Blanch 18 2 16 by Dublin Gazette

Gazette BLANCH

INSIDE: Focus Ireland calls on voters to back their

work in ending the homelessness crisis Page 25

General Election 2016: The Gazette helps you make an informed decision on your local representatives Pages 4 to 9

sport Soccer:

Castleknock Celtic young stars on rise Page 30

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February 18-24, 2016

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pumped up to win heart health recognition

Blanchardstown Community Training Centre is leading the charge for heart health in west Dublin after each winning a Healthy Eating Award and a Silver Active@Work Award from the Irish Heart Foundation. A growing number of companies are engaging with the IrishHeart Foundation’s health and wellbeing award programmes – which are boosting the heart health of some 50,000 employees nationwide - to help them become more physically active and have healthier diets. Pictured are Barry Dempsey, CEO, Irish Heart Foundation; Niamh Morgan, Blanchardstown Community Training Centre receiving the Healthy Eating Award and Tony O’Brien, director general, HSE.

Decision on children’s hospital is delayed An Bord Pleanala: Delay due to “complexity of issues in the case”.

 Ian Begley

A decision on planning permission for the new Children’s Hospital has been delayed by three months. There has been widespread opposition from a number of residents and groups

who want the hospital to be located at Connolly, Blanchardstown, instead of at St James’s Hospital. An Bord Pleanala said the delay is due to the “complexity of issues in the case”. Recently, organisations

representing children nationwide have united to launch a national petition to build the new children’s hospital at a 145-acre Connolly site. Minister for Health Leo Varadkar said: “Ever y further year that the chil-

dren’s hospital is delayed could potentially cost another €50m…There is no case for any further delays. If we change the site again, no child alive today will ever get to use the new hospital.” Full Story on Page 2

2 BLANCH Gazette 18 February 2016

health | DECISION IS DELAYED DUE TO THE COMPLEXITY OF ISSUES

Children’s Hospital faces opposition from locals  IAN BEGLEY news@dublingazette.com

The residents want the hospital located here, at Connolly, Blanchardstown

A decision on planning permission for the new Children’s Hospital has been delayed by three months. There has been wide spread opposition from a number of residents and groups who want the hospital to be located at Connolly, Blanchardstown instead of at St James’s Hospital. Independent, statutory body, An Bord Pleanala (ABP) was due to make a decision on the €650m development last week, but have now said that a decision will be announced before May 12. The delay is due to the “complexity of issues in the case”, according to a letter sent to interested parties by ABP. R e c e n t l y, o r g a n i sations representing children nationwide have united to launch a national petition to build the new children’s hospital at the 145-acre M50 Connolly site instead of at St James’s. T he group, which counts the Jack & Jill Foundation, Mummypages.ie, the New Children’s Hospital Alliance, Jimmy Sheehan, Orthopaedic Surgeon and founder of the Blackrock Clinic, is urging voters around the country to become informed, sign the petition and make it a doorstep issue before “it is too late”. T hey believe that

there are many advantages to developing the new children’s hospital in Blanchardstown, such as a potential 145acre site, easier access to those living outside Dublin, extensive parking possibilities, and colocation with Connolly Adult Hospital and the new Rotunda Maternity Hospital. They also believe the hospital would be cheaper and faster to build at Connolly. According to Jim Sheehan “There is a saving of at least €200m by building at Connolly and that it could be operational within two years. The St James’s site is riddled with construction complications and will be prone to cost overruns and construction delays.” The Connolly site is also receiving support from parents of sick children across Ireland. Fionnbar Walsh, father of the late Kerry teenager Donal Walsh, said he firmly believes the Children’s Hospital should be located beside the M50 for better access for rural communities, saying that, “Trying to cram it into a city centre site is not good for the rest of the country”. Sam Hogan, mother of a five-year-old girl with a life-long illness, says that, “Connolly would be the fairy-tale, it would tick all the boxes and be a fantastic hospital for our children, whereas St James’s is just going

to be exactly what we already have.” Cllr David McGuinness (Ind), who is also backing this campaign, has expressed anger at the delay on the planning decision on St James’s Street site for the National Children’s Hospital. “Given my stronglyheld view that Connolly Blanchardstown is the most appropriate location in the country, I am now challenging Ministers Leo Varadkar and Joan Burton to show leadership on this issue and stand with their community in Dublin West in support of the Blanchardstown Site,” he said. Commenting on the hospital’s delay, local minister Leo Varadkar said: “Every further year that the children’s hospital is delayed could potentially cost another €50m. Temple Street is very old and no longer fit for purpose, and the same applies to parts of Crumlin. There is no case for any further delays. Arguments about the site have been going on for decades now. If we change the site again, no child alive today will ever get to use the new hospital. “An Bord Pleanala will consider all of the planning issues independently and will make it’s decision before the summer. I am calling on everyone to back the decision once it’s made. Children can’t wait much longer.”

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

Tidy Towns volunteers are needed Ongar Tidy Towns are working tirelessly in making their community a pleasant town to live and visit and are appealing to local residents to help them out. The team of volunteers have been operating for over three years and are currently Dublin 15’s only Tidy Town group and are the proud overall winners of the Fingal Cleaner Communities award 2015. The next clean-up day is on Saturday, February 20 at 10am. Anyone interested in volunteering are asked to meet at the Ongar playground where they will be given bags and gloves, supplied by Fingal County Council. For more information about how to get involved visit the Ongar Tidy Towns Facebook page.

Young boy injured after he was hit by a truck A young boy is in hospital after being hit by a truck in Ongar during the morning school run. The boy was hit by a heavy goods vehicle on Tuesday, February 16 in the car park of the Ongar shopping centre in Blanchardstown. The boy, who is thought to be five, was taken to Temple Street Children’s Hospital, where his condition, gardai say, is serious. Anyone who may have witnessed the incident is asked to contact Blanchardstown Garda Station on 666 7000.

18 February 2016 BLANCH Gazette 3

transport | RESIDENTS ARE HAPPY WITH THE LATEST DEVELOPMENTS

clothing

Students recycling fashion

Level crossings are to remain open  IAN BEGLEY

The National Transport Authority (NTA) said it will undertake a public consultation with affected residents if there are future proposals to close level crossings in the Dublin 15 area. This will surely come as good news to residents who protested against the controversial proposal to close Porterstown level crossing in 2014, which had been postponed by Fingal County Council. In a letter sent to Cllr Roderic O’Gorman (GP), Anne Graham, Chief Executive of Fingal said: “I can confirm that there will be non-statutory consultation in advance of any formal consultation required for whatever

proposals emerge in relation to the level crossings on the Maynooth line. “However, we need to [complete] a certain level of analysis and preliminary design before such consultation becomes meaningful – it is rarely worthwhile to commence consultations without some alternatives having been developed to some level,” she said. Cllr O’Gorman has welcomed the confirmation, saying: “I am delighted that we have received confirmation from the NTA that, if there are future proposals to close level crossings in the Dublin 15 area, they will engage in genuine consultation with affected local communities. “This is an important

guarantee for Dublin 15 residents which will ensure that their views are not ignored in any future changes. “The attempt to close the Porterstown Road level crossing a number of years ago was badly mishandled and was a top-down attempt to impose a decision on a local community. “Vigorous activism by local residents blocked the proposal, but the entire episode undermined confidence in the NTA. Since then, I have been working to ensure that a new approach is taken by the organisation, in the event that it seeks to make changes to the level crossings in the future,” said Cllr O’Gorman.

Fingal Enterprise Award As part of the ‘Enterprise Week’ which takes place from the 7th to 13th March, six newly established and successful business owner/managers will relay how they have succeeded in setting up their new enterprises. And all six will be competing for the coveted prize, the “Fingal Enterprise Award winner 2016”. The overall winner will receive a cash prize of €5,000 courtesy of Fingal local Enterprise Office and AIB who are co-sponsors of the award. Pictured are Bobby Kerr of Dragons Den fame and Insomnia coffee shops; Paul Reid, Chief Executive of Fingal County Council; Oisin Geoghegan, Head of Enterprise, Local Enterprise Office Fingal;. Most events are completely free of charge, though a nominal fee applies to some. To find out more, visit www. localenterprise.ie/fingal.

Students of Blanchardstown Youthreach have reason to celebrate as their costume, made entirely from recycled products, was selected to contest in the eastern regional finals of the “Junk Kouture” 2016 awards. The contest, supported by Bank of Ireland, encourages young people to be imaginative in designing and creating couture clothing using everyday junk. Art teacher Caroline Murray said: Every student in the centre participated in the project by collecting everything that could be recycled from crisp packets to egg cartons. The project has made students more aware of the importance of recycling. They will contest in the eastern regional final in the Helix on March 7.

4 BLANCH Gazette 18 February 2016

election 2016 | who’s hoping to claim a seat

dublin west 4 sEATS 11 CANDIDATES

dublin rATHDOWN duN LAOGHAIRE 3 sEATS 9 CANDIDATES 4 sEATS 11 CANDIDATES LOST A SEAT

OUTGOING

Clockwise from top left: Joan Burton (Lab) TD / Tanaiste, Ruth Coppinger (AAA - PBP) TD, Leo Varadkar (FG)TD / Minister, Joe Higgins (SP) TD [Not Running]

Peter Mathews (Ind), Shane Ross (Ind), Alan Shatter (FG), Alex White (Lab)

Richard Boyd Barrett (PBP), Mary Mitchell O’Connor (FG) Sean Barrett (FG), Eamon Gilmore (Lab)

CANDIDATES

Joan Burton (Lab) TD / Tanaiste Ruth Coppinger (AAA - PBP) TD Leo Varadkar (FG) TD / Minister Jack Chambers (FF) Councillor Paul Donnelly (SF) Councillor David McGuinness (Ind) Councillor Roderic O’Gorman (GP) Councillor TJ Clare (Ind) Dermot Casey (Ind) Jo O’Brien (Renua) Catherine Noone (FG) Senator

Peter Mathews (Ind) TD Shane Ross (Ind) TD Alan Shatter (FG) TD Alex White (Lab) TD Joespha Madigan (FG) Councillor Sorcha Nic Cormaic (SF) Councillor Catherine Martin (GP) Councillor Mary White (FF) Senator Alan Daveron (Renua)

OUTGOING

Maria Bailey (FG) Cllr Richard Boyd Barrett (PBP) TD Mary Mitchell O’Connor (FG) TD Frank Cronin (Renua) Cormac Devlin (FF) Councillor Mary Hanafin (FF) Councillor Carol Hunt (Ind) Shane O’Brien (SF) Carrie Smyth (Lab) Councillor Ossian Smyth (GP) Councillor Raymond Whitehead (DDI) **Ceann Comhairle Sean Barrett (FG) is automatically re-elected

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| election 2016

duBLIN MID-WEST 4 sEATS 16 CANDIDATES OUTGOING

OUTGOING

Frances Fitzgerald (FG) TD / Minister, Derek Keating (FG) TD, Joanna Tuffy (Lab) TD, Robert Dowds (Lab) [not running] TD

CANDIDATES Frances Fitzgerald (FG) TD / Minister Derek Keating (FG) TD Joanna Tuffy (Lab) TD Eoin O Broin (SF) Councillor Gino Kenny (PBP) Councillor Lorraine Hennessy (WP) Councillor Clare Leonard (Ind) Councillor Francis Timmons (Ind) Councillor Paul Gogarty (Ind) Councillor Patrick Akpoveta (Ind) Anne-Marie McNally (SD) John Curran (FF) Christopher Healy (DDI) Haroon Khan (Ind) Tom Kivlehan (GP) Ronan Fafferty (GP)

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duBLIN fingal 5 sEATS 14 CANDIDATES

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GAINED A SEAT

Clare Daly (Ind), James Reilly (FG), Alan Farrell (FG), Brendan Ryan (Labour)

CANDIDATES Clare Daly (Ind) TD Barry Martin (PBP) Councillor Joe O’Brien (GP) Alan Farrell (FG) TD Louise O’Reilly (SF) Lorraine Clifford Lee (FF) Terry Kelleher (AAA-PBP) Darragh O’Brien (FF) Seantor Roslyn Fuller (Ind) James Reilly (FG) TD Brendan Ryan (Lab) TD Enda Ryan (United Left) Gerry Molly (Renua) Councillor Tony Murphy (Ind) Councillor Marcus De Brun (Ind) Feargal O’Connell (Ind)

6 BLANCH Gazette 18 February 2016

election 2016 | who’s hoping to claim a hotly contested seat in the

Hopefuls focusing on key personal, community issues Leo Varadkar (FG) Local Health Minister Leo Varadkar is seen as one of the top contenders in Dublin West with the possibility of becoming our next Taoiseach. Born in 1979, Varadkar is the son of an Indian father (a retired GP in Blanchardstown) and a mother from Waterford. W hile earning his medical degree in Trinity College, he joined Young Fine Gael and later co-opted to Fingal County Council in 2003 as a replacement for Sheila Terry. At the 2004 local elections, he was elected to the council to represent the Castleknock local electoral area and topped the poll. He is a former vicepresident of the Youth of the European People’s Party and an alumnus of the Washington Ireland Program. He

was elected to Dail Eireann at the 2007 general election and became p a r t y s p o ke s p e r s o n for Enterprise, Trade and Employment from 2007–2010. At the 2011 general e l e c t i o n , Va r a d k a r was re-elected to the Dail with 8,359 first preference votes and appointed Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport. Then in the cabinet reshuffle of July 2014, Va r a d k a r r e p l a c e d James Reilly as Minister for Health. Early last year, several months before the marriage referendum, Varadkar spoke publically for the first time about being gay on RTE Radio 1, which was met with widespread acclaim.

Joan Burton (Lab) Tanaiste Joan Burton faces a massive battle to save her seat in the Dail, but judging by her tire-

less election campaign it is evident that she will not go down without a fight. Burton was adopted as a baby and brought up in Inchicore where she later attended UCD and earned a degree in commerce. She is a Fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants and worked as a lecturer in Accountancy in the Dublin Institute of Technolog y and the University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. She first stood for election at the 1989 general election, when she stood as one of two Labour candidates in the Dublin Central constituency, but failed to get elected. At the local elections in 1991, she was elected to Dublin County Council for the Mulhuddart electoral area. Burton was first elected to the Dail at the 1992 general election, representing Dublin West and appointed

The General Election candidates are sure to hear about the need for improved public transport services, a particular concern are places like Ongar

Minister of State at the Department of Social Welfare in the Fianna Fail-Labour Party coalition. With the breakdown of that coalition and establishment of a Rainbow Coalition between the Labour Party, Fine Gael and Democratic Left in early 1995, she became Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs. She lost her seat at the 1997 general election to Joe Higgins of the Socialist Party and was re-elected to Fingal County Council in the 1999 local elections, on this occasion winning a seat in the Castleknock electoral area. She was re-elected to the Dail for Dublin West at the 2002 general election and was appointed the Spokesperson on Finance. She then went on to become deputy leader of the Labour Party in September 2007. Burton was re-elected to represent Dublin West at the 2011 general election, topping the poll on the 1st count with 9,627 votes. Labour polled badly at the 2014 local and European elections, leading to the resignation of Eamon Gilmore as leader. Burton announced her candidacy for the leadership to replace him and in July 2014, won the leadership election, defeating Alex Whiteby 78% to 22%/ Ta o i s e a c h , E n d a Kenny, appointed her as Tanaiste on the same day, becoming the first woman to lead the Labour party.

While there has been a number of new schools built over the past years, there is demand for more

Jack Chambers (FF) Deputy Mayor of Fingal County Council Jack Chambers is hoping to become the Fianna Fail

the head of the poll in Fingal County Council and then selected as the Deputy Mayor of the local authority. He also reopened the late Brian Lenihan’s constituency office last

Mulhuddart area from 2003 to 2014. She was co-opted to the council in 2003, replacing Joe Higgins and elected in 2004 and re-elected in 2009. She was an unsuccessful candidate

Many of Dublin West’s General Election candidates have a keen interest in the area’s natural treasures and open spaces (such as Farmleigh, above), with candidates sharing an interest in developing the county for the future, while also fostering an appreciation of Dublin West’s diverse assets

candidate for Dublin West in the next General Election, promising to give his constituents “full-time commitment and honesty in public life”. Chambers was born in Galway to Mayo parents and at the age of two and moved to Dublin West where he grew up and attended school. He has a medical background and hold an honours degree in Law and Political Science from Trinity College. At the local elections in 2014, he was elected at

year where he holds regular clinics and meets with residents.

Ruth Coppinger (AAA) Ruth Coppinger of the Socialist Party is a politician whose main priorities are to abolish the water charges, increase the number of social homes in Dublin West and to alleviate the homeless crisis. Coppinger became a member of Fingal County Council for the

at the 2011 Dublin West by-election. She later joined party colleague Joe Higgins in the Dail as a result of the 2014 by-election in the same constituency. Upon being elected, she called for a mass campaign of opposition to water charges being imposed by the Fine Gael-Labour Party coalition. Coppinger was elected as a TD at the 2014 Dublin West by-election, which was instigated by the resignation of independent TD Patrick Nulty.

18 February 2016 BLANCH Gazette 7

Dublin West constituency TJ Clare (Ind) Having stood unsuccessfully in the 2014 local elections for the Castleknock LEA of Fingal County Council, TJ Clare (Ind) is now contesting a General Election for the first time. Clare who is, originally from Dun Laoghaire, moved to Athy in Kildare as a child, returning to Dublin when he was 18 years of age in 2008, where he currently resides in Dublin West. He graduated from St Patrick’s College of Education, Drumcondra, with a Bachelor of Education Degree. He is now a primary school teacher in Scoil Bhride BNS, Blanchardstown Village and promises to be a “strong, progressive and left Independent TD” if elected.

made headlines when he resigned from Fianna Fail indicating that he could not support a party who chose a candidate (Jack Chambers) to run in the 2015 general election with “no life experience” or “working record”.

Paul Donnelly (SF) Local Cllr Paul Donnelly (SF) is another candidate for Dublin West set to top the polls in the General Election. Deeming himself as “one of the hardest working public repre-

Senator Catherine Noone (FG) Senator Catherine Noone is currently running alongside Minister Leo Varadkar in the general election and believes she is more than capable of doing so based on her years of political experience. In 2011, Noone was elected to the Industrial and Commercial Panel of the 24th Seanad and is currently Fine Gael’s Seanad spokesperson on European Affairs. She is a solicitor with

adding that in order to bring about big changes in our country, you need a strong voice in Dail Eireann. O’Gorman is chairman of the Green Party and member of Fingal County Council and a university lecturer in DCU, where he teaches law. As an openly gay politician, O’Gorman actively supported the Yes campaign throughout the lead-up to the marriage referendum. O’Gorman has run in several general and local elections, and was elected in the 2014 local elections.

David McGuinness (Ind) David McGuinness is an Independent alliance politician who was first elected to Fingal County Council in 2009, becoming Dublin west’s youngest councillor, at 22 years of age. McGuinness was born and raised in Sheephill Park, Corduff and graduated from Trinity College with an Honours Bachelor Degree in Music, Education and History. McGuinness subsequently ran on a twoperson ticket in the general election of February, 2011 with the late Brian Lenihan, which helped secure Fianna Fails only seat in Dublin that year. He was selected the following October by Fianna Fail Dublin West, to contest the By Election caused by the death of his colleague Brian Lenihan TD and finished second with 21.7% of the first preference vote. In 2015, McGuinness

Of course, jobs are a concern right across the board

sentatives in the Dublin West Constituency”, Donnelly was elected in 2014 with the highest First preference votes in the Mulhuddart Ward and topped the poll in the by election with over 6,000 votes. He currently works for the Child and Family Agency as a Support Network Co Ordinator and the Dublin 17 School Completion Programme. Cllr Donnelly has also been active in many community organisations including the Safer Blanchardstown Forum, Blanchardstown Local Drug Task Force, Fingal Housing Forum, Mountview Environmental group, Defend Connolly Hospital campaign and is currently the Under 11’s hurling and football team mentor in St Peregrine’s GAA Club.

expertise in the area of commercial litigation and speaks fluent Italian having studied at the Universita di Verona. Noone is keenly interested in the Arts and believe it to be more important than ever as a sector in these financially turbulent times. She also endeavours to promote tourism by promoting incentives and measures to strengthen the Irish Tourism industry.

Roderic O’Gorman (GP) C ll r Roderic O’Gorman (GP) says he will use his skills to provide effective representation and leadership for all the residents of Dublin West if elected,

Dermot Casey (Ind) Dermot Casey is an Independent candiadte who also ran in the local elections in 2014 but was unsuccessful. He is trying to gain enough votes in his constituency this time around.

Jo O’Brien (Renua) Jo O’Brien is the Renua candidate for Dublin West constituency. As a UCC M.SC Computer Science graduate and former lecturer in Waterford IT, she hopes to bring a logical approach to tackling key issues and problems. For a number of years she worked on a wide variety of computer software systems in the UK and the US before returning to Dublin 15 in 1999.

8 BLANCH Gazette 18 February 2016

election 2016 | who’s hoping to claim a seat in the city

dublin nortH WEST dublin CENTRAL dublin bay north 3 sEATS 11 CANDIDATES 3 sEATS 15 CANDIDATES 5 sEATS 21 CANDIDATES OUTGOING

OUTGOING

LOST A SEAT

OUTGOING

From top left: Finian McGrath (Ind), Aodhan O’Riordan (Lab), Tommy Broughan (Ind), Richard Bruton (FG)

CANDIDATES Cathleen Carney Boud (SF) Dessie Ellis (SF) Andrew Keegan (AAA -PBPA) John Lyons (Lab) Paul McAuliffe (FF) Noel Rock (FG) Roisin Shortall (SD) Caroline Conroy (GP) Jimmy Dignam (Ind) Cormac McKay (Direct Democracy Ireland) Bernie Hughes (Ind)

From top left: Dessie Ellis (SF), John Lyons (Lab), Roisin Shorthall (SD)

CANDIDATES

Joe Costello (Lab), Paschal Donohoe (FG), Mary Lou McDonald (SF), Maureen O’Sullivan (Ind)

CANDIDATES Christy Burke (Ind) Joe Costello (Lab) Paschal Donohoe (FG) Mary Fitzpatrick (FF) Gary Gannon (SD) Mary Lou McDonald (SF) Maureen O’Sullivan (Ind) Cieran Perry (Ind) Eilis Ryan (Ind) Diana O’Dwyer (AAA - PBPA) Ian Noel Smyth (GP) Cormac McKay (Direct Democracy Ireland) William DJ Gorman (Ind) Kerry Guinan (Ind) Jacqui Gilbourne (Renua)

Jimmy Guerin (Ind) Sean Haughey (FF) Deirdre Heney (FF) John Lyons (AAA - PBPA) Michael McDonncha (SF) Finian McGrath (Ind) Denise Mitchell (SF) Naoise O Muiri (FG) Aodhain O’Riordan (Lab) Averil Power (Ind) Tommy Broughan (Ind) Richard Bruton (FG) Stephanie Regan (FG0 Cian O’Callaghan (Social Democrats) Michael O’Brien (AAA - PBPA) Donna Cooney (GP) Paul Clarke (Ind) Tom D’Arcy (Direct Democracy Ireland) Damien O’Neill (Ind) Proinsias O Conarain (Ind) Terence Flanagan (Renua)

GAINED A SEAT

18 February 2016 BLANCH Gazette 9

we look at who will get your vote | election 2016

dublin SOUTHCENTRAL 4 sEATS 13 CANDIDATES

dublin BAY SOUTH

OUTGOING

4 sEATS 14 CANDIDATES

GAINED A SEAT

Lucinda Creighton (Renua), Kevin Humphreys (Lab), Eoghan Murphy (FG) Catherine Byrne (FG), Eric Byrne (Lab), Joan Collins (Ind), Aenghus O’Snodaigh (SF)

CANDIDATES Catherine Ardagh (FF) Catherine Byrne (FG) Eric Byrne (Lab) Joan Collins (Ind) Maire Devine (SF) Paul Hand (Ind) Aenghus O’Snodaigh (SF) Brid Smith (AAA - PBPA) Liam Coyne (Social Democrats) Oisin O hAlmhain (GP) Richard Murray (Ind) Neville Brady (Ind) Michael Gargan (Renua)

CANDIDATES Chris Andrews (SF) Lucinda Creighton (Renua) Kevin Humphreys (Lab) Eoghan Murphy (FG) Jim O’Callaghan (FF) Kate O’Connell (FG) Eamon Ryan (GP) Mannix Flynn (Ind) Glenna Lynch (Social Democrats) Annette Mooney (AAA PBPA) William DJ Gorman (Ind) Alan MacStiofain (Ind) John Keigher (Ind) Eoin Tierney (Ind)

10 BLANCH Gazette 18 February 2016

Gazettegallery

| The Gazette catches up with candidates as they

Darragh O’Brien (FF) braves the rain Off and running: Senator Eamonn Coghlan and Senator Catherine Noone

Fianna Fail candidate Jack Chambers is joined by Mary O’Rourke and Conor Lenihan

Cllr Josepha Madigan (FG) with YMCA Hockey Club players at Wesley College

Purple rain: Anne-Marie McNally (Social Democrat)

Enda Kenny (FG) gets a lesson

Leo Varadkar (FG) goes under cover

Poster boy : Independent TJ Clare

Pecks appeal: Roderic O’Gorman (Green Party) and his team

18 February 2016 BLANCH Gazette 11

canvass across Dublin city in the run up to the general election

Alan Shatter (FG) talks to a young constituent

Time for a selfie: Fianna Fail General Election candidate Lorraine CliffordLee

Joe Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Brien of the Green Party

Any question? Andrew Keegan (PBP)

Independent Roslyn Fuller takes a selfie while canvassing with her team

12 blanch Gazette 18 February 2016

Gazettegallery

| special preview screening of Zoolander 2 at

Leia Holmes and Charlene Reilly

Lyn Johnson and Catherine White

Norman Pratt and Jess Corcoran

Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re so hot right now

Joshua Edwards, Taylor Fisher, Brianna Creighton and Jenny Byrne. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

18 February 2016 blanch Gazette 13

the Savoy Cinema attracts a very fashionable audience

Timmi and Graham O’Hare

Tatianna Fortune Woods and Emily Jade Elliott

Lisa McLoughlin and Alexandra Ryan

Lauren Lapwood and Stephanie O’Riordan

Louise Byrne and Suzy Blunden

Gazette

14 Gazette 18 February 2016

dublinlife

FEATURE

A day in the life: Sophie Jo Wasson just finished touring the Poor Little Boy With No Arm

‘We wanted to do something dynamic’

Ian Begley

Sophie Jo Wasson is a young Irish actress who recently finished up with the touring production of The Poor Little Boy With No Arms, which she devised and co-wrote. T his week, T he Gazette caught up with Sophie to see what a day in her life was like while preparing for this unique and bizarre dark comedy.

“We did four weeks of rehearsals, which would be pretty much standard for every show. While touring we basically arrived at each venue a couple of hours before the play began to do checks until the show started at 8pm. “It all depends what time I get up at in the morning. Many actors have meetings, auditions and are maybe prepping for another show so their day-to-day

schedule would change a lot. “I work part-time in a bakery and if I have a show on the night I would probably get up around nine. “Every actor seems to have different ways of making things work for them. “The way in which this play was thought up was through us wanting to make something really entertaining and also something a little

spooky. “We thought that a lot of the theatre shows that we’ve seen were a little diluted and safe. We wanted to do something a little dynamic and challenging for an audience. “The Poor Little Boy With No Arms is a play on the common Irish empathy that many people have towards those who have something wrong with them. “He’s the name of one of the characters, but he certainly doesn’t sum it up the play – there’s a lot more to it. The play constantly changes between two and six characters. I play a woman and a couple of other characters, including a donkey.” Asking if it is hard to constantly change characters, Sophie said: “No, it’s the best craic ever and it’s so much fun. As an actor it’s such a gift to be able to just get on stage and play multiple roles and have a bit of craic creating them and making them different. “It’s fun for the audience as well because of the whole nature of the play. “ We e ve n c h a n g e characters in front of them, but eventually they just accept it and accept that there are more than six characters on stage.” Asked how she unwinds after a night of giving it socks on stage, Sophie said “Pints”. “It’s such a stereotype for actors to enjoy having a few drinks after a show, but when you come off stage you’re just filled with adrenaline. “It’s also just nice to sit down with your fellow actors and debrief and have a bit of a laugh.”

Sophie Jo Wasson is a young Irish actress

18 February 2016 Gazette 15

A little lolly goes a long way to help raise funds for charity an Annual Lollipop Day in aid of the Oesophageal Cancer Fund (OCF), is taking place on February 26 and 27 to help raise vital funds for oesophageal cancer. Lollipop Day involves thousands of people selling lollipops (€2) nationwide. Without the generosity and support from volunteers, the OCF would not be able to provide the vital role it does in terms of awareness, research and better outcomes for patients and their families in Ireland. Businesses, companies and schools can support the OCF by holding Lollipop Day events and/or by selling lollipops on their premises. Noelle Ryan, OCF chairperson said: “We are very fortunate to have an ever increasing number of dedicated volunteers, all of whom make Lollipop Day possible and a success every

year, but we still need more volunteers.” Visit lollipopday.ie for more information.

stamps issued to mark centenary of the Easter Rising A set of 16 stamps marking the centenary of the 1916 Easter Rising has been issued by An Post. Huge national and international demand is expected for the “19162016 Eighth Definitive Stamp Series” commemorating the key founding event of the modern Irish state. The stamps are grouped into four categories: Leaders and Icons; Participants; Easter Week and The Aftermath. Although each image represents an individual subject, the themes also reflect a chronological progression from the lead-up to the Rising through to its aftermath. The stamps have been

Got a picture? share it with us! A picture tells a story Got a great picture, email it to us! email your photo to picturedesk@dublingazette.com Or call our news team on 60 10 240 and SELECT OPTION 2

designed as a narrative rather than as 16 individual images. An Post’s Anna McHugh said: “These will be the ‘everyday’ stamps, available for the rest of this year at all post offices and in special souvenir packs and booklets too at www.irishstamps. ie.”

promoting sustainable modes of transport The Green Schools Big Travel Challenge 2016 has begun and schools across the country are already switching their travel modes. An Taisce has been working on the national Green-Schools Travel programme, which focuses on promoting sustainable travel on the school run, since September 2008. The ultimate aim of the Green Schools Travel programme is to encourage students, parents and teachers to walk, cycle, scoot, Park ‘n’ Stride, use public transport or car pool. During February, the Green Schools pro gramme is calling on over 1,500 eligible schools to challenge students, teachers and parents to try walking, cycling, scooting, carpooling, or taking public transport to school. “What change can you achieve in two weeks?” is the question posed. Schools are asked to concentrate on one sustainable transport mode for two weeks this month to see if they can achieve real, lasting change in the travel behaviour of their staff and students.

Following a judging process one school will be awarded the title “Ireland’s Travel School of the Year” with schools also awarded in categories related to the mode they chose to promote. Visit greenschoolsireland.org

Trocaire’s 43rd Lenten campaign gets underway Last Wednesday, February 10, marked the start of the Lenten Campaign when almost one million Trocaire boxes were delivered across the country. Last year, thanks to support from people in Ireland, Trocaire supported over 2.4 million people across Africa, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East. This included 45,000 poor families who got access to local resources, including land and water. Trocaire protected over 700 human rights defenders who were abused and attacked in Guatemala and over 6,000 women, who survived abuse, got healthcare, counselling and legal aid to get justice. This year is Trocaire’s 43rd Lenten campaign. Tr o c a i r e b oxe s a r e available from parishes throughout Dublin, through trocaire.org or by phoning 1850 408 408. As well as donating through the Trocaire box and trocaire.org, people can download a free Trocaire box app for their mobile phones or tablets. The app is available from the Apple App Store or Google Playstore.

Lollipop Day will take place on February 26 and 27

Gazette

DIARY

16 Gazette 18 February 2016

18 February 2016 Gazette 17

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

Bord Gais Energy Theatre: playful mixture of madness and intrigue

A banging musical treat  Emma Nolan

One of the world’s favourite musicals — Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is running at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre from this month until March 13. The film, made from Ian Fleming’s classic story, has been adapted for the stage by Jeremy Sams, based on the

MGM Motion Picture licensed script adapted by Ray Roderick which has left audiences flying high with its playful mixture of madness and intrigue. The star-studded cast consists of comedian Jason Manford (The Producers, Sweeney Todd) as Caractacus Potts, Michelle Collins (Coronation Street,

EastEnders,) as Baroness Bomburst, Phill Jupitus (The Producers, Hairspray) as Lord Scrumptious/Baron Bomburst and Martin Kemp (Spandau Ballet, EastEnders and The Krays) as The Childcatcher. The show also features Amy Griffiths (Ever y man, Stephen Wa r d , T h e P a j a m a

Game) as Truly Scrumptious and Andy Hockley (The Phantom Of The Opera) as Grandpa Potts. T he lovable but whacky inventor, Potts, along with his two children and the gorgeous Truly Scrumptious, try to outwit the bombastic Baron Bomburst who has decreed that all children should be banished from his kingdom? What happens when the children are caught and imprisoned with the other youngsters by the evil Child Catcher? Will it all end happilyever-after? Having broken all box office records in the West End, this funfilled production from the team that brought you Fiddler on the Roof and The King and I

promises laughs and magic galore – and Chitty herself! The production has music and ly rics by Richard M Sherman and Robert B Sherman, who were also responsible for Mary Poppins, The Slipper and the Rose, The Aristocats and The Jungle Book. The Sherman Brothers have won two Academy Awards with a further nine nominations, two Grammy Awards and they have received 21 gold and platinum albums. This new production of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is directed by West Yorkshire Playhouse artistic director James Brining, with new choreography by Stephen Mear. There is a live orchestra with musical super-

vision by Stephen Ridley. Set and costume design is by Simon Higlett, lighting design is by Tim Mitchell, sound design is by Ben Harrison and video design is by Simon Wainwright. The sensational sets and special effects and, of course, the memorable score by the Sherman Brothers, which includes such standards as Truly Scrumptious, Toot Sweets, Hushabye Mountain and the Oscar-nominated title song Chitty Chitty Bang Bang. Prices range from €20 to €60 for the show at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre at Grand Canal Square, Docklands, Dublin 2. For more information and to book tickets, visit www.bordgaisenergytheatre.ie

Jason Manford (centre) as Caractacus Potts and the cast of Chitty Chitty Bang Bang will be in the Bord Gais Energy Theatre until March 13



Gazette

18 Gazette 18 February 2016

Pets 50 cent IS A VOCAL LITTLE HUSKY PUPPY

The Gazette Newspaper has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week is 50 Cent, a male Husky Cross, aged six months. He came to Dogs Trust with his mom, sisters and brothers, who have all found homes — so now it’s his turn. 50 Cent is a very playful and clever little boy with loads of energy and as a typical Husky can get a little bit vocal sometimes. He will grow to be a very big boy, so would benefit from starting training classes while young. These would be a great and fun way for his new family to get to know him better. If you’re interested in this amazing boy please contact Dogs Trust on 01-879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www.dogstrust.ie. You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE.

18 February 2016 Gazette 19

BITESIZEDNEWS

Gazette

FOOD&DRINK

easy recipes: CHEF LIAM BOLAND MAKES SOME TASTY DISHES

Try some good food made simple  AUDREY KANE

IRELAND’S fastest growing and most popular food websites BiaMaith was established in December 2014 by chef Liam Boland.

T he site has quickly become a go-to resource for families and foodies who want to make amazing food on a budget. Liam’s simple, healthy and delicious recipes are quick and easy to follow

and can turn anyone into a confident and accomplished home cook. BiaMaith was born after Liam started posting recipes on Facebook for his friends, who were amazed that he

could cook such fantastic food on such a tight budget. They quickly started being shared and in just a few months, Liam’s online following had grown to over 20k likes and hundreds of thou-

sands of views. In December 2015, he released his debut cookbook, Good Food Made Simple, which was one of the bestselling cook books in Ireland over the festive period. Check out www.biamaith.ie.

This butter chicken curry will get your tastebuds flowing Simple to make yet one of the nicest curries you will ever eat. One all the family can enjoy. Ingredients THE MARINADE Chicken Fillets - 4 Low-Fat Natural Yogurt - 7 tbsp Fresh Ginger - 1 inch piece finely chopped Garlic Cloves 4 finely chopped Garam Masala - 3 tsp Ground Clove - 1/2 tsp Ground Cumin - 2 tsp

• • •

Butter Chicken (murgh makhani)

• • •

•

THE SAUCE Green Cardamom - 4 Sugar - 2 tsp/salt - 1 tsp Vegetable Oil - 3 tbsp Coconut Milk - 1 tin Tomato Passata - 250g Ground Almownds 100g Chicken Stock Cube Fresh Coriander

• • • • • • • •

Getting Ready... You will need - 1 wok or medium pot, 1 wooden spoon, 1 medium

tupperware container or bowl, 1 sharp knife, 1 raw meat chopping board and 1 ladle. METHOD Cut the chicken into 2.5cm cubes. Mix all the marinade ingredients, including the chicken, in the tupperware container. Coat all the chicken. Cover with the lid and leave in the fridge for 4 hours . Heat the oil in the wok, pan or

• • • •

pot then add the chicken and all the marinade. Cook for about 5 minutes giving it a little stir every now and then. Add the tomato passata, coconut milk, green cardamom pods, salt and sugar then stir in, bring to the boil then turn the heat right down and let it simmer, uncovered for 20 - 25 minutes. Add the stock cube, ground almonds and half the chopped coriander, stir well.

•

20 Gazette 18 February 2016

18 February 2016 Gazette 21

Gazette

STYLE

Let’s get blog to fashion basics  sarah foster

THERE are so many fashion blogs to follow, it’s not always easy to find one that suits your style. Here are some worth a look ...

www.retro-flame. com Erika Fox is a Kerry girl currently living in New York City. She has worked in fashion PR, with Whitney Port at NYFW, and recently with oliviapalermo.com. This blog is a compact diary of her outfits, travel, work & inspirations. www.pennyandpolaroids.com This visual journal is Nuala Gorham’s creative outlet to express her inspirations and love of Whether following some of the main trends and styles, or singular fashions – such as pieces from Alexander McQueen Spring/Summer 2016 collection, above – there are lots of fresh styles to transition into away from the gloomy winter wear we’ve all been used to for too many months now

Let’s transition to fresher fashions  sarah foster

FEBRUARY is a time of transition for fashionistas. We are so over winter, and ready to welcome the spring! Way back in September 2015, the spring/summer ’16 fashion trends graced the catwalks in Paris, New York, Milan and London. The weather might still be freezing, but that’s even more reason to introduce new colours, shapes and patterns to kick-start the spring with these top trends ... Strength: Mixing tailoring with sportswear for kick-ass combinations, military jackets give a strong sculpted silhouette.

Team with metallic safety buckle belts to give waist definition. Counterbalance the masculinity of blazers and bomber jackets with feminine blousons and dresses. The colour pallet for this trend is camouflage and jungle green, offset by flashes of tangerine and hot pink (as seen at Versace, Moschino, Balmain and Louis Vuitton). This trend has been spotted on Gigi Hadid, Heidi Klum and Kendal Jenner. Tropical : This trend is all about good-time-girl vibes. Acid Brights are key to this trend; a magenta pink pleated dress can be layered with warmer items – tone it down with neutral colours.

As seen at Stella McCartney, Oscar de la Renta and Christopher Kane; find neon brights at any of your High Street favourites this season. Gym to street: For women living in the real world who like to get things done, perfect the art of smart casual with sleek panelled leggings, metallic gym bags and, of course, the crop top. Match runners with a tennis skirt and a jersey sweater for an urban look. As seen at Stella McCartney, Chanel, Lacoste and Chloe, this look is worn by Gigi Hadid, Karlie Kloss and Vanessa Hudgens. Victoriana: A continuation of the hit winter trend, key features include high collars, full sleeves,

textures and floor-sweeping skirts. Lighter fabrics and delicate pastel colours will be seen in this trend for the new season. Generous pussy bows in a contrasting colour add flare to the high-collared white shirts. Designer collections include Alexander McQueen and Chloe. 70s Sensation: Designers can’t get enough of this trend and it’s here to stay for the spring. Key pieces are high waists, suede coords, light denim and floral prints. Pair with shaggy fur in pastel hues for a bohemian touch. Popular with Sienna Miller, Alexa Chung and Olivia Palermo; as seen at Versace, Burberry and Coach.

fashion. She has been part of features for many leading publications in the industry. Find style inspiration from her daily edited “shop the style list feature”, which includes the most coveted styles of the season.

www.heartsheelsandhandbags. blogspot.ie Rosie Connolly is a 24-year-old living and working in Dublin. Her first break into fashion came through winning a reality competition on TV3’s Ireland AM. Five years on, and she has worked on a range of media, magazine and TV projects. Rosie had her first baby, Harry, in 2015. Since then, she adds posts for mums and mums-to-be.

www.thunderandthreads. com Leanne Woodfull is a 22-year-old Dublinbased student, freelance writer and sometimestylist. She studies visual culture at NCAD. Her style is a pick and mix of high end, high street and independent brands which she showcases on her blog and social site. www.stylemecurvy. net Louise O’Reilly is an international plus-size model. Style Me Curvy is all about fashion diversity and positive body image. Having travelled the world, Louise has developed a fashion-forward style and shares her looks with her readers.

Gazette

22 Gazette 18 February 2016

OUT&ABOUT

TRAVEL

iceland: direct flights now going for €79 each way

A mesmerising country waiting to be explored  ian begley

There could not be a better time for Irish people travelling to Iceland as direct flights to Reykjavik are now going for as little as €79 each way. In June, 2015, Icelandic airline WOW started providing lost-cost direct flights from Dublin to Reykjavik, saving hundreds of euros for those wishing to explore the vast and beautiful country. Known as the “Land of Fire and Ice”, there are not many places in the world which have such contrasting dramatic landscapes as Iceland. This truly amazing destination is home to the fantastic city of Reykjavik, as well as numerous natural wonders and

stunning scenery. From the Blue Lagoon to spouting geysers, glaciers and fjords, it is a mesmerizing country just waiting to be explored. Iceland is one of few places in the world where it is possible to see the amazing Aurora Borealis or Northern Lights - a natural light phenomenon.

Unusual The unusual and versatile landscape of Iceland with its black volcanic beaches, waterfalls, bird cliffs, volcanoes, glaciers, hot springs and more, will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime. One of the most must do activities in Iceland is to explore the inside of a real volcano. This tour will let you travel down

inside the Prihnjukagigur volcano through an opening just wide enough for the window cleaner’s pulley lift you will be on to get in and out of. The Inside the Volcano Iceland day tour from €256pp is a great mix of nature, history and adventure, featuring a hike across the moonscape of the ragged lava field, and great views across Reykjavik. From €59pp you can take a dip in the world’s favourite volcanic spa, the Blue Lagoon, and soak all your stresses away. The Blue Lagoon water contains a unique cocktail of natural mineral ingredients which help you relax and unwind while the Blue Lagoon white silica mud gently cleanses and exfoliates

your skin. For €146, you can visit a real-life glacier and experience raw nature in a winter wonderland of ice sculptures, ridges and deep crevasses. You’ll take off eastwards out of Reykjavik where you’ll see the unforgettable Eyjafjallajokull glacier after about two hours on the road. You may remember that name because of the 2010 eruption which shut down air travel in all of Europe. To make the most out of your trip to Iceland, the Northern Lights tour is without a doubt a must-do. This tour, from €49pp will take you away from the city lights so that you can observe this astonishing atmospheric effect

Some of the stunning scenery in Iceland (above top) the Blue Lagoon where you can soak all your stresses away, and the picturesque city of Reykjavik (above)

without distraction. The ghostly light shadows of high energy solar rays as they pound the upper atmosphere sound pretty scary; but from down here they look like peace, happiness, won-

der and wellbeing rolled into one. Visit wowair.ie for more information on your lowcost trip to Iceland. Irish travel companies Travel Department and Click and Go are also

providing holiday package deals to Iceland in some of the country’s top hotels. For more information, visit www.traveldepartment.ie or www.clickandgo.ie.

First luxury sleeper train to take to the tracks in August 2016  ian begley

Ireland’s first luxury sleeper train will take to the tracks in August 2016, and already there has been a lot of interest in the 2, 4 and 6 night itineraries from Dublin through the Republic and Northern Ireland. The first images of Belmond Grand Hibernian’s carriages have now been released as the transformation into 20 luxury ensuite cabins, two dining cars and an observation car gets under way in Belfast, Northern Ireland. A team of 40 multi-skilled craftsmen at specialist outfitters Mivan Marine Ltd, w i l l u n d e r t a ke 35 , 0 0 0 hours of work at the worldclass production facility in

County Antrim preparing the train for its inaugural journey from Dublin on August 9, 2016. Belmond has a legacy of operating some of the world’s most famous trains including the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express and Belmond Royal Scotsman; building the company’s seventh luxury train to exacting standards requires cutting edge technology mixed with traditional skills. “We chose to work with Mivan not only for their extensive experience but they have also shared our passion and vision for Belmond Grand Hibernian from the outset - it is very important to Belmond that we work with local experts and craftsman to create a

truly authentic train that reflects the spirit of the countries through which it will travel,” said Gary Franklin, managing director of Belmond Trains and Cruises. Belmond purchased the 10 carriages and locomotive from Irish Rail earlier this year and began transformation of the mark three carriages into Ireland’s first luxury sleeper train. The work started with the mechanical engineering and painting of the exterior midnight blue and silver livery at Brodie’s in Kilmarnock, Scotland. The carriages have been carefully transported back across the Irish Sea for this next stage in development. The interior design of the

10 carriages, by James Park Associates, reflects Dublin’s Georgian Architecture with inspiration taken from the flora and fauna of Irish landscape. All interior furnishings are supplied by local businesses including hand-

crafted stone counters in the observation car from a Dublin based company and wool blended carpets from Ulster. The designs all feature Belmond Grand Hibernian’s Celtic knot weaved throughout in colours

matching the tartan of the counties after which the carriages are named including sleeper car Waterford and dining car Sligo. For more information or to make a reservation visit Belmond.com/grandhibernian.

18 February 2016 Gazette 23

Gazette

24 Gazette 18 February 2016

OUT&ABOUT

CINEMA

ReelReviews

TRIPLE 9

An impossible heist (Cert 16, 116 mins) Triple 9 is the story of a group of criminals and corrupt cops, blackmailed by the Russian mafia, who try to pull off a dangerous heist so they can escape. While half of them try to take down a rookie cop in a 999, police code for “officer down”, to keep the rest of the force busy, the other half will steal the loot. Opens this weekend February 19.

GOOSEBUMPS Fun horror romp

(Cert PG, 103 mins) A teenager teams up with the daughter of young adult horror author R L Stine after the writer’s imaginary demons are set free on the town of Madison, Delaware. Goosebumps boasts more than enough of its spooky source material’s kid-friendly charm to make up for some slightly scattershot humor and a hurried pace.

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.

Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson, Will Ferrell, Penelope Cruz and Kristin Wiig in the all-star line-up for Zoolander 2

ZOOLANDER 2: DEREK AND HANSEL STRUT THEIR STUFF ONCE MORE

The beautiful people are back  AUDREY KANE

Ben Stiller returns both in front of and behind the camera for Zoolander 2, a comedy that finds the beloved model Derek Zoolander (Stiller) and his rival-turnedpartner Hansel (Owen Wilson) facing a threat to their continued success. Thrust back into the spotlight after living in seclusion for years, they are invited to a major fashion event in Rome. The estranged friends are surprised to see how much the business has changed. Even more shocking is their encounter with Valentina Valencia, a special agent who needs their help. Someone is killing famous pop stars, and it’s up to Derek and

Hansel to help save the world’s most beautiful people from a similar fate. Just before the celebrity dies, he takes a selfie, picks a good Instagram filter, and posts it on the internet. His face is scrunched in a familiar expression – Zoolander’s trademark, Blue Steel. Zoolander comes out of self-imposed exile. Now a widower, his son taken away from him – he resides in a cabin on a blizzardswept mountainside in Northern New Jersey. Hansel is needed too, and he dwells in the vast desert wasteland of the Uncharted Malibu Territories, a falconer in an impossibly pretzeled yoga pose atop a sand dune, his orgy of lovers

in a nearby tent home. He wears a golden mask over his cheek to hide a half-inch scar, which he considers a tragic disfigurement, because he’s a superficial twit. I really wanted to enjoy this movie as much as the first one but unfortunately Zoolander 2 has more celebrity cameos than laughs. Amidst subplots about Hansel’s paternity issues and Zoolander’s reunion with his longlost son, Derek junior (Cyrus Arnold), a chubby, smart boy holed up in a Roman orphanage who despises his father, Derek senior. In the first, and much funnier original Zoolander, we got a delightfully throwaway cameo from the late David Bowie;

now we suffer from umpteen famous faces eager to be in on the joke. Benedict Cumberbatch and Justin Bieber among them. Whilst the first film had a clear focus, Derek being brainwashed to kill the Malaysian Prime Minister, everything in the sequel is all over the place. At some points they’re looking for the assassins, sometimes they’re just trying to do fashion, sometimes they want to find Derek’s son, and all sorts of other bizarre stuff that made this a hugely messy film that fails to keep the audience engaged. So the outdated models are dispatched to Rome, where Alexanya Atoz (K risten Wiig, unrecognisable) rules the fashion world as a

Donatella Versace-like fashion empress whose pretentious diction is so comically clotted as to be unintelligible. Her latest protege, Don Atari (Kyle Mooney), is an anti-fashion hipster and sour little twerp whose idea of a fashion-show locale is a garbage dump. Another protege is a bald transgender supermodel (Benedict Cumberbatch) known as All. Alexanya’s only other tic is her bizarre taste in unwearable clothes. The movie’s humor relies heavily on the outlandish creations of the costume designer, Leesa Evans, to evoke the fashion world’s insane excesses. The tepid satire is undercut by cameo

appearances by fashion giants like Valentino, Marc Jacobs, Anna Wintour and Tommy Hilfiger. Because they are in on the joke, their very presence robs the movie of any remaining edge. While there are laughs to be had with the sequel alas not as many as the first one, maybe wait for this one to watch at home. For every laugh that Zoolander 2 elicits, there’s a pang that all this was funnier the first time around. There are some moments of brilliance, like the climactic scene featuring Will Ferrell reprising his role as Mugatu, which may be worth the ticket price alone. Verdict: 5/10

18 February 2016 Gazette 25

Gazette

FEATURE opinion: Focus Ireland wants the government to Create equality

Sister Stan focuses on the continued housing crisis As the election countdown continues the stark reality is that a record number of over 5,000 people are homeless. Shockingly one in every three people who are homeless is a child. Meanwhile, one in every 16 households is in need of a home as they are one of the over 100,000 households stuck on social housing waiting lists nationwide. Sadly the problem hits home in every county but the most people who are homeless and in need of housing are in our capital city. Focus Ireland is working hard to help families and people who are homeless and to prevent many others from becoming homeless in the first place. Our Family Team in Dublin helps one family a day to secure a home (in partnership with the Dublin Regional Housing Executive & Local Authorities) and escape the nightmare of homelessness. However, at the same time at least two more

families are still losing their homes and becoming homeless every day. More single people are also being forced into homelessness due to rising rents and poverty. --------------------------

‘Focus Ireland wants to say loud and clear that the housing crisis impacts on people across the country and in all walks of life’

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

Sister Stan

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

How can we stand by while families and their children who are homeless are forced to live in one hotel room for months at a time? There is nowhere safe for the children to play, do their homework or for the family to even cook a meal. This is causing terrible damage for these families and also the many single people

who are homeless stuck in hostels or some even sleeping on the streets. Focus Ireland is always working hard to put forward realistic policy solutions to help prevent and end homelessness. We do this work through our 70 lifeline services in Dublin and around the country. We also have a proud track record of changing many government p o l i c i e s a c r o s s ke y areas. This work may be mostly behind the scenes but it has played a vital role over the years in bringing forward many important policies in the area of supported housing and also in the provision of aftercare for young people leaving State Care at the age of 18. Our work in recent months we hope will play a part in developing the policy responses of the next Government on these impor tant issues. We have lobbied all key parties and independents and submitted a very comprehensive policy document which not only outlines

Sister Stanislaus Kennedy

our demands but even breaks this down to the specific actions required by each Minister in the next Government to end homelessness. We are now calling on voters to add their support to our work. We have drafted an Election Demands document which highlights five key commitments we are asking ever y candidate to make to help the next Government end the crisis. Our campaign is calling on voters to email 5 key demands to all their local candidates and demand to know each

politicians position on the issues. These demands include calling for the next Government to deliver 40,000 social homes over its five-year term and to set a firm target date for ending long-term homelessness and rough sleeping. We are also calling for all candidates to make a commitment to end family homelessness and take action to support holding a referendum on the ‘right to a home’. I would ask people to please add your own voice to the campaign

at www.focusireland. ie/get-involved/takeaction Focus Ireland wants to say loud and clear to every candidate standing in this General Election that the housing crisis impacts on people across the country and in all walks of life. This is a terrible crisis but it’s vital to stress that there are solutions to these problems but they will only be delivered if the next elected Government knows that this is a national priority. Focus Ireland is calling on all voters to make sure they use the election cam-

paign to mark the cards of all their local candidates on this issue. I am asking you to please take action now and after the election to let the next Government know that you want to live in a more equal Ireland. As we approach the centenary of 1916 Rising and Proclamation it would be a proud legacy for our nation to be able to stand over the promise that we really do cherish all children equally.  sr stan Founder, Focus Ireland

26 blanch Gazette 18 February 2016

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PLANNING NOTICE Fingal County Council

We, Piotr Kaczmarek and Maria Kozarova are applying for full planning permission for removal of existing porch lean-to roof and the construction of a single storey brick faced porch extension with pitched roof over to the front of existing dwelling, all with associated site works at 27 Riverwood Green, Castleknock, Dublin 15. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (20Euros) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of this application 26173

18 February 2016 blanch gazette 27

blanchCLASSIFIEDS Tell us your NEWS LEGAL & PLANNING APPLICATION

ANNOUNCEMENT We are delighted to announce that we can now accept your legal and planning applications for Dublin City Council

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PLANNING NOTICE dublin city council

Permission sought for a two storey extension to the side to include a gable end wall replacing the current hipped roof profile and 3 no. velux roof-lights to the front roof. Also a single storey extension to the rear and a detached single storey domestic use garage to the rear garden with vehicular access onto the Old Navan Road at 1 Phoenix Gardens, Castleknock, Dublin 15. For Claire Doherty. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

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28 gazette 18 February 2016

SPORT

FastSport Soccer sisters camps launch 2016 dates: THE 2016 SportsWorld FAI Soccer Sisters Easter Camps were launched at the FAI national training centre with participation numbers set to reach new heights. The hugely popular programme will be spread into even more communities around the country this year due to 30 more venues being added to the calendar. A fantastic way for girls aged between seven to 12 years to get involved with football in a fun and friendly environment, the Soccer Sisters Easter Camps also helps to continue the excellent work of developing women’s football. Republic of Ireland women’s senior head coach Sue Ronan helped to launch this year’s programme, along with internationals Aine O’Gorman and Rianna Jarrett. Last year saw a 40% increase in participation.

hockey: belfield side make big move up to second in women’s league

UCD run up double victories  stephen findlater sport@dublingazette.com

UCD made the big move in the women’s EY Hockey League as their double victory over the weekend saw them jump into second place ahead of Railway Union and Pegasus. They got the best of Railway 3-2 on Saturday afternoon thanks to goals from Emily Beatty, Deirdre Duke and Elaine Carey before running up a 3-1 win over UCC on Sunday in Cork. It comes at an important time in the race for the guaranteed EY Champions Trophy playoff places which will be handed to the top three finishers.

Miles Warren’s side had fallen behind on Saturday against Railway early on but bounced back to lead 3-1 and they duly held off a concerted late fightback from their Sandymount rivals. The win against UCC was more routine. Hermes dropped points for the first time in the campaign in a stunning 3-3 draw with Pegasus at Queen’s, their perfect run falling in game 13. Hannah Grieve’s deflected shot earned the Ulster side a share of the spoils after Hermes had led three times in a fantastically open, attacking tie. The draw does not ove r l y d a m a g e t h e B o o t e r s t ow n cl u b ’s chances of landing the

title due to results elsewhere. They now need four points from their remaining five games to land the title. Cork Harlequins produced a brilliant 16 minute spell that yielded four goals to see them get the better of Pembroke 5-1, leap-frogging their opponents in the process. Karen Bateman started the run in the 26th minute before Miriam Crowley, Yvonne O’Byrne and Cliodhna Sargent’s penalty stroke extended the gap to 4-0 and game over with 18 minutes left to set up the win. On the men’s side, T h r e e R o c k R ove r s returned to the top four thanks to a 1-0 win over

UCD’s Deidre Duke gets away from Railway Union’s Zara Delany. Picture: Adrian Boehm

Railway Union as their counter-attack game proved the difference. Harry Morris deflected home the winner in the third quarter from turnover ball for the game’s only goal. It moves them back above Tallaght side Glenanne who were beaten 3-2 by bottomplaced Cookstown in Tallaght. Indeed, the Co Tyrone side’s only points this season have come against the Glens,

winning 5-1 in the first series of fixtures before Christmas. Greg Allen and Shannon Boucher exchanged early goals while Ryan Millar and Joe Brennan did likewise before Andrew McWhirter carried the day for Cookstown. T h e r e s u l t m ove s Cookstown level with Annadale on points but they are behind on goal difference in the battle to avoid automatic rel-

egation. Monkstown, meanwhile, were comfortable winners over Pembroke for a third time this season, this time running up a 3-0 scoreline at Serpentine Avenue. Peter Caruth and Geoff Cole made it 2-0 by the 11th minute while Lee Cole closed out the tie with a corner push. It strengthens their place in the EY Champions Trophy play-off places.

Gonzaga’s Saturn racers through qualifying round  sport@dublingazette.com

Entrants in last year’s Schools Technology Challenge in the RDS

SAT U R N R AC I N G f r o m Gonzaga College, Ranelagh, are thrilled to see their hard work in research and preparation for their project plan has paid off as they have successfully advanced passed the qualifying stage of the F1 in Schools Technology Challenge, powered in Ireland by Irish Computer Society. The competition has a long history in Ireland and is now in its ninth year. Team manager Callan Egan describes the hard work and dedication their team

has put in so far to get to this stage in the competition: “We all hope the large amount of work we’ve put in will pay off. This team gives 100% every week and we all work for each other, for the team.” The Qualifying Stage is composed of a five-page plan on how Saturn Racing intended to create their 25cm balsa wood Formula One car by showing their research, proposed budgets, designs and so on. In order to encourage creativity and originality amongst the entrants, extra points were given

to teams who submitted one additional item along side their mandatory five-page plan. This item could be anything from an additional page in the plan, a PowerPoint slide or a video. Marketing and communications manager of Saturn Racing, Joost Peeters, was very proud of her team and also gives key details on their team’s originality piece and explains why it sets their team apart from their competitors in the challenge. “We have the knowledge of cars and wisdom in marketing. Each member brings something

different yet when it all comes together, you get six TY students pushing the limits in this competition.” Every team that has entered this challenge are looking forward to the Regional finals and watching the event and Dublin team Saturn Racing looks forward to participating in the regional finals on February 25 and 26 in the Citywest Hotel, Saggart, Co. Dublin. The F1 in Schools National Finals will be taken place during the Tech Week showcase in the RDS on April 28.

18 February 2016 gazette 29

Gazette

Igiehon pursuing the American hoops dream Former Moyle Park College student has made the switch to the US with a very clear goal of landing a place in the NBA, using his time at Lawrence Woodmere College as a crucial stepping stone  adam doherty sport@dublingazette.com

CLONDALK IN has bred a lot of sporting talent over the years. The local gyms and school halls have produced boxers who have performed at Olympic and World Championship level. The pitches and streets have developed a number of international footballers, some of whom are around the current Republic of Ireland setup. There’s been dozens more success stories in different sporting fields but a genuine basketball star is something Dublin 22 can yet associate it’s name too. That may change in the near future, however, as

former Moyle Park student Aidan Harris Igiehon progresses through the development ranks stateside in search of his dream of reaching the NBA. Now 17, Igiehon is a scholar of the Lawrence Woodmere Academy, a “premier college preparatory school for students, families and educators who embrace quality education with shared priorities, passions and commitment in an environment that values wisdom and nurtures personal, community and global responsibility.” GazetteSport caught up with Igiehon, firstly asking what he misses about home, unsurprisingly there are a couple of things he prefers in New

York. “The main things I miss about Ireland are my friends and my mother,” he said. “I do not miss the weather at all though! But it was extremely tough to leave my friends and community. “The thing that I liked about Moyle Park is that it was close to home. My school here in New York is two hours away from home. “But I feel that leaving Ireland when I was young was the best choice for me. I left Ireland in pursuit of my dream of becoming a professional. “When I moved to America, the one major lifestyle change was the amount of work I was forced to put in. “As the competition got

Aidan Harris Igiehon has been signed up by the Lawrence Woodmere Academy

tougher it made me realise I have to change physically and mentally. “It was easy to adapt to the climate change, but America is much bigger than Ireland and the lifestyle is faster, that was tough to get used to.” In his time at Moyle Park, the talented power forward, standing at an

Sporting talent runs strong in the Igiehon genes it would seem as Aidan’s older brother Brandon is also stateside, although playing soccer. Having initially crossed the Atlantic to play at Brooklyn Italian’s soccer club, Brandon Igiehon is now at Manhattan soccer club.

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‘Because I am 6’9’’, I don’t get treated like a freshman at all; people look up to me’ Aidan Harris Igiehon

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imposing 6’9’’, was part of a team that reached an All-Ireland final and was a popular figure around the school. But what is it like being a freshman from another country in New York? “To be an athlete in Lawrence Woodmere Academy is fun,” he says. “But I don’t get treated like a freshman at all. Because I am 6’ 9’’, people look up to me and see me as a leader. “I settled in pretty quickly as the school has very much a family orientated atmosphere. I made friends really quickly.” On the court, Igiehon has impressed too, with Jeff Weiss, Head Basketball Coach at LWA recently praising the youngster by saying “he has things to learn but is blessed with height and talent”.

The MSC is seen as a strong feeder club for players looking to take the step into MLS. While the MLS may be the goal for Brandon, the NBA is the endzone in Aidan’s eyes. “My main goal is to become one of the greats that played this game; I see myself in the NBA in five years,” he told us confidently. On a final note on his old school, this Igiehon spoke of a possible return one day. “I know if I visited they would welcome me back with open arms, I am very proud to be Irish.” Should his hardwork keep-up and he continues to impress on the courts stateside, we may not have to wait too long until Clondalkin can claim an LA Laker, Miami Heat or probably more fitting, a Boston Celtic.

FastSport

St Vincent’s U-16s fulfil favourite’s tag ST VINCENT’S girls’ water polo team from Glasnevin took gold as they won the Irish Under-16 cup final in Lisburn while their boys’ team took bronze. Going into the girls’ final, St Vincent’s were clear favourites and had not been beaten in any match during the season. They came into this competition as Leinster cup winners and were also winning the Leinster and national leagues this season as well as national league Division 2. On finals weekend, they duly emerged from group A with wins over North Dublin as well as Tribes A and Tribes B with a cumulative total of 34 goals scored to five conceded. In the semi-final, they beat Clontarf 6-0, setting up a final against Tribes A. It proved an exciting match in the first quarter as St Vincent’s scored first from Sadbh Kindlon. Tribes A replied with two goals from Maedhbh Hannon and went ahead 2-1. The response was quick from St Vincent’s in the second quarter, scoring a goal by Aoife Hennessy and a third from Niamh O’ Meara. Tribes A replied with a goal from Sophie Moran but St Vincent’s scored again by Kindlon and another goal by Molly Reilly eked out a 5-3 lead at half time. In the second half, Kindlon put further daylight between the teams only for Moran to reel in the gap once more. Tribes replied with another goal from Ciara Pagden but St Vincent’s closed off the game with goal from Ciara Kindlon to win by 7-5. On the boys’ side, St Vincent’s won their group winning against North Dublin and Lisburn and beat Cathal Brugha from Belfast in the quarter-final. They subsequently fell to Corrib in the semi-final, leaving to play Grads from Belfast for bronze, a result they duly landed on an 11-6 scoreline. St Vincent’s Water Polo team train in the National Aquatic Centre on Mondays, and Wednesdays from 8.15 pm to 10.15pm for senior men and women.

Gazette

30 BLANCH gazette 18 February 2016

SPORT

FastSport

soccer: castleknock enjoying returns at all age groups

Corduff carry 2015 form into new karate season THE CORDUFF Karate Club kicked off the year by continuing its winning streak at the United Shotokan Karate of Ireland 2016 Youth Championships. It was the first championships for 2016 and it certainly was a great way to kick-start the competition season. Although seen as a modest team of six representing the club, the haul of silverware received on the day was mighty. After a tough day of competing, the team took gold in four of the categories and also two bronze medals. There was some fantastic performances from upcoming juniors Lauren Royle who took the junior girls title for 2016, she’s certainly following in her sister Leeanne’s footsteps. Leeanne also did particularly well on the day taking home the senior girls’ title. Brothers Amine and Yacine Ghanem also did extremely well, taking home the junior and senior boys titles after some clinical performances. Brother and sister duo Donnacadh and Blatnaid Murray, meanwhile, eventually took home a bronze medal each. Unfortunately for them, they were pitted against their Corduff team mates in the semi finals and were narrowly beaten, just missing out on a place in the finals. It follows an excellent 2015 for the team from the newly awarded Dan grades (black belts) to the many trophies and medals won both nationally and internationally. Speaking about the club’s success, David Royle said: “We were very proud of our guys continuing on where we left off last year. “As we now enters our 25th year since its inception, the Corduff Karate Club are very proud to be one of the longest running clubs in the Blanchardstown area. “We’ve produced many champions over the years but we are always looking for our next batch of champions! Our doors are always open to new and old members.” Class times are on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 5pm. For more information, please phone 085 8191877.

Castleknock Celtic’s young stars enjoying their children’s football academy

Celtic rise like a Phoenix sport@dublingazette.com

CASTLEKNOCK Celtic’s Under-14 Major team got the better of local rivals from Ashtown, Phoenix FC, on the Scribblestown all-weather pitch with Celtic coming out comfortable 6-1 winners. After some indifferent performances, Celtic were keen to re-ignite their season in this local derby against Phoenix and it was they who took the front foot in the game with a 1-0 lead going into half time. T he breakthrough came midway through the half when Antonio Neto cut in from the left before putting a through

ball to Kian Ryan who, from an acute angle, rifled the ball home. A number of good saves by the Phoenix goalkeeper kept the scoreline at 1-0. At the start of the second half, it was Phoenix taking the game to Celtic. But, with the game delicately poised, Celtic doubled their advantage 15 minutes into the half. Ciaran Collins went on a mazy run before delivering an inch perfect pass to Ryan who again showed a predator’s finish to bag a brace and make it 2-0 to the visitors. The goal deflated Phoenix greatly. Up to this

be champions Mountview club win big at Stuttgart TKD event champions Taekwondo from Mountview, Blanchardstown took home a range of medals from this year’s children’s World Taekwondo Championships in Stuttgart. Jake Moran took first place gold in the male 30kg; Jasmin Hernon won bronze in the female’s 28kg, while Sharron Larkin made first place gold in the female 26kg. Leah Duncan finished fourth place, moving up two weight categories due to her fighter pulling out.

point, they had remained resolute in keeping their opponents at bay. However, the goal allowed Celtic to press home their advantage further as Ryan turned provider when Leigh Reilly added a third. Minutes later Hughes won the ball and played a quick one-two before placing the ball beyond the keeper. Ryan duly completed his hat-trick with another right foot shot having been released by the hard working Evan Nolan. W i t h 10 m i n u t e s remaining, Donatus Nweke went on a run inside the box before thundering a shot from

the narrowest of angles that smashed the post and off the unfortunate Phoenix defender into the net. Phoenix scored a deserved consolation goal when a corner from the right was turned in to give their supporters something to cheer about with the full-time score reading 6-1 to Celtic who will now look to leave their recent poor form behind as they look to mount a promotion challenge. Elsewhere, Castleknock Celtic’s children’s football academy is back in action this week. They meet each Saturday morning in Porterstown

Park at 10am. New members are always welcome to this great experience for children aged four- to seven-years-old. All of the club’s coaches on duty at the sessions have the necessary coaching qualifications where the children will learn all the basic skills of football. Existing skills will also be developed as the children are prepared for league football at Under8s level. There is a keen focus on developing children’s sporting skills in line with the FAI Player Development Plan, which is currently being rolled out by the football authorities.

18 February 2016 BLANCH gazette 31

Gazette

mighty quinn

Castleknock’s Bronagh aids Trinity success

Club Noticeboard st brigid’s

castleknock’s Bronagh Quinn was

part of the Trinity College side that won the Father Meachair third level final last weekend as they got the better of Athlone IT 1-10 to 0-8. It concluded a fine campaign that saw St Mary’s, Belfast beaten 0-12 to 1-2 in the semi-final of the competition a week earlier to set up the final showdown.

THE St Brigid’s nursery runs every

winner. The jackpot remains at €15,000

Saturday in Russell Park from 9.30am

for this week’s draw in The Vineyard.

to 11am. We welcome all four- to sev-

The reserve jackpot rises to €12,800.

en-year-olds in the Castleknock and

Thank you to our lotto team and to all

Blanchardstown area and new mem-

our lotto supporters.

bers and families are always welcome.

The Kube is coming to St Brigid’s on

For further information and queries

Saturday, April 2. For further infor-

contact David on 085 8340169.

mation or to sign up to represent your

St Brigids GAA club member registration is now open for the 2016 sea-

Picture: Donall Farmer/Inpho

ladies football: healy and trant aid big victory

team, email stbrigidskube@gmail. com.

son. The deadline for registrations is

Our minor footballers get the 2016

March 31. All memberships must be

leagues underway this Sunday at

registered and finalised by this date.

11am. Our minor A team are home to

Full details and online payment are

Na Fianna in Russell Park. Our minor

available on the club website.

B team are away to Naomh Olaf. Best

Last week’s lotto numbers were 13, 15, 22 and 26. There was no jackpot

of luck to both teams. All support welcome.

castleknock CONGRATULATIONS to our own Bron-

them down to the green container

agh Quinn who was on the Trinity team

in Somerton for the club’s Cash for

who won the Father Meachair Cup.

Clobber initiative. It’s a great way to

Our nursery, thanks to Tiger Child-

clear the clutter and get some cash

care, takes place on Saturday on the

for the club; 2016 club calendars are

all-weather in Somerton beside the

still available and every wall should

Castleknock Hotel, starting at 10am.

have one.

We look forward to welcoming all our

Again, we are asking all members

young nursery boys and girls for some

and friends to please support these

sport agus spraoi, fun and encourage-

initiatives. Best wishes to all our man-

ment.

agement teams and players as games

New nursery members always very welcome; just turn up and introduce yourself to one of the many friendly Noelle Healy in action against Monaghan’s Cora Courtney. Picture: Oliver McVeigh/Sportsfile

Jackies sweep aside Monaghan challenge

NFL division one Monaghan 0-6 Dublin 5-18  james hendicott sport@dublingazette.com

ST BRIGID’s stars Noelle Healy and Ciara Trant turned out for Dublin ladies last weekend, with Healy playing an impressive role in midfield, grabbing a point, while Trant had a quiet afternoon in goal as the Dubs blew away Monaghan. The Valentine’s Day victory could easily have been more substantial, with Dublin’s eventual 5-18 to 0-6 victory reflective of a side very much

going for points rather than goals in the second half, after their early flurry had utterly blown away the Ulster side. Carla Rowe - scoring two goals having been switched to half forward from the wing for the game - Amy Ring, Niamh McEvoy and Nicole Owens did the goal damage in the first period, with the girls in blue fast out of the blocks, netting their first three goals inside ten minutes. Owens set things underway, but the Dubs attacking play was little short of a parade in a fiery first half display,

with fluid moves against a rabbit in the headlights Monaghan defence seeing 4-6 on the board for the visiting All-Ireland finalists before Monaghan notched their first point of the game. Things were to be marginally more even from then on, with Rowe’s second on 21 minutes rounding off the goals in a clinical display, one that perhaps benefitted from Dublin manager Gregory McGonigle’s previous experience with the Monaghan side. Come the second half, McGonigle took the chance to blood his

bench in preparation for the visit of Cork to Parnell Park on the 28th of this month, with the All-Ireland champions - despite having yet to pick up a victory in the early days of their title defense - sure to provide a sterner test. T he 27-point victory marks an important return to form in NFL Division 1, with the ladies having been turned over by Mayo against the odds in their previous outing. It showcases the girls in blue’s power in a league in which nobody seems in real control.

mentors. Now that spring is in the air, it’s time to clear out old clothes etc and drop

commence. Remember, new players at all levels and age groups welcome. Can all sections of the club who wish to have items mentioned in the weekly club notes please e-mail them to info@ castleknock.net on Sunday evenings.

Naomh Peregrine WELL done to the senior team who

Barry Halpin on 087 6183868. New play-

opened their season with a win against

ers are always welcome by all teams;

Ballymun Kickhams in the Loving Cup.

please check the club website, www.

Best wishes to the adult hurlers in

cnp.ie, for training times and mentors

their Corn Ceitin Cup game away to

contact details if interested.

Fingallians Sunday at 10.30am.

Bingo takes place in the club every

All the best to the minor footballers

Wednesday at 8.30pm. Please return

in their league game away to Parnell’s

all sold or unsold national draw tickets

on Sunday at 11am.

to the club this week.

The academy is back training for

Membership fees are now due for

2016; all new boys and girls are wel-

2016; contact Michelle Kavanagh to

come to train in a fun, safe healthy

make payment; students must have

environment. St Peregrine’s offer

their student ID card if paying for stu-

the best value for money in Dublin 15

dent membership.

as registration for the year is €40 and subs only €2 per week. The nursery section caters for

A new fundraising committee has been set up, if interested in helping out, please contact Paul Harte.

four to five-year-olds (2012 - 2011);

The club shop has a new line of St

they train on Thursdays from 5-6pm

Peregrine’s sportswear in stock. For a

and Saturday from 9.30-10.30am.

brochure or order form, please email

The academy section caters for six

Dermot at shop.stperegrine@gmail.

to seven-year-olds (2010-2009); they

com.

train Thursdays from 5-6pm and Saturdays 10.30-11.30am. For any further information, contact Niall Burns on 086 6073190 or

Shop opening hours are Monday from 6-7 pm, Wednesday from 6.307.30pm and Saturday from 10.30am to 12pm.

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

february 18-24, 2016

hoop dreams: five-star: Healy captains Jackies to massive win Aidan’s Dubliner makes a big step over Monaghan in the National Football League P31 toward NBA target P29

Corduff’s Yassine latest to sign terms  nathan kelly

sport@dublingazette.com

CORDUFF FC’s place among the schoolboy heavyweights in Dublin football was further solidified with the announcement this week that Yassine En Neyah has officially signed for Nottingham Forest. En Neyah is one of the most exciting prospects to emerge from Corduff Park in recent years and becomes the third player from the Duff to move across the Irish Sea in the past two years. The talented youngster had been plying his trade with

Bohemians in recent months but will swap the red and black of the Gypsies for the red and white of Forest this summer. En Neyah was one of six players who left Corduff last summer to join Bohs’ League of Ireland Under-17 side. It was part of a partnership between the Dalymount side and the NDSL which saw the league’s most promising talent join the League of Ireland club’s youth team. The Blanch club issued a statement once the Forest deal was all signed and sealed. “The club is delighted with the deal we secured but even more

delighted for Yassine and his family. Make no mistake, this is a serious player who plays with a smile on his face. “A special word of acknowledgement to his mentors at Corduff FC, Davey Travers, J o h n ny B o o t h m a n , C l i ve Keogh, Alan Sweeney and his last manager at Corduff, Steve Morley. “This is the third player in two years that has signed a contract with an English club, after learning their trade at Corduff football club.” A hugely popular figure around Corduff Park, En Neyah was also quick to offer

his thanks to Councillor David McGuinness (Ind), who provided sponsorship for his Corduff team over the years. The confirmation of the deal comes as little surprise given En Neyah’s ability to perform on the big stage in such a young career so far. International caps in the past year have been met with international goals for the Republic of Ireland underage sides. He was also named NDSL Player of the Tournament at last summer’s prestigious Milk Cup tournament in Northern Ireland.

Corduff’s Yassine En Neyah with another of the club’s top products Johnny Poame