Gazette BLANCH
vox pops: Members of the public go to town when
expressing their anger over the Luas strikes Page 24
Motoring: Impressed by the Opel Performance Centre’s remodelled style and raw power Page 23
Don’t forget! Sunday, April 24 is Census day; so fill out the form you recently received
sport Handball:
St Brigid’s duo in All-Ireland final again Page 32
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April 21-27, 2016
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School is top of the class for technology
Scoil Ghrainne Community National School in Phibblestown, Dublin 15, recently held an assembly to mark their successful accreditation as a Digital School of Distinction (DSoD). This assembly was attended by children, parents and special guests; TD Jack Chambers (FF), Ger McHugh DSoD representative and Labour Party leader Joan Burton. The Digital Schools of Distinction is a flagship programme which aims to promote, recognise and encourage excellence in the use of technology in primary schools. Pictured at the event were Jodie Moran, Katie Curran and Rachel Alimi.
Father to run marathon in honour of stillborn son
‘I will be so grateful for any help to raise needed funds for [Tommy’s] research’
Ian Begley
A bereaved father from Castleknock is taking on the London Marathon in honour of his stillborn son. Stephen Doran, aged 34, will be running in the
2016 Virgin Money London Marathon this Saturday, to raise money for Tommy’s, a charity that specialises in medical research into the causes of miscarriage, stillbirth and premature birth. Altogether Doran has
raised more than €15,000 for the charity after he and his wife Karen’s son, Jude, was stillborn in November 2014. Describing his journey so far, Doran said: “So many people donate generously for charities
throughout the year, but if any good can come of this tragedy, and in memory of our beautiful baby boy Jude, I will be so grateful for any help to raise much needed funds for [Tommy’s] research.” Full Story on Page 6
2 BLANCH Gazette 21 April 2016
completion | call for progress in taking-in-charge of ongar estate
Council urged to apply for funding Ian Begley
Calls have been made on Fingal County Council to apply for newlyavailable funding to progress the taking-incharge of Ongar. Cllr Roderic O’Gorman (GP) who made the call, was speaking in response to a parliamentary question he had submitted to the acting Minister for Environment Alan Kelly (Lab) about a scheme for speeding up the taking in charge process. The scheme called the Special Resolution Fund (SRF) is designed to target developments with significantly unfinished
public services such as roads, water and drainage. Speaking to The Gazette, Cllr O’Gorman said: “I’m calling on the council management to rapidly apply for a new source of funding that the outgoing government made available to speed up the taking-incharge process in Ongar village, so that residents and businesses can get the same level of services from the council as all other people who pay property tax. “The taking-in-charge process for Ongar has been delayed as the original developer went bust and the bond that had
been put in place to pay for the completion of the estate was lodged with a British firm, which is currently refusing to pay it over to the council. “This issue is now in the British courts and will probably take years to resolve. “The consequence of this is that large parts of Ongar village are in a legal no-mans-land and the council are not able to provide residents with basic services.” In 2015, Fingal stated that the council made an application to the SRF for six estates in Fingal. They said Ongar village did not match criteria provided by the Depart-
ment of Environment and was not included. When Cllr O’Gorman asked Fingal for a reason why the estate was not included, the chief executive said: “It was envisaged that the SRF should be particularly targeted to address the remaining 992 unfinished developments with residents living in them, recorded in the 2013 survey. Ongar is not one of the 992 unfinished developments. “The entire public infrastructure in the Ongar development has been provided, although not to the councils standard and does not meet the criteria for SRF.”
Cllr Roderic O’Gorman (GP)
Concerned parents from Ongar are also calling on the council to take in charge of the estate following the tragic incident where a fiveyear-old boy was crushed and severely injured by a truck last month.
The parent’s association requested for the council to improve road safety in the area, but Fingal later stated that because they did not own the site they were not in a position to carry out any works in the area.
However, the local authority did say that it is “making every effort to take this area in charge, including legal proceedings to sequester the bond to bring the estate to taking in charge standard”.
21 April 2016 BLANCH Gazette 3
statistics | Garda division in top five for injury and assault cases
Competition
Future of transport
Dublin West tops rates of injury list Ian Begley
The Dublin West Garda division has one of the highest rates of injury and assault cases in the country, according to recent statistics. An official report, assembled by Garda management in 2015 for the year 2014, has only recently become publicly available and is the first full year all occupational injuries have been recorded. Injury figures show the top-five divisions were: Dublin West (53); Dublin South (39); Waterford (37); Dublin South Central (33); and Dublin North and Donegal (30). In terms of assaults, the top five were: Dublin West (29), Waterford (22),
Dublin South Central (21), Dublin South (19) and Kerry (15). Of the 611 cases, 269 resulted in less than three days off work or no days off. Some 98 resulted in between one and three months off, 59 between three and six months and 22 six months or more. The report also found that when the injury rate was broken down the highest was in Waterford (13.6 per 100 gardai), followed by the Operational Support Unit (10), Kerry (9.1), Louth (8.8), and Dublin West (7.5 per gardai). T he 611 incidents recorded in 2014 include: 283 assaults,103 road traffic collisions, 92 slips, trips and falls, 43 contacts with
sharp, pointed or rough objects, 22 needle-stick injuries or stabbings and six cases of psychological shock or trauma. The Occupational Injury Report 2014 stated: “As part of their normal work, gardai inevitably face significant and serious dangers and sometimes unrealistic public expectations. “The nature of policing is such that it is not always possible to completely control all risks. The special nature of operational policing may require that certain risks are taken to secure appropriate benefits to the public and the wider society, such as saving life, preventing serious crime and apprehending those responsible for serious crime.”
fill up on free fuel
News likely to appeal to motorists in Blanchardstown is the announcement that Valero, who market fuel in Ireland under the Texaco brand, has launched a “Win Your Fill of Fuel Around Ireland” promotion, in which Blanchardstown Service Station, Ballycoolin, is participating. Under the scheme, which continues until May 6, motorists who spend €30 or more on fuel at any participating station can enter a draw, the prize for which is a free €500 Texaco fuel voucher. One winner will be chosen from each participating station. Entries – which include a simple test of skill and are subject to terms and conditions printed on the entry form – can be deposited in a dedicated entry box at the station where the purchase was made. Pictured introducing the offer is Texaco’s Bronagh Carron.
As part of the Fingal 2016 Centenary Programme, the council are inviting primary school students throughout the county to enter the Fingal 2016 Centenary Schools Art Competition. They would like children from junior infants to sixth class to draw a picture of what they imagine transport will look like in the next 100 years. To enter, drawings (up to A3 size paper only) must be sent to Fingal County Council Centenary Office, County Hall, Swords, Co Dublin, before Tuesday, May 3. The winner will win a bike courtesy of Halfords Swords, first runner-up will win a place on the Irish Cycling Centre’s Children’s Summer Cycle Camp in Malahide Castle and second runner-up will win Family Tickets to Draiocht’s Losha on July 2.
4 BLANCH Gazette 21 April 2016
Heartache at toddler’s hit and run death A Dublin man from the Navan Road who drank a litre of vodka and took two grams of cocaine before he knocked down a toddler in the Phoenix Park last year has been jailed for five years. Ciaran Lane (25) of Ashington Avenue pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to dangerous driving causing the death of 23-month-old Vanessa Siatka at Ratra Triangle, Phoenix Park on April 6, 2015. In a victim impact statement read to the court, the child’s mother Katarzyna said at the time she couldn’t do anything
but watch as her “baby was taken away” from her. The court heard that Lane failed to stop after hitting the child. The car took her along the road for a few metres and she tumbled along the road before coming out from under the car. Half an hour later Lane arrived at Cabra garda station and told gardai that he had been involved in the accident. He told gardai he was driving at a speed of 80 kph and the speed limit at the location was 50 kph. Judge Patrick McCartan said the 26-year-old drove his motor
car in the “most erratic way” and what occurred in the Phoenix Park “was inevitable but entirely avoidable”. He said Lane was well over the limit and was using “a highly stimulant drug, cocaine”. The judge said Vanessa Siatka had no chance and this was as bad “a dangerous driving case” as he had ever encountered. The judge then sentenced Lane to seven years in prison with the final two years suspended. Judge McCartan also banned Lane from driving for twenty years.
courts | ‘motivation was purely financial’
Woman who ran brothels is jailed
A mother of two who started running a number of brothels in Dublin, including one in Blanchardstown, has been jailed for 18 months. Chunjie Wang (35) of Castlewood Ave, Rathmines, Dublin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to one count of organising prostitution. The court heard onApril 14 that Wang, a mother of two, organised four brothels in Rathmines, Swords, Blanchardstown and Clondalkin for seven months between January 1, 2011 and July 22, 2011. She was arrested after gardai raided the brothel in Rathmines on July 23, 2011, following an investigation into a website advertising Chinese escorts. Detective Garda Karen Ryan told the court over €18,000 in cash was discovered on the premises, along with 19 mobile phones and a number of laptops. The mobile phone numbers corresponded with numbers advertised on the escort website. Wang was arrested in the Rathmines brothel. She admitted organising the running of the brothels by co-ordinating the provision of sexual servic-
Chunjie Wang pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to one count of organising prostitution
es, the length and nature of the services and taking payments. Four bank accounts were linked to her with a total balance of over €27,000, Det Gda Ryan told the court. Payments of between €3,000 and €5,000 were sent to China every few days. Defence barrister, David Staunton BL, said his client arrived in Ireland from China to learn English 11 years ago with the “best intentions” of making a better life for herself. Wang worked for Dunnes Stores for nine years before she injured her back and neck and
was no longer able to work. At the time, her h u s b a n d ’s s o u ve n i r importation business was doing badly and the family needed money, Mr Staunton said. “Her motivation was purely financial,” he said. “It was not about controlling or enslaving people.” Mr Staunton said his client was “extremely embarrassed and ashamed” of her actions and had no previous convictions. He said she was a devoted mother and her family would suffer significantly if she was imprisoned. Judge Melanie Greally noted the case did not
involve the trafficking or exploitation of prostitutes. “It doesn’t seem the participants in the provision of services were greatly exploited in terms of the financial arrangements,” she said. She accepted Wang was remorseful for her actions and would find incarceration particularly difficult as a non-national. “Her family will pay a high price for her actions,” she said. But Judge Greally said the seriousness of the offence meant a custodial sentence was unavoidable and sentenced Wang to 18 months imprisonment.
April 2016 BLANCH Gazette 5
6 BLANCH Gazette 21 April 2016
challenge | father taking on Marathon in honour of stillborn son
Tragedy inspires fundraising drive Ian Begley
A bereaved father from Castleknock is taking on the London Marathon in honour of his stillborn son. Stephen Doran, aged 34, will be running in the 2016 Virgin Money London Marathon this Saturday, to raise money for Tommy’s, a charity that specialises in medical research into the causes of miscarriage, stillbirth and premature birth. The marathon will be the final fitness challenge for Doran who completed a year’s worth of treks, marathons and a hike from London to his hometown in Llantrisant,
Wales – the equivalent of six marathons in five days. Altogether Doran, who is a senior student advisor at the University of South Wales’ Cardiff campus, has raised more than €15,000 for the charity after he and his wife Karen’s son, Jude, was stillborn in November 2014. Describing his journey thus far, Doran said: “Karen was first aware of a problem three days after her due date on October 31 and decided to go to the University Hospital of Wales with a friend for a check-up. “I received a phone call from our friend, who asked me to come to the
hospital. At this moment, we were unaware of any bad news. “As I entered the room, Karen had just been told the terrible news that there was no heartbeat. “I will never forget the feeling of total loss and heartbreak at that moment, as Karen and I held each other. “We only had a scan two weeks previously, with nothing suggesting anything abnormal. Karen now had the knowledge that she still had to give birth to our baby, knowing that he would not be coming home with us.” Jude Joseph Doran was born after a nine-hour
labour. “As I held my baby son for the first time, at that moment, I felt like the proudest father in the world. “Despite us knowing that Jude will never open his eyes, never hold my finger with his chunky hands and never kick a football with his daddy, nothing can ever take that moment away from me.” Doran added that the tragedy has inspired him to set himself a fundraising challenge. “To date I have raised £12,600 and hope to reach £13,500 (nearly €17,000). I am also selling tickets for a raffle for some great boxing prizes,
Stephen in his Forrest Gump costume he will be wearing for the marathon
including some signed boxing gloves signed by some ex-world champions. “ S o m a ny p e o p l e donate generously for charities throughout
the year, but if any good can come of this tragedy, and in memory of our beautiful baby boy Jude, I will be so grateful for any help to raise much-needed funds to
assist Tommy’s with their research.” For more information or to donate, visit www.justgiving.com/Race4Jude or email stephen.doran81@ hotmail.co.uk
21 April 2016 BLANCH Gazette 7
Statistics | 2,390 burglaries and related offences were recorded
The number of burglaries fell by 3% last year Ian Begley
The number of burglaries fell by 3% last year in Dublin’s Western Garda Division, according to newly-released figures. Central Statistics Office (CSO) data for 2015 shows 2,390 burglaries and related offences were recorded in the division – a drop of 73 on the 2,463 reported the previous year. However, there were marked increases in two areas as a security exper t urged homeowners to take efforts to make their houses burglar-proof. The biggest decrease was in Blanchardstown where the number of burglaries fell by 22%. There were 692 reported incidents in 2014, which dropped to 543 in 2015. Burglary tallies fell in Cabra where 112 offences were committed last
year, compared to 147 in 2014. The numbers were also down by 11 in Rathcoole, which noted 143 last year as opposed to 154 the previous year. Burglaries in Lucan dropped from 283 to 280 last year while Ballyfermot saw a decrease of five incidents – from 275 to 270. Finglas reported a decrease of 25 burglaries – down to 274 from 299 in 2014. However, there were increases in Clondalkin and Ronanstown, which saw rises of 33% and 14% respectively. Fingal TD Alan Farrell (TD) welcomed these figures, saying: “I am pleased with recent CSO figures which have shown that, for the 12-month period up until the end of December 2015, the overall number of burglaries reduced by 5%, while the figures for the last quarter of 2015
actually show that, in comparison with the corresponding period in 2014, the number of burglaries reduced by 26.2%. “This reduction in burglaries is testament to the hard work of the members of An Garda Siochana in local communities across the country. The work of the gardai has been supported by the Criminal Justice (Burglar y of Dwellings) Act 2015, implemented by Fine Gael in government, in addition to the recruitm e n t o f 1,15 0 n e w gardai and the initial allocation of €5 million to support Operation Thor. Thus far, there have been over 1,000 burglary related arrests under Operation Thor.” Security expert Jim Toal of Fairco.ie has urged householders to consider burglar-proof windows and doors to deter a new, more effective, breed of bur-
Public urged to us use Census to give true reflection of Dublin West Local community activist TJ Clare has encouraged local residents to ensure they utilise Census 2016 to show and represent diversity of our population in Dublin West. Ahead of Census 2016, which will be filled out this Sunday night, Clare said: “Our community has grown greatly since 2011 and has become even more diverse. Hopefully everybody will take this opportunity to provide a true reflection of Dublin West in 2016 for future policy makers. For example, regarding religion, on the Census form there are six printed options and an additional space to add others. I would encourage all of any faith or none to utilise this question to ensure Census 2016
provides adequate information in order to adjust policies. “I am passionate about the issue of enrolment in our schools and the need to change policy and legislation in this area. Currently, it is legal for a child to be discriminated against based on their religion in denominational schools when seeking enrolment. “With at least 95% of schools being denominational, the majority of Catholic denomination, there is little choice for children of no faith, or a minority faith. We need the data from Census 2016 to define our future policy in this regard and ensure that religion is not a barrier to education,” he said.
glar who has taken over from the traditional opportunist. “T he day of the opportunistic burglar is gone. The new generation plan and execute their burglaries professionally. “Burglars now typically operate in groups
Biggest decrease in Blanchardstown where the number of burglaries fell by 22%
and will take time to drive around an area and identify 10 to12 houses which fit their ideal criteria. “The average alarm
doesn’t deter the new burglar and he has all the tools of the trade to break and enter into an average home. “If you are going to
spend money on windows and doors, you need to make sure they are windows and doors that burglars can’t get through,” he said.
8 BLANCH Gazette 21 April 2016
Gazettegallery
| students strut their stuff on the catwalk
Laura Lynch, head of youth business Bank of Ireland with Eleanor Dwyer
Lucia McCawley and Maureen O’Donnell
Emma McCarron and Maureen
Celebrations as Eleanor Dwyer, wearing a dress entitled Jewel of Nylon designed by fellow students Jennifer
O’Donnell
Siak and Emma Clarke, was named the overall winner. Picture: Brian McEvoy
Stars step out for ‘Junk’ fashion show L
ouis Walsh, Glenda Gilson and Vogue Williams were on hand to dish out the awards at the grand final of the Bank of Ireland Junk Koture at Dublin’s 3Arena recently. 80 students strutted their stuff down the catwalk in their creations fashioned by renewable materials. Louis and Vogue joined stylist Rob Condon, Lorna McGee and LSAD lecturer Tracy Fahey on the judging panel for the show. Over 1,100 designs were entered from all over Ireland, with Eleanor Dwyer, from Our Lady’s Bower emerging as the overall winner. Entertainment was from Louis’ pop band Hometown and Irish language group Seo Linn.
Christine Hamill, Gabriel Bannigan and Claire Tenwick
Ciara Doyle and Maeve Murray
21 April 2016 BLANCH Gazette 9
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| the inaugural UCD Festival launch event
Nicole Parks and Nicola Bailey Some of UCD’S most well-known and well-respected alumni Miriam O Callaghan, Fr Peter McVerry, Gordon Snell and Aoibheann Ni Shuilleabhain at the launch of the first ever UCD Festival. Pictures: Brian McEvoy
Plenty to see and do on Campus Laura Shorten and Ashling O’Brien
T
HE first ever UCD Festival will take place across the Belfield Campus on June 18 and visitors will experience an enormous variety of talks and exhibitions, theatrical performances, live music, interactive workshops and family entertainment. The showcase event that will be an excellent opportunity for one and all to discover the state of the art facilities on campus, explore the new buildings and the wonderful parkland.
Clodagh Lannon and Aishling O’Connor
Gordon Snell and Prof Margaret Kelleher
Naomi Cassidy and Ciara Horgan
Toluse Akinladl, Molly Dillon Leetch and Brenda Mangwandi
Roisin Monks and Cillian Totterdell
21 April 2016 Gazette 11
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dublinlife
diary
Coming together to help break the cycle of suicide Dublin cyclists are invited to take part in the fourth annual Cycle Against Suicide event taking place over two weeks in April and May. This year’s Cycle will travel over 1,100 kilometres around the island
of Ireland over 14 days, beginning in the Phoenix Park on Sunday, April 24 and concluding back in the capital on Saturday, May 7. Jim Breen, founder of Cycle Against Suicide, said: “At Cycle Against
Suicide, we believe in solidarity; we believe that together, shoulder to shoulder, we can empower one another to create an island of Ireland where ‘It’s OK not to feel OK, and it’s absolutely OK to ask for help’.”
Colm Hayes, Cycle Against Suicide Ambassador and RTE 2FM DJ said: “Cycle Against Suicide acknowledges life’s difficulties, offers reassurance and hope, and meaningfully empowers individuals across the island of Ireland to seek help when necessary.” Approximately 7,000 cyclists are expected to participate. Register now at cycleagainstsuicide. com.
“big-hearted” volunteers being sought The Irish Heart Foundation is seeking “bighearted” volunteers in Dublin to give a few hours of their time, to sell Happy Heart pins on-street and raise much-needed funds for their Happy Hearts Appeal this May. Every day in Ireland 27 people are losing their lives to heart disease and stroke and some 300 new cases are diagnosed daily - yet 80% of these deaths are completely preventable. Irish Heart Foundation medical director and cardiologist Dr Angie Brown said: “It is well known by medical professionals that heart disease and stroke remains the number one killer in Ireland. “The good news is that 80% of this disease is preventable – and the Irish Heart Foundation is here to help.” To register your interest as a volunteer for the Happy Heart Appeal on May 5 and 6, call Anne Harrington at the Irish Heart Foundation on 01-6685001 or email happyheart@irishheart.ie.
Pictured at the launch of 2016 Cycle Against Suicide was Cycle Against Suicide founder Jim Breen with Cycle Against Suicide ambassadors rugby pundit Brent Pope, Irish actress Charlene McKenna, RTE 2FM presenter Colm Hayes and former Armagh Gaelic footballer Oisin McConville. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography
recreating a 21-year-old project The Ark (the cultural centre for children in Temple Bar) recently put a call out for children to have their portrait photograph taken. These images of the nation’s children in 2016 have been placed in the windows of the building on Eustace street. The team at The Ark were setting out to recreate one of the first ever projects that took place 21 years ago when The Ark first opened. Back in 1995 for Faces in The Window, photographs of children were displayed in the windows of the building to show the world who The Ark had been created for. Now in 2016 as part of the recent Easter programme, 264 children
had their photographic portrait taken to become part of The Ark’s Faces in the Window 2016 project which features the faces of children in Ireland today. These children were selected from applications from all over Ireland. The photos are now in the windows - have a look as you pass by on Eustace Street.
Irish Cancer Society seeks team members The Irish Cancer Society is calling on women of all ages in Dublin to sign up to join their team ahead of this year’s VHI Women’s Mini Marathon. Those joining Team Irish Cancer Society for the event will be supporting the society’s free nationwide services for cancer patients and their families.
The Mini Marathon, which takes place on Monday, June 6, will see over 40,000 women walk, jog and run the 10 kilometre route across Dublin City. Mark Mellett, head of Fundraising at the Irish Cancer Society said: “Over 40,000 women will take part in the Mini Marathon in June and over 40,000 people will be diagnosed with cancer in Ireland this year, a poignant reminder visually on the day of the vast numbers of people affected by cancer in this country. “The Mini Marathon offers a great goal for those looking to get fit ahead of the summer while also truly making a difference to those affected by cancer.” To join team Irish Cancer Society, visit cancer.ie/ getactive
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dublinlife Bealtaine 2016: hundreds of initiatives in festival
Help celebrate older creativity Ian Begley
Bealtaine 2016 is almost upon us, which will once again provide the opportunity to celebrate older members of the community, and their living legacy
Age & Opportunity has announced Iconic Citizens as the theme for Bealtaine 2016, Ireland’s annual festival of creativity as we age which is celebrated during the month of May.
Bealtaine is an Age & Opportunity initiative funded by the Arts Council and delivered by hundreds of organisations around the country. Last year, more than 125,000 people participated in Bealtaine, making it one of the most
important cultural events in the national arts calendar. This high level of engagement, married with the creativity and enthusiasm of all involved, makes Bealtaine the vibrant and energetic celebration of creativity that it is today. This year, Bealtaine will celebrate its 21st birthday with over 600 events in libraries, arts centres, care settings, galleries, local halls and community centres throughout the country. With a wide range of activities including poetry, writing workshops, traditional music events, art exhibitions and an important seminar about the use of creativity in planning our communities and care settings, there will definitely be something for everyone during Bealtaine 2016. Festival highlights include a visit from visual artist Deirdre O’Mahony who will present First Citizens Speak, a film that explores the lives of a community of older people in north Clare. T he Ark Cultural Centre for Children will host a reading event for grandparents and their grandchildren which will be led by Marita Conlon McKenna and her daughter Amanda Hearty. The seminar, This Is Not My Beautiful House, will examine how creativity, creatively charged communities and the arts contribute to better ways of living as we age. In particular, the seminar will seek to address how creativity should shape residential and community design in a
way that enhances human dignity and growth. Finally, Bealtaine, in partnership with glor Arts Centre, Ennis, and Clare County of Culture, announced VoltAge, a festival-within-a-festival. VoltAge will feature three days of exhibitions, discussions and events from Thursday, May 5 to Saturday, May 7. Alongside these programmes there will be a huge range of 600 local initiatives hosted by local authorities, arts centres, libraries, active retirement groups, care settings, community groups and clubs from every part of the country.
Commemorate Speaking about the festival, Karen Smyth, CEO of Age & Opportunity said: “We are delighted to unveil a very special programme for Bealtaine 2016 as we commemorate 100 years since the birth of modern Ireland with a celebration of Ireland’s iconic first citizens. “The festival combines the creative mediums of visual art, music, theatre and literature to explore the impact that Ireland’s first generation continues to have on our culture and identity today. “As Bealtaine enters its 21st year, we are thrilled that the festival continues to grow and with over 600 different arts events taking place nationwide, audiences of all ages and across Ireland will have plenty to choose from during the month of May.” For more information and for the full line up, see www.bealtaine.com.
21 April 2016 Gazette 15
campaign: call for more support for sufferers
Summer adventure
Lifting the lid on Parkinson’s disease Ian Begley To mark Parkinson’s Awareness Week recently, a national awareness campaign was organised by the Parkinson’s Association of Ireland (PAI) to lift the lid on Parkinson’s and highlight the difficulties experienced by the 12,000 people in Ireland living with the disease, and to call for more support for them and their families. The week kicked off with a Unity Walk in Dublin’s Merrion Square,
attended by almost 1,000 people from all over Ireland - including the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Criona Ni Dhalaigh. Richie Kavanagh, who has lived with Parkinson’s disease since 2008, performed his recently re-launched hit song Aon Focal Eile. He is encouraging all his supporters and those affected by Parkinson’s disease to show their support for the Parkinson’s Association of Ireland to raise awareness for Parkinson’s disease, which affects over 12,000
people in Ireland. An art auction took place on April 13 with pieces of art being provided by Harold Huberman, a former fashion designer and artist, who also lives with Parkinson’s disease. Creating awareness of the serious impact of Parkinson’s disease and the effect it has on so many people’s lives is vital, says Paula Gilmore, chief executive of the PAI. She said: “The high level of engagement with our members and their families around issues
relating to Parkinsons shows us not just the seriousness of the disease but also the importance to those who live with it of the need for proper access to services and treatments. “The PAI receives no government funding and depends on donations to provide services through our 16 branches and national office in Dublin. “We are seeing a significant increase in demand for our services, with increased calls for
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FEATURES
People from all over Ireland turned out in force to support the Parkinson’s Unity Walk 2016. Picture: Marc O’Sullivan
our nurse call-back and support line services. We are also receiving more requests for information, publications and access to education, but there are simply not enough resources to deal with the 12,000 people in Ireland who have to live with Parkinsons every day.”
The Parkinson’s Unity Walk, as part of the Parkinson’s Awareness Week took place on April 10. Over the years, the walk has gained momentum with more than 1,000 people at this year’s event including Dublin’s Lord Mayor, Criona Ni Dhalaigh.
Get your kids out of Dublin this summer and send them to the renowned Delphi Resort in Connemara – Ireland’s leading resort for adventure. Running from July 3 to August 14, Delphi Resort’s S u m m e r A d ve n t u r e Camps are all-inclusive, so your kids will be fed and watered three times a day and given all the safety equipment they need. Three, five and seven night camp options are available plus they are running an early bird offer. Call or email to book before May 27 and receive 10% off when you quote “Dublin Gazette”. For information or to make an enquiry or booking, call Delphi Resort on +353 (0) 9542208 or visit www.delphiresort.com.
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dublinlife
business
Only half have a pension plan ONLY half of Irish people are in a pension plan, according to recent research conducted by Irish Life. Irish Life held a major pensions conference attended by almost 200 delegates in Dublin last week. On the theme, Empowering Retirement, speakers discussed new initiatives to engage members of defined contribution pension schemes. Presenting an analysis of the current pension landscape, Damian Fadden, Irish Life Corporate Business, discussed whether defined contribution schemes are ready to step up to ensure Irish workers are well-prepared for retirement.
“We know from our research that only half of people working in the private sector are in a pension plan, that the average contribution rate in defined contribution schemes is just 10%, and the average starting age in a workplace pension is in the mid-30s – so there is a mountain to climb. “However, these challenges can be resolved with the help of the behavioural insights we have built into our new Empower pension package. These are not just ideas – we have already successfully transformed pension scheme membership and savings levels for a number of our corporate clients,” he said.
Did you hear about the ninth Hearing Awareness Week? THE ninth annual Hearing Awareness Week recently saw five nationwide free health screening events take place during that time in Dublin, Cork, Galway, Waterford and Athlone. The campaign highlighted the issue of
hearing loss and how it’s a key part of overall health and wellness. Pictured at the city centre launch of Hearing Awareness Week 2016, in association with Active Retirement Ireland, were Dolores Madden, marketing
director, Hidden Hearing; Stephen Leddy, managing director, Hidden Hearing; Mai Quaid, president, Active Retirement Ireland and Dr Nina Byrnes, medical advisor to Hidden Hearing.
Picture: Conor McCabe Photography
resource: initiative to support communities
KBC Bank Ireland seeks groups to share €100k
Ian Begley
KBC Bank Ireland is calling on community groups across Dublin to apply for financial support for their dream projects from its €100,000 funding initiative, Bright Ideas. KBC’s Bright Ideas community support initiative returns for a third year to support individuals and organisations which are transforming and improving the lives of others in their locality. This year’s initiative will be promoted across seven different geographic regions, including Dublin, reflecting KBC’s expanding network of retail banking hubs in Ireland. A new Green category has also been created, to recognise the importance of environmentallyfriendly projects in com-
munities nationwide. A dedicated prize of €2,500 will be given to the overall winner of this category. Over the past two years, 70 creative and innovative local community projects have received funding through Bright Ideas, breathing new life into a diverse range of schemes. These have included creating communitybased amenities for the elderly and people with special needs, sporting and educational activities for young people, community wellbeing resources, arts and culture initiatives, as well as urban renewal projects. Among last year’s winning projects in Dublin was Steps Together, a pilot programme to provide people with disabilities with greater opportunities to participate in physical activity, health awareness
Eoghan and Ferdiad O’Reilly at the Grow Dome in Rialto, Dublin 8 - one of last year’s winning projects in KBC’s Bright Ideas community fund
and sport in their local community, helping them to build meaningful, interdependent relationships with others as a result. Sarah Hewitt, of St Michael’s House in Clontarf, which developed the programme and received €2,910 in funding, said: “The pilot programme went really well. It made a huge impact on the individuals involved and as a result we are now running the programme again
with another group. “Having access to funding through Bright Ideas was really worthwhile; it really made a difference to the people who participated and made a significant contribution to developing a sense of community.” Applications for Bright Ideas funding can be submitted at www.kbcbrightideas.com. The closing date for applications is May 31.
21 April 2016 Gazette 17
travel P20
asdfsdaf cinema P27 P21
OUT&ABOUT Never be out of the loop on what’s happening in Dublin! Let Out&About be your guide to all that is stylish, cultural and essential across the city and beyond this week
Gazette
style P18
Pets cosmo will be a perfect pal
Betroffenheit touches on universal themes of loss, addiction and recovery
Festival: bringing unique and eye-opening experiences of dance
World-class entertainment
Ian Begley
Extraordinary artists will present world-class dance as Dublin Dance Festival (DDF) comes to town from May 17 to 28. This is the first festival programme by new DDF director Benjamin Perchet, who promises 2016 audiences “an inspiring journey of aesthetic pleasure and intellectual stimulus”, exploring themes of migration, mobility and transformation. The programme will present work by artists who blur the lines between art forms and will offer unique and eyeopening experiences of dance, via world premieres, film screenings, exhibitions, discussions, master classes and more. DDF is the leading dance event on the Irish arts calendar, bringing together dance artists and choreographers from around the globe each May to
share vibrant, contemporary dance with audiences in Ireland. The 2016 edition will feature work from the US, Canada, Greece, the Netherlands, Italy, Switzerland, France and the UK, as well as showcasing and celebrating contemporary dance from Irish artists. One of the true ballet masters of our times, Alonzo King brings his celebrated contemporary ballet company on a first visit to Ireland. The twelve extraordinary dancers will be presenting two technically brilliant and sublimely beautiful works at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre on Sunday, May 22. Dublin Dance Festival are also thrilled to present the European premiere of Betroffenheit, an acclaimed new dance-theatre work by Olivier award-winning Canadian choreographer Crystal Pite and pioneering playwright/performer Jonathon Young.
The 2016 festival will open with the Irish premiere of Planites from Greek choreographer Patricia Apergi. This intensely physical, urban fusion piece for five dancers focuses on the foreigner, the immigrant - the person who travels, whether by choice or by force. Co-commissioned by Dublin Dance Festival and Siamsa Tire, The National Folk Theatre of Ireland, Anam, (meaning soul) will bring together the skills of world-class step dancers from the US, Canada and Ireland in an exhilarating fusion of styles. Authentic and raw, the world premiere of this percussive dance piece will be performed with live music and song by acclaimed musician Fergal O’Murchu. At the O’Reilly Theatre, The Akram Khan Company will present the heart-
warming Chotto Desh, a captivating experience for all the family from this multi-award-winning choreographer. Chotto Desh is thrilling and poignant tale of a young man’s dreams and memories from Britain to Bangladesh, told using a magical mix of dance, text, visuals and sound. Dublin Dance Festival box office at Festival House will be home to DRAFF: another exhibition, investigating the process of making dance work with a series of behind-the-scenes fragments from some of the shows in the 2016 programme. The festival will also offer an extensive schedule of seven master classes and workshops by festival artists for professional dancers, dance and performance students and children. For a full line-up of events taking place, visit www.dublindancefestival.ie.
The Gazette Newspaper has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week this week is Cosmo. He came to us as a puppy and has been in a home before, but struggled hugely with being left alone and, sadly, his previous family just didn’t have the time to meet his needs. If you live in an adult-only home with someone there the vast majority of the time, then Cosmo could be the perfect companion for you. He will need a little help to learn to settle in to a home again, but when he does, you will see just how loving and wonderful he truly is. If you think you could offer Cosmo a loving home please contact Dogs Trust on 01-879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www. dogstrust.ie. You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE. Dogs Trust are asking all ladies taking part in the VHi Women’s Mini Marathon 2016 to do so on behalf of #TeamDogsTrust – see www.dogstrust.ie for more information.
Gazette
18 Gazette 21 April 2016
OUT&ABOUT
Asos Public Desire Kat Grey Heeled Sock Boots €49.28
Topshop Hex Sock Fit Aankle Boots €98
Zara €65.95
Shade Adjusting Drops €17.00
A handy way to adjust the colour of your foundation The Body Shop have devised a handy way to adjust the colour of your foundation. The shade adjusting drops come in lightening and darkening shades so that foundation can be adjusted to suit your skin tone perfectly. This product will be particularly handy for those who tan in the summer and need a darker foundation while the tan lasts. They’re also a useful addition to any make-up bag for times when you forget your own foundation and need to borrow a friend’s, or if you just have bad luck selecting the right colour. Often, foundation can have that dreaded orange tinge on paler skin tones, the lightening drops use a con-
centration of white and pink pigments helps to lighten, while neutralising the yellowness of light-to-medium foundation shades. On darker skin tones, foundation can sometimes look too light or ashy. The darkening drops use a concentration of black and red pigments help to darken while keeping the natural depth of dark-to-deep foundation shades. One drop of the product will make a face worth of foundation either half a shade lighter or darker and it’s a great way to make an expensive bottle of foundation go a lot further and not go to waste if it isn’t exactly the right shade. At €17 each, the drops are available at the Body Shop.
Asos Public Desire Alexa Red Patent Sock Boots €46.46
River Island nude patent sock boot €95
There’s a new boot in town emma nolan
River Island brown leopard print velvet heeled ankle boots €60
Since ankle boots rose to prominence a number of years ago, they have stayed as the most worn female boot style. From Chelsea, to cut out, to bucked, chunky, pointed, Western you name it – ankle height is where it’s at and while it’s here to stay, the sock boot is the style that enchanted on the autumn winter runways and is now translating to the high street somewhat. The skintight style were spotted on the Givenchy runway and also featured in recent Dior and Dries Van Norten collections and have been seen on the street style elite since then. Topshop have begun to emulate the look with their sock fit and suede styles and River Island’s offering comes in nude, leopard print and black leather. It’s time to cover up those ankles and embrace the newest It Boot.
21 April 2016 Gazette 19
Gazette
STYLE
River Island Bursary winner William with Roz Purcell modelling his winning outfit
Templeogue’s William Shannon Doyle takes top fashion design bursary emma nolan
Asos Daisy Street Iridescent Sock Ankle Boots €49.28 Topshop Suede Sock Boots €110
River Island Black tie back heeled ankle boots €65 Topshop Magnificent Suede Sock Boots in tan €110
A 22-year-old Dublin fashion designer from Templeogue has the River Island 2016 Fashion design bursary. William Shannon Doyle was chosen to receive a €3,500 bursary and a paid threemonth internship in River Island’s design studio in London. This is the thirteenth year of the River Island Bursary which offers final year fashion design students at the National College of Art and Design the chance to win a paid, threemonth internship at the company’s design studio in London. T his year R iver Island asked the NCAD students to create a capsule collection for River Island Spring Summer 2016. The students then submitted portfolios of designs which were judged by River Island
Design Controller Lucy Moller, who was the 2006 winner of the Bursary. Speaking on the announcement, Lucy said: “The River Island Bursary launched my fashion career 10 years ago. “It is always so exciting to see new and exciting talent emerging. Our industry thrives on fresh ideas and it is so important to inject new energy and life into our design studio and creative teams. “We are delighted to be amongst the first to witness and embrace the emergence of some of Ireland’s brightest new stars in the fashion industry.” William’s winning design consisted of a red skirt with black detailing, black top and bomber jacket with a silk clutch bag that were inspired by 1950’s vintage where “functionality meets luxury”.
Gazette
20 Gazette 21 April 2016
OUT&ABOUT
fast
TRAVEL NEWS
TRAVEL
bargains: balmy breaks to leave you beaming
Yoga practitioners can take to sunnier climes without needing to strain their resources
Yoga getaways won’t stretch your budget ian begley
IF YOU struggle to find tranquillity and peace of mind in Ireland, you will be happy to know that Travel Department are holding a range of yoga retreats in Europe.
Lake Garda Yoga Holiday Recharge in Lake Garda, Italy. Nestled in the tranquillity of Garda Trentino’s olive groves and vineyards, Torbole is the perfect place for a yoga retreat. Your hotel is located in the midst of nature and enjoys the healthy climate of Lake Garda, while being a short stroll from the centre of Torbole and near the beautiful Riva del Garda. Yoga on this holiday will be led by Emma Burke Kennedy, one of Yoga Dublin Studios’ regular Vinyasa Flow yoga teachers. Twice-daily yoga sessions will be held in the mornings and evenings, which will be suited to all levels of yoga practitioners. Afternoons are free to spend at your leisure. Prices star t from € 72 9 p p , i n cl u d i n g return flights from Dublin, transfers, five nights’ B&B accommodation, eight yoga sessions with
an expert instructor, and a half-day Lake Garda boat excursion, with the flight departing on September 14.
The Algarve Yoga Holiday Soak up the Portuguese sun and indulge in a relaxing yoga retreat in the fabulous surroundings of the Algarve. Your base for five nights will be the Memmo Baleeira – set inside a nature park and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this contemporary hotel is a two-minute walk from the closest beach and a 13-minute walk from Sagres Point. Yoga on this holiday will also be led by Burke Kennedy. Twice-daily yoga sessions will be held in the mornings and evenings, which will be suited to all levels of yoga practitioners. Afternoons are free to spend at your leisure. Prices star t from € 79 9 p p , i n cl u d i n g return flights from Dublin, transfers, five nights’ half-board accommodation and eight yoga sessions with an expert instructor, with the flight departing on October 19. To find out more about these offers, and to book, see www.tdactive.ie.
A range of affordable holidays invite you to set off to a range of sun-kissed shores, with great deals currently available to stay in Torremolinos (main), Fuerteventura and Malta (right)
The sun is closer – and cheaper – than you think ian begley
Travel Editor
THE beaches of Europe have always been extremely popular with Irish holidaymakers, with the Algarve, Fuerteventura and Majorca remaining firm favourites for 2016. If you’re dreaming of a sunshine getaway, it’s closer and cheaper than you think. From only €189, you could spend a week lounging on a golden beach, soaking up the sunshine and letting life’s worries melt away. GoHop.ie have put together a list of sun holiday packages to some of the most popular destinations to help you escape reality and catch some rays this May.
Malta Spend seven nights
in Malta from €274pp. With return flights from Dublin airport on May 14, spend seven nights in a four-star accommodation on a self-catering basis. Located in the South of Europe in the heart of the Mediterranean Sea, Malta is a haven for those in search of tranquillity and relaxation. This beautiful island is relatively small in size; however, it undoubtedly delivers quality on all fronts. From buzzing nightlife, colourful festivals, delicious cuisines and spectacular, natural scenery, Malta is a compelling and exciting country. It comprises three separate islands, with the main one being Malta itself, followed closely by its counterparts, Gozo and Comino, which are
famous for their peaceful atmosphere and watersports facilities. As well as its yearround temperate climate, it is a country abundant with history and fascinating culture, with monuments such as Fort Rinella and the Church of St Mary being tourists’ favourites. However, no one can forget the iconic sanded beaches that cluster the area, and the all-around natural beauty that can be found in all areas of Malta.
Torremolinos Spend five nights in Torremolinos from €189pp. On May 16, fly to the Costa del Sol popular holiday resort and stay for five nights in three-star accommodation, on a self-catering basis.
Torremolinos is one of the most popular holiday resorts in the Costa del Sol. It is the perfect blend of a traditional fishing village and modern city. This holiday destination is home to several gorgeous beaches, leisure facilities, delicious food and much more. Summer is the most popular time to visit Torremolinos, so expect crowds. There is hardly any rainfall during the summer season, but temperatures can drop significantly in the evening; however, this is seen as a relief by most tourists.
Fuerteventura Spend seven nights in Fuerteventura from €293pp. On May 24, fly from Dublin to spend seven nights in three-star accommodation on a self-catering basis.
With the exciting Oasis Park, world-famous surfing, sun-soaked beaches, and a truly laid back atmosphere, Fuerteventura holidays are ideal for families, couples and groups. The best time to visit Fuerteventura would probably be from April to June, when the weather is gorgeous and the summer rush has yet to hit the island. Unwinding on a gorgeous beach, and with soft sands and warm, sparkling seas, and a dazzling backdrop of volcanic rock, you’ll soon discover why Fuerteventura beaches are renowned as being some of the finest in Europe. For the full holiday list of holiday offers from GoHop, see www.gohop.ie or call 01 241 2389.
21 April 2016 Gazette 21
eddie the eagle: britain’s plucky ski jumper gets an inspirational biopic
ReelReviews
Affectionately told underdog tale of a cool, if unlikely hero, wings it a bit
THERE must have been something in the air at the 1988 Winter Olympics. The event in Canada saw the world debut of Jamaica’s bobsleigh team – which of course became the basis for the plucky underdog classic, Cool Runnings. But a bigger star that year was Great Britain’s Michael “Eddie” Edwards – a ski-jumper who ecstatically took last place in the three jumps that he participated in. Retold with dollops of nostalgia and liberal helpings of Hollywood treatment, Eddie The Eagle (12A, 105mins) follows Eddie’s Olympic obsession from his early years. Growing up in Gloucestershire in the 70s, the young Eddie fawns over a treasured glossy almanac of the Games and becomes determined to become an Olympian. Undeterred by constrictive leg braces, a general lack of athletic prowess, and a tendency to injure himself, Eddie spends his childhood
Dave phillips
recreating the Olympic Games in the alleyways and fields of his neighbourhood. Fast forward several years and many pairs of broken glasses later, and the patience of Mum (Jo Hartley) and Dad (Keith Allen) is thinning as the now almost-adult Eddie (Kingsman’s Taron Egerton) refuses to settle down and get a job, and persists with his dream – or at least, a more nuanced version of it. Realising that despite his best efforts he may never qualify for any of the Olympic events, Eddie changes tack. A little research shows that Great Britain has had far fewer athletes compete in the Winter Olympics, and nobody has ever represented the country in Ski Jumping. So, with cogs set in
motion, Eddie sets out to fulfil his dream. There is no denying the fact that Eddie the Eagle is a straightforward and predictable underdog story, and it takes a little while to settle into the sappy, mawkish tone set by director Dexter Fletcher. Things are stepped up a notch when Eddie heads to train in Norway, and meets washed-up former jumper Bronson Peary (Hugh Jackman). Peary’s character – a hard-drinking former athlete who is bitter about his missed opportunities in life – adds a level of complexity to the story. And, while the story and roles remain pleasantly straightforward, the introduction of Jackman to the mix alongside Egerton brings a level of depth that is noticeably lacking in the film’s first act. Throw in some bullies to bypass, some officious snobbery from the committee, and a cameo from Christopher Walken, and you have more than
Gazette
CINEMA
the jungle book Go ape for this one
AN ALL-star cast add their weight to a wonderful retelling of The Jungle Book (Cert PG, 106 mins). Disney’s classic animation gets a modern reboot, with perfect animation bringing the jungle’s creatures to glorious life. While the likes of Bill Murray, Idris Elba and Scarlett Johansson add their voices, the luscious cinematography and action provide the centre of this enticing, bewitching film.
zootropolis
Disney’s roaring success Eddie, meet ‘Eddie’ ... The one and only Eddie “the Eagle” Edwards meeting Taron Egerton, portraying him in this warm-hearted film
FAMILIES have given their roar of approcal to Disney’s Zootropolis (Cert PG, 108 mins). The latest fully CG film for the studio takes a familiar cop trope – a fresh rookie trying to make their mark and solve a tough case, while teaming up with an unlikely ally – but creates something new and fresh. Warm-hearted, likeable performances add to the great design, making it a treat for audiences.
Trainer (Jackman) and jumper (Egerton) mentally prepare for the challenge
enough elements to help the story along through its almost two-hour running length. Eddie The Eagle, much like its subject matter, is a film that is clunky and ineffectual at times, but possesses something greater that causes its flaws to fade. D e x t e r F l e t c h e r ’s vision – which starts out so sickly sweet and overwrought with halcyon day sentimentality
– eventually transforms into a much more significant commentary on human potential. While the film never stops being light and whimsical, there is something in the story of a boy from Gloucestershire pursuing his dream at all costs that is endearing and undeniably heart-warming to watch. Just as films like Cool Runnings and The
Mighty Ducks captured an underdog spirit for a generation growing up in the 90s, Eddie The Eagle deserves to become an underdog classic for a new generation. The film is a guaranteed dose of feel-good vibes, and a reminder of that Olympian motto: the important thing in life is not to triumph but to compete.
Verdict: 7/10
the huntsman Snow thank you ...
THE Huntsman – Winter’s War (Cert 12A, 117mins) is the prequel to 2012’s lovely looking (but super dull) Snow White and The Huntsman. Charlize Theron is once again as cool as ice, while Emily Blunt and Chris Hemsworth gamely give their best. However, it’s once again all style, no substance, with a dreary heart that is likely to leave you even colder than Thereon’s Queen.
Gazette
22 Gazette 21 April 2016
OUT&ABOUT
GAMING
WEEBYTES RACHET & CLANK: THIS colourful REBOOT PROVIDES some PAWS FOR THOUGHT
The Samsung Gear VR
Praising the virtues of new tech Shane dillon
I’LL be taking quite a detailed look at virtual reality (VR) later this year, but for now, many readers will have already noticed the extensive advertising currently surrounding one of the first VR sets – the Samsung Gear VR headset, which has a price point aimed at a mass market (currently circa €249). It provides a pleasing, modestly-priced introduction to VR and, more importantly, it proves to the masses that VR works, and could wow as a new entertainment (or infotainment) format. You simply slot one of a number of Samsung phones (you can easily check for compatibility) into the front of the large but light headset, which is easily secured to the head, and can be adjusted. Then, by tilting or turning your head, the ‘screen’ (viewed a little as if through binoculars) changes the view to match, providing a great connection to the screen’s content – simply, it’s as though you’re really in that place you’re viewing, but you’re able to look all around you. While looking slightly pixelated, the tech is very impressive, and immersive, with Samsung likely to stay the forerunner in this exciting new tech sector for a while to come.
Cat-like Rachet and his pal, Clank, deliver an almost purrr-fect title
I REMEMBER Rachet & Clank (Cert 7, c. €35) when it first came out – in 2002 for the PlayStation 2. While the PS2 had no shortage of wannabe console icons (for a while, Crash Bandicoot was the face of the PS2), Rachet & Clank still stood out at the time. They were the stars of a lively platformer which saw the mismatched duo – an energetic catlike creature with aspirations to be a Space Ranger, and a diminutive but plucky no-nonsense robot pal that he found – team up to run around on several creatively rendered planets, with a host of wacky characters and even wackier weapons added to the mix. Simply, R&C, created by Insomniac Games, was a winning formula, and provided lots of fun in that first entry, and in many of the franchise’s additions afterwards. Flash forward to today, and Rachet & Clank are getting a full franchise
shane dillon sdillon@dublingazette.com
reboot, which has worked very well for a number of other games of old (sit down, Lara Croft – gamers know that the recent Tomb Raider reboot was particularly successful). To use the new game’s marketing tagline, it’s “the game based on the film based on the game”, seeing as the determined duo are also getting the big-screen treatment, with a film on the way very soon – making it perhaps perfect timing to get the hype machine going with this lively reboot and relaunch. At its basic level, Rachet & Clank goes back to its roots, to largely reimagine the very first game in the long-running franchise. (In fact, you’d need a third hand to count all
the entries in the longrunning series across the years.) However, it’s not a straightforward, beatfor-beat retelling of the original game and story, as it mixes things up a bit, adding in characters not seen until later entries in the franchise, and follows a slightly wayward story, thanks in part to its particularly unreliable narrator. Still, in essence, it’s classic Rachet & Clank – the pair once again travel around several planets, while a number of minigames, or changes to the game’s style, break up the action. Everything is presented with plenty of goofy jokes, sight gags, and an enthusiasm to provide plenty of fun always close to hand. Visually, the game’s a real winner, with terrific cinematics that indicate the quality of the upcoming film, but they’re just the icing on the cake – the game’s worlds and design are packed with detail.
Everything from the bustling cityscapes in part of the game to delicate light effects and material reflections all add up to help craft a very pretty title, making each world a joy to roam around, just taking in the sights. Not that gamers will be stopping for the views very much, as there’re a lot of bad guys to dispose of in each world, with plenty of weapons to do so. They deserve a special mention. When facing endless bad guys, Rachet and Clank have several weapons to use to even the playing field – with plenty of upgrades to make them ever more powerful. With weapons that, for example, turn enemies into placid sheep, or force them to start disco dancing, or even turn them into 2D ‘pixel’ versions of themselves, the game’s sense of silliness and lighthearted fun is always close to hand, even during some of the game’s
busier moments. However, while it perhaps stays a little too close to its overly familiar roots, that’s not a bad thing, as Rachet & Clank have delivered a great platformer for the PS4. Indeed, while the PS4 has tons of excellent games for older players, it’s a little less well served by games for younger players, or families – at least, based on what I’ve seen on the shelves around many Dublin shops at the moment, with more fam-
ily-friendly titles barely getting a look in. However, Rachet & Clank is likely to do very well, as despite its brevity – it’s not the longest, or biggest game in the world – it’s wonderful to look at, and is also lots of fun to play;. With its welcome delivery of a blast of family-friendly fun for the PS4 (or for any gamer who appreciates a wellcrafted title), Rachet & Clank is available this Friday, April 22.
Feline-feeling Rachet and his robot pal Clank (top) explore several colourful worlds, with plenty of silly Drawing on shared assets from the upcoming film about the duo, the game often looks fantastic
moments thanks to their creatively daft weapons
21 April 2016 Gazette 23
Gazette
MOTORING
Already an impressive lineage, the Corsa’s Opel Performance Centre edition is a winner on all fronts
opel corsa opc: power and a dash of perfection create this memorable motor
A high-performance model that’s certain to turn heads
dave phillips
THE new Corsa turned out to be one of our favourite cars to test last year, with the fifth-generation model – a solid drive that is full of pep – striking the right balance between fun and functionality. And, right on the heels of the regular release of Opel’s hot hatch was a very special OPC (Opel Performance Centre) edition that we had the pleasure of taking out this year. OPC editions are top of the line renditions of Opel models, pushing the cars to the maximum in terms of performance, engine technology, and design. With a 1.6-litre turbocharged engine, and Opel
claiming a top speed of 270kmph, there is no escaping the happy fact that the OPC Corsa is an out-and-out sports car. That said, it is a sports car that – if you were so inclined – you could also get away with nipping down to the shops in. Heads may turn if you do, as the test car we took out looked stunning. Decked out in Flash Blue (a colour unique to this OPC model), and sitting on 18-inch black alloys, the OPC Corsa builds on the model’s athletic look, and adds some extra flair with side sills, a rear roof spoiler, and a twin-pipe exhaust. The overall effect looks a breed apart from the traditional Corsa, boasting more of a mature and refined race-track look.
That polished aesthetic follows into the interior, where there is no souped-up, high-gloss sheen. Instead, things look clean, uncluttered, and sturdy. There is an elegant leather finish running across the heavy-stitched Recaro seats, the flat-bottomed racing wheel, and a short-throw gear lever. And that leather-clad lever, despite it being a small thing, is significant – the first thing you’ll notice are the specks of that vibrant OPC blue tastefully demarcating the gears. The second is the weight and robustness of it; this really feels like something that will stand the test of time and will still feel satisfyingly strong and firm 20 years
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‘The real selling point here lies under the bonnet ... the OPC Corsa is a machine that is built for highend performance. Every gear feels swift and powerful.’ --------------------------------------------------------
down the line. There is all the tech you can expect from the standard Corsa, with the simple to use IntelliLink system serving for entertainment and GPS demands. But, of course, the real selling point here lies under the bonnet. Getting to 100kmph in just 6.5 seconds (a statistic you won’t care to test, because it feels so evident), the OPC Corsa is a machine that is built for high-end performance.
Producing plenty of torque in lower revs, every gear in the OPC Corsa feels swift and powerful. The squat position (this model has dropped an extra 10mm since its last incarnation) and incredibly precise steering mean the car really hugs the road around bends and is a blast to drive in the open. The OPC Corsa starts at €29,995 (the model we tested with extras retails at €33,170) and falls into
Sturdy design elements are presented with luxurious touches, creating a cabin that feels robustly upmarket
the E tax band (€750), so this is going to be a car that will only ever appeal to a niche group of buyers – but for those in the
market, this is a stunning piece of work that feels like it still be humming smoothly a generation from now.
Gazette
24 blanch gazette 21 April 2016
OUT&ABOUT
Railing against all the Luas strikes affecting Dubliners
driver’s job is so simple in comparison, yet they’re making so much.
IN OUR vox pop, we sent our reporters out on two successive days to ask a random selection of people in the street about the ongoing Luas stoppages. Remarkably, having spoken to up to 50 people on and off the record, not one supported the union’s stance on this issue. Our reporters, Ian Begley and Emma Nolan, asked each respondent these two questions: “Do you support the Luas strikers’ action? Will you be affected by any more industrial action?” This is what they had to say ... their scope to get that amount.
doing. It’s a great service, but if they get away with it, it opens a can of worms for any other people to go on strike.
EDEL HOGAN
Luas drivers, I think it will have a knock-on effect. All the others will start making noises and I’m not sure the country can afford the kind of increases they’re looking for.
Emily Graham
I’M FROM the US and we don’t have strikes like this. I believe everyone has the right to strike, but I just think that it’s a little outrageous to ask for about a 40% increase when they’re already earning so much
Josephine
Litchfield
I’M HALF and half. I just think, especially over the Easter Weekend, they sort of held the country to ransom – they knew it would be a busy weekend for tourism, and that kind of thing. They knew what they were getting into when they signed up for their job – the difficult hours and having to work bank holidays. My own husband is a taxi driver, and he works unsocial hours as well. So, in a way, I’m 90% against what they’re
JIM WALSH
I DON’T support the drivers, because I think they’re reasonably well paid as it is. I think they’re looking for the same wages as train drivers, who have more responsibility. I will be disrupted by further strike action – I use it to get out to Sandyford, and it’s hard to get out there without the Luas.
I USE the Luas rarely to get into town, so it doesn’t affect me that much, but I do not support the drivers’ strike. Number one – I think they really did terrible damage to themselves on the Easter weekend, but I just think they should have gone into it better with their eyes open. Number two – I actually don’t blame the drivers, I blame the union. I think they should have taken more responsibility and realised that it was way beyond
pat cryan
I FIND it very disruptive, and the demands being made by the drivers are insane. The prospects into the future seem pretty dire, because their seems to be no middle ground or settlement on the horizon. T he strikes won’t affect me as much, because I’m retired, but we always use the Luas – we never take the car into town – so it would affect us, in that sense. Also, I think if the company give into the
Elaine Moriarty
I DON’T support them, because I work in Tallaght and have to get the first Luas. They always stop at the Red Cow for about 10 minutes in the morning, nearly making us all late. A junior doctor only starts on €31K a year, and gardai are at €23K when they start – the Luas
started off at a lower rate and built up from there, whereas, because they publicised the 53%, I think everyone is against them because of that, unless you’re related to one of the drivers. Student doctors and nurses are getting paid less, and I don’t agree with that concept.
PAUL MORAN
I DON’T support the Luas drivers. If they wanted a small increase, then fair enough, but I don’t agree with the whole 53% thing – I just think it’s greedy. T hey should have
Aine O’Dwyer
I THINK a certain amount of it is okay, but some of the days they’ve been striking on – like during the Easter weekend and the Centenary celebrations – were a bit ridiculous, because it was a once in a century event and they caused a lot of hassle for people trying to get in and out of town. I also think the amount of a raise they’re looking for is a bit over the top, because compared to some other professions, they don’t have to do much training. I’ll be affected by further strikes because I won’t be able to get to Heuston Station to get the train home.
21 April 2016 blanch gazette 25
--------------------------
‘Everyone deserves to be heard, I guess’
--------------------------
Michelle Horan
I THINK the whole thing is a disgrace. It’s terrible that they’re holding the public to ransom, because so many people depend on its service. I think it’s gone on for too long, and to strike on Easter Sunday didn’t do them any favours. A lot of people with no income at all have to survive, so why can’t they get by with what they’re on?
Jonathan
Richardson
MY OPINION from what I heard is that junior doctors and nurses are working twice as long for half the money, yet the Luas drivers only do what they do – sit there and drive the Luas, and they’re looking for a 50% hike? I’ll be disrupted by further strike action and will have to walk, so it’s a bit mad, y’know.
Luas commuters who The Gazette spoke to were united with the same criticisms of the Luas drivers, their pay demands, and their union’s tactics
Gazette
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21 April 2016 blanch Gazette 27
blanchCLASSIFIEDS
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28 blanch gazette 21 April 2016
SPORT
FastSport Shelbourne sign former Ireland star: SHELBOURNE FC have signed former Irish international Stephen Elliott until the end of the season, subject to international clearance. The Dubliner played his early football with Belvedere FC and Stella Maris before signing for Manchester City in 2004. He later moved to Sunderland, where he worked under Mick McCarthy. The striker then followed McCarthy to Wolverhampton Wanderers before spells with Preston North End, Norwich City, Coventry City, Hearts and, most recently, Carlisle United. He ruptured his Achilles tendon while playing for Carlisle back in October 2014 and underwent surgery. The 32-year-old represented the senior Ireland team on nine occasions, scoring once: the winning goal in a 1-0 World Cup qualifying victory against Cyprus in 2005.
soccer: over 1,300 students take part in Primary school festival
Ringsend abuzz for cup finale sport@dublingazette.com
IRISHTOWN Stadium played host to the Dublin county finals of the SPAR FAI Primary School 5s Programme, the culmination of a programme that saw 1,376 students take
part. Indeed, 272 students from 34 schools played in the Dublin finals where just six schools earned progression to the provincial finals. The A Cup, open to boys and/or mixed
St Damian’s celebrate. Pictures: James Crombie/Inpho
teams, had 10 highly competitive schools with the final between the impressive St Joseph’s, East Wall and Our Lady of the Wayside, Bluebell. It proved a thrilling encounter with St Joseph’s, East Wall winning out in the end. The B Cup also proved to be a tense affair with four teams involved in this division. Mary Queen of Angels, Ballyfermot emerged on top with Taney Parish NS a close second. The C Cup was another hard fought contest between four passionate schools. St Mark’s from Springfield in Tallaght eventually came out on top ahead of St Molaga’s, Balbriggan, St
Mary Queen of Angels, Ballyfermotcelebrate their success
Benedict’s, Ongar and St Colmcille’s, Knocklyon. On the girls side, St D a m i a n ’s , Wa l k i n s town emerged victorious from eight participating schools in the A Cup, catering for small schools. They were too good for Scoil Treasa Naofa in the final. Gaelscoil Cholmcille came out on top in the B Cup ahead of St Patrick’s, Chapelizod while Our Lady of Good Counsel GNS, Johnstown sealed qualification in the girls C Cup for large schools, overtaking St Vincent de Paul Girls’ school in the final game. The girls division has continued to grow over the past number of years
with almost 500 students taking part in the Dublin competition. T he winners from each division will now progress to the Leinster finals on April 28 in Navan. The SPAR FAI Primary School 5s competition has been in existence since the mid 1990s and saw nearly 20,000 par ticipants from 1,069 schools involved last season. The competition is run across six divisions, ensuring that schools of all sizes are catered for. Depending on their size, a school can enter several teams into the competition. Boys and girls are encouraged to play together but there is
a separate competition for boys and girls dependent on school enrolment numbers. Fergus McDaid, secretary of FAI Schools stated: “T his is our second year with title sponsors SPAR and the competition is expanding year on year. The support shown by Spar ensured this grassroots initiative really supports Dublin’s local talent. “The event encourages children to become involved in soccer at an early age and emphasises the fun aspect of the sport. FAI Schools are delighted to be hosting the finals on Wednesday, May 11 in Aviva Stadium, something which the children will relish I’m sure.”
Clohisey leads Raheny to national road relays success sport@dublingazette.com
Raheny’s Mick Clohisey, Kieran Kelly, Mark Kirwan and Daire Bermingham. Picture: Tomas Greally /Sportsfile
RAHENY Shamrocks won their first senior men’s title in five years at the GloHealth National Road Relays on home soil last weekend in perfect running conditions in the north Dublin suburb. They greeted 33 clubs and over 80 teams on an excellent day of racing. The masters’ women (O-35 and O-50) got racing underway at 2pm and it was Sli Cualann were first to strike gold in the four-mile relay (1-2-1 mile legs)
in the O-35 section with 23.19. The F50 Raheny Shamrock women took top honours in 27.30. There was a great finish to the masters’ men’s O-35 race with Donore Harriers just holding off Rathfarnham WSAF in the final one-mile leg of the four-mile relay in 19.34 to 19.36. Mick Traynor led Raheny Shamrock’s M50 team to a comfortable win in 20.25. Leevale AC retained their women’s title in convincing style. Carol Finn got Leevale’s ladies off to a good start with a
5.11 opening mile leg, handing over to Lizzie Lee, who extended their advantage with a 10.38 two-mile leg. Next up was Michelle Finn, who took Leevale to victory with a 5.01 leg, giving them a 31-second winning margin over Crusaders, who edged Sli Cualann for second. In the men’s race, a recordbreaking three-mile leg from Raheny’s Mick Clohisey of 14.04 proved pivotal in helping them to gold for the first time in five years, with Mark Kirwan, Kieran Kelly and Daire Ber-
mingham also playing their part. Raheny came home 18 seconds clear of Ennis Track, who held off Kilkenny City Harriers for second. John Travers of Donore Harriers equalled Clohisey’s record on the three-mile leg, helping his team to fifth. Meanwhile in Santry at the Irish Universities Championships, DCU again took victory in both men’s and women’s team events, their tallies of 178 points in the men’s and 156.5 in the women’s more than double that of their closest challengers.
21 April 2016 blanch gazette 29
Gazette
Bullish Bastick keen on more league glory
FastSport
Templeogue Synge Street midfielder talks about the fun of being part of a Dublin side in the midst of an incredible winning run in the national league ahead of Kerry final date Top line-up confirmed james hendicott
sport@dublingazette.com
HAVING already sold a substantial 50,000 tickets, with the promise of a 3,500-participant Easter Rising centenary event and the small matter of two league finals to play out, the finale of this year’s early-season GAA action is arguably the best prospect it has been in years. With Dublin and Kerry – the two main contenders for All-Ireland glory come September – facing off for the first time in a league final since 1987, however, the good natured ribbing between Dublin’s Denis Bastick and Kerry’s Bryan Sheehan can’t hide the edge to a final that has none
of the league’s usual early-season indifference. As Bastick and Sheehan sit next to each other in Croke Park a few days ahead of kick off, they both admit to an added “bite” to this particular fixture, with Dublin keen to maintain their astonishing run of 21 games undefeated in league and championship, and Kerry out for post-All Ireland revenge. “There’s a lot to be said for momentum,” B a s t i c k t h r ow s o u t cheekily when asked about the Dubs’ winning streak. “We still go by the same old cliche, though. It really is one game at a time. “Winning becomes a habit, and that’s the place we’re in now. But
we’re always trying to get better.” Dublin’s attempts to get better have been fairly evident throughout their undefeated league season, in fact, not least in the capital side’s use of 35 different players over the course of the eight games that have taken them to the final. With young star Jack McCaffrey out injured, Ror y O’Carroll New Zealand-bound and Alan Brogan having hung up his boots before it all got underway, the experimentation has been substantial. While Bastick jokes that the side have “not at all” missed them so far, he is keen to talk up the parade of youngsters battering down Jim
Denis Bastick will be hoping that the league can be a launchpad to another push for the All-Ireland senior championship title. Picture: Stephen McCarthy/ Sportsfile
Gavin’s door in search of a regular first team shirt. “T hey’re tough to catch in training,” the Te m p l e o g u e S y n g e Street midfielder says of the newcomers. “It’s really unfair to single any of them out. I think it’s important for the younger guys to continue on. They’re a real
explained. “We upped it a bit. But we were expecting things to be tough. “We each try to step up to the plate,” he adds. “We have a great panel, and we’re going to need every one of them to step up at some point this season. “We know they will be big challenges to come.”
--------------------------------------------------------
‘We’ll have fun now because that is what the GAA is all about but on Sunday it will be all business’ - Denis Bastick
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bonus.” Both Dublin and Kerry made light work of their semi-final opponents on the way to the league’s big night. Kerry brushed aside Roscommon, while the Dublin rematch with Donegal – a game given extra edge by the gritty nature of the league contest just two weeks before – proved far from an even contest. “The league game was tough, so it did surprise us a bit to win by the score we did,” Bastick said of the semi, which saw a Dubs side that made 11 changes and took to the field without the influential Cian O’Sullivan batter the Ulster side 1-20 to 0-13. “We did our homework, tweaked things around and improved a few things,” Bastick
Kerry are clearly up for things, too. Bastick declined to comment on the idea that Kerry might be more motivated, laughing as he did so, while Sheehan admitted his side were “still very hurt by losing the [2015] All Ireland final. It would be very nice to beat Dublin, especially when there’s silverware up for grabs.” As for the good-natured approach to the game? “It’s always been fair between us,” Bastick says of Sheehan. “It’s generally good natured, shoulder to shoulder. We’ll have fun now, because that’s what the GAA is all about, but once we cross the line on Sunday it’s all business. That’ll be a different story.”
for Dublin 7s tournament IRELAND’S premier rugby 7s competition, the Dublin 7s Festival, has announced further details of its impressive line-up with seven teams travelling from foreign shores to take part in the event. It will feature the national sides of Italy, Germany, Jamaica and Norway as well as the Samurai international team and European heavyweight clubs; Ulster, Biarritz and London Wasps. Tough opposition can be expected from the Samurai International team who have become known for their eye catching kit and display sublime skills as well as the Italian national side who are ranked in the top 15 in the world. Two-time European Cup winners, London Wasps, and Rio 2016 hopefuls, Jamaica and Germany, add plenty of fire power to the line-up and the power and skill of Ulster, Biarritz and team Norway are sure to entertain and thrill in equal measures. The festival will also boast a domestic competition with current AIL Champions, Lansdowne FC among the favourites. Old Belvedere, UCD, Trinity College, St Mary’s, Bective Rangers, Blackrock College and Old Wesley will have other ideas as they look to display their class in the fast paced 7s format. Alongside the on field spectacle, spectators of all ages can enjoy live music, festival favourite DJ sets, a family fun zone, artisan food stalls and for the adults, a craft beer zone featuring some of Ireland’s top brewers. Speaking about the team announcements, organiser Brian McDermott commented: “Some of the most talented and exciting teams in the world have confirmed for the Dublin 7s Festival and the addition of Samurai International and the Jamaican national team only adds to the excitement. “It’s more than just rugby, we’ve gathered the best in music, food, family entertainment and craft beer. Whether you’re a rugby fanatic or just learning about the game we have you covered.” Tickets start at €15 for general admission and are available at www.dublin7sfestival.ie. VIP and corporate hospitality packages are available on request.
Gazette
30 BLANCH gazette 21 April 2016
SPORT
FastSport
soccer: castlekock celtc under-13s see off finglas celtic
Mochta’s continue top form in LSL Division 2 ST MOCHTA’S maintained their lead at the top of Leinster Senior League Division 2 when they came from a goal behind to beat relegation-threatened Ratoath Harps 4-2 at Porterstown Road. The table-toppers were without manager Brian Flynn but rallied in the presence of the veteran John O’Leary Senior, as goals from Aaron O’Brien and Wayne Fay added to by a brace from second half substitute Dylan Sweeney, extended the club’s unbeaten streak to eight games. Speaking after the game, stand-in manager O’Leary professed that this season had been very successful for the Saints thus far, explaining that they were well-placed at the summit of Division Two to push for the title. “We are delighted with that, we are in a very good position”, he said. “Sixteen games played, 38 points on the board, 60 goals scored and only 22 goals conceded - it’s not a bad position to be in. “It’s not an easy league, but hard work, fitness and taking our chances has got us to where we are today.” Mochta’s went behind, however, following a gilt-edged miss from midfielder Keith Hall through on goal. The deadlock was broken minutes later when Saints goalkeeper Adam Ignaciak was beaten following a 40 yard free-kick into the box from Ratoath. But it was 1-1 after 33 minutes when Mark Sheridan instrumentally found striker John O’Leary. O’Leary set up O’Brien who equalised with a tidy finish. The introduction of Dylan Sweeney at half-time acted as the catalyst to his side’s eventual victory. Firstly, he headed home Hall’s cross into the box after 65 minutes before getting a second after David Bellow’s header looked to have crossed the goal-line – however Sweeney smashed the effort over the line to make sure. A limp consolation goal brought some deserved respectability to Ratoath’s performance before late substitute Wayne Fay got his eighth goal of the season to wrap up the three points as 4-2 victors.
Castleknock Celtic’s Under-13 Major team reached the final of the Paul McGrath Cup
Hogan the king of Castle sport@dublingazette.com
CASTLEKNOCK Celtic’s Under-13 Major side edged out Finglas Celtic to reach the final of the Paul McGrath Cup at Kildonan Road, earning the hoops a third cup final in four seasons. Sean Hogan was to play a lone striker’s role up front having been moved from his usual right midfield position and it was his performance that was to prove the difference in this game. Castleknock went 1-0 up after 15 minutes when he latched onto a fantastic cross from Shane Duggan. Five minutes
later, a defining moment saw Finglas reduced to 10 men when their midfielder was sent off for violent conduct. Finglas levelled the game with a penalty following a hand ball in the box. Stephen Mason dived the right way but the ball just eluded him. Twenty minutes from time, however, Hogan was again on target with a fine finish from a pass by Adam Russell. Finglas had a number of shots on target while Castleknock had their own chances but the visitors held out and booked themselves a place in the final in the first fortnight
bowls open day Westmanstown welcomes all to try out their sport westmanstown Bowls Club will host their annual open day on Sunday, April 24 from 2pm to 6pm. All are welcome to the club, located at Westmanstown Sports Centre in Clonsilla, at any time during these four hours to enjoy free bowling, with the bowls and other equipment provided. You can just turn up on the day or contact one of the club captains in advance, they are: Pat Wall on 086 8150043 and Josephine Lennon on 087 2301209.
in May. In the Under-14 Major Harman Cup semi-final, Celtic took on Tolka Rovers. Celtic got off to an inauspicious start when they conceded an own goal. They fought hard to get the equaliser, but it remained 1-0 to Tolka at half time. Despite Castleknock dominating the second half, it was Tolka who struck the decisive next blow. With 20 minutes left the home side broke with a long ball to their striker who was clearly offside but still showed composure by lifting the ball over the advancing Celtic keeper Tommy Bowe.
Celtic, to their credit, gamely stuck to their task but Tolka ran out winners to earn themselves a place in the cup final. Elsewhere, Cetlic also came out on top in the Under-13s Joe O’Leary Cup semi-final thanks to a solid team performance. The playing surface was a credit to hosts Sacred Heart FC, which suited Dino Dervisic and Brendan Stangu in midfield. The breakthrough goal came when Fabian Wolski coolly finished. Then, just before half time, an excellent delivery by Dervisic set up Scott Doyle who finished clinically to
give his side a 2-0 advantage at half time. In the second half, Sacred Heart grew stronger, and it was a great relief for Celtic to see Great Imole tuck a clever left foot finish into the net after another assist from Dervisic, which means a second Cup finalist for Celtic in the DDSL Cups in May. ** On a ver y sad note, Castleknock Celtic wishes to extend its sincere sympathies to Philip Zambra whose Dad Peter passed away recently. Our thoughts and prayers are with all the Zambras at this very sad time.
21 April 2016 BLANCH gazette 31
Gazette
special audience
Delaney and Deegan offer unique insight
Club Noticeboard st brigid’s
castleknock, in association with Brooks
Group builders merchants, hosted special guest JJ Delaney, a nine-time All-Ireland hurling winner with Kilkenny, and All-Ireland football winning player and selector Mick Deegan in the Carpenter recently. They treated the audience to some war stories, insights on achieving sporting success and a preview of the upcoming GAA championship with host Kevin Mallon.
hurling: somerton side go distance in the feile
CONGRATULATIONS to Eoin Kennedy
The next outing for the St.Brigid’s
and Carl Browne on reaching the All-
77 golf society is on May 14 in Palm-
Ireland handball doubles final. A riv-
erstown House Golf Club. For further
eting final is expected in Kilkenny this
information, see club website or con-
weekend and tickets for the game will
tact Neill Plunkett on 086 8891789. All
be on sale through the GAA handball
new members and guests are very
website. Best of luck to Eoin and Carl.
welcome.
The Dublin GAA adult championships
The lotto jackpot carries over at
kick off with our senior hurlers in Par-
€15,000 for this week’s lotto draw in
nell Park this Thursday. See all St Brig-
The Vineyard on Thursday, April 21. The
ids’ fixtures – hurling and football, on
reserve jackpot rises to €14,600. Make
our club website: www.stbrigidsgaa.
sure to have your tickets in the draw,
com Best of luck to all our teams.
or you can purchase on-line via our
The St Brigid’s nursery runs every
website: www.stbrigidsgaa.com.
Saturday in Russell Park from 9.30am
Tesco Maple Centre (at the bottom
to 11am. We welcome all four- to sev-
of the Navan Road) has included St
en-year-olds in the Castleknock and
Brigid’s as one of the beneficiaries of
Blanchardstown area and new mem-
their Community Fund.
bers and families are always welcome.
All proceeds raised will help our
For further information and queries
Feile teams to purchase jerseys and
contact David on 085 8340169.
other gear.
castleknock A VERY dramatic weekend for the club
Congrats to Rob Shaw who stared
saw our brilliant U-14 hurlers just
as the Dublin minors defeated Offaly
pipped by Lucan in the Division 1 final
in the Leinster championship. Best
after extra time. Our Division 5 team
wishes to Ciaran and the Dubs in the
also gave a great account of them-
National League Final on Sunday.
selves.
Castleknock on the attack in last Sunday’s Feile final in Parnell Park. Picture: Niall O’Connell
Lucan’s late Power surge denies Knock
feile div one final Lucan Sarsfields 3-15 Castleknock 4-6 sport@dublingazette.com
THE FEILE title proved just out of Castleknock’s grasp as Lucan Sarsfields showed the extra turn of speed in extra time to eventually win out 3-15 to 4-6, capping a superb weekend of hurling with a suitably epic final in Parnell Park. In a tie of wildly swinging fortunes, Knock got off to the best possible start as Conor Murray’s early goal, cleverly dispatched from a rebound, was followed soon after
by a well pointed free. Lucan replied with four unanswered points with Evin Dowling to the fore. Lucan’s Eoin Power rifled the sliotar to the top of the Somerton side’s net before Colm Walsh and Charlie Keher followed up with two points from play to wrest back the initiative but Luke Swan’s first goal closed the gap, 1-7 to 2-1 in Lucan’s favour heading into the break. The team in blue and yellow piled on the pressure in the second half and registered an additional two goals – via Swan and Ruairi Deehan – and two points in quick succession
to swing the pendulum back against Sarsfields who suddenly were trailing by five points. Ryan began the fightback with a point before two more were added by Dowling and Charlie Keher. But they still needed something special and it came when Colm Walsh stepped up to take a free close to goal. Facing a Castleknock goalmouth with six defenders evenly lined across, he proceeded to drive the ball with topspin to the roof of the net. Another free earned from the resulting puck-
out cleared the black spot of the crossbar to bring Lucan into a one-point lead but Castleknock rallied to clip one over with a nerveless free to earn an extra time chance. But Lucan took the initiative in the opening half with Eoin Power rattling the sliotar into the bottom corner of the net. Castleknock began the second half the brighter and, aided by a slight wind, lowered their deficit with a pointed score. It was to be their last, however, as Lucan drove at their opponents relentlessly to tag on four late points.
Sincere thanks to all involved with
The club is extremely proud of all our
the production of The Playboy of the
U-14 hurlers who represented the club
Western World by the brilliant Drao-
with great skill, passion and pride. Well
icht Drama Group in CCC.
done to all involved. Congrats to Lucan
The annual Race Nite takes place
and sincere thanks to Boden and Per-
on April 29 (please note date change)
egrine’s for their great hospitality
in Kavanagh’s. Super way to start the
The Division 1 footballers had a hard
Bank Holiday and it takes place after
fought win over Plunkett’s in Somer-
the senior football championship
ton and also well done to all our adult
game v Plunketts in Parnell Park. See
footballers who had a very productive
the website for sponsorship oppor-
weekend.
tunities.
Next weekend is the hurling champi-
Our nursery (thanks to Tiger
onship and our seniors play Barrog in
Childcare) take place on Saturday in
Somerton on Saturday at 6pm. Please
Somerton (beside Castleknock Hotel)
support all our hurlers next weekend.
starting at 10am.
erin go bragh HARD luck to or hurling feile team who
Our adult camogie team is looking
just missd ot on a semi final spot at the
for coaches; contact Jason on 086
weekend. Well done to the lads who did
3541146. Adult camogie training con-
the club proud.
tinues every Monday and Wednesday
It was another busy weekend for our underage teams. Well done to all. Hard luck to the St Catherine’s U-16 hurlers. Well done to our U-8, 9 and 10 girls at
from 8-9pm in Ongar Community Centre. Gaelic for mothers and others continues Tuesdays and Thursdays in 2016. Contact Ciara on 087 9147154.
the weekend. Our U-10 girls are look-
Adult hurling and football training
ing for new players. Call Ronan on 086
continues. Our men’s adult teams are
8066614. Well done to our U-15 camogie
always looking for players. Anyone
team.
interested in playing football can call
Hard luck to our junior camogie
George on 087 9709795. Anyone inter-
team who narrowly lost to Naomh
ested in playing hurling can contact
Barrog. Well done to our U-17 ladies
Karl on 087 2352074. Hard luck to our
football team and our gaelic for moth-
junior footballers against Man O’ War
ers and others who won their games.
on Sunday in the league.
GazetteSPORT all of your blanch sports coverage from page 28-31
celtic warriors: Castleknock and Finglas lock horns in important DDSL Under-13 contest P30
april 21-27, 2016
primary super stars: Ringsend abuzz for Dublin schools finals day P28
Eoin Kennedy is looking to add to his astonishing total of 29 All-Ireland titles
Brigid’s final showdown Eoin Kennedy and Carl Browne bidding to add small court handball title to the 60x30 All-Ireland crown following superb semi-final fightback sport@dublingazette.com
LAST October, St Brigid’s Carl Browne partnered Eoin Kennedy to win an outstanding 60x30 Doubles final. It was Browne’s first senior title while Kennedy over a senior playing career spanning almost 14 years has accumulated an astonishing 29 senior titles between singles and doubles and all three codes of handball, 60x30 softball and hardball and the 40x20 international code. After a winter break the St Brigid’s players are again on the march towards further titles judging by their recent performances. Last Saturday, the pair showed that following their 60x30 victory they remain competitive in the so-called small 40x20 court.
After a tough campaign in Leinster where they overcame the Kilkenny pairing of Ciaran Neary and Brendan Burke in the Leinster final, they had a terrific victory last weekend in the 2016 All-Ireland semi-final overcoming Mayo’s Vinnie Moran and Joe McCann over three games. The match was played at the O’Loughlin’s venue in Kilkenny and the crowd were treated to a very competitive match. The Dublin pair started off very slowly and the Mayo players took full advantage leading from the beginning, gradually drawing further ahead to what seemed an impregnable lead of 21-5. The St Brigid’s players could have let the first game go but instead they fought for every point. By changing their serves and
cutting out unforced errors they began a terrific come-back. As the Dublin players gained in confidence, the Mayo pair started feeling the pressure and began to make mistakes. To the astonishment of the crowd the score was brought back to 18-20 with Dublin gaining 13 of those points in a single hand. The Mayo pair then had some luck as they put the Dublin pair out and Joe McCann delivered an unretrievable crotch serve to the bottom of the sidewall to give them a narrow 21-18 first game. It was clear, however, that the momentum of the match had changed very significantly. This was proved early in the second game as the Dublin pair gradually gained the upper
hand and after a tense tussle in the middle of the game, they drew the match at one game all on a 21-13 scoreline. During the break before the third and decisive game, the Dublin pair reminded each other of the October 2015 final when they also had to come back after a first game loss to win in the third. This turned out to be the case again as the Dublin players dominated the third with their superior fitness coming to the fore and with both executing perfect kill and passing shots. The final score of 21-5 in the third reflected the dominance of the Dublin pair. This fine result means that on Saturday they will meet Cavan’s Paul Brady and Michael Finnegan in the All-Ireland final, again at the Kilkenny O’Loughlin’s venue.