase in budget, some of these worries can be eliminated. It must be noted that the throughput to the hospital had increased but patient care was always at the forefront. Still, staff will find it difficult to [work] within this budget,” she added.

Fine Gael councillor Kieran Dennison said the hospital is facing a very “challenging year ahead”, having run over budget last year.

“In Connolly, the 2013 budget will support 2012 activity levels while allowing for projected cost

increases due to demographics, technology and clinical advancements.

“All hospitals had their accumulated €271 million deficits of recent years ‘written off’. However, all hospitals will now be challenged to keep within their allocations for 2013,” he added.

Meanwhile, HIQA, the Health Information and Quality Authority, issued 14 reports following the inspection into hygiene and infection prevention at several hospitals including Connolly. The reports were highly critical, showing some hospitals to be generally unclean. The report said poor hand-washing prac-

tice in hospitals is potentially putting patients at risk of acquiring a hospital infection.

It also reported some immediate serious risks to patients with emergency department patients being put with patients with communicable diseases.

One incident at Connolly saw one patient with a transmissible disease in an emergency department cubicle for 30 hours.

These are the first HIQA hospital hygiene inspection reports since 2010.

Hospitals who performed poorly will be revisited by inspectors within six months.

Five killed on Fingal roads last year Five people were killed on Fingal roads last year, an increase on the number of deaths recorded in 2011.

Statistics from the Road Safety Authority for 2012 show the number of deaths in the Fingal

County Council area was five.

This is an increase of two people in comparison to the year previous.

One of the deceased was a bicycle user, another was a person on a motorbike and three

were car users.

Statistics for the number of people injured in the area in 2012 are unavailable. In 2011, 152 people were injured in road accidents within the Fingal area.

7 February 2013 BLANCH Gazette 3

events A range of things to see and do

Arts and crafts fun at the library The listing for this month’s programme at the Blanchardstown Library is out now with a range of things to see and do.

Junior activities include arts and crafts with Natalia, for children aged seven to 12 years on Tuesday,

February 19 and Thursday, February 26, with both classes taking place at 4pm.

The Parent and Toddler Group meet every Wednesday from 10am to 1pm. Mums, dads and kids are welcome to drop in at any stage of the ses-

sion.

Meanwhile, Europe Direct presents a screening of Discover The European Union on Wednesday, February 13 and Thursday February 14 at 3pm.

The Blanchardstown Area Partnership is host-

ing the adult Learning Festival one-day event on February 28 from 11am until 5pm. It promotes adult learning opportunities in the Dublin 15 area.

Find out more by dropping into the library, or visit their Facebook page.

Support: Youth guarantee the National Youth Council

of Ireland (NYCI) welcomed political support for a “youth guarantee” following a meeting on the scheme recently with Minister for Social Protection Joan Burton. The NYCI has been a long time advocate of a youth guarantee – which would ensure that young people on the Live Register for four months or more will automatically be directed into employment, education or training. Pictured are James Doorley, deputy director, NYCI, Minister Joan Burton and Lloyd Russell-Moyle, European Youth Forum.

Cemetery: council proposes sunday closure

Shock at changes to opening schedule

 laura webb

A proposal to restrict the opening times of the main gate at Mulhuddart Cemetery, which includes its closure on Sundays, has been put on hold pending consultation with local representatives.

Friends and relatives visiting the graveside of loved ones were shocked to see a sign by Fingal County Council erected at the cemetery noting changes to its opening times.

The cemetery is currently accessible through the pedestrian gates, and this access will remain.

However, the council proposed to close the main

gates from 5pm to 8am, Monday to Saturday, but closed all day on Sunday from February 4.

In a statement to the Gazette, a Fingal spokesperson said it was proposed to close the vehicular access to the cemetery on Sundays from February 4 “in an attempt to reduce/eliminate the anti-social behaviour and vandalism of headstones [and] graves.

“However, this proposal has now been ‘deferred’pending consultation and discussion with the elected representatives at the February Services Area Committee meeting.”

Local politicians have

voiced their opposition to the proposals.

“Sundays are an integral part of family schedules when they can visit loved ones which often happens after Mass. This is an issue which will and has upset a significant number of people in Mulhuddart and Blanchardstown,” Cllr David McGuinness (FF) said.

Dublin West Sinn Fein representative Paul Donnelly said he was shocked by the decision.

“I have been in contact with many residents who are deeply upset that they will not get an opportunity to visit the graves of their deceased loved ones

on a Sunday,” he said.

However, he said the sign put up at the cemetery last week, which has since been taken down, was “completely misleading”.

“It leads one to believe that the cemetery will be closed on Sundays… however the small side gate will be open. This small concession is at least somewhat welcome however the limited access to parking facilities due to the fact that the main gate will be locked will create havoc along what is already a very dangerous road,” he added.

While discussions are ongoing, the cemetery will remain open as usual.

4 BLANCH Gazette 7 February 2013

FastNews

Business bootcamp a boost for start-up businesses Start-up businesses in the county recently took part in a business bootcamp to assist them in driving their businesses further into 2013.

Owners of over 35 small start-up businesses based in Fingal attended the intensive two-day residential business bootcamp course, which included training sessions, networking and advice, organised by Fingal County Enterprise Board.

The programme, which was facilitated by QED Training, dealt with areas including starting up a business, how to deal with challenges, how best to use ecommerce and social media for business, as well as providing invaluable networking sessions.

Fingal County Enterprise Board ran seven different business training programmes last year, including a business bootcamp and a national conference for senior entrepreneurs, aimed at people starting their own companies and those in the early stages of running a business. Visit www.fingalceb.ie for information on business training and development programmes they are organising for 2013.

educate together Development in Hansfield welcome

Planning sought for three-storey school A planning application for a new three-storey Educate Together national school with 24 classrooms at Hansfield has been lodged.

On January 22, Fingal County Council received the application from the Department of Education to build the national school in the townlands of Hansfield and Phibblestown.

The development consists of a three-storey building with 24 classrooms, including a special needs unit, with associated car parking, bus drop-off and three ball courts.

Mulhuddart councillor David McGuinness (FF) said the latest addition to Dublin West was “very welcome”.

“As chairperson of neighbour-

ing secondary school, Colaiste Pobal Setanta, I strongly support this development and encourage all relevant stakeholders to deliver this new primary school as soon as possible,” concluded McGuinness.

Dublin West TD Patrick Nulty (Lab) said it was a “boost to the local community”.

“It is essential that we cater for

school places for the long-term development of Dublin 15 as the most recent census showed we have a growing population with many young families. The Educate Together ethos has been very successful in other areas and I have no doubt it will provide a positive learning environment for pupils who attend this school when completed,” he said.

event: gathering

Castle hosts official launch

Join the weekly book club and get reading at Blanchardstown Library Blanchardstown Library are encouraging people to rediscover the wonders of reading by joining their weekly book club. On Wednesday, February 13 at 11am the club will be discussing Too Much Happiness by Alice Munro, while the Thursday morning club will meet on February 14 at 11am to discuss What We TalkAbout When We TalkAbout Anne Frank by Nathan Englander.

The Dublin 15 theatre is up against four other venues for the award

Draiocht nominated for best live venue  laura webb

Dr aiocht Theatre has been nominated for one of the best Dublin music venues in the IMRO Live Music Venue of the Year 2012.

The Dublin 15 theatre is up against four other venues, which include Bord Gais Energy Theatre, the O2, the Grand Social and the Olympia Theatre, for the award.

The awards celebrate those who work in Ireland’s live music venues and who provide the public with an exceptional live music experience.

This year, the awards take place on Tuesday, February 26, at the IMRO

HQ in Dublin.

The local venue has been nominated with some major players in the music venue business, but locals can help Draiocht take home the award by voting before February 19.

Dublin 15 people can log on to w w w. surveymonkey.com/s/ imrovenueawards and participate in the voting process.

Commenting on their nomination, Emer McGowan, director at Draiocht, said: “Draiocht is thrilled to be shortlisted for the second time for the IMRO Live Music Venue of the Year award.

“Nominations are from

IMRO’s 8,000 members and are based on general ambience, staging, sound, lighting, diversity of music programmed, artist relations and venue promotion.

“It is great to know that the artists we programme enjoy their experience here so much that they would nominate us alongside some very wellknown and established music venues.

“Draiocht has always been committed to providing the best experience for all artists that we work with and wish to thank them for giving Draiocht audiences so many brilliant and memorable nights. We will continue

to programme artists of the highest calibre facilitating our audiences see the best in their local venue,” she added.

Venues were judged the core elements that make for a great live music venue, and most importantly, the staff and management of each venue.

Victor Finn, chief executive of IMRO, said: “A strong live music circuit is the lifeblood of a vibrant music industry. It’s important that we acknowledge those venue owners and festival promoters whose commitment, passion and support for live music enables music creators to continue making the music we all enjoy.”

The official launch of The Gathering in Fingal took place earlier this week.

Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Cian O’Callaghan (Lab), Fingal county manager David O’Connor and representatives from the main flagship events attended a photo-shoot at the historic Swords Castle to mark The Gathering events across Fingal.

Three of the flagship events taking place in the county include a medieval festival at Swords Castle on March 17 as part of the St Patrick’s Day festivities in Swords, a summer solstice session at the Seamus Ennis Cultural Centre from June 22 to 23, and the 2013 J24 Sailing World Championships at Howth which will run from August 22 to 30, with another 23 local events across Fingal also being funded by the Failte Ireland Community Fund.

Mayor O’Callaghan said: “The Gathering initiative is wonderful opportunity for communities and clubs throughout the country to create unique events and bring international visitors to Ireland.”

For more information, log on to www.fingalcoco. ie and www.thegatheringireland.com.

7 February 2013 BLANCH Gazette 5

education: transport Scheme to encourage use of light rail tram system guidelines Children will go free on Luas for next three months released

Book rental schemes backed  laura webb

A gu i de l i n e f o r developing textbook rental schemes in schools, which can save parents up to 80% on the cost of new books, has been launched.

Last week, Minister for Education Ruairi Quinn launched the new guidelines to provide practical advice to primary and post-primary schools on how such a scheme can be established and operated.

Meanwhile, a special guide for parents is also being published, to inform them of how the schemes operate and how parents can help schools to establish and run them.

Speaking at the launch, Minister Quinn said: “All of us who are parents know how expensive textbooks can be and what a burden it places on already hard-pressed families at the start of every school year.”

The publication of the guidelines follows a survey of schools by the Department’s inspectorate last year. This had a 99% response rate at primary level, and showed that 76% of primary schools operate a book rental scheme.

At second level, the response rate was lower, at 44%. Of those which did respond, 88% of those in the VEC sector and 73% of those in the community and comprehensive sector operated a book rental scheme.

Minister Quinn continued: “These results show that we have a good foundation to build on across the country…

If [this is the case], it will result in substantial savings for parents.”

Children are set to travel free on the Luas every weekend for the next three months in one of a range of new fare initiatives the National Transport Authority is introducing this year.

From now until the end

of April 2013, two children may travel free of charge with each adult who has a valid Luas adult ticket.

The offerwill be in place for the St Patrick’s Day celebrations and Easter holidays. It covers both Luas lines and is available

on Saturdays, Sundays and bank holidays.

Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Leo Varadkar said: “This is a generous offer for families and represents really good value. With the Gathering Ireland 2013 already

under way, it’s also likely to be popular with tourists and I will be encouraging the tourism authorities to promote it with visitors. The offer will apply to anyone travelling with both regular tickets and Leap cards.”

6 BLANCH Gazette 7 February 2013

gazetteGALLERIES

Youngsters get some lessons in applying first aid from members of St John’s Ambulance. Pictures: Conor O’Mearain

on call: St John’s Ambulance hold their regional inspections

T

Gintare Kersulyte

HE cadets of the St John’s Ambulance Divisions in Blanchardstown, Ongar and Castleknock gathered recently for their regional inspections. St John’s Ambulance in Ireland has been at the forefront of providing first aid and services for over 100 years.

Members of our division are dedicated to a simple vision; that everyone should have immediate access to first aid no matter where they are or what they are doing at the onset of illness or injury.

Alan Morgan and Louise Donnery. Pictures: Ronan O’Sullivan

James O’Higgins Norman

Robert McGrath

Karl Wilkins Vitalija Remeikaite

Pupils try their hand at first aid These ladies enjoyed a girly night out

Evalina Taraseviciene and Margarita Kozodojeva

7 February 2013 BLANCH Gazette 7

Have you seen yourself in the Gazette? Buy photos online from only â‚Ź6.99 at www.gazettephotos.com

Maria Giurgila

Lorraine Brady and Ian Sheerch

in step: ALL THE RIGHT MOVES AT CHASERS

Rocking all night for Pieta House C

HASERS Nightclub in Dunboyne recently hosted a special fundraising night in aid of Pieta House, the centre for the prevention of self-harm or suicide. Last year alone, more than 3,000 people came to Pieta House for help.

Spin 103.8 and DJ John Gibbons played some of the best tunes to get everyone in the mood to show off their best moves on the dance floor.

All proceeds raised from the entry fee and the raffle went towards the Lucan-based charity.

Darren Sutton

Gillian Lennox with the sisters, Nicole and Julia Krabiell

Laurence Roach

8 BLANCH Gazette 7 February 2013

Local society Blanch supporters host second event in Castleknock on April 5

Golf classic aims to fund Connolly Hospital diabetic unit  laura webb

Golf enthusiasts can enjoy their favourite sport while helping to raise vital funds for their local hospital by taking part in a golf classic organised by the Blanchardstown Hospital Society.

The local society is hosting

FastNews

SciFest student entries sought STUDENTS are being encouraged to take part in this year’s SciFest and put their knowledge of science to the test.

Science, technology and maths projects are being showcased at a series of one day science fairs held in the 14 regional Institutes of Technologies, including ITB. The winners from each science fair will go on to compete at the national final in October.

Log on to www. scifest.ie for more information and to download an entry form.

Completed entry forms must be submitted to the organisers

by Friday, March 8.

Valentine’s at Blanchardstown VISITORS to the Blanchardstown Centre on Valentine’s Day could be in with a chance to win a €1,000 shopping spree.

On February 14, the popular shopping centre is offering one lucky person a shopping spree.

Radio station Q102 will be at the centre from 1 to 5pm giving out hourly clues and prizes.

There will also be more Valentine’s activities on the day, including face painting and free hugs!

its second fundraising golf classic at the Castleknock Golf Club on April 5. Money raised on the night is in aid of the Diabetic Day Centre at Connolly Hospital.

Last year’s classic raised €12,500 and all proceeds were donated to the Stroke Unit Department of the Eld-

erly in Connolly Hospital.

The proceeds were used to upgrade a rehabilitation room for the elderly patients.

Raffle

Other fundraising efforts in aid of the Diabetic Day Centre include a raffle and a race night later in the year.

Individuals or companies interested in the golf classic can support it through a number of options. A company logo at the tee box, plus entry of a team with a two-course meal and prize giving in the clubhouse afterwards is €450. A team of four, including a two-course meal

is €300, the company logo at the tee box sponsorship costs €250. Sponsorship of the longest drive costs €200, and sponsorship of nearest the pin is €150. You can also support by donating prizes, or just making a contribution.

Anyone interested in taking part in the golf classic

can contact Shay Smyth on 087 367 9377 or email shaysmyth1@gmail.com There will also be a raffle as part of the fundraising effort and tickets will be available at stalls in Blanchardstown Shopping Centre and the Concourse, Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown.

Allendale: delay in ramp repair ‘should have been resolved months ago’

Angry residents demand council action on estate  laura webb lwebb@gazettegroup.com

A CALL has been made for the local council to use bonds held from a developer for repair work on a damaged ramp that is stalling the process of it being taken in charge by the council because the developer hasn’t fixed it.

Residents at Allendale Estate have voiced their anger over a badly broken ramp that is causing damage to their cars and also to people visiting the area.

T he estate, which is owned by Menolly Homes, has not been taken in charge by the council yet because this repair work has not been complete.

According to local TD Patrick Nulty (Lab), the developer has not been in touch with the council since last October.

He is now calling on the council to use the bonds held by them from the developer to carry out the necessary repair work and finally take the estate in charge.

Frustrated Speaking to the Gazette he said: “Residents in the area are getting very frustrated because their cars are being damaged by the

ramp.

“Menolly have not been in touch since October, and that is the only thing delaying taking the estate in charge.

“I think we need to highlight it again, and put a bit of pressure on them.

“Menolly have been responsible for a large part of the Ongar development and it seems ridiculous that they are dragging their feet on such a small issue.

“The ramp itself is causing very significant damage to cars from residents in the estate and visitors; there is huge frustration that t h i s wo r k c a n ’t b e undertaken.

“It is my view that the local council needs to put huge pressure on Menolly and to use the bond that is there with the council, and to actual do the repair themselves and take the estate in charge,” said Nulty.

“I think this should have been resolved months ago.

Representations “Numerous representations from myself and other local representatives have been made asking for progress to

Labour TD Patrick Nulty wants the Allendale estate taken in charge

be made on taken Allendale in charge.

“It seems absolutely farcical that a whole estate can effectively held to ransom over one ramp and if Menolly are not prepared to act responsibly to undertake repairs so the council can take it in charge, then the council should

do the repairs through the bonds that are there and available to them.

“Menolly have not responded to the council and it shows a distinct lack of respect for the residents who purchased homes in Allendale and who are waiting for progress to be made on this issue,

which in my view should have been resolved some time ago.”

In response, a spokeswoman for Fingal County Council said the issue is due to be discussed at the area committee meeting scheduled for Thursday, February 7.

“However, she went on to say that she can

confirm that on foot of a recommendation f r o m t h e C o u n c i l ’s Inspectorate Division, Fingal County Council is allowing four weeks for the ramp situation to be “rectified”; after that time there will be a “bond sequester request, if the situation is not rectified.”

7 February 2013 BLANCH Gazette 9

Crime Witnesses sought to acid attack

Development: Club aiming to come up with five-year plan

St Peregrine’s look for public input MEMBERS of St Peregrine’s GAA Club are being urged to attend a club planning workshop and open forum, as they prepare to launch a five year club development plan.

The club is undertaking a full review of structures within the club.

The coaching development officer, John Lowndes, will be overseeing the set-up of focus groups and implementation of this plan.

To ensure success, he is looking for input from all members of the club.

Open forum The club’s planning workshop and open

forum will take place on Monday, February 11 at 8pm in the club sports hall.

According to a spokesman for the club, this workshop will be “a marker for the future running of the club” but he said it will only work with “full participation by all members”.

“We need to hear what you think has been going well within the club, but more importantly what can be done to improve it,” said Lowndes.

Areas being covered on the night, juvenile coaching and games d e ve l o p m e n t , a d u l t games development, club structures, finances and fundraising, facili-

ties, communication and PR, club identity in community and any other relevant headings that may arise from group discussions on the night.

“This forum is open to all full club members, social members, adult and minor players, existing sponsors and future sponsors, local school principals and teachers, local politicians and any other friends of St Peregrine’s who are committed to driving the club forward.

“Attend on the night and let yourself be heard as all suggestions and comments will be recorded and acted on,” the spokesman continued.

Roll it there: Gaybo stops by Dunboyne Castle Hotel to help a local charity Dunboyne Castle Hotel hosted legendary broadcaster Gay Byrne’s

solo show last Thursday evening. Described by one reviewer as “a comedy master class”, a sell-out crowd of over 400 people enjoyed a great evening of stories, memories, songs and laughter.

RTE’s Mary Kennedy came on at the end as a surprise guest to award fabulous prizes for the show’s raffle - which raised funds for two great charities Aoibheann’s Pink Tie, helping children with cancer and their families, and the local Youth Suicide Prevention Ireland.

GARDAI are appealing for witnesses to come forward following a suspected acid attack.

In the early hours of Monday morning, February 4, a man was standing outside his home in Hollystown at around 6am. He was approached by a man who threw liquid in his face.

The victim was then taken to Connolly Hospital were he was transferred to St James Hospital in the city centre.

Gardai are now investigating the attack and are appealing for anyone with information to contact the Blanchardstown Garda Station on 01 666 7000 or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.

10 blanch gazette 7 February 2013

gazetteGALLERY

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Cathy O’Connor

Sean Munsanje

Eva McCarthy and Ciara O’Brien Kris Tykier, Rafe Spall and Dan Mazer at the premiere of ‘I Give It a Year’

Marriage is a funny business M

ANY people turned out for the Irish premiere of ‘I Give It a Year’ at Cineworld on Parnell Street.

The film was created by Borat writer Dan Mazer and features stars including Anna Faris, Simon Baker and Stephen Merchant. It is a comedic portrayal of

a newly-wed couple’s experience of their first year of marriage, and the many trials that come with it. The film looks at their first nine months of marriage, and how the couple have doubts about whether they really are destined to be together or not.

Robert Rhattigan and Sarah Murphy

7 February 2013 Gazette 11

schools P14

asdfsdaf businessP27 P16

dublinlife

Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week, as well as the latest from our schools

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Gazette

diary P12

RDS: sencity a multi-sensory music event

Come fill up your senses at dance extravaganza A unique music and dance experience is being held this weekend at the RDS. Sencity is a multi-sensory music event with a difference as the whole show is created by talented young people with hearing difficulties.

The Dublin Sencity show will feature a team of 16 deaf and hard-ofhearing young people from the capital who were trained for the show

by the Sencity organisers from Holland.

This music and dance extravaganza first originated in the Netherlands and is unusual in that the audience has all its senses explored and stimulated in time with the music.

Not only do you hear the music or feel the rhythm but you see, smell and taste the whole experience too.

Sencity attempts to capture the music’s pas-

sion and spirit through many different sensory channels. On stage there will be expressive sign dancers translating lyrics and emotions into Irish Sign Language, video projections, light effects, taste sensations, hairdressers and an incredible vibrating sense dance floor which responds to the music’s bass frequency.

Live artists on the night include Signmark, Kormac’s Big Band, The

Wonder Villains, Torann Drums and Gavxmas.

As well as this multisensory action, there will also be laser and light shows turning the music into colours, shapes and pictures.

Sencity will take place on Saturday, February 9 in the RDS Concert Hall from 9am until 3pm. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster for €17.50, or can be purchased at the door for €24.

Sencity is a multi-sensory music event with a difference as the whole show is created by talented young people with hearing difficulties

Gazette

12 Gazette 7 February 2013

dublinlife

diary

Show the nation what you’ve got

For any talented musical acts looking for a chance to show the nation what they’ve got, following in the footsteps of the likes of Imelda May and Boyzone could be just the boost they need to make it big.

The Late Late Show is launching a brand new initiative giving emerging Irish acts a chance to appear on the biggest show on Irish television.

In recent years artists such as The Coronas, Maverick Sabre and The Strypes have used the show as a launch pad for their careers.

Now this opportunity has been made even more accessible for

emerging talent.

To apply, email a YouTube link of one song to thelatelateshowcase@rte.ie with a brief description and contact details.

Bram Stoker Experience A brand new museum dedicated to all things Dracula opened its doors to the public last week in Clontarf, the home of Irish author Bram Stoker.

The museum takes you on a visual journey through the life and times of the Victorian Gothic writer.

There is live narration by historian Dennis McIntyre and a display of first editions of the

classic novel and notes in Stoker’s own hand.

Every Thursday night at 9pm is film night at the museum, with tickets costing €5 and booking is essential.

T h e B r a m S t o ke r Museum is located at 225 Clontar f Road, Dublin 3 and is open from 10am until 4.30pm.

To book tickets, contact Dennis McIntyre on 086 236 4829.

anti-cyber bullying talks This month, An Garda Siochana will deliver a series of anti-cyber bullying talks in Dublin schools to promote Safer Internet Day, a global internet safety initiative.

The Talks In Schools

programme will be delivered during the month of February to secondary school pupils throughout the country.

It will promote positive interventions by witnesses of online bullying situations and appropriate coping strategies for victims.

The programme also aims to help students to understand the impact that cyber bullying can have on different people, and to recognise that cyber bullying is not acceptable.

Lists of local schools that will be taking part in the programme are available from your local Garda Division. For more information, see www. watchyourspace.ie

The Late Late Show is giving talented musicians a chance to appear on television where Imelda May (above) and Boyzone hit it big

7 February 2013 Gazette 13

FEATURE Skillnets training fund

eu directive: changeover begins

Driving licence credit-card style cruises into view Wave goodbye to the pink paper and say hello to the new credit card style driving licence, which was officially launched last week.

Two new drivers were the first people to be presented with the new driving licence card by Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Leo Varakdar last week.

Almost 6,000 new plastic card licences have been issued to drivers this week following the changeover from paper licences to plastic card licences on

January 19.

The new plastic card licence is one aspect of an EU Directive to upgrade and standardise all licences across the EU. Previously, as many as 100 different types of licence were in operation throughout Europe.

According to Minister Varadkar, the new licence is more secure and more convenient than the existing paper version.

“It will help to eliminate licence fraud, ensure that motorists are properly trained and licensed,

and keep unlicensed drivers off our roads. It’s more modern and more convenient. It’s also recognised throughout the EU, so Irish road users will enjoy the benefits and protections which drivers already have in other EU countries.

“The RSA and the Motor Tax Offices have done sterling work in making the new application process as easy as possible for motorists. I want to thank the RSA for their hard work, and for meeting the EU dead-

The new-look licence is more secure and more convenient than the old version

line on schedule, without requiring additional Exchequer funding,” he added.

Noel Brett, chief executive of the Road Safety Authority, said: “Since the new licence card was introduced, we have received some really positive feedback from people

who have been among the first to receive one.

“Among the ben efits they see in the new licence is that it’s more durable, modern and easier to carry around, as well as being recognised throughout the EU. Because it cannot be easily replicated, it will also

act as a key road safety tool to keep those who are illegally driving a vehicle off our roads.”

For details on the new licence, to download an application form or for more information the changes to some driver licensing rules, log on to www.ndls.ie

Private sector companies in Dublin are being encouraged to apply to a new training fund, announced this week by Skillnets. The €500,000 fund is open for applications until April 30.

Groups of companies must join together to form a network to apply for funding, with groups permitted to be formed on a geographical or sectoral basis, once member companies have identified common training needs amongst their employees.

A seminar for Dublin businesses interested in applying for funding to Skillnets will take place on March 12 at 8am in the Clarion Hotel, Liffey Valley.

Visit www.skillnets.ie.

14 Gazette 7 February 2013

Gazette

dublinlife schools schoolLife My week at the Gazette work experience: a step into the real world

Get involved with our new Gazette schools pages

As part of the relaunch of the Dublin Gazette Newspapers, we are reaching out to all the schools in our catchment areas to become a closer part of our community than ever before.

Schools are the beating hearts of communities, one of the last places around which a community can gather.

We are calling on budding writers and photographers from all of our schools to help fill the pages and, in order to encourage the next generation of journalists and snappers to get involved, we are partnering with Harvey Norman to present the Dublin Gazette Newspapers’ Cub Reporter and Cub Photographer of the Year awards.

For more details, contact rheigh@gazettegroup.com, or on 01 601 0240.

 Jen Maguire Donohoe

Colaiste Brid, Clondalkin

As part of the Fifth Year LCVP module, every student must leave the safe cocoon of school for a week and experience life in “the real world”. The thoughts of a full week off school sounded ideal, but first I had to find somewhere to go.

In school, I was told that I should go somewhere that interests me and I should think long and hard about my future career choices before applying anywhere. Having never worked before, this all seemed like a daunt-

ing task but surprisingly it wasn’t. I sent an email of enquiry to the Gazette and they promptly emailed me with good news – I had my first work experience placement.

My first day of work experience arrived and I was both an xious and delighted, anxious because the thoughts of being in a professional work environment was slightly terrifying. I, of course, had nothing to be fearful of. I quickly got used to the constant tapping of keyboards and the terrifyingly loud phone calls that admittedly made me jump out

Jennifer Maguire Donohoe : Fifth year student at Colaiste Brid in Clondalkin

of my skin the first few times I heard the shrilling ringing tone.

I learned how to “be a journalist”. This involved

grasping how to convert a press release into an article that, I as a reader, would be interested in and mastering the art

of gaining information from time-restrained sources.

I also visited a local school ceremony and learned how to recognise what the key points of a news story should be. I always thought of journalism as a solitary career, but after being in the Gazette, I realised that it takes more than one person to make a story come alive.

Not only did the Gazette show me what I could be doing in a few years if I did pursue journalism, but I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the office.

Overall, I think for my first venture into the real world, the Gazette was the perfect place to go.

SCHOOl

Matters p romote yo u r e v e n ts

CONTACT US WITH YOUR NEWS

6010240

7 February 2013 Gazette 15

Gazette

16 Gazette 7 February 2013

dublinlife

initiative: developing healthcare solutions

Q&A

€15,000 opportunity for digital entrepreneurs

Garret o’neill, general manager

Exceeding expectations at the Crowne Plaza Garret O’Neill, originally from Galway City worked in the hotel industry from the age of 15 where he started out as a waiter in the Jameson Hotel in Salthill. From there, he decided that a career in the hotel industry was for him. He graduated with a degree in hotel management from GMIT. Having spent some time in Frankfurt and the Black Forest in Germany, he returned to Galway where he held

the position of senior manager in the Corrib Great Southern Hotel.

In 2008, he joined the pre-opening team as the deputy general manager at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Blanchardstown. Shortly after opening he was promoted to general manager of the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Dundalk.

In 2011, he returned to the Crowne Plaza in Blanchardstown as the general manager.

How long have you been in business?

want and deliver it. We put them at the very heart of everything we do. We have a great team here who possess a genuine interest in our guests. They constantly deliver a warm welcome and exceptional service.

evolving to suit our guests’ needs. We aim to exceed expectations by taking guests by surprise – going beyond what they expect, so that they stay with us again and recommend us to others.

What makes your business successful?

What do you offer your clients that differs from your competitors?

How has the recession impacted your business?

The Crowne Plaza Hotel, DublinBlanchardstown opened its doors on the October 1, 2008, so we will be celebrating our fifth birthday later this year!

“The customer is always right!” We listen to what our clients

business

We are constantly

As with all businesses in Ireland, the recession has certainly made things more challenging.

People became a lot more value conscious and demanded quality for their money. We ensured that we provided this, delivering an exceptional product for great value.

What law or regulation would you change overnight to help your business?

I would like to see the lowered rate of VAT extended to 2014 and beyond.

It was an initiative welcomed by the whole hospitality sector and our consumers alike.

Digital entrepreneurs have been offered the chance to secure €15,000 in funding, as well as free office space and enterprise development support thanks to a new digital health project.

Connected Health – a joint initiative between the Digital Hub Development Agency (DHDA) and St James’s Hospital – is aimed at supporting digital technology companies to develop solutions to common healthcare challenges.

According to Dr Stephen Brennan, chief strategy officer with the DHDA, Connected Health is the culmination of over a year of planning and collaboration between staff at St James’s Hospital and The Digital Hub. “We’re calling on digital entrepreneurs and innovators to submit proposals, outlining how they could resolve the challenges identified by St James’s staff.

“Successful companies will not only receive seed funding and free office space at The Digital Hub. “They will also be able

Dr Gerard Boyle, principle physicist at St James’s Hospital; Dorothy Ellen White, project manager, Connected Health; Dr Stephen Brennan, chief strategy officer with the Digital Hub Development Agency and Dr David Robinson, consultant physician in geriatric medicine

to work directly with clinicians at St James’s, drawing on their expertise and on the data being captured by the hospital in developing new digital solutions.

“In addition, The Digital Hub will provide free enterprise development supports for successful applicants,” said Dr Brennan who added that the problems that were being worked on had been identified by staff in the hospitals.

“The beauty of this approach is that entre-

preneurs will be developing solutions for real-life problems that have been identified by healthcare professionals.

“This means that the market for potential solutions is already defined, a big help to companies looking to invest in product and service development.”

The first call for proposals from Connected Health will focus on local asset mapping.

Digital enterprises have until February 15 to submit applications out-

lining how they would develop a website and mobile app using local data to document all health-related services in the vicinity of St James’s Hospital.

One successful applicant will be selected to receive the €15,000 seed funding and package of support mechanisms.

For further information, and to apply online, go to: http://www.thedigitalhub.com/move-to-thehub/connected-health/ apply-to-participate-inlamp-here/1206.

There is no shame in ‘signing on’ Unemployment is a great leveller. We’ve all heard the stories about solicitors in the dole queue and architects working in McDonald’s.

Many professional people are resistant to signing on.

This is particularly true of men.

I’m encountering an increasing number of men in the 40-60plus age bracket who are finding themselves in financial straits because they’re basically too proud to ask for State help. Their savings are running out; creditors are stepping up the pressure; they’re borrowing from friends and family – often without the knowledge of their spouses. Something has to give.

In the minds of many men, signing on carries a stigma. Whereas previously, saying that you’d “never asked the State for anything” was worn as a badge of honour; these days – depending on your circumstances – it can be downright foolhardy.

Going to the social welfare office for the first time can be daunting, but it’s just like any other bureaucratic process. You have to provide them with the correct information in a timely and responsible manner. If you are overly anxious about going, bring a family member or friend with you.

Times have changed. If you are doing your best to obtain work, being in receipt of a temporary weekly payment does not make you a scrounger or a waster.

Give yourself some breathing space, there’s no shame in it anymore.  Contact Rachael at hello@thecareerhub.ie or visit www. thecareerhub.ie. Rachael Kilgallon is a FETAC qualified career coach and founder of The Career Hub.

Valentine’s Day



Gazette

7 February 2013 Gazette 17

The essential guide to finding that extra special something for that special someone

l val enti n e’ s day i d e as l

30 steps to love

WANT to make your love life more romantic? Even the most ardent lover can use romantic inspiration from time to time, especially when the pressure’s on with St Valentine’s day just around the corner.

Whether you’re about to go on a romantic getaway, or you are going to be spending time alone together at home, adding some romantic touches will help to put both of you in a cheerful mood and bring you closer together.

Try some of these 30 romantic ideas and ignite romance with your loved one. And these ideas aren’t confined to February 14!

1. Get away from it all 2. Celebrate an anniversary — any anniversary — with an anniversary trip 3. Expect the best — but get it for less, especially in these tough times 4. If you’re going away together for a romantic weekend, request the honeymoon suite 5. Schedule a romantic dinner — and make it a surprise 6. Tell her how beautiful she is or how handsome he looks 7. Turn off the TV in your room; better yet, don’t turn it on at all. Better still, throw it out of the room altogether!

8. Make a big deal — a really big deal — out of a birthday 9. Go window shopping, then circle back and buy something your better

half admired

sion to celebrate

candles

where and indulge

10. If you’re on a romantic

15. Inspired by a hotel

19. Pack a picnic, and

25. Watch a romantic film

break, ask the concierge

room? Redecorate your

don’t forget the wine

or DVD

to plan the day for you

bed at home with new

20. Enjoy a barefoot din-

26. Take better travel

11.Use the Do Not Disturb

sheets and pillows to

ner on the beach

pictures — and frame

sign — and bring it home

match the decor you

21. Go out just for dessert

your favourites

with you

enjoyed there

22. Find out what long-

27. Sleep out all night on

12.Share a secret no one

16. Steal a kiss in a public

married couples do to

the beach

else knows

place

keep it real

28. Take an overnight

13. Write a love letter and

17. Count the stars

23. Pack a book of classic

train and ride in a com-

seal it with a love stamp

together

love poems

partment just for two

14. Give roses when

18. Save energy: Shut

24. Bring chocolate, any

29. Propose

there’s no special occa-

off the lights and light

time, in any form, any-

30. Elope

Take the time to make your love life even more romantic

Valentine’s Day

GAZETTE

18 GAZETTE 7 February 2013

Miss Selfridge NOW €39

Miss Selfridge €85

Awear €25

Miss Selfridge €65

Valentine’s

Dress to impress this  LAURA WEBB

CUPID is getting ready for his busiest day of the year, and so are women across Dublin.

This week, Gazette Style is on the look-out for the perfect dress that will impress lovers old or new. Don’t be shy when it comes to picking a dress for date night this Valentine’s Day. Be bold and beautiful with red. Whether you want to go all out with a statement red dress, or be a little more demure with a hint of red mixed in, now is the time to get adventurous and play with red on Valentine’s Day.

NEXT €52

Miss Selfridge €85

Dunnes Stores €22

7 February 2013 Gazette 19

Say ‘I will’ at Carton House

l tem pt i n g fo o d s l

Romantic menu at Royal Marine

HEAD chef Darrin Parrish, at the Royal Marine Hotel, has developed a special Valentine’s Day menu, using some unique and special foods appropriate to the spirit of the day.

Here are some fascinating facts about some of the components of the dishes on offer, which make up the sensuous seductive offering at the Dun Laoghaire hotel.

Oysters: This seafood speciality was documented by the Romans in the second century to have

aphrodisiac qualities.

tion — if you dare.

Nutmeg: This spice is highly prized by Chinese women as an aphrodisiac, and it is said that large quantities can produce a hallucinogenic effect.

Broccoli: Everyone’s favourite vegetable is said to increase virility.

Truff les: The musky scent of this delicacy is said to stimulate and sensitise the skin to touch.

Liquorice: This sweet is said to enhance love, more so in women.

Avocado: The Aztecs called the avocado tree “ahuacuati”. Chef Parrish suggests that you ask your waiter for transla-

Fennel: This was used as a libido enhancement by the Egyptians.

If all this is whetting your appetite, than call the Royal Marine Hotel on 01 230 0030 for a reservation, or see www. royalmarine.ie for more information.

Gazette

The essential guide to finding that extra special something for that special someone

Animal attraction: Love is in the air love is in the air at Dublin Zoo as it gets ready to open its doors

early for an exclusive Valentine Date for couples everywhere.

From 8am on Saturday and Sunday, February 16 and 17, the zoo is offering couples a unique alternative date at one of the most interesting destinations in Dublin, with special keeper talks on the courtship, breeding and the exotic mating rituals of some of the animals.

There are a limited number of 100 tickets, which cost €60, available to ensure that the experience is truly romantic. For more information, log on to www.dublinzoo.ie.

Carton House is inviting couples to say “I will” this Valentine’s Day on their romantic grounds.

T he venue, which was shortlisted for 2012 Leinster Wedding Venue of the Year, has created the Carton House Perfect Proposal package which can include overnight accommodation, use of the Shell Cottage which overlooks the River Rye, or a romantic boat ride, champagne and flowers.

For more information on the Perfect Proposal package, visit www.cartonhouse.com or call 01 505 2000.

Gazette

20 Gazette 7 February 2013

OUT&ABOUT

HOMES

HOME: ideal standard’s style predictions

Key to a great home is a great bathroom A crucial element to a great home is a great bathroom, and Brussels-based bathroom solution company, Ideal Standard, are intent on helping people create their ideal salle de bain.

One of Europe’s leading bathroom brands, Ideal Standard’s goal is stated to be “to create a life space that reflects personalised well-being”.

The brand follows three main philosophies: design, functionality and innovation, and Ideal Standard international designer Robin Levien is certain that those values will still apply throughout 2013 when he recently gave his bathroom predictions for this year.

“Whilst these straitened times won’t be changing soon, it’s not all bad. We are learning to value what’s really important in life - family, friends, good food and a comfortable home.

“I see the bathroom as a key element of our homes over the coming years.

“Over one-in-four people use their bathroom as a place to relax and this trend will continue to become more and more popular throughout 2013. Luxury bathing

options provide the ultimate way to unwind after a busy day and get some peace and quiet.”

Robin went on to detail the kinds of themes that he expects to see prevalent in bathroom design and fittings this year.

“We will continue to look back to more optimistic times and mid 20th century vintage is where it’s at. This will manifest in shapely accessories in the bathroom, a collection of 60s glass vases for example to provide an optimistic note.

“Blocks of colour will brighten up

the bathroom, it’s very easy to fit a sheet of painted plywood for a bath panel then play off the colour with complementary soft elements like towels and bath mats – they don’t all have to be the same colour.

“Besides vintage stylings, we are wanting to get back to nature. This is a great trend for the bathroom as ceramics already have a natural quality that provides a perfect foil for softer natural materials like wood.

“We are celebrating the handmade again too so things don’t have to be perfect, the pristine quality of the pieces of ceramic in the bathroom can be complemented by hand thrown porcelain accessories.”

Robin also suggests that you take the natural theme to its logical extreme in your bathroom redesign.

“What better place to grow some plants than the bathroom, plenty of moisture to keep them happy. There are some very clever plant pots that hang upside down from the ceiling.

This is a great solution for using the unused space above the bath and you can lie in the bath under an Amazonian rainforest canopy.”

Over one-in-four people use their bathroom as a place to relax

7 February 2013 Gazette 21

Gazette

MUSIC interVIEW: a great voice returns to Ireland

It’s got to be perfect for singer Eddi Reader Eddi Reader once sang that “It’s got to be perfect...”, and she is bringing her perfect voice and folk stylings back to Ireland later this month.

Gazette Music caught up with Eddi as she prepared to take the stage at the BBC Radio 2 British Folk Awards, held in Glasgow last week, and she was thrilled and looking forward to sharing the stage with one of her inspirations.

“I’ll be on stage singing Caledonia with my

 ROB heigh rheigh@gazettegroup.com

heroine, Barbara Dickson. She’s a remarkable inspiration to lassies like me growing up, she was one of the few women standing on a stage with a microphone and a guitar. She was the queen of the folk scene, so it will

be great to hear her singing tonight.”

Bringing the show back to Ireland, Eddi will be honing some of the songs that may form the foundations of her upcoming album, which she will be going into the studio to record in the coming months, a process she is looking forward to.

“I’ve been working on the new album, spending the last two years collecting ideas, and it’s time to go into the studio now.

I’ve booked the time and

it’ll all work out. There’s a point when you need to invest yourself and get involved in the record.

The songs will dictate the sound – you don’t know sometimes where they’ll be going, until they start talking to you.”

Eddi says that one of the things she enjoys the most about performing is connecting with an audience on a personal level.

“What I do has to be in the moment, and I enjoy it so much. I’m delighted when someone comes up

Eddi Reader is bringing her perfect voice and folk stylings back to Ireland

to me after a show saying that they were blown away when they only knew me from Perfect and Fairground Attraction.”

Asked about what she likes the most about coming to perform in Ireland, Eddi was unequivo-

cal about the reasons.

“The fact that the audience listening are as musical as me. They know what they like, and they share the moments with me. Irish audiences are very open people in a way that I recognise from where I come from, that

people are musical and sing songs at the drop of a hat.”

Eddi brings her Irish tour to the Pavilion Theatre in Dun Laoghaire on February 15, Draiocht in Blanchardstown on February 15, and Whelan’s on February 20.

Gazette

22 gazette 7 February 2013

OUT&ABOUT

CINEMA

Theatre

THE pavilioN THEATRE 01 231 2929 Beckett X 3

GODOT Theatre Company London are back with three more short Beckett plays on Friday and Saturday, February 8 and 9 at 8.15pm in the Pavilion. Tickets are priced at €17/€15.

Draiocht 01 885 2622 Singlehood

ARE you single? Have you never been single? Do you wish you were single? If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this is the show for you.

Singlehood is a funny and uplifting theatre documentary exploring the art of being single.

Renowned for her documentary theatre practice, Una McKevitt in collaboration with writer David Coffey (Dan & Becs, Fade St) interviewed over 50 singletons to bring their raw and revealing stories to the stage.

February 14, tickets €16/€12.

Mill THEATRE 01 296 9340 David O’Doherty

Life is a marathon, not a sprint. But it is a sort of marathon that you really have to sprint. And there are hurdles and weights to lift. And swimming. And shooting. Life is basically The Olympics. But at the end you don’t get a medal, you die. Catch David on Saturday, February 16, tickets are priced at €18/€14.

Even in the rain, Denzel is the coolest man on the planet

review: with washington at the controls, this movie soars

Denzel takes off I have something of a confession, dear readers.

In the year or so that I have been writing movie reviews for The Gazette, I have never particularly taken to one aspect of the place; the five-star movie rating system.

It eliminates grey areas and leaves reviews to define something as either awful, mediocre, average, great or excellent.

This system panders to a modern need to have everything fit into a neatly labelled box and removes nuance.

And, as is so often the case in my life, it has taken Denzel Washington to show me the way.

It is Flight that has me pondering this existential gap in the human ability to judge relative merits.

For, it is not an average film nor is it a great film.

In the aforementioned

Film of the Week: Flight h h h h (15) 138 mins Director: Robert Zemeckis Starring: Denzel Washington, Kelly Reilly, Bruce Greenwood, Don Cheadle, John Goodman

 Paul Hosford phosford@gazettegroup.com

five-star system, three is too little, four is too generous.

Which is why I am implementing the half star, the seven out of 10 in this case.

Because, this is definitely a film worth seeing.

Is it a life-changer?

Not really. Will it feature in many best of the year lists? Unlikely.

Will it entertain you for just north of two hours?

Almost certainly.

The bulk of the entertainment is carried in the first 40 minutes, as we get acquainted with Washington’s pilot Whip Whitaker.

By get acquainted I

OUR VERDICT: WHILE it is good to see Zemeckis back doing live action, after many years trying to make motion-capture relevant, he falls just short of a great comeback. The actual crash sequences are excellent, but after that the story struggles to find a consistent tone and relies on a lazily written, albeit wildly fun, sidekick in John Goodman and a relationship that feels just too convenient for the tone of the first hour.

mean see him do drugs and have sex in a cheap motel room a couple of hours before taking control of a plane carrying 112 people.

So first impressions aren’t great, but when the mess hits the fan, only one person keeps their cool.

As a storm, a nervous co-pilot and his own drunkeness conspire against him, Whitaker manages to guide the plan out of a perilous situation into a field.

First anninted a hero, Whitaker must face pub-

lic and political scrutiny into his condition on the day of the crash.

It is here that the film feels strained.

At 138 minutes long, it is probably bloated by about 20 minutes and the weight given to the various relationships in the film is out of kilter.

Why spend so long on a marriage of convenience with fellow addict Kelly Reilly (who is excellent, notwithstanding), and leave us so bereft of screen time with Whip’s son and ex wife?

W hen confronting

these relationships, Jason Gatins script, which has been nominated for an Oscar, falls a little short.

But, what it does exceptionally well is pose an important question; why do we always need a hero?

Here is a man who took charge of a plane drunk, yet the audience wants him to prevail because of how well he landed the plane and, let’s be honest, just how goddamn cool he is. It is an interesting moral conundrum that will have many in disagreement afterwards.

Of course, this is Denzel’s movie.

He is on screen for almost every scene and absolutely dominates every last one, playing Whitaker with arrogance, coolness and vulnerability. His Oscar nomination is richly deserved and his performance more than reason enough to give Flight a whirl.

7 February 2013 BLANCH gazette 23

Gazette

GAMING a spellbinding playstation 3 game: Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch

BYTES&PIECES kicking 4K into the public eye

It’s magical ONCE again, the PlayStation 3 lays claim to a beautiful title as a platform-exclusive game, in the fascinating new title, Ni No Kuni: Wrath of the White Witch.

An innovative tie-in with famed Japanese anime company, Studio Ghibli, and acclaimed role-playing game (RPG) masters Level-5, Wrath tells the story of Oliver, a young boy whose mother has just passed away.

The upset boy’s tears bring a toy doll to life, as Drippy, the King of the Fairies (apparently a

Welsh spirit) takes pity on Oliver, resolving to help him with his determination to bring his dead mother back.

It isn’t long before the two new friends are wandering through a parallel universe, with Oliver developing magic spells and special abilities along the way, as well as mastering the use of Familiars in battle.

So, in essence, Wrath is presented as a vast RPG with standard magic/ Pokemon-ish undertones, making it a challenging yet fun tale with some

Japan to broadcast 2014 World Cup in super-fidelity ALTHOUGH it’s yet to register in the public consciousness in the same way that HD, or even Blu-Ray, has, 4K – image fidelity that is several times clearer than even HD – could well be the future of all our viewing. (Yes, yes, we all know that some people said that about 3D televisions, too.) Now, Japan is set to broadcast several 2014 World Cup matches in 4K – an on-the-ball move by the tech-savvy nation, or something of an own goal? We’ll find out, in 2014 ...

a portable new office

Microsoft updates suite to suite modern tastes OFFICE, Microsoft’s stalwart software collection familiar to bazillions of people everywhere, has been updated, with its rejigged suite having a particular relevancy for touch-screen devices. As to be expected, you shouldn’t expect to see Office appearing on rival devices, but it seems like a logical facility for Microsoft’s Surface tablet, as well as being a welcome, if not overdue, update of the classic suite.

 shane dillon sdillon@gazettegroup.com

unusual themes of loss, acceptance, courage and so on.

However, what makes it of particular note – apart from its great score – is how beautiful it looks, with the Studio Ghibli connection making Wrath one of the best-looking games out there, and easily one to recommend.

an appealing move?

Apple unveils 128GB iPad

Despite being a child, Oliver has enough courage and heart to put many an adult to shame, as he searches for a way to bring his deceased mother back to life, and makes new friends along the way

FOR those of you with a need to cram an awful lot of content onto your tablets, Apple have unveiled a 128GB iPad, which is enough to hold – oh, lots and lots of stuff, given that it’s double the storage space of what was previously available. However, the natural price hike you’ll face for such extra space may not be the most tempting of things for cash-strapped consumers to sink their teeth into.

24 BLANCH gazette 7 February 2013

Gazette

& OUT ABOUT road

Citroen C-Zero: comfortable, quick, quiet and cheap to run

NOISE

Ford Fiesta sold every two minutes in Europe in 2012 Consumers bought a new Ford Fiesta every two minutes on average last year, making it the bestselling small car in Europe, according to automotive data intelligence provider JATO Dynamics.

Last year, Ford sold 953,174 cars in the 30 European markets monitored by JATO, including 306,405 Fiestas. The Fiesta also was the best-selling B-car (sub-compact) globally for the first nine months of 2012, with more than 560,000 Fiestas sold worldwide, according to the latest Polk new vehicle registration data.

Ford has sold more than 15 million Fiestas worldwide since the vehicle first went into production in 1976.

MOTORS

The Fiesta now has been the top-selling small car in Europe for three out of the past four years.

The new Fiesta also offers MyKey, a Fordexclusive technology that allows parents to encourage safer driving and limit their teenager’s exposure to risk at the wheel.

Ford also has equipped new Fiesta with Ford SYNC, a voice-activated in-car connectivity system, and SYNC emergency assistance, which directly connects vehicle occupants to local emergency services operators after an accident.

The new 2013 Fiesta is now available from Ford dealers across Dublin. For more details, see: www.dub linford.ie.

It’s an electric time for the motor industry n Cormac Curtis

One of the loudest voices in electric vehicles this week claimed that there is revolution under way in the motoring world.

In an interview with Liz Claman at Fox Business in America, Renault-Nissan chief executive Carlos Ghosn said the moment of the electric car is now.

“It is a revolution,” he said. Despite the fact that the Renault Leaf fell way short of its ambitious 2012 sales target, Ghosn says the future of the auto industry is all about fuelefficient cars.

The C-Zero is comfortable, quick, quiet and cheap to run.

It has an accurate display of how long a distance it will cover, and that adjusts itself if you have the air conditioning on or off or any other features that might drain the battery.

It produces zero emissions, is almost completely silent in operation and now benefits from up to almost €10,000 of grants including a VRT rebate and SEAI electric vehicle grant – very attractive facts all round.

Using advanced new technology, the car has high energ y density lithium-ion batteries to provide greater range.

It can be charged at any time, whatever the initial charge state of the battery, via an ordinary domestic 13amp electricity socket.

It is nimble and lively, boasting a tiny turning circle of just 9m. It does offer decent enough room, accommodation up to for four people plus some luggage space.

At the C-Zero’s heart is a compact, ultra-efficient permanent magnet synchronous 49kW electric motor, which has a peak

The C-Zero has lively acceleration in urban operation, it can hold its own on main roads or motorways, with a maximum speed of 128km

torque rating of 180Nm. Thanks to the electric motor’s intrinsic ability to provide peak torque from standstill, the C-Zero has lively acceleration in urban operation – and out on the open road, it can hold its own on main roads or motorways, with a maximum speed of 128km.

With its advanced battery technology and the regenerative capability of its electric motor during

braking, the C-Zero provides an extended range of up to 93 miles Research has shown that the average daily urban journey is only 23 miles, so it can fit into the everyday lives of many busy families.

Using standard 13 amp domestic electricity supply, the C-Zero can be fully charged in around eight hours, so this operation can be carried out overnight or while parked

at work. There is also an alternative quick charge system, which enables up to 80% of the C-Zero’s battery charge to be replenished in just 30 minutes.

The C-Zero has stateof-the-art safety and security features as well as comfort and convenience features including leather steering wheel and leather gear knob.

The sticker price is €25,975.

7 February 2013 BLANCH GAZETTE 25

CANARY ISLANDS: A LITTLE EXOTIC OPULENCE ON THE ISLAND OF LANZAROTE

Embracing all things volcanic in Playa Blanca With Thomas Cook Ireland flying direct to Lanzarote from Dublin all year round, the popular Canary Island is one destination we’re hoping to set our sights on this summer.

Recently, our reporter DAVE PHILLIPS opted for a little exotic opulence on the island of Lanzarote and will be certainly returning this year…

FOR those of a migratory mind, Lanzarote is an ideal refuge from the chill during the winter, as well as the summer months, but the weather isn’t the only draw here.

Distinct from the other Canary Islands, Lanzarote has always cultivated and maintained a gentler approach to tourism and development. Much of this is directly linked to César Manrique, an artist and architect who had great influence in the development of the island for tourism.

The complete lack of billboards, the absence of any high-rise structures and the uniform simplicity of colours used to paint walls and windows of homes across the island all contribute towards the sense of calmness that Lanzarote seems to exude.

On a recent trip, I spent a day with Marcelo from Canary Trekking, a tour company that specialises in taking small

groups trekking across the island’s volcanic landscape. The coarse lapilli – pea-sized fragments of volcanic rock ejected during eruptions – which crunches underfoot, has transformed the landscape into otherworldly shades of black, grey, and orange.

A trip through Timanfaya National Park showcases some of the most impressive volcanic peaks and craters. The ground here is fragmented, jutting at odd angles, and in several places still very hot. Layers of magma at a shallow depth release intense heat through small crevices, or “chimneys” around the park.

Some of these are so hot you could cook food on them.

That’s exactly what you’ll find on offer at the El Diablo restaurant perched high in the centre of the park. The stunning restaurant, designed

by Manrique, offers an unparalleled view of the

park, and probably one of the only chances you’ll have to try geo-thermally cooked chicken.

If you’re looking to completely embrace the volcanic theme, you can stay at Hotel Volcan, at Playa Blanca. Volcan is a beautiful five-star hotel with generous rooms and an impressive façade incorporating a large replica volcano. The hotel overlooks a harbour and the Playa Blanca marina, which can be accessed through the hotel gardens.

Taking the gentle ethos of the island to heart, the hotel serves as a sanctuary. With spa treatments available and a choice of six pools to lounge in, there’s always plenty to do. During my stay there

Hotel Volcan in Playa Blanca is a five-star hotel with generous rooms and an impressive facade incorporating a large replica volcano

The volcanic landscape of Playa Blanca

was a healthy mix of families and couples. A separate club area at the hotel provides room and relaxation areas exclusively for adults, especially useful perhaps if you’re looking to leave the kids at home.

There are plenty of great places to eat at Playa Blanca, but for something special make the trip to La Era, which serves delicious authentic Canarian food. Given the soil conditions on Lanzarote, it is not surpris-

ing that the local dishes are relatively simple, but we’ve seen from Manrique’s vision, that keeping things simple is by no means a bad thing. Much of Manrique’s work as an artist involved complementing what nature has already provided and the wholehearted extension of that philosophy to tourism and development throughout the island has created a space naturally warm in every sense of the word.

GETTING THERE: LANZAROTE  The five-star Hotel Volcan in

 Prices include flights, transfers

Playa Blanca is available in May

and accommodation.

from €829 pps on a half board basis, or from €2,553 for a family of four

 Call Thomas Cook on (01) 514 0328,

for seven nights.

or go to www.thomascook.ie

GAZETTE

TRAVEL

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XXX UIFXIJUFXJOEIFBMJOHDFOUSF DPN XX planning Notice Fingal County Council We, D & A Gerathy, intend to apply for PERMISSION for development at this site at 13 Huntstown Lawn, Mulhuddart, Dublin 15. The development will consist of the demolition of existing single storey porch and construction of new part single, part two storey extension (5.8sqm at Ground Floor Level & 2.6sqm at First Floor Level) to front of existing two storey semi-detached dwelling house and all associated site works. 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, and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the planning application.

17498

planning Notice Fingal County Council Permission sought for (A.) Demolition of single storey conservatory to the south elevation, (B.) Construction of a single storey extension to the east elevation with velux windows to the south roof, for use as a granny flat which will also incorporate part of the existing kitchen area, (C.)A single storey living room extension to the main house to the south/ west elevation, (D.) Removal of part of the main roof and raising the external walls under with the provision of a new higher roof area – total additional height c.2.161m. New roof area to incorporate habitable bedroom accommodation at first floor level with associated dormer and velux roof windows to front and rear, (E.) Associated elevational revisions including new patio doors to the south, new windows at high level to the east & west. All at Chestnut Cottage, R121, Clonsilla, Dublin 15. For Niall Dolan.This 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 and a submission or observation may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (₏20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application 17514

7 February 2013 BLANCH Gazette 27

gaelic games P31

P27 sportsasdfsdaf awards P28

dublinsport Let the Gazette keep you up to date with all the best local sporting action from around the city as we cover all the stories that matter to you and your community



Gazette

athletics P28

FastSport Glenville refix Beggs’ cup tie:

Sixteen-time world champion Phl “The Power” Taylor will play a special exhibition against Denis Priestly in the Red Cow Moran Hotel on February 17

darts: win the chance to throw a leg against the legendary phil taylor

The Power set to light up the Red Cow at exhibition event HOT on the heels of his record breaking 16th world championships, Phil “The Power” Taylor, the greatest darts player of all time, is set to face off against two time world champion Denis “The Menace” Priestly on Sunday February 17 at the Red Cow Moran Hotel.

The eagerly anticipated event is sure to prove as popular as ever knowing the support of Stoke’s favourite son and the Red Cow are looking forward to hosting the talented tungsten warriors according to their hotel’s Sara Farrell.

“We are extremely excited to see

Phil and Denis in action,” said Farrell.

“There are a lot of people looking forward to the night and with Phil coming off another world championship win, it’s even bigger.

“The Red Cow Moran is well used to putting on top sporting events but, I think the darts is something a little more special – it’s a real people’s sport.

“Every time we have a darts event the crowds turn out in their droves and they really participate in the show and it only helps that Phil and Denis have

such a special relationship with all of the fans.”

The event is to be run in partnership with Pieta House, a suicide awareness group who have close ties with the Moran Hotel Group, with Glen Moran, Limerick’s Man of the Year, walking from Treaty City to Dublin to raise €200,000 for the charity.

“It’s great that we can put on such a good show for the benefit of such a worthy cause and the top fundraisers on the night will be able to play a leg of darts against Phil or Denis.”

GazetteSport is offering a lucky reader the unique opportunity of going toe-totoe with Taylor. All you have to do is answer in 20 words or less, why should you be the lucky person to face world champion Phil Taylor?

To enter, send your answer to competitions@gazettegroup.com. The best answers receive entry to the event and a once in a lifetime opportunity to play against either Taylor; the second best answer will play a leg against Priestly while there are also four pairs of tickets to the event up for grabs.

GLENVILLE’S FAI intermediate cup fourth round tie with Beggsboro has been refixed for Sunday, February 10 in Palmerstown school at 11am following the postponement last week due to the inclement weather.

They are hoping to follow in the footsteps of fellow local sides Phoenix and Bluebell United, both of whom advanced last week.

The former gained revenge on Everton for their defeat last year with John Brophy and Keith Gleeson netting twice while Derek Swan was also on the mark in a 5-0 win.

Bluebell saw off Bandon as Trevor Molloy got the first before Glen Madden grabbed the other to make it 2-0.

c o n ta c t s Acting Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@gazettegroup.com

For more information or to send in news and photos: sport@gazettegroup.com Phone: 01 651 6205

Gazette

28 BLANCH Gazette 7 February 2013

SPORT

DublinGazetteNewspapers

soccer: dublin man to detail his life in football

2013 dublin sports awards january winners

H STARof the MONTH

Dublin Bus are set to feature heavily in Paul O’Brien’s new book Fairplay

james cluskey THE SWORDS tennis club member had a month to remember, claiming a doubles title in Germany before reaching two other ITF Futures event finals. His month was capped off with a Davis Cup call-up which saw Ireland defeat Estonia.

O’Brien hails local soccer’s stories  sport@gazettegroup.com

TEAMof the MONTH H st joseph’s college, lucan THE LUCAN College broke their A championship duck in incredible fashion as they won the junior title just days before landing the biggest honour in the county at senior level, both first time victories as they saw off St MacDara’s and Maryfield, respectively.

AFTER a life in local soccer, Dubliner Paul O’Brien is currently collating some of his favourite memoirs for his upcoming book, Fairplay.

It comes after a long association with the sport in west Dublin, starting off in Ballyfermot as a 17-year-old coach of small-sided games before going on to link up with Palmerstown Rangers, St Pat’s Athletic and Shamrock Rovers over the next 30 years.

Speaking about the book, O’Brien said: “It has been my intention for a long time to have a book published that would highlight and acknowledge the efforts, achievements and talent of local people that I have been fortunate to work with and befriend over the years.

“The book will incorporate my involvement in local five-a-sides, seven-a-sides and league teams and will feature well-known players, personalities, photos along

with testimonials and interviews.”

To this end, he has no shortage of material with the likes of Celtic man Paul Byrne – whose formative years were with Bluebell – League of Ireland stalwart John Cleary who played in Europe with Dundalk before managing Galway United and St Pat’s.

His brother, Mick, meanwhile, provides tales of exciting times at Athlone Town in the mid1970s when he was the goalkeeper for the club in

the UEFA Cup, keeping a clean sheet against Italian giants AC Milan in the first leg of their tie in St Mel’s Park and lining out in the San Siro stadium.

Dublin Bus hero Paul Doyle also lends his local knowledge to the mix for what looks set to be a fine publication.

The author is seeking sponsorship and donations from people in the area to help finalise the project. If you would like to get in contact and support O’Brien, call 085 285 6402.

DSDAC teenager continues rise on national stage  sport@gazettegroup.com

UCD’s Ciara Everard takes a tumble as Siofra Cleirigh-Buttner (18) closes the gap in the 800m

DSDAC’S Siofra Cleirigh Buttner finished third at the women’s 800m race at the Woodie’s DIY AAI Games in the new Athlone IT indoor arena last week in a fantastic time of 2.05.26.

It was a big personal best for her, bettering Ciara Mageean’s Irish junior record of 2.07.79. It came in a dramatic race as long time leader Ciara Everard hit the deck just metres from the line, and a fraction of a second later Laura Crowe also came tumbling down to leave Germany’s

Jana Hartman the winner in 2.04.14 from Siobhan Eviston in 2.04.35.

It came on a weekend that produced a long list of new personal bests and one new record.

David Sharpe’s 1986 GB junior 1,500m indoor record went by the new Athlone boards when Matthew McLaughlin ran the race of his life to win in a time of 3.42.87, and in the process smashed his own best by taking almost five seconds off his outdoor best.

Kelly Proper showed she is getting back into the swing of

things when she won the 60m in a time of 7.55 from clubmate Niamh Whelan in 7.57.

She made it a double when she won the long jump with 6.04m to make her doubly happy in this amazing arena. Whelan later won the 20m in 24.43 from Fingallians’ Louise Kiernan in 24.76.

Brian Gregan was never threatened in the 400m, cruising through 200m in 21.9 and then holding his form brilliantly to cross the line in 46.07 to smash his previous best of 46.66 and record one of the fastest 400m

times in the world this year.

His time is also well inside the standard for the European Indoor championships, and is the fastest time ever run for an indoors 400m in Ireland. The previous best was held by Grenada’s Alleyne Fancique who clocked 46.19 in Belfast in 2006.

Olympian Robert Heffernan put in another amazing performance when he won the 3,000m walk in a time of 11.13.92, his second fastest time ever for the distance behind his 11.10.02 Irish record achieved in Cardiff 11 years ago.

7 February 2013 BLANCH Gazette 29

Gazette

30 BLANCH gazette 7 February 2013

SPORT

FastSport

soccer: dunboyne sink saints with last-gasp winner

Benedict’s to host big basketball blitz ST BENEDICT’S NS in Ongar are gearing up for the first ever Dublin 15 basketball blitz which they will use to showcase their fantastic indoor and outdoor facilities and give children a great sporting outlet while also bringing the community together.

Schools from Huntstown, Hartstown, Blanchardstown, Littlepace and Castleknock, among others, have signed up for the competition that teachers, and coaches Russell Coleman and Philip Clarke, have organised with local business man Barry Dennis sponsoring the event.

“We always want to give our students a variety of sports to choose from,” said Coleman. “A lot of the children wouldn’t come from cultures that primarily play soccer or Gaelic football, so there was a lot of interest when we put the idea out there.

“There is a lot of interest and the kids now have a great outlet through the sport and they’re putting in a lot of work in preparation for the blitz.

“We’re aiming to bring the whole Dublin 15 community together through basketball with 12 schools coming from all over the area to play in the blitz. The competition will take place over four days in March and we hope we can continue to grow the numbers over the next couple of years.

“Initially, it didn’t look like the idea could go ahead because of some of the cuts that were made, but then Barry Dennis of the Fruit People came in and it has made everything a reality.

“Not only has he put forward funds to get St Benedict’s jerseys, but he is also backing the winning trophy and the medals for the blitz and providing three pieces of fruit and a bottle of water for each child over the four days,” said the teacher and coach.

“Russell was telling me he was organising this and I thought it was a great idea. We’re all about promoting health and well being and I’m delighted to be a part of it,” said Dennis.

The school’s principal Noreen Behan also shared her delight with the project.

“I think both of the teachers have done amazingly well in organising the event and networking between the schools. We’re looking forward to the games beginning in the hall and on our outdoor courts,” Behan added.

Dunboyne’s LSL Sunday Senior 1A side retained their interest in the promotion places with last weekend’s victory

Connellan confounds Joey’s lsl sunday senior 1a

Dunboyne AFC St Joseph’s Boys  carl duffy

3 2

sport@gazettegroup.com

NIALL Connellan’s dramatic injury time header sealed all three points for Dunboyne last Sunday morning, leaving St Joseph’s Boys shellshocked.

Both sides were looking to bounce from disappointing results and this was clearly evident in the opening stages.

After 10 minutes, the home side were rewarded for their efforts when a Joey’s clearance was

gathered by Ciaran Carr, whose lofted pass was met by Dunboyne captain Terry McAuley whose run went untracked as he rose highest to power home a header.

The game continued to be an open affair for the remainder of the first half, with the visitors unlucky not to equalise when McAuley’s slip allowed winger Luke McWilliams to charge in on goal but his shot was superbly saved by Justin O’Neill.

Moments later, McWilliams played a short corner to the edge of the box towards Kevin Thur-

seventh heaven Hartstown Huntstown produce goal frenzy the newly formed Hartstown/Huntstown

U-17B NDSL side produced one of the comebacks of the season as they recovered from 4-1 down to beat St Ita’s Portrane 7-4 recently.

They followed up with another seven-goal haul against Dunboyne despite initially throwing away a 2-0 lead to be level at half-time. But the side run up a 7-2 win with Sean McCann scoring a hat trick while Ian Bonnie, Andy Moisen, Craig Behan and Ibrahima Camara were also on the mark.

wachter who blasted a shot off the upright.

Joseph’s got the equalising goal their play deserved minutes before half-time when McWilliams outjumped his marker and buried an unstoppable header past O’Neill.

Dunboyne boss Vernon McAllorum rallied his team at half time and at times they were utterly dominant with midfield pair Carr and Colin Richardson taking control, linking up superbly Keith O’Neill and Connellan on several occasions only to find a well organised Joseph’s defence difficult

to break down.

T he south Dublin side’s resilience was eventually breached when Richardson won a challenge in midfield and cut a pass behind the defence towards Connellan, who raced in on goal and unselfishly set up O’Neill who was able to side foot a simple finish despite the protests of the Joseph’s players who felt there was a foul in the build up to the goal and a hint of offside.

The last 10 minutes proved to be dramatic with both sides counter attacking.

The home side looked to have done enough when McWilliams’ precise corner kick was converted home by the glancing header of centre back Colm Harmon and looked to have rescued a valuable point for his team.

Dunboyne rallied quickly though and forced a Joey’s into conceding a corner which was subsequently taken

by Carr and hit precisely towards Connellan who jumped highest to steer his header into the roof of the net and ensure a vital win for Dunboyne in their promotion bid.

7 February 2013 BLANCH gazette 31

Gazette

Peregrine’s hurlers undone at final hurdle  sport@gazettegroup.com

AFTER an incredible C championship season, St Peregrine’s minor hurlers came out second best last Sunday when they took in Thomas Davis for the silverware, 4-16 to 1-1.

There wasn’t much between the two sides at half time, with a Mark Sweeney goal only leav-

ing the Blanch side five points behind at the break, 1-6 to 1-1.

However, the second half was a very different affair. Peregrine’s came close through another Sweeney effort five minutes into the second stanza but a Davis save and move up the pitch saw them bank goal before moving into another

gear.

Though inter county star Eric Lowndes, Sweeney and Michael Duda tried to keep the Peregrine’s light burning, Davis had a lot of momentum and went on to win by a big margin.

Manager Killian Byrnes said afterwards it was a tough loss to take.

“I’m not trying to say

we deserved to win, we certainly didn’t,” he said.

“But I think the final score suggests that we were slaughtered and that isn’t true either.

“We came up against a really good side and I think the difference really showed in the second half, but it was an amazing achievement for the lads to get to the final.”

gaelic games: unique backdrop for u-14 trip

Club Noticeboard st brigid’s 2013 memberships are now due. Any member with issues regarding membership can contact our club secretary Mary O’Connor at maryaoc@ hotmail.com.

Friday in Myo’s is €14,400.

Important message regarding vehicle safety now on the club website.

Well done to our male (Paddy, Philly, Shane and Alan) and female (Elaine,

The club are hosting Strictly Come

Noelle and Deirdre) players on great

Dancing on Saturday, February 16 in

NFL league and Walsh Cup wins with

the clubhouse with its own members

Dublin over the weekend.

taking to the dance floor. Tickets are

Our junior ladies footballers are

sold out; however, special TV screens

on the lookout for a new manager/

will be erected in the club bar for

coach. If interested, email info@

those who missed out on a ticket.

stbrigidsgaa.com. Please see the St

The club nursery for four- to sevenyear-olds continues every Saturday

Brigid’s GAA coaching development programme for 2013 on website.

morning from 9.30am-11am. New

Congratulations to our two Scor

members and families welcome. Con-

Sinsir quiz teams who came second

tact Paul on 087 9154748 or see web-

and third in the Dublin competition on

site for more info.

Wednesday.

New adult members, male and

A big welcome to Damian Smith, the

female are also welcome. Please email

new coordinator of our high perform-

info@stbrigidsgaa.com.

ance centre, more info on classes and

The jackpot for the club lotto this

the gym to follow this week.

naomh peregrine

St Brigid’s U-14 footballers played Easky as the waves crashed in the background last weekend

St Brigid’s Feile teams enjoy Atlantic setting  sport@gazettegroup.com

S T BR IGI D ’ S F e i l e hopefuls fine-tuned their skills in the unique surrounds of Easky, Co Sligo recently, as they look forward to their bid to defend the club’s dual All-Ireland crown in April and May this year.

Last year, the St Brigid’s U-14s Feile teams in football and hurling enjoyed unprecedented success winning both the county and national Feile finals.

Last weekend, this year’s vintage and their parents travelled to

Easky playing both hurling and football against the Easkey GAA’s U-14 team as they began their preparations.

In wet and wild conditions on a pitch located on the edge of the Atlantic, Brigid’s won their hurling match and narrowly lost the football match by one point.

The spectacle of the waves breaking on the shore almost equalled the passion of play in the Easky pitch.

After two games on the first day, the mud covered heroes retired to the hotel, located

in the seaside town of Enniscrone, for hot s h owe r s a n d a h o t meal.

The following morning after breakfast the team enjoyed a bracing walk on the beach at Enniscrone.

On view from the beach that morning were four large cargo ships sheltering from the Atlantic storms in Killala Bay. Two of the club’s brave souls stripped to their swimming trunks and went for a swim before returning to Easky for two further matches before their return to

Dublin 15.

Easky will return the favour in June this year when they will travel to Russell Park for a similar series of matches.

St Brigid’s, meanwhile, will host a coffee morning at the clubhouse on Saturday, February 9 from 9am to 1.30pm as part of the club’s fundraising efforts for the 2013 campaign.

Admission is €3 and includes coffee and biscuits while there will also be home-baked goods, cup cakes and tray bakes for sale at the event.

HARD luck to our minor hurlers in

bers drawn were 10, 17 18 and 28. Next

defeat in the championship final.

week’s jackpot is €2,200.

Best of luck to all teams whose

The executive committee would

season starts this weekend. The

like to request that members will-

senior footballers kick off their cup

ing to act as mentors with the vari-

campaign with a trip to St Pat’s,

ous club minor and adult hurling,

Donabate, and our junior footballers

football, camogie and ladies football

are home to St Brigid’s, both at 11am.

teams and also on the various club

Membership is now due, please con-

sub-committees for the 2013 season

tact your team mentor.

The club lotto was not won, num-

contact the club secretary for full details.

erin go bragh PLEASE note that the club annual membership and facilities fee is now overdue for the 2013 season.

This is the club’s lifeline so please ensure that you pay it as soon as

and 27.

U-9s training every Wednesday evening at 7pm in MMH school. This is for children born in 2004; we are looking for new members as always..

possible. There are several pay-

Contact Wayne McGlynn 087 6966

ment plans that can be agreed with

275 or wayne.mcglynn@gmail.com

the club. Contact Sinead Edgely on

for further details.

086 8891551 or email edgelys@gmail. com.

There was no winner of last week’s club; numbers drawn were 8, 14, 20

Hard luck to our first team footballers who were beaten on Sunday against St Brendan’s in a pre-season friendly game in Grangegorman.

westmanstown/garda THE new season gets under way next

7.30pm at Westmanstown, Wednes-

Sunday, February 10 when the inter-

days at 7pm in Tyrrelstown gym and

mediates have their first match in the

Saturday morning at 9am in West-

Joy Cup at home in Westmanstown at

manstown. New members welcome.

11am against Ballymun Kickhams.

The Gaels Nursery (five to seven

The junior season gets under way

years) runs every Saturday from

the following Sunday, February 17 with

10am. Sessions are held indoors in

a first match at home to St Margaret’s

Crunch Fitness, Westmanstown for

in the Parsons Cup at 11am.

the duration of the winter. Ask for

Training continues at Westmanstown on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm. Ladies training is on Mondays at

Geraldine Cullotty.

For the latest information, visit www. westmanstowngaels.ie.

GazetteSPORT all of your blanch sports coverage from page 27-31

basketball blitz: St Benedict’s looking forward to community coming together for tournament P30

February 7, 2013

Fight the power: Win a chance to play a leg against Phil Taylor P27

Kennedy riding high Clonsilla man Jack Kennedy is looking forward to life with new team Rivamoto

Despite a couple of heart-breaking finishes in the past couple of years, the local motorbike star is set for life on the World Supersport series  peter carroll

sport@gazettegroup.com

JACK Kennedy’s last two years have been a rollercoaster ride for everyone who follows the top racing prospect but he is looking forward to going further down the right track in the coming weeks.

From near career ending crashes in his first year in British Supersport only to come back and win in the final meeting of the season at the famous Brand’s Hatch circuit, Kennedy was within a handful of laps reach from the championship in his second year before he suffered his first mechanical breakdown of the season.

However, the signature “Jack attacks” and his aggressive style didn’t go unnoticed and he has picked up a top ride for the 2013 season.

The Clonsilla man signed up with Rivamoto ahead of the World Supersport season which is due to start on the weekend of Febraury 16 and 17, the natural progression for someone who showed such dominance in the British platform.

The question of whether Kennedy will be up at the top of the pile again with his step up in class was answered in his times around Jerez last week when the Irishman banked quicker times than one of World Supersport’s front runners Kenan Sofuoglu.

“We’ve been to Spain and Portugal and I really feel like I’ve gelled with the new team.

“It’s quite similar to the set-up at Martrain, it’s very professional but there’s a lot more travelling to be done in this classification.

“I suppose the main difference is being on a Honda this year, there’s a lot more electronics on board to play with.

“Honda has been the dominant engine in World Supersport so I’ll be out there looking for podiums again next year,” said Kennedy.

As for the possibility of getting himself in battles with Sofuoglu, who is known for his fearless approach, the 24-year-old Dub is relishing the thought of such action and

claims he won’t change his approach at all.

It’s very exciting even thinking about those little battles.

“The only way to win them is to give as good as you get and never back down because that’s when you get hurt,” said the Blanchardstown native.

“The team isn’t putting any pressure on me and they aren’t asking for a specific finish at the end of the year, but I always want to be at the top and that’s what I’ll be aiming for.

“I just want to really impress in World Supersport and I’d like to see what I can do over this year and next year, but eventually I’d love to test myself in World Superbikes.”