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INSIDE: Kurt Russell continues his recent top form

in genre-melding Western, Bone Tomahawk Page 22

Prawn fest : Get set for one shelluva food extravaganza in the seaside village of Howth. Page 13

Gift ideas: Make your Mother’s Day with our great range of presents Pages 18-19

sport Soccer:

St Mochta’s continue push for LSL title Page 30

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INSIDE: The big winners and the losers from Election 2016 ...

See Pages 8-11

March 3 - 9, 2016

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L-R from top left: Shane Ross (Ind), Eoin O Broin (SF), Alan Shatter (FG), Dr James Reilly (FG), Joan Burton (Lab), Lucinda Creighton (Ren), Alex White (Lab), Joan Collins (PBP) and Sean Haughey (FF)

2 BLANCH Gazette 3 March 2016

St Dominic’s College | project sparks a huge interest in media

Students make a new pal  Grace Leahy

Sarah Donoghue and Nadine McAllister

Clara Cushen and Orla Martin

Rachel Greene, Orla McCarney and Eva O’Sullivan

Miriam al-Mukhtar and Sinead Reynolds

IT may be nearly 8,000 km away, but the beautiful country of Nepal has taken centre stage for young journalists at St Dominic’s College, Cabra. For the last eight weeks Transition Year students and their teacher Therese King have been piloting a project devised by Poetry Ireland and Concern Worldwide. After researching the country and sharpening their journalistic skills, the young reporters have written newspaper articles, presented TV pieces to camera and interviewed the President of the Nepal Ireland Society for radio.

In their own words Zsara Uzell and Sophie Dunne: This project has sparked a huge interest in journalism for us. It allowed us to see exactly how an article comes together and the work that goes into it. Seeing our finished articles brought great satisfaction. Sinead Reynolds and Miriam al-Mukhtar: We now realise the assets that Nepal has. It is a country of culture and beauty. We would like to meet more people from Nepal, to hear and truly understand their experiences. We learned the hard work and skill of writing that goes into journalism. Krissie Hoban: I have learned that journalism is a hard and ongoing job that reveals heartbreaking stories. I want to visit Nepal and see for myself how it has changed since the earthquake. I would like to travel to other countries, doing journalism and discovering the country for myself. Sophie McNamee: Since starting this project I have grown very sympathetic to the people

who lost so much in the earthquake last April. I’ve learned about Nepal’s spectacular culture and some religious customs. Clara Cushen and Orla Martin: It was a great opportunity to interview Mr Deepesh Man Shakya, President of the Nepal Ireland Society. He gave great insight into the country. We have learned lots of skills and had an amazing opportunity to do a piece to camera. Nadine McAllister, Sarah Donoghue and Kim Dooner: We learned about some of the threats that people in Nepal face such as earthquakes and leprosy in the south east. We feel more aware of the issues there. We would like to visit and experience the different culture. Eva O’Sullivan, Orla McCarney and Rachel Greene: Beginning this project we knew very little about Nepal. Now we have a much greater appreciation and admiration for the country and its people. We most enjoyed interviewing Mr Deepesh Man Shakya. He told us stories and customs that only a Nepali person would know. Megan Carey: There is a lot more culture and liveliness in Nepal that I hadn’t realised when hearing about the earthquakes. I have learned that journalism is very punchy and all about getting the information across. Grace Leahy: I feel more informed about Nepal as I didn’t know a lot beforehand. I am interested to visit as I want to see the mountains. I understand how difficult it is to report something and make it seem realistic and not learned off by heart and I appreciate the hard work news reporters do.

3 March 2016 BLANCH Gazette 3

business | diverse range of events at week-long initiative for fingal

health

Jump to support youth

Enterprise week call for entrepreneurs  emma nolan

ENTEPRENEURS from Fingal are being sought to make their dream a reality with this year’s local enterprise week. This year’s event runs from March 7 to 13, and will have hundreds of events taking place with the aim of stimulating job creation and also to encourage those with a business idea to pursue their dream in north county Dublin. Fingal Local Enterprise Office (LEO) is one of 31 LEOs across Ireland that have announced a series of initiatives aimed at stimulating business activity locally. Starting on March 7, events will be taking place in Balbriggan, Swords and

Blanchardstown, and will include opportunities to pitch business ideas to experts, attend procurement workshops, business advice clinics, start your own business boot camps, and trading online seminars. Student enterprise awards will take place on the Tuesday, along with the Fingal Enterprising Women event to coincide with International Women’s Day. The week will conclude with the Fingal Enterprise awards, which will show the business journeys of the six finalists: Farhad Khandanian from Ballycoolin, Paul Canavan from Skerries, Dr Irene McGrath from Skerries, Nicole Dunne from Baldoyle, Kevin Egan from

Blanchardstown and Darren Farrell from Finglas. Oisin Geoghegan, head of enterprise in Fingal, welcomed the initiative. He said: “There are plenty of business opportunities out there, but you have to go out and find them. We want to help small businesses to identify opportunities for growth. “Equally importantly, anyone with a viable plan for a new business needs to be encouraged to pursue their dream. The new local enterprise week initiative is a brilliant platform for us to stimulate job creation locally and throughout the country.” Most events are free, but a nominal fee applies to some. For further information, see www. localenterprise.ie/fingal.

an arresting display

Westmanstown Conference Centre hosted Garda Strictly Come Dancing recently. It was a fundraiser for the Garda Westmenstown Rugby and GAA clubs. As part of the event a third of the funds where going to the LauraLynn and Zoe Cyran Foundations. Zoe was born 16 weeks premature, she has had acute kidney failure, difficulty swallowing, chronic lung disease and been diagnosed with Diplegic Cerebral Palsy. Money raised by this event will help with the care of Zoe.

On Saturday, April 16, Blanchardstown local Meliha Gogic will be joining All-Ireland Champion Ashling Thompson to take on a challenge to support the mental health of young people across Ireland. Gogic, along with a group of fellow heroes, will abseil off the top of Croke Park’s Hogan Stand to raise awareness and money for Headstrong’s work supporting the mental health. She said: “I’ve been involved with Headstrong for nearly five years now, most recently being a volunteer on the Youth Advisory Panel for Jigsaw D15. When I found out about this charity abseil, I jumped at the chance.” To sponsor Gogic, visit www.giveeverydayhero. com.

4 BLANCH Gazette 3 March 2016

courts | took money to fund a gambling addiction

Worker stole more than €7,000 A worker at a chequecashing shop stole more than €7,000 from his employer to fund a gambling addiction, a court heard. Padraic Quinn (34) has been told by a judge to pay full compensation before sentencing and warned he is facing jail. Quinn pleaded guilty to more than 20 theft and fraud offences. The offences includ-

ed theft of money and fraudulent use of cheques, and happened at his workplace in Dublin as well as at Bank of Ireland, Ballsbridge in 2009 and 2010. The case had been before the courts since 2013 and Judge Patricia McNamara said the defendant had been given time to come up with compensation. The total loss was €7,786 and the accused

had €3,000 in compensation in court, his solicitor Tony Collier said. Quinn, of The Courty a r d , D i s we l l s t ow n Road, Clonsilla, had dealt with his addiction and he was now “doing well in all aspects of his life”. “The fact that he has been able to put together such a significant amount of money is an indication of that,” Mr Collier said.

He explained that Quinn had taken up another work contract and was in a stable relationship. Judge McNamara noted the amount of time the case had been before the court and said Quinn had paid no other compensation until now. The accused was in a “much better position now than he had been” to pay the victim back,

Mr Collier said. “He wants to put his best foot forward and complete the compensation,” he said. “It will affect sentencing if 100% of compensation is paid as opposed to less than 50%,” Judge McNamara said. She granted a short adjournment “to see how much he has got together ... because he is certainly facing a custodial sentence”.

Irish Aid Awards

Imagining the world of 2030 Primary school pupils from Dublin West are being encouraged to enter the 2016 Our World Irish Aid Awards and to imagine what our world might look like in 2030. The theme of the 2016 Awards, One World, One Future, asks pupils to imagine how their world might look in 2030, and enables them to learn about the new United

Nations Global Goals for Sustainable Development, which seek to address the root causes of poverty worldwide. Registration for the 2016 Awards programme is now open to students in third to sixth class and the deadline for entries is Friday, March 11. For more information on how to take part visit: www.ourworldirishaidawards.ie

special needs | new scheme is being piloted in a number of schools

Fears for teaching resources

 ian begley Parents of children with special needs from Dublin 15 are fearful that

existing special educational resources will be undermined following new allocation rules by the Department of Edu-

cation. The new allocation rules are set out in a document produced by the National Council

for Special Education (NCSE) - Delivery for Students with Special Educational Needs. This is currently being piloted in a number of schools across the country. However, there is major uncertainty as to when the Government will determine whether to implement the new system or not. Cllr Roderic O’Gorman (GP) believes that in many schools in Dublin 15, the new scheme could result in the undermining of existing one-on-one or small class teaching that is provided to pupils with moderate special educational needs. He has since written to the Minister for Education seeking a guarantee that the rollout of the new procedures will not lead to current services being undermined. His call followed a meeting with parent and teacher representatives from Castleknock Educate Together National School, Castleknock National School and St Brigid’s National School. He said: “The current system for the allocation of teaching resources for children with special needs is not working, as it is heavily dependent

on parents having to pay privately to obtain a diagnosis of special educational need. “While this needs to change, the new model for allocation of special education teachers, which is based on broad categories such as the schools ‘socio-demographic catchment area’ and its standardised test results, will undermine the resources already a l l o c a t e d i n m a ny schools in Dublin 15.” In response, a spokesperson from the Department of Education said that The National Council for Special Education has found that the current model of allocating resources may be potentially inequitable. The reasons outlined include: “That it is partly

based on diagnosis, but access to professionals is not equally available to all; Some children are being diagnosed as having a special educational need for resource allocation purposes rather than for clinical reasons. “This gives rise to delays and additional costs; the current model doesn’t recognise the spectrum of ability within each disability category; and the general allocation model through which high incidence needs and learning support resources are allocated is based on enrolment and not need. “Accordingly, fixed allocations are made for children who have varying degrees of need; the general allocation model through which high inci-

dence (less complex) needs and learning support resources are allocated is based on enrolment and not need. “To address these findings a pilot (involving 47 schools) is currently underway to assess a different model of allocation. “The feedback from the schools operating under the pilot has been positive. “The pilot provides that allocations would be based on a schools educational profile which would take account of a range of identification criteria. “In addition all schools would be provided with a fixed allocation to support inclusion in addition to its profiled allocation,” said the spokesperson.

3 March 2016 BLANCH Gazette 5

ongar | boy in critical condition after being hit by articulated truck

Call for roads to be made safer  Ian Begley

Concerned parents from Ongar are calling for measures to be implemented to make the roads a safer place for children walking to school, following the tragic incident where a five-year-old boy was hit by an articulated truck. The boy, who is in a critical condition, was walking with his mother and older sister to St Benedict’s National school when he was crushed by the large vehicle, which was making a delivery to a local supermarket. Emergency services

were alerted and members of the Garda Traffic Corps and paramedics rushed to the scene. He is being treated in Temple Street Hospital for injuries to his chest and lungs and is described as being in a critical but stable condition. The child’s mother and sister, who were also hit by the truck, we r e n o t s e r i o u s l y injured. Following this incident, parent-teacher associations from the area set up a meeting at St Benedict’s school, where approximately 40 concerned parents attended to discuss

what could be done to make the area where the boy was hit a safer place. Speaking to The Gazette, Deborah Colgan, head of St Benedict’s PTA said: “We came together basically to just put our heads together and tr y to come up with a solution and to see where we can move on from here. “It was a really constructive meeting and a lot of people from the area had a lot of good ideas. “The problem is that parts of Ongar have been taken in charge by the council, but not the specific area where

the boy was hit. That’s under the control of a management company.” A local parent, who also attended the meeting, said that it was an “accident waiting to happen”. She said: “We have to make a plan of action to make the roads safer for kids walking to school. It definitely was an accident waiting to happen and if things don’t change it’s probably going to happen again because there’s such a huge volume of people coming in and out of the carpark where the boy was hit. “That little boy is in

A five-year-old boy is being treated in Temple Street Hospital for injuries

my son’s class and I live in Ongar Village and have to walk through that carpark everyday to get my son to school. To be honest we’ve been ver y vocal and concerned about safety in the area, but now that

something like this has happened we have to make sure that it doesn’t happen again.” A council spokesperson commented on this incident, saying: “Fingal County Council is making every effort to

take this area in charge, including legal proceedings to sequester the bond to bring the estate to taking in charge standard. In the meantime the council is not in a position to carry out any works in the area.”

6 BLANCH Gazette 3 March 2016

courts | man was recognised by woman who lived in the area

Woman smashed a Yankee candle over robber’s head A woman broke a Yankee candle over the head of an acquaintance when he robbed a beauty salon as she was getting her nails done. Gerard Halpin (40) was jailed for six-anda-half years at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court for the robbery and for breaking into a house and telling the occupant not to scream or he’d kill her.

Halpin of Corduff Grove, Blanchardstown, Dublin, pleaded guilty to the burglary which occurred on December 19, 2013. He was convicted by a jury last week of the salon robbery and possession of a knife which occurred on December 23, 2014. The court heard that Halpin entered the beauty salon Urban Dolls in Corduff Shopping

Centre while wearing latex gloves and armed with a kitchen knife. He grabbed the owner Sarah White by the neck and put a knife to her back before walking her towards the till. Halpin was wearing a scarf over his face but a customer, Emma Kelly, recognised him. She lived in the area and had known Halpin all her life.

Halpin ordered Ms White to open the till but Ms Kelly closed it and said: “What the f**k are you at Gerard?” She told Ms White not to give him any money but Halpin raised the knife above his head and said “back off Emma”. Ms Kelly then picked up a Yankee candle from a display case and smashed it over Halpin’s head. Halpin fled with Ms Kelly close behind shouting his name. She followed him as he cycled to his father’s home a few hundred yards from the salon. Ms Kelly saw Halpin in the bedroom window changing his clothes. She knocked on the door and Halpin answered. He was sweating, breathing heavily and had changed his clothes. He claimed he had just been in the kitchen having a cup of tea.

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‘A victim impact report from Ms White stated she had lost a lot of business because of the raid as well as the €480 that was stolen. She said she was now thinking of closing down the salon.’

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Garda Adrian Kildea told prosecution counsel Pieter Le Vert BL that a garda search of the house found the gloves in an open safe in an upstairs bedroom. Halpin, who has 38 previous convictions and a long history of drug abuse, denied the robbery and claimed he had left the house just once that day to go to the pharmacy. A victim impact report from Ms White stated she had lost a lot of business because of the raid as well as the €480 that was stolen. She said she

was now thinking of closing down the salon. The court also heard evidence of a burglary by Halpin at Castlecurragh Heath, Mulhuddart. He later admitted to gardai that he went out “looking for gear” and rang the bell of a house three times before breaking in. A woman was in one of the bedrooms and tried to stop Halpin getting in. He forced his way in and grabbed her phone from her. He told her “don’t scream or I’ll kill you” before taking her laptop and leaving.

As he left he also met another resident and warned her to be quiet or he’d kill her. The women saw him getting into a BMW 3 Series car and driving away. He was caught shortly afterwards and admitted the burglary. He said he was “off my head” on tablets and got the wrong house. James Dw yer BL , defending, said Halpin had twins with his partner. He said he came from a severely dysfunctional family and his childhood home “was not a happy place”. Judge Sarah Berkeley imposed a three-year term for the burglary and five years for the robbery. Both sentences are to run consecutively as Halpin was on bail during the robbery. She suspended the final 18 months of the eight-year term.

At Dublin Circuit Criminal COurt, Gerard Halpin (40), of Corduff Grove, Blanchardstown, pleaded guilty to the burglary which occurred on December 19, 2013

3 March 2016 BLANCH Gazette 7

The report outlined that ecstasy has made a “comeback” in terms of popularity

report | young people have used Facebook to buy and sell drugs

Drugs use rises in Dublin 15 area  Ian Begley

There is an increase of drug use in the Dublin 15 area with some young people using Facebook to buy and sell drugs, according to a new report by the Blanchardstown Local Drug and Alcohol Task Force (BLDATF). The research which looked at dr ug and alcohol trends in Blanchardstown, identified the types of drugs used within the community, and identified new emerging trends at an early stage of development. According to the report, the most commonly used drug by treated people under the age of 18 include cannabis and alcohol, with ecstasy and solvents used to a lesser extent. The main problem drugs for treated adult users included: heroin, methadone, alcohol, cannabis, benzodiazepines and cocaine.

Cannabis, benzodiazepines and z-drugs, crack, cocaine, alcohol, lyrica (prescribed pain killer) and codeine based over the counter drugs was reported to be on an increase by treated drug users. For those who have not been treated for drug use, alcohol was reported as the most commonly used drug with binge drinking described as a common occurrence among both males and females under the age of 18. Cannabis was the second most commonly used drug for young people; cocaine powder, ecstasy and ketamine as the next most commonly used drugs, with benzodiazepines and z-drugs used to a lesser extent. The report also outlined that ecstasy has made a “comeback” in terms of popularity and Ketamine becoming increasingly popular over the last 12 months. Polydrug use was per-

ceived to be the norm, and predominately occurred at the weekend among young people aged 15 and over. The main method for obtaining drugs as mentioned in the study was through local dealers. The internet was also reported to be used and some young people used Facebook to buy and sell drugs. The normalisation of drug and alcohol use within some peer and family groups was also described as a relevant factor as to why young people use drugs, along with the “common perception” that drugs were widely used, risk free and socially acceptable. A number of physical health consequences of drug and alcohol use were outlined, which included alcohol related liver diseases, drugrelated overdoses and deaths. T he social consequences of problematic drug use reported

included homelessness, a lack of educational attainment, and a lack of rehabilitation and few options in the form of education and employment. Coordinator of the BLDATF, Jim Doherty said: “Decisions on how to spend the task force budget have to be made on the best available evidence of what the needs of the community are. “If this evidence isn’t already being gathered then the task force has to do this job itself. This is what we have done, using the best methods known and asking the community what the issues are. We also intend to keep on doing it on a regular basis, so that we are never out of touch with the community we serve.” This report is officially being launched on Tuesday, March 8, at 2.30pm in Mountview Youth and Community Centre. Members of the public are welcome to attend.

8 BLANCH Gazette 3 March 2016

election 2016 | Former minister, Tanaiste, upcoming Fianna Fail candidate

Fiery start to career for FF candidate It’s no secret that Fianna Fail’s Dublin West candidate Jack Chambers is opposed to repealing the 8th amendment, and it’s also no secret that Ruth Coppinger of the Anti-Austerity Alliance – People before Profit is completely for the repeal. So things really took off when the pair were joined on RTE postelection results. Chambers recently gave his views on an episode of Tonight with Vincent Browne where when asked about a referendum to appeal the 8th amendment he said: “I wouldn’t support that.” During the heated

d e b a t e o n S u n d ay Chambers said he is “pro-life”, Coppinger’s response to this was “we’re all pro-life”. Things took off on Twitter af ter this… One user said: “Jack Chambers, I’m in tears here. ‘Representing the youth of Ireland’ yet looking and s o u n d i n g l i ke Reeling in the Years. Classic.” One of Ruth Coppinger’s suppor ters on Facebook said: “Let the grownup women who want a grownup country rip him to shreds.” Whereas another Facebook

user said that “the only reason I voted for you (Chambers) was because you are prolife.” Coppinger stated that “women aren’t going to put up with Jack”. A fiery start to his Dail career to say the least!

Despite Fine Gael suffering heavy losses across the country, former minister for Health Leo Varadkar, topped the poll with 8,247 votes. Picture: Ronan O’Sullivan

the results | end of road for donnelly

Leo leads the way and tops the poll  Jodi Waters

From early on in Dublin West we could see that Leo Varadkar of Fine Gael would top the poll and re-gain his seat in the Dail leaving a battle for the remaining three seats. At 10:30am, 40% of the boxes were open and it was probable that Fianna Fail’s Jack Chambers would get the second seat. Joan Burton (LAB) and Ruth Coppinger of the AAA-PBP were neck and neck for the third seat with 15.4% of the vote, and following them closely with 14.4% was Sinn Fein’s Paul Donnelly. On arrival to the count centre in Phibblestow n, Chambers (FF) was hopeful that he would take the second seat saying: “Fianna Fail are back, it’s been a very positive day for us throughout the country.” Next to arrive to the

count centre was Sinn Fein’s Paul Donnelly, knowing that it was a tight vote, Donnelly insisted that he was in the race for the last seat. “Dublin West is a very competitive constituency but the hopes here are still high.” Also in high spirits on arrival was Ruth Coppinger who was hopeful that “we will keep this seat here as a voice for workers, for women and for action against the water charges”. After the first count, no candidate had reached the quota of 8,391. Topping the poll with 8,247 votes was Leo Varadkar. Second to him was Jack Chambers with 6,917 first preference votes. Not too far behind the Fianna Fail candidate was Ruth Coppinger with 6,520 votes. Joan Burton came in at 4th place with 6,445

first preference votes and “still in the mix”, Paul Donnelly had received 6,034 votes. Independent Dermot Casey received the fewest number of votes in this count with 225 and trailing closely behind him was Renua Ireland’s Jo O’Brien with 677 votes. Both candidates were eliminated from the second count. T he second count in Phibblestown saw Varadkar receive 81 transferrable votes still leaving him with the likelihood of receiving the first seat. Jack Chambers’ vote went up by 231 votes, Coppinger’s chances on taking the third seat here looked increasingly likely as the transfers gave her 106 extra votes. Bur ton’s transfers put her in line to take the fourth seat with her transferred votes putting her up by 63. Falling a little bit

behind was Paul Donnelly who only saw 39 of O’Brien’s and Casey’s transferrable votes. F i n a l l y, a f t e r t h e third count, we had our first seat filled and the former Minister for Health, Leo Varadkar of Fine Gael re-elected exceeding the quota by a few hundred. Clearly thrilled with his re-election, Varadkar spoke about the likelihood of Fianna Fail’s Jack Chambers taking the second seat. He said: “I don’t favour a Fine Gael Fianna Fail coalition. “I don’t think it’s a good idea for either par ty. I don’t tr ust them.” Speaking about Kenny’s leadership, the first seat winner said: “The leadership of Fine Gael is more than one person and Enda has done a phenomenal job as Taoiseach over the past five years.” With Chambers looking more and more

3 March 2016 BLANCH Gazette 9

and two left wing politicians battle for seats in tough constituency

Former Minister for Health, Leo Varadkar was re-elected, exceeding the quota by a few hundred

likely to take the second seat after the third count, it now seemed that Joan Burton would take the third seat and Coppinger the fourth. Donnelly, now on 6,093 votes, still had a positive attitude. Independent TJ Clare was eliminated. The fourth count here looked like Burton and Coppinger would re-gain their seats in the constituency and Chambers still looked extremely likely to be elected. Roderic O’Gorman (GP) and Independent David McGuiness were eliminated here leaving 5,503 votes to be transferred to the remaining four candidates. Newly re-elected Mary Lou McDonald (SF) arrived to the count centre just before the fifth and final count in support of her colleague Paul Donnelly. McDonald insisted that “it’s been a good day for us (SF)” and that the election results so far were “another milestone for Sinn Fein”. Mary Lou ensured us

that her growing party were “by no means finished. We’re not going away. We still have plenty more to do”. Tensions were rising in Phibblestown as the fifth and final count results were announced. Still, none of the four remaining candidates reached the quota, however, closest to it and the winner of the second seat was Ruth Coppinger. Not too far behind her was Fianna Fail’s Jack Chambers gaining the third seat. Lastly, in fourth position and regaining her seat in the Dail was Labour Leader Joan Burton. With all four seats filled, and 300 votes between himself and the fourth seat, it was the end of the road for Sinn Fein candidate Paul Donnelly who quickly left the centre with his family after the results were announced. A delighted Ruth Coppinger said that the result of this election was “a rejection by over 50% of the people of the traditional parties

of Fine Gael, Fianna Fail and Labour” she said: “We need a real left in the tradition of Connolly and Larkin to replace Labour.” Eager to celebrate her win she signed off with “here’s to more seats for us in the future”. Chambers, elected for the first time, was thrilled with the result and spoke about the potential Fine Gael Fianna Fail coalition saying “people want stability- what that is, I don’t know but something will have to be worked out”. Chambers, aged 25, thanked his supporters, his family and his team also speaking about the late Brian Lenihan and how he sparked his interest in politics said: “I’m going to be a voice for the younger generation” and reiterating that “Fianna Fail are back”. Burton was over the moon to be re-elected and thanked the people of Dublin West saying: “The people of Dublin West have put their trust in me once again.”

Ruth Coppinger (AAA-PBP) checks the numbers

Paul Donnelly (SF) and Roderic O’Gorman (GP) were both unsuccessful

Labour leader hangs on to seat After a very long day and after four counts in Dublin West, the former Tanaiste Joan Burton arrived in Phibblestown at around 9pm. The Labour Party leader walked into the counting hall with a grin

from ear-to-ear with the knowledge that she was actually in with a chance to regain her seat in the Dail. With her hands in the air, she stumbled through the masses of media that surrounded her to get

to the “Labour Camp” where she hugged her family and supporters. Refusing to talk to any media until after the count, we can only help but wonder why the Dublin West woman took so long to show up to the count centre.

10 BLANCH Gazette 3 March 2016

BLANCHGazettegallery | After the weeks of canvassing dublin

Counter Hannah Snell

Counters Deirdre Bushell and Tracey Frampton. Pictures: Ronan Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Sullivan

Ruth Coppinger of the Anti-Austerity Alliance

Alison Hayes

Kim Duffy takes a break from counting

Ashok and Miriam Varadkar

3 March 2016 BLANCH Gazette 11

west general election candidates learn their fate at the count centre

Waiting in the wings

Fine Gael councillor Ted Leddy

Jack Chambers (FF) with parents Frank and Barbara

Leo Varadkar (FG) awaits the count

Leia Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Mahony and Megan Oglesby

Kieran Dennison

Councillor Kieran Dennison

12 Gazette 3 March 2016

Gazettegallery

| Operation Transformation in the phoenix park

Runners Jim Kearns and Jackie Kearns

Ray Darcy with runners at the annual RTE Operation Transformation 5K. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Leaders Noeleen Lynam and Lucy Dillon

Aoife Hearne

Get physically active in a worthwhile way

Operation Transformation Leader Lucy Dillon with Meela Rodgers and Elly Rodgers

Dr Eddie Murphy, Dr Cira Kelly and Aoife Herane

her daughter Molly

3 March 2016 Gazette 13

asdfsdaf P27 cinema P22

food & drink P21

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

style P18

Pets a loving home for beautiful, brainy Bambi

Max Sisojeus from the Oar House Restaurant who will take part in the Dublin Bay Prawn Festival. Picture: Douglas O’Connor

Prawn Festival: one of Ireland’s largest food extravaganzas

Catch some fantastic food  Ian Begley

The countdown to Howth’s annual Dublin Bay Prawn Festival is now underway, taking place from March 18 to 20. Dublin Bay Prawn Festival, one of Ireland’s largest food festivals, is set in the beautiful seaside fishing village of Howth. With a huge range of restaurants, pubs, cafes and retailers offering a vast array of food, much of it produced on Howth’s doorstep, it’s no wonder Howth has become synonymous with great food. Now entering its sixth year, the Dublin Bay Prawn Festival has built up a huge reputation both at home and overseas, offering not only a fantastic food village but also highlights all

the cultural, historical and adventure activities that make Howth such a distinguished destination. Celebrating the famous Dublin Bay Prawn, Howth’s finest restaurants, bars and cafes will host a variety of amazing food experiences at the Harbour Festival Food Village serving the freshest, most delicious seafood, cooked every way imaginable, including a selection of special Dublin Bay Prawn dishes. The festive atmosphere will continue into the evening as Howth’s bars and restaurants will host a special fixed price festive menu and entertainment for all. And it’s not just the culinary offerings that make the festival so memorable, the Dublin Bay Prawn Festival is also famous for music and entertainment, fireworks, walks, talks and sea-

side antics. The festival has grown to showcase the huge diversity of history, culture and activities that are the fabric of this seaside village. This year, for instance, the festival stage will play host to a variety of musical and theatrical sessions, one such being an event called “And Patrick Came To Howth”, a one-act street theatre. For the young and young at heart, there will be powerboating and water sport demonstrations along the pier, the coast guard and RNLI will be on hand to talk about the very important work they do and the vintage funfair will give the thrill seekers a run for their money. The tented village plays host to various exhibitions including cookery

demos from local and celebrity chefs, fish filleting and net mending master classes from the fishmongers/fishermen; videos and storyboards outlining the history of Howth and its fishing traditions; and of course some shanties and storytelling along the way. Paul Reid, chief executive of Fingal County Council said: “We are delighted to be part of this event, it is not only an opportunity to showcase Howth and all that it has to offer in terms of food, stunning landscape and heritage but also provides us with the opportunity to become a programme partner of St Patrick’s Festival.” For more information visit www. dublinbayprawnfestival.ie, Twitter: @DublinBayPrawnF or follow www.facebook.com/dublinbayprawnfestival.

The Gazette Newspaper has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week is is Bambi, a five-yearold, female, German Shepherd cross. She is as beautiful as she is brainy and needs a home with a very, very secure garden as she has previously escaped over fences. Bambi can live with older children but prefers calm, quiet households as she has struggled in very busy homes in the past. She would make a great running pal and excel in training and even agility. If you think you could offer Bambi a loving home, please contact Dogs Trust on 01-879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www. dogstrust.ie.

Gazette

14 Gazette 3 March 2016

dublinlife

A Lust For Life: 5k/10k Phoenix Park Run

Unlimited benefits of boosting mental fitness

 ian begley ibegley@dublingazette.com

One of the fastest growing running events in Ireland is back for yet another year. The Vhi A Lust For Life 5k/10k Phoenix Park Run is taking place this year on Saturday, March 5. More than 4,000 runners are helping to spread the message to “Run Your Life” and pledged their

support to A Lust For Life and Niall Breslin, who is helping to indorse the event. A Lust For Life are currently preparing participants physically and mentally to either walk or run the course. Speaking about what running means to him, Niall Breslin said: “I am an ex-professional rugby player and Gaelic footballer so any type of run-

ning I did in the past was always fast sprints. “Long distance running is the complete opposite of what fast paced running entails. “It’s about conditioning your muscles to do everything slowly and aerobically. “For me, I always made excuses for not going for a run because I didn’t enjoy it, mainly because I didn’t understand the power of

it. “When I got into running I realised that it was not a physical thing for me at all, but a mental aspect. “W henever I ran, whether it was for an hour or only a half an hour, everything in the world just went out of my head. “All the thoughts about what drive people nuts and all the silly things that don’t really mean anything just gets flushed out of your brain. For me, it’s a form of meditation. “When I realised how powerful running was and how it made me feel I decided I wanted to get better at it,” he said.

President launches new expo LAST Thursday, February 25, President Michael D Higgins officially launched the GreenSchools Expo 2016 at the RDS. Green-Schools is an international environmental management education programme, environmental management system and award scheme that promotes and acknowledges longterm, whole-school action for the environment, and is operating in 58 countries around the world. Last year, 93% of schools in Ireland, the equivalent to 896,442 students and teachers, participated in the programme. The expo showcased exhibits across six themed zones by 23 exemplary Green-Schools. The 23 schools were chosen based on their innovative and inventive approaches to the GreenSchools programme.

Niall Breslin: “When I realised how powerful running was and how it made me feel I decided I wanted to get better at it.”

This year, the chosen charity partner for A Lust For Life is Aware. Aware provides support and information for people who experience depression or bipolar disorder and their concerned

loved ones. Information on Aware’s services and different aspects of depression (including depression in young people and supporting a loved one) is offered through the web-

site Aware.ie If you would like to raise sponsorship for the run/walk you can set up a page on www.justgiving. com or email fundraising@aware.ie for a sponsorship card.

Gazette

3 March 2016 Gazette 15

dublinlife

diary

Rise to the rock challenge Hard Rock, in partnership with ReverbNation, is turning up the volume for its sixthannual global music competition, Hard Rock Rising. On June 1, up-andcoming local ar tists and music acts will have a chance to rise to international stardom by performing in the world’s largest, one-day music showcase taking place at participating Hard Rock Cafes around the world. Musicians who are interested in participating can register online at HardRockR ising. com until March 11, for a chance to win $50,000, a professionally-produced music video, a Fender instruments prize pack and an all-expenses-paid trip to perform at Hard Rock Hotel Ibiza. Jeff Nolan, Hard Rock International’s resident music guru and memorabilia historian said: “Hard Rock Rising 2016 is a one-day, global celebration of local artists. We hope to raise awareness for these incredible, and too-often overlooked acts, while simultaneously providing exposure that helps them breakthrough to the next level of success.”

dedicate a daffodil in aid of cancer charity The Irish Cancer Society will plant the Garden of Hope for the seventh year, returning to the Iveagh Gardens in Dublin this Daffodil Day, on Friday, March 11. The Society together with Dell, its lead par tner on Daffodil Day, appeal for people around the country to dedicate a daffodil with a message of hope for

themselves or someone they love. Last year, 1,117 people in Dublin dedicated a flower in the garden. This year the society will receive dedications from all over Ireland and further afield and will plant its 20,000th message of hope. Funds raised on Daffodil Day by thousands of volunteers across Ireland go directly to fund the work of the Society across support, prevention, research and advocacy. It’s vital that Daffodil Day reaches its ambitious fundraising target of €3.5m in order to continue to provide and expand this service and others. Visit www.cancer.ie/ gardenofhope or CallSave 1850 60 60 60 to dedicate a f lower or make a donation.

Ireland’s largest talent-spotting event on the way The International Literature Festival Dublin, in conjunction with T he Inkwell Group and Writing.ie, is calling on aspiring authors to enter Date With An Agent, Ireland’s largest talent-spotting event.

Aspiring authors Seventy-five aspiring authors will be selected from submissions received in an open call, and will have the chance to pitch their work to five leading literary agents keen to sign new talent. On the day, the 75 preselected writers will have the chance to meet privately with an agent to pitch their work and receive valued professional feedback and advice, as well as participate in the conference. To be in with a chance

of being one of the lucky 75 chosen for a Date With An Agent, writers are asked to submit the first 1,500 words of their work (fiction or non-fiction) in hard copy with a 1,000 word synopsis and 500 word author biography. The closing date for submissions is midnight on Friday, March 18. For further information visit www.ilfdublin. com.

Girl guides put on uniforms to promote guiding T ho u s a nds o f school pupils across the country turned up for class recently wearing their Irish Girl Guide uniforms. School principals gave permission for the girls to wear their Irish Girl Guides’ (IGG) uniforms to mark A-wearness Day – an annual event that gives girls the opportunity to tell their friends about their involvement in Guiding.

Challenges Membership of IGG gives girls from age five to 30 the chance to take part in a wide range of activities and challenges while making new friends, growing in confidence and gaining teamwork, leadership and other essential life-skills This year’s theme is “Connect” and the girls have been taking part in games, activities and ceremonies that have helped them celebrate the meaningful connections that make for better lives. Irish Girl Guides welcomes new members from age five plus and volunteer leaders from age 18 plus. To find out more, see www. irishgirlguides.ie or telephone 01-6683898.

Irish Girl Guides celebrate the meaningful connections that make for better lives

Rod’s ready to pull out all the stops Rod Stewart is adding additional Dublin and Belfast dates to the From Gasoline Alley to Another Country Hits 2016 arena tour that will feature his biggest hits from 1970 to 2016. Demand for Rod Stewart’s live shows are stronger than ever following the recent release of musical legend’s 29th critically acclaimed platinum selling album Another Country in October 2015. The acclaimed performer will play no shortage of chart-topping tracks, including: You Wear It Well, Maggie May, Da Ya Think I’m Sexy, Baby Jane, The First Cut is the Deepest, I Don’t Want To Talk About It, Tonight’s The Night, The Killing of Georgie and Sailing. Commenting, Stewart said: “These are some of my favourite buildings in my favourite cities. I give you fair warning – fasten your seat belts. I’m pulling out all the stops!” Rod Stewart will now play The SSE Arena Belfast on November 14-15 and 3Arena Dublin on November 18-19. Book online www.ticketmaster.ie

16 Gazette 3 March 2016

3 March 2016 Gazette 17

Price is just the beginning

D DOWN PRICES DRILLE ½

125 ½110

36 ½27

105

Mac Allister 600W hammer drill

OF COLOUR ADD A SPLASH

142

129

DeWalt 18V XR combi drill

Makita 18V li-ion combi drill

Includes 1 x 1.3Ah Li-ion battery

Includes 2 x 1.3Ah batteries

114

127

Bosch all-rounder multi tool

Bosch 550W SDS rotary hammer drill

PMF190E

Available in matt or silk €5.60 per litre

182

149

29 ½25

Electric convector heater

2000W Double level

Loft insulation 100mm 8.3 sq.m coverage

E WHEN IT’S GON E! N O IT’S G

Dulux standard coloured emulsion, 2.5L

Pure brilliant white €2.90 per litre Also available in soft sheen or silk

44.98

€28 each. €11.20 per litre Available in matt or soft sheen

18.98

Mira Elite ST pumped electric shower, 9.8kw

White & FKURPH À QLVK

Dulux gloss or undercoat, 2.5L

5 colours available €3.50 per litre

† 199 each

€6 per litre

LESS REFRESH FOR ½

2 € 10

5 € 18

Bord na Mona kiln dried logs

Bord na Mona briquettes

€6 each

€4.50 each

FOR

3 FOR € 24 Chipboard loft panels, pack of 3 L1220 x W325 x D18mm €10 each

129

100

L3000 x W600 x D38mm

Includes insulated trap door

Midnight granite effect laminate worktop

Fabienne full pedestal basin

½ Also available in...

Ebony granite

Valencia satin

Triton T90Z pumped electric shower, 8.5kw

.75

Cooke & Lewis Tonica toilet seat

Suitable for ceiling heights up to 2.8m

FOR

Abru timber complete loft access kit

.85

Dulux matt emulsion, 10L

Dulux Everyday colours, 10L

2kW

Scheppach 254mm sliding mitre saw

2 FOR € 36

ME COSY O H R U O Y P E E K ½

28*

Crown standard coloured emulsion, 5L

Includes 2 batteries ½

45.95

143

134

Fabienne rectangular close coupled toilet

Astracast utility 1 bowl stainless steel sink & drainer

Come on in and unleash the B&Q in you Liffey Valley | Swords | Tallaght | Naas | Galway | Limerick | Cork | Athlone Freephone 1800 818 950 or visit diy.com/diy/ireland for your nearest store. Liffey Valley opening hours Mon-Fri 7am-9pm, Sat 7am-8pm, Sun 10am-7pm. Swords Mon-Tues 8am-8pm Wed-Fri 8am-9pm, Sat 8am-7pm, Sun 10am-7pm. All other stores Mon-Fri 8am-8pm, Sat 8am-7pm, Sun 10am-7pm. Excluded from any other promotion or discount card. *Excludes mid sheen. † Customer quotas apply.

White & FKURPH À QLVK

OUT&ABOUT Weir gilded and Son neckla s Ti S ce €1 ento 99

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18 Gazette 3 March 2016

ur de Gallet Fle Roger & alm 200ml yb Figuier bod Lancome Genifique gift set €73

Crabtree & Evelyn Verbena and lavender body lotion 250ml (Kildare Village and selected pharmacies) €22

Www.magee1866.com Grey tweed bag €500

Pandora Sterling silver mother heart charm €39

T R E S E M M E h ave turned the traditional hair care routine on its head with their new Beauty-Full Volume range, which maximises volume by applying conditioner before shampoo. The experts at Tresemme have created an innovative “reverse system” on their constant quest to help women achieve everyday volume without depending on blowdrys. Tresemme discovered that many volume seekers shy away from using conditioning products, as they can weigh the hair down. The first step – Beauty-Full Volume pre-wash conditioner – contains fibre-polishing actives designed to remain on the hair after the condi-

tioner is washed away, locking in smoothness. Tresemme BeautyFull Volume shampoo follows to gently cleanse hair while removing excess weight left by the intensive conditioner. The result is premium softness, as well as body and bounce for hair that no longer weighs you down. The volume revolution continues with Tresemme Beauty-Full Volume Hair Maximiser and Tresemme BeautyFull Volume Mousse, which contains patented Fleximax Volumiser technology: soft, flexible bonds that move fluidly with the hair, allowing newly-volumised style to stay put all day without falling flat. Tresemme BeautyFull Volume is available from Dunnes Stores and selected pharmacies.

M&S Marc de Champagne truffles 145g €9

 emma nolan

Willow & Clo Cluster ruby earring €179

Turn to Tresemme for a new range to treat your locks

Www.magee1866.com Light purple scarf €45

Tresemme’s new Beauty-Full Volume range

3 March 2016 Gazette 19

Willow & Clo Cluster ruby earring €179

Juv i with Cocoa p o gold and d baja pe g re e n on ndant yx € 95

Gazette

STYLE

Willow & Clo Tiny pyrite drops €50

Butlers Chocolates

Flower box €7

Have you remembered

Mother’s Day?  emma nolan

Aldi Large Mot

her’s Day card

THE day when mums get to kick back and unashamedly indulge in being spoiled by their loved ones is almost upon us. Whether your mum loves a candle and a scarf, chocolates or bling, make sure she opens something she’ll really appreciate this Mother’s Day. Brand-new Irish jewellery boutique,Willow & Clo, in Powerscourt Townhouse Centre, has a beautiful array of intricately designed pieces, such as the drop cluster ruby earrings, and you can’t go wrong with the classic Mother’s Day choice, Pandora; this sparkling love knot

€1.49

Aldi Tea For On

Butlers Chocolates Spring tapered box €5

Crabtree & Evelyn Verbena and lavender body lotion 250ml (Kildare Village and selected pharmacies) €22

e teapot €5.49

set is a timeless gift for any occasion. Of course, beauty and skincare products are always a popular gift choice for mothers, so make sure she’s truly pampered with the Genifique range from Lancome, and the replenishing Fleur de Figuier body balm from Roger and Gallet. And, of course, there’s always the ubiquitous gift of a box of chocolates! That’s where a box of Butlers Chocolate Spring collection come in – an excellent accompaniment to Aldi’s Tea for One teapot for breakfast in bed. Whatever you look for, have fun spoiling your mum – after all, your mammy deserves it!

Lancome Genifique gift set €73

Gazette

20 Gazette 3 March 2016

OUT&ABOUT

fast

TRAVEL NEWS

TRAVEL

overnight stays: luxurious hotels and resorts in ireland

The FMVA Vintage Motors festival takes place on Let your mother become the Lady of the Manor at Mount Juliet Estate, County Kilkenny

March 12 and 13

A St Patrick’s Day with a difference Avoid the crowds this St Patrick’s Day and jet off to Malta for a fabulous seven-day break. Visiting the magical island of Malta this spring-time will allow you to take part in all the outdoor activities that might be too hot to take part in during the summer months. Mercury Direct are offering seven nights from March 10 in the lovely Sunflower Hotel, Qawra, for €284.05pp. Alternatively you can stay at the Windsor Hotel, Silma, for €298.58pp. Both prices include flights, accommodation, taxes and transfers. Budget Travel have seven nights in The Radisson Blu Resort and Spa, Golden Sands for €584pp sharing, flying out on March 15. A cheaper alternative is a seven-night stay in the four-star Kennedy Nova Hotel, Gzira for €376pp sharing. Prices are based on two sharing, room only basis and include transfers. Concorde Travel have deals from €425pp sharing for seven nights in

the three-star St Georges Park & La Vallette Apartments, St Julians, based on one bedroom, four sharing. Alternatively you can stay at the three-star Bayview Hotel, Sliema, (B&B, standard room, two sharing) for €499pp. A St Patrick’s Day parade takes place every year from City Gate in Valletta. The spectacular parade is a must-see for anyone in the area on St Patricks Day. The Dubliner’ pub, Malta’s one and only Irish bar is a great spot to toast St Patrick. Easter activities include life-size statues depicting the stages of the cross on the streets of Valletta on Good Friday. Easter morning you can witness the tradition of children carrying their Easter pastry ‘figolla’ to be blessed by the statue of Jesus Christ. The FMVA Vintage Motors festival also takes place in Mgarr and Gozo March 12 and 13. More information and details of events can be found at www. visitmalta.com.

Say thank you with a Mother’s Day getaway  ian begley Make Mother’s Day extra special this year and say thank you to your mammy by taking her to one of the many lu xurious overnight stays in Ireland’s most sought after hotels and resorts. Trade the hustle and bustle for a tranquil world of serenity with an overnight stay at Fota Island Resort. Slip away and let the unwinding begin as you choose between a relaxing harmony facial or full body massage. Spend the evening savouring a sumptuous meal in Fota restaurant for two before retiring to the bar for a night cap or head straight off to bed and rise bright and early to make the most of the full Irish breakfast served fresh the following morning. T he Mother ’s Day Package at Fota Island

Resort is available until Sunday, March 30, from €358 for two people sharing. To book, call Fota Island Resort on 021 488 3700 or visit www.fotaisland.ie Indulge in pure luxury this Mother’s day at the Shelbourne Hotel. Treat your mother to an overnight stay in the five-star hotel in a room with a view to impress. An unforgettable night with chocolate c o v e r e d s t r a w b e rries waiting for you on arrival. Slip away to relax before dinner in the top class spa and use the facilities such as the sauna or steam room or maybe a swim or quick work out in the state-ofthe-art gymnasium. T he Mother ’s Day package at the Shelbourne is available from €349 per room valid until March 15. To book call The Shelbourne on 01-6634500.

Whisk your mother away this March 15 for a relaxing countryside break at Farnham Estate. Stay in one of their cosy guest rooms where yourself and your mum can spend some quality time together and enjoy afternoon tea by the fire in the drawing room. This package includes the overnight stay, your buffet breakfast, afternoon tea and unlimited access to the spa facilities at Farnham Estate Golf Resort & Spa. To book call 049-4377700 or email info.farnham@ radissonblu.com. Treat your mum to the gift of a well-deserved day out at Dunboyne Castle Hotel & Spa, County Meath. Spend a glorious day relaxing in the hydrotherapy pool and thermal spa along with a gorgeous range of blissful treatments. Begin with a mini facial and scalp massage, followed by a back, neck

and shoulder massage and choose a mini manicure or pedicure to finish. The Mum’s the Word package is available from €89 per person, combine with an overnight stay and breakfast with sumptuous threec o u r s e s e t e ve n i n g meal in the award winning restaurant, The Ivy, from €159 for two people sharing. To purchase a voucher or to book call 01 801 3500 or email sales@dunboynecastlehotel.com. With Ireland’s Blue Book, spoil your precious mother this Mother’s Day and book a night away of luxury and utter pampering for both of you at Marlfield House, County Wexford. This offer, from €153 per person, includes one night bed and full Irish breakfast in one of our luxurious bedrooms, delicious tea

and scones in front of the fire in the drawing room and library as well as our seasonal three-course supper in the Duck Restaurant. Why not treat mum to a special overnight break and let her become the Lady of the Manor at Mount Juliet Estate, County Kilkenny. T his stay includes overnight stay in Mount Juliet House and breakfast the following morning, Champagne Afternoon Tea at your leisure once during the stay, a complimentary late checkout of 2pm and a 15% discount off all Spa Treatments at the Treatment Suites. This offer from €99 per person sharing is valid until March 16. To book, visit www. irelandsbluebook.com or call Mount Juliet on 353 (0) 56 777 3000. To book: www.irelandsbluebook.com

3 March 2016 Gazette 21

San Lorenzo’s

New York-style Italian

South Great George’s Street

Brunch Tacos consist of jerk chicken with avocado salsa, chorizo, red pepper mayo and lettuce

The Picky Eater  Shane Rigney

Food Vlogger

Brunch is big business in Dublin with all the trendy spots vying for a slice of the young and cool’s disposable dosh. Coming out punching with an oft heard “best brunch in town” is San Lorenzo’s on George’s Street. A few mates and I headed in last Saturday for a birthday bite. The kitchen closes at three for lunch but due to the water protest on Dame Street we were a little delayed. Arriving to join the ontimers who had ordered for us at about ten past, the staff seemed to have given up the ghost for the day. I can understand this being in the business, when at the end of a busy shift on a dismally grey and bleak Saturday you don’t want to see another pleading face.

However, the grub was ordered and on the way . After a few reminders, the cocktails arrived and thankfully one hell of a margarita and a few more reminders later, the water glasses arrived. But the place was busy so i can understand the delay. Mellowed out and warming up from the arctic 5km run we had endured in aid of operation transformation a few hours earlier, I was looking forward to some good sustenance. Brunch is one of those celebratory treats that only happens every once in a while for most of us and seriously starving I was dying for one of “the best in town”. This self-proclaimed “brunch of champions” was more “brunch of runner up”, I’m afraid. Because of the aforementioned delays everything had been ordered for the table.

C r a b c a ke s w i t h asparagus and hollandaise had nice crab and lots of it but the crunch on the outside had gone soft, the crab needed more seasoning and the accompanying poached eggs were hard, a mortal mistake at brunch. The Brunch Tacos, which consist of jerk chicken with avocado salsa, chorizo, red pepper mayo and lettuce were not as crispy as i would like. The jerk spice was there but also needed more seasoning and the typical coriander and lime garnishes needed a little bit of something to add that tart savouriness. The Poached Eggs on Avocado Toast were far

fresher and more oozingly moreish and the avocado was tasty with a nice basil pesto drizzled over. Desserts of Nutella Cheesecake and Chocolate Pot were excellent though and the cocktails are super and very reasonable prices of around €10 to 14 per brunch item are fair. To end on a positive I will say I’ve had a few gorgeous dinners in San Lorenzo so clearly the kitchen is up to the job but there are inconsistencies. San Lorenzo’s is a cool New York-style Italian and the atmosphere certainly lives up to the description with good tunes and a buzzing crowd.

Conclusion Despite some inconsistencies in the food quality, San Lorenzo’s (at South Great George’s Street, Dublin 2, tel: +353 (1) 478 9383) is a great, lively weekend hangout with very reasonable prices.

Cocktails are super and very reasonable priced

Gazette

FOOD&DRINK

Gazette

22 Gazette 3 March 2016

OUT&ABOUT

CINEMA

ReelReviews

sinking feeling An impossible heist

(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.

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.

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.

In the Old West, a sheriff (Kurt Russell), his deputy (Richard Jenkins), a gunslinger (Matthew Fox), and a cowboy (Patrick Wilson) embark on a mission to rescue three people from a savage group of cave dwellers.

Bone Tomahawk: Writer and director S Craig Zahler creates something unique

Soaked to the bone in quality Kurt Russell is enjoying a bit of a revival after several quiet years out of the limelight, and Bone Tomahawk (Cert 18, 132 mins), the genremelding Western that hits screens this week may just be a new highlight in the veteran’s long career. Last seen in Tarantino’s The Hateful Eight at the start of the year, Russell brings along the same grizzled charm and stupendous facial hair to this much less star-studded affair. And while Bone Tomahawk, which was filmed on a shoestring in just three weeks, may lack the budget of some of Russell’s more recent escapades, it comes out none the poorer for it thanks to its rather unique blend of ingredients. Bone Tomahawk

 Dave phillips

looks like an homage to the old West – in the aptly named little town of Bright Hope, lawman Sherriff Hunt (Kurt Russell) seems like the only source of stability amid the buffoons, spittoons, and saloons that make up the staple cinematic frontier. The usual balance of power is upset when an up-to-no-good stranger (David Arquette) enters town, unwittingly bringing some big trouble with him. When the stranger, along with the doctor’s

assistant (Lili Simmons) are abducted in the middle of the night, Sheriff Hunt must form a posse in an attempt to track them down. On the trail with Hunt is the decrepit town backup deputy, Chicory (Richard Jenkins); the stalwart husband of the missing woman, O’Dwyer (Patrick Wilson); and the well-spoken and even better dressed gentleman of dubious moral standing, Brooder (Matthew Fox). It may sound a little like old hat, but sitting snugly just beneath the frontier aesthetics, there are other, very different, levels of film going on – while Bone Tomahawk looks like a Western, it plays out in part like a horror film. Headed toward the

dreaded “Valley of the Starving Men” the group are constantly on the lookout for the nearmythical tribe of cannibals that are rumoured to reside there. As their journey drives them deeper into a hostile desert, the relationship between the motley crew begins to crack. But if you are expecting some traditional horror fare with a Western veneer, then you’re in for a surprise. Or at least, a long wait until the finale. At 132 minutes, Bone Tomahawk is slow going, but every moment is well spent. It is in the long setup and the ponderous desert journey that the film’s most valuable facet is revealed. Superbly written dialogue, nailed by on the

spot actors means that a considerable bulk of Bone Tomahawk plays out almost like an indie comedy. Reminiscent of 2015’s Slow West (which in turn felt similar to the Coen’s 2010 version of True Grit), this is a wildly selfaware West, where whimsical quasi-philosophical conversations are chewed and spluttered out in terse mountain-man terms. Amongst an array of very solid and enjoyable performances, Richard Jenkins in particular is sublime, and his subtler comic interactions with both Russell and Fox make the film worthy of an immediate rewatch. That the whole project is the brainchild of one relatively unknow n polymath makes Bone Tomahawk even more

endearing. S Craig Zahler writes and directs, as well as contributes to a brooding musical score. It is easy to see how the film could have ended up as a much more cut and dry 90-minute actionhorror, but Zahler’s patience pays off and he manages to create something quite special. It goes without saying that Bone Tomahawk won’t be for everybody – wide ranging as they are, horrors, westerns, and indie films do tend to have their unique audiences. But here is an incredibly potent blend, that is wonderfully crafted and a lot of fun to watch. Bone Tomahawk feels like an instant cult-classic.

Verdict: 9/10

3 March 2016 Gazette 23

24 Gazette 3 March 2016

Gazette

HEALTH OUT&ABOUT Successful career path leads to heart of business Weight Watchers: CEO Martina Sinclair on her busy, exciting work

Being three stone overweight, and joining Weight Watchers over twenty-five years ago, was the accidental start of a long, happy, and successful career path, which has recently seen Martina Sinclair appointed CEO of Weight Watchers Ireland. “My experience as a

member was so positive, and I loved the whole Weight Watchers ethos so much, that I applied to be a class leader,” Martina explains. Even as Mar tina’s roles within the organisation developed, she remains a leader and still takes meetings in Dublin City Centre, as well as occasionally

attending other classes. “My role evolved over 25 years, from member to class leader, to trainer where I recruited and trained new and current leaders, to training manager, followed by operations manager, then general manager, and now, in 2016, Weight Watchers Ireland CEO”.

Martina loves being in the heart of the business, and seeing the results Weight Watchers delivers. “I meet people every week in class who know they can trust Weight Watchers to help them make sustainable and healthier food and lifestyle choices, to achieve their weight loss goals, and, as a result, live happier and healthier lives,” she maintains. We i g h t Wa t c h e r s meetings are nationwide, and the business is suppor ted from a head office in Swords, County Dublin.

Successful At the heart of Weight Wa t c h e r s ’ s u c c e s s are the class leaders, themselves successful members, and passionate experts in healthy weight management. You can’t work in the industry without being interested in people, and how they manage their health and fitness goals, Martina Sinclair insists. “I keep an eye on what’s happening in the world of health and weight loss. Maintaining my ow n weight means making smart choices during the week, to enjoy a bit more flexibility at the weekends. “And if I want to lose a few pounds, or reignite my own weight loss motivation, I go to a Weight Watchers class and enjoy the experience of being a member,” she admits. Exercise is an impor-

Martina Sinclair says joinging Weight Watchers over twenty-five years ago, was the accidental start of a long, happy, and successful career

tant part of Martina’s life, and is a cornerstone of the Weight Watchers approach. “I love how it makes me feel, even though I don’t always feel like doing it. “It’s hugely important, not just for maintaining a healthy weight, but for helping to manage stress. “You’ll find me in the gym around 6.30am, so that I can get it done before I’m properly awake!” Martina says she has

absolutely no regrets about the years she spent being overweight, claiming it was part of what brought her to where she is today, and to a role she thoroughly enjoys. “I have always had great support at home, e s p e c i a l l y f r o m my husband, who has been with me literally through thick and thin, or maybe slimmer, fitter, healthier, and happier.” Weight Watchers Ireland is part of a global operation, and recent-

ly introduced its new healthy and holistic approach to managing weight loss, “Smar tPoints”. “Weight Watchers is a fantastic organisation. We’ve been around for over 50 years, always innovating as nutritional science changes, and always learning more about human behaviour! “Right now, it’s a very busy, exciting place to be”, the new CEO of Weight Watchers Ireland says.

3 March 2016 Gazette 25

Gazette

GAMING finance: how free-to-play gaming has also lead to great wealth

How to make a billion: create free games ...

ONCE again, games, tech and business watchers had the same target in their sights recently, with the widely reported news that another games figure has just become a billionaire, joining an elite club of passionate gamers who have been elevated to business leaders. Catchily nicknamed by some as ‘The Billionaire from Belarus’, 39-year-old Viktor Kislyi has just been valued as having a net worth of one billion dollars, thanks to his company, Wargaming.net, which is valued at $1.5bn. As the company’s chief executive, Kislyi has spent about 20 years following his passion for gaming, technology and history, with his early steps on an old computer in the family’s apartment in Minsk leading to him creating a company with his brother that, today, has more than 100 million users. Wargaming has been

 shane dillon sdillon@dublingazette.com

behind a number of niche titles, but latterly has enjoyed significant global success with World of Tanks. This multi-platform title is free to download and play, but has impressive in-built – and entirely optional – revenue streams, with Kislyi’s business model being one of the best examples of how to successfully monetise free content. Indeed, Wargaming is estimated to have had revenue of $590m in 2015 – not bad going for a company with a leading title that’s primarily free, and that many users never spend a penny, cent or a dime on (although

many gamers pay a little here, a little there to buy better equipment, useful supplies, and so on). On paper, World of Tanks may not have sounded like the catchiest of games – players roll out into battlefields in one of a large number of 20th Century tanks (and related vehicles) drawn from all the major powers of the time and then do battle – so, those looking for a royal rumble between Uncle Sam’s tanks and classic Soviet armaments, for example, can do so. With several forces’ vehicles to choose from, and gradually more powerful vehicles, parts and upgrades to unlock through constant usage and play, World of Tanks has created a player progression model that dripfeeds upgrades at a reasonable rate. A problem for many free-to-play titles has been that of progres-

Wargaming chief executive Viktor Kislyi; inset, World of Tanks

sion – make it too hard to advance, and players become frustrated and leave; create too many paywalls, or in-your-face monetisation options, and players get frustrated and leave; create intrusive follow-up player campaigns through email barrages or social media hits etc, and – well, you can guess what happens! Such common mistakes have been among the reasons why several high-profile gaming companies have stumbled and fell, as hit titles have stalled, player numbers plateaued, and revenues shrank or plummeted. Wall Street IPO dar-

lings one month have an awful habit of making quieter headlines with unimpressive quarterly returns, staff layoffs and managerial exits just a bit later on. Howe ve r, K i s l y i ’s impressive long-term success with Wargaming’s strategies and models, and particularly with

World of Tanks, may have finally cracked the problem of creating long-term growth and strong financial returns from free content. With its passionate fan base – and, interestingly, global reach to both historical fans and competitive gamers alike – World of Tanks has smashed its

way into being one of the world’s top multiplayer titles, with decent financials from its subsequent spin-offs. It will be interesting to see what Kislyi, and Wargaming, get up to next, and whether the company’s tanks can lead a charge into bold new gaming fronts ...

A preview of upcoming title, The Division, which has united gamers and critics  shane dillon

GAMERS around the world – more than 6.4 million of them, to be close enough – set a new record recently, when they played a three-day, time limited demo of one of the biggest games of 2016, The Division (PC, PS4, XBO). Finally due out on March 8, The Division has been in development for several years, with critical interest ebbing and flowing as time went on, without any sign of it appearing. Thankfully, The Division’s recent

beta (public test) launch – its second, in fact – saw more than six million gamers around the world eke as much gameplay as they could out of its three-day access period, where a decent section of the game was available to play through. Best described as a third-person action title with extensive role-playing elements, and with an online multiplayer aspect, The Division is set in a largely abandoned lower Manhattan, three weeks after a devastating, and almost completely fatal, plague breaks out during the Black Friday

sales, spread like wildfire thanks to contaminated bank notes. The electricity still works, and ‘stale’ Christmas decorations abound – but Manhattan is a mess, with abandoned cars everywhere in the clogged, snowbound and deserted streets. All kinds of gangs, thugs and dangerous people roam amid chaotic and abandoned quarantine zones, where bodybags are unceremoniously piled in grim piles,

and goods spill out of stripped and looted shops. As a Division agent, players seek to restore order to the

devastated city, undertaking missions to rescue civilians, help survivors, build up a home base, and much, much, much more. Look out for my full review in a few weeks, which I can confirm was very interesting – and fun – indeed. The recent beta presented one of the most detailed, prettiest and authentic game worlds I’ve ever seen (inset), with The Division really nailing what New York looks and feels like.

26 blanch Gazette 3 March 2016

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I Michael McCoy wish to apply for full planning permission for development at 52 Aspen Avenue, Clonsilla Dublin 15. The development will consist of construction of rear dormer window to existing attic space previously granted permission (Ref. No. FB 15B/0048). 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. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the planning authority of the application.

We Babylon foods ltd. intend to apply for retention permission for development at : 7 Lillyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Way , Ongar Green , Dublin 15 . The development will consist of erecting 1.2 m high garden fencing on the existing 2.1 m high boundary wall. 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. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee (â&#x201A;Ź20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by Fingal county council of the application.

We, Deirdre Kearney and William Batt are applying for full planning permission for the following: i) removal of existing lean-to roof and the construction of a single storey brick faced porch extension, 3.96m2, and ext end ed fro nt living room, 4.12m2, both with selected metal clad pitched roof over to the front of existing dwelling ii) New ground floor side window to existing wc. iii) attic conversion, 20m2, with change of roof profile to the side of dwelling from pitched to gable end, rear dormer extension, 3 no. rooflights to front of roof and a side window in the gable wall at a t t i c l e v e l iv) proposed new rear single storey ground f loor extension with tiled pitched roof o v e r , 9 . 8 6 m 2 . all with associated site works at 6 Riverwood Green, Castleknock, D u b l i n 1 5 . 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 a u t h o rity of this application.

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Planning permission is sought by Stephen Malone on lands at Castleknock Road, Castleknock, Dublin 15 for a proposed office development. The application site is an infill site to the rear of Nos. 1-2 Castleknock Road (Protected Structures Ref. 768 + 769), rear of No. 3 Castleknock Road (Parkside House-Protected Structure Ref. 770) and to the rear and side of Village House/Post Office House (Protected Structures Ref. 766 + 767) on Castleknock Road. The lands are located within an Architectural Conservation Area. Permission is being sought for the construction of a 3 storey office development over part basement part undercroft car park with associated ancillary office facilities, utilisation of existing vehicular and pedestrian entrances, landscaping/boundary treatments and all associated engineering and site works necessary to facilitate the development. 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 (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of this application. REMEMBER TO

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Gazette

28 gazette 3 March 2016

SPORT

FastSport Nguyen wins big in Irish Badminton: DUBLINER Nhat Nguyen won badminton’s Carlton Irish Under-17 championships last weekend as he continues his rise up the ranks. The 15-year-old is Ireland’s number two singles player only behind twotime Olympian Scott Evans, moving ahead of Owen Marron and Joshua Magee while he also sits third in the men’s doubles list. Nguyen did not drop a single game en route to the final which he won comfortably 21-4, 21-8 against fellow Dubliner Mark Gannon. The boys singles was not the only event won by Nguyen as he also claimed the doubles title alongside fellow Dubliner and Badminton Ireland Academy team mate Paul Reynolds. Last month Nhat become the youngest player ever to win the Irish national championship title at just 15.

snooker: o’brien becomes oldest player in world to hit rare mark

Maximum 147 break for Fergal  james hendicott sport@dublingazette.com

SINCE Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay reached the top of Mount Everest in May 1953, approximately 7,000 other climbers have successfully followed them. In approximately the same period - following a world first by Joe Davis in an exhibition match in 1955 - only 41 people have scored snooker’s maximum break of 147 in official, professional competition. At just short of 44 years old, Lucan man Fergal O’Brien became the oldest player to achieve the maximum in competition, and only the second Irishman, clearing the table against Mark Davis

in Essex last week. Coming a week after Chinese player Ding Junhui scored the 117th ever 147 break, O’Brien also hit the papers for his prize money. Shortly after Ronnie O’Sullivan deliberately hit 146 as he didn’t deem the £10,000 reward for a maximum worthy of the score (O’Sullivan already has 13 perfect breaks), O’Brien took home just £500 his effort. Still, O’Brien remains pragmatic, focusing instead on putting away a rare chance. “You might play 1,000 frames without getting a good chance for a maximum,” he told GazetteSport. “Chances don’t come along very often. I don’t think I’ve got very close in tournament play before. Perhaps seven

or eight reds into a potential maximum break. You have it at the back of your mind, but you don’t give it that much thought until an opportunity comes up.” O’Brien does have a number of unofficial 147s - scored in exhibition matches or on unratified tables with slightly larger pockets. More than 40, in fact, but he admits that in snooker circles, you can be asked about first of all having a 147, and secondly having one in tournament play. The latter is a marker, something not yet achieved by a number of the world’s top ten, with players at the level of Joe Perry, Mark Allen and Martin Gould yet to pull off the feat.

Lucan’s Fergal O’Brien hopes fine achievement will aid the rest of his season

“I wasn’t too nervous,” O’Brien told us. “Calm enough. I think if it had been a difficult finish it might have been different, but I landed well on the blue and fairly perfectly on the pink and black. The black to yellow was a tough shot. It’s great to have ticked that box, though.” And O’Sullivan’s now infamous 146? “He could have given it to charity, if he didn’t need it,” O’Brien said. “But these things are so rare. Maybe he should have done it for the crowd. But I see his point about it being worth more than than that, even if the days of €147,000 reward in the

World Championships are long gone. “Obviously I’d prefer to have scored my 147 in the World Championship and walked away with the money, but getting one doesn’t mean you won’t get another!” Despite his antics, O’Brien is back in Dublin putting everything into preparing for the World Championships qualifying tournament, where he’d need to win three games to reach the Crucible. He’s currently ranked number 34 in the world. The Dub has had a run of incredible bad luck at the sport’s biggest event, having missed out by ten frames to nine on a pink,

black and respotted black since he last made the finals in 2010. “There are no easy matches, and there’s a lot at stake not matter who you play,” he explains. “It’s three games of best of 19, and there are no easy matches. When you get a bit older, the big thing is concentration.” “I guess the advantage of going into a world championship after a break is that so many people arrive after a succession of tournaments burnt out. “I think I’m probably due one after being so close over recent years, but it doesn’t really work like that.”

Alex oust St Gerard’s to claim Senior Cup thriller  sport@dublingazette.com

Alexandra College celebrate their Leinster schools senior cup success

ALEXANDRA College won a breathless Leinster Schoolgirls hockey Senior Cup final 4-2, seeing off reigning champions St Gerard’s to claim the title for the third time in the last five years. Indeed, they are now the most successful school in the competition’s history, winning the title for a 13th time in its 99 year history. It was a final of real colour and excitement, played out in front of close to 2,000 supporters at Grange Road with the balcony, flagpoles and much of the fenc-

ing adorned with the bunting and banners of the respective teams. For Alex, it was the league and cup double but they were pushed all the way. It was level at half-time as Eva Moroney breached the Milltown school’s defences for the first time in 10 games, cancelling out Isy Delamar’s thunderous opening goal. But two goals in quick succession after the break were the making and breaking of the tie as Katherine Egan provided a similar amount of power to Delamar for 2-1. Habika O’Connor then

turned in the third. The reigning champions from Bray were back in the mix with four minutes to go when Sadhbh McCarthy redircted a Lena Tice shot into the top corner. But O’Connor and Sophie Roopnarinesingh responded in brilliant fashion, exchanging passes direct from the tip off. The latter finished off the move to restore a crucial two-goal advantage to get over the line and confirm their place in next month’s Kate Russell All-Ireland championships. Alex now join Limerick’s Cres-

cent College, Galway’s Salerno and Loreto, Kilkenny in the AllIrelands with Ulster’s champions to be confirmed. The northern representative will be either Sullivan Upper or Methody who meet in the Ulster final on March 2. Earlier on, St Columba’s won the Senior 1 title. Hollie Canning opened the scoring in the first half before a double from Kitty Morris and one from Sophia Cole in the second half saw them beat Santa Sabina. Newparkwere Minor 1winners thanks to a 3-1 win in a shoot-out against Our Lady’s, Terenure.

3 March 2016 gazette 29

Gazette

Optimism abounds at LOI league launch GazetteSport caught up with St Pat’s Ger O’Brien, Shamrock Rovers’ Pat Fenlon and Shelbourne’s Kevin Doherty at the Aviva Stadium ahead of the new League of Ireland season  aaron gallagher sport@dublingazette.com

THE 2016 League of Ireland campaign gets underway this Friday with both divisions offering intricate narratives on top of the thrilling prospects of champions, promotions, European adventures as well as harrowing relegation battles. L a s t s e a s o n s aw Stephen Kenny’s Dundalk retain their Premier Division title with relative ease to add to their FAI Cup and Leinster Senior Cup wins in a season that saw the Lilywhites reign home four domestic titles from five. Challengers this term will come in the shape of a Cork City side that have played second fiddle to Dundalk over the last two seasons – finishing runners-up in both 2014 and

2015 – as well as Dublin hopefuls Shamrock Rovers and St Patrick’s Athletic. St Pats endured an up and down 2015 campaign which saw a disappointing fourth place league finish compensated by their EA Sports Cup title as well as confirmation of their spot in the first round of this summer’s Europa League qualifiers. Many suggested the Saints would challenge Dundalk for the Premier Division title last season but, in spite of a nine-game winning streak from June 5 until August, they could not get within reach of the eventual champions. Ahead of the season, captain Ger O’Brien stressed the importance of competing consistently with the league’s top clubs. “You are always think-

ing at the start of the season that there are three teams that can realistically win the title – I think we were one of them last year and we fell short”, he said speaking at the 2016 SSE Airtricity League. “This is the time for everyone to be as optimistic as possible before a ball is kicked. As soon as that whistle goes on the first night, the pressure starts from then until the end of October. “But we’re really looking forward to it; we have a lot of new players and I think there’s a lot of excitement in the group that we can push on and have a competitive season.” Also looking to improve on last season’s successful league campaign will be Shamrock Rovers. Now entering his third season in charge of the Hoops,

Ger O’Brien, left, St Patrick’s Athletic, and Conor Powell, Longford Town, at the launch of the 2016 SSE Airtricity League. Picture: David Maher/Sportsfile

manager Pat Fenlon will be looking to follow through on his intentions to leave a legacy at Rovers and bring home some silverware. His side finished in third place last season, providing the only regular challenger to Dundalk and Cork City in the top

A former Shels favourite as a player, Doherty said that both his managerial staff and players were a year wiser and more experienced to challenge heavyweights UCD and favourites Limerick FC. “I feel we weren’t quite ready for promotion last year; we had a very young

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

‘This is the time for everyone to be as optimistic as possible before a first ball is kicked’ - Ger O’Brien, St Pat’s --------------------------------------------------------

two spots. However, they still finished 13 points off the champions. “We slowly improved last year, we moved one place higher but we’ve got to keep challenging and competing for trophies because that’s what the club is about.” His side experienced the opportunity of a lifetime during pre-season when they competed in the Sait Nagjee Trophy held in India, where they beat least of all 1860 Munich as well as Argentina’s Under-23s before bowing out at the semifinals. Closer to home and down a division, Shelbourne will be looking to regain their place in the Premier Division as they once again vie to gain promotion under Kevin Doherty.

side”, he said. “I think we have improved in the last year. We’ve brought in Dylan and Cian Kavanagh, Jamie Doyle from UCD, and Robert O’Reilly who was at Drogheda United in the Premier Division. “We’ve brought a lot of experience in with Aidan Collins who was very good in the First Division last year, in my opinion he is one of the best centre backs in the league, so hopefully that bit of experience will add to the youth and talent of the other lads which will make the difference. “We’ve learned from things we did well, things we didn’t do so well and hopefully that will make the difference. We’re looking to improve on last year and if we can do that it would be great.”

FastSport

Anticipation bubbling up for the 2016 campaign ALTHOUGH a whistle won’t be blown nor a ball kicked until this Friday night, the 2016 Airtricity League season is bubbling up nicely for the new campaign. Arriving at the Aviva Stadium, sunshine beamed through the grand stunning venue’s countless glass frames. Ian Madigan was out on the pitch, practicing drop-goals alongside a couple of coaches from the Irish rugby team ahead of last weekend’s game to England. The combination of the weather and Madigan’s accuracy gave you a sense of optimism ahead of the new League of Ireland campaign. Con Murphy was MC for the day and kicked off proceedings by introducing a video of moments from last season to whet the appetite, it worked. It was then time for a number of speakers including the FAI’s Director of Communications Fran Gavin and Ronan Brady, Head of Digital and Marketing at SSE Airtricity. Much of the speeches were as you could imagine but one key note came from Gavin who announced an increase in prize money. “I am delighted to announce that we will be increasing the prize fund for the SSE Airtricity League Premier and First Divisions by 50% this season,” he said. “The prize money will rise from €315,500 to €475,500 for the League. In addition, we have the prize fund for the FAI Cup, the EA Sports Cup and UEFA Fair Play, which means our clubs will be competing for a total prize fund of €596.500.” Following that, Martin O’Neill took the stage for a brief Q&A with Murphy, who praised the league’s managers, and offered hope to Richie Towell and Chris Forrester on their chances of a senior international call-up in the future. Dundalk’s Stephen Kenny and Limerick’s Martin Russell, managers of the two favourites for both leagues then took part in their own Q&A, followed by Wexford Youths boss Shane Keegan and Derry’s new head-coach Kenny Sheils. As the speeches ended, opposing managers, players and officials were allowed chat amongst themselves and the media. There was a feeling of friendliness in the suite, although that may be long forgotten come 7.45pm this Friday night.

Gazette

30 BLANCH gazette 3 March 2016

SPORT

FastSport

soccer: saturday side continue push for lsl senior title

Barcelona to visit St Kevin’s for maiden tour to Ireland FC BARCELONA will pay their first ever visit to this country when they take part in the St Kevin’s Boys Club Academy Cup tournament which the Whitehall club are staging for the eighth time over the Easter weekend from March 25-27 at their ground at Shanowen Road in Santry. Fellow Spanish club and current Academy Cup holders Deportivo La Coruna are returning to defend the trophy and the Spanish teams will be joined by 2013 winners Celtic. Olympique Lyonnais are the first team from France to appear in the competition while twice runners-up West Bromwich Albion and the host club’s Under-13 Premier team complete the six team line-up in what is now regarded as one of the top European tournaments for elite players at this age group. The three days of play which starts on Good Friday morning at 10am between St Kevin’s Boys Club and Celtic. Ex SKB and current Republic of Ireland players Jeff Hendrick and Robbie Brady along with manager Martin O’Neill and his assistant Roy Keane and other guests will be making an appearance at the tournament over the three days. Admission to the tournament is €5 per visit – (two games) for adults and €2 per visit for children (two games).

Terenure to honour Rala TERENURE College RFC is to honour Paddy “Rala” O’Reilly at a gala dinner on Saturday April 23. Many rugby stars both past and present are expected to attend the event which will be held in a marquee in the Lakelands grounds of Terenure College RFC. Rala, as he is affectionately known, served as baggage

master to the Irish rugby team and the British & Irish Lions over a 21-year period. He officially retired from the role after the 2015 Rugby World Cup. Guest speakers on the night are Joe Schmidt, Paul O’Connell, Sir Ian McGeechan and Jason Leonard, and MC will be Risteard Cooper. Rala will be President of Terenure College RFC in the 2016/17 season. Over 600 guests are expected.

The St Mochta’s Saturday Senior side

Saints soar to super six

lsl saturday senior St Mochta’s Lorcan Celtic  sport@dublingazette.com

6 2

ST MOCHTA’S LSL Saturday senior side took another step towards title glory with an emphatic 6-2 win over Lorcan Celtic in Porterstown Park last weekend. John O’Leary hit a hat-trick before being replaced in a stunning performance from the frontman. Brian Flynn’s team went into this one four points clear of Cherryfield United and the manager took the chance to rotate his team with the beginning of March

marking the beginning of the business end of the campaign. AJ Ryan was the man to get the ball rolling after the Saints started the game like a greyhound out of a trap. On 20 minutes, Sean Gilbert jinked his way down the right and sent in a tasty cross which Ryan met in midair to break the deadlock. Once they got one, Mochta’s wanted more and the Celtic keeper done well to keep O’Leary, Billy O’Neill and Keith Hall at bay. He could do nothing on the half hour, however, when Mark Sheridan’s tidy switch found Gilbert who buried the ball

tri-nations handball Phibblestown to host international contests an under-16 international Tri-Nations handball tournament will be held in Phibblestown Community Centre, Dublin 15 on Saturday, March 12 and Sunday, March 13. Teams from Germany and Scotland will be flying in to take part alongside an Irish selection from Maynooth. The event is an excellent opportunity for young people to see the sport being played at a high standard and spectators are very welcome to attend.

home. The result was sealed soon after when O’Leary got his first, turning in another quality ball from Sheridan. Just like they did in the first, Mochta’s dominated the ball at the start of the second half. Before long, the control resulted in more goals as O’Leary grabbed his brace following some excellent work from Jarod Flynn. The Saints striker was giving the Lorcan backline all sorts of problems and got his hat-trick with a powerful header from another sweet cross, this time from Ryan. At the other end, James

Sheridan was first called into action on 70 minutes as he dealt with a longrange effort with ease. Mochta’s backline were spending more time starting attacks than defending but as the game drew to a close they were caught out on two occasions. Celtic got their first on 83 minutes on quick break as Sheridan was beaten by a tidy finish, despite some shouts for offside from the home line. Gilbert, who was outstanding on the day, soon replied with a sixth for the Saints with a stunning effort. In injury-time, Celtic grabbed another consolation goal when Sheridan

parried a free-kick and the visiting striker nipped in to prod home. But the result was sealed long before that and Mochta’s are now five points clear of second placed Drumfinn Celtic and seven ahead of Cherryfield United who sit in third, even with a game in hand. Indeed, it is a trip to Ballyfermot up next for Flynn’s side this Saturday as they take on Drumfinn. Although they would never admit it, should they come out on top in that, many Mochta’s men will feel they have one hand on the title.

3 March 2016 BLANCH gazette 31

Gazette

fearless performance

Erin Go Bragh Under-10s see off Garristown side

Club Noticeboard st brigid’s

erin Go Bragh’s U-10s started their 2016

season with a fantastic win over Garristown in tough conditions. Using quick ball throughout, they landed some outstanding scores from Shane Desmond, Michael Padden, Cian Daly and Cillian O’ Sullivan while Simon Egan, and Ethan McDonald in defence and Matthew Farrelly in goal stepped up fearlessly.

OUR junior footballers are hosting a

ther information and queries, contact

table quiz in Russell Park on Saturday,

David on 085 8340169

March 5. Teams of four are €20. For

The lotto jackpot carries over at

further details or to donate prizes,

€15,000 for this week’s draw in Myo’s

contact 083 4058987.

football: healthy start to league for Blanch side

on Friday, March 4. The reserve jack-

St Brigids GAA club member regis-

pot rises to €13,200. Make sure to have

tration is now open for the 2016 sea-

your tickets in the draw, or you can

son. The deadline for registrations is

purchase online via our website: www.

March 31. All memberships must be

stbrigidsgaa.com.

registered and finalised by this date.

The Kube is coming to St Brigid’s

Full details and online payment are

on Saturday, April 2. Tickets €20 are

available on the club website.

available now from all contestants. A

The St Brigid’s GAA Easter camp will take place from Monday, March 21 to

full list of contestants is available to view in the bar.

Thursday, March 24. See the St Brig-

Our ladies football team will host a

ids GAA website for further details and

table quiz on March 16 in the clubhouse

registration.

from 8.30pm; €40 per team of four. Lots

The nursery runs every Saturday in

of prizes to be won on the night.

Russell Park from 9.30am to 11am. We

St Brigid’s are participating in this

welcome all four- to seven-year-olds

year’s Blanchardstown St Patrick’s

in the Castleknock and Blanchard-

Day Parade. All members young and

stown area and new members and

adult are welcome to take part. For

families are always welcome. For fur-

more info, contact 087 6339238.

castleknock

St Brigid’s Kevin Bonner played a key role late in the game against St Maur’s

Brigid’s show quality in rush to AFL1 win

afl division one St Maur’s 1-7 St Brigid’s 0-14  sport@dublingazette.com

ST BRIGID’S and St Oliver Plunkett’s/ Eoghan Ruadh both got their AFL Division 1 campaigns up and running with fourpoint wins, seeing off St Maur’s and Thomas Davis, respectively. On a bright fresh morning in Rush on a heavy pitch under-foot, Brigid’s star ted the brighter and went four points up in the first 15 minutes and could have been further ahead

before Maur’s got back into the game with a goal midway through the half. Both sides reeled off three more points each before the break to leave St Brigid’s with a one point advantage going into break. Maur’s levelled the game straight from the restart and, now shooting down the hill, looked like they might kick on. But it was a combination of Brigid’s using the ball more effectively and Maur’s fouling in around the D that allowed Brigid’s to push ahead. With Philip Ryan now

on the pitch alongside dead-ball specialist Lorcan McCarthy and the evergreen Kevin Bonner, Brigid’s had the fire power to see out the game despite a late goal chance for Ciaran Reddin. In Mar tin Savage Park, meanwhile, Thomas Davis didn’t make it easy for Plunkett’s, pushing them to the pin of their collars before the Ashtown club eventually prevailed 1-11 to 0-10. As it was on Saturday night for the Dubs, Bernard Brogan was the deciding factor in the end for Plunkett’s. Full-

back Eoghan O’Sullivan and James Brogan also had solid games for the Navan Rd men. Plunkett’s have a tough trip to Páirc Na Uinsionn on March 13. Thomas Davis were set to face Boden next, but they can’t fulfill the fixture because of their involvement in the All Ireland Ireland Club Final on March 17, they’re now not in action till April 2, when they travel to Rush. B r i g i d ’s n e x t t i e is against K ilmacud Crokes on March 13 in a meeting between two heavyweights.

IT WAS a Super Sunday for our adult

Castleknock Hurling and Football

footballers as all our four teams reg-

Club will be running seven-a-side

istered opening day league wins. Pride

football 2016, or A Game for Gaeilge, on

of place goes to our Division 1 team who

the March 5 at 10.30am to celebrate

had a well deserved and hard earned

Seachtain na Gaeilge (snag.ie) and

win away to Ballymun Kickhams.

1916.

Sincere congratulations to all the

Seachtain na Gaeilge is a festival

teams, players and managements.

that celebrates the Irish language

“Tus maith is leath na hoibre!”

and our culture and we would like to

Our minor A hurlers had a hard

invite GAA clubs to come together to

fought draw against Plunkett’s while

promote and celebrate the Irish lan-

the minor B lads had a good win over

guage and of course to create new

St Sylvester’s. Congrats to Rob Shaw

friendships. All are welcome to attend

who was on the Dublin minor football

the competition enjoy the football and

team who defeated Kildare.

use their cupla focal.

Also well done to Molly, Claire and

Our nursery, thanks to Tiger Child-

Karla who played for the Dublin A minor

care, takes place on Saturday on the

camogie team against Tipp. Well done

all-weather in Somerton (beside the

also to the five Castleknock lads who

Castleknock Hotel) starting at 10am.

played for the Dublin north juvenile

We look forward to welcoming all our

colleges team against Castlecomer.

young nursery boys and girls.

Naomh Peregrine THE U-13 girls came out on top with an

four. Please get involved and support

unbelievable win against Templeogue

our Feile fundraising event.

on Sunday in their Division 2 league

Mother’s Day, Sunday, March 6:

match, 7-9 to 3-6. Well done girls,

Treat your Mum to a delicious two-

fantastic result for all involved.

course meal (main and dessert) for

The minor hurlers got off to a great

just €13; kids two-course meal (main

start against Lucan Sarsfields on

and dessert) is €6. Food served from

Sunday. St Peregrine’s kept them on

12pm to 6pm. Live music by Noel Por-

their toes throughout a fairly tight

ter from 4pm – 6pm

match. A final and winning goal from

St Patricks Day: sponsored walk

Aaron O’Reilly, his third of the game,

commencing at 11am sharp; meet-

sealed the deal, 4-4 to 2-9. Well done

ing at the club on 10.30am. Cake sale

lads.

by Feile teams will follow the walk.

Family quiz on Friday, March 4 at

The club tuck shop will be open with

7pm. Bring the kids down for a fun

breakfast rolls on sale. All proceeds

filled family quiz; €20 per team of

in aid of our Feile teams.

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

strong start: St Brigid’s get season under way with strong win over St Maur’s on opening day P31

march 3-9, 2016

Pushing it to the maximum: Fergal O’Brien hits 147 as he builds up to Crucible bid P29

Darragh Lenihan signing his new contract with Blackburn Rovers. Picture: Blackburn Rovers

Lambert’s Lenihan faith Dunboyne native signs new permanent deal with Blackburn Rovers following increased role since arrival of former Norwich manager

 nathan kelly

sport@dublingazette.com

REPUBLIC of Ireland Under-21 captain and Dunboyne native Darragh Lenihan put pento-paper on a new three-and-half-year deal at Blackburn Rovers late last week. The 21-year-old’s new deal sees him commit to Rovers until the summer of 2019. The former Belvedere man has made over a dozen first-team appearances for the Championship club’s first-team this season, featuring in every league game since the turn of the year. Speaking after his new deal was announced, the promising midfielder was delighted to finally confirm his loyalty to the club on a long-term

basis. “I’m over the moon to be honest, it has been a long time coming,” he said. “I’m happy that the manager has shown the faith in me to give me games and to offer me a new contract. It has been very pleasing over the last few months and hopefully it can continue. “At this stage of my career, the main thing is to play games and the gaffer has given me a great chance to show what I can do on the pitch. Hopefully I can keep improving my game and getting good results,” added Lenihan. Having joined the club from Belvedere in the summer of 2011, the young Irishman progressed through the youth ranks at Rovers, before enjoying a hugely successful loan spell with Burton Albion last season, where he was

a key man in Albion’s romp to the League Two title. On his return to the club, he featured in the final three games of last season but it wasn’t until after Paul Lambert’s appointment in November last year that he really got, and took, his chance on the bigger stage. “He has been fantastic with me,” said Lenihan. “He’s won the Champions League with Borussia Dortmund, he played centre-midfield which is my position, and I feel that he can really improve my game.” Lambert himself also reacted to the news, and praised the Irish Under-21 skipper, who will lead his country out against Italy in a crucial qualifier in Waterford later this month.

“I think he’s deserved it since we’ve been here,” said the Rovers boss. “I think he’s got a really good chance to be a good footballer if he keeps his feet on the ground. “Before we came in he was at Burton but he never really had a chance here. I remember watching him against Preston in an Under-21 game and I thought he was somebody worth keeping an eye on and then I watched him down at Aston Villa and I thought he was excellent. “Slowly but sure we’ve given him that opportunity to get in and, without put too much pressure on him, he’s got a chance,” Lambert added.