Gazette WIN BLANCH
March 16 - 22, 2017
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Motoring: Suzuki’s new S-Cross in the market REAL BODIES: We have four family impresses tickets worth €56SUV to give awayP19-24 Pg10
A 3 COURSE MEAL FOR FOUR AT THE NEWLY TRANSFORMED TOM’S TABLE RESTAURANT FOR MOTHER’S DAY Treat T reat your mum to a slap-up meal at the stunning new Tom’s Table at the Red Cow Moran Hotel. Tom’s Table Restaurant, “where great food and great company go hand in hand,” offers delicious local and seasonal produce in a bright, warm, atmospheric setting. It’s the perfect place to eat, drink and relax with family and friends. To enter this great competition, just email your contact details to competitions@dublingazette.com or simply visit the Tom’s Table post on our Facebook page.
SPORT CCC land All-Ireland crown P32
Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you
Amazon plans huge data centre for Mulhuddart Employment boost as 400 new jobs to be created during construction phase
MARK O’BRIEN A MASSIVE data centre is on the way to Mulhuddart as Amazon have applied for planning permission in the area. T he 20,739 sq metre
data centre is likely to cost up to €200 million, with the online giant saying they may build up to seven more data centres on the 26 hectare location, which could bring the total cost up to €900 million.
It is unclear how many permanent jobs will open up at the plant – but up to 400 construction jobs are set to be created at the peak of the construction phase. Tony Lamber t, chief
executive of Fingal Chamber, said that the plans are “the start of something good” for the area. A decision on the planning application is due on April 25. Full Story on Page 2
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JOBS BOOST | ‘UP TO 400 POSITIONS DURING CONSTRUCTION’
Amazon planning to build massive data centre in Mulhuddart MARK O’BRIEN MULHUDDART could be in for a jobs boost with the news that Amazon have lodged planning permission to build a massive data centre in the area. The 20,739 sq metre data centre is likely to cost up to €200 million with the company saying they may build up to seven more data centres on the 26 hectare location, which could bring the total cost up to €900 million.
While it is unclear how many permanent jobs would be created at the plant at this stage, the project – code named ‘Project G’ – will create up to 400 construction jobs at the peak of the construction phase. Tony Lambert, chief e xe c u t i ve o f F i n g a l Chamber, welcomed the news and said it could be the catalyst for more tech investment in the area. He told The Gazette: “It’s the start of some-
thing good. I think it’s something we will be hearing about for years to come. “Amazon have been buying up smaller sites in Tallaght and other Dublin locations, but this is one big site which could become a massive campus. “It’s great to have an innovative company like Amazon contributing to our community and economy by creating jobs and boosting local infrastructure.
“T hey’ve already joined the Chamber and it’s fantastic to have them on board. “We will have up to 400 jobs during construction and after that let’s wait and see, but it’s a huge operation.” Amazon already has a number of centres in Blanchardstow n and Tallaght. The company is also building a new data centre at the Clonshaugh Business and Technology Park.
The new centres are being built to meet the growing demand for Amazon’s web services, as well as to support its own shopping network. The company offers data hosting to companies, with their client list including global brands such as Netflix, Unilever, Kellogg’s and Expedia. Fingal County Council confirmed that a decision on the planning application is due on Tuesday, April 25.
FASTNews
Shopping for a new sofa has been made EZ for you WITH the retail year now well under way, savvy bargain hunters have been out and about, looking for bargains ahead of the pre-summer sales, with many furniture shoppers turning to EZ Living Furniture at its outlets around the city. Store managers have been reporting a brisk interest in sofas, with the chain promoting what is for most of us one of the key pieces of furniture in the home, while its Sofa Madness sale has focused shoppers’ attention on getting their next vital furnishing for the home. Managers also reported that their EZ Living Furniture experts were particularly busy assisting shoppers with choosing between fabric and leather, depending on their family or individual needs, with their advice helping to balance the need for ‘familyproof’ material with comfort and style. The Sofa Madness sale also saw an impressive variety of sofa-related furnishings sold, as managers and EZ Living staff were kept busy assisting customers to get the right fit and furnishing to suit their home, character and lifestyle. For further furnishing needs and regular sale bargains, drop in to your nearest EZ Living Furniture store.
Local groups invited to express Pride of Place
Glitz, glamour and special little heroes
LITTLE super heroes Josh McCabe and Namuun Natsdorj went above and beyond as they helped Miriam O’Callaghan and Alan Hughes launch the LauraLynn Heroes Ball which takes place on Saturday, May 6. The gala evening will take place in the Intercontinental Hotel in Ballsbridge raising much needed funds for the specialist palliative care LauraLynn provides to children with life-limiting conditions and their families. With a focus on enhancing quality of life, LauraLynn provides support from diagnosis, to end of life, and throughout bereavement with a range of practical, emotional and medical care for the whole family. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography
THE council is on the lookout for communities and projects in the county interested in taking part in the 2017 IPB Pride of Place Competition. Last month the local authority recognised three groups who represented Fingal in last year’s competition – Skerries Age Friendly Town, Mulhuddart Motocross Club (which won a special award) and the communities of Donabate and Portrane (runner-up). The competition will again have population categories for communities ranging in size from 300 up to larger areas of over 5,000. Specialist categories covering youth-centred projects, cultural projects and urban neighbourhoods and housing estates will feature. Among the Fingal communities to have picked up awards in Pride of Place since 2004 are Skerries, Malahide, Ballyboughal, Donabate, Parslickstown House, Draiocht Arts Centre and Mulhuddart. Those interested can find out more by emailing community@fingal.ie and state in no more than 300 words why you feel you are a good candidate for the 2017 Pride of Place competition. Emails should be sent before close of business on Friday March 24.
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ST PATRICK’S DAY | YOUR TWO-MINUTE GUIDE TO GOINGS-ON AROUND THE CAPITAL ON FRIDAY
AENGUS O’HANLON
WHEREVER you are in Dublin this St Patrick’s Day, the craic won’t be far off. Tis tradition after all, so it is, to be sure. The traditional parade will go down a treat as always, and there’s even been talk of a warm day turning up for a laugh. So as you don’t miss out on at least some of the action, we’ve put together a two-minute guide to goings-on around the county on the Greenest Day of all. From a diddly-aye day out in Swords, the fireworks at Tallaght Stadium, to meeting the snakes our patron saint banished to Dublin Zoo, we’ve got you covered. More or less. TOWN: The whole place will be green and everything will look great. The GPO, the Four Courts, the Dail, the Guinness Factory. Green as Kermit the lot of them. The world-famous parade starts at the northern corner of Parnell Square at midday. It makes its way down O’Connell Street, winds past Trinity and up Dame St before finishing up at St Patrick’s Cathedral around 2pm. Dublin Zoo are having a special family event from 12-4 which the children will love. There’ll be face-painting, leprechauns and fairies floating around, lots of fun activities and special zookeeper talks will run throughout the day. And then there’s the animals! FINGAL: The north county is a parade lover’s paradise – they’re everywhere! The biggest is in Swords from 11:30am, and then there’s
GO GREEN the Rush parade (13:00), Lusk (13:30), Balbriggan (2pm), Skerries and Blanch (both 3pm). Swords Castle will host the Castle Fleadbh from 1-5pm so if a traditional festival of music, dance and merriment is your thing, you know where to be. SOUTH COUNTY: The Clondalkin Parade gets bigger and better by the year. Get down to the stage area at Tuthills car park for live music from 2pm, before the parade starts a half hour later. Lucan’s parade begins at Tesco Hillcrest at 3pm and
heads into the village for the annual feast of festivities. The council has organised a celebration day at Tallaght Stadium from 4pm. TV star Brian Ormond will MC the event, which will see performances from a plethora of fine local talent including the Tallaght Youth Band, Dizzy Feet Dance Co and more. And then, to top it all off, there’s FIREWORKS! DLR: There’s plenty going on around Dun Laoghaire Rathdown. One of the highlights has to be the Leprechaun Chase in Blackrock. It gets starts at midday,
and heaps more fun stuff is promised throughout the day in the village, thanks to great work from the Blackrock Business Network. The Stepaside parade is always a great day out, while Dundrum Town Centre is having a mini festival with traditional music and facepainters galore, and you’ll never guess what colour the Mill Pond is at the moment. If you feel like a nice briskwalk, the 12th annual Harbour to Harbour walk from Dun Laoghaire to Howth (or vice versa) is a fantastic day out and a brilliant way to view our wonderful city. The Dublin Port Company are kindly sponsoring the event this year and will host the ‘Halfway Hooley’ at Berth 18. GETTING AROUND Luas: The Red Line bears the brunt of inevitable disruptions on Friday. Trams will only run between Smithfield and Tallaght/Saggart from 10:30 to 14:30, or until the parade is over, so don’t be rushing to Connolly for no good reason. And as with the bus and trains tomorrow, Sunday’s timetables apply (meaning trams leave town every 12-15 minutes from 7am until 23:30). Bus: There are several diversions in place on routes between today and Sunday because of goings on in town. The Nightlink will run from Thursday to Saturday. DART: Trains operate a Sunday service on Paddy’s Day and both Tara St and Docklands are out of action until 4pm. There’s no service between Newbridge/Hazelhatch/Grand Canal dock.
For a full list of events running over the weekend, visit www.stpatricksfestival.ie
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FASTNews
Gardai seek witnesses to serious assault in Blanchardstown GARDAI in Blanchardstown are appealing for information following a serious assault incident on Main Street, Blanchardstown. A man in his early 30’s sustained serious head injuries during an incident outside a licensed premises at around 2am on Sunday morning (March 12). He was taken to Connolly Hospital where he is continues to receive treatment and his condition is described as stable. A 30-year-old man was arrested by investigating gardai and detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act, 1984 at Blanchardstown Garda Station. He has been released without charge and a file is being prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions and the investigation is ongoing. Investigating gardai are appealing for witnesses. They are particularly appealing to anyone who may have been socialising in the area, purchasing food in nearby take-away outlets or to taxi drivers working in the area at the time of the incident to contact Blanchardstown Garda Station on (01) 666 7000 or the Garda Confidential Line 1800 666 111.
Gearing up for a musical thriller
ONE of the leading musical societies in Ireland, the Teachers’ Musical Society, have been very busy with rehearsals as they prepare for their upcoming show Sweeney Todd The Demon Barber Of Fleet Street. The show opens on Tuesday, April 4 and runs nightly until Saturday, April 8 at the O’Reilly Theatre, Dublin. Tickets are €15 opening night and €20 all other nights. For tickets log on to www.eventbrite.ie. See next week for more pictures.
McAnaspies taunted by Daniel’s murderer THE family of Daniel McAnaspie have revealed that they were taunted by the man who was convicted of the murder of the teenager. Richard Dekker (30) is awaiting sentence after being found guilty of murdering Daniel following a retrial. Daniel’s aunt, Sabrina McAnaspie said that Dekker referred to Daniel in the past tense in a phone call just days after he went missing on February 26, 2010. Speaking to the Irish Sun on Sunday, Sabrina said that Dekker told her over the phone that: “Daniel was a sound young fella, wasn’t he?” When asked why he was referring to Daniel in the past tense, Dekker hung up the phone. Sabrina added that when she called to Dekker’s house, he refused to answer the door and hid behind the curtains. She also said that she received bogus phone calls saying that her family were bringing too much police attention to the Blan-
chardstown area while they were searching for Daniel’s body. Daniel’s remains were eventually found in a drain in Ratoath in Co Meath on May 3, 2010. He had been stabbed over two times in the back, body and throat with a garden shears. The 17-year-old had been in state care at the time of his murder, following the death of his parents. Dekker was originally acquitted of the murder in 2013 but was retried and convicted after the State brought the case to the Supreme Court under the Criminal Justice Procedure Act 2010, which allows the State to retry a person even after they have been previously acquitted of a crime. This was the first time that someone had been retried under the act. Trevor Noone (28) pleaded guilty to Daniel’s manslaughter last month. The pair are due to be sentenced on Monday, April 3.
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Out and About
Contestants Thomas Reilly, Tom Gerrard and John Maye
Niall Burns and Darragh Daly
Jonathan Moloney
Brian Hughes and Sean Cody
Suzanne Core, Ann-Marie Walsh with Mary and Martin Murphy
Adrienne Hannon, Joanne Kierwan and Ileana Turian. Pictures: STEPHEN FLEMING
It’s St Peregrines versus The Kube T
HERE were plenty of locals who came out to support the St Peregrines GAA fundraising night last week. Thirty-five contestants tested themselves to see if they have what it takes to beat The Kube. They were set tasks to test their physical ability, mental ability, intelligence and responsiveness. There was also a raffle on the night with some great prizes on offer.
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Out and About
Sophie Watson, Mary and Aoibhean Kavanagh
Noelle McNally, Brian Sweeney, Rose McNally and Darragh Power
Phyllis Harte, Anne Walsh and Joan Gilhooley
Sean, Paul, Kerrie and Angela Donnelly
The contestants all pumped up and ready to go
Shay and Lorraine Martin
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SHEEPMOOR | FORMER CLOWN CHOIR MEMBERS SPREAD A LITTLE HAPPINESS
Funny business hits the streets of Blanch MARK O’BRIEN THERE was something funny going on in the streets of Blanchardstown last week as a mysterious group of clowns took to the streets in Sheepmoor. The clowns are actually former members of the Draiocht Theatre’s Hallelujah Community Clown Choir who loved their time in the choir so much, they have carried on meeting up and performing over a year after the project finished. The project ran from November 2012 until October 2015 with the aim being to meet up every week to sing and laugh. The group met every Monday evening and learned the arts of theatre and clowning.
At the end of the project, the choir performed a show called ‘Ship of Fools’ which was seen by over 2,000 people in various venues across Dublin. In an emotional video filmed at the end of the project, members of the choir said that joining it was one of the best things they had ever done and it had helped them take themselves less seriously and build their confidence. One member called Noeleen said: “Clown means to me letting the inner child have freedom.” Another member called Anne added: “It allows us to see ourselves and take ourselves less seriously.” Maureen Penrose, who continues to perform with the choir said that joining
had helped build her confidence. At the end of the project, she said: “I came here as someone who didn’t want any attention focussed on herself. “I just wanted to be in a choir and was diffident about standing up and doing anything in front of anybody. “I’m now prancing around the stage, delivering lines with great aplomb as far as I can see and feeling comfortable with that.” After such an overwhelmingly positive experience, many members of the group have continued to meet up and will continue to spread a little happiness on the streets of Blanchardstown for as long as they can.
FASTNews
€70k available for summer projects in Fingal FUNDING of €70,000 will be given to summer projects by Fingal County Council. The programme was launched last week by Mayor Darragh Butler and council chief executive Paul Reid. Summer event organisers were invited along to find out about the supports available to the community and voluntary sector. This year’s allocation has been increased to €70,000, capped at €2,000 per project. Cllr Butler said: “It was a great opportunity for groups to meet up and to share ideas of what is working well in their summer projects and to find out what Fingal’s community, arts, sports, libraries and heritage sites have to offer in terms of activities for young people.” For further information, see www.fingal.ie.
Darragh-lighted to help spread the word about Fingal’s great St Patrick’s Day festivities TOWNS across Fingal will come alive this weekend with parades and events to celebrate St Patrick’s Day. This year’s theme is Celtic Creatures, and parade participants will be getting into the spirit with their unique interpretations of the theme. Pipe bands, dancing, community and sporting groups, an array of colourful floats, carousels, entertainment and street performers will fill the streets in each location. T his year, Swords Castle will come alive to the sound of traditional music as it plays host to the Castle Fleadh. There
will also be a funfair on Friday 17 and Saturday 18 in the car park beside the courthouse. Mayor Darragh Butler, pictured busy at work helping to spread awareness about the festivities, said: “St Patrick’s Day will be one of the highlights of my term! “I am very much looking forward to getting to as many of the festivities across the county as possible and enjoying the atmosphere at the parades.” Details of road closures can be found at www. facebook.com/EventsinFingal.
DETAILS OF PARADES: Swords Parade, 11am, Dublin Road – Main Street – North Street; Rush Parade, 1pm, Main Street; Lusk Parade, 1.30pm, Main Street; Balbriggan Parade, 2pm, Main Street; Skerries Parade, 3pm, Main Street; Blanchardstown Parade, 3pm, Castleknock Road – Main Street – Snugborough Road – Westend – Blanchardstown Town Centre; Swords Castle Fleadh, 1 – 5pm in Swords Castle; Funfair, 10am – 6pm on Friday and Saturday, car park beside Swords Courthouse.
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Keeping busy at Blakestown Community School BLAKESTOWN Community School have been busy of late when the Build A Bank team held a ‘Green Day’ with both students and teachers dressing in green. The team held a Best Dressed competition and also a raffle which raised donations for the Blanchardstown Mountview Youth Initiative. The school also celebrated World Book Day with the launch of their book Miscellany of Stories. The book features pieces of art by students which were inspired by poems and stories by other students.
COURTS | CORDUFF MAN CONVICTED OF DEMANDING MONEY
Made menacing calls to stranger for €60k A CORDUFF man has been convicted of making menacing phone calls to a stranger demanding money. Patrick Clarke (31), of Corduff Place, Blanchardstown, admitted to gardai that he made two calls to Paul Gilmartin but he denied the charges of demanding money with menaces. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that the two calls were made at a time when the victim was being subjected to a sustained level of threatening calls demanding the payment of €60,000. After a two-day trial, a
jury convicted Clarke of making an unwarranted demand with menace on May 10, 2012 with a view to making a gain for himself or another. The jury also found him guilty, by majority, of the same offence on a date after that same date. Judge Gerard Griffin remanded Clarke on continuing bail for sentence next week. T h e t r i a l heard that Clarke was arrested after one of the calls was traced to an anonymous
SIM card pack that had been bought by him in a mobile phone shop. He told gardai that he was asked by a man he didn’t know to buy the card and that later that same day he was asked to call Mr Gilmartin’s number. The court heard the two men didn’t know each other. Clarke rang Mr Gilmartin and told him that “We k n ow ”
where he lived, worked and what car he drove. Clarke told him he was to “pay up or else”. Clarke said he made a second call in the following days and told him it was his “last chance” to pay up. Mr Gilmartin testified that he had been subjected to sustained nuisance calls and texts for weeks before and after the calls from Clarke. Clarke was only charged with making two calls, and there was
The court heard how one of the threatening calls was traced to an anonymous SIM card pack that had been bought by the accused
evidence that other people were involved. Calls from a blocked number began on May 8 and the court heard the sender was demanding €60,000 to be paid over. Mr Gilmartin said he thought at first somebody was acting the idiot, but as they continued he began recording them and contacted gardai. A mobile number appeared with some of the later calls and the victim also received menacing text messages. On May 19, the victim received a text stating: “You’re going to be shot some night when
you’re at home looking at porn”. Another text stated: “You’ve got to pay, I’ll cut your balls off”. Clarke told gardai that he never had any intention to harm the victim and said he would not do it again. He said he received no payment for making the calls. R o r y S t a i n e s BL , defending, told the jury that Mr Gilmartin was an entirely innocent party who had been subjected to appalling abuse by telephone, but said that his client did not make any of the threats to him.
Summer projects to get €70k FUNDING of €70,000 will be given to summer projects by Fingal County Council. The programme was launched last week by Mayor Darragh Butler and council chief executive Paul Reid. Last year, 40 groups and almost 4,020 children and young people benefited from €60,000 provided by the fund. T his year ’s allocation has been increased to €70,000, capped at €2,000 per project. Cllr Butler said: “It was a great opportunity for groups to meet up and to share ideas of what is working well in their summer projects and to find out what Fingal’s community, arts, sports, libraries and heritage sites have to offer in terms of activities for young people.” For further information, see www.fingal.ie.
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GAZETTE GIVEAWAY
REAL BODIES | WE HAVE FOUR FAMILY TICKETS TO THIS STUNNING EXHIBITION TO GIVE AWAY
Nice to meat you We must do this again, wouldn’t you say?
WIN WIN WIN
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EMMA NOLAN
EVER wondered what you look like under your skin? Well the Real Bodies exhibition which has just arrived in Dublin shows us just that. throughout the exhibition “Human anatomy exhibits have been around for a long time, and they’ve always been really clinical but we wanted to create something that looked at how we experience our bodies before, during and after life.” Creative Director of the exhibition, John Zaller gave The Gazette a tour of Real Bodies which is running in the Ambassador Theatre for a limited time. This powerful, though not for the squeamish, exhibition explores life by displaying 14 real, perfectly preserved human bodies and more than 200 anatomical specimens.
along with art installations and famous quotes on what it means to be human on the walls. The creators skilfully integrated the old theatre into the exhibition, even incorporating the underground tunnels in parts. These kinds of human anatomy exhibitions have been subject to controversy in recent years as ethical questions surrounding the origin of the bodies have been questioned. According to Dr Hong Jin Sui, Professor of Anatomy at the Dalian Medical University, the bodies at this exhibition
Real Bodies aims to connect audiences to a deeper sense of what it means to be alive. Founded on anatomical, cultural, and emotional narratives, the exhibition turns the way we view the human body on its head and takes visitors on a journey through the bodies functions and structures. “This exhibition looks at the human body from a cultural and emotional perspective as well as a physiological perspective,” John explains. The exhibition moves through the human body using a system by system approach, displaying 150 individual human organs. Some are healthy examples and some show signs of disease. There are little factoids
are “unclaimed bodies” from China and have been donated to medical and physiology departments in universities from city morgues. They are all legally donated and certified to have died of natural causes. Once in the lab, the “specimens”, or bodies are fixed in formaldehyde and maintained in refrigeration units. Our goal was to create a holistic experience of what it means to be human and to share that with Dublin,” John added. Real Bodies is open daily to the public from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. for a limited engagement. Tickets are available to purchase at the Ambassador Theatre box office and Ticketmaster outlets nationwide.
Oh yes of corpse!
The exhibit showcases fourteen perfectly preserved bodies and more than 200 anatomicaly specimens
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Grainne and GOT A STORY? Rachael put TELL US ABOUT YOUR LOCAL EVENT, CELEBRATION OR FUNCTION! on a great Seoige for Enable Ireland
Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email news@dublingazette.com
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OPULAR TV presenter Grainne Seoige got a helping hand from Enable Ireland service user Rachael Doak at the launch of TK Maxx ‘Give Up Clothes For Good’ campaign. Now in its 20th year, the campaign has raised €2.2m for Enable Ireland with close to 120,000 bags of unwanted clothing,
accessories and homeware items donated over this time. To support Give Up Clothes For Good and help Enable Ireland to continue their vital work around Ireland, simply donate unwanted clothing, accessories and quality homeware i n any TK Maxx store and nominate a friend, colleague or fam- ily member to do the same. Pics: Anthony Woods
GAZETTE
12 GAZETTE 16 March 2017
DUBLINBUSINESS
Dubliner’s frozen food revolution taking root
Done Deal hands out €37k to three charities THREE Irish charities have received €37,526 from DoneDeal’s charity month initiative. The proceeds from the money raised during the month of February will go to the Society of St Vincent de Paul, Suicide or Survive and RehabCare Waterford Resource Centre. St Vincent de Paul is the largest voluntary charitable organisation in Ireland, maintaining a practical approach to dealing with poverty. Suicide or Survive create and deliver innovative approaches that educate, inform and inspire people to cultivate good mental health and reduce stigma leading to less death by suicide. RehabCare Waterford Resource Centre champions the value of diversity and inclusion for people with a disability or disadvantage in their communities. Each charity received €12,508 from DoneDeal to invest in important projects over the coming months. Commenting on the donation, Agnes Swaby, marketing manager at DoneDeal said: “At DoneDeal we are delighted to be able to help another three worthy Irish charities. “We hope that our efforts in this regard, for these three charities, will have a positive impact on the lives of many using these services on a daily basis.”
EMMA NOLAN
A 31-year-old food entrepreneur from Dublin City who is helping to revolutionise the frozen food sector has won the Best Start-Up Business category at Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur (IBYE) competition. Samuel Dennigan of Strong Roots has won a €25,000 investment fund through the Local Enterprise Office Dublin City (LEO Dublin City) after scooping the category title at the IBYE national final. The competition, which is supported by the Department of Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation and Enterprise Ireland and run by the 31 Local Enterprise Offices,
Samuel Dennigan scooped the category title at the IBYE national final
attracted entries from over 1,800 18-to-35-yearolds, showcasing some of the country’s best and brightest business talent. Samuel officially
launched the Strong Roots healthy frozen food brand in 2015 with ovenbaked sweet potato chips, which was quickly followed by kale and quinoa
burgers, avocado halves and garlic roasted sweet potatoes. His products are already on sale in SuperValu and Dunnes Stores’
Firms offered free office space in London
Companies urges to enter Innovation Awards COMPANIES of all sizes from all over Dublin and from every sector have been invited to put their innovative products or services forward for this year’s Innovation Awards. From life-saving drugs to powerful computer chips and music apps to agri devices, past winners of The Irish Times Innovation Awards, which is now in its eighth year, have come from a wide range of sectors. Last year Dublin underlined its reputation as an innovation hub, with firms from the capital claiming four of the seven awards on offer. The four Dublin winners were Moocall, Scriba, Mastercard Labs and Coindrum. This year the seven categories for entry are: Agrifood; Energy and the Environment; Fintech; IT and Telecommunications; Life Science and Healthcare; Manufacturing; and New Frontiers, for innovations which do not fall into any of the above categories. Entry to the Awards is free. The closing date for entries is April 20. Three finalists will be selected in each category and these will be announced in late May.
outlets in Ireland and in Waitrose and Spar in the UK. Speaking after his win, Samuel said that he and the team are “over the moon”. “ We h ave wo r ke d really hard for the last 18 months on the business for ourselves and while we have internal milestones that gives us our own victories, the public acknowledgement of a body like the LEO (Local Enterprise Office), EI (Enterprise Ireland) and the DJEI (Department of Jobs Enterprise and Innovation) is huge. “For me, it has only put more positive pressure on the want to expand and grow into new markets and further develop existing ones.”
Mark Kellett, CEO Magnet Networks and marketing manager Louise McKeown at the launch of the Magnet Networks Brentry initiative. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography Ltd
IRISH businesses looking to expand to Britain are being offered free office space in the heart of London with the launch of telecoms company Magnet Networks’ “Brentry” initiative. Launchpad For London will see 10 Irish companies establish themselves rent-free in London’s new smart city at Wembley Park, while also enjoying the fastest connection speeds in the capital. “With Brexit dominating the news, it is
easy to forget that Britain is our largest trading partner and offers better access to funders, a better attitude to risk and a massive market for many Irish firms,” said Magnet Networks CEO Mark Kellett. “We believe that 2017 should be the year of Brentry, giving Irish businesses a launchpad into the city that hosts many of the world’s top companies and offers the best place to test your fundraising model, product or service offering.
“Most importantly, Irish companies who are also operating within Britain will be in a stronger position post-Brexit. “The 10 Irish companies who base themselves at Magnet’s headquarters at York House in the smart city will pay no rent for four months. They will have the fastest connection available, direct fibre optic connections from Ireland to their London desks and access to one of the largest Internet of Things and Smart City test beds in the world. “This a fantastic area, with great connections to central London (15 minutes to Marylebone), Heathrow and the North Circular Road and hundreds of shops and restaurants. “We are inviting interested companies to log on to launchpadforlondon.ie and complete the simple entry form before Monday April 10.” Enterprise Ireland Regional Director for the UK and Northern Europe, Marina Donohue, praised the initiative for focusing on the importance of having a UK presence in a post-Brexit Europe. “The UK is the largest export market for Enterprise Ireland client companies, and will continue to be for the foreseeable future,” she said.
THE BIG INTERVIEW P16 STYLE P18 MOTORING P22
Let The Gazette take you on a tour of what’s on across the county this week
Loah and fellow Dubliners Cloud Castle Lake (below left) are off to Texas for SxSW (left)
JAMES HENDICOTT TEXAS IS CALLING for breakthrough Irish musicians as industry-focused festival SxSW – hosted in Austin, Texas this week – prepares to hone in on 2017’s most likely new stars. The American festival will represent the capital. has come under fire in Loah, the stage name recent weeks, as several of Sallay Matu Garnett, artists pulled out in pro- will release her debut EP test at prohibitive con- in April, and is already tracts for acts that require heavily tipped to make US visas. waves locally off the back SxSW (South by of her jazz/soul mix and Southwest) does none- inventive vocals. theless remain the best She’s dubbed her location in the world to style ‘Art Soul,’ and has see major acts play tiny already worked with the venues, and the top spot- likes of Hozier and Kila. ting ground for newcomSpeaking of the event, ers to throw themselves Loah told the Gazette: “I in front of the abundant first heard about SxSW waiting music media. when I was staying in Ireland has tradition- NewYork and a bunch of ally had a strong asso- friends came back having ciation with the festival, had the most incredible with Arts Council fund- experiences. ing provided to assist the “I remember thinking travelling musicians in I really want to play that ample expenses in get- one day. So it’s always ting themselves on front been on my radar as
GAZETTE
DUBLINLIFE
16 March 2017 GAZETTE 13
Promising Dublin acts head West..well.. South by Southwest in search of fame and fortune
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‘SxSW has always been on my radar as being a parallel galaxy in its vast scope of music, people and technology’ ----------------------------------------------------------------------
of their audience, provided through arts agency First Music Contact. Past years have seen ‘Music From Ireland’ – First Music Contact’s showcase at the event – feature the likes of Hozier, Damien Rice, The Strypes, Girl Band, and Walking On Cars. This year’s Irish contingent might be unfamiliar to those outside of music circles, but look just as likely to succeed. Amongst those taking flight are up-and-coming pop-rock band Picture This, young rockers The Academic and lo-fi atmospheric soloist Jealous of The Birds. Globally-influenced soul singer Loah and spaced-out alt act Cloud Castle Lake
being a parallel galaxy in its vast scope of music, people and technology. “I’d love to meet industry people working at a wider level, European and American and further afield even and get exposed to loads of other musicians. “I’m particularly excited as Erykah Badu (my queen!) is playing, as is Goldlink, who I love. I have a really bright and surrendered outlook on it – whatever happens will be great and I’m gonna make the most of the experience.” Cloud Castle Lake have been established a little longer on the Irish scene, with previous EP ‘Dandelion’ successful enough to feature on
Loah behold Pitchfork and in NME, building on an already sparkling live reputation. They make a meandering form of atmospheric, dark-toned melodies, overlaid with high-pitched vocals from frontman Daniel McAuley. A follow up to ‘Dandelion’ is overdue.
“This’ll be our first time out in front of an audience since we started working on our album last year,” the band told us. “We’re in the midst of translating all that music into an exciting live show, and we think SxSw will be a great launching pad for showing our new material.
“We’re a bit frantic getting it all together, but can’t wait to start playing live again.” A third Dublin act, EMBRZ (the pseudonym of remix artist Jack Casey) had also been scheduled to join the party, but the slowed-down visa process has postponed his trip until
2018. All three however, by virtue of attracting enough industry interest to make their way to SxSW, can expect to play bigger stages in the coming months. With surprise sets in recent years from the likes of Radiohead, Drake, Jack White, Muse and Justin Bieber, those acts
who head out to Texas will find themselves at the very heart of music’s buzzband drive for a few days. They may never get a better chance to take off. SxSW takes place annually in Austin, Texas, every March, running parallel events focusing on music, film, comedy and tech.
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14 GAZETTE 16 March 2017
DUBLINLIFE
DIARY
Spread a beautiful message
Young Social Innovators from Ardgillan Community College advocated for change at the YSI Speak Out tour, supported by Ulster Bank, in The Mansion House. The tour is part of the YSI of the Year Awards, which challenges young people to think differently and come up with ways to tackle social issues affecting them and their communities. The Ardgillan students’ project was entitled, Any Weight, Don’t Hate. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography
PORT YOURSELF IN AN UNUSUAL 10K RUN RUNNERS will soon be able to take to one of the city’s most unusual routes – and help charity with every step. Starting from 9.30am on Sunday, March 26, the Dublin Port Tunnel will be open to runners as part of a 10k underground run, marking both the 10th anniversary of its opening and helping to support Focus Ireland. Natalya Coyle and Bryan Keane put their best feet forward to help promote the upcoming 10k Port Tunnel Run. Picture: Dan Sheridan
The special collaboration between Focus Ireland, Transport Infrastructure Ireland, tunnel operator Egis, Dublin City Council, Dublin Port Company and Elite Event Management aims to raise €150,000 for Focus Ireland’s work to combat and prevent homelessness. The run won’t ‘just’ be a memorable event for the unusual setting – a tunnel laser light show, aid stations with DJs and
entertainers, UV lighting and live kilometer markers will add to the underground theme and help to create an upbeat mood for all participants. Not only that, but a vibrant urban village market with lots of vendors and family-friendly events will also make it a great day for all. You can enter online at www.undergroundruns. com, or also see www. facebook.com/undergroundruns.
GO THE WHOLE HOG FOR A COMEDY SHOW DUBLIN comedy sketch group Foil, Arms & Hog have just announced an extra date for Vicar St on April 29 due to phenomenal demand. Called “Pure brilliant” by Tommy Tiernan, the group have over more than million hits on YouTube and have sold out numerous shows at Vicar St. With regular sketches on RTE, viral comedy hits and more than 70,000 online followers, Foil, Arms and Hog have established themselves amongst the new breed of Irish comedy stars. Tickets priced €25 are available now through www.ticketmaster.ie and usual outlets nationwide.
RACE OVER TO THE VHI MINI-MARATHON AS IF the upcoming Port Tunnel run wasn’t enough to excite fitness fans, Dublin women can also look forward to the VHI Women’s Mini-
Marathon, which is now open for entries and is also celebrating 35 years this year. This year’s event will see more than 35,000 women walk, jog or run through Dublin city on Bank Holiday Monday, June 5. A new route is place for this year, which will see the course completely reversed, starting this year at Fitzwilliam Square and finishing at Baggot Street. Women can enter now by registering online at www.VhiWomensMiniMarathon.ie.
TAKE A CAREFUL LOOK AT YOUR EYE HEALTH SHEDDING light on preventable blindness, World Glaucoma Week is taking place this week to highlight this major cause of preventable blindness. Glaucoma is an eye condition that causes permanent and irreversible damage to the optic nerve, which transmits images to the brain.
However, it is one of many conditions that can be picked up by an opticians and successfully treated, if detected early. To coincide with World Glaucoma Week, which is currently running until March 18, Specsavers stores across Dublin, and the National Council for the Blind of Ireland, are highlighting the importance of regular eye tests in helping reduce preventable sight loss. In Ireland eye examinations are free if you have been advised by an ophthalmologist (eye doctor) that you are at risk of glaucoma, or you have already been diagnosed with the condition. For further information, visit http://www.wgweek. net/about-world-glaucoma-week/.
REMEMBERING OUR DEAD OF WORLD WAR 1 A NEW exhibition in the Dublin City Library remembers the Irish War Dead of World War One.
Dubliners can visit a reflective and moving work that remembers and lists the names of all of the Irish who fell on Belgium soil in the war. A large memorial book, Assembly, records 174,000 soldiers’ names and forms the central part of a new exhibit from the In Flanders Fields Museum in Belgium, now on display in Ireland for the first time. Along with an oversize book of the names of the war dead, the installation consists of five chairs (representing each year of the war). The exhibit will be in on view in Dublin over the next three months at three different locations – Dublin City Library and Archive, Pearse Street; City Hall, Dame Street ,and Richmond Barracks, Inchicore. Items from the Royal Dublin Fusiliers Association Archive will also be view to support the exhibit.
16 March 2017 GAZETTE 15
16 GAZETTE 16 March 2017
16 March 2017 GAZETTE 17
Gazette babies are the cutest...
Gazette competition
Are you a member of a camera club? Would you like to see your shots in print?
Niamh Arthurs sent in this great pic of James and Christophear Arthurs “being boys”, & above right, James at five months
Clockwise from top left: Little smiler Sophie Elsa Dowyle (11 weeks); Diana Koo sent this little red-hooded beauty; It’s bathtime for seven month old Liam; Edel McCann submitted this stunning black and white photo of two-year-old Kye; Bella Ava Lamb is as cute as a button; And thanks to Sriram Bharadwaj for sending in this little cutie. Thanks to Celia for this stunning shot of 17-month-old Liam Kavanagh (left); while gorgeous little Ava (above) was sent in Marie HIckey
Send in your baby photographs and...
WIN!WIN!WIN!
SPRING is in the air, and the Gazette’s Bonnie Baby competition is in full swing. We’ve had a wonderful response from mums, dads, proud grandparents and family friends, who’ve shared some of the cutest photos we’ve ever seen. The competition will run for the entire month of March, so keep sending in those wonderful snaps of your little ones – we’ll feature as many as we can in the paper each week until April 6th. We have some great prizes to give away – including two hampers worth €90 each from our friends at NUK Ireland – and one lucky winner will win a free family or newborn photoshoot worth €180 from Gazette photojournalist and expert baby photographer Ali, of Alison O’Hanlon Photography. So keep sending in those snaps to competitions@dublingazette.com or via our Facebook page – and don’t forget to include your details and your baby/toddler’s name and age! Rebecca Gibson sent in this lovely shot of baby Kai Gibson
Two-year-old Olivia Gemmell is the best big sister little Isla (five months)
Thanks to Jen Brady for sending us in this lovely photo of
Gerard Cronin sent in this adorable photo of little Jack
could ever wish for. Thanks to mum Louise for sending in this lovely pic!
little Rosie Brady photo of little Jack at just five weeks.
at just five weeks.
Why not send your pictures to aconway@ dublingazette. com
GAZETTE
18 GAZETTE 16 March 2017
DUBLINLIFE Straightener €64
M&S Shortbread tin 450g €9
BaByliss 3Q Hair Harvey Norman
STYLE
Thomas Sabo Love bridge bracelet €219
Brown Thomas Dior 5 Coleurs €60
Aldi Pata Negra Cava Rosado €12
Brown Thomas Weston Scarves - Chelsea Mineral Silk Scarf €155
Aldi 3 x Drinking glasses €10
y italit re V 56 u P € ls Kieh Cream s t t g o n Arn Renewi n i k S
It’s in the bag for
Mother’s Day EMMA NOLAN Style Editor
Dealz Mothers Day gift €1
Arnotts Kate Spade bag €258
MOTHER, mam, mum, mammy, ma, mom, mama – whatever you call her, make sure she’s treated like a queen this Mother’s Day. Whether she prefers breakfast in bed, Sunday brunch or a fry-up with all the trimmings, treat her to a nice gift to go alongside her day. You can’t go wrong with the usual: flowers, perfume and jewellery, so here’s a selection of gift ideas to help you get her the perfect gift this year.
M50MOTORING
GAZETTE
16 March 2017 GAZETTE 19
in association with
The Dublin Gazette drives you through the motoring world on a tour of the latest models, technology & industry news
MITSUBISHI ECLIPSE CROSS LAUNCHED Mitsubishi launched the new Eclipse Cross SUV at the recent Geneva Motor Show, the first of a number of new SUV’s from the Japanese brand. The new Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross is considered to be a compact SUV Coupé, and is the first of a new generation of Mitsubishi Motors cars as the brand aims to re-position Mitsubishi as a pure SUV player in Europe. The new 1.5 litre turbo-charged petrol version will be available in Ireland from January 2018. This will be followed by an upgraded 2.2 litre turbo-diesel model later in the Spring of 2018. The new Mitsubishi four cylinder downsized petrol engine aims to provide powerful driving performance and high level of environmental performance for the new Eclipse Cross. The new engine claims precise control of fuel injection into the cylinder and intake port to match driving conditions results in excellent levels of fuel economy and emissions.
S-Cross signals Suzuki’s strong new SUV stature Suzuki has given the S-Cross a significant facelift, so much so that it feels like a new car. Michael Moroney took it to the roads with its peppy 1.0 litre turbo-petrol engine and reports on his experience.
SUZUKI has called the changes to the S-Cross a facelift, but in reality the new design makes the car look like an entirely new model. There’s a stronger, more off-road type look to the new S-Cross with its more solid looking grille, to give the impression that it’s always ready for action, even some tough stuff. The new-look S-Cross sits taller on the road and feels like a bigger version of the previous SUV model along with stronger SUV identity. This one looks like it can tackle the off-road challenges and Suzuki’s optional Allgrip 4x4 will surely do just that. The Suzuki S-Cross is considered to be a small market segment SUV and that’s a space that’s increasingly
getting crowded with new model. The Suzuki has to be one of the originals with long standing models such as the Ignis and the ever popular Jimny. So Suzuki has a reputation in this market segment and the S-Cross just enhances that even further. And there are other changes, particularly under the bonnet. The move to smaller engines with more power and economy is a significant part of the S-Cross update. Suzuki is renowned for being a master of small car and engine manufacture and that’s put to the test in the new S-Cross.
Continued on next page
GAZETTE
20 GAZETTE 16 March 2017
M50MOTORING
The lightweight, manoeuvrable S-Cross appeal Continued from page 19
Suzuki has replaced the 1.6-litre petrol engine in the S-Cross with a new 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine that gets the benefits of a turbo-charger. Suzuki calls this engine the Boosterjet version and it has plenty of power and is claimed to have 9% more torque than the previous 1.6-litre version and comes with even better fuel economy. T he three-cylinder engine is lively but you will notice it’s slightly difference performance especially at lower revs and in traffic. Out on the road and motorway there is no hint of the smaller engine, just plenty of power on demand. You will have rev the engine a little to get to
Suzuki S-Cross 1.0 SPECIFICATIONS
Engine Engine power 0 – 100km/hr Economy Fuel Tank Capacity CO2 emissions Road Tax Band Euro NCAP Rating Warranty Entry Price 120km/hr motor way speeds and that pushes the power band to close to 3000rpm. That’s a level where it’s difficult to achieve economy. Despite that I had a range of almost 750km on a full tank giving me an economy figure that was
1.0 litre 111hp 11 seconds 20m/litre (5.0/100km or 56mpg) 47 litres 113g/km A4 €200 5 star 3 years €20,995 just about 20% off the rated figure of 20m/litre (5.0/100km or 56mpg). I considered that to be a good level of economy and I found that the car delivers its best economy with the help of an engine start/stop system in city driving.
Suzuki claims that this new engine delivers 11% lower CO2 emissions giving an annual road cost of just €200. Compared with the older bigger engine model, Suzuki is also claiming a 10% improved combined fuel consumption figure with the new S-Cross Boosterjet model. That’s what makes the S-Cross an appealing city SUV. It’s lightweight and manoeuvrable and easy to drive. The driver seat height is not as high s some of the other SUV’s on the market, while it does give good road visibility. The test car came with a miles speedometer as the dominant numbers where the kilometres figures were smaller and more internal. That took a little getting used to, now that we are living with kilometres on
in association with
The doors open wide but lack that strong clunky feeling, while rear access is good
The soft touch design dash is clear and functional with a large central screen that divides into the four section menu. Analogue dials are used along with a multifunction steering wheel.
all roads so it was too easy to overstep the speed limits if you are not careful. The controls are neatly packaged with the dominant unit being the large centre flat screen display
Peugeot 3008 SUV Crowned Car of the Year THE new Peugeot 3008 was named the 2017 Car of the Year at the Geneva Motor Show by a judging panel,
national prizes the new Peugeot 3008 has already won. The 3008 is the fifth Peugeot to win Car of the Year and the first SUV honoured
comprising 58 European experienced journalists
in the history of the COTY prize. Peugeot claims to have 100,000
from 22 countries. The judging panel acclaimed its
orders for the new 3008 SUV has since launch in October 2016 with
style, interior design and performance. This prestigious trophy joins the 20 other inter-
84% choosing level three Allure, GT Line or GT trims, contributing to the move upmarket of the Lion brand.
that splits into four sections for easy use. The test car came with the full package including SatNav, which was simple to use. Setting the mobile phone to Bluetooth was also easy with no complicated routine. This small S-Cross SUV is well equipped. The entry level SZ4 models come with seven airbags, ESP, Bluetooth, DAB digital radio, air conditioning, 16-inch alloy wheels, cruise control with speed limiter, air conditioning, heated door mirrors, black protective skid plates and black wheel arch extensions. The higher specification SZ-T versions add LED headlamps, satellite navigation, polished 17-inch alloy wheels, rear parking camera, front and rear parking proximity sen-
sors, dual zone automatic air conditioning, front fog lamps, rear privacy glass, silver roof rails and silver rear skid plates. Five-star safety
The S-Cross has come through the Euro NCAP crash test programme with a five-star rating and includes two Iso-fix seat units in the rear. The fact that there is no spare wheel in the boot is a downside for me. The entry price is enticing at €20,995 but you have to add €4,000 to that to get the higher specification SZ-T versions with bigger wheels and more internal features. Adding the AllGrip 4x4 option is even more expensive, but looking at the design S-Cross it feels that it’s made for more off-road than on-road.
16 March 2017 GAZETTE 21
in association with
A facelift for new Korando SSANGYONG has given its Korando SUV a fresh new look for 2017 with a stylish new design, enhanced equipment and additional safety features. The car sports a newlook front aspect, which has been redesigned to maximise the car’s robust character with a distinctive new shoulder-wing grille and headlight treatment, while safety has also been improved with the addition of a front view camera - a first in this class of SUV. European sales are set to commence from the second quarter of the year. The new Korando SUV is designed for young families seeking an active lifestyle, and will appeal to those requiring a car that can handle the rough
and tumble of family life – plenty of interior space for growing children and a generous boot space for all their leisure equipment. The car features daytime running lights using 11 high-luminescent LED lamps with separate lenses to improve visibility, new 18” diamond-cut wheels, a new ergonomically designed steering wheel, and a new super-vision instrument cluster allowing the driver to change the colour of the instruments to one of six colour options. The new car also gets both front and rear view safety cameras for greatly enhanced safety, allowing the driver to monitor blind spots around the vehicle when parking or moving
at low speed. There is the choice between a 7” colour display offering a mirroring function to connect between a smart phone or an HDMI cable, and TomTom 7” navigation: both support the video camera displays, Bluetooth hands-
free and iPod connectivity. The new Korando is powered by a choice of a turbo-charged, Euro 6 compliant 2.2-litre diesel or 2.0-litre petrol engine (according to market), and is matched with either a six-speed manual or optional six-speed Aisin
automatic transmission for smooth, dynamic gear changing, comfortable driving and lively acceleration. The car also comes with either front wheel-drive, or a smart, on-demand all-wheel drive system, making it the ultimate leisure vehicle.
Opel is offering the Navi 80 IntelliLink with real time traffic function as an option for €1,500 extra
Opel boosts van connectivity OPEL is offering the Navi 80 IntelliLink with real time traffic function as an option to the Vivaro and Movano commercial vehicles. The system is claimed to be easy to operate via the seven-inch colour touch screen, buttons on the steering wheel or by voice control. The navigation unit can also provide the driver with realtime traffic updates and provide alternative routes before getting stuck in traffic thanks to its digital connectivity. In addition, the point of interest function suggests locations for breaks by displaying the whereabouts of shops and restaurants for example. Opel claims that the new connected navigation system helps Vivaro and Movano drivers save money. The timely traffic congestion warnings help them save time – which is an important expense factor. Personal smartphones can easily be connected via USB or Bluetooth, thus enabling audio streaming. Navi 80 IntelliLink is available to order at RRP €1,500 for both
The SsangYong Korando SUV gets a fresh new look for 2017
the Vivaro and Movano.
GAZETTE
22 GAZETTE 16 March 2017
M50MOTORING
Stunning Trezor wins design award
in association with
THE new Renault Trezor concept car
The low-slung, long-nosed, rear-
is an all-electric GT that embodies
wheel drive, two-seater electric
the styling cues and technologies
Renault Trezor GT appealed to the
set to feature on upcoming Renault
panel of normally hard-to-please pro-
models and it has been crowned
fessional car designers. Judge after
2016’s Concept Car Design of the Year.
judge praised the French EV concept’s
The award is based exclusively on the
dramatic exterior proportions, its
votes of a 20-strong judging panel
interior flair and magnificent use of
featuring some of the world’s top car
materials and the strong design con-
designers.
nection between exterior and interior.
FASTNews
Tenth-gen Honda Civic launched HONDA in Ireland has launched the new tenth-generation of the Honda Civic which it claims was the largest single model development programme in the company’s history. The new Civic, with an entry price of €23,995, is a core model for Honda in Europe and has been at the heart of the brand’s sales in Ireland. The new Civic is wider, longer, and lower than
Volvo Cars reveals new XC60 premium SUV VOLVO Cars revealed the new XC60 premium SUV at the Geneva Motor Show. The car replaces Volvo’s original XC60, which in the nine years since its launch became the best-selling premium mid-sized SUV in Europe with nearly a million units sold globally. The XC60 today represents around 30% of Volvo’s total global sales. Steer Assist has been added to the Volvo City Safety system. A new safety system called Oncoming Lane Mitigation uses steer assist to help mitigate head-on collisions, while Volvo’s Blind Spot Indication System (BLIS) now uses Steer Assist functionality to reduce the risk of lane-changing collisions. Pilot Assist, Volvo’s advanced semi-autonomous driver assistance system, which takes care of steering, acceleration and braking on well-marked roads up to 130 km/h, is available in the new XC60 as an option.
The new XC60 will be available with Volvo’s T8 Twin Engine petrol plug-in hybrid at the top of the range, delivering 407 hp and acceleration from 0-100 Km in just 5.3 seconds. The new XC60 will be initially launched with the diesel D4 engine at 190 hp and the D5 with PowerPulse technology delivering 235 hp. Volvo’s new XC60 claims to deliver a healthy performance. The new CleanZone four-zone climate system claims to remove harmful pollutants and particles from outside the cabin to deliver Scandinavianfresh air on the inside. Volvo Cars’ driver infotainment and connected services offer, Sensus, and the Volvo On Call app both receive a graphical update with improved usability. The new Volvo XC60 is set to go into production in mid-April at the Torslanda Plant in Sweden. Cars will be available in Ireland later in the year.
any of its predecessors. It has short overhangs and taut lines to deliver a high level of aerodynamic efficiency. Honda claims that the new Civic has been engineered from the ground up to give improved driving dynamics. This new Civic is lower on the road, while the seat position is lower to give a sportier feel to the car. The car is claimed to be 16kg lighter than that of the previous generation Civic, while exhibiting 52% greater torsional stiffness for improved crash resistance. Expect the new Civic to top the Euro NCAP crash safety tests. Honda is fitting a new three-cylinder 1.0litre VTEC Turbo petrol
Volvo has launched the new XC60 SUV with engine and safety improvements and a claim of
engine to the entry level
being the one of the safest cars ever made
Civic.
16 March 2017 GAZETTE 23
GAZETTE
24 BLANCH GAZETTE 16 March 2017
M50MOTORING
Citroen has extended their 0% finance deal CITROEN is offering new value for those drivers looking for a new family car which offers comfort and style, with practicality. The make the offer of a new top selling C4 Picasso car more affordable, Citroen has extended its 0% finance deal for a limited time, to April 30, 2017. Customers who order a new Citroen C4 Picasso before the end of April can avail of repayments starting from just €229 per month – or opt for the sevenmseater Grand C4 Picasso from just €259 per month. The Citroen C4 Picasso comes with family friendly features, including, blind-spot monitoring, reversing camera, hands-free opening tailgate and mirror screen with Car Play. The impressive people carried comes with Citroen’s five-year warranty, five-star EURO NCAP rating and three-years’ roadside assistance, for added peace of mind.
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16 March 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 25
ReelReviews
CINEMA
GAZETTE
DUBLINLIFE
KONG SKULL ISLAND: LATEST REHASH HAS SOME BANANAS ACTION SEQUENCES
VICEROY’S HOUSE
Just an average biopic THERE’S a great film to be made about the end of British rule in India, but Viceroy’s House (Cert 12A, 106 mins) isn’t it. Gillian Anderson is as watchable as ever as the last viceroy Mountbatten’s wife, as Indian independence looms with Britain preparing to leave. However, the short film can’t hope to pay justice to the complexities of the final days of British rule, and it falls well short.
This Kong is great and the action impresses – but despite an interesting rehash Skull Island fails to truly engage
LEGO BATMAN
Worth going batty about AS THE breakout star of The Lego Movie, Lego Batman (Cert G, 104 mins) is wholly entertaining. Once again featuring some terrific stop-motion-like CG animation, Batman’s timeless clash with The Joker is played almost as a bromance, with the duo’s constant clashes played for laughs, while a great supporting cast – and some terrific gags – make it a hoot.
JOHN WICK 2
Firing on all cylinders KEANU Reeves hasn’t been doing much of note in recent years – however, John Wick: Chapter 2 (Cert 16, 122 mins) is a rare exception. Following on from the wellreceived first film, Keanu ups the ante still further and delivers something fresh in the action genre, as his hitman character sets off on a trail of revenge through some wonderfully choreographed action and gunplay setpieces.
Monkeys about with classic lore
IF THERE’S one thing director Jordan Vogt-Roberts’s reboot/reimagining of the classic creature-feature can lord over its predecessors, it’s sheer scale. The spectacle of King Kong towering above the jungle, blotting out the sun, is a terrifying delight – this Kong would make short work of the Empire State Building. Unfortunately, despite its mostly-impressive visuals and the occasional thrilling set-piece, this is an uneven affair. Much like the first film in Legendary Entertainment’s planned MonsterVerse (Gareth Edwards’ Godzilla, 2014), Kong: Skull Island (Cert 12A, 118mins) suffers from a distinct lack of its titular beast. When Kong is
MARTIN MACNAMARA
onscreen, the thrills are boundless – there’s plenty of violent, visceral action for anyone seeking wanton jungle destruction. When the film slows down to take stock, it’s burdened with a clumsy, exposition-heavy script – “show, don’t tell” would have been a mantra worth meditating on a little longer here. Set in 1973 at the end of the Vietnam War, Kong: Skull Island follows a team of scientists and soldiers journeying to the titular Island for a geologi-
cal survey mission. Government agent Bill Randa (a healthy-looking John Goodman) hires former SAS captain James Conrad (Tom Hiddleston) to lead the expedition, as well as photojournalist Mason Weaver (Brie Larson) and a helicopter squadron led by the war-hungry Lieutenant Colonel Preston Packard (Samuel L Jackson). Naturally, Randa’s intentions aren’t entirely scientific, and the “seismological” explosives he plans to drop aren’t intended for purely geological purposes. After the 100-foot Kong swats away the helicopter squadron like so many annoying flies, the team is stranded on Skull Island, where, much like previous versions of the film,
they encounter an array of bloodthirsty prehistoric leftovers. Despite being set during the dying days of the Vietnam War, every effort is made to link Kong to the more contemporary Godzilla. The events here are very much spurred on by Cold War paranoia; foregrounding the theme of human discovery via technological advancement puts Kong in Japanesenuclear-lizard territory, nodding furiously toward a future franchise encounter. The action here, for the most part, is blunt, brutal and brilliant; more exciting overall than anything Godzilla had to offer. Kong turns human after human into mush with one fell swoop of his
fist and there’s no end to the amount of imaginative deaths a jungle-full of prehistoric monsters can facilitate. We’re always eager to see what manner of fantastical beast the brilliant minds in the creature workshop have waiting around the corner. Unfor tunately, the action often explodes into stylistic overdrive, sometimes evoking the sloppy, slow-motion theatrics of Zach Snyder’s superhero films. Surprisingly, there are occasional moments of dodgy green-screen effects – unacceptable in 2017. However, the action is a violent joy to behold whenever the set pieces are accompanied by the film’s irresistible Seventies Rock soundtrack.
The protagonists here are more ‘types’ than actual characters, though everyone does their job admirably enough – Jackson spits rage at everything that moves as a warhungry colonel with no war left to fight. Most enjoyable to watch is John C Reilly’s affable WWII pilot, stranded on Skull Island for 30 years – he’s far and away the best thing about the movie. Kong himself is a spectacle worth beholding on the big screen and, based on pure, violent, prehistoric thrills, Skull Island is worth the price of admission. However, there’s little here to leave us begging for future instalments in the crossover franchise. Verdict: 6/10
26 BLANCH GAZETTE 16 March 2017
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GAZETTE
28 BLANCH GAZETTE 16 March 2017
SPORT
FastSport MCGEE JUMPS UP NINE PLACES ON WORLD LIST: CASTLEKNOCK’S James McGee moved up nine places in the world rankings last week at the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships following a first round qualifying win over world number 102 Sergei Stakhovsky 6-4, 1-6, 6-1. He subsequently bowed out at the hands of Evgeny Donskoy, ranked 116, who went on to beat Roger Federer later in the competition, showing the depth of standard in the world game. The result lifted McGee back up to 209 in the world. He was unable to match that opening win when he switched to Dallas this week for a $150,000 Challenger event in Dallas where he came unstuck against Japan’s Tastuma Ito 6-4, 6-7, 6-1. Nonetheless, he made the jump up from 2017 in the world with his performances as he continues to be Ireland’s leading light on the world tennis stage.
SOCCER: REIGNING CHAMPIONS STRENGTHEN FOR TITLE RETENTION CHALLENGE
Shels’ Pearl says squad even better than before
KARL GRAHAM sport@dublingazette.com
SHELBOURNE captain Pearl Slattery is in positive mood as her team get set to go into the new campaign with hopes of landing a clean sweep of trophies. T he Women’s National League, shield, league cup and FAI cup are all up for grabs and Slattery believes her double winning side from last year can go even further this campaign. “After last year you have to go in with high hopes,” Slattery said at the launch of the 2017 Continental Tyres Women’s National League at the Aviva Stadium. “I think the squad is a lot better than last year. Even though we have lost a few players, the recruitment has been excellent. “We have top youngsters coming through also, so why not, we can win everything again.” The opening fixtures of the league campaign take place this weekend with Shels kicking off their title defence against Cork City Women at
The captains, including Pearl Slattery, third from right, at the WNL launch. Picture: Seb Daly
Morton Stadium on Saturday at 7pm. Shelbourne finished last season eight points ahead of second placed UCD Waves, who make the trip to Eamonn Deacy Park on Saturday to take on Galway Women. Sunday will see one game take place when Peamount United take to the road to play Kilkenny City at 2pm,
looking to start well. UCD go into the new campaign with a new manager on board as former Kilkenny United manager Noel Kealy replaces Eileen Gleeson, who stepped down from her position in January after three seasons at the helm.
All change Peamount United have
also changed their management structure with James O’Callaghan taking over from Pat Trehy. In fact, of the seven teams competing in the league, only Shelbourne’s Mark Leav y and Frank Kelleher of Cork City remain in charge of their teams from last season. The transition is something that the clubs will have to deal
with while the WNL will also hope to see less imbalance within the league in terms of standard. Kilkenny United have only earned a single point during their first two seasons in the league, while Cork also regularly fail to reach double figures in terms of points. A player draft system has been mentioned as a way of addressing this imbalance, and FAI Director of Competitions Fran Gavin wouldn’t rule out the idea while speaking at the launch. “It’s something you would never r ule out and we’ve looked at models in different countries where they have a system in place. “If there are structures that make the league more competitive then we will certainly look at it. “As the game grows, you have to look at that all the time. Is the league aligning with the growth of the game, is the competition so one-sided that it’s detrimental to the development of the players? “If a match is 10-0 or whatever result, it doesn’t gain anything for anyone,” said Gavin.
UCD and Hermes on course for final day showdown sport@dublingazette.com
UCD celebrate their winning goal. Picture: Adrian Boehm
THE women’s EY Hockey League regular season title looks like it is set to go down to the final day as UCD stormed back to beat Cork Harlequins while Hermes-Monkstown won out 6-1 at Ulster Elks. For UCD, their unbeaten run was under severe threat as Naomi Carroll’s double had Cork 3-2 up going into the final quarter at Belfield. An earlier goal from Karen Bateman and Carroll’s first had given the visitors a 2-0 advantage and despite two goals from Deir-
dre Duke, the students went into the final quarter behind. But a Sorcha Clarke goal and a winner five minutes from the end from Abbie Russell snatched a 4-3 success. For Quins part, they have some consolation as results elsewhere confirmed their place in the EY Champions Trophy and they do have a re-match against the Belfielders in the Irish Senior Cup final. Hermes-Monkstown’s win over basement side Elks was a far simpler affair. Laura Pinder, Caitriona McGilp and Sinead
Loughran all got their first goals of the EYHL campaign adding to efforts from Nikki Evans, Anna O’Flanagan and Rosie Carrigan. At the bottom, Ballsbridge club Pembroke recorded a vital win – their first of 2017 – over Ards with Eanna Horan getting the only goal in a 1-0 result. It came 11 minutes from the end and sees them rise four points away from the automatic relegation spot and back within range of Belfast Harlequins in eighth. She popped up to rebound off the pads following Rachel Scott’s
initial strike on goal. Beaufort’s Loreto took a huge step toward landing the final playoff place thanks to a Hannah Matthews’ 3-2 win over Railway Union. The international defender scored a trio of penalty corner goals to see her side beat their nearest rivals. Zara Delany had given Railway the lead against her former club before Matthews hit home two straight corner strikes while the other was a sweep shot. Emma Smyth got one back but too late to affect the outcome.
16 March 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 29
GAZETTE
FASTSport
Cabra lifesaving club wins 18 medals at English event DEDICATED lifesavers of all ages from Dublin made big waves at a major international swimming event in England where they achieved a string of top times and took home 18 medals. St John Berchman’s Lifeguard Club, based in Cabra, proved itself amongst the best in Britain and Ireland at the prestigious Royal Life Saving Society’s (RLSS) international speed championships at the Ponds Forge International 50-metre pool in Sheffield last weekend. Twenty competitors from the lifesaving section of the 150-member Dublin club took part in the event, which was organised by the RLSS, an international charity dedicated to drowning prevention worldwide. St John Berchman’s Lifeguard Club was established in 1974 to provide training for local young people looking for lifeguard jobs in the leisure industry, as well as learning valuable life skills such as swimming and first aid. The club soon expanded to include a competitive section and swimming instruction for local children. Between June and September each year, members give up their time to run outdoor lifesaving classes at North Dublin beaches. The RLSS speed championships involve young and old lifesavers competing in a number of disciplines and distances, including obstacle races, rescues using lifesaving equipment, rope throwing and carrying manikins filled with water to simulate adult casualties. Winners of gold medals included and Paddy Kelly and David Browne in the Individual Line Throw, Patricia Kelly and Laura Mulhair in the equivalent ladies’ event, and the ladies team of Laura Mulhair, Michelle Butler, Niamh Ronan and Eva Harrington won the rescue rope-throw relay event, setting a British record in the process. The club’s Director of Swimming, Sheila Mulhair, said: “Lifesaving Sport is a great way of ensuring that the Nation’s lifeguards keep up their fitness during the winter months, in readiness for taking up duties on the beaches later in the year. “This year was one of our best performances at the international speed championships and everyone was totally elated, although the swimmers came back very tired from a really hectic weekend.” “It was amazing to see them do so well, with personal bests recorded in several events.”
Heffo’s Army homage at heart of Dublin city Little Museum of Dublin charts the cultural significance of the return to form of the county’ senior footballers under Kevin Heffernan and how it matches the city’s development JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com
THE LITTLE MUSEUM of Dublin is currently paying homage to one of Dublin football’s most extraordinary men in their latest exhibition. Heffo’s Army - The Rise of Dublin GAA is dedicated to a man credited with turning around the fortunes of a capital side in the early 1970s, transforming them into three time All Ireland winners in a compelling rivalry with Kerry. Kevin Heffernan’s side – many of the same players who had been representing the county for several years, but failed to make a final since their previous win in 1963 – won Sam Maguire
in 1974, 1976 and 1977. Despite its focus on Heffernan and his playing and coaching exploits, though, the exhibition also has a broader scope. Author Mark Duncan, a GAA historian who curated the exhibit alongside his colleague Paul Rouse, described the offering as very much “a look at where Dublin was at that time”. “ We we r e f i r s t approached about putting this together in about 2011 or 2012,” Duncan recalled. “What the Little Museum does very well is pop culture, presenting a story, and it really fits well with this idea. We were keen straight away. It’s a kind of histor y of Dublin
GAA but also with a history of Dublin running in the background.” Calling himself a “child of the 70s”, Duncan went on to explain what made Heffo’s side so special. “The team that Kevin Heffernan played in, the one that won the All Ireland in 1963, was the first team from Dublin to win an All-Ireland with players who weren’t effectively rural immigrants,” Duncan explained. “It was a very rural game back then and its growth in Dublin had a lot to do with Dublin’s growing population. Around those times, clubs like Cuala, Kilmacud Crokes and Ballyboden St Enda’s were forming, either starting
Kevin Heffernan, third from the right, with members of the fire brigade and Sam Maguire
up or as a sort of amalgamation of other clubs. “There’s no denying that Heffo’s impact was substantial and immediate, though. When he took over, Dublin were
“But, without meaning any disrespect to the current side, they were far more culturally important. “They came around at the time of colour TV
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‘Without meaning any disrespect to the current side, Heffo’s Dubs were far more culturally important.’ - Mark Duncan
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not a strong side, and included many of the same players who had failed to come close to winning anything for several years. “They weren’t quite as successful as the current team, in that they won three All-Ireland’s in four years and the current team has won four in six,” Duncan continued.
coming into houses and big changes in the culture of Dublin; the growth of the suburbs and the city’s development. You still see banners for Heffo’s Army on Hill 16 because it was really something to be a part of.” Located on St Stephen’s Green, the Little Museum will host ‘Heffo’s Army’ until May 28.
GAZETTE
30 BLANCH GAZETTE 16 March 2017
SPORT
FASTSport
SOCCER: INJURY TIME DOUBLE EARNS CASTLEKNOCK PERFECT START
Corduff and The Bell bungy event for charity CORDUFF FC have linked up with The Bell pub in Blanchardstown to try and generate funds for cystic fibrosis. Each year, the Bell rents a crane and a bungy crew for sponsored bungy jumps. The club is looking to help find “jumpers” to take up sponsor cards, be prepared to jump and ask their friends, family and colleagues to support them by posting on social media and so on. Each sponsor card is hoped to pull in a minimum of €250 for the charity. The event takes place on Saturday, April 29 on the grounds of The Bell, starting at 12 noon. If you would like to get involved of for more information, contact Barry on 087 641 0194.
Mochta’s stung by Skerries’ big comeback ST MOCHTA’S left slip a 3-0 lead to fall 4-3 to Skerries Town in the LSL Major 1C division, putting a serious dent in their title challenge. Glen O’ Donnell opened the scoring with a magnificent finish after a delightful defence splitting pass by Aaron O’Brien. Dylan Sweeney made it 2-0 on 15 minutes tucking away a sublime move involving Martin O’ Neill and Glen O’ Donnell. O’ Neill found O’ Donnell who set up Sweeney to score. Skerries had a mountain to climb two minutes later when the goalkeeper was unlucky with a bobble destroying his attempted clearance
and the ball rolled into the empty net. But the comeback began in earnest on the hour mark from a header at corner time. Skerries made it 3-2 on 70 minutes when Saints keeper James Sheridan was beaten with a looping shot that found the roof of the net. In a week of remarkable comebacks, the hosts equalised on 72 minutes when a free kick hit the inside of the post and bounced into the back of the net. O’ Brien went close twice to restoring the lead, racing through on goal he clipped ball over the keeper only to see it going agonisedly wide. The Saints threw everything at the home side and were caught on the break in injury time when Sheridan was beaten with a low powerful drive to hand Skerries the points.
Castleknock Celtic Under-12s with their new kit, sponsored by the Gaiety School of Acting, which they wore for a 5-1 win over Clontarf
Celtic enjoy life of Reilly UNDER-15 DIV 2 PREMIER Castleknock Celtic Leixlip United sport@dublingazette.com
4 2
CASTLEKNOCK Celtic’s new calendar season finally got underway this week in Porterstown Park as the change in schedule, brought on by the move to summer football, kicked into gear. In one of their opening ties of the new campaign, Celtic took on Leixlip Utd in the DDSL Under15 Premier 2 division. With some changes to their squad, Celtic were hoping for a change of
form from before Christmas. Both teams started well and it was clear from the off that this would be a closely fought physical contest. While Celtic enjoyed more possession in the first half, the lack of true quality meant that chances were few and far between which left the sides level 0-0 at half time. Celtic lifted their game after the break and finally broke the deadlock when Leigh Reilly, after he had been fouled in the box, made no mistake from the penalty
SPECIAL OLYMPICS Lee and Byrne in Irish World Winter Games team COOLMINE’S Stephen Lee and Mulhuddart’s
LJ Byrne are both members of the Irish Special Olympics team that flew out to Austria on Tuesday morning for the World Winter Games. The 24-year-old Lee, now in his 10th year of Special OIympic action, will compete in the floorball competition. They are pictured with the entire team, including 26 athletes and 12 support staff, at Dublin Airport. The Games run from March 18 to 24. Picture: Ray McManus/Sportsfile
spot. Leixlip lif ted their game and, within five minutes, it was 1-1 following a deft header from a corner. Two minutes later Leixlip were in front with a neat break and a tidy finish. The visitors battled for everything as Celtic upped their game and with time running out, Nathan O’Reilly was put through and the youngster stayed cool with a good finish; 2-2 and still three minutes to go. Lloyd Turner then broke through the Leix-
lip defence and his right foot drive brought a wonderful save. Following a corner, Mark Hughes crossed into the Leixlip box where Sean Daly was on hand to force the ball home to regain the lead. While Celtic expected an onslaught from the visitors, it was Leigh Reilly who powered home his second with the last kick of the game to give Celtic a very satisfying win. In the Under-15B division, Celtic travelled southside and took on Ballyfermot Utd in the Lawns.
It was a very competitive and close affair, and goals were going to be scarce. However, a wellworked goal midway through the first half was enough to earn all three points in the team’s first league game after the Christmas break. In the DDSL Under12 Division 4, Celtic celebrated their new sponsorship from the Gaiety School of Acting with a fine victory over Clontarf FC in their opening game of the new season, with their goals coming from Evan Maxwell, and a brace each for Ben Foley and Joe Craven.
16 March 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 31
GAZETTE
COMORTAS AS GAEILGE
Castleknock lay on top class sevens showcase
CLUB NOTICEBOARD ST BRIGID’S
CONFEY claimed top honours at the recent Castleknock GAA Comortas 7s competition in Somerton Park. The sevens tournament as Gaeilge brought together teams from Dublin and Kildare for a day of football to celebrate Seacthain Na Gaeilge. Past and present Dublin players turned out to support the event including Sinead Finnegan, pictured with Castleknock’s Paul Mulvihill and Niall Tutty. Picture: Shay Hogan
ST BRIGID’S senior hurlers claimed the
Well done to the Dublin U-14 ladies
first trophy of the 2017 hurling season as
football squad and Amelia Ryan who
they defeated O’Tooles 1-15 to 0-11 under
fielded in her first intercounty game as
the floodlights in a rain-soaked Russell
Dublin opened their Leinster campaign
Park to retain the Boland Cup.
with a good win over Kildare in Hawkfield
Congratulations to all in Castleknock
LADIES FOOTBALL: MEATH SHAKEN OFF WITH LATE FLOURISH
The U-12 camogie squad had a great
land PPS camogie final win on Friday
day on Sunday in Abbottstown at the
afternoon. The girls overcame St Pat-
Caman to Leinster Development ses-
ricks, Keady on a scoreline of 2-7 to 0-5.
sions.
St Brigid’s players on the team were
Well done to Ciaran Breslin, Jack
Mairead and Deirdre McCarthy, Ellen
O’Neill and Cian O’Sullivan who repre-
and Lucy Bolger, Mia Murray, Aoife Cof-
sented Trinity College in the All-Ireland
fey, Claudia Daly and Dara Lynn-Loomes.
Colleges, defeating IT Tralee in a great
Come and join us as we take part in the
There was no winner of last week’s
town. We will be meeting at 1.30pm at
lotto jackpot, Next Thursday’s draw is in
Scoil Bhride opposite The Bell Pub. See
Russell Park on March 16.
Throw in Your Voice and have your say in the future of St Brigid’s - our town hall meeting is March 24 in Russell Park at 8pm; mark it in your diary.
CASTLEKNOCK
Dublin 3-17 Meath 1-11 sport@dublingazette.com
CAITLIN Coffey, from Castleknock, played her part as a strong secondhalf display paid dividends for Dublin at Parnell’s last Sunday when they comprehensively defeated close Meath in the Leinster Under-16 Ladies Football Championship, winning 3-17 to 1-11. Goals from Laura Quinn and Emily Whelan had helped the Sky Blues to develop a slender 2-6 to 1-7 interval lead at the Coolock venue. And, following a dominant per-
formance after the restart, they finished with 12 points to spare over the Royal County. They were under pressure in the early stages as Megan Peters’ early point was quickly supplemented by a superb goal from Meabh Byrne in the eighth-minute of play. Dublin were taking their time to settle but they managed to open their account with a fine Quinn point on the run. Meath inside forward Emma Duggan was on target either side of another Quinn single for the hosts before Ceiligh McDonald added a successful free for Dublin from a right-hand
angle. And the hosts had parity when Lucan Sarsfields’ attacker Quinn fired powerfully beyond the reach of Meath’s Emily Jo White. Meath replied with three more points in a row but a 0-2 salvo by centreforward Katie Wisdom left the gap at the minimum. Indeed, there was still enough time for Dublin to inflict a serious blow to the Meath challenge, as Whelan coolly registered a second goal for her side, after a Quinn effort had initially been turned away. The tie continued to go back and forth with Meath retaking the lead
early in the second half but Dublin crucially went back in front in the 39th minute and never looked back. Half-back Jodie Egan and McDonald split the posts and their scores were followed by a neat major by Whelan, her second, 14 minutes into the half. This created a six-point cushion for the Metropolitans. McNally kicked over from close-range after McDonald added a brace to her own personal tally and, thanks to points by Wisdom and Sarah O’Leary, Dublin had placed the outcome beyond any doubt, running up 1-9 without reply.
wonderful lotto team. Keep up with all our news on www. stbrigidsgaa.com.
There was no winner of our lotto jack-
attended our Comortas 7s in Somerton
pot in association with Rialto Ford. Num-
on Saturday. A really good day of football
bers drawn were 5, 12, 20 and 21. There
“As Gaeilge” with Sam Maguire also mak-
were 13 match three winners, each get-
ing an appearance. Thanks to Colaiste
ting €25. Next draw in the Carpenter
Naomh Eoin for their support and con-
with a jackpot of €2,400.
honours of the day.
LEINSTER U-16
Many thanks to everyone who supports our St Brigid’s lotto and to our
THANKS to everyone who helped out and
gratulations Confey GAA who took the
Knock’s Coffey plays key role for Dub U-16s
final.
St Patricks Day parade in Blanchards-
the website for further details.
Dublin’s Grainne O’Driscoll battles for possession. Picture: GAAPics.com
on Saturday, March 11.
Community College on a great All-Ire-
Get your tickets for Juno and the Paycock which is on Thursday, March 30 for
Our senior hurlers put in a brilliant
one night only in Castleknock Commu-
performance to earn a draw against
nity College. Tickets from Eilish on 086
Lucan Sarsfields in their first outing of
8901147or Breda on 086 8416431.
the year under Damian and his crew.
Application forms for our Easter
Good win for the minor A boys’ foot-
camp are available on our website. The
ballers over Brigid’s with the minor B
camp runs from April 10 to April 13 at Tir
lads unlucky against Crokes.
Na nOg.
Well done to Aisling, Karla, Aisling,
Forms and payment can be handed
Caithlin and Eimear who all lined out for
into the club shop any Saturday, March
Dublin teams last weekend. Congratu-
25. Forms should be in by April 8.
lations to Castleknock Community Col-
Our nursery, with thanks to Tigers
lege’s senior camogie team on winning
Childcare, resumes for all groups in Tir
their first ever All-Ireland senior camo-
na nOg on Saturday, March 25. No nurs-
gie title.
ery on March 18 due to the Bank Holiday.
GARDA/WESTMANSTOWN ALL three adult teams in action last
a 12pm start. No fixture for the minors
weekend putting in very good perfor-
next weekend but resume league action
mances but unfortunately losing all
on Sunday, March 26 away to Kilmacud
three contests.
Crokes. Training for all teams continues
The intermediates went down to St
at the usual times.
Peregrine’s away in the cup competi-
The Ladies put in a very good per-
tion in a reverse of the previous week’s
formance on Wednesday night away to
league result; the juniors lost out to Na
Clanna Gael under lights and continue
Fianna also away in the cup by 2-8 to 0-9
preseason training this week on Mon-
and our minors came up short against
days, Wednesday and Saturday at the
Good Counsel in a home league fixture by
scheduled times.
4-7 to 2-9.
Busy weekend on the juvenile front
Back to league action this week-
despite problems with unplayable
end with the intermediates away to
pitches. The U-15 boys continued their
Kilmacud Crokes on Sunday morning
winning run with a 1-15 to 2-9 success
at 10.30am and the juniors hosting St
over Naomh Barrog, the U-15 girls drew
Pat’s, Donabate at Westmanstown with
5-3 apiece at home to Skerries.
GAZETTESPORT
ALL OF YOUR BLANCH SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31
BACK WITH A BANG: Celtic’s young charges adapt well to life in the new soccer summer season P30
MARCH 16-22, 2017
HEFFO AT THE HEART OF THE CITY: Little Museum charts Dubs’ rise in a quickly changing landscape P29
Castleknock Community College with their All-Ireland trophy
CCC’s first All-Ireland Castleknock school produce breathtaking performance in Monaghan to land national senior camogie title with victory over St Patrick’s, Armagh
PADDY HEWSON
sport@dublingazette.com
CASTLEKNOCK Community College created history last Friday when they overcame St Patricks, Armagh 2-7 to 0-4 to capture the school’s first ever All-Ireland senior camogie title. Played out in front of large crowd at Inniskeen, Monaghan, the win was a defining moment for camogie in the college. Grey skies greeted the teams to Kavanagh country in what was a tense and low scoring first half. Castleknock did not have to wait long for their first scores as captain Aoife Whelan and half forward Caitlin Coffey each pointed to give the Dublin side a two-point advantage after four
minutes. Robust defending from both sides was the hallmark of the first half with the Castleknock defence revealing their own worth early on as they repelled a number of St Pat’s attacks with Castleknock’s Niamh Mulroney displaying some sure-footed work in the process. St Pat’s Eimear Grimley posed a constant threat to Castleknock in the first half but it was Catherine Beagan who got the Armagh side moving with two points from frees to level the game. Castleknock edged ahead just before half time through an Aisling Andrews free and a long distance effort from Mairead McCarthy. With little to choose between the teams at the break, there
was no hint as to the thrilling moments the second half would bring. It opened with a score for ’Knock free taker Andrews. Shortly, Coffey was to be denied two goal opportunities in quick succession by St Pat’s net minder Ciara Hawes. Now playing with greater fluency, the Dublin side were to get their reward when Coffey set up Whelan for the first goal of the game which was quickly followed by a Deirdre McCarthy’s effort which also hit the back of the net. A tenacious St Pats had their own chances, which included a fine shot from Leah McGoldrick which rattled the crossbar. Castleknock keeper Sophie Browne was called into action twice to prevent goals eating into her side’s lead.
The Dublin 15 school grew in confidence as the half progressed and produced some fine passages of play. A missed penalty following a foul on Castleknock’s Ellen Bolger and a late dismissal for the St Patrick’s full back had little impact on the result. Limited to two points in the second half, the Armagh side were unable to close the gap on their rival as Andrews and Whelan both tagged on further scores to seal a famous victory. Speaking to GazetteSport Castleknock principal John Cronin expressed his delight saying he was: “very proud of the girls, very proud of Margaret Shortall, our fantastic coach, 21 years in the community. Our first All-Ireland, a long time coming, the first of many.”