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BOY, OH BOY: Penneys impresses with its range for men in its Autumn/Winter collection P20
July 7-13, 2016
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Gazette BLANCH
BOY, OH BOY: Penneys impresses with its range for men in its Autumn/Winter collection P20
Rising star wins first New Ireland Player of the Month award
July 7-13, 2016
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Locals pour scorn over plan for Brady’s pub site
New IPAV boss slams greedy Castleknock residents property funds Business, P14
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highlight concerns over proposal to build four-storey apartments A DVERT ISEMENT
ian begley
A PROPOSAL to demolish Brady’s pub in Castleknock and replace it with four-storey apartments has been met with widespread opposition. T he planning appli-
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cation submitted by Absainte Limited proposes 41 two- and three-bed apartments, four distinct apar tment blocks, 69 underground car parking spaces, and a new vehicular entrance from the Old Navan Road.
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Local residents raised their concerns, claiming that the proposed development is “completely out of keeping” with the two-storey homes in the estates that surround it. At its maximum height, the apartment block
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would be four stories high, which residents say will overshadow their houses, block natural light from entering their gardens, and infringe their privacy. Full Story on Page 7
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4 BLANCH Gazette 7 July 2016
MULHUDDART | RIVER WORKS TO END INUNDATION PROBLEMS
Proposed €30m flooding prevention plan looks set to be the Tolka the town
IAN BEGLEY PLANS for a new project on the River Tolka to control flooding in the Mulhuddart area is underway — but local minister Leo Varadkar is seeking assurance that Tolka Valley Park will be fully reinstated. Plans are being drawn up to prevent uncontrolled overflows into the River Tolka, which has previously caused f looding in Mulhuddart. Initial site investigation works are starting along a proposed sewer route under the Blan-
chardstown Regional Drainage Scheme. If the site investigation is successful, there are plans to invest more than €30 million to develop 3.2km of pipeline, underground storage tanks to increase capacity in the network, and a new pumping station and a control building. Wastewater Minister Varadkar told The Gazette this week: “The works are designed to put an end to flooding in Mulhuddart, which has been caused by a lack of wastewater capacity in the area.
“I am seeking an assurance that access to the Tolka Valley Park will be maintained during the works and that it will be fully reinstated.” The River Tolka is one of the capital’s three main rivers (the others being the Liffey, and the Dodder), and it is the second largest river in Dublin. Rising in Co Meath, t h e To l k a p a s s e s through Drumcondra and enters Dublin Bay between East Wall and Clontarf. Along its route lie a number parks, like Tolka Valley Park, and the Botanic Gardens.
Flooding has caused havoc in Dublin 15 in recent years
FastNews
Esk’ is best for members of Chinese Gospel Church
THE Chinese Gospel Church of Dublin will continue to use Esker House as a place of worship after receiving planning permission from South Dublin County Council. The church was initially granted permission to carry out works at the site in 2011, which included proposals for a single storey retreat house with ancillary accommodation located in the annex. Works included essential repairs such as: woodworm, wet rot and damp treatment, refurbished roof timbers, valley gutters, rainwater goods, staircase, new heating and electrical services. It also included the introduction of a new partition and door-set to provide a minor hall and pastoral office within the old study and complete redecoration of internal rooms. However, due to lack of funds, the conversion of stables to classrooms and the conversion of Esker House to a retreat centre have yet to be completed.
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7 July 2016 BLANCH Gazette 5
Blanchardstown | conclusion of Ramadan Ian Begley
Imam Dr Umar Al-Qadri with Cllr Roderic O’Gorman Pictures: Imam Dr Umar Al-Qadri/Facebook
FASTING Irish Muslims broke bread with members of the LGBT community as they celebrated the conclusion of Ramadan in Blanchardstown at the weekend. The Irish Muslim Peace & Integration Council invited a host of people from outside their faith to share in the spirit of the holy holiday last Saturday at the Islamic Cultural Centre in Coolmine. Ramadan is observed by Muslims worldwide, where participants must refrain from eating, drinking, smoking, and other pleasures until nightfall. The shared Iftar dinner - the evening meal where Muslims end their daily fast - was also attended by Jewish holocaust survivorTomi Reichental, who was a guest speaker at the event. Imam Dr Umar Al-Qadri invited members of the LGBT community to the meal as he believes that discrimination against gay and transgender people is similar to what some Muslims experience. He said: “As more than one billion Muslims worldwide celebrate Ramadan
Muslims invite LGBT community to meal
The Irish Muslim Peace & Integration Council invited a host of people from outside their faith to share in the spirit of the holy holiday
The Imam with holocaust survivor Tomi Reichental
by fasting and appreciating the blessings given to us it is equally important for the Irish Muslim community to reach out to our neighbours as an example of true Islamic ideals. “The attack in Orlando targeted the LGBT community who have been marginalised throughout the world just because of their orientation. As Muslims, we are minorities in this country and the LGBT members are minorities as well. “We have our own views on homosexuality. We respect these individuals as any other human being and they have every right to be respected. It’s like as Muslims we don’t consume alcohol, but that doesn’t mean we can’t have friends that drink alcohol.” Cllr Roderic O’Gorman (GP), who is openly gay, was one of the guests at the Iftar and said he was very pleased to see the Irish Muslim Peace & Integration Council reach out to the LGBT community. “I was very impressed with how it went and I thought it was very nice gesture. I’ve never been at an Iftar before and I thought it was a real example of somebody trying to break down barriers. I think actions speak louder than words and feel like other members of the LGBT community were made to feel very welcome.” Although admitting he does not agree with some of Islamic values, Cllr O’Gorman added that he still respects Umar Al-Qadri reaching out to people with different values to his own.
6 BLANCH Gazette 7 July 2016
courts | men argued outside store over personal space
Man avoids jail for assaulting shopper who ‘got too close’ A Meath man has received a suspended sentence for assaulting a man at Hartstown Shopping Centre over a row over personal space. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that Mark Donohoe used a knife to attack Alan McIllroy in self-defence but pleaded guilty to the offence on the basis that his actions were excessive. Donohoe (40) of Oakway, Johnstown, Navan, Co Meath pleaded guilty to assault causing harm at Eurospar, Hartstown
Shopping Centre, Dublin on September 2, 2013. The court heard that Donohoe was queueing behind Mr McIllroy in the shop when the victim took the view that Donohoe was standing too close. The pair argued about this. After both men had been served the argument continued at the shop door and Mr McIllroy head-butted Donohoe. Donohoe shoved him before leaving the shop and Mr McIllroy following him outside. Judge
Patricia Ryan said that the victim then grabbed Donohoe and “gave him a few digs”. Donohoe had a knife in his pocket from the previous day when he had been using it to fix his bike. Donohoe pulled the knife out and attacked Mr McIllroy with it. The court heard that McIllroy suffered severe facial injuries. He had a wound from his ear canal to his cheek. His face drooped for a while and he still had trouble blinking. Judge Ryan said that
Donohoe acted in selfdefence but with over and above the force required. She suspended a sentence of two years and ordered that €4,000 offered by Donohoe in remorse should be paid over to the victim. Donohoe’s barrister told the court Donohoe had a “completely unblemished record”. “He was unequivocally under attack and that attack was absolutely unnecessary,” he said. The court heard that Donohoe pleaded guilty to assault on the grounds of excessive
self defence, which was accepted by the prosecution. In sentencing Donohoe Judge Ryan noted his remorse and the practical expression of that remorse in terms of the money offered. She also noted his excellent educational achievements and his working record. Finally she noted his engagement with volunteer activity. She suspended the two year prison term on condition that he keeps the peace and is of good behaviour for that period.
Gardai searching for missing Fingal man
THE partner of a man missing for ten days has asked for anyone who may have seen his car to contact gardai. Patrick Wright, 39, was last seen leaving McDonalds in Blanchardstown Shopping Centre last Monday, June 27, at 10.20am. He lef t his Por tmarnock home that morning dressed for work in his silver Toyota Corolla hatchback ( 0 4 W D 2 519 ) , b u t his partner, Deirdre Flynn, hasn’t heard from him since. She said: “He could be anywhere in north county Dublin, Clonee, Blanchardstown, Ratoath, places like that.” Patrick is described as being 5’5’’ in height, of slight build with grey, receding hair.
Up for a show ARMAGH lass Rachael Lowry took a quiet moment by herself to practise her Flourishing skills as she prepared for the All Ireland Pipe band championships in Malahide last weekend. More than 65 bands from all around the island of Ireland, Britain and further afield took part in the event at Malahide Castle, which marked the first time in more than 20 years that they were held in Dublin. Picture: Alison O’Hanlon
7 July 2016 BLANCH Gazette 7
proposal | apartments plan is opposed
‘Development of Brady’s pub would be to the detriment of the entire area’
Developers want to build apartments on the site of the old pub
Ian Begley A PROPOSAL to demolish Brady’s pub in Castleknock and replace it with four storey apartments has been met with widespread opposition. T he planning application submitted by Absainte Limited proposes 41 two- and three-bed apartments, four distinct apartment blocks, 69 underground car parking spaces, and a new vehicular entrance from the Old Navan Road. There will also be pedestrian access into the existing park area between Talbot Downs and Talbot Court if the application is granted. Locals raised their concerns claiming that the proposed development is “completely out of keeping” with the two storey homes in the estates that surround it. At its maximum height, the apartment block would be four stories high, which residents say will overshadow their houses, block natural light from entering
their gardens and infringe their privacy. They also believe that this proposal represents a major over development of the Brady’s pub site. Under the current development plan, the zoning objective for this land is to “provide for residential development and protect and improve residential amenity”. Cllr Roderic O’Gorman (GP) has called on Fingal County Council to reject planning permission for the proposal. He said: “This proposal would severely impact on amenity for existing residents. I think it is unsuitable for this site. The developer should be looking to build family sized houses here instead. “The application itself acknowledged that it does not meet the minimum required number of car-parking spaces as set out under the current Fingal Development Plan. “The Old Navan Road along with the Talbot estate roads are already subject to commuter
parking on most weekdays. “An apartment block of the density proposed will undoubtedly have a significant number of two car households. “The fact that the current proposal under provides for visitor car-parking means that extra parking will be generated on the surrounding roads.” T he application has also received many formal objections from residents living in nearby estates. One person living on the Old Navan Road wrote: “I and my wife have been in residence at the [Old Navan Road] since 1964. “We have seen many developments in the area over the years, most of which improved the area, but this proposed development at Brady’s would be very much to the detriment of the area.” Another permanent resident of the neighbourhood where the development is proposed also wrote that the apartments “will add further to local traffic congestion and compromise traffic safety”.
8 BLANCH Gazette 7 July 2016
Gazettegallery
| Live Out Loud Charity fundraising fashion show
Pam Manning, Lorraine Gavin, Emma Gavin, Sherrie Gearheart and Jade Donnelly. Pictures: Una Williams
Audrey O Neill and Kate Vogelaar
Lending support to prevent suicide
Martha Jane Conway, Sharon McCarthy and Anna Waters
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Michelle Hickey and Barbara O’Flaherty Carol Lombard and Valeria Buffi
Jenny Lupton and Naomi Graham
he community came out in force to support the Irish Chapter of Live Out Loud Charity (LOLC) with a fundraising fashion show and suicide prevention seminar at the Glen Royal Hotel in Maynooth. The show for LOLC educated over 150 audience members and models on the signs of depression and suicide intervention. Sherrie Gearheart, founder of Live Out Loud Charity and Miss United Nations, hosted the evening’s event and said: “I am so proud of our Irish team and their hardwork. Emma Gavin, at age seventeen has been a worldwide ambassador for our organisation for two years and has saved several lives and has restored hope in many teens across Ireland and the world by sharing her bullying story and how she overcame her struggles. We are excited to see what Jade Donnelly will accomplish as our second Irish ambassador. We hope more people will want to get involved after the show.”
7 July 2016 BLANCH Gazette 9
Holy Family start ups | funding of €262,000 is approved for small businesses expansion FUNDING for two new classrooms and four new Special Education Teacher (SET) rooms has been allocated for the Holy Family junior school in River Valley, Swords. The Department of Education approved the expansion last month and the news was warmly welcomed by TD Alan Farrell. The Fine Gael Deputy said: “It’s great news. With such a fast growing community in Swords it is of the utmost importance that we continue to provide additional classrooms to make sure all children get a place and don’t have to go on waiting lists. “SET rooms are instrumental in supporting students facing difficulties in their education.”
Grants to create new 60 jobs Sylvia Pownall BUSINESS grants which will help create 64 new jobs were announced by the Fingal Local Enterprise Office on Tuesday. More than €262,000 was approved for 16 start ups and growing small businesses, allowing for 22 positions straight away and a further 42 by the end of the year. The crop of start ups includes six food and drink firms – including Fingal’s first substantial craft beer brewery, a vegetarian convenience food producer and a ready-togo healthy breakfast company. Funding was also approved for new jobs in
international corporate tourism, an export-oriented craft producer, an engineering company, a ceramics manufacturer, an IT intelligence company and an Android tablet developer creating products for over 65s. The companies are located in Swords, Balbriggan, Donaghmeade, Portmarnock, The Ward, Castleknock, Blanchardstown, Skerries, The Naul, Malahide and Lusk. Mayor of Fingal Darragh Butler – who served for a number of years on the enterprise board presented letters to each of the 16 businesses at County Hall on Tuesday. He said: “Local business is the lifeblood of our
Mark Lantry, Darren King Mr Ireland 2016 and Ryan Barret
Darren’s delight at taking Mr Ireland title
A
GROUP of the country’s most handsome bachelors packed into The Wright Venue to battle it out to become the new Mr Ireland. Judges including top stylist Sonja Mohlich and talent agent Julian Benson were delighted by the high calibre of contestants.
Niamh Kennedy
Norris Stephens and Diana O’Reilly
economy and the local authority has a crucial role to ensure that small businesses and start-ups are given every opportunity to succeed. I am delighted that our Local Enterprise Office in Fingal is proactively encouraging entrepreneurship.”
Head of Enterprise Oisin Geoghegan said LEO had invested a total of €490,000 in small businesses this year. Council CEO Paul Reid revealed: “In the first six months of 2016 we have provided one to one business support services to
more than 500 businesses and would-be entrepreneurs, not to mention hundreds more availing of advice, training and financial assistance. “All of this is having a profoundly positive impact on our local economy.”
Start-ups can apply for a priming grant and growing businesses can apply for an expansion grant after 18 months. Both are capped at €80,000. Applications for feasibility study grants of up to €20,000 will also be considered.
10 BLANCH Gazette 7 July 2016
GUN CRIME | CAPITAL ROCKED BY TWO SHOOTINGS IN BROAD DAYLIGHT IN LESS THAN A WEEK
Shock as children out walking find shooting victim in quiet estate
sylvia pownall
Picture: James Gabriel Martin
Tensions rise after murder
THE latest shooting to occur in the inner city took place on Bridgefoot Street in Dublin 8 last Friday afternoon. The victim, David “Daithi” Douglas (right) was shot in the head and chest a number of times by a lone gunman as he stood in the doorway of the Shoestown Shop (above). The 53-year-old died in hospital a short time later. Tensions in the area remain high, with regular armed garda checkpoints held during weekend. Gardai believe that the incident is part of the bitter feud between the Kinahan and Hutch gangs.
THREE children walking with their mother came across the critically injured victim of the capital’s latest shooting at Dun Emer Place in Lusk on Tuesday morning. Father-of-two Christopher Maguire, 38, was blasted three times in the face and upper body – but managed to call 999 and was conscious when paramedics arrived. The victim, originally from Ballymun but living in the Dun Emer housing estate where the shooting occurred, was found lying on the footpath close to his car. Maguire is not suspected of any involvement in the bloody Kinahan/ Hutch feud, but some of his closest associates are believed to be “guns for hire” for the Kinahan side and fled the country after being quizzed
over the murder of Gareth Hutch. Detectives are also probing the possibility that the shooting may be linked to a row in the so-called “New INLA” faction over extortion cash. Gardai removed the bloodstained clothes Maguire had been wearing when he was targeted by a hitman armed with a handgun and silencer. The weapon was later recovered in a burnt-out getaway car – a Volkswagen Golf – in a nearby field at Kilhedge Lane. The driver’s side window of Maguire’s white Volkwagen Passat at the scene was smashed, with glass and bullet casings strewn on the road at the quiet cul de sac. Detectives are now trawling through CCTV footage from a nearby premises that is believed to show the attackers making their escape.
Children on their summer holidays were among the onlookers who gathered at the scene. Shocked resident James Jameson said: “I’ve been living here three years and there has never been anything like this. I knew something was wrong when the road was packed with police cars and ambulances. I’m feeling scared here now.” Another resident said: “It happened in broad daylight. You see all the kids out here on their bikes. If it’d been a bit later, God knows what could have happened.” North Dublin Senator Lorraine Clifford Lee condemned the brazen shooting in “a quiet suburban neighbourhood such as Dun Emer”. Fingal TD Louise O’Reilly also condemned it, and repeated her call for Rush Garda Station to be reopened.
7 July 2016 BLANCH Gazette 11
don’sdublin One of the great Irish artists of the modern era Jack B Yeats, one of Ireland’s foremost painters, was born in London on August 29, 1871, the youngest child of John Butler Yeats and his wife Susan (nee Pollexfen). His father, who had trained as a lawyer, was also a painter although not nearly as successful as his son would become. Jack spent his early years moving between London, Dublin and his maternal grandparent’s home in Sligo before moving to London in 1887. He studied at the South Kensington School of Art and the Chiswick School of Art where he met Mary Cottenham White who he married in 1894. They moved to Devon where he developed his artistic career as an illustrator for various journals and after focusing on watercolours had his first exhibition in London in the 1897. The couple left Devon for Ireland in 1910, first settling in Greystones, Wicklow, before moving to Dublin and finally into 18 Fitzwilliam Square where they spent the rest of their lives. Back in Dublin Yeats began to work in oils and travelled widely capturing images of rural life, particularly in the West of Ireland and of course scenes in Dublin. One of his most famous and beloved paintings is The Liffey Swim (1924) which is now in the National Gallery. He entered this in the Paris Olympics and won the Silver Medal which is part of the Jack B Yeats archive that was donated to the gallery by his niece Anne Yeats, herself a painter and stage designer, in 1996. In 1999, his painting The Wild Ones was sold at Sotheby’s, London, for £1.2 million, the highest price ever paid for one of his works. He continued to produce work for publication including illustrations for JM Synge’s The Aran Islands. And he wrote numerous plays, a collection of short stories for children and novels through the 1930s and 1940s. He died on March 28, 1957 and is buried in Mount Jerome Cemetery. He was 85.
Don Cameron
www.donsdublin.wordpress.com
The Liffey Swim (1924) which is now hanging in the National Gallery
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dublinGazettegallery | some very well dressed guests attend The
Louise Cooney and Lauren Arthurs
Models Natalia Piechaczek and Gail Kaneswaran. Pictures: Brian McEvoy
Robyn Daly and Emer McEntaggart
Glen O’Connor and Anita Ryan
Kathryn McClune, Darshini Ramasubbu and Fiona Lamrock
Neasa Ni Ghrada and Stephen Henry
Jenna Culligan and Amy Cullen
Jane O’Halloran and Ursula Cullen
7 July 2016 Gazette 13
June Ball 2016 fundraiser at The DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
Having a ball at a black tie event O
over 700 guests attended The June Ball 2016 which took place at Dublin’s DoubleTree Hilton Hotel. The Glitzy Back Tie event, which has become one of the annual highlights of Ireland’s social calendar, raises funds for the
Irish Motor Neurone Disease Association. Guests arrived to a complimentary drinks reception, while entertainment was provided by Smash Hits, followed by international dj’s who kept the attendees dancing into the early hours. The gala raised over €70,000.
Nicki Blair and Vanessa Blair
Suzanna Serradas and Rachel Barrett Laura O’Shea
Yvonne Czajkowski and Vicky O’Brien
Aisling Farrell
Hannah Thornton and Urban Lindsey Browning and Anna Cywinska
Aisling Dunne and Sarah O’Dwyer
Nichola Galvin and Karen McGoldrick
Monks
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14 Gazette 7 July 2016
dublinBUSINESS
people
23,000 thanks for Harvey Norman’s help to fight cancer
The Web Centre appoints a new SEO specialist
THE Web Centre is expanding their services and strengthening the SEO department with the incorporation of a new SEO specialist, Maria Ramos. Spanish-born but Irish adopted, Ramos has worked for SMEs as a digital marketing specialist, working specially in SEO projects, boosting the presence of companies on the internet. With a background in journalism, Ramos has worked for all kind of companies and organisations. Since she left her birth city in the north of Spain, where she worked in different local media, she has always been linked to the digital world.
Strategy Ramos was in charge of the social media strategy for cultural companies such as Cultural Actex, and heading the digital marketing department of the NGO, Iande Oca – and organisation dedicated to open a school in a small village in Bahia, Brazil. After she moved to Ireland, where she worked for Google during two years, Ramos started writing in online magazines, blogging about digital marketing in different platforms, and working for different Irish companies and organisations on their digital strategies. Ramos joins The Web Centre with the aim of reinforcing the digital marketing department with new, fresh ideas on SEO, social media and content marketing, as well as contributing to the energy of the company.
FOR the fifth year running, Harvey Norman supported the Marie Keating Foundation through its nationwide Sleep Pink campaign, which raised €23,000 through a percentage of the sales of selected bedding products being donated to the foundation. Customers were also invited to add a euro at the checkout to help the cause. Pictured at the presentation of the funds are Linda Keating (second left), director of fundraising, Marie Keating Foundation with Harvey Norman’s Natalia Gaffney, PR and communications; Robbie Auckram, general manager, Harvey Norman Bedding and Laura O’Rourke, furniture and bedding advertising coordinator
Warning about vulture funds ‘driven by greed’ AN URGENT review of the future role of vulture funds, if any, in Irish society and the issue of commuter transport was called for by the incoming president of IPAV (the Institute of Professional Auctioneers and Valuers) at the organisation’s recent national conference in Dublin. Delegates including the Tanaiste and Minister for Justice and Equality, Francis Fitzgerald, heard Alan Redmond, managing director of Redmond Property Consultants, address such funds in his speech. He said: “Many of these funds are simply driven by greed to flip the properties as quickly as possible with existing tenants often needlessly forced from their homes. “As we go forward, Irish society needs to look at the notion of selling many more tenanted properties, much in the same way that the commercial sector operates.
“Tenants should have longer fixture of tenure, which should only be broken for breach of obligations, such as the failure to pay rent.” The new president said the arrival of these vulture funds in the midst of a housing crisis was “highly questionable”. Redmond also said the Minister for Housing, Simon Coveney, and Minister of State Damien English need to address the issue of commuter transport, in conjunction with the Minister forTransport, Shane Ross. He said: “Thousands of people are still prepared to pay extremely high rents to live between Dublin’s canals ... because they’re not satisfied with the quality of public transport. “The frequency, time and speed of these trains is way off what it should be compared to other cities if we are to make living in the suburbs a realistic option for working people.
“The same applies to broadband, which in part of the country [offers] some or none [coverage] and mobile telephone reception.” Redmond also supports greater density of housing in the capital. “Whether we like it or not, more and more people – notably, younger people – will continue to live in the capital, which will be the major source of employment for the foreseeable future. “In order to facilitate this growing population, we have to build upwards as well as outwards. In this regard, I warmly welcome the decision by Dublin City Council to allow planning permission for apartment blocks of up to 24 metres in height, even 28 metres or nine stories, which is the height allowed for commercial blocks. “It is clear that cities around the world that have restrictions on height have high rents and high levels of homelessness.”
Tanaiste Frances Fitzgerald and Alan Redmond, managing director of Redmond Property Consultants and the incoming president of IPAV
He cited Brussels as a city where people live very comfortably, and at very reasonable rents, in very good quality apartments in high-rise blocks. Calling for a longterm strategy on renting, Redmond said: “Recent trends show that Ireland is slowly but surely following the trend of its EU counterparts by having an increasing proportion of the population living in
rented accommodation for much, or indeed all, of their lives. “While the State can provide part of this need, it is the private sector that has traditionally come to the rescue and filled this gap. “However, increasing regulation and lack of any incentives have seen many landlords drift out of this sector at a very critical time.
“As part of its Budget 2017 strategy, I am calling on the Government to introduce real tax incentives for ordinary buy-to-let investors, to encourage more to enter the sector. “These investors, for example, should also be given the same tax latitude as the so-called vulture funds, which do not pay income tax on rental income,” he said.
7 July 2016 Gazette 15
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dublinlife Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week
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maggie may be the dog for you ...
Hand yourself over to some top comedy from Tara Flynn, Fred Cooke and Joe Rooney. Picture: Sasko Lazarov/Photocall Ireland
comedy: fans in for a treat at 10th annual Vodafone Comedy FestivaL
A laughably good line-up ian begley
SOME of the world’s funniest men and women will be in Dublin for the 10th annual Vodafone Comedy Festival. The festival will see 80 comedians take to the stage at the Iveagh Gardens from July 28 to 31. Some of Ireland’s best loved comedians, including Al Porter, the Apres Match crew, PJ Gallagher and more, will give the audience a bellyful of laughs. Speaking at the launch of the festival, online sketch trio Foil Arms and Hog said: “The festi-
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‘The Vodafone Laughter Lab will host many of the grassroots comedy clubs from around the city’
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Festival director Bren Berry
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val is brilliant – it’s in Dublin; it’s 10 minutes away from where we live. “They always book some of the best acts from around the world. Some other festivals might not book them, but you can come here and see mental acts from the States!”
Acts from all around the world will feature at the festival, including US comedy legend Bill Burr, UK star Milton Jones, and Des Biship. Foil Arms and Hog added: “We’re looking forward to seeing Bill Burr the most; he’s incredible. We saw him at Vicar
Street a few years ago, and he was in Breaking Bad, so he’s great.” Most fans are used to seeing the Foil Arms and Hog in their online sketches, but they think their live shows will offer even more. They said: “We’ve been doing the stage stuff for about eight years and the videos for only two, so the stage stuff is way more honed, I guess. We are way better at stage [comedy] and it’s a lot more fun.” Festival director Bren Berry, Aiken Promotions, said: “We are delighted to continue our
tradition of bringing exciting international talent to the Iveagh Gardens ... but most exciting of all is the continued development of amazing talent here in Ireland. “It is a pleasure to work with this superb pool of artists. In recognition of that, The Vodafone Laughter Lab will host many of the grassroots comedy clubs from around the city, which are the lifeblood of the Irish comedy scene.” For full details of the Vodafone Comedy Festival line up and programme information, see vodafonecomedy.ie.
OUR Dog of the Week looking for her #SpecialSomeone* is Maggie, a six-year-old female Labrador cross. She is a beautiful, bright dog that is looking for a calm home as she has had a few knock backs in life and really needs to build up her confidence again. Maggie can find the world to be a scary place and needs patient adopters who will show her this is not the case. She adores playing fetch with her beloved tennis balls! Once she gets to know you, Maggie will lavish you with love. If you can be Maggie’s #SpecialSomeone*, then 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, at www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline, or on Twitter @ DogsTrust_IE. *Dogs Trust has launched their new TV ad; the #SpecialSomeone campaign aims to bring to life just how important a new owner is to the dogs they rehome.
7 July 2016 Gazette 17
dublinlife
FEATURES
Young fans get into the X Factor spirit
Simon Cowell amongst X Factor fans in Dublin
X MARKS THE SPOT X Factor fans Lisa Kenny and Jenny Ashe
X Factor and Dublin Gazette fans at Croke Park
Judge Nicole Scherzinger
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HE Gazette was at Croke Park on Friday to meet Ireland’s X Factor hopefuls before they faced the iconic panel of judges, who had returned to Dublin for auditions for the first time since 2010. Fans were delighted as first host Dermot O’Leary, and then Louis Walsh, Sharon Osbourne and Nicole Scherzinger arrived at Croker, followed by Simon Cowell. Louis told The Gazette: “We’re not just looking for great singers. We want personalities, people with ambition and all of that.” Simon added: “It’s really fantastic being back in Dublin again. Niall Horan first auditioned here in 2010 and to find another talented musician like him would be very exciting.”
Judge Sharon Osbourne
Louis Walsh charms the Irish dancers at the X Factor auditions in Croke Park
X Factor fans are all smiles
Dermot O’Leary joining in with the Irish dancers
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16 Gazette 7 July 2016
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dublinlife
DIARY
Legions of honour as French hail Irish fans
Irish fans are to be honoured for their sportsmanship and all round soundness at the Euro 2016 football tournament. Fans are to be presented with the Medal of the City of Paris – the “Grand Vermeil” by the city’s Mayor Anne Hidalgo, who has informed President Michael D Higgins. The award is considered the city’s highest honour, with past recipients including Rafael Nadal, Jane Fonda and Nobel Prize for literature winner Toni Morrison. According to French news agency AFP, Mayor Hidalgo cited Irish fans f o r t h e “ e xe m p l a r y sportsmanship” and said that the country’s soccer supporters distinguished themselves by the atmosphere they created during their time in France. Irish fans who travelled to France made headlines all over the world during the course of Ireland’s four matches, for their random acts of kindness, singing and good humour. French football leg-
end Eric Cantona even commended the boys in green. “The awesome Irish fans have been the life of the party. Singing with the police, putting babies to sleep, serenading the ladies,” he said. “They also multiply bread, change water into beer, they even know the end to Game Of Thrones.”
fun run for st james’s hospital St James’s Hospital Foundation will hold their 8th Annual Liberties Fun Run once again on Thursday, July 21 in aid of St James’s Hospital. Starting at 7:45pm, this unique 6k timed road race takes participants through the heart of old Dublin and attracts in excess of 1,000 participants every year. Starting and finishing in the beautiful grounds of IMMA/Royal Hospital Kilmainham, the route takes in some of the most famous sites throughout the Liberties including St James’s
Gate, Francis Street and the Coombe. Registration costs €30 and all participants will receive a free running top souvenir. All of the proceeds from the 2016 Liberties Fun Run will go directly to the Guide Clinic at St James’s Hospital to upgrade patient facilities. To register for the 2016 Liberties Fun Run, visit www.supportstjames.ie.
billy elliot set for first irish show Celebr ating ten extraordinary years on London’s West End, Billy Elliot, one of today’s most beloved musical theatre shows, , comes to Ireland for the first time this July. Set in a small English mining town against a backdrop of the infamous 1984/85 miners’ strike, the inspirational story of Billy Elliot depicts a young boy’s struggle against the odds to make his dreams come true. Join Billy on his journey of discovery, all in the comfortable surrounds of Dublin’s state-of-the-art Bord
Fans won plenty of praise for their behaviour at Euro 2016
Gais Energy Theatre. This heart-warming story of family and community is sure to hit the right notes with you and yours. Experience Elton John’s timeless score to spectacular dance routines in the show which has captivated audiences all over the world. Tickets for Billy Elliot are priced from €25 - €65.80 and can be purchased at www.bordgaisenergytheatre.ie.
Billy Elliot comes to Ireland for the first time this month
7 July 2016 Gazette 19
fast
TRAVEL NEWS
northern spain: four days of guided walking on the camino
Step right up for the famous hiking route
Ian Begley
Pictured are Matthews.ie driver, Anthony Hoey with Noel Matthews, general manager and Paddy Matthews, managing director. Picture: Conor McCabe Photography
Head to the beach and the kids go free Parents in Dublin can bring their kids to the seaside for free this summer thanks to an innovative coach company. Matthews.ie, who run hourly services between Dublin city centre and Bettystown, have introduced a unique summer offer to revive the concept of the day trip to the golden sands. “With the great weather we have had so far this summer, we thought that we could do our bit to encourage the tradition of a day out at the seaside,” said Matthews.ie managing director Paddy Matthews. “During July and August, only parents will pay on our buses from Dublin to Bettystown, with a maximum of two accompanied children under 12 travelling free. “This means that entire families can have a day out at the seaside for as little as a return fare of €15 if one adult travels. “Bettystown has miles of golden sands and a host of facilities for the perfect summer’s day out.” This offer is valid for
any ticket (Leap, single, return, free travel, commuter or 10 trip) purchased from Dublin to Bettystown. Travel times are 8am12noon from Dublin and 12 noon to 6pm from Bettystown. Matthews services run from North Cumberland Street and stop at Drumcondra and Whitehall – seeMatthews.ie for more details. To add to the offer, they have teamed up with Funtasia Bettystown, who will give €10 worth of ride tokens usable on any of their fairground rides when you spend €10 and present a current Matthews bus ticket. A m o n g i t s m a ny attractions and facilities Funtasia Bettystown has white knuckle rides for the thrill seekers and gentler attractions for the less adventurous. Its multi-level Jungle Zone will keep the young explorers busy for hours. Funtasia Bettystown also has a luxurious casino, 3D motion theater, American-themed pool areas and Ireland’s only rollercoaster on a roof.
Gazette
TRAVEL
This autumn, walk the Footsteps of the Camino on a seven-night holiday with four days of guided walking through sunny Spain. Starting at Bilbao and walking west towards Santiago, your trip will begin with a guided walking tour along the banks of the Nervion River, followed by a visit to one of the world’s most famous art galleries. One of the most admired works of contemporar y architecture, the Guggenheim Museum boasts some of Europe’s most exciting and unusual art, including Richard Serra’s 340ft Snake. Enjoy a guided tour through the most prestigious wine region of Spain, Haro in Rioja. Take in the stunning vineyards and rich vegetable gardens in the lush country side before
partaking in a tour of a local bodega (winery.) Walk through the Castillian wheat plains, with guide assistance, as you enjoy the spectacular scenery. Cross the magnificent bridge at Puente de Orbigo and trek through wooded terrain to San Justo de la Vega, while taking in the sights of Monte Irago. The “piece de resistance” of this journey is the final stretch of the Camino with a stop at Cebreiro, with breathtaking views from 1,300 metres above sea-level. Complete your holiday by leaving a stone at the symbolic Cruz de Fierro (The Iron Cross) and like the pilgrims before you, leave all your burdens behind. There will also be free time to explore the beautiful Santiago de Compostela at your leisure. This trip is ideal for moderately experienced
The scallop shell is used, along with the yellow arrow, to guide pilgrims heading to Santiago de Compostela (above) along its many different routes
walkers, with an average walking distance of around 10km per day on flat, gravel terrain. Prices start from €899pp including
return f lights from Dublin, transfers, taxes and charges, 7 nights’ B&B accommodation, 5 evening meals and 4 days of guided walking,
with flights departing September and October 2016. For more information and to book visit www. tdactiveholidays.ie.
Saddle up and escape to the west Escape the bustle of urban life on the 42km Great Western Greenway, the longest off-road walking and cycling trail in Ireland. The Greenway is a traffic free cycling and walking trail which follows the route of the renowned Westport to Achill railway which closed in 1937. Take some time for yourself and get some fresh air cycling through the wilds of Westport, County Mayo with a great package from Knockranny House Hotel. The hotel’s Greenway Getaway includes two nights’ accommodation for two adults with a
hearty breakfast each morning and bicycle and helmet hire for one day. Post cycle, and in need of something to help your aching muscles the following day, be sure and take full advantage of Spa Salveo’s vitality pool and thermal suite and maybe even treat yourself to a blissfully relaxing treatment. The Greenway Getaway package is available from €198 per person sharing (midweek) and children under 10 stay for free (With bike hire extra). For more information, visit www.KnockrannyHouseHotel.ie or call 098 28 600.
Gazette
20 Gazette 7 July 2016
OUT&ABOUT
STYLE
boys
Into the future ... emma nolan
Vichy has brought out a range of facial masks designed with different skin types in mind. The Pureté Thermal Mineral Masks target three common skin issues and are suitable for sensitive skin.
emma nolan
Style Editor
Looking at the Penneys Autumn Winter menswear collection, it’s easy to see how it could easily be mistaken for a more expensive high street brand. There is no novelty or juvenile slogans – this collection is a subtle capsule of soft muted tones
The Quenching Mineral Mask is specifically for dry, sensitive skin that lacks moisture and radiance. Infused with mineralizing thermal water, it gives the skin a hydration boost while reinforcing the skin’s natural moisture barrier. The Pore Purifying Clay Mask is for oily sin with pores that block easily, using clay to absorb impurities and excess seabum.
that is both stylish and functional. Five key themes underpin the collection; Urban Survivalist, Ashbury Book Club, Downtown, Tundra and Bolivian Pass. Urban Survivalist borrows from the sports luxe aesthetic of the likes of Alexander Wang – comfort is combined with style as bomber jackets and joggers form the base for the look.
Cap €4, T-shirt €12, Jumper €14,
Hat €3, T-shirt 10, Jumper €13,
Bag €12, Trousers €16
Jeans €22
Downtown is a collision of decades, merging a 70’s palette with relaxed 90’s shapes, while Tundra is an ode the great outdoors. Jackets and coats for this story are made functional with padding, hoods and straps. Bolivian Pass has a warm palette and focuses on denim and Ashbury Book Club provides a hint of preppyness.
The Double Glow Peel Mask gets rid of dead skin with its gentle exfoliating properties and plant extracts to tackle dry patches.
Coat €50, Shirt €17, T-shirt €6,
Each pot costs €18 and is available at Vichy counters in pharmacies nationwide.
Hat €4,
Jeans €13,
Coat €50,
Shoes €16
Hoody €10, Shoes €16
Jacket €40, Trousers €19, Shirt €17, T-shirt €10
Jacket €28, Shirt €9, T-shirt €8
7 July 2016 Gazette 21
BITESIZEDNEWS Nigeria still top of Irish fish importers Over 49,000 tonnes of fish were exported from Ireland in 2015 to third world countries according to new figures released by the Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA). Nigeria remains the highest impor ter, accounting for 46 per cent of Irish fishing exports, followed by China and the African countries of Cameroon, Ghana and Benin. Surprisingly, exports to third world countries decreased overall during 2015 compared with the 2014 figures (50,068 tonnes), but some markets continued to thrive including leading importers Nigeria, Cameroon, Ghana and Benin who maintained an increase in their volume of imports. Mackerel, horse mackerel, blue whiting, herring, whelk and crab remain the preferred products with herring, whelk and crab all recording a year on year increase. Commenting on the figures, Susan Steele, chair of SFPA said: “Export markets in the EU and third world countries are vital to the realisation of the Government’s vision for Ireland’s seafood industry, as set out in Foodwise 2025. “Robust confidence in the quality and safety of Irish seafood is of critical importance to the maintenance of existing markets and to the expansion of the growing collection of third world markets.”
Gazette
FOOD&DRINK
Whipping up pasta magic for charity aishling kennedy
A new cookbook called Pasta Magic has hit shelves and all the proceeds of the book will go towards the Make-A-Wish Foundation Ireland. The founders of the pasta company Leaves Pure Food, Nico and Sabine, came up with the idea for the cookbook that features recipes and also a childhood wish or dream from some of Ireland’s most famous celebrity chefs, broadcasters, journalists, business and opinion leaders.
TV pundit and author Brent Pope was among those who shared their favourite pasta recipes. Picture: Andres Poveda
A savoury treat to enjoy on those summer afternoons THIS week, we have the perfect treat for a summer afternoon Chive and Lemon on Guinness Bread.
with Guinness and milk. Mix
Guinness Bread Recipe
Lemon & Chive Butter
• 250g white flour
• 200g softened salted butter
• 60g strong flour
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tsp br soda
• Six chives finely chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• Two twists of cracked black
• 30g pinhead oatmeal
pepper
with all dry goods, put in a greased tin and cook at 150o C for 75mins
• 1 tsp brown sugar • 30g wheat bran
Method
• 4 tbsp treacle
Place the butter and lemon
• 30g butter
juice in a bowl and mash
• 100ml Guinness
together, add the pepper, finish
• 200ml milk
with the chives and spread on bread straight away or can
Method
keep in the fridge for about one
Melt butter and treacle. Mix
week.
The recipe for the chive and lemon on Guinness bread is taken from the Castleknock Hotel and Country Club’s indulgent Summer Afternoon Tea Menu. The menu is available in the Park Restaurant between 2pm to 5pm daily and the Summer Afternoon Tea will be served up on a threetier stand with each item of food placed on a bed of faux grass. Savoury items on the menu include tomato and wild garlic bruschetta and poached salmon, chive and lemon on Guinness bread, and plenty of scones, sponges and truffles. T here are three menu options starting from €21 per person to €32 per person with a €3 supplement charged on Saturday and Sunday afternoon. To book a table call (01) 6406363.
Contributions The cookbook features a total of 22 pasta
recipes by leading chefs including Kevin Dundon, Rachel Allen, Neven Maguire, and Donal Skehan as well as contributions from Brent Pope, Lucy Kennedy, Ken Doherty, Peter Devlin and many more. Make-A-Wish chief executive Susan O ’ D w y e r s a i d : “A t Make-A-Wish Ireland we believe that it takes more than medicine to help children and their families to heal. “Thanks to initiatives such as the publication of Pasta Magic, we will be able to grant more wishes in 2016.” Pasta Magic (€5.99) i s av a i l a b l e t o b u y in SuperValu stores nationwide.
Gazette
22 blanch gazette 7 July 2016
OUT&ABOUT
CINEMA
ReelReviews
The conjuring 2 Ghostly and ghastly
BRITAIN’S most famous poltergeist case, the Enfield Haunting, gets a Hollywood treatment in The Conjuring 2 (Cert 15A, 134 mins). Director James Wan delivers a spookily effective tale, as an American ghostbusting duo, of sorts, head to an ordinary London home in the 1970s to check out a poltergeist. It soon becomes clear that the ghost is very real, and really horrible ...
ab fab
Still staggering along LIKE the older, sillier, better, Britisher version of Sex and the City, Absolutely Fabulous (Cert 15A, 91 mins) comes wandering into cinemas, bottle of bolly in one hand, an okayish script in the other. Patsy and Eddy do their thing in their first film, with Joanna Lumley and Jennifer Saunders gamely bringing their shtick to the big screen. It’s fine, though one that fans will enjoy more.
independence day: Resurgence This sequel ain’t equal
WHEN aliens return to destroy the world in Independence Da: Resurgence (Cert 12A, 120 mins), people all around the world unite ... to criticise the film, which has been roundly panned as an inferior sequel to the muchloved sci-fi classic. Jeff Goldblum adds a dash of wit and warmth, but even he can’t rescue this turkey.
Despite its increasingly convoluted plot, there’s no denying the great on-screen chemistry between Kevin Hart and Dwayne Johnson
central intelligence: an unlikely but likeable bromance
Film’s Hart has clever pairing ABSOLUTELY Fabulous: The Movie may seem the obvious choice this week if you are looking for a feel-good hit of buddymovie comedy, but the odd couple pairing of Kevin Hart and Dwayne Johnson are also winning cinemagoers over in Central Intelligence. Two decades on from his high school graduation, Calvin Joyner (Kevin Hart) is adjusting to a life where things did not work out as planned. Enigmatic, athletic, and unequivocally voted as the Most Likely to Succeed, Calvin was a standout amongst his peers, but somehow lost his mojo along the way. His wife, Maggie (Danielle Nicolet) may still believe in him, but Calvin is ground down and disillusioned by his career in accountancy.
Dave phillips
A 20th anniversary class reunion finds Calvin back in touch with his former schoolmate, Bob Stone (Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson), whose journey since high school has taken him on an opposite trajectory. Once the victim of bullies, and seemingly destined for an uneventful life, Bob has transformed into a crime-fighting Adonis who claims to work undercover with the CIA. “I just did one thing to change,” he confides to the awestruck Calvin. “I worked out for six hours a day, every day, for the past
20 years”. Bob brings all manner of chaos into Calvin’s life as he insists that only Calvin’s unique actuarial skills can help him stop some illicit deal that threatens the free world. In case you are in any doubt about the kind of comedy prevalent in Central Intelligence, the film’s tagline – Saving the world requires a little Hart and a big Johnson – should make it clear. The humour may be aimed low, but you cannot deny its masterful precision. Much of what works about Central Intelligence rests on the on-screen buzz between its two stars. Hart’s on-stage comedy success hasn’t always translated well into film, but here it works a charm – the frustrated observational patter as Calvin
finds himself led into deeper and deeper water clearly has its roots in Hart’s stand-up routines, but it works especially well contrasted against the larger-than-life performance of Johnson. And, while Johnson has struggled to find the right roles, this time he finally nailed it – overplaying Bob as a goofy, idiotic lug with a penchant for unicorns, Johnson has a remarkably charming side that only shines in contrast to Hart. The great chemistry is kept alive through a rapid pacing from Dodgeball director Rawson Marshall Thurber. The story thrums along quite
nicely for the first 45 minutes or so, revealing some plot twists that keep us guessing as to Bob’s true intentions. There’s good support from Amy Ryan, who plays a CIA agent who is tracking Bob, and some cameos from Jason Bateman and Aaron Paul. As the latter half of the film descends into near nonsense, you will probably lose much interest in who may be double-crossing who and for what reason, but will
be happy to see the plot eked out just to get a little more of the great c h e m i s t r y b e t we e n Johnson and Hart. Yo u ’ l l f i n d s u c h moments, but by the end things have turned too outlandish and you get the impression that even a tighter edit could not have tidied up a slightly hackneyed finish. Regardless, Central Intelligence is a fine summer comedy that delivers a lot more than it might seem at first glance, and brings out two great performances from its stars.
Verdict: 6/10
The Rock as you’ve never seen him before – or at least, as an overweight younger version of himself as Bob Stone in this breezy summer comedy
7 July 2016 blanch Gazette 23
nissan: THE BASIC AND UPGRADED MODELS ARE BOTH ATTRACTIVE BUYS
The sleek Pulsar is an impressive family car dave phillips
MUCH of the rejuvenation seen in Nissan has been brought about through the brand’s focus on its successful Qashqai. The crossover model has proved to be wildly popular, particularly in Ireland and the UK, where for the past decade it has effectively become the go-to model for new buyers. However, the crossover appeal is not for everybody and Nissan’s new Pulsar has been introduced in the hopes of making a dent in the midsized hatchback market – no easy feat when you’re stepping up against firm contenders such as the VW Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. Positioned towards the more cost-effective end of the scale, the Pulsar starts out from €20,995 and aims to offer some practical performance and sensible value. The Pulsar comes with a choice between a 1.2 litre petrol, and a 1.5 litre diesel engine. The former gives a smidgen more performance, while the latter gives slightly cheaper road tax and lower fuel consump-
tion overall. It costs around €2,000 extra to go for the diesel build, and when you factor in fuel costs over the life of the car, this seems to make a lot of sense. On the outside, the Pulsar goes for a sleek and sturdy look that mirrors its practical nature. This isn’t the kind of car that will turn a lot of heads, but there are some nice touches, such as the mesh grill and subtle rear spoiler that add a bit of personality. There are three trim levels available, with the top-level coming with a set of 17” alloys along with chrome window surrounds that also help to keep things looking fresh.
Spacious Inside, the Pulsar is spacious and well-laid out – the dash is clean and uncluttered, though a mix of hard and soft plastic feels slightly out of kilter with the rest of the trim. The model we tested came with the premium SVE trim, which is around €5,000 on from the base price, with a lot of those upgrades coming in the form of interior technology.
There’s keyless entry, and a one-touch start, and the Connect 2 system – the one-stop infotainment system that you can find on most of Nissan’s range. As well as providing intuitive sat-nav, the system also hooks up to your phone to handle your calls and can even sync with your Facebook account to provide you with ongoing social media updates while you drive, in case that floats your boat. More importantly, the 7” display provides a feed for the rear camera, and can also provide a bird’seye view of the car by patching together pictures taken from each side. There is a lot of safety tech that comes in on this trim as well, including blind spot warnings, moving object detection, and lane departure warnings. All in all, the Pulsar may not be Nissan’s most exciting offering, but it is a solid and pragmatic family car, although you’ll need to upgrade to get some of its best features, and only time will tell whether it holds its own against some of the sector’s more established models.
The Pulsar goes for a sleek and sturdy look that mirrors its practical nature
The Pulsar is spacious and well-laid out – the dash is clean and uncluttered
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MOTORING
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26 blanch gazette 7 July 2016
SPORT
FastSport
High quality shortlist nominated for award THE maiden New Ireland Assurance Player of the Month award nominees saw a string of high quality players put forward for the gong. Clontarf’s Sarah McCaffrey, St Brigid’s Elaine Kelly, Foxrock Cabinteely’s Amy Connolly and Na Fianna’s Orla Egan all drew top plaudits for their performances in the group stages of the Dublin club championships to be in the frame. McCaffrey has been among the driving forces for Clontarf in their initial run of three wins in the intermediate championship, powering to high scoring wins over Skerrier Harps, Clann Mhuire and St Margaret’s. She has shown tremendous ability to break past players with speed and skill, create and take scores and generally influence the outcome of games. Former Dublin corner-forward Kelly, above, has been one of St Brigid’s guiding lights in Group 2 of the senior championship, not just in June but since the start of the campaign. One club mate said “her commitment to the team is an example to the younger players on the team and a driving force everyone else.” She helped her side finish second in their group to reach the knock-out stages thanks to a 3-14 to no score win over Parnell’s. Foxrock Cabinteely topped that pool with Amy Connolly their star woman in a 6-18 to 1-12 success.
Proud sponsors of the DLGFA adult championships
ladies football: new ireland assurance player of the month
Monthly honour for fired up Flanagan sport@dublingazette.com
B A L LY B O D E N S t Enda’s sharp-shooter Emily Flanagan was named the first winner of the New Ireland Assurance Player of the Month award. T h e 18 - y e a r - o l d received the June award for a stellar performance in her club’s senior championship win over Fingallians last week, netting twice in the latter stages. Those goals capped a victory as well as a fine all-round performance, breaking for ward at pace with aggression and determination. Before her intervention, Boden trailed with 13 minutes to go but ended up running out nine point winners. Just four days later, she was in action again for the Dublin minors, this time in a more defensive role as the county won
the Leinster title. Club manager Claire Butterly, a former AllIreland club champion with Boden, has taken the reins this season and has been really impressed with her young charge, a product of St Colmcille’s Primar y School and Loreto, Beaufort, who she says is improving quickly. “Emily is obviously a very talented young player and she plays with a great deal of maturity,” Butterly told GazetteSport. “We’ve been really impressed with her understanding of the wider game and what she contributes to the team; it’s remarkable for such a young player.” Flanagan’s performance against Fingallians certainly caught the eye, not least from the watching Dublin senior manager Greg McGonigle
Ballyboden St Enda’s Emily Flanagan
who said that he would certainly be keeping tabs on her progress “when she becomes available to me!” Butterly added about her showing: “She had a wonderful second half; it really was a standout performance. But Emily’s playing with a lot of confidence and has been working hard and performing consistently at this level throughout the championship.” As for Boden, themselves, the club has swept to three wins from three in the senior champion-
ship and are looking good for the playoffs. Butterly is among a number of former players from their All-Ireland winning side in 2004 and 2005 like Fiona Corcoran and Aisling Farrelly who are now on the management team. And Butterly says the side are “pleased with how things are coming along”. “It’s a new set up and the players have been really open to the new personnel and new ways of doing things,” she said.
“Time will tell how the season progresses but the girls are enjoying each other and getting a lot out of their football at the moment, and that’s a great place to be.” They complete their group phase on July 13 against Thomas Davis with a win ensuring they top Group 1. ** To nominate someone deserving of the July Player of the Month award, contact us at sport@dublingazette.com with their name, club and a couple of lines about why you feel they should be up for the honour!
7 July 2016 blanch gazette 27
Gazette
Sure-footed Cian not fluting around Kilmacud Crokes star rejects suggestions Dublin are going through the motions in Leinster championship as final date with Westmeath on July 17 in Croke Prak comes into view karl graham
sport@dublingazette.com
DUBLIN defender Cian O’Sullivan has denied suggestions made by Pat Spillane on The Sunday Game that the All-Ireland champions are “fluting around at the moment”. Spillane made the comments after Dublin’s comfortable 10-point win over Meath in their Leinster semi-final – a result that saw them criticised in some quarters for not being more ruthless rather than celebrated for another emphatic win. “I suppose the first half was quite a good half of football I’d say from a spectators’ perspective, it was a close game. I felt the intensity out there,” he said in the wake of the tie. “In the second half, the
game seemed to go down a couple of paces and it was quite a flat performance from probably both sets of teams. I know we ended up winning by 10 points but, from our perspective, the aim was just to win and to get to a Leinster final and we achieved that.” The level of criticism aimed at the team shows just how far they have separated themselves from the Leinster pack. Indeed, there was a time when any win over Meath would have been celebrated almost as jubilantly as that historic win over Kerry. “It’s funny how these things ebb and flow, teams go through patches of good and bad times. I remember my first year in the Dublin team we got to an All-Ireland quarter
final against Kerry. “We got beaten by 17 points. That was in 2009 and two years later we were lifting Sam. In such a short space of time things changed and it’s something we are conscious of in the Dublin team,” O’Sullivan explained. Dublin will have to be at their best once more if Jim Gavin is going to become the first manager of the county to win back-to-back All-Ireland titles, but winning Leinster tends to prove a lot less of a challenge. This has led many pundits to claim that Dublin will continue to win the provincial title regardless of the teams they face, but Kilmacud Crokes man O’Sullivan explains how the players put this kind of talk out of their
Dublin star Cian O’Sullivan was speaking at the launch of deodorant brand Sure becoming the GAA’s first official statistics partner. Picture: Kevin Goss-Ross
minds. “That is not something Dublin players concern themselves with or worry about. Our aim going out every year is to be the best football team we can be and to get to an All-Ireland final, and if we can get there, to win it.” All-Ireland season
absence of full-back Rory O’Carroll but O’Sullivan believes they can cope without the All-Star. “Any of the guys who have been playing in our full-back line to date have all been well capable and very good players. The direct ball and the high ball is always a threat
--------------------------------------------------------
‘We got beaten by 17 points. Two years later, we were lifting Sam.’ - Dublin defender Cian O’Sullivan
--------------------------------------------------------
generally sees the papers plastered day after day with talk of whether anybody will be good enough to halt the Dublin juggernaut. Handling the expectation and hype is another animal that has changed from being perennial under-achievers to now being the side teams try to shoot down. “There are some guys that can deal with it easily and some guys that can’t. I suppose it’s about knowing whether you’re a guy who can read the papers and subsequently shut that all that stuff out. Everyone is different; it’s about realising what works for you,” said O’Sullivan. Lately, a lot of this talk has been about Dublin’s supposed vulnerability under the high ball, particularly with the
with or without Rory in the full-back line. It is always something we try to do and other teams try to do. It can be a dangerous play so it is something we are constantly working on.” Dublin’s win over Meath was their 17th in succession in the Leinster Championship and sees them through to their 11th provincial title in the last 12 years. Understandably, O’Sullivan is enjoying lining out for the Dubs but knows that winning won’t always come so easy. “It’s a great time to be playing football with Dublin but we’re conscious that it won’t last forever.” The Leinster final will take place at Croke Park against Westmeath on July 17 at 4pm.
FastSport
Sundrive sees Irish shine at track international THE HOME crowd’s appetite for success was sated at the Dublin Track Cycling International at Sundrive as Ireland landed two gold medals, three silver and a bronze last weekend. The event is one of the main events on the Irish cycling calendar and the home crowd boosted riders from across the island as they took on world class riders from across Europe. In the individual pursuit, track newcomers Eileen Burns and Marc Potts impressed with gold and silver respectively in the race against the clock. Josie Knight came agonisingly close to a win in the women’s omnium while Eimear Moran stormed to victory in the women’s Keirin. Sprint specialist Eoin Mullen powered through the weekend to win silver in the sprint and bronze in the men’s Keirin. The results in the individual pursuit were particularly impressive with Burns and Potts only recently turning their attention to track racing. Burns has been making her mark in Irish racing in time trialling, with this weekend being her first foray into track racing: “This is my first time competing on the track, and the first time doing a full pursuit. This morning was the first time I ever used a start gate.” Potts has spent the winter training on the track, and was pleased to get a medal “I’m fairly new to the track stuff so it was good to get a medal. In Portugal, a few weeks ago, I came fourth and just missed out on a medal.” Another rider who has been focusing on the track over the winter is former rower Eimear Moran. Moran switched her attention to the track last summer, winning multiple national titles across the board. Moran won the Keirin in a straight final, enjoying this sprint event in particular saying “it’s great from the point of view that you are left off at speed, so that’s the bit I love because it is just flat out then. You build and build and build and then it’s flat out.” This was the fourth year that Ireland has hosted the Dublin Track Cycling International, and it benefits significantly from the support of Dublin City Sports and Wellbeing Partnership.
Gazette
28 BLANCH gazette 7 July 2016
SPORT
FastSport
Corduff summer mini leagues all set for action CORDUFF FC will host its mini-leagues for ages five to 12, starting on July 18 at Corduff sports campus. Registration is €10 per player and after last summer’s enormous success, these mini leagues look likely to be bigger than ever. To register, visit the club office or contact corduff. fc@gmail.com for inquiries. On July 16, the club will once again carry out its open day trials to welcome new players while the day is also open for the nursery for four, five and six-year-olds which costs €2 per week. Membership costs €15 at the start of season fee and a further €5 or €6 per week during the season. Elsewhere, the club’s senior sides are starting to go back to pre-season training this week in Damastown. The club have added a new senior Saturday side that will play in the LSL and this side is deigned for players aged 18, 19 and upward who are moving in to senior football for the first time. The club’s first team are also back training after last season’s promotion, moving them to within one division off intermediate football. They are putting the call out for any players, saying if you are “a decent footballer who has commitment, you should reach out to us as this is a young and upcoming side”. Contact Corduff.fc@gmail.com for more information.
Westmanstown teen tag event gets under way WESTMANSTOWN RFC is adding a new string to its bow with Teen Tag kicking off on Thursday, July 7 which will take place in St Catherine’s Park thanks to assistance from Fingal Co
Council. Teen Tag will be open to boys and girls ages 13 to 17 and will run for six weeks. It will cost €2 per week with offers when you sign up for more. Everyone is welcome, email Westmanstownteentag@ gmail.com for more information or find the club on Facebook.
Athletics: aoife bound for georgia after series of top runs
Donore sprinter Lynch off to Euros karl graham
sport@dublingazette.com
DONORE Harriers AC sprinter Aoife Lynch has fought off stiff competition to qualify for the upcoming European youth athletics championships in Tblisi, Georgia which starts on July 14. Lynch, an aspiring engineer from Castleknock, will compete in the 200m after setting a time of 24.57s in the recent Irish championships. The Europeans are a biennial competition for athletes under the age of eighteen, created to promote the sport among young people in Europe. Each country can send a maximum of two athletes per event. Aoife’s father Conor Ly nch spoke to the
Gazette of his daughter’s delight at making the team, saying: “This is her first Irish vest so she’s delighted”. “She was always a good runner so she got involved in schools’ athletics. “One of the coaches from Donore saw her competing in schools one day and asked her to come down to the club. From there, she just took off over the last few years,” said Lynch. Athletics Ireland reduced the qualif ying time to 24.9s from the European Athletics Association time of 25.2, in order to give their athletes a feasible chance of doing well but Lynch made it well under that mark is confident she can reach the final in the international competition.
Phoenix rising Anders named in Irish Under-19 cricket side phoenix’s Rory Anders has been named
in the Irish Under-18 cricket squad for their upcoming series of matches against Scotland at Drummond and Bready between July 25 and 29. “The squad will have a familiar look to it as 11 of the players played in the recent ICC Under 19 World Cup in Bangladesh,” said Irish head coach Ryan Eagleson with Anders among that experienced group, capturing 13 wickets at the event.
Castleknock’s Aoife Lynch has earned a place at the European Youth Championships
The qualifying time had to be reached over a number of races, leaving Aoife in a battle with several girls vying for the same position. She eventually set the best time and her progress has made athletics become a big part of her life now. Lynch believes that his daughter’s success so far can inspire her to stick with it and one day reach the top of the sport. “I do [think she can reach the top] because this is really driving her
on now and she is looking at college scholarships, which drives it further. “She’s on the lookout for a college now and while a lot of the Dublin colleges would take her, there are scouts calling from the US as well,” Lynch said. She is one of a number of runners from the Donore club who have been named in international teams for the coming weeks. Sean Lawlor produced one of the performances of the weekend despite
adverse weather conditions at the GloHealth National Junior and U-23 track and field championships in Tullamore. The Donore man won the junior men’s 100m in 10.85 seconds from Tallaght’s Joseph Ojewumi in 10.94 and Eoin Doherty in 10.98. I t m e a n t L aw l o r pinned down his place at the world junior championships where he will be joined in the side by Ojewumi in the 4x100m relay in Bydgosczc, Poland.
7 July 2016 BLANCH gazette 29
Gazette
charity football
Sherlock lines out in memory of Aine Chawke
Club Noticeboard st brigid’s
jason Sherlock was among the legends in
action last Saturday at Somerton Park for a charity football match in aid of St Francis Hospice and the Mater Foundation. The event was inspired by the memory of the late Aine Chawke, an ardent Castleknock supporter whose family are part of the fabric of the club. Ciaran Kilkenny refereed the game. Picture: Shay Hogan
ladies football: under-14 side’s brilliant gesture
CONGRATULATIONS to Johnny McGuirk
purchase online via our website: www.
and his Dublin minor hurling team on
stbrigidsgaa.com.
winning the Leinster final on Sunday,
St Brigid’s are saddened to announce
especially to St Brigid’s players Jack
the passing of Fr Michael Russell, son of
O’Neill, Cian O’Sullivan, Donnacha
the Late Tom Russell. The trustees and
Ryan, Johhny McGuirk Junior and
members of St Brigid’s wish to extend
David Hawkshaw.
our deepest sympathies to the Russell
St Brigid’s will have three summer
family on the death of Michael. Ar dheis
camps in Russell Park this July and
De go raibh a anam uasal. Fr Michael’s
August. Week 1: July 11-15, club camp;
funeral will take place in South Africa.
Week 2: August 15-19, Kellogg’s Cul
A mass in Dublin will be arranged at a
Camp; Week 3: August 23-26, nursery
later date.
camp. For further information, see the club website.
St Brigid’s has 10 Gaeltacht scholarships available for members. The
The St Brigid’s nursery is now on a
scholarships are available to mem-
summer break and will return in Sep-
bers in first to fifth year for July 24
tember.
to August 14. For further informa-
The lotto jackpot carries over at €15,000 for this week’s draw in Myos on Friday, July 8. Make sure to have your tickets in the draw or you can
tion, contact Stephen Moore on 087 6339238/s_moore64@hotmail.com. St Brigid’s has been nominated for the Tesco Community fund.
castleknock AN UNBELIEVABLE demonstration of
sponsor Tigers Childcare. Thanks also
community spirit was evident at the
to Get Fresh in Laurel Lodge who sup-
Give Cancer the Boot legends match
plied the kids with healthy fruit at the
and auction on Saturday. The events
nursery on Saturday.
were in aid of The Mater Foundation
The senior adult hurlers had a great
and St Francis Hospice and in memory
win over Raheny but went down to
of club member Aine Chawke.
Boden. The Division 1 footballers take
Sincere thanks to all our legends, both famous and otherwise. The brilThe St Brigid’s Under-14 side that won the ladies football Division 1 regional Feile.
Brigid’s and Rock’ share Feile trophy
regional div 1 feile sport@dublingazette.com
ST BRIGID’S Under14 ladies footballers produced a superb performance to claim ladies football glor y at the John West Division 1 regional Feile in Abbotstown The competition featured teams from eight counties with the Russell Park club representing Dublin. They started the tournament off strongly with a comprehensive win against K ilkenny City. T his was followed by a win against Walterstow n
from Meath. Coming to the third of their group matches, both St Brigid’s and Kilkerrin Clonberne, the 2015 champions, were both unbeaten and they duly fought out a tightly contested match where a goal from the last score of the match sealed victory for the Dublin 15 side. It allowed the girls to progress to the final where they were to meet Rockbn from Cork. This proved to be a highly competitive match and despite extra time, both teams could not be separated and remained
level at 2-3 each. The game had to be decided on the best of five free kicks from both teams. The Blanch girls showed great courage in their execution of their free kicks with Brigid’s coming out on top. H av i n g f o u g h t s o hard and as the final was played in such good spirit, both sets of mentors agreed they would share the winners shield with St Brigid’s bringing the shield back to Russell Park. There, they celebrated with the St Brigid’s seniors who had been part of the Dublin side that
had just defeated Meath in their senior Leinster championship tie. The girls now look for ward to hosting Rockban in a friendly in six months’ time where they will hand over the shield in a super gesture between the clubs and a fitting end to a great day of ladies Gaelic football. It adds to the local areas success on the national stage at this level of competition, coming in the same week that Castleknock’s footballers won the boys national Feile crown in Kerry,.
on Na Fianna in Somerton on Saturday at 6.30pm.
liant Garda Band, all the marvellous
Great away win for the Minor A
volunteers and all who contributed to
footballers over Isles of the Sea. The
such an amazing day. It was a proud
minors Bs went down against St Cath-
day for the Chawke and O’Callaghan
erine’s.
families.
Tickets for the Leinster football final
Best wishes to all attending the Kel-
need to be ordered by Saturday, July 9.
logg’s Cul camp this week. A week of
Text Lisa on 086 1022296. Our 2005/06
fun, friendship making and skills. Our
boys hosted Clairnbridge from Gal-
nursery takes a summer break but it’s
way on Sunday and both sets of lads
a good opportunity to sincerely thanks
enjoyed the encounter.
all those who help out on a weekly basis and, particularly, our nursery
The club are running a Capture the Crest photography competition.
garda/westmanstown gaels THE intermediates lost away in a
U-14 development panels for the past
league tie at Ballymun Kickhams. On
few months, representing the club and
Saturday evening, the action is away
themselves with great distinction.
at Naomh Barrog with a 6pm start also in the league.
Five of our players Aaron Rice, David Griffin, Jamie McGovern, Luke
The juniors play on Sunday away to
Curran and Senan Forker have made
Scoil Ui Chonail with an 11am throw in.
it through to the next phase of the
The ladies lost to St Maurs in the
development programme for the
championship last week.
summer.
Our minors continued their good
Thanks to all who participated in our
form beating Castleknock on Sunday
recent golf classic at Westmanstown
morning on a 4-18 to 1-6 scoreline.
and congratulations to all those who
Two league games left against St
won prizes. A special word of appreci-
Jude’s and Ballyboden and both games
ation to DID Electrical who sponsored
are expected to be fixed in the next
the occasion.
fortnight. Congratulations to our U-14 boys who have been involved with the Dublin
All club mentors and team managers are reminded that deadline for club notes is 8pm on Sunday evening.
GazetteSPORT all of your blanch sports coverage from page 26-29
july 7-13, 2016
fluting around for Cian: Sprint queen: Aoife Lynch wins place at European No O’Sullivan rejects suggestion junior championships after breakthrough win P28 Dubs going through motions P27
St Brigid’s Jack O’Neill and Johnny McGuirk Junior with the Leinster minor hurling trophy
Brigid’s famous five Club manager hails efforts of Russell Park club’s players who played a pivotal role in Dublin’s win over Wexford to claim the Leinster minor title
karl graham+
sport@dublingazette.com
DUBLIN’S minor hurling team were crowned Leinster champions last Sunday in Croke Park after scoring two late goals to see off Wexford 2-12 to 0-12 with the help of five St Brigid’s players. Jack O’Neill, Donnacha Ryan, Cian O’Sullivan and Johnny McGuirk all started the game, while David Hawkshaw entered the fray from the bench at the 40-minute mark. And St Brigid’s minor manager Donal Smyth spoke to the GazetteSport about the pride the whole club felt at having five play-
ers in the team. “We are very proud to have five players on the one team; it’s a huge achievement for any club,” said Smyth. The talented five have all played together from a young age and were part of the St Brigid’s side who won both the football and hurling All-Ireland Feile’s four years ago. “There is a great future in store for the lads and the club, and we are looking forward to watching them play senior for the club and keeping the great success going.” Smyth said that knowing and playing with each other for so long has been a boost to their performances and believes Dublin are starting to reap the benefits.
“Some of them have played senior already and fitted in very easily so I think they can all definitely make the step up to the senior team,” said Smyth. In the final itself, Wexford sprang out of the traps first to register two early points before forcing a superb vital save from Dublin goalkeeper Dara De Poire. The Dubs managed to draw level with two placed balls from Colin Currie who, after Wexford went one point clear once more, finally scored their first from play in the 16th minute. Donal Burke hit a hat-trick of points to give Dublin a bit of breathing space and with both teams scoring two points apiece, including a
long range beauty from McGuirk, the score at the interval saw Dublin lead by 0-8 to 0-6. Dublin started to get dominate more of the ball in the last quarter of the game but a failure to land several scores left them vulnerable to a Wexford comeback, which came in the form of four unanswered points to put them a point clear with just five minutes left on the clock. However, it was Dublin who finished the stronger and when they complimented two more points with goals from McGuirk and Donal Burke, they landed their first Leinster title in four years. Next up for Dublin will be an All-Ireland semi-final.