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castleknock • Blakestown • Hartstown • Tyrrelstown • Laurel Lodge • Corduff • Mulhuddart • Ongar

INSIDE: Actor Shaun Williamson’s songs in an Elvis musical might leave you All Shook Up P16

Football:

Brigid’s Furlong on Dublin’s semi against Armagh Page 31

Soccer:

Mochta’s land late strike to deny Glenville Page 30

Homeless families find bugs in hotel  Keith Bellew

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ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES....................... 8 DUBLIN LIFE....................11 OUT&ABOUT...................17 CLASSIFIEDS.................26 SPORT............................28

people: Walkinstown woman breaks a record with English Channel swim P15

Deputy Ruth Coppinger (SP) has called for inspections of all hotels that are being paid public money to accommodate homeless families, after a D15 family showed her video footage of cockroaches in the room in which they were staying.

She said she recently held a meeting with 10 local families who are living in homeless accommodation and all reported bed wetting and even soiling by their children due to the stress

of being homeless.

“How much is being paid by Dublin City Council to ‘hotels’ who ignore complaints about cockroaches?” she asked.

A spokesperson from the Dublin Region Homeless Executive claimed inspections were carried out within emergency accommodation, that all complaints were followed up and providers were instructed to rectify concerns.

Full Story on Page 2

Little bit of magic: Alex finds his inner builder in Beag at Draiocht alex Dooley let his imagination

run free as he used cardboard boxes to build his very own house when he took part in Beag at Draiocht. Beag is a little event that has a huge focus on the arts for the very young. Draiocht was,

for one day, magically transformed into a big space for an adventure through story, visual arts, music and dance. Children were invited to explore the little spaces that big people don’t usually see.

Picture: Stephen Fleming

2 BLANCH Gazette 3 September 2015

homeless families Cockroaches found in bedroom

‘Shocking’ video leads to calls for hotel inspections Deput y Ruth Coppinger (SP) has called for inspections of all hotels being paid public money to accommodate homeless families, after a local family showed her video footage of cockroaches in the room in which they were staying.

She has uploaded the video to her Facebook page in order to highlight the conditions many families are living in. She said that this has led to the contraction of infections in many cases.

“I’m horrified having seen video evidence of cockroaches in the bedroom and shower of a

 keith bellew kbellew@dublingazette.com

family in a Dublin hotel receiving taxpayers’ money over a long period. How much is being paid by Dublin City Council to ‘hotels’ who ignore complaints about cockroaches? What sort of hotel in this century doesn’t even provide a TV in rooms? Why is a kettle too much to ask for?” she said.

She went on to say that she recently held a meeting in her constituency office in Blanchardstown with 10 local homeless families.

“Some are in better conditions than others but all report bedwetting and even soiling by their children due to stress of being homeless.

Infections of impetigo, eczema and lice are widespread in some accommodation centres. Children’s physical and mental wellbeing and their ability to access an education is clearly unimportant,” she said.

She intends to ask Dublin City Council a number of questions including: how much they have paid to the premises where these cockroaches were recorded; whether they will carry out unannounced inspections; whether they will allow outsiders or media in to view all premises; and where they will safely reaccommodate families.

“I will be assisting homeless families in calling a meeting in Dublin West shortly, followed by further action to demand: no evictions; rent controls now; the release of all Nama hotels, housing and lands; and public investment to build thousands of council homes,” she said, and asked: “When is this Government going to act on the housing emergency?”

Speaking to The Gazette, chief executive Pat Doyle of the Peter McVerry Trust, pointed out that in 2014 the group trust called for more attention to be paid to the impact that inappropriate accommodation was having on families and children in particular.

“The local authorities are under huge pressure to try and find places for people to stay and are in very difficult position.

What everyone wants to

Homeless families have reported bed-wetting and even soiling by their children due to the stress of being homeless. Inset: A local family has reported cockroaches in the room in which they were staying

see is action on rents and action on fast track housing solutions. At the end of the day the first thing a homeless person needs is a home.”

A spokesperson from the Department of Environment said: “Some €4bn is available to spend in this area. Within this, the combined funding total for the Dublin local authorities comes to over €500m. As part of the delivery under this €500m programme for Dublin, €117m was allocated to the four Dublin local authorities on May 5 in respect of 19 build projects, which will see the development of 566 new units of accommodation.”

A spokesperson from the Dublin Region Homeless Executive responded saying: “It is important to clarify that inspections are carried out within emergency

Apology In an article headlined “No litter is ever picked up here” (August 25, 2015), the Blanchardstown Gazette wrongly implied that refuse complained about locally came from the Huntstown Community Centre. We apologise for this error and wish to clarify that the centre is not responsible.

accommodation and there is in place a regional ‘facilities management team’ that are tasked with this important function.

All complaints made in

respect of standards are followed up and providers are instructed to rectify concerns where standards fall short of what is expected.”

3 September 2015 BLANCH Gazette 3

Park

issues: family disgusted to find used condom in local playground

Family day out a big hit

Council upkeep of Ongar slammed  Keith Bellew

A family in Ongar were disgusted recently when, upon bringing their child to the local playground they discovered a used condom.

Cllr David McGuinness (Ind) said that this incident is an illustration of the wider probl e m o f u p ke e p a n d maintenance in Ongar due to the fact that Fingal County Council is unable to take the area in charge.

The council previously said it would cost around €1.8m to bring Ongar Village up to a standard to allow it to be taken in charge as there were issues in relation to the deterio-

ration of the buildings, the fabric of the roads, and road markings on the Main Street of the village. Much of these issues are the result of the use of building materials which contained pyrite.

T he cost of these works is normally the responsibility of the d e ve l o p e r, b u t t h e developer (Manor Park Homes) went into receivership. The council has a planning bond for the village valued at €3m and this bond is now with a UK insurance company with whom the developer took out its policy.

The council is now pursuing the matter through the courts.

Cllr McGuinness said that a lot of good work went on in Ongar, such as a clean up every Saturday morning, but the area needed to be taken in charge as there were too many serious issues to be addressed.

“The residents in Ongar have had enough at this stage, their roads are in a terrible state, the speed ramps into their village are disgraceful, and the fact that the council is going to court to try and get the €3m bond back shows the disaster that the residents there face.

“For me it was a new low when a family went into the playground to find used contraceptives on the ground.”

Three stars: Having fun learning all aspects of the performing arts

starcamps Summer camps ran a fantastic week in Scoil Bhride Cailini Blanchardstown this summer. The camp, which caters for four- to 13-year-old boys and girls, introduces children to all aspects of the performing arts while embracing the improvement of confidence and self-esteem. The children worked on songs from Disney to the American Authors, scenes including Toy Story and Annie, and danced to Taylor Swift, Bruno Mars and Pharrell. The week also featured movie making and film workshops. Pictured are Aliga Murphy, Rebecca Spratt and Ethan Smyth.

Picture: Stephen Fleming

Locals turned out in droves for a free Blanchardstown Family Fun Day hosted by Fingal County Council at Millennium Park on Sunday, August 30.

There was lots to do for all the family from old standards such as face-painting, bouncy castles, and slides to not so standard additions like crazy golf, formula fun go karts, carousels and obstacle courses.

Families were also treated to live music from a number of bands on the live stage over the course of the four-hour event.

Fingal County Council regularly hosts family fun days in the area.

For more information on upcoming fun days visit: www.fingal.ie

4 BLANCH Gazette 3 September 2015

Connolly Hospital to host an array of events

Celebrating our physiotherapists  Keith Bellew

Connolly Hospital will host an array of events to celebrate World Physiotherapy Day on September 8, 2015.

This year the theme is Fulfilling Potential, emphasising physical therapists’ roles in suppor ting people with

long-term health conditions or disabilities achieve their goals, fulfil their potential and participate fully in society.

Information stands on the various areas within physiotherapy, cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, falls prevention advice for older adults and how to man-

age common sporting injuries, will be hosted within the hospital.

There will also be information on how to exercise within a safe manner in the local area and Connolly staff will be promoting staff exercise with their staff pedometer challenge on the day. Teams of

four staff members will be counting their daily step count through the use of pedometers and competing amongst their peers for prizes.

A recent survey conducted by the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists has highlighted the lack of regular exercise and

knowledge amongst the general public on exercise guidelines. In light of this, Connolly staff are planning a survey of staff members on their daily travel and exercise habits in order to see how they compare to the survey results.

For more information visit www.iscp.ie

don’sdublin Dublin Castle – part of Irish life since the time of the Vikings It has played a part in Irish life for centuries and Dublin Castle had its origins back in Viking times.

It was originally settled on the high ground close to the Poddle and Liffey rivers and provided an excellent defence.

With the Norman invasion in 1169, however, the old structure was demolished and a more permanent building was erected. King Henry II implemented this phase, which was completed in 1230 and was the beginning of the castle as we know it today.

The Poddle was diverted underground and its water used to fill the moat that surrounded the fortress. Typical of Norman design, there was a tower at each corner and the Record Tower (1228) is the only surviving one.

Over time many other buildings were added, especially in the Georgian period. The Treasury Building in the lower yard, the first purpose-built office space in Dublin, was completed in 1714. In the upper yard, the Bedford Tower, named for the Duke of Bedford who was then Lord Lieutenant of Ireland, was constructed in the 1750s.

And it was from here in July 1907 that one of the most infamous events in the Castle’s history took place when the Irish crown jewels were stolen on the eve of the visit of King Edward VII. They have never been recovered.

As the centre of British power, it was often challenged with it coming under attack during Robert Emmet’s short-lived rising in 1803 and Easter 1916.

British power ceased on the January 16, 1922 when Michael Collins took possession on behalf of the new Irish Free State.

In the upper yard are the State Rooms originally constructed for the Lord Lieutenant’s personal accommodation and entertainment.

Nowadays, these lavishly furnished rooms – St Patrick’s Hall, Throne Room, State Drawing Room and State Corridor – are used for Government engagements including the inauguration of presidents and State visit ceremonies.

Don Cameron

www.donsdublin. wordpress.com

Dublin Castle originated back in Viking times and was originally settled on the high ground close to the Poddle and Liffey rivers

C O M M E R C I A L F E AT U R E

3 September 2015 BLANCH GAZETTE 5

Babies BABIES R US, MAKING BUYING FOR BABY EASY Having a baby is an exciting time but you also want to always do the right thing for your little bundle of joy.

What’s the right cot or the safest car seat? Is it best to start with a pram or a stroller? What brands last longest and will give you best value for money? Babies R Us, part of the new Toys R Us toy store just opened at the Blanchardstown Centre, has the trained staff that can answer these and all other questions about what is best for your baby.

The ‘Disney Frozen’ section with staff members Vanja and Karl

NOW OPENING: ICONIC TOYS R US CHAIN OPENS THIS SATURDAY

Blanchardstown becomes Ireland’s first Toytown In a first for the Republic of Ireland, Blanchardstown Centre sees the opening of the country’s first Toys R Us store this Saturday (5th September) in the Westend Retail Park.

the high levels of service that the iconic brand is famous for the world over.

Customers can expect the --------------------------

Children and adults alike will be thrilled with the stores unique toy range as well as another first, a Babies R Us section that caters for all babies’ needs. There are 1,500 Toys R Us shops worldwide giving the group massive purchasing power and the ability to source

toys and styles that cannot be bought elsewhere along with always being the best value.

Ahead of the opening, which has created 35 new retail jobs for the Blanchardstown area, the new Toys R Us staff have been brought through weeks of training, based around

‘Toys R Us also carry toy ranges unique to the chain, so they can’t be bought anywhere else.’

-------------------------Toys R Us Team to know everything there is to be

The ‘Star Wars’ and ‘Lego’ section with staff members David and Niall

known about the huge range of items carried in the shop - no more guessing what toy is suitable for what child. And of course as part of the worldwide chain shoppers can be sure that probably any toy brand a child has heard of is carried in store.

For better or for worse children can tell what is the most up to date version of a doll or game and unlike other smaller chains Toys R Us always carries only the most recent versions - so no glum faces or disappointed kids when they unwrap their new toys. Toys R Us also carry toy ranges unique to the chain, so they can’t be bought anywhere else.

Parents, grandparents, friends, Aunties and Uncles can all know for sure that a toy bought at Toys R Us is always the ‘right’ one. For example if you haven’t heard of Dinotrux from Dreamworks, well you will and Toys R Us will be where you will find toys based on the Netflix series when

they first become available later this year.

Speaking of parents Toys R Us have laid a special emphasis on being parent friendly zones. That’s why in the UK they have won the prestigious Tommy Parent Friendly Award an unmatched nine times so --------------------------

‘Come on your own, or bring the kids, either way you’re in for the biggest treat since you were a child yourself.’

When we last counted them Babies R Us carries over 68 top brands in all of the very latest designs.

As part of the 1,500 stores worlwide Toys R Us chain, Babies R Us offers value that can’t be beaten given the company’s purchasing power. The new Team at Babies R Us have been through the some rigorous training, so shoppers

can get the best impartial advice no matter what the product.

With hundreds of convenient parking spots at the Westend Retail Park, Blanchardstown Centre it’s the ideal place to see what buggy or stroller will fit in your car boot or to try out what car baby seat you’ll be able to use with ease as your baby grows. It’s part of the company’s policy to make the shopping experience, with or without children in tow, a real pleasure.

That’s why the company is a continuous award winner for the quality of its staff and their service to you. To see the difference at Babies R Us why not drop down to the store that opens this Saturday in the Westend Retail Park at the Blanchardstown Centre. And it’s open 7 Day’s a week from 9am Monday to Saturday and 11am Sundays.

Staff members Michelle and Mary putting the finishing touches to a small part of the huge “Babies R Us” section

-------------------------customers at the Republic’s first store can head for Toys R Us happy that it won’t be the nightmare shopping expedition they may have encountered elsewhere.

So why not release in the inner child in you and come down to marvel at the range at the country’s first Toys R Us? Come on your own, or bring the kids, either way you’re in for the biggest treat since you were a child yourself.

The ‘Barbie’ section with staff member Ciaran

6 BLANCH Gazette 3 September 2015

new arrival Public recommendations sought for name of Asian lion cub

Zoo breeding programme is a roaring success Dublin Zoo is seeking the public’s assistance in naming the latest addition to its Asian lion pride born on June 25.

The female cub was born to mother Sita, who came from Mulhouse Zoo in France in 2012 and father Kumar, who came to Dublin Zoo from

Rotterdam Zoo in the Netherlands.

This is the third Asian lion cub born at Dublin Zoo since May 2014.

The new-arrival joins the pride of five Asian lions at the zoo, including sister Kyna and half-brother Kuno.

The births of these Asian lions are hugely significant for the international breeding programme and Dublin Zoo for this endangered species.

There are fewer than 350 Asian lions in the wild. The entire wild population of these lions can be found in

one place – the Gir Forest in India.

Team leader Ciaran McMahon said: “We are thrilled with our new arrival. These lions are endangered in the wild and it is important for conservation that zoos maintain a viable population of Asian

lions.

“The female cub is settling in very well. At 10 weeks old she now weighs an estimated 5kg and has developed a strong bond with mum Sita.”

He went on to say that it is great to see the mother taking to her role as a guardian

so well, adding that the cub’s father Kumar is “as cool and calm as ever”.

Dublin Zoo recommend a name based on her Asian origin.

Name suggestions can be submitted at www.DublinZoo.ie.

‘Welcome relief’ as vacant haematology posts filled  Keith Bellew

Two vacant haematology posts at Connolly Hospital have been filled after more than nine months. The first of the two was filled earlier in the summer, while the second has been filled in recent weeks.

Haematology is the branch of medicine concerned with the study, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases related to the blood. The long vacancies resulted in the downgrading of cancer services at the hospital over that period and cancer patients undergoing chemo-

therapy had to travel to other hospitals for their treatment.

Deputy Mayor of Fingal Jack Chambers (FF) welcomed the filling of the posts saying it will come as a major relief to cancer patients attending Connolly Hospital as it will allow their treatment to resume locally.

“This is a welcome relief. I hope that the busy oncology services at Connolly Hospital can now resume in full and that all patients affected will immediately see a full resumption of their care at Connolly,” he said.

A series of audio-visual art shows will take place in three distinct sites along the river Tolka

performance: audio-visual public art events

Artists celebrate the River Tolka

An audio-visual art performance centred around the importance of the Tolka River series of public art events, funded under the Per Cent for Art Scheme, will take place at Tolka Valley Park/Brookhaven on September 11 at 8pm.

This is the second in a series of events taking place in three distinct sites along the river Tolka in September.

The series, entitled Tolka Nights, will consist of sound, film, performance and discussion, and explore the river’s significance as an ecosystem, to communities,

to diverse histories, and to regional and national current affairs.

To l k a N i g h t s h a s emerged through the individual and collaborative practice of six artists brought together specifically for the commission.

These are Matt Green, Sven Anderson, John D’Arcy, Jennie Guy, Conan McIvor and Stuart Sloan.

The Blanchardstown instalment of Tolka Nights will see audio visual work by the six artists on a full-scale outdoor screen with an immersive sound set-up.

V i d e o wo r k s a n d live performances will merge over the course of the evening. The event setting is at the riverside deep within the Tolka Valley Park behind the Blanchardstown shopping centre.

A council spokesperson said: “These projects are the outcome of the six ar tists’ extended engagement with the Tolka.

“Over the last several months, the group have been working through local libraries and media archives, and consulting with the river’s residents, users and maintainers as

a means of grasping the river’s intricacies.

“Some members of the group have focused on documenting the river through audio and video recording, while others carried out song-writing and rehearsal sessions at the river’s banks, or investigated sites along the river as settings for experimental films.”

All events are free and open to the public, but booking is required via Eventbrite For more information about Tolka Nights, including bookings for the events, please visit www.tolkanights.com

3 September 2015 BLANCH Gazette 7

crime Spike shown in reports of break-ins

Burglary units will stay, says Minister  Keith Bellew

J u s t i c e M i n i s t e r, Frances Fitzgerald has said that the suggestion that Garda burglar y units are being disbanded is without foundation.

This comes as Deputy Mayor of Fingal Jack Chambers (FF) expressed serious concerns after hearing that the intelligence-led unit designated to investigate burglaries in Dublin was being shut down at a time when burglaries in Dublin 15 are on the rise again.

“Communities across my own area of Dublin West are being targeted on a regular basis by well-organised criminals who often return to the same estates to get their hands on cash, jewellery and other valuables.

“The idea that the dedicated armed unit working to track these criminal gangs is being axed rather than expanded is a complete joke,” he said.

There was a spike in reports of burglaries in Dublin over the months of July and August, he said, following a brief

Deputy Mayor of Fingal Jack Chambers (FF) expressed serious concerns after hearing that the intelligence-led unit designated to investigate burglaries in Dublin was being shut down

lull in these incidents “We’re one of the worst affected areas for burglaries compared to other parts of Dublin and our detection rate is one of the lowest. Last year we had the highest percentage increase of burglaries,” he said.

He went on to say that the unit in question was set up to gather intelligence on burglary gangs, and worked through the night to track them and catch them in action.

It played a vital role in targeting the criminal gangs behind the

spate of burglaries in west Dublin and across the country, and was regarded as an extremely successful unit within An Garda Siochana.

“I am calling on the Minister for Justice Frances Fitzgerald to explain what happened here. Will the work carried out by these specialist gardai now go to waste?” he said.

A spokesperson from the Department of Justice said the deployment of policing resources in relation to burglary or other crimes is a mat-

ter for Garda management.

“However, the Minister is assured by the Garda authorities that extensive anti-burglary operations are in force throughout the Dublin area, involving specialist and local Garda units, and that these measures are being adapted and developed on an ongoing basis.

“The Minister is advised that the suggestion that Garda burglary units are being disbanded is without foundation,” said the spokesperson.

Unique new training course People in Dublin 15 who are over 18, out of work and love football and fitness have an opportunity to get involved in an innovative project designed to help them back into the workforce or onto further education.

The FAI, Fingal County Council and Blanchardstown Area Partnership have teamed up to provide this new training course beginning this October.

This career-focused course aims to provide education and work opportunities for people who would like to pursue a career in fitness instruction and football. The course is unique in Fingal and cov-

ers both ITEC fitness instructor and FAI coaching modules including; anatomy and physiology, client screening, first aid, diet and nutrition, resistance training, business awareness, studio cycle, kick start introduction to coaching, player/ personal development, pan disability certificate and an introductory referees course.

Marion Brown, principal sports officer, Fingal County Council, described the course as a great opportunity for people in Dublin 15 who are unemployed to get involved in a project designed to broaden their education and help them back into the workforce.

“The combination of ITEC gym instruction certification and football coaching badges included in the programme makes this course very attractive given the popularity of healthy pastimes and emphasis on healthy lifestyles,” she said, adding that the course is open to men and women and the qualifications and work experience it offers will provide a boost to a person’s CV. The course begins on Tuesday, September 29 in Litton Lane Training Centre in TCD and applications are now being accepted.

For more information contact sports@fingal.ie

8 BLANCH GAZETTE 3 September 2015

GAZETTEGALLERIES

Louise Dietz, Wendy Acres and Linda Horrigan

Fran Duggan cycles 50km on the stationary bike

Leah Swify

David, Hilda, Jack, Hayley, Ava and Sam Grant and (inset) Sam beginning the walk with his family, friends and Olympic boxer Michael Carruth. Pictures: Stephen Fleming

CLONEE: CHARITY FUNDRAISING EVENT

Stepping up the support for Sam A Sam with his mum Hilda and family friend and Sam’s Steps founder, Elaine Swift (left)

RECENT fundraising event in Clonee was well-attended as residents came out to show support for charity Sam’s Steps.

The charity was set up to help Sam overcome his disabilities and learn to walk for the first time. The event featured a 5km walk, 50km cycle, live music a raffle and plenty more and helped to raise vital funds to help Sam continue his treatment.

Caroline Dempsey, Jeff Walsh and Sandra Hoey

3 September 2015 blanch Gazette 9

PamelaCarter

Ray Kerrigan and principal Eileen O’Rourke

Anita Onyejemeli and Farouk Raheem with CorneliaBarkievicz and George Chis

A fshionable line-up

a classy event: students are honoured with reception

T Daniel Karpenko and Mark Kinsella

Emma Ford, Caoimhe Kenny and Taylor Whelan

he Class of 2015 from Colaiste Pobail Setanta in Phibblestown had their debs ball in the Osprey Hotel in Naas recently, but not before a school reception in their honour. One-hundred-and-twenty-nine students sat their Leaving Certificate this year and the college was delighted with the results, most students achieving first choice in their CAO applications. In particular principal Eileen O’Rourke and deputy principals Clare Garrihy and Mark Dowling were extremely proud of the leaving Certificate Applied students, most of whom passed with distinctions.

Another very good year for Colaiste Pobail Setanta.

10 Gazette 3 September 2015

gazetteGALLERIES

Claire Moran and Jasmine O’Brien

Well-known faces from the world of entertainment helping Lidl to celebrate its very own Oktoberfest. The celebration, held at Meeting House Square in Dublin, launched the Alpengut range of food in Lidl stores. Guests on the night included UTV news anchor Alison Comyn, Gia Elllis

Harry Cullen

RTE weather anchor Nuala Carey, TV3’s Peter O’Riordan with wife, Stephanie, Siobhan O’Connor and Sonya Mohlich. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Prost! A LIDL CELEBRATION FOR NEW FOOD RANGE

Dublin takes on Oktoberfest Sarah Tomry and RTE’s Nuala Carey

Niamh Devereux, Victoria Stone and Clodagh Daly

Kevin Haverty and Ryan McDonnell

3 September 2015 Gazette 11

world record P15

asdfsdaf musical P27 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



Gazette

diary P12

what’son Console conference:

John Wyer at work in the kitchen. He usually gets up at about 6.30am, cycles 10 minutes to work and is at Forest Avenue by 7am.

a day in the life: owner and head chef at Forest Avenue John Wyer

It boils down to hard work  aisling kennedy

John Wyer, owner and head chef at Forest Avenue in Dublin, is one of the hardest working men in the food industry. Running a restaurant is no easy task and Wyer works 14- and 15-hour days to ensure his restaurant serves the highest quality food to its customers.

He took time out recently to talk to the Gazette about a day in his life.

Wyer explains that he usually gets up at about 6.30am, cycles 10 minutes to work and is at Forest Avenue by 7am.

He said: “I don’t have anything to eat in the morning, I just have a glass of water. My wife, Sandy who runs the restaurant with me, usually arrives at about 10am and she always brings me breakfast.

“She usually picks something up on her way in like scrambled eggs and orange juice and we have our breakfast together.”

Wyer explains that once he gets into the kitchen in the morning he starts making the breads for lunch service and he also starts to prepare stocks for the day by roasting bones.

“The food deliveries start coming in at about 7.30am which I always check, and then the rest of the team will start to arrive at 8am.”

At 11am the front of house staff make coffee’s for everyone and Wyer then heads upstairs to take care of the admin side of things by ringing suppliers, making sure everything has arrived for lunch, and planning the dinner menu for that night.

“That’s my down time, it’s just time I need away from the kitchen where I can focus on creating and organising,” he explains.

Wyer then heads back downstairs to prepare for lunch which begins at 12 o’clock and is usually a very busy service with between 20 to 30 people served daily.

Once lunch is over, Wyer then cycles home for a well-earned break at about 3.30pm.

Despite being a culinary genius, Wyer tends to make himself sandwiches and salads for lunch and he explains that once he finishes eating he has a power nap.

“That’s my new thing now. I set my alarm for 20 minutes and I doze off. That little sleep revitalises me and I’ll take a

nice shower when I wake and I’m very much ready to go again by 4.45pm.”

Wyer then cycles back to the restaurant where he makes sure everything is set up for the evening dinner service and he cooks from 6pm to 10pm.

As the last part of the day, Wyer then calls his local suppliers to order in produce for the next day.

“I’m usually home by about 11.30pm/12am and I’ll have some food, a glass of wine and I’ll sit on the couch and have a chat about the day with my wife. The main thing is that we both unwind after the day so we usually just watch some TV and then head to bed.”

Forest Avenue is on Sussex Road, Dublin 4. For more information log onto www.forestavenuerestaurant.ie

Music and TV star Niall “Bressie” Breslin will share the stage with some of the world’s most influential minds and thought leaders on suicide at Console’s upcoming annual conference.

The Console World Suicide Prevention Day Conference 2015 takes place on Thursday, September 10, at the Aviva Stadium Conference Centre.

The conference is of benefit to anyone working in a caregiving role or with a more general interest in suicide prevention and postvention.

Bressie’s contributions to the national debate on mental health, anxiety, depression and suicide, have helped address the stigma which remains in Ireland today.

He believes that opening up about mental health is the first stage to recovery, and the fruits of that were seen in recent figures released by Console which showed a rise in the number of young men contacting the organisation.

Console offers free counselling services and 24-hour helpline (Freephone 1800 201 890 or text 51444).

12 Gazette 3 September 2015

Gazette

dublinlife Banking on the bible at inquiry It recently emerged that the Oireachtas Banking Inquiry set up to investigate that irresponsible era leading to the economic crash of 2008, has spent €3.5m conducting its business, including €56 for bibles for interviewees to swear on.

Other expenses included €3,938 on tea and coffee, €1,100 on newspapers and €12.70 on copies of the Constitution.

Quite ironic really!

However, if HBO has

shown us anything, it’s that top quality entertainment requires a budget. And have there been moments of top quality entertainment during this inquiry!

Notably when Bertie returned to give a political master class laced with little jibes at Fine Gael.

At one point during his interrogation, in response to Deputy Eoghan Murphy’s (FG) questions about budgetary spending before the 2007 election, he

quipped that he wasn’t worried about not being returned to the office of Taoiseach so spending wasn’t an issue.

bee sure to check out new musical Theatre company WillFredd and children’s cultural centre The Ark have teamed up to create an exciting new musical for audiences ages 6+, their families and friends.

BEES! by Mark Doherty and directed by Sophie Motley will premiere as part of the Family Season

in Dublin Theatre Festival 2015.

The production is a musical filled with fun and songs, dancing and jiving, flying and hiving and absolutely no boring stuff.

You will also learn lots of facts about bees along the way.

For more information and to book tickets for the show, visit www.dublintheatrefestival.com/ Online/BEES or www. dublintheatrefestival. com.

Dublin Theatre Festival 2015 runs from September 24 to 11, with 28 worldclass productions spanning 22 different stages across Dublin city and suburbs. The programme will offer both spectacular, large-scale presentations and intimate performances which will entertain seasoned theatre-goers and first-time audiences alike.

christmas is early at brown thomas As summer draws to a close, Christmas bells are ringing at Brown Thomas which reminds us of the onset of the festive season with the launch of its Christmas Market.

A dedicated space in the Dublin store has been transformed into a winter wonderland filled with Christmas trees, seasonal decorations and festive food.

The themes of this year’s Christmas Market at Brown Thomas include, Ice Palace, Venetian Winter, I Love Candy and Santa’s Journey.

The Christmas Market at Brown Thomas is now open for anyone who wishes to indulge themselves in the festive spirit.

diary

Rachel and Laura Scott at the Christmas Market at Brown Thomas

3 September 2015 Gazette 13

Gazette

14 Gazette 3 September 2015

dublinlife

advice : Competition & Consumer Protection commission sets out questions you need to ask

Thinking of buying a car?

According to the Competition and Consumer Protection Commission, almost 30% of queries to the helpline relate to buying a car.

To help you make the right decisions, here are a few questions to consider 1. What’s your budget?

Think about what you can afford to spend. If you are a first-time buyer it is easier to estimate as you do not have a tradein.

If you are trading-in, you need to consider the

cost of changing - subtract the value of your trade-in from the price of a new car. Also think about the associated running costs.

2. How are you going to pay for the car?

Saving up for a car is the cheapest option as you do not have to pay interest on a loan.

If taking out a personal loan from your bank or credit union, work out what you will be repaying each month.

You can compare savings accounts and personal loan rates from the

different providers on www.consumerhelp.ie.

A good rule of thumb is if you require finance for more than three years to pay for a car, it may be too expensive for you.

3. Personal Loans v Hire Purchase/Personal Contract Plan (PCP)?

A garage may offer a hire purchase agreement or PCP as a way of paying for your car.

The main difference between a personal loan and a PCP is that with a loan you borrow the money, pay for your car, and own it immediately.

With a PCP, you don’t own the car, you are hiring it for a period of time, typically 3-5 years.

You only own it when you make the final payment.

T his is impor tant because if you were to run into financial difficulty during your PCP, unlike a loan, you cannot sell the car to pay off your debt.

4. Do you know your rights if you buy from a trader compared to a private seller?

If you buy from a dealer you have the option of car finance, a warranty, and you have some protection under consumer law.

For instance, it is an offence for a dealer to sell a car that is not roadworthy or provide you with misleading information about the car such as any repair work needed etc.

If you are dealing with a trader ask if they are part of a trade association, for example the Society of Irish Motor Industry (SIMI).

This requires them to follow certain business standards.

If you buy from a dealer you have the option of car finance, a warranty, and you have some protection under consumer law

Visit www.consumerhelp.ie for more information on what to look out for before you buy a car, including a car purchase checklist.

If you buy privately, you do not have the same consumer rights because the person selling the car is not acting as a business.

5. Have you checked the condition of the car?

Always check the mileage on the odometer, if it seems low compared

to the condition of the car investigate. You can find out more about car clocking on www.consumerhelp.ie.

6. Have you investigated the car’s history?

You can check the history of the car on websites such as www.cartell. ie, www.motorcheck.ie or www.mywheels.ie for a small fee.

All Society of Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) dealers have access to a car history check service.

Also, make sure you check that the car is not under any existing finance agreement.

Hire Purchase Inform a t i o n L t d ke e p s records of cars subject to hire purchase agreements, so check if they have details of the car on file.

For more advice when buying a car check out www.consumerhelp.ie fergal o’leary Director of Communications and Consumer Help

Sheds’ Strollers take a walk for charity A group of casual walkers called the Sheds’ Strollers will do a special walk for charity next week in aid of St Michael’s House.

The Sheds’ Strollers meet every week in Connolly’s The Sheds pub in Clontarf.

The charity walk, which takes place on September 6, 2015, at 11am, is a historical walk of

Clontarf under the direction of well-known tour guide and historian Pat Liddy of Walking Tours Dublin.

The walk will start at the Alfie Byrne Chair, at the Fairview end of the promenade near Clontarf Dart Station, and it will then proceed along the promenade to Clontarf Village (Vernon Ave-

nue).

Pat Liddy will regale walkers with stories about the many historical points of this ancient part of Dublin city.

To register for the walk, contact Michael Coyne on 0872843448.

Registration is €10 per person with a special family rate of €20 for two people or more.

3 September 2015 Gazette 15

Gazette

features A spookily wise woman visits National Leprechaun Museum The Cailleach, the ancient hag of wisdom in Irish Folklore, is set to return to The National Leprechaun Museum for the season of Samhain.

This Halloween Dubliners are invited to visit the witch in her lair underneath the museum; the original site of the Jervis Street Morgue.

The Cailleach will be available for adult-only visits every Friday and Saturday night after 6.30pm in September and October with under-18

Maura Twomey (59) broke the world record for the oldest Irish person to swim the English Channel

world record: Walkinstown woman swims for niece

Maura crosses Channel and smashes record

 Aisling Kennedy

A Walk instown woman broke the world record for the oldest Irish person to swim the English Channel recently and she did it in aid of the charity, Build4Life Cystic Fibrosis.

Maura Twomey (59), who now lives in Boston, USA decided to swim the Channel after a discussion she had with her sister-inlaw about her nephew who has the condition.

Twomey explained: “My sister-in-law told me about my niece and her son who had cystic fibrosis and how hard it was for them.

“It took longer than it should have for him to be diagnosed and she told me that they were raising money for Build4Life and Cork University Hospital.

That was the moment when I said maybe I could swim the Channel for them if I worked hard enough.”

Twomey then set about getting advice on how she would go about swimming the English Channel as even though she was an avid swimmer since her teens she knew that it would be a massive undertaking.

“I asked a swimming coach I knew in Cork and she gave me a lot of advice on how I should go about training for the swim.”

Twomey began swimming 30-40 km per week, took up yoga classes and completed Crossfit training.

She then attended the Sandycove Island Swim Club camp last July where she completed an intensive course of swims daily

and since then she has continued to increase her endurance and training throughout the year.

On July 10 this year, Twomey entered the water and swam from Samphire Hoe beach in Dover to Petite Blanc Nez on the French coast.

She completed the swim in 16 hours and 23 minutes.

She drank mostly liquid herbs mixed with blackcurrant juice, orange juice and half warm water to counteract the cold water.

She also ate half a banana every so often.

She never stopped swimming once because if she stopped kicking her legs it would not be counted as a full swim.

Twomey explains: “I was very lucky to get sunny conditions for my

swim. The water could’ve been choppy and messy but thank God none of that happened.

“I was so deeply happy when I finished the swim.

I just stood there like a stunned person, I was just dumbstruck that I did it.

Sometimes I think about it and say ‘Did I really do that?’

“I’m proud that I did it and my family were so supportive of me. I wasn’t going out to prove I could do it, I just wanted to do it for the charity and I’m delighted that it all went so well.”

So far Twomey has raised over €27,000 for Build4Life.

If you would like to donate to the Build4Life Cystic Fibrosis charity log onto http://www. mycharity.ie/event/maurasenglishchannelswim

visits from Friday, October 23 to Sunday, November 1 before 6.30pm.

Youngsters who can’t wait until then, can venture into the witch’s lair on Culture Night, Friday, September, 18.

The festival of Samhain, summer’s end, celebrates life, death, and life beyond death. The Cailleach Bhearra is the divine hag of Ireland she appears across the island from the Beara peninsula in Cork to Slieve Gullion in Armagh, the cliffs

of Moher in Clare and Loughcrew in Meath.

According to the Leprechaun Museum: “The Cailleach is the ancient mother of all Ireland. She is referred to often from medieval times, but her presence stretches back to a much earlier time, a time before books and writing. Across the land rocks and cairns, tombs and graves are her seats, her beds and her homes.”

For more information visit: www.leprechaunmuseum.ie/

Gazette

16 Gazette 3 September 2015

dublinlife

magical musical: Love me tender takes to the stage

Shaun’s shook up delivering the King’s hits  Ian Begley

After a 10-year gig as Barry in EastEnders, unforgettable appearances in Ricky Gervais’s Extras and leading roles in a ton of West End shows, Shaun Williamson is back and starring

in Bord Gais Energy T heatre’s upcoming production, Love Me Tender.

The musical, inspired by the music of Elvis Presley, features 25 of his best-loved songs including The Devil in Disguise, Hound Dog,

Blue Suede Shoes and All Shook Up. Williamson plays Jim, a widower and resident of “heartbreak hotel”, who might just have one last chance at love.

Speaking to The Gazette, Williamson said he was very much

looking for ward to coming to Dublin to mark the last week of the show’s tour.

“I’d never worked in a theatre in Dublin before, but I’ve been there quite a few times for a number of TV appearances.

“I think the most important thing to note about the show is that Elvis isn’t even in it. It’s simply a feel good musical based on the songs of the rock-and-roll legend.

“It’s set in the most depressed town ever in midwest America where nobody’s happy. One day a stranger turns up in a leather jacket and a motorbike – an Elvis personality by the name of Chad, and once he turns up a lot of crazy stuff starts happening.

“In total, I’m involved in about eight songs, including a few duets with Chad himself.

Luckily, we’ve got about 10 very fit dancers on stage which means that I don’t have to move about so much.”

This production is a million miles away from his role in EastEnders which, Williamson admits, he doesn’t really miss.

“It’s been 11 years since I’ve been in EastEnders which is crazy and I don’t really miss it because I did it for 10 years.

“I went into drama school very late at the

Actor Shaun Williamson is starring in Bord Gais Energy Theatre’s upcoming production, Love Me Tender. Picture: Johan Persson

age of 27 and once I finished I got a part in the show.

“Once my time came to an end on the show at 40 I hadn’t had much acting experience elsewhere so I was determined to do some work on stage. I have been very lucky since then and have done about 25 shows over the past 11 years.”

Asked if he gets a lot of people still seeing him solely as “Barry” – the same way his character was on Ricky Gervais’s hit sitcom Extras, Williamson said that it

happens regularly but does not affect him.

“Extras was a very funny show. On one level it carried on the stereotype of me being Barry, but to be honest I don’t mind it and never regret doing it.

“It was great fun working with R icky Gervais and Steve Merchant so I owe them a lot.

“EastEnders is a terrific show, but Ricky Gervais and Steve Merchant are comedy legends so to get a chance working with them was really great.”

He says he doesn’t keep in touch with the comedic pair: “Not really. We don’t go out for drinks or anything like that because they’re just so busy. Ricky is a workaholic and hops from one project to another and Steve is now in the West End himself.”

Love me Tender takes place at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre from September 21 to 26 with tickets costing €25 to €50.

See bordgaisenergytheatre.ie for more information.

3 September 2015 Gazette 17

travel P20

asdfsdaf P27 cinema P22

OUT&ABOUT Never be out of the loop on what’s happening in Dublin! Let Out&About be your guide to all that is stylish, cultural and essential across the city and beyond this week



Gazette

style P18

Pets extra love for extra lovable Spencer

The Moscow State Circus show has been garnering a huge amount of praise in the UK – and it’s coming to Ireland. Catch it while you can...

families: moscow state circus set to delight with its return to the rds

You’ll go Russian to a show  keith bellew

THE world-renowned Moscow State Circus comes to the RDS with its latest offering from September 4 to 13.

Unlike US-style circuses with animals jumping through flaming hoops to the crack of a whip, the Moscow State Circus is an artistic show performed to a theme or storyline.

The latest show, which is billed as their best, to date, is based on the Russian folklore story of Cvetik-Semicvetik, or “The flower with seven colours”,

by Valentin Petrovich Katayev, where each colour represents a wish.

Speaking to The Gazette, circus director Paul Archer discussed the storyline of the show.

“It’s a brand-new show that we’re bringing to Dublin since we were last in town two years ago.

“The story revolves around a girl who is granted these wishes during the course of the performance and uses these wishes for personal gain and personal desires. She wants the biggest popcorn in the world, for example,” he said.

Other frivolous selfish wishes granted to the girl include a hula-hoop and a gingerbread man. However, she goes on to redeem herself with her final wish.

“Finally, it gets to the end of the show, and she’s got one wish left and she really sees the light and wants to make a sick boy be able to walk again.

“He’s on crutches at the start of the show and he’s hobbling around.

She not only makes him better, but he performs one of the acts to finish the show off,” said Archer.

He added that the show has a good moral behind it, namely, it’s not what you have, but who you are, what you can do, and what you can give to people that counts.

Impressive Archer went on to outline some of the amazing acts to be seen at the show, one of the most impressive of which is Eliza Khachutryan, who performs amazing feats on the highwire.

“We’ve got a high-wire act this year

with a girl doing the whole act in ballerina points, and she does amazing tricks.

“We’ve got the Russian bar, the springboard, the amazing roller skating act, the clowns, the trapeze people and lots of other things; it’s a full twohour live show for the audience and it’s suitable for all ages.

“Because of the training that they have undergone, they are the creme de la creme of circus acts anywhere in the world,” he said, adding that the show has been met with a huge amount of praise so far in the UK. The Moscow State Circus will perform at the RDS for one week from September 4. For further information, see www.moscowstatecircus.com/.

The Gazette Newspaper has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week is Spencer, a two-year-old pit bull/shar pei cross.

Spencer was in a really bad way when he arrived at Dogs Trust from the pound. He had bad mange and was really malnourished.

We have been doing our very best to feed Spencer an enriched diet to build up his strength, as well as regular medicated baths to help his skin.

Even though he has had a terrible start to life, Spencer is an absolute sweetheart, and we really would love to find him the most loving home.

If you think you could offer Spencer a loving home please contact Dogs Trust on 01-879 1000.

They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50.

Map and directions can be found on their website www.dogstrust.ie.

Gazette

18 Gazette 3 September 2015

OUT&ABOUT 182 Cape coat €

nch €208 Longline belted wool tre

Baby doll dress €63

Cascade multi-chain necklace €100

Green pendant €45

own skirt Faux zip d

irt €104 Suede mini sk

€52

Ladies’ round white watch €35

Rose petal bangle €39

Newbridge Silverwear’s new Floral Collection offers some classic, timeless elegance

Double buckle 60s boots €124

autumn/winter with

Warehouse  mimi murray

Cable jumper €60

ered dress €375

are set to become a huge trend this season.

This sophisticated trend would be perfectly paired with Newbridge Silverware’s timeless Lily Of The Valley Necklace (€60). This silverplated, glass beaded necklace would add an extra touch of class to any uber-elegant outfit.

The full 2015 Newbridge Silverware range can be viewed and purchased in selected stockists nationwide, at the Newbridge Silverware Showrooms, County Kildare, or online at www.newbridgesilverware.com.

For more information, call 045 431 301, and like Newbridge Silverware on Facebook at www. facebook.com/newbridgesilverware for news on upcoming events.

roid Leather emb

FOUR clear trends have emerged for A/W 15 from the world’s biggest designers: glitter and sequins, ladylike tweed, the return of bold colour and Victorian frills.

Be both on trend and have some fun this autumn/winter with Newbridge Silverware’s Floral Collection.

This beautiful, silverplated floral-inspired range includes pendants, bangles, bracelets and earrings.

In particular, the floral pendant with clear stone (€40) and matching floral bangle with clear stone (€45) feature a unique etching design, resembling glitterwhen it catches the late evening sun.

At Paris Fashion Week, ladylike tweed skirt suits sashayed down the catwalk and

Leather pointed boots €97

THE season continues its retrograde path as the Seventies obsession continues its reign.

Working with a strong palette of black and deep navy, punctuated with caramel, ochre and hints of wine, texture is key to Warehouse’s A/W15 collection.

Toni Morden, head of design at Warehouse, says: “The collection was inspired by the streets of New York in the 1970s; from the uptown girls of Madison to the Harlem hustlers.

“The style channels the attitude of the Seventies’ most irreverent music heroines, including Kate Bush, Janis Joplin and Stevie Nicks.”

The clothing range is available in store through to October.

3 September 2015 GAZETTE 19

GAZETTE

STYLE

Nuxe is a knockout!

(L) Rib dress €88; (R) Zip front dress €72

 MIMI MURRAY

I RECENTLY started using the new Splendieuse Serum from Nuxe, and I am loving this product!

It’s from the Radiance Activating Anti Dark Spot Skincare Range, which promises to give even, luminous skin with no dark spots.

Apparently, 100% of women who tested it want to continue using it – and I can see why ... It’s available now, priced €38.

Be on track for the latest in fashion with ‘the GlamTram’

Ribbed lurex polo €52

Stripe dress €47

Unlined leather and suede panel shopper €50

DUBLINTOWN has teamed up with Luas to announce an exciting element to this year’s Dublin Fashion Festival – the Dublin Fashion Festival Luas #GlamTram.

On Friday, September 11, from 1 to 3pm, Luas will host a very glam event as part of the fashion festival. Guests will enjoy an afternoon of free mini makeovers, courtesy of Boots No 7 and Tony and Guy, along with delicious canapes and mocktails, thanks to Mao and TGI Fridays.

In addition to the Dublin Fashion Festival #GlamTram, Luas will be on the lookout for the most fashionably-dressed passengers throughout the week of the festival, with its Style Spotter competition offering lots of prizes.

Cara Moloney, marketing manager of Transport Infrastructure Ireland said: “Luas is delighted to support this year’s Dublin Fashion

Festival, Ireland’s biggest fashion event. Luas is a key part of the city’s infrastructure and will transport festival attendees to the many events in the city centre over the week-long festival.”

Clyde Carroll, director of marketing for DublinTown, and festival director, said: “Each year, the festival gets bigger and more exciting than the last and we are delighted to be celebrating the first ever week-long festival with an exciting activity such as the Luas #GlamTram, proving Dublin’s style stature amidst the ranks of the world’s fashion capitals.”

For the latest festival news, including fashion shows, in-store events and booking information, see Dublin Fashion Festival’s website at www.dff.ie, or follow it on Facebook (at http:// www.facebook.com/ DublinFashionFestival), Twitter (@DublinFashion), or Instagram (@DublinFashion).

GAZETTE

20 GAZETTE 3 September 2015

OUT&ABOUT

TRAVEL

DUBLIN: CASTLEKNOCK HOTEL AND COUNTRY CLUB

Celebrating 10 years of stylish accommodation  JESSICA MAILE

THESE days having a business thrive for 10 years is definitely something worth celebrating and Castleknock Hotel and Country Club invited me to help them do just that.

This oasis just outside of Dublin city ticks all the right boxes for business and for pleasure.

The Castleknock Hotel and Country Club has modern conference rooms, a relaxing spa, spacious rooms, fine dining and, of course, a great place to play a round of golf.

I had the chance to explore the facility’s new state-of-the-art meeting room, The Thinking Factory.

This colourful room is the perfect environment for a team-building session or a bit of brainstorming and is just filled with modern technology.

The Tonic Health and Day Spa was next on the menu and it offers a range of soothing therapies to help you relax. There is even a double room so you and your partner can relax together as you both enjoy your treatment.

Afterwards, a dip in the

The Castleknock Hotel and Country Club is celebrating its 10th anniversary

18m swimming pool and jacuzzi was a must while trying to decide whether to continue relaxation mode in the sauna or steam room.

A s e ve n i n g approached, the Lime Tree Bar spilled its secrets with a hands-on class in the art of making the perfect cocktail and there is many a tasty tipple to be found here.

This is the residents’ bar and can also be used for private receptions.

Finally, it was time to enter the Park Restaurant and enjoy the range of food on offer from this AA Rosette awardwinning restaurant.

The four-course meal was splendid starting with pulled ham terrine, starter of goat’s cheese mousse, main course of trio of duck and a delightful dessert sampler that certainly satisfied my sweet tooth.

After an exhausting day of a deep neck and back massage, swimming and relaxing in the spa, I was happy to retreat to my bedroom and sink into my large, cosy bed.

For more information on the Castleknock Hotel and Countr y Club’s 10th Birthday packages, see w w w. castleknockhotel.com.

Iceland boasts numerous natural wonders and stunning scenery, as well as capital city Reykjavik (pictured)

LAND OF FIRE AND ICE: WOW PROVIDING LOW-COST DIRECT FLIGHTS

Now is the time to explore Iceland’s untamed beauty  IAN BEGLEY ibegley@dublingazette.com

THERE could not be a better time for Irish tourists travelling to Iceland, as direct flights to Reykjavik are now as little as €79 each way.

This June, Icelandic airline WOW started p r ov i d i n g l ow- c o s t direct flights from Dublin to Reykjavik, saving hundreds of euros for those wishing to explore this vast and beautiful country.

Known as the Land of Fire and Ice, there are not many places in the world which have such contrasting dramatic landscapes as Iceland with the city of Reykjavik, as well as numerous

natural wonders and stunning scenery.

From the Blue Lagoon to spouting geysers, glaciers and fjords, it is a mesmerising country just waiting to be explored.

Iceland is one of few places in the world where it is possible to see the amazing Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights - a natural light phenomenon.

The country’s unusual and versatile landscape with its black volcanic beaches, waterfalls, bird cliffs, volcanoes, glaciers and hot springs is sure to excite even the most seasoned tourist.

One of the must-do activities in Iceland is to explore the inside of

a real volcano.

This tour will let you travel down deep inside the dormant Thrihnukagigur volcano through an opening just wide enough for a window cleaner’s pulley lift, to get people in and out.

The Inside the Volcano Iceland day tour from €256pp is a great mix of nature, history and adventure.

It features a hike across the moonscape of the ragged lava field, and great views across Reykjavik, From €59pp you can take a dip in the world’s favourite volcanic spa, the Blue Lagoon, and soak all your stresses away.

The Blue Lagoon

water contains a unique cocktail of natural mineral ingredients which help you relax and unwind while the Blue Lagoon white silica mud gently cleanses and exfoliates your skin.

For €146, you can visit a real-life glacier and experience raw nature in a winter wonderland of ice sculptures, ridges and deep crevasses.

You’ll take off eastwards out of Reykjavik where you’ll see the unforgettable Eyjafjallajokull glacier after about two hours on the road.

You may remember that name because of the 2010 eruption which shut down air travel in all of Europe.

To make the most out of your trip to Iceland, the Northern Lights tour is without a doubt a must-do.

T h i s t o u r, f r o m €49pp, will take you aw ay f r o m t h e c i t y lights so that you can observe the sky without light pollution.

Visit wowair.ie for more information on direct f lights to Iceland.

Irish travel companies Travel Department and Click and Go are also providing holiday package deals to Iceland in some of the country’s top hotels.

For more information, visit www.traveldepartment.ie or www.clickandgo.ie.

3 September 2015 Gazette 21

Base (Terenure) Fresh mozzarella, Italian cherry tomatoes, pecorino romano, prosciutto di parma, fresh basil, drizzled with garlic oil €10.50 for the 9.5”; €14.50 for the 13”

Paulies Pizza at Juniors (Bath Avenue, Ballsbridge) Butternut squash puree, pancetta, parmesan, mozzarella, rocket, black pepper and grated goat’s cheese €15

Gazette

FOOD&DRINK BITESIZEDNEWS

Some of the wonderful wines that Aldi have selected to complement late summer gatherings

Take5

Say ‘oui, oui’ to Aldi’s French wine selection DiFontanes (22 Parliament St, Dublin 2) The Little Italy: Sausage, peppers and onion 20inch €22 (Slices from €3)

 mimi murray

KIDS and adults alike love it. It goes great with an ice cold beer, a glass of vino or a Coke.

There’s no greater comfort food than pizza! No wonder there are so many pizza joints in any city you go to in the world.

This week, The Gazette checked out five of the best pizzas in Dublin. From deep pan (not a favourite of mine) to thin and crispy, we have it covered.

From a classic margherita to more unusual toppings such as pulled pork and bechamel sauce, we’ve seen it all placed on top of a pizza, and here are five of our favourites.

Have we missed anywhere? Let us know on the Gazette Newspaper’s Facebook page, or on Twitter at @DublinGazette.

Next month, we will be unveiling the best fish and chips in the city.

Credo (19 Montague St, Dublin 2) Goat’s cheese, caramelised red onion, black olives, crushed walnuts, tomato sauce, mozzarella, finished with extra virgin olive oil; vegetarian; nuts €15.50 12”

Manifesto (Rathmines) The Manifesto €16

THE Aldi French Wine Sale is now in full swing, bringing customers 13 expertly picked wines that represent the best variety across six of France’s most notable wine producing regions: Alsace, Burgundy, Loire, Bordeaux, Languedoc and the Rhone.

From robust reds to wonderfully crisp whites priced from €6.99, there is a French wine for everyone and suiting deep to shallow pockets.

From the “incredibly clean” Alsace Riesling (€9.49) to the “rich and spicy” Exquisite Collection Crozes-Hermitage (€12.99), the selection is ideal for this time of the year.

Some of the wines selected for Aldi French Wine Sale include the following ...

Alsace Riesling (Alsace) 2014, €9.49: This Riesling (one of Alsace’s “noble” grapes) has aromas dominated by lime.

On the palate, it is incredibly clean and has an edginess to it that reflects the grapes’ acidity. It is delicious on its own or with seafood dishes.

Domaine du Roure de Paulin Pouilly-Fuisse 2014 (Burgundy), €15.99: Made from chardonnay, this wine has subtle acacia flower and vanilla notes, crisp citrusy lemon, quince-spice and stone fruits. It is delicious when served with poultry or rich fish dishes.

Cotes de Beaune Villages (Burgundy), €14.99: Using only the pinot noir grape, this wine is typically light in colour with bright red berry fruits, some subtle meaty-savoury notes, and a hint of spice on the finish. Perfect served with roast lamb.

Chateau de Nety, Beaujolais-Villages (Burgundy), €8.99: Chateau de Nety produces a typically fruity and vivacious style wine. Perfect when served slightly chilled with cold meats, roast chicken or tuna dishes.

Chateau Pindefleurs, Saint-Emilion Grand Cru 2011 (Bordeaux), €18.99: An extremely elegant wine which, after 12 months spent in French oak, becomes increasingly apparent on the midpalate and helps achieve a long and complex finish. Serve at room temperature with red meats.

Gazette

22 Gazette 3 September 2015

OUT&ABOUT

CINEMA

ReelReviews

sinister 2

Spookily effective fare BUILDING on the lore of its predecessor, Sinister 2 (Cert 16, 97 mins) takes a fairly standard horror trope – sinister spirit and cohorts terrorise a normal family – and delivers, well, nothing new, really.

However, despite a few curious points (such as a comparatively amiable leading man), Sinister 2 delivers a reasonably entertaining spookfest that could deliver a fine sequel.

hitman: agent 47 Misses the target

BASED on the popular series of computer games, Hitman: Agent 47 (Cert 15A, 96 mins) has just about as much depth as the hit franchise it’s based on, but lacks some of its mischief. Rupert Friend does just fine as everyone’s favourite bald-headed assassin, but the muddled plot, some dodgy CGI and an underwhelming premise just don’t do the source material justice. Sorry, 47.

inside out

Practically perfect Pixar AUDIENCES are still flocking to Inside Out (Cert G, 102 mins), Pixar’s latest charming film for all ages. Following a young girl’s inner emotional life – expressed through some archetypical characters found in everybody’s head, such as Joy, Anger, Sadness – this charming film has some surprising depths, providing real food for thought behind the vibrant visuals.

Director John Erick Dowdle’s action thriller stars Owen Wilson and Lake Bell

action: American tourists fight for their lives during a violent uprising

No escaping the controversy Relentless action m ov i e N o E s c a p e tells the stor y of an American family who move to somewhere in South East Asia, only to become the quarry in a nerve-jangling game of cat and mouse.

Jack (Owen Wilson), Annie (Lake Bell), and their two girls move to start work on a water purification project but their toothy smiles and perennial optimism are dulled momentarily when they become caught up in the midst of a violent coup.

Trapped inside their hotel, and with a crowd baying for their blood, the family must find a way to safety – while the audience faces more of a moral dilemma.

Written and directed

 Dave phillips

by the Dowdle brothers (who brought us some enjoyable found footage horror in Quarantine, and As Above So Below) No Escape brings along a lot of the trappings of the horror genre: the action is violent and visceral, the tension is at times palpable, and the casting is highly questionable.

Bell (who was perfectly cast earlier this year in rom-com Man Up) unfor tunately doesn’t bring much to the meagre role.

It’s hard to fault Bell

in fairness, as Annie’s range of actions – running, jumping, worrying – seem to be interjected at random into the screenplay. Pierce Brosnan also gets thrown into the mix, channelling David Bowie after decades of substance abuse, Brosnan’s Hammond is a repeat visitor to South East Asia whose dodgy underwo r l d c o n n e c t i o n s come in handy when things start to go awry.

And f or a Ta kenstyled thriller, Owen Wilson seems out of place among the incessant violence.

For future reference, Owen Wilson is made for poignantly wandering around colourful Wes Anderson films, hamming it up on the

catwalks of Zoolander, or quietly mourning pets.

And while the character of Jack is a softly-softly kind of guy who just wants the best for his family, it does starts to become farcical once they are all in the thick of it.

“Don’t worry, nobody is going to die” he – Wilson – whispers to Bell at one point towards the end of the movie, when they have both watched, oh, at least 50 or 60 people perish before their very eyes.

Of course, he meant “none of us nice Americans are going to die” – which brings us to the audience’s dilemma.

On one hand, you can watch No Escape as an exciting and brainless action movie with a high body count.

But on the other hand, you can watch No Escape as a film that depicts South East Asia as a hostile and savage place, with every possible stereotype included on screen within the opening 15 minutes: “Welcome to the Third World,” says Jack sardonically when they check into their hotel room and find that none of the appliances works properly, “more like Fourth World” replies Annie.

While it was shot in Thailand, No Escape never explicitly states what country the story is set in, though there are implications that it is set in Cambodia – where the film is currently banned.

Devoid of the contro-

versy surrounding it, No Escape is a competent throwback to action movie days of yore, but it is impossible to separate the film and its place in history.

The problem is that No Escape not only falls short in a moral sense, it is also falls short when set beside the great action movies of the last decade like Taken, The Raid, or Mad Max. Unw i t t i n g l y, N o Escape has prompted a discussion about how race and location should be represented on screen, and aside from 100 minutes of distraction, perhaps that is the best thing it has to offer.

Verdict: 4/10

3 September 2015 GAZETTE 23

GAZETTE

HEALTH Still plenty of running left in the season

Psychological skills have been shown to be as important as physical prowess in sporting achievement

TIPS: WORKING WITH THE MENTAL ASPECTS OF SPORTING SKILL

Training mind as well as the body hones that edge HOW often do we hear spor ting disappointments explained by reference to an athlete’s frame of mind, rather than fitness, ability or talent? “His nerves got to him on the day”; “she didn’t believe she could do it”; “he was psyched out by the competition”.

The discipline of sports psychology has evolved in response to the need for a professional approach to working with the mental and emotional aspects of sporting skill. It provides tips for harnessing the mind’s power mind for optimal performance.

The following are a few of those tips.

Develop confidence with SMART goals

Belief in oneself is crucial to success. Setting and achieving goals builds a foundation of confidence over time.

SMART goals are specif-

ic (for example running three times a week for half an hour each time), measurable (so you can chart your progress), attainable (so that you have a sense of achievement), relevant (so they are meaningful to you) and timed (set within a realistic timeframe).

Recognise and counteract negative thinking

At some point, everyone will in their sporting life experience anxiety, loss of confidence, demoralisation and the feeling of wanting to give up. What singles out the winners is the ability to transform these debilitating feelings into ones that motivate and inspire. Be aware of selfcriticism (“I didn’t train hard enough”), excuses (“I’m tired today”), catastrophising (“I haven’t a hope”) and self-handicapping (“I’m just not as

fit as everyone else”).

These thoughts must be banished as soon as they appear. “Thought stopping” means acknowledging a negative thought and then leaving it behind. When running, this can be reinforced by brushing the thought away just as sweat is brushed off your brow and then visualising it lying behind you on the road or track.

Develop positive self-talk

Once the negative thought has been cast aside, it needs to be replaced with a positive, motivating one, such as “I know I can do it!” or “Here we go!”. These affirm your belief in yourself and your ability to achieve. Phrases need to be convincing – different ones work for different people – and practised regularly so they can be called on to eliminate

Maeve Halpin

self doubt and negativity instantly.

Know how “fired up” you need to be

Being overan xious before an event will detract from performance, but being too relaxed can also be detrimental. Research shows that performance is best at a moderate level of arousal or activation.

Again, this varies from person to person. To raise your arousal level, listen to up-tempo music

or have a high-intensity warm-up to stimulate your hear t rate and blood flow. Alternatively, to calm anxious nerves, listen to calming music and practise slow, deep breathing. Engage in activities that take your mind off the upcoming challenge. Being able to moderate your arousal level as required brings a sense of control and selfreliance.

Psychological skills have been shown to be as important as physical prowess in sporting achievement. Training the mind as well as the body can give you the edge over your competitors on the big day.

IT may be almost over but summer still has some worthwhile events to sign up to. If you have been training consistently through the season, undoubtedly you’re still planning on getting a few more races under your belt. Two of the most recent that I took part in occurred over the same weekend. The Frank Duffy 10-mile road race in Phoenix Park, August 25 was the third event in the Airtricity Dublin Marathon Series. A Sub-70 (one hour and 10 minutes) was my plan for the run. With my Garmin watch fully charged, I checked regularly that I was on target, thus ensuring a sub-seven minute mile. You really don’t want to go off like a rocket and ruin your chances of a personal best, but it is tempting when the gun goes. I’m guilty of it too. So having a Garmin watch (Forerunner 310XT for me, see below) helps you control your pace. It has all I need to help plan, store, and analyse detailed training data. It is also durable and waterproof – great for multisports. The day was humid. Civil Defence volunteers hosed people down en route – how welcome was that! I may have struggled on the last strait but I finished the 10 miles with a PB of 1:06:22. Over 4,000 runners took part so there were lots of personal bests – always good to hear.

Hopefully, there will be many more Frank Duffy 2015 races to come. For all of you aiming for the Dublin half marathon, good luck!

Downpour does little to dampen triathlon spirits A FAVOURITE race on the Triathlon Ireland calendar was the Dublin City Triathlon which took place on August 26. The Olympic distance race consists of a 1.5km swim – 40km bike – 10km run. The Super Sprint distance race includes a 500m swim – 16km bike – 4km run. I’ve completed this a number of times and every year it is superbly organised. The goodie bags, the marshalls, the competitors, the food and after-race atmosphere – incomparable.

Unfortunately the weather was an unmitigated downpour which I guess is perfect weather for a swim but made it difficult for the cycle. No matter. Cold and wet as we were, the ice cream van serving a free soft scoop at finishing line was a welcome surprise because we had earned it! Dublin City Triathlon – see you in 2016!

 Maeve Halpin is a

registered counselling psychologist and editor / co-author of How to be Happy and Healthy, the Seven Natural Elements of Mental Health, published by Ashfield Press

DCT, Phoenix Park — Photo by Europcar

GAZETTE

24 GAZETTE 3 September 2015

OUT&ABOUT

MUSIC

DUBLIN DATE: PROMOTING NEW ALBUM

Well up for a show at The Workman’s Club  KEITH BELLEW

AUGUST Wells will perform live at The Workman’s Club on Sunday, September 13, as part of a tour to promote their first album: A Living and a Dying Game.

This week The Gazette spoke with band member Ken Griffin who first gained notoriety for his role in New York band Rollerskate Skinny.

Although a native Dubliner, Griffin has spent many years in the Big Apple, immersing himself in the music scene there.

He said this latest endeavour had a different sound to that which fans of his previous work will be used to.

“For me it’s like a continual tweaking and trying to get better at what I do. The original band I was with was Rollerskate Skinny and we were very experimental and noise based, with a huge wall of sound kind of thing. This is more intricate and intimate I think,” he said.

There are no drums on the album, he says, so when you listen to it you really have to just surrender yourself to it.

While there are no drums, one very interesting instrument that features on the album is the ominous French horn, played by Louis Schwadron.

“Louis’s a good friend of mine, who’s played with tons of people like Radiohead, Polyphonic Spree, people like that.

“It’s kind of a strange instrument it takes up a lot of room, I call it a landscape instrument.

“We used trumpet and saxophone in places, to try to take advantage of the fact that there’s so many amazing musicians in New York,” he said.

Speaking about the production of the album, Griffin said: “It’s eight songs. We home recorded it last year and mixed it in a big studio in New York, so that kind of gave us room to experiment with different musicians and overdubs and stuff. We recorded the vocals, guitar and piano live.”

The latest single from A Living and a Dying Game, Come On In Out of That Night, will be released on September 4.

For more information on August Wells at The Workman’s visit: theworkmansclub.com

August Wells will perform live at The Workman’s Club on Sunday, September 13

For their latest offering, What Went Down, Foals retreated to the south of France to record in a rural 19th-century mill. Picture: Neil Krug

FOALS: MELANCHOLY ALBUM FOUR DOESN’T DISAPPOINT

Beautiful pops songs add to band’s arsenal  COLM MURRAY

FOR album four, What We n t D ow n , F o a l s teamed up with producer James Ford (Arctic Monkeys, Florence and The Machine, Jessie Ware, Mumford and Sons) and retreated to the south of France to record in a rural 19th-century mill.

The result is a primal, sometimes harrowing album of extremes – touching the depths of madness while creating some of the most beautiful pop songs the band have ever written.

Lyrically, lead singer Yannis Philippakis deals with themes of cultural identity, generational anxiety, cynicism, pessimism and heartbreak; “I wanted to tap into my inner madman and feel like I was channelling some sort of fevered creature.”

Famously provocative, Philippakis is quick-

witted with a razor-sharp tongue.

Every record has been an affirmation of the band’s big time potential and they have only taken steps in the right direction. 2013’s Holy Fire was a fire-breathing monster, but it was mostly defined by the big tunes within – Inhaler and My Number.

Two songs raising the bar to new heights. But as it turns out these are not one trick ponies. What Went Down thinks bigger and hits harder than its predecessors – and the ambience of the studio certainly lends to the finished work.

And it does sound huge. What Went Down is a festival headliners’ album: 10 songs tailored for massive crowds, massive speakers and the kind of magical collective euphoria that sparks when everyone’s tanked up, loved up and covered in mud. Close your eyes

and you can see last summer’s Electric Picnic epic light show.

A monster of a track, What Went Down is a statement of intent and should cement Foals’ position as one of Britain’s most illustrious bands.

What Went Down is the most visceral song from Foals to date – it signals the return of a band who made their name in 2006 playing at house parties, and who, six years later, in 2013, morphed into festival headliners.

Mountain at My Gates follows with a slight shift in gears but no less intensity from vocalist Philippakis. The production qualities really shine through here and neat signature guitar melodies dovetailing nicely into the chorus – a real master in song writing.

There are no bouncy pop hits like My Number to keep things brisk (Night Swimmers comes

closest). Instead it’s all sound and fury – enough to make anyone a bit nostalgic for the old Foals.

Remember the perky riffs? The songs about mathletics? The tennis shorts? Instead, Philippakis exercises his demons on the rough and searing Albatross but just falling short of what could have been the album’s finest moment. Not unexpectedly, Foals go for the big finish with A Knife in the Ocean (nearly seven minutes). The track has a more settled feel. If What Went down is madness then this is acceptance, a track to lose yourself in.

Yet again Foals deliver a sumptuous album of beautifully crafted songs against a backdrop of melancholy and deathly juggernauts.

If they didn’t already have enough songs in their arsenal to top festival bills, they’ve just added 10 more.

3 September 2015 GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

GAMING

WEEBYTES

These teenagers won $6m playing DOTA2

Evil Geniuses win $6m for killing dragon KILLING a virtual dragon had a very real result for five teenagers recently, who scooped the top prize of $6.63m about €5.9m) at a global esports final.

The Pakistani members of Evil Geniuses defeated China in DOTA 2, a hugely popular (and potentially lucrative) game.

Millions of people watched their every move online as the teams battled it out, with a particularly tough dragon as their ultimate target. The prize fund exceeds the value of contests like the Tour de France.

 SHANE DILLON

THE Chinese Room’s PlayStation 4 exclusive, Everybody’s Gone To The Rapture (EGTTR), was

released recently to international critical acclaim – and a little derision, too.

Set in the mid-1980s in a small English village, birds sing in the trees, the sun shines brightly, flowers nod in the wind – and everybody, every-

where is gone, not just from Yaughton, but from the entire world, it seems.

Criticised by a few detractors as a glorified “walk-em-up”, you wander around deserted Yaughton, exploring its homes and businesses, and seeing signs of abruptly stopped human activity – but nobody is left to tell you what happened.

Well, almost nobody.

As you explore, mysterious darting golden balls and spirals of light occasionally lead you to key places and moments in the village’s recent past, briefly giving glimpses of the missing locals, several of whom you come to know well as you eavesdrop on snatches of their conversation from their final hours.

By hearing and observ-

ing these ordinary people facing increasingly extraordinary events, the game slowly draws the gamer into a world full of all kinds of emotion and reactions as you piece together what happened.

Here, you can see a little of Yaughton’s preserved prettiness, with the village representing one of the best-looking locales in all of gaming.

CREATING MUSIC FOR THE END OF THE WORLD WHILE many games still have pretty derivative soundtracks, there are several highly-lauded composers working in the medium, as is the case with EGTTR’s composer, Jessica Curry.

The Bafta-nominated British composer has an impressive track record, and for this game she faced a challenge of creating a soundtrack that was quintessentially English, yet also eerie and timeless.

As if that wasn’t enough of a chal-

lenge, she had to create a score that could be organically chopped up and blended together, to suit each player’s unpredictable journey around Yaughton and its environs.

Happily, the final work was another striking success for Curry, as she has created a highly pastoral work that blends a classical-sounding score with beautiful choral work.

In fact, her soundtrack created an unexpected controversy – it was

briefly ranked number eight in the British classical artist album charts – no mean feat for “just” a game soundtrack – before the powers that be reclassified her work, significantly altering its positioning.

For those looking to give their ears a treat, the soundtrack is available to buy as a digital download, or on CD, from Amazon and other music providers, and can also be listened to on several social media sites.

Angry Birds staff layoffs ALTHOUGH Rovio has a big budget Angry Birds animated movie coming out in 2016, the developer has just announced significant redundancies.

The developer has announced 260 job losses – some 38% of its remaining workforce – following 110 redundancies just before last Christmas.

Studio boss Pekka Rantala said: “Fundamental changes are needed to ensure Rovio succeeds in its global ambitions to be the leading entertainment company with mobile games at its heart.”

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3 September 2015 BLANCH GAZETTE 27

BLANCHCLASSIFIEDS PLANNING NOTICE

PLANNING NOTICE

FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL

FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL

Permission to convert the attic space to accommodate a bedroom, work will include amendments to internal layout; including new dormer window & 1no. roof light to the rear & all associated site works at No.8 Limelawn Wood, Clonsilla, Dublin 15 by Karen and Robert O’Toole.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 may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (20Euros) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of this application.

I Kate Relihan, is applying for Permission for a new Entrance Porch 1500mm wide to Front Elevation with a New Pitched Roof and a New Tiled Roof over Proposed Garage Conversion to the Side. At 58 Woodview Grove, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15. The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application

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PLANNING NOTICE

FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL

FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL

Planning Permission sought for Proposed single storey extension to rear / side with all associated internal alterations and site development works to dwelling house at 11 Mount Garrett Drive, Tyrellstown, Dublin 15 for Ciarán Clare & Sara Kelly. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of Fingal County Council, Planning Department during its public opening hours and a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on payment of a prescribed fee (20Euros) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

We, Lisa Foran and David Bernie, intend to apply for permission for development at this site 23 Burnell Park Green, Castleknock, Dubin 15. The development will consist of two storey extension to side and part two storey part single storey extension at rear of existing house along with 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 may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (20Euros) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of this application.

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Gazette

28 gazette 3 September 2015

SPORT Transition seamless for Shels

FastSport

soccer: north dublin clubs join forces as new wnl campaign nears

home farm old boy ian harte retires:

FORMER Home Farm schoolboy and Republic of Ireland international Ian Harte announced his retirement from professional football last week.

Home Farm was to be Harte’s last club in Ireland before the Drogheda native joined Leeds United for what turned out to be personally a highly successful decade or so at Elland Road.

Nominated in the PFA Team of the Year for the 1999/2000 season, other notable moments of Harte’s time at Leeds were reaching the semifinals of both the UEFA Champions League and the UEFA Cup, scoring a number of major goals along the way.

The dead-ball specialist played 63 times for Ireland, scoring 12 goals and was part of the 2002 World Cup squad. The nephew of Ireland team-mate Gary Kelly, he most recently helped Bournemouth reach the Premier League for the first time.

 NATHAN KELLy sport@dublingazette.com

the name and crest of his team may have changed in recent months, but Casey McQuillan’s focus remains the same as ever as another Women’s National League is set to kick off this month.

The amalgamation of Raheny United women’s side and Shelbourne FC’s underage girls into Shelbourne Ladies FC has been a rather smooth one. And now that the WNL is just days away from returning, attention can return action on the pitch rather than off it.

Speaking to GazetteSport in the week leading up to his side’s trip to face Galway in the first ever fixture of the newly formed WNL Shield, the Shelbourne head coach was excited to get under way.

“It was always an exciting time in the week lead-

The entrants for this season’s Women’s National League at the press launch

Shelbourne will aim to have as much success as they had in Raheny colours

ing up to the new season,” he said. “We’ve had a good break and now look forward to kicking off and being competitive again.

In terms of the amalgamation, it’s just something that made perfect sense.

Raheny were one of the biggest senior women’s teams and Shelbourne were one of the biggest underage clubs, so it just made sense to merge that into one.

“Obviously politics can cause some problems in football but the people who arranged this did a fine job. I suppose there had already been an unofficial link with Jamie Finn and Amanda McQuillan making the move last year,” the coach added.

Previewing his side’s trip to Galway for their

first competitive game of the season, McQuillan believes this newly formed Shield which splits the leagues into two regional groups, is a good idea. “As a coach I think your main focus is always the league, and this competition will provide some competitive games right up until the league begins in October,” he said.

“It also gives you the chance to try a couple of things ahead of the season against good opposition, who if you phoned up and asked for a preseason friendly would probably turn it down so as to not give anything away,” he added.

In between that trip to Galway and hosting Castlebar in the Shield, who they will also begin

their season against, Shels will play Peamount in a Dublin Derby in Tolka Park on Sunday, September 13.

That league curtainraiser in Castlebar comes on October 10 and while speaking to us, the Shelbourne manager offered his thought on how he thinks the race for the title will play out this season.

“I think the gap between the top teams and the rest of the league is getting smaller each year,” he said. “I think Wexford, UCD Waves and ourselves would be the bookies’ favourites but Galway have been improving every year, as have Castlebar so it should be competitive, I’m looking forward to a good season.”

Symmons enters European hockey’s Hall of Fame  sport@dublingazette.com

Irish hockey star Nikki Symmons. Picture: Adrian Boehm

DUBLINER Nikki Symmons became the latest addition to the European Hockey Federation Hall of Fame following her immaculate career.

The former Wesley College student and Loreto player was honoured as a record-breaker in Irish hockey, becoming the first player to pass the 200-cap mark and an inspiration for the sport in her country.

Reflecting on an international career that has spanned 13 years and 208 caps – including six

European championships – the Dubliner said: “Every time I put on the Irish shirt gave me great memories, not always good, but the bad also served as good memories to make me who I am today.

“I guess I gave my life to hockey for the love of the sport. There were many sacrifices I had to make and I think I inspired people by the way I went about giving it all I had on the pitch, especially near the end of my career. I was always striving to be the best I could be and to be a role model.”

And the 33-year-old is continu-

ing to help inspire new hockey fans through her work with the International Hockey Federation as a digital co-ordinator, promoting the sport to a whole new generation.

She won her first cap in 2001 against Wales and played all the way up until the 2013 European Championships in Belgium, taking in three Olympic qualification campaigns and three World Cup campaigns.

Since finishing her player, she has been nominated for the SportsAccord Sports Hero award, “an honour bestowed

upon an individual connected to sports who has inspired youths through his/hers achievements, actions or words”.

“I am extremely honoured to be inducted into the EuroHockey Hall of Fame. It is very exciting news for not only myself but my family, friends and Irish hockey.

“While I am still in a transition stage from being an athlete this has given me a huge boost and confidence as I further my career into the business side of sport.”

She becomes one of just five players to have been included in the Hall of Fame.

3 September 2015 gazette 29

Gazette

English blood, All Ireland dreams

Despite precious little Irish heritage to speak of, Hannah Noonan tells JAMES HENDICOTT she is now just a couple of games away from All-Ireland glory with Dublin’s footballers WHEN the Dublin ladies senior football side line up for their All-Ireland semifinal against Armagh on Saturday, September 5, there will be an unlikely face in the midst of the girls in blue.

Now established at Foxrock Cabinteely, Hannah Noonan is not only in her first year playing for an Irish club side, she’s come into the GAA county fray almost entirely through the relatively modest English system, and has no Irish heritage to speak of whatsoever.

In fact, speaking to Noonan in advance of the semi-final, it seems much of her past year has been dedicated to optimising her leftfield footballing career.

Having taken an AllIreland junior title with London in 2008 before arriving at Dublin, Noonan initially came to

GAA in Britain through the family of an Irish player on her rugby team, who suggested the sport might suit her at just 10 years old.

She only relocated to Dublin for a year’s sabbatical from a teaching job back in November, and came to manager Gregory McGonigle’s attention as a result of a seven-a-side tournament early this year, as well as word filtering back from London.

Having featured regularly throughout the campaign, she faces the unusual scenario of playing the coming semi-final knowing it’s likely to be both her first and last.

Unsurprisingly, her determination and focus come across as intense: “We’re confident” Noonan tells GazetteSport. “The girls are working extremely hard, and there’s a good buzz in the camp. We’re

very focused. There’s a lot of work being done by management and the girls, in our own time as well as on the training pitch “Our attitude is that if we can go out there and prepare ourselves the best we possibly can, we’ll get there.

“We’re not really worried about the other team. We’re aware of what Armagh are doing, of certain ways they play, and of their kick outs, but we’re just going to try and go out and put in a performance.

“If we play our best we’ll come out with a win. Our game plan is to go out and hit them as hard as we can from the off.”

It’s the route that’s bought Noonan to this point that showcases her determination, though, and she admits it’s been a leap in quality joining

Hannah Noonan attempts to escape a tackle in the quarter-final victory over Monaghan last week

Dublin, if one she’s able to deal with.

“Moving from London to Dublin is a huge step,” she says of her new role.

“It’s a very professional set up here. I’ve learnt a lot from the girls and the management. I was thrown in the deep end, but the girls have been

“Whether we’re starting or not, the panel is there to make an impact. We might make four or five changes, and they’ll do a job. I don’t think it’s worth even looking at [awaiting finalists] Cork yet.

“We’re 60 minutes away from that final, but Armagh are an out-

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

‘For me, I’ve got one shot and I will be leaving everything on the pitch and Dublin to go all the way’ - Hannah Noonan --------------------------------------------------------

very supportive.

“People check you understand what’s going on. There’s been a lot of advice in terms of nutrition, and recovery between training sessions. It’s tough mentally and physically. But it’s a step I’m so glad I took.”

At this level, though, nothing can be taken for granted, and while the bookies might have Dublin as favourites, the Girls in Blue are counting no chickens.

“Obviously Armagh are a strong outfit,” Noonan says. “We’re not really listening to anything anyone says about us outside the camp. Inside the camp, players are players, and the management let us do our thing. We’ve got a few more training sessions, then we’ll learn the team.”

standing team, and we’ll take each minute as it comes.”

An All-Ireland semi-final is an opportunity and a pressure point for everyone involved: one game away from a shot at glory.

For Noonan, though, this game and the one that could follow are the only ones that matter. Next year is earmarked for travel; it’ll happen now, or not at all.

“I’m fully aware that All-Ireland semi finals don’t come around easily,” she says, “and that some of these girls have been working for years to get to this position.

“It’s not about me, but for me it’s probably going to be a one-year thing.

For me I’ve got one shot.

I’ll be leaving everything on the pitch. I just want to see Dublin go all the way.”

FastSport

O’Donoghue on double as hockey team make history TEMPLEOGUE native Shane O’Donoghue, pictured with Kyle Good, fired home two set piece goals for the Irish men’s hockey team as they made history, winning the bronze medal the EuroHockey Championships.

It was the first time Ireland have won an elite level medal of any description, doing so by beating England 4-2 in London in breathless style last Saturday, finishing third in a competition that featured four of the world’s top five nations.

Previously, Ireland had eliminated world number five side Belgium and France in the group stages before falling 1-0 to number two ranked the Netherlands. The Dutch would later go on to win the final 6-1 against Germany.

Speaking afterwards, coach Craig Fulton’s belief that his team would win was unshakeable before the tie. So much so, he conducted an interview with himself before the 4-2 win over England in London, practising what he would say when, not if, his side got the better of the world number five side.

“Before the game, we were really confident.

I came into the interview room and talked through an interview with myself as if we had won the game. This is how we played and how we won. I said we had scored two out of three corners. Today we scored three!

“It’s just reward for the performances from the guys,” Fulton added. “It’s no flash in the pan.”

In the third place playoff, England led twice but goals from O’Donoghue and Alan Sothern, another Dubliner, made it 2-2 at half-time.

Eugene Magee then rifled into the top corner early in the second half to allow Ireland a glimpse of glory.

On a knife-edge until the final seconds, Ireland survived plenty of drama before O’Donoghue added an extra gloss three seconds from time from the penalty spot when Iain Lewers hauled down Kirk Shimmins for a penalty stroke.

It confirmed the medal and concluded the playing side of things for Ireland’s best ever year.

They now wait on October 25 when they will find out if they qualify for the Olympic Games for the first time since 1908.

Gazette

30 BLANCH gazette 3 September 2015

SPORT

FastSport

Soccer: Croft chip denies glenville victory for lsl new boys

Castleknock man aids Aussie Rules victory CASTLEKNOCK Community College teacher Kevin Brennan was part of the South Dublin Swans side that won the 2015 Australian Rules Football League of Ireland (ARFLI) Grand Final after a nail biting final against last year’s champions, the Belfast Redbacks, on Saturday last in Belfast.

With less than a minute remaining in the final quarter, the Redbacks had one last chance to retain their crown but a close in mark from a tight angle by Redbacks’ Australian full forward Andrew Hickey yielded just a behind rather than the goal required.

If they had goaled, it would have been tough on the Swans who led for the majority of the game.

The Belfast Redbacks had been the dominant Irish team throughout most of the season but, on the day that mattered most, it was the Swans that triumphed.

The Redbacks started the game the better and had a one goal advantage at the end of the first quarter. By half-time the Swans had recovered and went into the main break with a 11-point lead, 3-7 (25) to 2-2 (14). The Redbacks knew they had a challenge on their hands and came back hard in the second half, but the stoic Swans held out for a thrilling two-point victory, winning 6-9 (45) to 6-7 (43).

Swans 200cm tall ruckman Paul O’Halloran set the platform for victory winning the majority of hit outs and he was well supported in midfield

by Cork man Michael Hurley who ran tirelessly throughout the game and at full back by James O’Byrne.

The Redbacks never stopped trying with Irish international David McElhone and Kyle Devine their most impressive players on the day. Devine who previously played in Australia scored two goals and was awarded best on ground.

Swans’ goals on the day came from Mayo man Kevin Brennan with two, and one each for former Dublin GAA star Manus Breathnach, Perrystown based Martin Ryan, Aussie Bryce Fraser and Trinity College researcher Omar Mamad, the first Moroccan to win an Irish premiership.

For the Swans, it is their fifth premiership (also 2006, 2010, 2011, 2013) and the result makes up for last year’s defeat to the Redbacks.

St Mochta’s salvaged a late draw against Glenville in their first ever LSL Sunday Senior fixture

Saints snatch late draw sport@dublingazette.com

TEN-MAN St Mochta’s hit back for an unlikely draw against fellow LSL Senior Sunday Division new boys Glenville on Sunday, August 30, hitting an 95th minute leveller to make it two points from two games in their new division.

Glenville looked hot favourites when – with 10 minutes remaining – Bobby Cullen hit his third goal in the opening two games of the season to give Glenville a 2-1 lead. It was a double whammy for Mochta’s, with Cullen’s penalty award also see-

ing Mochta’s keeper Murphy shown a red card for dragging down an opposition striker.

Cullen found the top corner with an impressive penalty to seemingly put Glenville in charge.

Ian Croft had other ideas, however, and chipped an advancing Glenville keeping in the dying seconds to rescue a point for Porterstown club Mochta’s, who now sit in sixth place early in the new season.

Earlier, David Somers had opened the scoring for Mochta’s, tapping in from a square ball from O’Connor, who had

autograph session Golden moment for young Ireland fans robbie Keane was on hand to sign autographs to participants during the FAI Golden Camp, a summer camp run by the FAI for season ticket holders who participated in the Sports World Summer Soccer Schools Programme.

The Tallaght man was in Abbotstown this week as preparations build for two crucial European qualifiers against Gibraltar and Georgia over the wweekend.

Picture: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile

beaten the offside trap.

The lead wasn’t to last long, with Glenville pulling the visitors back with a Stephen Klinch goal shortly after the opener.

The home side felt slightly aggrieved at the result, however, having claimed an unawarded penalty, and had a goal disallowed during the course of the match.

Both sides have started the season well, however, and will be odds on to maintain their new-found top-division status.

Elsewhere, Corduff star ted their season with two matches in

quick succession in the past week, starting the campaign with a 5-0 win over Castlepark before succumbing 2-0 to Ardmore on Tuesday evening in the LSL Sunday Major 1A division.

T he club’s second Sunday team, meanwhile, started their season with a 3-1 win over Booth Road Celtic with goals scored by Damian Flood, Jordan Abbey and Glen Morgan, making for a good start to the campaign for the squad managed by Karl Nolan and Phil Balfe.

Corduff were also happy to see one of their products make

a big move with Matthew Keogh moving to the Drogheda United Under-19 elite panel.

Keogh has been a player with Corduff since the age of nine and moved on at 17 to take on the League of Ireland route.

He follows in the footsteps of series of players from the club who have moved on to league of Ireland and England in recent times.

Hartstown Huntstown were 6-2 winners in their LSL Sunday Major season opener with both Ian and Derek Roche on the mark in the victory over Mid Sutton.

3 September 2015 BLANCH gazette 31

Gazette

ladies football: st brigid’s star eyes final spot

Club Noticeboard castleknock GOOD luck to Ciaran and the Dublin

All club gear including tracksuits,

team in the semi-final replay against

jerseys, hurleys, sliotars, shorts,

Mayo this Saturday evening.

socks, jackets can be fitted and pur-

As a result of the Dublin/Mayo

chased.

replay, we have postponed our family

Best wishes and a big thank you to

fun day which will now take place on

our club coach Brendan Phelan who

Saturday, September 19 with a wide

has left us after eight years great

range of activities, entertainment

service. We wish him well in his new

and games for all ages. Admission

career.

is free – why not bring a friend and introduce them to the club.

The club nursery is back up and running at Tir na nOg (beside Castle-

See details on the website of the Ultimate Ladies’ Night Out fundraiser, happening in the Castleknock Hotel on October 22.

knock Community College) every Sat-

The club are delighted to be hosting

urday morning from 10am-11.30am. All

Strictly Dancing Part 2 this November.

new players (aged four and upwards)

More details to follow.

and families welcome - for further

There were 13 Match 3 winners of

Sorcha Furlong in action against Monaghan. Picture: GAAPics.com

info contact Louise Mahony on 085

our weekly lotto draw on Thursday,

Furlong takes on role of experienced leader

1534270.

numbers drawn were: 4, 6, 9 and 13.

 james hendicott sport@dublingazette.com

AMONG the rejuvenated young Gregory McGonigle squad that has taken Dublin’s senior women to the All Ireland semi-final, St Brigid’s Sorcha Furlong plays the surprising role of elder statesman.

It’s been a fast change: Dublin fell at the quarter final stage in 2012 and 2013, and lost out by a point to a fierce Cork comeback in 2014’s final.

Dublin haven’t taken home an All-Ireland since an almost entirely different Dublin squad also starring centre back Furlong - took the title back in 2010.

“I might actually be the oldest person in the squad at 29,” Furlong tells GazetteSport. “I remember back in 2010 it felt a little bit like this, but obviously I’m on the older end of the scale now. It’s a bit scary at times but they keep me young and keep competition for places strong.

“The physical demands now are so tough, it’s comforting to know that

if things aren’t going right for you on the day, or if you find yourself wrecked after 40 minutes, someone else could come in and do just as well, or better. There’s huge competition for places.”

While a possible final against Cork is still considered too distant to speak of, it’s clear that anticipation is building fast, with Furlong confident that the young side have the qualities to do the job on the day.

“Once you get over the quarter final hurdle, the excitement really starts to build. The atmosphere in the camp is good.”

“I’d be quite a competitive person, “ Furlong adds. “I don’t like to think I’m not as good as the younger ones. The competition with so many good young girls makes the rest of us work that much harder.

“Some of the younger girls have huge leadership qualities. Goalkeeper Chiara Trant would be great at talking to the team and organising, for example. Carla Rowe, who is still under 21, also

tends to grab the game by the scruff of the neck.”

As for preparation, the girls are ready for anything Armagh might throw at them, assisted a little by McGonigle’s college football inside track on the Armagh side they’ll face for that coveted spot.

“The girls on the team would be savvy enough to record anything that’s on TG4, and the management team are great at preparing us for the game, so we’d know what to expect,” Furlong explains.

The team will be hoping to grab a few Dublin fans on their way to the men’s game on Saturday.

“T he game’s been moved to 2pm [on September 5] at Parnell Park, to accommodate the Dublin v Mayo game in Croke Park. Personally I think there’s a lot more football, a lot less off-theball stuff in the women’s game. I “t’d be great if people would come to see that.

Hopefully we might pick up a few extra supporters on their way there.”

The Castleknock GAA clubshop is

New jackpot prize now €6,000.

open every Saturday morning from

For all club fixtures, news etc go to

10am to 11.30am at the nursery in

www.castleknock.net and follow us

CCC.

on Twitter @CastleknockGAA.

Erin Go bragh THANKS to everyone who supported

to play Gaelic football for fun and

our barbecue family fun day on Sat-

anyone is welcome be it beginner

urday. Thanks to Margaret O’Reilly

or past player. Just simply turn up

and all who organised and made the

on the night or contact Ciara on 087

day a success.

9147154.

Our juvenile teams have returned

Our adult ladies football and

to action. Well done to all our teams

camogie teams are looking for play-

in action over the weekend.

ers. Call Ciara on 087 9147154.

Well done to our U-8 hurlers v

Our men’s teams are alwa ys

Raheny. Hard luck to our U-12 hurl-

looking for players. Anyone inter-

ers who lost to eventual winners

ested in playing football can call Pat

Erin’s Isle in their camaint semi

on 087 7642155. Anyone interested

final.

in playing hurling can contact Karl

Hard luck to our U-13 footballers and well done to our U-14 footballers on their games this week.

Our U-9 girls are looking for new players. Call Maria on 087 2380741.

Our U-14 ladies football team are looking for new players. Call Linda on 087 9785053.

on 087 2352074.

There was no winner of our weekly lotto. Numbers drawn were 1, 20, 23 and 28. Well done to our €20 prize winners: E Rodrigues, P Caulfield, D Caffery, D Stephens and P Smyth.

Our weekly lotto takes place every Friday. Tickets on sale at

Well done to our U-16 camogie

training and also in The Paddocks,

team who beat Ballinteer St John’s

The Vineyard, The Grasshopper and

in the camogie championship.

The Strawberry Hall for €2 each or

Tr aining con tinue s Tue sda ys

three for €5. We also have an annual

and Thursdays 8-9pm in Hunter’s

subscription option. Call Tom on 087

Run. This is for women who want

2245823.

naomh peregrine’s A PULSATING draw in Croke Park last

The minor hurlers start their cham-

lin squad and best of luck in the replay

pionship campaign this Sunday on the

on Saturday.

club pitch at 11am v Whitehall Colmcille,

Another great car boot sale was had at the club last Sunday; thanks to all who helped out.

Making a block against Laois

the stand.

Sunday; well done to Eric and the Dub-

all support welcome.

Fundraising tickets are now due back to the club, some great prizes to

Well done to the senior footballers

be had so all members please sell what

on their vital league win last Sunday,

you can. Lotto was not won no’s drawn

great support from club members in

were 13, 17, 25 and 26.

GazetteSPORT all of your blanch sports coverage from page 28-31

The equaliser: St Mochta’s Croft strikes late to earn the Porterstown club share of LSL spoils P30

september 3-9, 2015

noonan’s all-ireland call: Londoner’s one time deal to land title with Dublin P29

Dublin senior football manager Jim Gavin

Gavin’s errors concern Large Dublin 15 contingent to play key role in return match between Dublin and Mayo following last Sunday’s fractious battle in Croke Park

 james hendicott

sport@dublingazette.com

JIM Gavin is confident the Dublin senior footballers will come back strong, after Mayo overcame a seven-point deficit in the final 10 minutes to draw at Croke Park last Sunday, August 30.

Despite the comeback and being down to 14 men, the Dubs had a 74th minute chance to put the semi-final to bed, with Stephen Cluxton missing a makeable free with what was almost the last kick of the match.

The side had a long local element to it with St Oliver Plunkett’s Eoghan Ruadh brothers Bernard (0-2) and Alan Brogan (0-1) both

on the mark while Castleknock’s Ciaran Kilkenny cleared the bar three times. St Brigid’s Paddy Andrews nicked in within another score while their importance will be ramped up in the absence of Diarmuid Connolly next time around due to suspension for his red card.

St Peregrine’s Eric Lowndes was a late entrant to the game when he came on for Denis Bastick in the wake of his black card.

Gavin feels the big game experience – which has been sorely lacking for Dublin since the championship got under way – will stand to the Boys in Blue in the replay.

“Mayo played well and came at us hard,” Gavin said. “They got a couple of frees and scores. It was an exciting game. Technically

there were a lot of errors in it.

“For our part that game will do us the world of good. We haven’t experienced that intensity all season, it was four weeks since our last game and we will be the better team for it the next day.”

Gavin also commented on Mayo’s comeback, giving the Connacht side credit despite the metropolitan’s disappointing finish.

“Yeah, I think it would have been 10, 12 minutes to go [that Dublin had a seven point lead], with the added time which you factor in for championship games. We were delighted to have been in that position for the last quarter, but Mayo are one of the top teams in the country and they came back well.”

“We were a man down [due to Diarmuid

Connolly’s red card]; I thought we rallied hard, showed good composure and took some great scoring opportunities.

“We had some frees, didn’t take them – that’s the nature of the game, I think we only had one from frees in the end. That’s one area to work on.”

On that last minute miss from Cluxton, Gavin was also magnanimous.

“It is well within his range,” said Gavin. “It’s just one of those things. He’ll be back. He is a very strong man mentally and if the opportunity arises I am sure he will take it the next day.”

Dublin and Mayo will face off again this Saturday, September 5, with kick off in Croke Park at 5pm.