Blanch 10 3 16

Gazette BLANCH

INSIDE: The GPO’s superb new €10m visitor centre

adds a stamp of approval to The Rising’s legacy P13

Snap to it: Social media darling James Kavanagh talks about his busy life, online and off Page 15

Gallery: Alison Canavan’s book has some model advice for new mums to follow Page 12

sport Soccer:

Castleknock shade derby with Mochta’s Page 30

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March 10 - 16, 2016

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The best things in life are FREE!

creative kids on the write track for success

Local budding authors, aged nine to 12, launched two new literary magazines recently at an event in Castleknock Community Centre in Laurel Lodge. Plenty of copies of The Bookshelf and Crazy Cookies magazines were snapped up, which ensured that they could cover their printing costs and even chalk up a profit. The 16 emerging writers wrote and illustrated the publications during an eightweek introductory course run

by Castleknock Creative Writing.

Readers interested in purchasing copies of the magazines can find further information over at www. castleknockcreativewriting.com.

Negative comments hold no sway with Jack

Deputy Chambers (FF) has received a torrent of personal abuse on social media sites

 Ian Begley

NEWLY-elected TD Jack Chambers (FF) said he does not read the upsurge of negative comments about him online and expressed that he would rather focus his atten-

tion on local and national issues instead.

Deputy Chambers, aged 25, has been receiving a torrent of abuse on social media, directed at his appearance, his views and upbringing, since he was elected and after he pub-

licly announced that he is pro-life.

Speaking to The Gazette, he said: “Although I’ve heard about what people are saying about me online, I haven’t been looking [at the comments].

“I’m obviously a young-

er person in politics, but I’m also thick-skinned and have made sure to separate my attention from the commentar y about me online to more important issues at hand.”

Full Story on Page 4

2 BLANCH Gazette 10 March 2016

festival | theme is 1916/2016 Commemorations

St Patrick’s parade promises even more  Ian Begley

Peter and Louise O’Neill with daughters Casey and Molly are pictured enjoying the parade

Following on from the hugely successful St Patrick’s Day parade in Blanchardstown last year, the council will again host a festive and colourful event.

The Dublin 15 parade this year will see a huge range of community groups taking part, including sports, cultural, and ethnic groups representing the different nationalities living in the area.

Amid the festivities there will also be food, Irish dancing and children’s activities.

The Blanchardstown parade will star t at 2.30pm at the Bell Pub and will make its way through the main street i n B l a n c h a r d s t ow n towards its finishing point at The Blanchardstown Centre.

According to Fingal, the aim of this event is to highlight community and local action across the constituency and to provide a way for families to come out and enjoy the parade.

This year’s theme is the 1916/2016 Commemorations, with parades taking place all over the county.

Pipe bands, dancing, community/sporting groups and an array of colourful floats, carousels, entertainment and street performers will fill the streets in each location.

The Foroige Youth Service in Blanchardstown has been granted funds to create a 1916 project based on Joe Duffy’s book “The Chil-

dren of the Rising”. 38 young people, representing various cultures and ethnicities from Dublin 15, will walk in the parade, each holding a large helium balloon (in green, white and orange).

From 11am to 6pm, the Blanchardstown shopping centre will also host a line-up of St Patrick’s Day celebrations including Irish dancing, traditional Irish musicians, free face painting, free candyfloss and lots more for all the family to enjoy. You might even meet a Leprechaun or two.

In addition, St Peregrine’s GAA club is encouraging local residents and those visiting Blanchardstown to spend the morning of St Patrick’s Day with them.

The club will have their annual sponsored walk followed by traditional music, Irish dancing and face painting.

Their Feile team are also having a cake sale and raffle and after the Blanchardstown Parade people are invited back to the club for dinner and drinks.

Cllr Paul Donnelly (SF) said: “I believe that we can all join together in making this year’s parade an even greater success.”

Fingal County Council are expecting a large turnout again this year, and are advising people to visit Fingal.ie for information on road closures and parking arrangements, and to follow them on twitter, @fingalcoco and @eventsinfingal for updates.

Dublin Gazette Newspapers, Second Floor, Heritage House, Dundrum Office Park, Dublin 14 Tel: 01 - 6010240. Email: sales@dublingazette.com news@dublingazette.com web: www.dublingazette.com twitter: @DublinGazette Visit us on Facebook at DublinGazetteNewspapers

FastNews Scholarships for students 20 students from North Dublin have been presented with a €1,000 academic scholarship to study at Dublin City University. The scholarships were awarded to the students in recognition of achieving 550 points or more in their Leaving Certificate.

Students from Castleknock Community College; Loreto College; St Paul’s Raheny; Holy Faith Secondary School, Clontarf; Belvedere College; Ardscoil Ris; St Aidan’s CBS; Manor House School; Coolmine Community School; Our Lady of Mercy College; Skerries Community College; and Malahide Community College all received the award.

Awardees were joined at a special presentation ceremony at the Helix by their parents and former school principals on February 15. In total, over €100,000 worth of scholarships were presented to fresher students at DCU.

Seachtain na Gaeilge festival The council hosted an Oiche Soisialta – an informal social evening in the Atrium, County Hall to mark the beginning of the Seachtain na Gaeilge festival which takes place until March 17.

The evening featured traditional music from Sean McElwain and Donal McCague and singing as Gaeilge from Deirdre Hurley. The event was attended by both Fingal staff and Irish language enthusiasts from the Fingal area and they were happy to join in by singing and dancing on the night.

For more information on events taking place during Seachtain na Gaeilge, visit www.fingal.ie/ events or contact your Local library.

10 March 2016 BLANCH Gazette 3

integration | ‘I’m looking forward to continuing my work in Ireland’

volunteers

Focus on Foroige

Making a difference is Albert’s priority  Paul Doyle

Youth worker and man of faith Albert Wakili moved to Ireland two months ago to try and make a difference in the lives of Blanchardstown’s incredibly ethnically diverse Methodist congregation, and community.

Based in Blanchardstown Methodist Church, Albert is a global mission fellow of the United Methodist General Board of Global Ministries, and is engaged in a two-year term of service.

Albert works with the church’s youth ministry committee and mission team in summer and after school ministries, as well as in the training and use of volunteers.

He also relates the work at Blanchardstown to other Methodist churches and educational programs in the area.

“I’m doing a lot of work with integrating the African community, and my experience in Africa University really helped with that,” he says, speaking with The Gazette.

Albert says that he has been influenced by the positive outlooks and helpful nature of missionaries who have visited his community over the years, and now wants to do the same for other people.

“Their great acts of kindness and selfless service,” he says, in his United Methodist Congress profile, “gave me a

desire to be part of that work and bring joy to other people”.

Albert finished his studies in Africa University in Zimbabwe in 2015, and moved to Ireland shortly thereafter.

“I’m really looking forward to continuing my work here in Ireland,” he says.

“The response has been very positive to the work that I am doing. In Zimbabwe, I met people from all over Africa, and I think that has helped with engaging with such a diverse community.

“I’m very much hoping to have a positive impact, and so it’s going well; to be honest, the most challenging thing I’ve experienced is the weather!”

high note for fundraisng

Good Works Opera, a non-profit organisation that raises funds for charities through music and song, recently presented two organisations with cheques from their fundraising activities. Local charity Home-Start and the Irish Motor Neurone Disease received €4,260. Home-Start is a family support service that is located opposite Peregrines GAA club on Blakestown Road, Mulhuddart. By using a buddy system, they help parents to deal with what life throws at them at the start of life.

The funds raised will go towards developing a specialised play area for the children that attend the service. The Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association will use the funds to help them maintain and improve the service they offer to people recently diagnosed with motor neurone disease. This service includes equipment, visiting nurses and support with the diagnosis. Pictured are Noreen Behan, Kate O’Callaghan, Maeve O’Leary, Mary Troy, Marion O’Hara, Joan Ashbrook and Rachel Devlin.

SOME 27 volunteers representing Dublin attended the 46th National Volunteers’ Conference of Foroige, Ireland’s leading youth organisation, which took place recently.

Volunteers from Blanchardstown, North Dublin, Tallaght and Templeogue were present at the conference, which was held in Hotel Westport in Co Mayo on the last weekend of February.

They were amongst more than 220 Foroige volunteers from all over the country who took part, themed ‘Young People in 2016 – Shaping Ireland’s Future’.

Chairperson of Foróige Michael Lynskey said: “Our volunteers help equip young people with the skills, knowledge and attributes they need to lead the best lives that they possibly can and we are truly grateful.”

4 BLANCH Gazette 10 March 2016

COURTS: tragedy sparked drug abuse

Man jailed for three years after stealing cash register A DRUG addict who stole an empty cash register in an attempt to repay a debt has been jailed for three years.

Daryl Mooney (26) took a knife from his family home to rob the store where he ripped out a cash register that had not been in use, leaving the register containing cash behind.

Mooney, of Whitestown Park, Mulhuddart, Dublin pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to robbery at Whitestown Stores, Whitestown Avenue, Mulhuddart on October 7, 2014.

Judge Melanie Greally noted Mooney had a difficult background and had responded to challenges in his life by abusing drugs. She said he was making efforts to address his issues and showing signs of getting of top of things.

Judge Greally imposed a four year sentence and suspended the final year.

She ordered two years probation supervision.

Garda Niall Phelan told John Fitzgerald BL, prosecuting, that the sole staff member fled the shop after Mooney, who had his hoodie up and was armed with a knife,

came behind the counter and demanded money.

The staff member alerted the owner who rang gardaí.

Mooney ripped a cash register out, and brought the entire register with him. It cost the shop €1,000 to replace.

Gardaí acting on confidential information arrested Mooney later that day. He made full admissions and apologised for the offence, telling gardaí he had been under pressure to repay a €300 debt.

Gda Phelan agreed with Seoirse O Dunlaing BL, defending, that Mooney had not been waving or lunging with the knife and had been intoxicated when he was later arrested.

Mr O Dunlaing said Mooney’s drug use began following a family tragedy when he was 14 years old, and that over the years Mooney had been getting straight custodial sentences with little in terms of structure to stay on the straight and narrow. He sought to better himself in 2011 by going to residential drug treatment but relapsed into offending after the death of his brother.

Daryl Mooney pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to robbery

Jack Chambers canvassing with Former Fianna Fail ministers Mary O’Rourke and Conor Lenihan

politics | appearance, views, upbringing criticised

Chambers has no time for negative comments  Ian Begley

N e w ly- e l e c t e d TD Jack Chambers (FF) said he does not read the upsurge of negative comments about him online and expressed that he would rather focus his attention on local issues and those of national importance.

Chambers, aged 25, received a total 8,315 votes in Dublin West and has become one of the youngest TDs in the new Dail.

However, upon his succession and since he publicly announced that he was pro-life during the People’s Debate, Chambers has been receiving a torrent of abuse on social media, directed at his appear-

ance, his views, and upbringing.

Commenting on the negative comments, Deputy Chambers told The Gazette: “This is the nature of the modern media and politics.

Although I’ve heard about what people are saying about me online, I haven’t been looking at them.

“There’s a lot more people in more difficult situations than me and I’d prefer if the attention was focused on their issues instead. “ I ’m o b v i o u s l y a younger person in politics, but I’m also thick skinned and I’ve made sure to separate my attention from the commentary about me online to more impor-

tant issues at hand.

“If you were to spend your time reading commentary about yourself you’ll be forever at it and distract yourself from the core issues.

“People will always make comments about a person whether they’re in sport, politics or any other profession so I just get on with it,” he said.

Asked to reiterate his stance on abortion and whether the Government should repeal the 8th amendment, Chambers said that although he is pro-life he respects everyone’s opinions.

“I respect everyone’s views, it’s a very personal issue. It’s a freedom of conscience so people have different positions on it.

“But at the end of the day it’s not me who decides on it – that’s for the Oireachtas.”

Chambers, who added that he voted yes in the marriage referendum last year, said that health, homelessness and education, are three of the major issues that he intends to address now that he’s in the Dail.

“There are a lot of people who have been left behind in the current health system and recent figures have shown that we have an absolute crisis in our health sector.

“T here’s also lots of concern around the local community regarding cuts to special education and learning resources.

“Many schools have had their allocations removed and undermined. I want to put a stop to this and make sure that the allocation for learning resources are based on need rather than standardised tests.”

Asked how he feels about the other three candidates elected for Dublin West, Chambers said: “I respect all of my colleagues.

“People were elected from different parties and have different viewpoints, but they have all put in a lot of work into their constituency and I will look forward to working with them on local issues and also in the national interest in Dail Eireann.”

10 March 2016 BLANCH Gazette 5

6 BLANCH Gazette 10 March 2016

Campaign for post office launched  PAUL DOYLE

SINN Fein are launching a campaign on March 12 with the aim of getting a new post office in the Centra shop in the Corduff Shopping centre, it has been announced.

The party says it hope to get as much support as it can, with the aim of presenting a minimum of 1,000 signatures in a petition to An Post.

There has been a consistent call for a post office in Corduff, as the area has expanded in recent years, with the addition of hundreds of

houses and apartments i n B l a n c h a r d s t ow n Heath and Waterville, said a statement from Cllr Paul Donnelly (SF).

There are also plans for new developments along the Old Corduff lane that will see a further expansion of the population.

The area has also seen a huge increase in senior citizens and young families, who would hugely benefit from the services provided by a post office, the statement went on to say.

Speaking with The Gazette, Cllr Donnelly said: “A new post office

was an issue that was raised to us while canvassing this year. A lot of elderly people were saying they find it difficult to get to the nearest post offices, which are in Mulhuddart and Blanchardstown.

“About ten years ago, the post office in Corduff closed, but with the new Centra, and developments, there’s more footfall in the area – and the owners of the Centra have said they’d be more than happy to host a new one.

“We’re confident we’ll get more than 1,000 signatures,” he said.

The Hartstown/Huntstown Road – the location where a woman was fatally struck by a car in January - will get €40,000 for traffic-calming measures. Picture: Google Maps

fingal | €40k for traffic-calming measures

Dublin 15 is set for major works  Ian Begley

2016 will see a significant amount of maintenance work completed in Dublin 15 as part of the Fingal Works Programme, including €40,000 for traffic-calming measures on the Hartstown/Huntstown Road – the location where a woman was fatally struck by a car in January.

Many of the works, which were directly requested by residents, will amount to a total of €2.3m for this year; €600,000 for surface restoration improvement works, €200,000 for surface restoration; €250,000 for minor works, €250,000 for traffic management, €965,000 for parks and €37,000 for public lighting.

The sub-total for the surface restoration and improvement works (€800,000) – will go on Clonsilla, Mountview,

Carpenterstown and Snugborough roads, Castleknock Laurels, Westway, Corduff, Ashfield Court, Mulhuddart and Briarwood.

As part of the minor works improvements programme, the following areas will receive footpath repairs: Blanchardstown (€25,000), Castleknock (€25,000), Clonsilla (€25,000) , Corduff (€30,000), Hartstown/Huntstown (€25,000), Carpenterestown (€25,000), Mountview/Blakestown (€45,000), Mulhuddart (€25,000) and Porters t ow n / L u t t r e l s t ow n (€25,000).

As part of the traffic management schemes for 2016, €50,000 will go towards a pedestrian crossing at Old Navan Road, Blakestow n Road and €45,000 for a pedestrian crossing at Ladyswell Road, Mulhuddart.

2016 will also see a

number of traffic-calming measures and ramp installations and repairs introduced.

The areas that will receive traffic-calming measures include Hartstown/Huntstown Road and Waterville Distributor Road (€25,000).

Ramps will be installed at Phibblestown Road (€25,000); Sycamore Avenue, Carpenterstown (€16,000); Castlecurragh Distributor Road (€4,000) and Ramor Park, Blanchardstown will receive €4,000 for ramp repair.

Commenting on the traffic-calming measures, Cllr Paul Donnelly (SF) said: “I would like to also welcome the traffic-calming measures along the Hartstown/ Huntstown loop. It is sad that it took another tragic death over the Christmas period to get this funding.

“However, I am concerned that they appear

to have ruled out providing chicanes – one of the most effective traffic-calming measures.

There is acceptance that we cannot put in speed bumps due to the bus route.,” he said.

As part of the traffic safety measures being introduced, the Ongar roundabout/Allendale will receive €12,000 for anti-skid installation, Huntstown/Hartstown Ring Road will get €8,000 for solar flashing signs and Porterstown Church and Playing Fields will receive €6,000 for solar flashing signs.

As part of the parks capital programme, a number of local parks will benefit from a significant funding for various works; Porterstown Park (€100,000), Millennium Park (€100,000) and €60,000 for continued improvement to neighbourhood parks in Castleknock/Mulhuddart.

10 March 2016 BLANCH Gazette 7

Fingal County Council chief executive Paul Reid is urging the public to get involved with the new draft development plan for Fingal’s administrative area

consultation | Fingal Development Plan 2017-2023

Public views sought on community’s future  Ian Begley

THE council has launched a public consultation on a new Draft Development Plan for its administrative area and is seeking the views of members of the public and community groups by April 29.

Due to come into effect next year, the Fingal Development Plan 20172023 will be the primary planning policy document against which all forms of proposed development in the county will be assessed by the council and An Bord Pleanala.

In simple terms, the plan will determine where housing, industry, infrastructure and community facilities can be developed and to what scale.

Some key features of the Plan include: Adequate residential zoned lands to potentially accommodate 49,500 housing units over

the coming years through the development of wellplanned sustainable communities.

It also seeks to recognise Swords and Blanchardstown as the county’s primary growth centres and will identify the strategic national importance of Dublin Airport and also support the provision of enhanced road and public transport networks including the proposed New Metro North.

A rural planning policy was also included in the plan, which balances the needs of rural communities and protects the natural environment as a key resource for the tourism and agri-food industries.

It’s urban planning policy promotes the development of strong, dynamic and thriving urban centres as places

of commerce and social interaction in the community and a policy framework was featured that supports investment in infrastructure to enhance the county’s competitiveness and attractiveness as a place to do business.

Speaking at the launch of the public consultation on the Plan, council chief executive Paul Reid urged interested groups and individuals to have their say: “The Draft Fingal Development Plan supports the development of enterprise, tourism, and sustainable communities, as well as the provision of necessary physical and social infrastructure, while ensuring Fingal’s unique natural and cultural heritage is protected for present and future generations. In simple terms, we want Fingal to be the location of choice

in which to live, work and visit in Ireland.

“This public consultation on the Draft Development Plan is a key opportunity for citizens, community groups and businesses to ensure that their views are considered in shaping the future of their community and of their county.

“We actively encourage all interested parties to participate in the process,” he said.

To facilitate public participation, Fingal will be hosting a series of “dropin” public information sessions on the Draft Plan at various locations across the county during March and April.

In advance of the information sessions the Draft Plan can be viewed on the council’s website (fingal.ie) or inspected at its offices and in the council’s libraries.

8 BLANCH Gazette 10 March 2016

Gazettegallery

| tech experts gather for a special conference

Michelle Duffy Rudden and Felicity McCarthy

Summit for everyone in social media sector

Kathryn Dalton and Averyl Quinn

Paul Mahony

Patricia Iglesais and Louise McCormack

Over here, over here ... Brian Fanzo, Ted Rubin and Steve Dotto take a selfie. Pictures: Cathy Weatherston

S

EVERAL leading lights from social media platforms attended a special summit in Dublin recently, where they gave the largest such gathering of social media professionals in Ireland the benefit of their experience.

From stalwart internet platforms such as YouTube through to rising

platforms such as live-streaming service Periscope, the experts from a wide range of social media fields provided great insight into a fast-moving tech sector.

Workshops and talks comprised much of the summit, with attendees relishing the chance to hear first-hand

tips, advice and anecdotes from a number of leading figures, while they were also keen to focus on maintaining and developing business strategies and growth. With everything from a strong focus on business models to more intellectual points, there was something for everyone to focus on.

Carol Faughnan, Una O’Dodd, Miriam Lloyd, Esther Lawson and Melanie Boylan

Jenny Brennan

10 March 2016 BLANCH Gazette 9

Operation Healthy Shop | changes to eating habits and behaviours

Top tips to take up a healthy lifestyle  Ian Begley ibegley@dublingazette.com

For those interested in taking up a healthy lifestyle, Operation Healthy Shop will be held in SuperValu, Blanchardstown, on Friday, March 11, where customers will be given the opportunity to have their weight, BMI and waist circumference measured (free of charge).

P ublic health and clinical nutritionist Niamh Arthurs will be giving practical tips, tasty but nutritious food ideas and healthier suggestions to help people make changes to their current eating habits and behaviours.

Speaking to The Gazette, Arthurs said: “I guide people around the store and educate them on reading food labels and how to make more informed decisions.

“I have been described as ‘a personal food shop-

per’ and ‘a personal health guide’,” she said.

Arthurs, who works in public health and health promotion for people from all ages and all walks of life, has been heavily involved in running Operation Transformation programmes nationwide, health education and programmes, doing cooking demonstrations with the likes of Donal Skehen and Neven Maguire, and presenting at food and health events.

Runs Meanwhile, both Harstown and Porterstow n parkr uns are encouraging people who are interested in getting in shape and staying fit to attend their free, weekly 5km run/walk.

Parkrun encourages people of all ages and athletic ability to come together every Saturday at 9.30am and take part in a free, non-competi-

tive 5km run.

The weekly event is entirely organised by volunteers, and are looking for people to come on board and help out.

For further information, see the Har tstown and Porterstown parkrun Facebook pages to find out more.

Fingal County Council also have a team of sports officers who provide community support to community groups, clubs, schools and business groups.

They aim to create lifelong patterns of involvement in sport and physical activity. They do this by prioritising training and development for sports volunteers and staff, and supporting the development of a network of accessible, highquality facilities to meet the needs of Fingal’s growing communities.

For further information about their work, see www.fingal.ie/.

ADVERTISE IF YOU ARE

HERE To advertise with the g a z e tt e c a l l 60 10 240

READING THIS SO ARE YOUR POTENTIAL CUSTOMERS!

Public health and clinical nutritionist Niamh Arthurs

10 BLANCH Gazette 10 March 2016

BLANCHGazettegallery | glimpse exhibition at draiocht

Des McGuiness, artist Ruth McDonnell, John Lovett and Neil Hegarty. Pictures: Philip Murray

Cinematic artworks T

HE Big Screen takes a starring role at the heart of a new exhibition by acclaimed artist Ruth McDonnell at Draiocht, Blanchardstown. Entitled Glimpse, Ruth’s drawings and paintings capture aspects of cinema interiors and fleet-

ing images of the facades of Irish picture houses, influenced by her passion for cinema and by her years spent working in film and television.

With many prestigious accreditations to her name, Glimpse marks her seventh solo exhibition, and

the colourful works and contrasts between delicate line art and bold use of colour were very well received by all at the launch.

Draiocht’s galleries are open from Monday to Saturday, 10am to 6pm, with free admission.

The artworks provded plenty for the gallery’s art lovers to ponder and discuss

The guests paid attentive attention to curator/writer

Local artist Des Kenny with artist Ruth McDonnell, curator/writer Carissa Farrell

The guests took their time when admiring the rich

Carissa Farrell’s speech about Glimpse

and Nicola Murphy, PR manager, Draiocht

colours and confident brushstrokes

10 March 2016 BLANCH Gazette 11

revamped peter mark celebration |

BLANCHGazettegallery

Michael Doyle, Ruth O’Connor and Cathal Keaveney

Monica Hughes, Peter Mark Blanchardstown village salon manager, Sheena McTeigne and Mary O’Neill

Alyson and Yasemin Gueven

Salon is a cut above

B

EAUTY-conscious clients from across the area were happy to help staff at Peter Mark Blanchardstown Village celebrate its stylish revamp recently, with a special evening to introduce the new-look salon to everyone. Salon manager Sheena McTeigue was joined at the event by Peter Mark celebrity stylist, Michael Doyle, along with Peter Mark director, Cathal Keaveney, who

praised the quality of the revamp.

It wouldn’t be Peter Mark without the latest cuts and trends, with guests also enjoying some of the latest spring/summer styles that the salon’s stylists can create.

Adding to the relaxed, upbeat mood, guests also enjoyed drinks and canapes were as they discussed a range of hair care products, treatments and styling tools.

Joanne, Ruth and Emma Lynch

12 Gazette 10 March 2016

Gazettegallery

Lisa O’Brien and Cindy Flynn

| at alison canavan’s launch of her first book

Jonathan Sultan and Emma Coppolla

Alison Canavan with Minister for Health Leo Varadkar and his parents, Ashok and Miriam Varadkar

Helping new mums Grace, Kate and Laura Canavan

Presenter Alison Canavan with U2’s Adam Clayton. Picture: Brian McEVoy

M

ODEL, presenter and now author Alison Canavan attracted a great gathering to the launch at House at Leeson Street of her first book recently. Entitled, Minding Mum: It’s Time to Take Care of You, the €16.99 book is described as a new-mum’s guide to feeling great, inside and out. Inspired by her own experiences as a new mother, Alison wrote the book to fill what she saw as a gap in the market – a guide for new mothers to also take care of themselves, too. The launch attracted many well-known faces, all happy to help launch the book, and to get the message out that new mums also have to make sure that they’re okay. Adding a dash of pampering to the launch just ahead of Mother’s Day, a nail and make-up bar was also set up at the launch, with experts on hand from SOSU Nails and Couleur Caramel.

Alison had some help from her biggest fan at the launch – her son, James

10 March 2016 Gazette 13

feature P15

asdfsdaf schools 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

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Animals arthur is a lovely colt in need of a home

These young visitors were captivated by history at the official opening of the €10m GPO: Witness History exhibition. Picture: Paul Sherwood Photography

heritage: €10m visitor centre explores the events and impact of 1916

Explore the Rising at the GPO THE GPO is enshrined in the history of the 1916 Easter Rising, so what better place to “witness history” than in the very place where it all happened 100 years ago?

GPO: Witness History is a €10m visitor attraction set to open this Easter, just in time for the commemorations.

This immersive centre will put people right inside the heart of the GPO during the five days in which it was both the military command centre, and the seat of the Provisional Irish Government.

This audio-visual, interactive hub really has something for people of all ages. With games for children and plenty to read for interested adults, this one is a must.

From the minute you walk into the GPO: Witness History centre, you are

absorbed by the history that surrounds you.

With a timeline that goes from 1913 to 1923, you can really involve yourself, not only in the events of the Easter Rising but the events leading up to Easter Week and the aftermath of the rebellion.

The visitor facility also features a cinematic experience – which is an excellent way to get as much information you can about the Easter Rising in as little time as possible. This audio-visual experience breaks down the events of Easter week 1916, and really puts you in the heart of the revolution.

This tour is self-guided, which means you can take as much time as you’d like to spend engaging yourself in events that particularly appeal to you.

You can read about the role that the

women of Cumann Na mBan played, how the children of 1916 Dublin suffered, and how the men of the Irish Provisional Government went about and carried through on their plans for an uprising.

There are also loads of artefacts on show throughout the experience, such as medals, badges, uniforms and equipment from the time period, along with a copy of The Proclamation of Independence.

The average tour lasts around 90 minutes and you definitely won’t find yourself ready to leave before that.

The exhibition also features a timeline of how previous anniversaries of The Rising have been celebrated in Ireland.

Also on offer is a wall of “where we’ve come since then”, which fea-

tures all the good and bad things that have happened in Ireland since 1916.

A very interesting part of this tour is the courtyard, where there is a beautiful sculpture which features several different stones, to commemorate each child that lost their life during Easter Week 1916.

The centre is set to be opened by An Taoiseach Enda Kenny on March 25, and officially opens to the public on March 29. Tours are on all day, from 9am to 5.30pm, with ticket prices starting from €10.

Not only does GPO: Witness History plunge you into the history of our emerald isle, it also presents you with the reality of where we are today, and when you see this exhibition for yourself you’ll see that we’re not that bad after all!

LITTLE Arthur was taken from his mother too early, and volunteers from My Lovely Horse Rescue first came across him when they saw him being ridden as a six-month-old foal in inner city Dublin. He was very underweight and full of worms. However, since he has been in our care, he has become a very sociable little colt.

Arthur is a sweetnatured, handsome little chestnut cob yearling with a striking flaxen mane and tail. He has almost completely lost his nervousness, with careful handling since he came to us.

He is quite good to catch, good to lead and good with other horses.

He is also used to electric fencing, and he’s great to groom with gentle, quiet handling.

With an estimated mid2014 date of birth, Arthur is a chestnut colt cob yearling, roughly 10hh.

If you are interested in rehoming Arthur, please email mylovelyhorserescue@ gmail.com.

14 Gazette 10 March 2016

Gazette

dublinlife A blooming good way to support cancer sufferers

THE Irish Cancer Society will plant a “Garden of Hope” for a seventh year, returning to the Iveagh Gardens this Daffodil Day, on Friday, March 11.

The society, together with Dell – its lead partner on Daffodil Day – are appealing to people around the country to dedicate a daffodil with

a message of hope for themselves or someone they love.

Daffodil Day is the biggest and longest running fundraising day for

the Irish Cancer Society, Ireland’s national cancer charity.

On Daffodil Day, thousands of volunteers around Ireland sell daffodil pins and flowers to raise money for the society’s free, nationwide services for those with, and affected by, cancer in Ireland.

Mark Mellett, the society’s head of fundraising, said: “Every year, we receive daffodils with beautiful messages written on them – messages from people remembering someone they have lost or messages celebrating people who are still here.

“There is still plenty of time to dedicate a message – so if you haven’t made a dedication yet, do it today.”

the rising is set to repeat at the gpo A NEW play about the Easter Rising is to take place inside the GPO later this month, and into April.

Inside The GPO is an unprecedented documentary-drama, and a once-in-a-century opportunity to experience the Easter Rising inside the main post office hall of the GPO. Recreating key events from the Rising, from the seizure of the building on Monday, to the beginning of the shelling on Wednesday, to the eventual evacuation on Friday, audiences will witness the rebel leadership navigate the perils of the event.

Fishamble theatre artis-

diary

Taking in the sights of a previous Garden of Hope, where the Irish Cancer Society planted daffodil cutouts bearing messages of loss, and hope, from many people affected by cancer. With Daffodil Day this Friday, March 11 - the society’s biggest, key annual fundraising event - the public are invited to support the day, as well as the thoughtful Garden of Hope initiative.

tic director Jim Culleton said: “Fishamble is always seeking ways to develop plays that capture contemporary life, that speak with immediacy to audiences, and that do this in a theatrically inventive way.

“We are very grateful to all our partners and supporters for their help in making this unique event happen.”

Inside The GPO runs for a strictly limited run from March 29 – April 9, at 7.30pm and 9pm.

a noteworthy new music festival A NEW music festival is to take place in Dublin’s Smock Ally Theatre, and the Contemporary Music Centre, from Dublin, from April 7 to April 9.

Music Current is a new music festival, showcasing the best in Irish electronic music and contemporary international repertoire.

With events such as masterclasses, workshops and concerts running over two different venues,

SmockAlley Theatre (concerts) and Contemporary Music Centre (masterclasses and workshops), the festival is entirely embedded into one area in the city: Temple Bar. The festival will feature public concerts, and composer opportunities – specifically, a new work commission of €2,500.

The festival will also provide opportunities for performance, collaborations and professional development in music.

There are four concerts over the three-day festival, with the first two public events being a double bill, so audiences will be treated to two shows in one night.

Tickets are available from €15 at www.smockalley.com.

a tree-mendously good week for all THIS week has seen ESB Tree Week reignite the nation’s love of trees through hundreds of events all across the country.

E S B T r e e We e k launched last week with a survey of parents that revealed almost a third of children in Ireland (31%) have never climbed a tree, and one in 10 have never even visited a forest or wooded area.

Running until March 16, a number of events are taking place all over Dublin including tree planting event in Whitechurch and Donabate, and a lecture by the Society of Irish Foresters in the Botanic Gardens.

Kevin Hutchinson, president of the Tree Council of Ireland, said: “This year’s ESB Tree Week promises to be the biggest one yet, with hundreds of events happening around the country to celebrate trees. We hope that people of all ages are able to get out and enjoy their local events.”

To find out about local events happening in your area and to find ways to get outside and enjoy trees, see www.welovetrees.ie.

10 March 2016 Gazette 15

FEATURE Advertise your business to over 280,000* readers each week *Publishers statement

call 01 60 10 240

James Kavanagh is kept busy with all of his social media activities, which have built up quite a following over the past year. Picture: Hazel Coonagh

a day in the life: james kavanagh

Working away as a top social media darling  emma nolan

DUBLIN’S social media darling James Kavanagh took a break from Snappchatting to talk to The Gazette about a typical day in his not so typical life.

Having made his way onto the phone screens of the nation through mainly Snapchat, but also through Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, Kavanagh has managed to charm the pants of his followers with his hilarious and frank commentary on life.

Through the various tropes he has created, such as Scaring William (his easily frightened boyfriend, William Murray), his Snapchat (Jameskava) has become essential viewing as he delivers an all-hours comedy show through a new medium.

As for a day in his life, to start his day he usually “scares William first thing”, before making a

healthy concoction in his Nutri Bullet blender. “I’m mad for the Nutri Bullet,” he laughs.

Kavanagh’s days differ wildly on a day to day basis since he left his job as a PR manager in February to focus on creating a food brand – Currabinny – with his boyfriend, William.

He tells The Gazette that they are going to start by opening stalls at various markets around Dublin with the goal of eventually opening their own cafe.

“The brand is called Currabinny,” he says.

“That’s where William is from in Cork; it’s a tiny, idyllic village and they have a great tradition there of fishing and growing and cooking their own food, which is where William found his love of food – it’s such a gorgeous place.”

Ballymaloe-trained William’s delicacies are well documented on

Snapchat to give future customers an insight into what they can expect from the couple’s latest foodie endeavour.

Their first stall will be at the Teelings Whisky Market in Newmarket Square Dublin 8 on March 19.

At the moment, Kavanagh’s days are filled with research, meeting with producers and suppliers, getting people on board and everything it takes to start a new business.

“Well, I still need to pay the bills in the meantime, so I’m involved in a number of campaigns as a result of my Snapchat following. I’ll be presenting the OMGAs – the Online Media Greatness Awards – in the next few weeks.”

K av a n a g h ’s d r o l l musings on anything that’s “diviinnnnee” or “goooorge” have been entertaining Dublin and beyond for best part of a year, and it looks like it’s set to continue.

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dublinlife

FEATURES

initiative: Sow and Grow project

Planting the seeds of healthy eating Thirty thousand primary school children ar ound Irel and a re putting on their “Veg Heads” for the Sow and Grow project.

G r ow I t Yo u r s e l f (GIY) and Innocent Drinks have launched the fifth annual Sow and Grow project which aims to get primar y

school children to get their hands dirty while sowing and growing their own vegetables.

This year’s initiative will facilitate 30,000 primary school children from all across Ireland in their learning to grow cress, peas and spinach.

Over the last four

years innocent and GIY have facilitated more than 80,000 school children to have their first growing experience in classrooms countrywide.

From March 1, teachers and youth-group leaders can apply for one of the free Sow and Grow packs on inno-

Daniel Iakhoa, Ephraim Dean, Aarron Dillon, Alan Morta and Michael Brady from Our Lady of Good Counsel Boy’s National School in Drimnagh. Picture: Leon Farrell / Photocall Ireland

centdrinks.com for their classroom or group.

Each pack includes 30 growing pots, seeds, soil, lesson plans and growing guides.

Studies show that

children who grow their ow n food are more likely to eat fruit and veg, show higher levels of knowledge around nutrition and are more l i ke l y t o c o n t i n u e healthy eating habits throughout their lives.

Progress

Aarron Dillon, Alan Morta, Daniel Iakhoa, Ephraim Dean and Michael Brady from Our Lady of Good Counsel Boy’s National School in Drimnagh

Registered schools are encouraged to track their growing progress throughout the term by writing about or uploading photos of their vegetables to the Sow and Grow website.

F o r e ve r y s c h o o l that does this, they will receive a Sow and Grow certificate as well the chance to win a class trip to Bloom Festival 2016 and Dublin Zoo and €500 of gardening equipment.

Winners of last year’s Sow and Grow project,

Ms Zoe Quinn’s second class boys of Our Lady of Good Counsel National School, Drimnagh, are well-practiced planters by now.

According to their principal Aidan Knight the “growing” spirit is on an upward trend at the school. He said: “We are very proud of the 25 boys from Ms Quinn’s class last year who were announced the 2015 winners.

“Thanks to them we now have a wonderful school garden which every class in the school can make use of on a weekly basis.”

This year’s Sow and Grow ambassador is RTE’s Operation Transformation nutritionist, Aoife Hearne who was on hand to launch the project with pupils of Our Lady of Good

Counsel Boy’s National School.

Commenting on the project Hearne said: “I’m a big believer in growing your own food.

As a mum and a nutritionist, I believe that giving children the knowledge of where their food comes from as well as showing them how to grow it themselves, are two of the greatest gifts we can offer.

“Healthy eating for me is about knowing which foods are actually healthy and secondly having access to those healthy foods.

“The Innocent and GIY Sow and Grow programme fulfils both of those criteria and it is projects like this which will help us to battle Ireland’s continually increasing obesity statistics.”

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

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Gazette

10 March 2016 Gazette 17

work: take part in the second annual wellbeing day

Have a healthier workplace IRELAND’S second National Workplace Wellbeing Day will take place on Friday, April 8, with public and private sector organisations across Dublin invited to participate in the day, which aims to improve employee health through promoting better physical activity and nutrition in the workplace.

On April 8, employers

are being asked to put a special focus on wellbeing by promoting existing and new initiatives available in their workplace, as well as organising special events for staff, such as the “Lunchtime Mile” – a one-mile cycle, jog, run, walk or swim for employees in the vicinity of their workplace.

This year also sees the launch of the Work-

place Wellbeing Awards, to recognise those companies who are already promoting workplace wellbeing within their organisations, and to inspire others to get involved.

With 11 million days lost through absenteeism every year, at a cost of €1.5 billion, improving employee wellbeing is in everyone’s best

interest.

According to research, only one in three workers nationally takes the recommended level of exercise for a healthy lifestyle each week.

Three in ten workers undertake no physical exercise during work time, while just over a quarter (27%) describing themselves as fairly or very physically active.

Hundreds of employers – from the smallest to the largest – supported the inaugural Workplace Wellbeing Day. Healthy breakfasts, health checks and talks, exercise and fitness classes, cookery demonstrations and lunchtime walks are just some of the events that they organised for their staff.

For further informa-

For many people, the walk to or from work may be the extent of their exercise. Employers are asked: are they doing enough for their staff wellbeing and health?

tion, more ideas and full details on how to get involved in Workplace

Wellbeing Day, and the awards, see www.nhfireland.ie/wellbeing.

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Two of the new Hydrabio products (above, below)

Bioderma’s help for sensitive skin types  emma nolan

IT CAN be difficult to find the right products for sensitive skin that provide the right balance to cover your skin’s needs.

Bioderma have launched their new Hydrabio range, which is specially formulated for dehydrated and sensitive skin types.

The Hyrdabio range aims to give “intense hydration and radiation” to sensitive skin and provide an answer for those who are looking for a “radiant complexion, exceptional hydration and an unprecedented sensory appeal”.

Bioderma’s research has shown that external factors such as pollution, UV rays, temperature variations and stress, coupled with increasingly urban lifestyles, can leave your skin dehydrated and sensitised.

The Hyrdabio products have been formulated to stimulate the skin’s cellular capacities and reactivate its natural hydration process.

Miceller water has grown in popularity in recent months as the go-to make-up remover and facial cleanser.

Bioderma’s take on the cleanser – Hydrabio H20 – is designed to thoroughly remove make-up while still

respecting the fragility of sensitive skin.

Tailored for ver y dehydrated skin is the Hyrdabio serum which, when used regularly, encourages the skin to moisturise itself; the gel creme helps to smooth the skin’s texture and enhance radiance and freshness, and the thick creme is designed to intensely nourish dry and irritated skin.

Lastly, the hydrating Gommage is a gentle exfoliator for fragile skin that deeply cleanses and protects.

By obser ving the skin’s natural hydration mechanisms, Bioderma has developed “aquagenium”, a formula that is able offer a “new dimension to hydration” to mimic the natural moisturising action of the skin.

The Hydrabio range will be available in independent pharmacies nationwide from April 4, and ranges from €11.50 to €22.

Fresh fashion at Dundrum CHILL winds and a last gasp from Old Man Winter have blown across the country recently, but there are plenty of hot new trends with warm pops of colour to look forward to, courtesy of a wide range of premium and high

street brands available at Dundrum Town Centre.

With something to suit all tastes and budgets, retailers at the busy centre are busy rolling out some of the latest on-trend styles for spring/summer 2016.

So, forget the greys and blacks still lingering around us – brighten up your wardrobe with some of these warm hues and bold signature pieces – they’re perfect for stepping out in style, ready to make a confident statement:

“Bring on the sun!”

And, sun, rain, wind – or even if there’s another lick of snow – you know you’ll look great in any of these pieces, with all these, and many more, to be found across Dundrum Town Centre.

10 March 2016 Gazette 19

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Let Truvivity support your skin  emma nolan

LEGEND 1 (Coast) Top, €69; trousers, €109; (Aldo) Shoes, €90.

2: (H&M) Top, €29.99; skirt, €49.99; neck scarf, €39.99; (Zara) Shoes, €29.95.

3: (Selected Femme) Top, €59.95; shorts, €59.95; blazer, €99.95; (Aldo) Shoes, €90.

4: (BT2), (Carven) Dress, €540; (Aldo) Shoes, €80.

5: (River Island) Top, €40; skirt, €40; (Aldo) Shoes, €90.

6: (Harvey Nichols), (Pinko) Dress, €278; shoes, €266.

7: (Zara) Top, €39.95; trousers, €49.95; necklace, €25.95; (Aldo) Shoes, €80.

Designs inspired by the humble cocoa pod AWARD-winning Irish jewellery company, Juvi Designs, which celebrates its tenth birthday this year, has introduced an exotic new collection for spring/summer 2016, inspired by travels through Mexico and the country’s lush cocoa plantations.

TheCocoa Pod collection showcases vibrant, colourful jewels paired with 18ct gold vermeil or sterling silver, and each piece features the unusual, natural shape of the cocoa pod, that contain the beans from which chocolate is made.

Each piece in the Cocoa Pod collection is named after a place or culture that Juvi’s

Gazette

STYLE

founders, Julie and Vincent Tynan, discovered during their journey through tropical Mexico.

The Tulum pendant (€89) is named after the laidback beach town on the magical Riviera Maya, while the Cenote gold bangle (€145) conveys the beauty of the natural, water-filled sinkholes found in this region.

Baja earrings (€69) and chunky Lago rings (€105) boast a range of precious gemstones, including aqua chalcedony, pink tourmaline, rose quartz, citrine, green amethyst and ruby.

“We fell in love with

Mexico when we first visited 13 years ago, and we have been back m a ny t i m e s since,” said designer J u l i e Tynan. “ O n our travels, we had the pleasure of visiting a cocoa plantation, where we were surprised by the natural beauty, colour and shape of the cocoa pod itself.

“Its uniqueness inspired our spring/ summer 2016 collection, and we have chosen the cocoa pod as the centrepiece of each design.”

Julie and Vincent are a husband and wife duo who combine their talents and backgrounds as an interior designer and silversmith to create unique, striking pieces at their studio in Dublin.

With prices starting from €65, Juvi’s Cocoa Pod collection is available now at Arnotts, House of Fraser, Kilkenny, and independent retailers throughout Ireland, or online at www. juvidesigns.com.

From this month, Juvi Designs will also be stocked in Avoca.

SKIN care takes on a new medium thanks to Nurilite. Its new ingestible Truvivity range (inset), featuring “Beauty Supplement” and “Beauty Powder Drink”, tackle skincare issues from the inside out.

The Beauty Supplement, €85, is a food supplement providing vitamin A, C and zinc, which work together to contribute to the maintenance of normal skin.

Additionally, vitamin C and zinc help to protect skin cells from oxidative stress.

The Beauty Drink, €47, is a food supplement containing vitamin

C to help the normal collagen formation for normal function of the skin, and to contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

Speaking on this new skincare method, Amway senior research scientist Dawna Venzon said: “As we age, our skin can become thinner.

“The ceramides in the stratum corneum [the skin’s outer layer] become less dense and unable to serve as an effective skin barrier.

T h i s c a n result

in weaker, drier skin.”

Truvivity’s research suggests that a lot of the main stressors for skin come from within. Poor dietary habits and lack of sleep are typical causes for skin becoming dull and damaged.

In including additional nutrients as part of a balanced diet, in conjunction with an external skincare regime, the beauty supplements give skin an extra boost to fight against the factors that cause it to become unhealthy. The products are available at www. a mw ay. ie.

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OUT&ABOUT

FOOD&DRINK

Cookhouse serves up a treat McGettigan’s Cookhouse and Bar has opened a new restaurant in the location of the famous Kingswood

House on the grounds of the Kingswood Hotel, Citywest, just off the N7.

Located in a stylish new extension of the

renowned Kingswood House, and adjacent to the Kingswood Hotel, McGettigan’s Cookhouse and Bar hosts a large open

restaurant and bar with seating for 150 people, and a series of luxuriously designed event spaces catering for parties from

10 people right up to 130.

The Locke Suite – the largest event space – is an exciting New York loftstyle room with exposed

brickwork and beams and polished wooden and stone flooring, offering private facilities for up to 130 people.

A relaxed atmosphere emanates from the expansive McGettigan’s Cookhouse, with exposed brick walls and beams, wooden and Porcelanosa stone floors and coloured leather furnishings.

A large pewter island bar in the centre of the restaurant serves a cookhouse menu with drinks and cocktails from the resident mixologists.

The urban decor in the large space caters for all types of diners, with long concrete and zinc sharing tables in front of an open kitchen where guests can watch the chefs at work, while other areas offer a secluded log room, large circular booths perfect for groups of friends or families, and comfortable, luxurious bar stools and chairs placed at more intimate tables.

Floor-to-ceiling glazing looks onto a manicured terrace and garden, which will soon have an outdoor kitchen and currently offers heated al fresco dining all year long.

The open kitchen serves the best of Irish cuisine and popular favourites given the gourmet treatment. Head chef Pa Brophy, formerly of The Storehouse in Naas, has developed an extensive menu with a focus on

using fresh produce from local suppliers.

The menu caters for all tastes and party sizes, and is served fresh from the open kitchen in a cosmopolitan cookhouse style.

Carnivores will be spoilt for choice, with all 100% Irish meat offering a range of steaks, duck cassoulet, roast chicken, pork saltimbocca and the Cookhouse trademark selection of gourmet burgers.

Seafood lovers can choose from a sumptuous collection of fish and shellfish, including fish chowder, tiger prawns tempura, pan-seared king scallops, tuna nicoise salads, and traditional fish and chips. Other culinary delights include butternut squash and wild mushroom risotto, superfood salads and pizzas.

Starters range from €6 to €8 with mains from €12.95 to €29. McGettigan’s Boards offer a more casual option for anyone preferring some sliders or antipasti with a glass of wine or craft beer from the extensive cookhouse menu. Mouthwatering chef’s specials are chalkboarded daily.

Bringing a wealth of experience within the hospitality industry, the McGettigan family boast three Cookhouse and bars and nine Hotels in Ireland, with 11 gastro pubs across Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia and America.

Style and comfort are to the fore throughout the new Cookhouse restaurant

10 March 2016 Gazette 21

Gazette

FEATURE heritage: lots of events across the whole city

Plenty to attend as Dublin marks the events of 1916  Jodi Waters

EVENTS marking the centenary of the 1916 Easter Rising in Dublin started this month, with many running until May. On March 3, Kilmainham Gaol opened up its courthouse for the first time since being restored.

The courthouse was once a “session’s house” for the Dublin grand jury during the 1820s.

It ceased as a court in 2008 and was handed over to the Office of Public Works in 2013.

The gaol was opened in 1796 and closed in 1910, but was reopened in the years between 1916 and 1924 to house political prisoners.

Kilmainham Gaol was the site in which the 16 leaders of the 1916 Easter Rising were executed.

T he ancient gaol is already a museum that operates tours daily.

March 3 also saw the opening of The National Museum of Ireland’s 1916 exhibition, Proclaiming A Republic: The 1916 Rising.

It contains 15,000 o b j e c t s f r o m 1916 , including the Proclamation and the original flag of the Irish Republic.

The exhibition explores the background to the Rising, including political events, the rise of the Catholic elite, the push for Home Rule and the

growth of republicanism.

Proclaiming A Republic: The 1916 Rising is a reflection of 100 years of collecting, commemorating and preserving the last of the physical objects that link us to the men, women and children of the 1916 Easter Rising. Admission is also free to the exhibition, so this is a must-see.

On March 25, Glasnevin Cemetery Museum will launch the start of its 1916 events with 1916 Rising Tours. The tours will bring you to the graves of all those involved in and affected by the Rising, including the graves of Eamon D eVa l e r a , M i c h a e l Collins and Countess Markievicz. Tickets start from €8 and go up to €25 for a family pass.

Facility The opening of the visitor facility in the GPO kicks off Easter weekend. Opening on March 25, this exhibition commemorates the 1916 Rising in its entirety.

Events of Easter week 1916 will be presented chronologically so visitors will be able to fully understand what happened, who was there and when it happened.

GPO: Witness History celebrates our past, experiences the present and embraces our future.

Ticket prices range from €5 to €30.

Easter Sunday will see a ceremony and parade take place in the city. At 11:30am, the ceremony will commence with the reading of the 1916 Proclamation of Independence in the same place that Padraig Pearse would have read it 100 years ago, this time by a Defence Forces officer.

There will be a minute’s silence for all who died during the rebellion, followed by President Michael D Higgins laying a wreath for the 16 leaders.

The Tricolour The Tricolour will then be raised to full mast, and you will hear the sounds of Amhran na bhFiann echo through the crowds of O’Connell Street.

The parade will be led by the Defence Forces in full military attire, beginning at St Stephan’s Green, passing the GPO and finishing in Parnell Square. The event will conclude with an Air Corps flypast and a 21-gun salute.

That evening there will be a State reception at Dublin Castle on an invitation-only basis from An Taoiseach, Enda Kenny.

Another ceremony will take place at The Garden of Remembrance. Unfortunately, this is a State event but will be televised live by RTE.

The events will finish up with another ceremonious event in Liberty Hall, honouring the Irish Citizen Army (ICA) and the role of James Connolly in the rebellion.

There will be a wreath laid at the James Connolly statue in Beresford Place, followed by a reenactment of raising the flag, and an afternoon of music, poetry and literature.

If you’re not interested in visiting the city centre this Easter Sunday, Glasnevin Cemetery have a wreath-laying ceremony taking place.

There will be three separate wreaths laid on the day, one at Sigerson Monument to commemorate all who died in the Rising; the second wreath will be laid on the grave of Edward Hollywood, the weaver of the first Irish Tricolour in 1848, and finally, the last wreath will be laid on the grave of Peader Kearney, the man who brought us Amhran na bhFiann.

This is a ticketed event open to the public; however, there will be large screens in a public area documenting the event as it takes place due to limited ticket places.

With plenty of things to get see, hear and do this Easter, you’ll be sad not to get out there and commemorate the men, women and children of 1916.

As the heart of much of The Rising in 1916, the GPO features prominently in much of the State’s commemorations of the fight for independence

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OUT&ABOUT

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TRAVEL NEWS

TRAVEL

Travel Department: an extensive programme for 2016

Go west for an Easter holiday to remember

Take the family west this Easter, with an exceptional Easter family break in one of the most pristine and picturesque parts of the country.

Enjoy a two-night stay in the Victorian mansion of Ballynahinch Castle Hotel overlooking the Ballynahinch River like a fairy tale castle in the woods.

Reconnect and relax with the family, checking in to your Riverside room with breakfast in the restaurant on both mornings and dinner on the evening of your choice.

From guided adventure walks through the woods, fishing on the lake, meeting the resident chickens, ponies and pigs and fun-filled art competitions, there is

plenty to keep the whole family entertained.

Gather the family and take part in the Easter Egg Hunt on Easter Sunday and relax in the comfortable surrounds of Ballynahinch Castle Hotel while enjoying your sweet treats.

The Easter package at Ballynahinch Castle Hotel includes two nights accommodation for two adults and two children with breakfast each morning, one evening meal in the Owenmore Restaurant and a host of activities.

Prices start from €690 for two adults and two children under 12 sharing one room.

For more details on this package visit www. ballynahinch-castle.com or call 09531006.

Enjoy a full-day guided tour of Venice

A great opera-tunity for a trip of a lifetime

 Ian Begley

Hit the slopes for a last minute holiday

For those who want a last minute holiday away, you can dust off your ski gear and spend March on a mountain with Crystal Ski Holidays.

Choose a last minute deal to a European ski hotspot and you could be hitting the slopes from as little as €316pp.

Spend seven nights at the three-star Planibel Apartments, La Thuile, Italy on a self-catering

basis, from €316pp (based on four sharing) on March 13.

Also departing on March 13, is the ski package to Pas de las Casa, Andorra, for seven nights at the t wo - s t a r M a n z a n o Apartments, from €335pp (based on four sharing).

To book your holiday or to order a guide call Crystal Ski Holidays on 01 4331080 or visit www.crystalski.ie

Travel Department has launched an extensive opera programme for 2016 with exciting destinations on offer such as Italy, Prague, Budapest and Berlin.

As part of the 2016 opera programme, RTE Lyric FM’s Marty Whelan returns to Italy this year, giving fans an introduction to some of the best operas in the world in Lake Garda, Tuscany and Sorrento, as they enjoy an Italian vacanza at the same time.

Marty will join your group before the performance for a meet and greet, some exciting photo opportunities, and to share his knowledge of the particular opera.

Throughout the rest of your holiday, you will enjoy excursions with local tour guides as well as plenty of free time to explore or relax at your

leisure.

For 2016,Travel Department’s Opera Holidays include a holiday in Lake Garda, Venice and Verona, including Verdi’s La Traviata for seven nights, departing on July 21 from €1,169.

Over this seven-night guided holiday, you can explore the historic towns that hug the coast of Lake Garda and stroll through quaint streets and squares, all set in the tranquil surroundings of blue waters and towering mountains.

Enjoy full-day guided tours of Venice and Verona before watching the beautiful scenery of Lake Garda unfold by boat over a half-day excursion.

On the day of the opera, Marty Whelan will lead an introduction to the breath-taking La Traviata over lunch, before you experience one of the performances which established Giuseppe Verdi as a first-class com-

poser at the world famous Arena di Verona.

Departing on July 26, for seven nights, join Marty for a meet and greet and introduction to the opera in the glorious surrounds of Tuscany and the Puccini Festival for this unique festival experience, which is held annually during July and August to celebrate the life and works of the famous Italian composer, Giacomo Puccini.

From €1,059, you will then take in a special open-air performance of Madame Butterfly in Torre del Lago on the banks of Lake Massaciuccoli.

On this seven-night holiday, you will also visit the beautiful city of Florence with its famous Piazza della Signoria and travel to Lucca, a walled city that was the birthplace of Puccini.

You will explore Siena,

a city famous for its art, cuisine, museums and medieval landscape, as well as the small medieval town of San Gimignano.

A highlight for many is the trip to Pisa, which is home not only to the tower, but also to some magnificent cathedrals and baroque buildings.

From €1,049, you can explore the Sorrento Coast, Pompeii and Capri for the ultimate opera holiday. Departing on September 21 for seven nights, the Sorrento Peninsula is a known popular destination with Irish holidaymakers, positioned close to Naples in Campania, offering some of southern Italy’s most famous sights.

Overlooking the scenic Bay of Naples, it is the perfect location for this seven-night touring holiday, where you will enjoy guided tours of the charming town of Sorrento, the romantic island

of Capri via hydrofoil, and the ancient ruins of Pompeii.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at your hotel and an introduction to the night’s opera performance from Marty Whelan. Then, take a guided transfer to Naples for a spellbinding night at the opera in the beautiful Teatro di San Carlo, and enjoy a performance of Mozart’s Marriage of Figaro.

All prices are per person and include flights, transfers, taxes, accommodation, guided tours and opera ticket with some meals included.

Marty in the Morning which is broadcast from Monday to Friday will broadcast live from all three of these destinations and encourages Travel Department guests to participate.

For more information about this package and how to book visit www. traveldepartment.ie.

OUT&ABOUT

Gazette

Gazette

10 March 2016 Gazette 23

CINEMA CINEMA

ReelReviews

The Finest Hours That sinking feeling

(Cert 12A, 120 mins) This docudrama depicts the incredible true story of a daring Coast Guard rescue operation off of Cape Cod during a ferocious storm in the winter of 1952. When an oil tanker splits in half, trapping its crew aboard the sinking vessel, four brave Guardsmen set out to save them.

Grimsby Big Brother

(Cert 16, 83min) Dimwitted Nobby (Sacha Baron Cohen) lives in an English fishing town with his loving girlfriend (Rebel Wilson) and nine children.

For the last 28 years, he’s been searching for his long-lost brother Sebastian (Mark Strong).

When the two finally reunite, Nobby finds out that his sibling is a top MI6 agent who’s just uncovered a sinister plot.

DEADPOOL

Unconventional anti-hero (Cert R, 108mins) Deadpool is a 2016 American superhero film based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name. A former special forces operative turned mercenary is subjected to a rogue experiment that leaves him with accelerated healing powers, adopting the alter ego, Deadpool.

Starring Ryan Reynolds.

Julia Roberts, Nicole Kidman and Chiwetel Ejiofor head up an incredibly strong cast

Secret in Their Eyes: pale imitation of the Oscar-winning Argentinian original

Not quite a feast for the eyes Back in 2009, the low budget Argentinian thriller – El Secreto de sus Ojos – landed amid considerable critical fanfare.

Yet despite a lot of industr y recognition (including an Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film in the 2010 awards), the film passed most of us by unnoticed.

In a day when English language remakes are thin on the ground, Secret in Their Eyes attempts to bottle some of the success of the original and dole it out for a fresh audience.

The result is less of a remake, and more of a power-up, as director Billy Ray (who also gets writing credits for the adapted screenplay) gets to utilise a consid-

 Dave phillips

erable budget and bring together an incredibly strong cast.

The story follows Ray Kasten (a compelling Chiwetel Ejiofor) who is on a one man mission to resurrect a murder case from 2002.

As ex-FBI, now working privately in a dogged pursuit of justice, Kasten tries to rekindle connections with his original team, which includes Jessica (Julia Roberts), who is the mother of the victim; and Claire (Nicole Kid-

man), an old flame who has risen up the ranks in the meantime.

Flashing back and forth between the two timelines (which is never quite as smooth as it should be), the complexities of the story begin to emerge.

K a s t e n f o l l ow s a chain of evidence, but the person it leads him to (Peaky Blinder’s Joe Cole) is impossible to touch – working as a deeply embedded asset for counter-terrorism, the department want to keep him protected.

W hen it becomes obvious that pursuing things legally will not bear fruit, then it becomes a moral quandary for Claire, whose bending of the rules for an old flame may cost

her a career; and Jessica, who is forced to revisit her daughter’s death a decade on and decide what kind of justice should be meted.

There is a definite old-school vibe to The Secret in Their Eyes, while much of the action unfolds in 2002, the film itself feels like it could have been released a decade earlier.

B i l l i e R ay, w h o s e main strength lies in writing, demonstrates that he has a solid handle on directing.

There is good pace here and some outstanding performances from the leads.

Julia Roberts steals the show with an emotionally raw performance – an early scene where she uncovers her daughter’s

body is harrowing.

Ejiofor gets most of the attention, proving himself to be a robust and reliable action lead.

And despite a fine performance from Kidman, it is in her simmering relationship with Ejiofor that Secret in Their Eyes begins to become a little wobbly.

And it is not for lack of chemistry between the two actors, but for having so much focus on having a romantic plot in the middle of a murder investigation.

It is one example of how the old-school sensibilities of Secret in Their Eyes begin to erode the acting flair on the screen. Julia Roberts’ powerful bursts of grief seem somewhat diminished when

they are punctuated by thrilling chases through the middle of a baseball game.

It is unfortunate that in a film filled with great actors (including some great supporting work

by Breaking Bad’s Dean Norris, and House of Card’s Michael Kelly), t h e r e a r e s o m a ny moments of great performance and so few of genuine connection.

A s e r i e s o f ove rwrought last-minute twists serve as the final nails in the coffin, dragging the movie away from all its star-studded potential and into the murky realm of a feature-length episode of Law and Order. Who said there was any justice in the world?

Verdict: 5/10

Gazette

24 Gazette 10 March 2016

OUT&ABOUT

MOTORING

Two new Kia motorships are opened THE Fort Motor Group has extended its footprint in the capital with the opening of two new Kia dealerships this month.

FortMotors Kia will serve the West Dublin area from a premises close to the Blanchardstown Centre, while Airton Kia opens on Airton Road in Tallaght.

Airton Kia is situated in an impressive 45,000sq ft facility off the Greenhills Road, with an accredited state-of-the-art service and bodyshop operation.

Meanwhile, FortMotors Kia will operate from a modern 25,000sq ft premises in Coolmine Industrial Estate in Blanchardstown.

Expansion Staff are currently being recruited to supplement the experienced sales and service teams in both outlets. The expansion will bring the group’s workforce to almost 100.

According to dealer principals Cyril and Paul Molloy, adding the Kia franchise to the group makes strategic sense at a time when car sales are predicted to keep rising.

They said: “On the one hand, Kia is clearly a brand on an upward curve in a buoyant marketplace for car sales. At the same time, the Kia range very much complements our existing line-up of models.

“We are delighted to be able to provide a fuller suite of vehicles to our customers, to meet the greater diversity we are seeing in car buying.”

Aesthetically, the Karl has a strong identity, but its drivability is what most will concentrate on – in this regard, it doesn’t disappoint, at least for general use

opel karl: a pleasure to drive and handy for zipping about

It’s a small car that doesn’t scrimp on attractive features  dave philips

LAUNCHED as part of Opel’s small car expansion last year, the Opel Karl seemed like the sensible older sibling of the dinky and expressive Adam and Adam Rocks.

While the Adam range sold itself as the ultimate customizable city car, the Karl focuses on function – and while it may not be as eye-catching, it doesn’t altogether scrimp on style.

From the outside, the Karl looks solid, friendly, and compact. Five door comes as standard and there is a surprising amount of room in the back seats, making it perfect for kids or occasional passengers.

But, practical and safe does not necessarily mean dull; a nice, staggered line

running along the doors, pinched rear windows, and a vivid range of available colours gives the Karl a bit of an aesthetic bite, or at the very least, a considerable nibble.

The trend continues inside, where there is plenty of room up front, and a large glass sunroof increases the sense of space.

There are three levels available, fluctuating the price from a very affordable €11,995 for the basics up to around €16,000 for the SE model and the full rigout.

There’s a tidy control panel regardless, as seems to be the norm with the new range of Opel’s small cars – and plenty of safety features packed in.

Cornering lights bend into the turn and make a considerable difference

driving in the country at night, and there is a lane departure warning for the motorways.

Rear parking sensors are options, but handy for smaller spaces, and a hill start assist as standard adds to a range of nice features that make driving easier and safer – which makes a lot of sense, given the Karl’s low price point and inevitable appeal to beginner drivers.

Like the Adam and Corsa, a one-button press will free up the steering in city mode, making the Karl even more versatile in tight surrounds which is, in fairness, where it performs best.

The 1-litre (non-turbo, unlike the Corsa) engine is small but surprisingly powerful; you can really feel the Karl go in the low

The Karl dash has a range of helpful features as standard

gears.

In its natural environment, the Karl is a pleasure to drive – zipping around the Dublin suburbs, or even hugging the tight streets of Kinsale were a doddle.

Getting between the two was a little less so – capped at five gears, the Karl is not designed for long-distance cruising.

While the car manages comfortably, you can feel

some of the limitations of the engine once you pick up speed.

But, given that the Karl is aimed at people who want a reliable and stylish runaround, that can’t be seen as too much of a criticism.

Besides, even on the longer journey, despite the lack of a sixth gear, fuel use stayed very reasonable.

The Karl enters a

crowded small car market, and even with Opel’s range it will have to compete alongside the meatier Corsa and the more stylish Adam, but it has a place – a low price point, low tax, and low emissions will make this car appealing to a lot of suburbanites.

The Karl values safety, practicality, and affordability, and it delivers those with gusto.

10 March 2016 Gazette 25

Gazette

GAMING

WEEBYTES

Ryamond Tomlinson – the ‘father’ of email

Tech world mourns a legend’s loss

Many of the vistas and features of Firewatch’s forest park are as pretty as a postcard

 shane dillon

READERS may recall my brief mention of recently r e l e a s e d Firewatch (developed by Campo Santa, Cert 18; PS4, Windows, OS X, Linux) a few weeks ago.

T h e c r i t i c a l l y - a cclaimed, late 1980s-set game features an American forest park.

It’s an open-world setting that isn’t particularly

large, but is wonderfully designed and presented.

As Henry, a middleaged new ranger looking to take a break from a personal tragedy, players roam around the park in their new job, on the lookout for fires, in constant radio touch with a supervisor, Delilah.

The ebb and flow of their conversations feel very naturalistic (however, their occasional bad

language, and the game’s later story themes, very much make this a game for adult gamers).

B ut the enga ging characters and interesting story aside, it’s the Wyoming forest park that makes the greatest impression.

Eschewing many trends for ultra-realistic graphics, Firewatch’s world features an almost painterly look, with its

lightly-modelled and cleverly textured world looking almost like art, while some subtle timeof-day lighting effects help to create this visually arresting title.

As I sometimes focus on a striking title’s graphics and art style, here is a little of the park, and Henry’s world, which are beautifully rendered and presented throughout this very pretty game ...

These stills may look like flat, painted art, but they’re thanks to Firewatch’s striking art direction. The game features a fully 3D, explorable park to wander around, New forest park ranger Henry doesn’t get too much time to relax, with unexpected problems soon arising

taking in pretty sights like these. Screengrabs: Shane Dillon

YOU may not know his name, but every email you read or write is intrinsically linked to one American man – Raymond Tomlinson.

Who, you may ask?

Quite simply, he’s widely regarded as one of the fathers of the modern internet – specifically, he is regarded as the creator of modern email, and the person who devised the use of the ‘at’ (@) symbol in email addresses.

Sadly, Tomlinson passed away last weekend of an apparent heart attack, aged 74. However, the late computer programmer has made his mark on the world and technology alike, with his simple ground-setting rule now the global standard for communications, and used countless times since his initial steps with the @ symbol.

While the internet has existed for several decades – with its precursor roots going back to the Cold War, and far beyond – Tomlinson sent the first recognisably modern email back in 1971, as the first directly addressed person-to-person email communication.

While he always said that his – the world’s first – email was very forgettable, so he couldn’t remember what was in it, his legacy will never be forgotten ...

26 blanch Gazette 10 March 2016

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28 gazette 10 March 2016

SPORT

FastSport Ryan crash ends event on painful note: A CRASH in the women’s Points Race ended Garda cycling club’s Caroline Ryan’s campaign at the UCI 2016 track cycling world championships last weekend.

Ryan was the last Irish rider in action at the championships, and had been riding aggressively in the points race before Yao Pang, from Hong Kong, crashed and slid down the track, taking down the Irish rider who suffered a broken collar bone as a result.

The race was eventually won by Poland Katarzyna Pawlowska, with Canada’s Jasmin Glaesser second.

The points race was a fast one, with no rider allowed to take a lap. While Ryan rode aggressively throughout the race, and was in many of the attempts to lap the field, none of the moves stuck.

In the closing laps, Pang lost control of her bike and came down, taking Ryan and two other riders with her.

golf: harrington bidding to get back on the road to silverware

Padraig’s healthy ambition  james hendicott sport@dublingazette.com

WITH THREE majors titles to his name and widely regarded as one of Ireland’s greatest sportsmen, Padraig Harrington has little left to prove.

Nevertheless, the Dubliner is nothing if not modest, and fiercely pragmatic. He is unwilling to go down the traditional route of professional sportsman and feed the media with polished sound bites. Instead, he owns up to struggling mentally, publicly examines his own health, and is quick to emphasise what he perceives as his own flaws.

“I won’t celebrate anything but a win,” is one such example. “The reality

is a win is so much bigger and better,” Harrington told GazetteSport. “I don’t really care about anything else. Nobody remembers who finishes fifth years down the line.

“Right now, I realistically need to win twice to be thinking about the Ryder Cup or the Olympics. That can make things difficult, as anything else feels like failure.”

The ambitious thought process extends to majors, too, and the big tournaments are notoriously hard to win.

“I don’t think a fourth major is that big a deal,” Harrington explains, despite having won all three of his trophies at golf’s top table in the heady era of 2007 and 2008.

“There’s not that big of a difference between winning three majors and four. Six would be different, as that would be the most for a European. It feels like I can win another one. I was close last year; I led at the Open for 59 holes, until losing that ball.”

Winning, according to Harrington, is about mentality and confidence, but also about habit. He will spend St Patrick’s Day in India to this end.

“I need to play more outside the States. It’s hard to win in the States, and strangely playing abroad as the marquee player works for me.

“You get the crowd behind you, you get put up in the penthouse suite and people treat you like

Flora ProActiv ambassador Padraig Harrington has today launched the Flora cholesterol awareness campaign this week. Picture

a star. Then you play like a star. It worked for me in Indonesia recently and it builds confidence” Harrington has also hooked up with Flora ProActiv, in particular to promote care around cholesterol, for which he took a successful 21-day reduction challenge.

Harrington also hopes the health progress can help his game.

“Injuries take away confidence and cause overthinking,” he explains, suggesting along the way that Tiger Wood’s recent loss of form might have a

lot to do with his mental state.

“When you play well, your game feels great. The same happens the other way,” he argues. “You get frustrated when you’re not doing things right.

I’ve found at times that I know what I’m supposed to do, and that frustrates me, as it’s hard to understand why it’s not working. Then it gets worse.”

With a reputation for being outspoken, Harrington has occasionally shocked by making rare admissions when such cycles come into play -

including telling the press that he’s struggling mentally.

“I get some feedback,” he agrees. “And it’s valid, though I don’t pay too much attention to it. I’ll have an argument with anyone. Like sitting in front of the football, I’ll have something to say about the players.

“But you never know what’s really going on.

A player could be out of position or stifled by strategy. It’s the same in golf; there are so many factors at play someone watching will not know about.”

Meteors book semi-final berth with Wildcats win  sport@dublingazette.com

Both Meteors and Killester have advanced to their hopes in the basketball playoffs

METEORS booked their place in the semi-finals of the women’s basketball Premier League playoffs with a 59-57 win at home to Maxol WIT Wildcats.

The Dublin side now face table toppers DCU Mercy next week, having controlled their bout with the Waterford side for the 40 minutes.

“We lead most of the game and probably did enough to warrant the win,” said winning coach Mark Byrne. “The old cliche about defence winning

games did the trick for us as well.”

Emily Leer came up with a strong block on Jazmen Boone in the dying seconds as Wildcats threatened to force the game into overtime.

Pyrobel Killester made home advantage count in their quarter-final but it was another close encounter as Singleton SuperValu Brunell missed an opportunity to level the game with six seconds to go.

“We cut it much tighter than we wanted,” said coach Karl Kilbride. “It was disappointing

to give up 83 points because we’ve been working on our defence lately but we did what we came to do.”

Killester will travel to reigning champions Team Montenotte Hotel for the other semi-final.

Killester’s men’s Premier League side brought their regular season came to a close by claiming second place in the table and a semi-final berth in the post-season Champions Trophy.

Triple-digit scores against both Belfast Star and UL Eagles in the final rounds saw them

overhaul Templeogue whose win over UCD Marian wasn’t enough to hold onto the runners’ up spot.

C&S UCC Demons were presented with the Men’s Premier League trophy after their 99-71 win over Eanna.

Maree were winners of the men’s National League Division One. The Galway side finished the season with a 21-1 record to secure both league and cup honours and closed out with a 76-74 win at second-placed KUBS.

10 March 2016 gazette 29

Gazette

Flying Ducks look to future plans on ice With a new home in Blanchardstown, the Flying Ducks ice hockey club are working hard to grow the grassroots of their sport, one which has undergone plenty of recent upheaval  stephen kelly sport@dublingazette.com

AISLING Daly stands comfortably on the ice.

Her pupils listen eagerly to her instructions and patient teaching as they gingerly grasp on to the sides of the ice rink’s ledge.

They are wearing more armour than an American SWAT team – helmets, shoulder pads, elbow pads, knee pads with enough accompanying protective socks to survive an arctic winter.

Some of them remark that they are not wearing enough.

They are the Dublin Flying Ducks senior Learn to Skate class a group made up of some adults who just want to learn to skate, others who have ambitions of making the Flying Ducks’ senior team in the future, as well as a few parents of junior players who want to at

least try to keep up with their children.

Based in the Blanchardstown Ice Rink in a large marquee tent, it is the home of Dublin’s newest ice hockey team.

They formed after a merger between two long standing clubs: the Dublin Ducks and the Dublin Flyers.

Daly is the club president and says that for her, the reason for the merger was simple. There were not enough junior players at either club or enough adult players to have sustainable senior team.

Since setting up in Blanch, Daly says she is “seeing an increased interest from new players joining the club” with the junior section expanding to over 130 players.

Daly is hugely optimistic about the future of the club, especially with five of the clubs players representing Ireland this year in America and Canada.

Young members of the Flying Ducks club at a recent event

“Five will go to Boston and Toronto to represent Ireland and will play in two NHL arenas in both America and Canada and will play in front of 35,000 people in each of those arenas.”

Indeed, the Irish Ice Hockey Association are sending 18 young players, the majority of whom are from the Ducks, to Boston to represent Ireland in a showcase of four matches against US youth teams on St Patrick’s week, including the chance to play at the interval of a match between the Florida Panthers and the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Now, with the emergence of the Flying Ducks, the club cater for a Learn to Play group for the Under-8s, an Under12 squad, an Under-17 team and a growing senior team in the season that recently finished up.

Will Fitzgerald, who was president of the

Dublin Flyers and is now vice-president of the Flying Ducks, has been skating for 30 years, having skated for the first time in Dublin’s first ever ice rink in Dolphin’s Barn.

He and Daly know the importance of this merger for the development of ice hockey in Ireland.

cessful teams, The Dublin Rams and The Dundalk Bulls dissolve, a dark day for the sport.

Ice hockey in Ireland officially started in 1983 when the first match took place between the Dublin Stags and the Liverpool Leopards, the former winning 3-2

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

‘The aim is to give kids a passion for ice hockey and develop them to a professional level’ - Aisling Daly --------------------------------------------------------

“The aim of the club is to give the kids a passion for the sport,” Daly says.

“We also want to create a family environment and hopefully one day, develop some of our junior players to progress to professional level. We are in a far more sustainable position to do this now.”

With the season finished, there are hopes the proposed permanent ice rink at Liffey Valley can help offer year-round access to a facility for the sport.

Sustainability is such a desired commodity within the sport in Ireland. It has been plagued by ice rink and club closures in recent years. The first permanent ice rink, the Dundalk Ice Dome and its 2,000 seat stadium, closed down in 2010, which saw two of Ireland’s most suc-

From there, Ireland joined the International Ice Hockey Federation in 1997, taking part in the Junior World Championships in Bulgaria, Luxembourg and Iceland.

By early 2000, both of Dublin’s then existing ice rinks had closed down, including the ice rink in Dolphin’s Barn.

From there, the sport has existed in temporary ice rinks in Dublin to stay afloat.

It was in Dundalk that Ireland hosted the Division III World Championships in 2007, claiming a silver medal while they won gold at the same level in 2010.

The sport manages to stay alive via the passion and dedication of a small group of coaches and parents through its many struggles.

FastSport

Lawal leads Lucan to Tom Ticher national cup final EMMANUEL Lawal, pictured above, was the hero for Colaiste Phadraig as he snatched a late winner to ensure Lucan CBS’s path to the Bank of Ireland FAI Schools Tom Ticher Junior National Cup final this season following a tense encounter at the Peace Link, Clones last Friday.

They had last met St Eunan’s, Letterkenny, in 2010 when the Minor Cup catered for the Under-14 age group and it took penalties on that occasion to decide the winner.

The game finished 1-1 in extra time but it was Eunan’s who dominated the spot kicks to record a 4-1 win to progress to the national final.

This game was edging to penalties yet again but the Lucan star striker converted following some decent build up play by Josh Hogan for Lawal to slot past the hard-working Eoghan O’Boyle.

Jimmy Mwanga was the target man for the Leinster champions in the first half as the youngster had numerous chances to break the deadlock but O’Boyle was equal to the challenge for the Ulster outfit. Equally, St Eunan’s duo Zach Gorman and Conor O’Donnell linked well but couldn’t convert from distance.

Both sides were struggling to get a shot on target in the second period as the wind was proving difficult to contend with.

The stalemate remained and additional time was called. Yasser Maheant was gifted the opener two minutes in as he missed a sitter on the edge of the box.

The counter attack saw Shane Doherty one on one with goalkeeper Cian McGrane but his effort went inches wide of the mark.

Just when both sides were getting ready for penalties, up popped Lawal with the match winner with only seconds remaining on the clock.

Colaiste Phadraig now meet Oranmore men Calasanctius College in this year’s decider. Ruth Broderick’s charges won the Minor Cup 12 months previously so they’ll be favourites heading into the final.

Gazette

30 BLANCH gazette 10 March 2016

SPORT

FastSport

soccer: castleknock get the best of neighbours in under-19s

Barrable strikes late to win Luttrellstown battle DUBLINER Robert Barrable, along with navigator Ciaran Larkin claimed victory last weekend at the ALMC Endurance Trial in Luttrellstown, going one better than their performance in last year’s second place.

A cold and bright morning greeted competitors as they assembled at Luttrellstown Golf Club for round one of the 2016 Frank Keane Motors Endurance Championship, hosted by ALMC Motor Club. The route consisted of 23 selective stages, culminating in two night-time runs through the mud and loose-surfaced link roads in the grounds of the estate.

The slippery opening tests saw last year’s winners Eamonn Byrne and William Kelly take an early lead while local driver Karl O’Donoghue and reigning navigation champion Evin Hughes lay third after the opening loop.

Selectives six through to nine saw competitors travel across the county boundary into Meath to tackle two sealed-surface tests at Brindley’s and Stanley’s farmyards and a 3.5km selective at Fairyhouse racecourse.

A passing hail shower meant very tricky conditions in the farmyards, however all crews made it through unscathed. It was here that Barrable/ Larkin begun to move up the order, taking a second off O’Donoghue/Hughes in Brindley’s and matching leaders Byrne/Kelly in Stanley’s before taking six seconds off them through Fairyhouse Racecourse.

The second run through Luttrellstown saw Howard/Stewart capitalise, moving to third as O’Donoghue/Hughes and the Shinnors brothers both incurred one minute penalties for incorrectly transcribing a code board. Byrne and Kelly continued their consistent pace and remained in the lead at the halfway point just five seconds ahead of Barrable and Larkin.

After some running repairs, the crews went on their third loop of the estate and, despite some ruts developing on the selectives, most crews were still able to improve on their earlier times with Byrne and Barrable tying throughout the loop.

The leaders continued to tie throughout the second runs until Barrable again capitalised in Fairyhouse, Byrne dropping six seconds. From there on, he was unable to overturn Barrable’s advantage and had to settle for second place.

Alex Bradean saves for Castleknock Celtic as St Mochta’s attack in their recent Under-19s league clash in Porterstown Park.

Who Dares, wins local derby aul under-19 Castleknock Celtic St Mochta’s  sport@dublingazette.com

3 1

CASTLEKNOCK’S Under-19s claimed the bragging rights over local rivals as they shaded an evenly contested local derby with St Mochta’s in their top of the table clash in Porterstown.

Abidemi Dare had broken the deadlock on 10 minutes while Celtic thought they had stretched their lead on 25 minutes when Mikey Aherne found the net, but his effort was ruled out as the referee deemed it to be offside.

St Mochta’s got their

reward for their first half efforts when Ryan Cullinane equalised moments after the Celtic disallowed goal. The game continued to ebb and flow, but it was Celtic who made the next breakthrough after Conor Hamilton was taken down in the box. The Celtic striker converted the penalty to give his side the 3-1 edge at the interval.

The second half was again keenly contested with both sides going close.

It was St Mochta’s who were to suffer as an over-robust tackle by one of their players saw him reduce his team to 10. Celtic exploited their numerical advantage and

Cross Country O’Reilly produces fine run in Sligo nationals mount Sackville’s Dearbhile O’Reilly

finished in seventh place in the junior girls 2,500m event at the Glo Health All-Ireland Schools and Irish Universities Cross Country Championships in Sligo.

She was one of eight runners from the school to take part with Aisling Mohan finishing 15th in the intermediate race with Chloe Corcoran, Rebecca Ward, Eva Birmingham, Olivia Wallace, Lilian Brady and Aoife Kelly also taking part.

Picture: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile

it was man of the match Dare who got the all-important third.

St Mochta’s did continue to create chances and were unlucky on a number of occasions not to score, being denied most of the game by some excellent goal keeping by Celtic number one, Alex Bradean, including one blinding save at point blank range late on.

The win for Celtic increases the gap to four points between them and St Mochta’s in the league table where they occupied fourth and sixth place at the start of play.

Elsewhere, Celtic’s AUL Premier B Sunday side faced Sheriff YC in

their league clash at the IT Blanch all-weather pitch last weekend. Goalless at half-time, Celtic started the second period with a goal almost instantly.

Kevin Keane seized on an opportunity to put the home side ahead. Sheriff exerted a lot of pressure in an effort to gain parity, but it was Celtic who were to extend their lead with 15 minutes to go.

Sylviu Aghinita got possession in the middle of the park, raced forward, and one-on-one, it looked a certain goal.

But the keeper upended the striker and the referee had no hesitation awarding the spot-kick. John Byrne stepped forward

after much delay as players protested and were booked.

The Celtic midfielder coolly slotted home, sending the keeper the wrong way. In fairness, the scoreline flattered Celtic as they had sustained a lot of Sheriff pressure with the visitors going close on a number of occasions.

It was no surprise, then, that 10 minutes from time, Sheriff finally converted one of their chances when Sam Fitzpatrick shot home from 10 yards.

Five minutes from time, the Sheriff recovery was complete when Alan O’Keeffe’s shot ricocheted into the net to bring the sides level at 2-2.

10 March 2016 BLANCH gazette 31

Gazette

Kilkenny and Lowndes in Gavin’s line-up  sport@dublingazette.com

CASTLENOCK’S Ciaran Kilkenny returned to Jim Gavin’s starting team as the Dublin senior footballers made it four wins from four in Division One of the Allianz Leagues against Cork last Saturday night in Croke Park.

Having started on a tough night in Mayo last month,

Kilkenny missed Dublin’s narrow win over Monaghan last week but was reinstated for the clash against the rebels.

Peregrine’s Eric Lowndes was also given a starting berth after his impressive performances. Following Gavin’s confirmation after the game that Jack McCaffrey will miss the rest of the year due to his

choice to travel abroad for his studies, Lowndes did his chances of stepping in for the Footballer of the Year no trouble in an assured display at the back.

The Dubs did it the hard way, giving Cork a 1-4 to no score start in the first 20 minutes while Jonny Cooper was shown a red card in the second half.

Diarmuid Connolly’s superbly taken goal brought the gap back to 2-7 to 1-3 at the interval.

The second half proved to be a different story as Dublin came out looking a different side with James McCarthy’s goal in the fourth minute of injury time capping the comeback, winning out 2-14 to 2-10.

football: west dublin rivals in top quality draw

Club Noticeboard st brigid’s A LAUNCH night and trial run for The

website for further details and regis-

Kube will take place in the club bar

tration.

this Sunday, March 13. All members,

Scor na bPaisti 2016 will take place

in particular the juvenile sections,

in St Peregrine’s GAA Club on Sunday,

are invited to attend. The Kube will be

March 13.

held in St Brigid’s on Saturday, April 2.

The St Brigid’s GAA nursery runs

Tickets €20 are available now from all

every Saturday in Russell Park from

contestants. A full list of contestants

9.30am to 11am. We welcome all four-

is available to view in the bar.

to seven-year-olds in the Castle-

Member registration is now open

knock and Blanchardstown area and

for the 2016 season. The deadline for

new members and families are always

registrations is March 31. All mem-

welcome. For further information

berships must be registered and

and queries, contact David on 085

finalised by this date. Full details and

8340169.

online payment are available on the club website.

The lotto jackpot carries over at €15,000 for this week’s draw in The

The St Brigid’s Easter Camp will

Vineyard on Thursday, March 10. The

take place from Monday, March 21 to

reserve jackpot rises to €13,400. Make

Thursday, March 24. In conjunction

sure to have your tickets in the draw

with the juvenile Easter Camp, there

or you can purchase on-line via our

will also be an advanced Easter camp

website: www.stbrigidsgaa.com.

for all players on March 22 and 23 from 11am to 1.30pm. See the St Brigid’s GAA

Our ladies football team will host a table quiz on March 16 in the club.

castleknock BHI failte ollmhor roimh Uachtaran

Our nursery, thanks to Tiger Child-

CLG Aogan O Fearghail chuig Comor-

care, take place on Saturday starting

tas Seachtar an taobh i Chaislean

at 10am. We look forward to welcoming

Cnucha.

all our young nursery boys and girls

Go raibh míle maith le gach duine a

for some sport agus spraoi, fun and

bhí ann. Sincere thanks to the Presi-

encouragement. New nursery mem-

dent of the GAA Aogan O Fearghail who

bers always very welcome; just turn

Castle and Lucan on a par in U-15 thriller

attended our Comortas 7s tourna-

up and introduce yourself to one of

ment for Seachtain na nGaeilge and

the many friendly mentors.

under-15 division 1

our Division 1 footballers open their

Well done to all who took part and

home account against Fingal Ravens

supported the Feile fundraising bag-

at 10.30am.

pack on Saturday in Dunnes Stores.

Castleknock’s 2001 side could not be separated from Lucan Sarsfields

Castleknock Lucan Sarsfields  eoin gormley

3-13 4-10

sport@dublingazette.com

CASTLEKNOCK and Lucan Sarsfields shared the spoils of Sunday’s Under-15 Division 1 clash in CBS Lucan in a highly entertaining game.

Castlenock were quickest off the mark and looked the sharper in the opening exchanges. Midfielder Niall Delahunty picked their first point with less than a minute played, this was followed by three more scores to give Castlenock an early 0-4 0-1 lead.

Lucan found their feet and hit back with two Mark Lavin Frees in quick succession. Despite this, it was Castlenock who were dictating play, thanks to their aerial dominance in the middle of the park and blistering pace when counter attacking.

Full forward Cillian Fitzmaurice was causing havoc and his hard work paid off, putting away the game’s first goal with 20 minutes played.

Castlenock suffered a major blow nearing the end of the half after they had a man sent off for dissent. To make matters worse, Lucan managed two goals before the break

to go in front for the first time, taking a one-point advantage.

Sarsfields continued from where they left off and began the second half at breakneck speed.

Despite their dominance, they failed to convert their chances and were left with four wides and no points.

Matt Dunne did eventually get Lucan’s side of the scoreboard ticking over as he sent the ball flying into the top corner of Seán Greene’s net from 15 meters out.

Soon after, Castlenock’s Eoin Sawyer capitalised on a dropped pass in the Lucan half of the pitch, and fired home after a

darting run. This goal was followed closely by a second from Conor Chawke who cut inside and finished from close range.

Castlenock nearly had their fourth when David Bohan’s effort rattled the post.

Castlenock looked comfortable until Matt Dunne rattled the Castlenock net once more with a cracking effort from the 21. It gave the Lucan lads hope.

Lucan substitute Bryan Tracey pointed from the ensuing kick out, tying left the game five to go.

Chawke’s free restored the lead but Mark Lavin did likewise in the final minute to secure the tie.

particularly for his positive words of

The Castleknock GAA Easter camp

encouragement regarding the club.

takes place from March 21 to 25. Appli-

It was a great day for all involved and

cation forms are available on www.

mile buiochas to all who helped out.

castleknock.net so download now and

Hard luck to our Division 2 hurlers

don’t miss out!.

who lost out to Parnell’s and congrats

Unfortunately, the club was tar-

to the minor football As who had a

geted by thieves last week and we

good win over Isles of the Sea. Big

appeal to all members to be careful

game in Somerton on Sunday when

and vigilant.

Naomh Peregrine THE minor lads took on Na Fianna on

and supporters who represented St

Sunday on a quest to secure a sec-

Peregrines GAA club.

ond win. Despite two great goals from

New players are always welcome by

Ryan Higgins and Conor Hynes in the

all teams; please check the club web-

second half, it wasn’t to be.

site, www.cnp.ie, for training times

Na Fianna dug deep to secure a win scoring two goals inside the last five

and mentors contact details if interested.

minutes. Final score: St Peregrine’s

Mother’s Day in the club was a real

2-8 to Na Fianna 3-8. Well done to all

treat this weekend. Plenty of Mammy’s

involved.

and Nanny’s out for their Sunday din-

The junior hurlers had a narrow win

ner filling the lounge and bar. Thank

against Whitehall this weekend. Down

you to all staff for the delicious food,

four points at half time, they didn’t let

cold drink and excellent service.

up and climbed back in front to secure a win 3-10 to 3-9. Well done lads.

Thank you to all players, mentors

St. Patricks Day; Thursday, March 17 – sponsored walk commencing at 11am sharp, meeting at the club at 10.30am.

32 BLANCH gazette 10 March 2016