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Gazette WIN BLANCH

February 9 - 15, 2017

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A ROMANTIC NIGHT AWAY FOR TWO INCLUDING DINNER AT THE FOUR-STAR CASTLEKNOCK HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB

Enjoy an evening meal at the YOUR L I O P S T R award-winning Park Restaurant HEA T E E W S T THIS SNE’S Bed & Breakfast at the beautiful TI Castleknock Hotel & Country Club VALENAY D

Detai ls on Page 20

Pals complete late friend’s quilt, raise €2.5K for hospice  AISLING KENNEDY

Rose’s quilt raised €2,430 for charity

A GROUP of ladies from the Blanchardstown Guild of the ICA have paid a moving tribute to their late friend – by completing a quilt she had started before sadly passing away from cancer in 2013.

Rose was the craft teacher for the Blanchardstown Guild of the Irish Countrywomen’s Association for more than 20 years.

The impressive quilt, which took more than two years to finish, was raffled off recently in aid of St Francis

Hospice in Blanchardstown and the ladies in the ICA raised a staggering €2,430 for the hospice.

Maureen Caffrey, a close friend of Rose and one of the ICA ladies who completed the quilt, told The Gazette that Rose was one

of a kind and is missed very much.

She added that she knows Rose would be proud of her fellow ICA craftswomen for completing the quilt and raising money for the hospice in her memory.

Full Story on Page 3

2 BLANCH GAZETTE 9 February 2017

RETAIL | FEARS OF ‘TRAFFIC CHAOS’ IF STORE GOES AHEAD

Lidl plans spark a lot of Castleknock opposition  AISLING KENNEDY PLANS for Lidl to build a mixed-use development in Castleknock village were called “appalling” and “the wrong type of development for Castleknock” by opposition groups at the latest session of an An Bord Pleanala oral hearing into the project.

At the oral hearing this week, Cllr John Walsh (Lab) said it would be “an appalling vista for traffic in Castleknock village”.

He added: “It will cause traffic chaos and heavy overflow parking in local estates. It is also the wrong type of development for the historic village of Castleknock.”

Lidl were granted planning permission by Fingal County Council last September to build a Lidl supermarket, eight apartments, a medical centre, a number of other retail units, and 98 parking spots.

However, Cllr Walsh queried the figures presented by Lidl for traffic flows and car parking in the proposed mixed-use development.

He said: “The required level of car parking for this development is hopelessly underestimated.

The information presented by the developer is based on the TRICS database, which overwhelmingly has evidence from sites in the south of

No thank you ... Local representatives have highlighted a number of reasons why they don’t want a Lidl store

England.”

He said the evidence is “misleading” and is based on inappropriate locations which are not relevant to the current application.

Deputy Joan Burton

(Lab) also expressed her opposition to the development in her submission at the oral hearing and said the scheme is incompatible with the Architectural Conservation Area.

She also said the development does not respect the heritage and distinctive character of the village of Castleknock.

Deputy Burton said: “We recognise the need for development at this site, but this is the wrong development in the wrong place and should be reconsidered by the board.”

Both politicians appealed to An Bord Pleanala to refuse permission for the development, saying it is totally inconsistent with the local area.

Cllr Walsh added: “It is located in the worst possible place for a supermarket, at a crossroads, which is already a magnet for traffic congestion.”

That’s Zhao you do a great doodle CASTLEKNOCK College second year student Danny Zhao has every reason to smile – his creative doodle has made it through to the finals of the annual Doodle 4 Google competition. He was congratulated by his teacher, Darran Shiels, with the pair well aware of the prestige in getting into the final 75 of the massively popular national competition. This year, more than 4,200 students across the country picked up their pens, pencils and crayons to enter this year’s, with the winning doodle to appear on the Google home page in April.

9 February 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 3

PEOPLE | WOMEN FINISH LATE FRIEND’S QUILT – AND RAISE €2,400 FOR ST FRANCIS HOSPICE

Crafting the perfect tribute  AISLING KENNEDY A GROUP of friends recently completed a beautiful quilt in memory of their friend and craft teacher, Rose Harris, who passed away in 2013.

Following Rose’s death three years ago, a bag with a couple of pieces of the unfinished quilt which Rose was working on was passed to the Blanchardstown Guild of the Irish Countrywomen’s Association (ICA) by chance, and the ICA ladies decided to honour their friend’s memory by finishing the quilt.

Maureen Caffrey, from the ICA Blanchardstown Guild, spoke to The Gazette this week about working on the quilt. She said Rose was one of a kind and is missed very much.

“Rose was a very good friend and also our craft teacher within the ICA. We met her more than 20 years ago, and from there we had her as our teacher almost constantly every Monday until a few years ago when she moved to Kilkenny with her hus-

band, Tony.”

Maureen explained that even when Rose (above) moved to Kilkenny, the close-knit craft group still kept in touch and travelled up and down to see each other regularly.

Sadly, in 2013, Rose was diagnosed with lung cancer and passed away after a few months.

“When Rose realised that the treatment wasn’t working, she began to give away pieces and fabrics that she was working on and she passed

this bag on to a friend of hers.

“By chance, this friend met a member of our Monday morning craft group, and she passed it on to us. So it was like Rose was on a mission to get this quilt to us! We decided then to take it on.”

Maureen said it took a group of more than eight women from the ICA’s Blanchardstown Guild almost two years to finish the quilt, along with the help of master quilt maker Pat O’Looney, from the Botanic/Glasnevin Guild.

The finished quilt was completed in a traditional American style, called ‘the log cabin design’.

Following the completion of the quilt, the ICA ladies raffled it off, and raised a total of €2,430 to present to the St Francis Hospice in Blanchardstown.

Maureen said: “Rose would’ve been over the moon at the finished quilt. I know certainly her husband Tony was. He was delighted, and his words were that ‘Rose would’ve been overly proud of her craftswom-

ICA quilters Marie O’Neill, Pat O’Looney and Maureen Caffrey; (right) Jane Jones, Mary Kenny and Eleanor Hewitt

en in Blanchardstown’.

“We knew that Rose would be proud. This is why her bag came into our possession – for us to do something positive with it in her memory.”

4 BLANCH GAZETTE 9 February 2017

CASTLEKNOCK | LOCAL PRAISES OPPORTUNITIES GAINED FROM RENEWED PROGRAMME

Gas apprenticeship skills light up a new career path  EMMA NOLAN

A CASTLEKNOCK man who was chosen as one of 14 Gas Networks Ireland apprentices last year has said he has learnt “so much” one year into the programme.

Conor Maher began exploring apprenticeship opportunities after completing sixth year in St Vincent’s Castleknock College last year.

In 2015, Gas Networks

Ireland – the owner and operator of Ireland’s natural gas network – launched its first apprenticeship programme in more than 30 years.

The apprenticeship programme was launched to ensure the company could attract and nurture top talent to continue to deliver on its operational and strategic objectives.

The programme provides mentor-led apprenticeships in

mechanical automation and maintenance fitting, electrical instrumentation and pipe fitting.

Conor was one of 14 apprentices chosen and has been working with his mentor, Frank Gooding, for the past year.

Conor said: “My dad was an electrician, and I grew up doing odd-jobs with him and always really enjoyed it.

“In preparation for my Leaving Cert English exam, my teacher –

Mr Deasy – encouraged me to read a newspaper every weekend, which is how I came across the ad for the apprenticeship programme.

“The apprenticeship provided me with a chance to get the best of both worlds, to study and get hands-on experience in a trade I was interested in.

“I have learnt so much in my first year. Having a partnership with a mentor and a great team to learn from means I have had an all-encompassing learning experience this year; a mix of practical and academic.”

Frank Gooding, Conor’s mentor, said: “It has been really fulfilling to see the huge amount of progress Conor has made this year.

“In my early years, I

Castleknock man Conor Maher (right) with his Gas Networks Ireland mentor Frank Gooding: ““The apprenticeship provided me with a chance to ... study and get hands-on experience in a trade I was interested in”

worked with the one of the last apprentices Gas Networks Ireland took on, more than 30 years ago.

President Trump’s travel ban affects Blanch man’s court case A TRIAL at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court has been delayed because a Pakistani witness living in America is worried he won’t be allowed home if he comes to Ireland to give evidence.

A trial of George Cristo (43), of Cherryfield Close, Blanchardstown, who faces three charges under the Theft and Fraud Offences Act 2001, was due to take place in two weeks but has been adjourned because of the witness’s difficulties.

Fiona McGowan BL told Judge Melanie Greally that the witness is living and working in America.

His native country of Pakistan is not on the list of seven countries whose residents have been banned from entering America under President Donald Trump’s recent executive order. However, the witness is worried the order may be expanded.

Judge Greally agreed to adjourn the case, with Mr Cristo due before the court again on February 15.

Great gala fundraising night to help support St Francis Hospice A GALA night in aid of St Francis Hospice in Blanchardstown is taking place this Saturday, February 11 at 8pm.

Good Works Opera will be performing alongside special guests. Taking place in St Brigid’s Church of Ireland in Castleknock village, tickets priced €20 will be available at the door, and from Rachel Devlin; call 086 239 4397.

“I’m delighted that the company relaunched their apprenticeship programme last year, and it has been a real learning

experience for me, too – learning how to concisely explain the way we do what we do to the company’s newest talent.”

9 February 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 5

6 BLANCH GAZETTE 9 February 2017

GazetteGALLERY

| PARENTS AND PUPILS GATHER TO CELEBRATE INCLUSION

3rd and 4th classs students

Joining in the fun of the community day celebrations

Fifth and sixth class students

School manager Ian Murphy cutting the community day cake, as fifth and sixth class students look on

Community joy at Scoil Choilm NS

S

COIL Choilm Community National School in Porterstown, Dublin 15 recently held a Community Day where students of all ages performed in front of their parents, teachers and invited guests. Parents were invited to bring in food and celebrate with the students, which they did in abundance. A vast range of food was on display all day, so everyone went home with full bellies and a happy heart. Ian Murphy, manager at Scoil Choilm NS, also helped out on the day by cutting the community day cake with the fifth and sixth class pupils. The school thanked all those who took part on the day and everyone who came along to support the day at Scoil Choilm

George Basco, Hawa Doumbouya, Caroline Omo-denabu and Eveline Alle. Pictures: Alison O’Hanlon

9 February 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 7

AND FRIENDSHIP FOR EVERYONE ATTENDING A BUSY PORTERSTOWN SCHOOL

Roxanna and Alicia Plesca

Many pupils entertained the gathered guests

Dania Guettiar

Claudia and Emma Farcau

Sussan,Jermaine and Manny Owusu

8 BLANCH GAZETTE 9 February 2017

COMMUNITY | KIDS GO GAA GAA FOR ST BRIGID’S POPULAR NURSERY PROGRAMME

‘Give that X Box a rest and put your skills to the test’  JAMES HENDICOTT BASED around fun but integrating all the skills necessary for youngsters to develop into GAA players in either code, St Brigid’s well-run nursery is going from strength to strength.

Under the dual-management of Dave Galway and former Laois county football star John O’Loughlin, the club has developed into a serious offering for four to seven year olds.

They’ve grown from 60-70 regular attendees a couple of years ago to attracting 130 in the 4-6 age group every week. A further 90 or so seven year olds form into teams for the first time.

“The idea is to give the kids a gra for it,” Galway told the Blanch

Gazette.

“We want them to want to come back. What we do is set-up firststep bases that do stuff like basic skills: How to hold a hurley, movement skills, turning, basic things like that.

“We do twelve stations every session, six football and six hurling.

“We have the kind of backing from parents now where the sessions would run without us, which is fantastic.

“Most of the coaches are parents or players from the club.

“I don’t think the kids realise who someone like John [O’Loughlin] is at that age but they’ll grow up and realise what he’s done in the game.

“Having players like that around the club and involved is a great thing for the club.”

The Nursery at St Brigid’s, just off the Navan Road Russell Park, ru in ns every Saturday from 9.30 to 11am Just go the We lcome Stand at the club house tea room, where a partner for yo ur child will be arranged thro ugh the Nurser y’s Buddy System

There are benefits for the club in the longer term, of course. Brigid’s “feed” of players is substantial, with a large number of minor players progressing to senior panels in recent years.

Galway has seen progress in the club as a result of getting players hooked young. However,he is keen to emphasize that results for the younger sides are really not a priority.

“It’s nice to win trophies, of course,” he says. “But it’s really technique that is more important.

One thing we noticed when kids start playing later is that in some cases they don’t have fundamental movement skills.

“These sports are very technical, and you learn to read the game and to move within the game better when you grow up with it. By start-

To find out mor e, call Yvonne on 086 854 8282

ing young, players have that.

“The club is really moving in the right direction,” he concludes, “and the progress in the nursery section compared to a few years ago is incredible.

“We take care of the performance, and the results take care of themselves.”

Galway and his St Brigid’s team are keen to invite anyone interested down to the weekly nursery meets, which take place from 9.30 to 11 every Saturday morning at Russell Park.

Yo u n g s t e r s c a n j o i n S t Brigid’s for an annual fee o f € 10 0 , a f t e r w h i c h n o additional fees are payable for sessions.

All match and safety equipment beyond basic sports clothing is provided.

9 February 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 9

FASTNews

Mater Hospital wins award for its compliance on data quality

MATER Misericordiae University Hospital has received a National Treatment Purchase Fund (NTPF) Data Quality Award for achieving compliance with the NTPF’s hospital waiting list Data Quality Standards. The NTPF’s Chairman John Horan (left) presented the award to Mater Misericordiae University Hospital, Mark Jeffrey at the NTPF’s inaugural symposium “Working Together for Patient Treatment”, held at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham.

Picture: Conor McCabe Photography

Love is in the air at Dublin Zoo LOVE is in the air this Valentine’s Day at Dublin Zoo with a special event for couples.

On February 11 and 12 at 8am, Dublin Zoo will exclusively open its doors to 100 couples for what will be a memorable, love-filled morning.

Upon entry, couples will collect a romantic breakfast picnic from Haughton House before experiencing the early morning sights and sounds of the Zoo. Over the course of this special event, the animal care team will host themed keeper talks on breeding, courtship and the romantic rituals of some of the zoo’s animals.

COURTS | CAR WAS BRIEFLY AIRBORNE AFTER THIEF LOST CONTROL

Stolen BMW took to the air during chase A DISQUALIFIED driver who stole a BMW after the owner accidentally left the keys inside later crashed it while “out of his mind” on drugs and tablets, a court has heard.

J o n a t h a n C o nw ay (35), of Delhurst Avenue, Blanchardstown, lost control of the car at a roundabout while being pursued by gardai and the vehicle briefly became airborne before hitting a lamppost and wall.

Conway has 112 convictions, mainly for road traffic and public order offences, theft and failing to appear in court.

Conway pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to taking pos-

The courts heard a Blanch man was ‘out of his mind’ on drugs and tablets when he stole a BMW

session of a car without the consent of the owner, dangerous driving, driving without insurance and refusing to give a blood or urine sample at locations in south county Dublin on July 1, 2016.

Conway, formerly of Haven House, Morning-

star Avenue, Dublin 7, is currently in custody.

Judge Melanie Greally adjourned sentencing until May to allow further reports to be prepared and ordered Conway to undergo urine analysis.

Garda Paul Byrne told Maurice Coffey BL, pros-

ecuting, that he was on routine mobile patrol on the Wyattville dual carriageway when he saw a black BMW change lanes without indicating. He said he activated the siren and lights and the BMW “shot off like a rocket”.

He said further down the road the driver attempted to turn left at the roundabout at The Graduate pub but the driver, Conway, lost control of the car and it briefly became airborne before hitting a lamp post and the wall of the pub grounds.

Two female passengers in the car were treated for minor injuries. The car which had been taken earlier in Killiney was written

off. Conway did not have a valid driving licence or insurance and admitted taking the car.

The court heard that the owner had mistakenly left her keys inside her car, parked outside her home.

Conway was taken to St Vincent’s Hospital where he refused to supply a sample of blood or urine.

Garda Byrne agreed with defence counsel, Luigi Rea BL, that at the time of the offence Conway appeared to be “out of his mind” on heroin, alcohol and tablets. He agreed that Conway was co-operative with gardai.

The court will hear a full plea in mitigation from Mr Rea on the next date.

10 GAZETTE 9 February 2017

GazetteGALLERY

| SHOWCASE – IRELAND’S INTERNATIONAL CREATIVE EXPO –

The best of Irish creativity on show Ann Mulcrone, Mairead Whisker and Mary Donohoe. Pictures: Sasko Lazarov / Photocall Ireland

Luna Young and Nikki O’Callaghan

T

HE best of Irish crafts were on display at Showcase – Ireland’s International Creative Expo – which returned to the RDS last weekend. The event has established itself as a must-see trade show, attracting thousands of buyers from Ireland and more than 20 other countries keen to view the latest collections from 450 Irish designers, manufacturers and craftspeople across fashion, jewellery and home and giftware. New for this year was TextISLE, an initiative focusing on the creative potential of Irish textiles in fashion and homeware.

Denis Kenny and Fiona Gilboy-Kenny

Sonia Reynolds and Nuala Goodman

Orla Langan and Suzi Coogan

Helen Delany and Brenda Aherne

9 February 2017 GAZETTE 11

FEATURES TOP IRISH DESIGNERS, MANUFACTURERS AND CRAFTSPEOPLE

Deirdre McQuillan and Peter O’Brien

Natalie B Coleman and Angela O’Kelly

Halle Steele and Helen Steele

Brenda Aherne, Rebecca Morgan and Jan Brierton

GAZETTE

12 GAZETTE 9 February 2017

DUBLINBUSINESS

OPINION

The Help to Buy Scheme Grant needs to be extended now  MICHAEL RUSSELL

FINANCIAL SERVICES LIMITED

FIRSTLY the good news….first time buyers have further incentive to go house-hunting.

So how does it work; The scheme will provide a rebate of income tax, paid over four years prior to buying up to a maximum of 5% of the purchase price of the home valued at up to € 400,000.

Houses valued at up to € 600,000 are also included but the maximum benefit is € 20,000. The rebate will apply to First Time Buyers buying newly built homes and people building one-off houses, and no relief will be given to those buying second-hand houses.

This is where we have shared concerns with the market. The question is: Why is the incentive limited to first time buyers and does not currently apply to those who are seeking to trade up or indeed people who previously owned a home – but have since sold.

This latter group are in the exact same position as the first time buyers but find themselves at a distinct disadvantage!

This makes no sense and smacks of a decision which favours only one sector of the market – of course there many reasons why this might be so but it does not take a great leap of faith to suggest that this incentive is primarily in place to encourage developers to fast track starter homes for first time buyers.

The stark reality of Ireland Inc. is that we completed circa 15,000 units during 2016 and it is estimated that we will require in the order of up to 30,000 in 2017 just to meet current demand.

Hence it stands to reason that to meet the pent up demand – which won’t happen overnight - developers need to be encouraged to build new homes and this is a good thing for the overall economy.

We would be advocating that whatever about not extending this deal to ‘second hand homes’ that the deal should be extended to both first time buyers and those who previously sold their principal private residence and are currently in rental accommodation.

So in summary we very much welcome the increase in units being built – people need homes – but let’s not forget the tax payer effectively meets the cost of this rebate so is it not only reasonable to suggest that this initiative is available to the majority of homebuyers than simply limit it to one sector of the housing market.

Alison Miller presents Eimhear Kelly with a €500 voucher

Alison Flaherty presents Anthony and Janet Fitzgerald with a €2,500 voucher

Greg Mitchell presents Phil Armstrong with a €1,500 voucher

Winning thousands was EZ for shoppers ALL good things must come to an end, and EZ Living’s Golden Ticket giveaway was no exception. However, during its month-long run the promotion linked to the furniture chain’s biggest ever sale saw several lucky winners presented with thousands of euro worth of vouchers.

With prizes to give away ranging from €50 right up to €2,500, the

hugely popular giveaway helped to promote the furniture experts’ giant sale at its several outlets.

With more than €10,000 given away each week, the popular ticket helped drive footfall, adding to the already notable consumer interest in the new year bargains during the month-long sale. Pictured are some of the winners and EZ Living staff presenting their respective prizes.

Microfinance making a big business impact

Shakeel Jeeroburkan, Spice Devils

SOME 73 Dublin businesses benefitted from small loans totalling €1,055,000 from the Governmentfunded not-for-profit lender, Microfinance Ireland (MFI), in 2016, new figures show.

One thriving Dublin business that has benefitted from MFI support is Spice Devils – a company set up by Shakeel Jeeroburkan, selling Mauritian-inspired, freshly-milled spice blends.

After selling in farmers’ markets, the feedback was so positive that he decided to make the leap and devote himself to Spice Devils full-time.

Since drawing down the loan, Spice Devils – which is available in more than 30 SuperValu stores – has won multiple artisan food awards.

Shakeel says: “I would not be where I am today without the support I received from MFI and Local Enterprise Office (LEO) South Dublin.”

In partnership with the network of LEOs, MFI also launched an expert mentoring assistance to its loanapproved applicants in 2016.

Garrett Stokes, chief executive of MFI, said: “We are delighted that so many businesses are availing of

our loans and our mentoring service. The mentoring our clients can receive through the LEOs in Dun Laoghaire, Dublin City, Fingal and South Dublin is hugely beneficial.

Mr Stokes added: “We look forward to working with many more businesses in Dublin in 2017, and helping to spread the economic recovery.

“We encourage start-ups or small business owners who want to expand to get in touch with us directly, or through the LEOs in Dun Laoghaire, Dublin City, Fingal and South Dublin, to see how we can help.”

9 February 2017 GAZETTE 13

HEALTH: TAKE FIVE STEPS TO A BRAND NEW YOU THIS FEBRUARY SEE P15

MOTORING: THE NEW COROLLA PROVES AN EFFORTLESS DRIVING EXPERIENCE SEE P22

DUBLINLIFE Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week

PLAYFUL PORKIE IS A DELIGHTFUL HANDFUL OUR Dog of the Week looking for their #SpecialSomeone* is Porkie, a a male, 10-month old Pit Bull puppy. He is going through his adolescent phase, which means he is a boisterous, playful dog that can become overexcited very easily.

For this reason, Porkie is looking for an adult-only home with experienced owners who can manage his excitability, and who can continue on with his puppy training. He enjoys the company of other dogs, so he could share his home with another confident, playful dog, but he would be equally happy in a home without other pets.

If you can be Porkie’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.

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GAZETTE

TRAVEL: EXPLORE THE WILDS OF BEAUTIFUL CONNEMARA SEE P18

Adam Dalton, Evan Darcy, and Shane Curran

Teens have the code to a whole new world  EMMA NOLAN

THE youth of Dublin may become experts in coding thanks to three teen’s and their bright idea.

Three Dublin teenagers have developed an exciting new product to teach children how to code in a fun and innovative way.

Robotify is the brainchild of Dublin City University students, Adam Dalton (18) and Evan Darcy (18),

along with BT Young Scientist winner, Shane Curran (17).

The DIY robotics kit called Robotify Alpha will teach children from the age of eight upwards how distance sensors, motors and microcontrollers work; the basics in programming and how to write their own code.

This, and future products, will be of interest to parents who would like to introduce their children to the

world of coding and to educators who are interested in starting their own Robotify course.

Adam and Evan met in St Paul’s College, Raheny, and inspired by their love of coding they founded Robotify by running a number of courses and summer camps teaching children the basics in coding and robotics.

Now both first year students in DCU - Adam is studying Business Studies and Evan is studying Engi-

neering - their business is being supported by DCU faculty mentors and DCU Alpha, DCU’s Innovation Campus. It is in DCU Alpha where they 3D print using a homebuilt 3D printer, solder boards and package the final product.

The Robotify Alpha kit is currently available to purchase online via www. robotify.net and it will also be available through Makeshop in the Science Gallery Dublin from February.

14 GAZETTE 9 February 2017

GAZETTE

DUBLINLIFE

DIARY

The hunt is on for the nations best young story makers DO you know a child, or class, with a passion for telling tall tales, writing beautifully creative stories or illustrating?

Imaginosity wants to hear from them, as they launch this year’s hunt for the nation’s best young story makers.

Imaginosity, Dublin’s C h i l d r e n ’s Mu s e u m , joined by their 2017 exper t judging panel is launching its annual 2017 search for Ireland’s best young story makers.

The annual competition, “What’s the Story – A Big Competition for Little Story Makers” celebrating five years of story making this year, is looking for creative young stor y writers, budding poets and young illustrators between the age of three and nine years, to create their very own original stor y using their inspired imaginations, to be in with a chance to win some great prizes.

Winners The competition is open for entries from February 1 and closes on March 31. Winners will be announced at the end of May. Children, parents and schools can find out more about the competition and download an entry pack by going to www.imaginosity.ie.

JOY OF GROWING AND EATING OWN FOOD

SPORTING STARS SET FOR CHARITY EVENT

AT TENTION budding gardeners! Primary schools across Ireland can now apply for free Grow It Yourself (GIY) and Innocent Drinks Sow & Grow packs.

This will be the sixth year of the initiative that will enable 45,000 primary school children across the country to learn how to grow their own food this spring.

Each Sow & Grow pack includes a detailed “how to grow” guide focusing on learning in the classroom, soil, growing pots, seeds and expert food growing kits devised

by GIY and innocent drinks along with details on how to cook and eat the food grown.

Over the last five years this initiative has enabled 100,000 Irish primary school children learn how to grow vegetables in the classroom.

The children not only learn the science of growing, they also experience the joy of growing and eating their own food.

GIY calls this “Food Empathy” a deeper connection with food, which is proven to lead to a healthier life long-term.

Teachers can apply for a free Sow & Grow pack via www.innocentsowandgrow.com.

IRISH sports presenter Darragh Maloney is set to host year’s Annual Sporting Lunch in aid of Fighting Blindness.

Taking place in the Conrad Hotel on Earlsfort Terrace on March 3, this is the 15th year of the popular event which brings legends from horse racing, rugby, football and GAA together to discuss their insights and expertise.

Fighting Blindness is a patient-led charity, working to cure, support and empower the 246,000 people affected by blind-

Helping to launch the national Sow & Grow project at Scoil Thomais in Castleknock are 2nd class students, from left, Georgia Moran, Brian Buie, Kayla O’Gorman, Callum O’Keeffe, Matthew Ryan and Niamh Race with Michael Kelly, Founder of GIY and Blathnaid Mckenna, brand manager innocent drinks Ireland. Picture: Mark Stedman

ness and vision impairment in Ireland.

Special guests Shane Byrne, Stephen Hunt, Nina Carberry, Alan Brogan and David Casey are confirmed to attend on the day.

Funds raised from this event will facilitate research into treatments and cures for blindness, as well as free counselling and peer to peer support service for people and families affected by blind-

ness and vision impairment.

For tickets or more information visit www.

FightingBlindness.ie or call the team on 01 6789004.

APP MAKES PARKING A WHOLE LOT EASIER FINDING parking in the city is being made easier with a new app from DublinTown that provides motorists with the most direct route to

Playwright, screenwriter and director Peter Sheridan helps launch What’s the Story – A Big Competition for Little Story Makers

their chosen carpark or hotel.

The DublinTown parking app is regularly updated with temporary road closures, diversions and roadworks currently happening in the city or due to happen.

The idea behind the app is for commuters to see the available space in carparks and hotels before planning the best route to their destination using the regularly updated built-in maps.

Speaking about the app, Richard Guiney CEO DublinTown said: “Dublin City Centre is currently undergoing significant infrastructural changes.

“The Luas Cross City will be a great addition to the city but it is leading to permanent changes to traffic flow for cars in the city.

“The city is and will remain very much open and accessible to all forms of transport including cars, however, there is a need to educate the public how to get to their chosen destination. “ T h e D u b l i nTow n parking app will do just that. Unlike other traf-

fic aids the DublinTown parking app will be regularly updated to take account of roadworks and diversions and permanent changes such as the College Green bus gate.”

The DublinTown parking app is free to download on both iOS and Android platforms.

GET READY TO RUNAMUCK FOR CHILDLINE AN exhilarating yet messy event will be kicking off this March in aid of ISPCC Childline.

The Runamuck Challenge is a 5.5km (1 lap) or 11k (2 laps) cross-country event over a wet and mucky course with various manmade and natural obstacles like bale “jumps”, net scrambles, super slides, tarzan swings, bridges, ditches, streams, tyres and tunnels.

The event is for walkers, joggers and runners. And not the faint-hearted.

This year’s exhilarating Runamuck event will take place on Saturday, March 11 in the Coolcarrigan Estate in Co Kildare.

You can find more information on ispcc.ie.

9 February 2017 GAZETTE 15

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FEATURE

HEALTH: LIFE COACHING, MINDFULNESS, NUTRITION, HOLISTIC THERAPY, STYLING AND FASHION

Take five steps to a new you The new Steps to A-New-U plan is designed to empower people in making positive life choices, and runs in the Green Isle Hotel in west Dublin.

Inspirational speakers and professionals in the fields of life coaching, mindfulness, nutrition, holistic therapy, styling and fashion will guide participants in tapping into their inner resources to find a more positive and fulfilling approach to life.

The aunua team maintains knowledge is key to finding solutions to life’s challenges and to growing as an individual, so for two hours a week, over five weeks, course participants learn vital life skills in a step by step process.

“We’re talking about simple but effective tools that change lives, and motivational speakers that help encourage and inspire people to take that all-important first step to health and happiness”, Karina Murray, co-founder of aunua says. aunua is the creation of two mums, Karina Murray and Emer McGowan, whose combined skills and experience include fashion designer, life coach, fitness trainer and swimming instructor.

“JUST getting through January is enough for anyone”, jokes life coach Emer McGowan on the question of why the latest aunua health and wellbeing programme kicks off in February! aunua presents a uniquely Irish, no-nonsense approach to helping people overcome life’s challenges, with guidance largely based on the personal experience of the professional contributors.

As a single mother of three young children, Emer McGowan faced the challenges of her marriage break-up and overcoming a subsequent struggle with alcohol.

Having completely turned her life around, Emer achieved her dream of becoming a life coach and runs her own life coaching business, as well as working as a fitness instructor and swimming teacher, running boot camps, and raising money and awareness for suicide prevention and mental health groups.

Karina Murray has established and run her own executive maternity wear business and a property management company, before becom-

WIN

SWIZZELS, makers of the iconic Love Hearts brand, want to offer Gazette readers the opportunity to be sweet to themselves this Valentine’s Day. To WIN this s u p e r sw e e t St Valentine’s Day Hamper of goodies – containing favourite Swizzels treats such as Love Hearts (given the day that’s in it!), Refreshers and Drumsticks along with the hugely popular Squashies

range – simply Like and Share the Love Swizzels post on The D u b l i n G a ze t t e ’ s Facebook page.

• Swizzels have been making Love Hearts for 62 years and produce 1.75 billion sweets every year. The brand is famous for featuring a selection of over 150 traditional romantic messages.

New messages include SKYPE ME, TAKE A SELFIE, YOLO and TWEET ME!

ing a stay at home mum, raising two children.

Through their new aunua venture, the friends hope to introduce programme participants to a new way of thinking, simple practical guidance, and the sharing and encouragement that helps individuals achieve their personal goals.

The five inspirational modules of Steps to A-New-U encourage participants to ‘Be Your Best’, which is focussed on goal-setting and motivation; ‘Think Your Best’, which harnesses mindfulness to help alter the mind-set and deal with everyday challenges; ‘Feel Your Best’, a nutrition coach focussed on health and wellbeing; ‘Connect With Your Best’ which looks at holistic wellness; and ‘Look Your Best’ where a team of stylists share fashion advice and tips on looking and feeling great.

Emer says: “We are two ordinary women who

have faced many of life’s challenges and learnt invaluable lessons. The team of people we are bringing together in aunua are expert in generating positivity and possibility out of negativity, and the programme is for everyone who is looking for a path to a happier and healthier lifestyle in 2017.”

The young Dublin mum recently completed her own ‘22 day push-up challenge’ to raise awareness of PTSD and depression. Her 22 pushups in 22 days became a Facebook hit, with over 98,000 viewers, as Emer posted a different video each day, encouraging others to join her.

In videoing the challenge, Emer also talked about her own personal struggles, in particular surviving her marriage break-up abroad and returning home with three small children. She then battled with alcoholism, but has been sober now for six years, turning her life around and becoming a fitness instructor and life coach to help other people.

Find out more about the 5 Steps to A-New-U programme at www.aunua.ie.

9 February 2017 GAZETTE 17

DUBLINLIFE

FEATURES

OPINION | BARRING MUSLIMS IS WRONG

Ireland must press US President to change his discriminatory law DONALD Trump may have only been inaugurated as America’s new president a little over two weeks ago – but in that time he has already caused extreme controversy through several executive orders which he has issued.

President Trump’s executive order entitled Protecting the Nation From Foreign Terrorist Entry Into the United States has barred entry to the United States of citizens who hold passports from seven predominantly Muslimmajority countries.

It is an order which can clearly be seen to be arbitrary and based on discrimination – not to mention that there have been no terrorist attacks on the USA from the countries chosen.

The executive order’s stated policy is to “protect the United States and its citizens from foreign nationals who intend to commit terrorist attacks in the United States”. However, President Trump’s isolationist approach of cutting the United States from the rest of the world and generalising about different Muslim nations will play right into the hands of the jihadists which he claims he is trying to protect Americans from.

The order also stands contrary to many international human rights laws and treaties which prohibit discrimination on the basis of religion and national origin. In particular, it is a breach of the Protocol Relating to the Status of Refugees which the United States adopted in 1967 – and shows how little regard President Trump is likely to have for these types of treaties over the next four years.

Here in Ireland, there have been calls during the past week from many different politicians and journalists for An

Taoiseach, Enda Kenny, to break with tradition and refuse to attend the White House on St Patrick’s Day as a means of protesting against the policies which President Trump is now pursuing.

While not without merit, I firmly believe that the annual White House visit on St Patrick’s day is something we must continue to partake in, so as to serve the interests of both of our peoples.

Ireland and the US have long enjoyed a special relationship throughout our history, and this special relationship is also one which will long outlive the current policies of the Trump administration. The annual St Patrick’s Day visit is our one opportunity as a small nation to use our influence to further the Government’s objectives for Irish people and our diaspora, face-to-face with the American president.

In particular, it also lets us represent Irish businesses abroad, as well as obtaining relief for the estimated 50,000 undocumented Irish migrants in the US – a matter of upmost importance given President Trump’s current rhetoric surrounding immigration.

In this context, it is also the opportunity for An Taoiseach to have a frank and forthright discussion with President Trump about his current policy objectives, and why he disagrees with them – something which will not be achieved by refusing to communicate, and dampening our relationship with America’s president for the next four years to come. A snub can be ignored, but a confrontation can not.

BALLINTEER-based Senator Neale Richmond (FG) is the Government spokesman on EU Affairs in Seanad Eireann

President Donald Trump’s actions and language have sparked furious political and public condemnation, as well as protests in every corner of the world

MAKE A DATE FOR GREAT TV ONE DUB PULLED ON THE NATION’S HEART STRINGS AS HE TOOK HIS SEARCH FOR MR RIGHT TO RTE’S SMASH-HIT, MUST WATCH SHOW, FIRST DATES

Viewers were treated to some real chemistry between Corkonian David and Dub Paddy.

Screengrabs: RTE Player

 EMMA NOLAN IF EVER there was someone who managed to pull on the entire heartstrings of a nation, it was one Dubliner on RTE’s First Dates last week.

Paddy Smy th from Sutton had us all laughing and crying as we witnessed his blind date with David from Cork.

The two hit it off and the audiences’ joy was palpable. The date was so moving that Paddy’s name was trending on Twitter as it aired.

“I can’t believe it – the amount of coverage I got is insane,” he says.

“I almost cried; I was so

overwhelmed.”

The 28-year-old disability campaigner is well known for his hilarious Snapchat account based around his tag, #MyDisabledLife.

Having been born with Cerebral Palsy in his legs, Paddy uses crutches to walk and uses social media to provide a “noholds barred look into how [he lives his] life and deal with having this condition”.

Official date After the official date in The Gibson, the pair went to The George, where there was “some kissing” according to

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

‘Paddy says that he is using the exposure he’s gained from being on First Dates to shed light on disability awareness’

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

Paddy. “Then it kind of fizzled after that,” he said.

While the two are still texting, the fact that David lives in Cork has been a hindrance.

Paddy says: “We’re both at different stages in our lives. He lives in Cork, I live in Dublin, and any time we arrange to meet up it doesn’t work out, so it almost feels like just a friendship now.

“I need to see him again to see if there’s anything there.”

Having watched the show when it aired last Thursday, Paddy says he was reminded of just how great a time he had with Dave.

“I thought, ‘Oh God, I actually do really like him’, and I think I just forgot a bit.”

U l t i m a t e l y, P a d d y

wants to be with someone who can totally look past his disability and who can have a bit of banter with.

“David was lovely and I really want to see him again but I want to be with someone who’s able to slag me and not be on a pedestal of inspiration to them.”

Highs and lows Having proven to be such a hit with viewers on First Dates, Paddy has now gotten another gig off the back of it, appearing on TV3’s Six O’Clock show every Tuesday to discuss the highs and lows of Irish Celebrity

Masterchef.

“I try to cook some of the dishes from the show, too.”

Paddy says that he is using the exposure he’s gained from being on First Dates to shed light on disability awareness.

“I’m using it to give my own confidence a boost as well. For the first time in ages, I feel attractive.

“But the biggest thing is breaking boundaries.

I’ve never seen, especially in Ireland, a person with a disability talk about it in a really open, honest and funny way.”

First Dates Ireland airs every Thursdays at 9:30pm on RTE2.

For more highlights of Paddy’s social life, see his Instagram feed

To follow Paddy’s story, see https:// www.instagram.com/paddyysmyth/

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DUBLINLOVE

Enjoy rosemantic getaways for two around Ireland

 SYLVIA POWNALL

THE four-star Delphi Resort in Connemara is offering a two-night break with exciting outdoor adventures, breathtaking scenery along the Wild Atlantic Way, sensational food and relaxing spa treatments.

The package includes breakfast, a romantic three-course evening meal, a half-day of adventure activities plus a 30-minute spa treatment and an organic seaweed bath per person.

Offers start at €320PPS – see delphiresort.com or phone 095 42208 for more.

Alternatively, why not melt hearts at the Ice House Hotel in Ballina, Co Mayo? Here, contemporary chic meets traditional elegance on the banks of the River Moy. A one night’s stay in a luxurious river view room with chilled bubbles and chocolate treats on arrival, leisurely breakfast and romantic Table D’Hote dinner, starts from €337 based on two sharing.

Add an in-room Voya seaweed bath for a touch of real indulgence. For further information, call

096 23500 or see www. icehousehotel.ie.

Rediscover romance in the heart of the Kingdom at The Rose Hotel. The charming Valentine’s package gives the option of one or two nights with a specially designed fivecourse his & hers candlelit dinner.

With the option of late check-out, this deal is priced from €144 per room. See www.therosehotel.com or call 066 7199100.

Love is definitely in the air at Inchydoney Island Lodge and Spa where the wild waves of the Atlantic Ocean provide the perfect backdrop. Who can say no to a guestroom with your own private sea-view balcony, a candlelit dinner in The Gulfstream restaurant overlooking the beach, and your choice of Elemis facial or massage?

This two-night break costs from €648 per couple – see www.inchydoneyisland.com.

Snuggle time Head to Waterford for a spot of snuggle time at Faithlegg House Hotel.

Relish the look on your other half’s face as you make your way up the

meandering drive and catch a first glimpe of the 18th century country house in its fairytale setting.

Little touches will make it all the more special – you’ll always remember the rose petals on your bed, tempting handmade chocolates and decadent chocolatedipped strawberries prepared by the hotel’s pastry chef.

This Leisurely Lovers’ Valentine’s package includes one or two nights’ bed and breakfast, one dinner with a glass of bubbles in the two AA Rosettes award winning Roseville Rooms Restaurant, starting from €100PPS. Visit www. faithlegg.com or call 051 382000.

Finally, if you don’t fancy travelling too far, why not explore love in the city at the stylish Radisson Blu Royal Hotel here in Dublin?

This chic overnight package includes dinner and buffet breakfast with a world of entertainment on your doorstep.

The Valentine’s offer starts from €275 per couple – see www.radissonblu.ie/royalhotel-dublin or call 01 898 2900.

Enjoy some cool views and a heartwarming time at The Ice House Hotel, Ballina

From meeting locals, curious goats or soon-to-be delicious lobsters, Ballynahinch Castle’s Connemara setting

BALLYNAHINCH CASTLE: HISTORIC STONES AND ROCKY

Lovely Connemara best for a Valentine  AISLING KENNEDY

BALLYNAHINCH Castle is a rarity in Ireland, with a uniqueness that I have never found in any other hotel I have stayed at before.

With Valentine’s Day just a few days away, it’s hard to think of a better place to escape to for a truly magical, romantic break.

For starters, the hotel is a four-star Victorian castle that is nestled in the most immense natural beauty I have ever seen.

If you have visited Connemara you will understand but if, like me, you have never been, it will quite simply take your breath away, whether at Valentine’s or, indeed, any time of the year.

Ballynahinch Castle is situated on the banks of the Owenmore River

between Clifden and Glynsk, close to Recess.

The castle dates back to 1756 and when you arrive into the reception you immediately feel the deep history of the hotel, with its high ceilings, beautiful paintings on the walls, fishing rods and warm log fires.

The hotel has a country feel while still remaining elegant and luxurious.

My partner and I met with sales and marketing manager Carol Hinch, who warmly welcomed us and offered us tea or one of the many aged whiskeys the hotel proudly display in their Ranji room next to reception.

We were shown to our room in the River Wing part of the hotel, and while walking through the newly refurbished corridors, Carol explained the history of Ballynahinch

and the many intriguing visitors they have had over the years.

Our room was spectacular, with a four poster bed, a walk-in wardrobe, a very large bathroom and a view from our window of the Owenmore River, which was a beautiful sight to behold.

After we had settled ourselves in, we met with Noel Joyce, the hotel’s walking guide, and he brought us on the 3km riverside and railway walk around the grounds of Ballynahinch Castle.

He taught us about foraging in the local area, the history of the castle, and the types of fish to be caught in the river during different seasons.

The walk took about two hours and we had the pleasure of taking in the scenery all around the castle, culminating in

a walk along the banks of the Owenmore River where we could see Ballynahinch Castle in the distance, nestled in front of the Connemara mountains.

It was a view I will never forget, as the colours of the sky and the mountains against the backdrop of the castle was simply stunning.

Noel ended our tour by bringing us to a little lodge that fishermen use along the banks of the river, where wine and canapes were waiting for us.

Later that day we met with Cyril Biggins, the hotel’s famed fly fisherman. He taught us how to fly fish, initially on the grounds of the castle before we got to try the real thing at the river.

I hoped for a little nibble on my rod but my luck wasn’t in that day. It was,

9 February 2017 GAZETTE 19

GAZETTE

TRAVEL

provides a wild and dramatic, yet charming and friendly, setting for all. Pictures: Aisling Kennedy

SHORES WILL CAPTURE YOUR HEART

proves the west is getaway to delight ---------------------------------------------------------

‘Seamus Heaney was a regular visitor to Ballynahinch over the years. As a result, Heaney wrote a book – Captivating Brightness – specifically for Ballynahinch Castle, containing only original works dedicated to the beautiful scenery and charm of the castle and its surroundings’ ---------------------------------------------------------

however, a great experience and Cyril was a very patient teacher as it was my first time fly fishing and I wasn’t quite a natural at it!

Later that night we dined in the Owenmore restaurant run by head chef Ultan Cooke, who previously won a Michelin Star for his cooking at Aniar in Galway.

He explained that the

menu uses the freshest ingredients and is regularly changed to reflect the seasons.

Our dinner was beautiful and every course was paired with a particular wine to suit the dish. A particular mention has to go to the duck heart starter, as it was a gorgeous example of a dish well executed. The service was excellent and very

attentive too.

Throughout the meal, the general manager of Ballynahinch, Patrick O’Flaherty, entertained us with stories of the many poets, playwrights and authors who regularly visited and stayed in Ballynahinch over the years.

One of the most notable people that Patrick knew well was poet Seamus Heaney, who was a regular visitor to Ballynahinch over the years.

It was clear that he had a strong bond with the poet.

As a result, Heaney wrote a book – Captivating Brightness – specifically for Ballynahinch Castle, containing only original works dedicated to the beautiful scenery and charm of the castle and its surroundings.

That book was on our coffee table in our room when we arrived at Bal-

lynahinch. It is a beautiful read, and one that I will treasure forever.

The following day, before we departed back to reality, we were treated to a boat trip out to Inis Lacken.

If, like me, you have never heard of Inis Lacken, it is a little island that lies off the coast of Roundstone in Connemara.

Our boat brought us along the beautiful coastline of Connemara to the island and while on our journey we tried out some sea fishing.

Luckily the weather was very calm that day but still, I couldn’t quite manage to hook that elusive fish!

We did, however, pull in a lobster pot from the sea on our way across to the island where there was a beautiful lobster that we kept and were treated to

The rugged setting’s ruins and waters are offset by the cosy comfort and style back at historic Ballynahinch Castle

later on the island.

Inis Lacken itself used to be inhabited by people who have long since departed, as it is so remote. It is now a gorgeous little island surrounded by small sandy beaches, with lots of old, crumbling cottages dotted around the land.

Goats and donkeys wander the island, and they will happily come up to investigate who you are when they see you.

We walked most of the island, as it is not very big, and then retreated to an

old schoolhouse. There we had our cooked lobster, enjoyed some sun and learned about the history of the island.

Overall, my experience at Ballynahinch is one that will always stay with me and I will be back again in the future. That is a definite.

It is a place filled with character, history and something special that is hard to put into words.

For me, it is probably the most beautiful and undiscovered part of Ireland that before now I

never had the pleasure of experiencing, but I’m very grateful to all at Ballynahinch for opening my eyes to the beauty that exists in our fair little island.

I f y o u ’r e u n l u c k y enough not to be able to visit Ballynahinch Castle for a wonderful Valentine treat, the hotel is running a mid-week deal in March, which includes a two-night break with dinner for €215pp.

For further information, see www.ballynahinchcastle.com or call 095 31006.

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R1

DUBLINLOVE

VALENTINEBITES

Bank on a romantic meal over at the IFSC

Make Lily O’Brien’s chocs even sweeter by adding your face IF YOU’RE looking to make your better half smile this Valentine’s Day, then you can’t go wrong with a box of chocolates – in particular, a box of chocolates with your loving face on it For Valentine’s Day, Lily O’Brien’s Chocolates are going all-out by offering a personalised chocolate photo box (30 chocolates for €19.99) which combines the signature Lily O’Brien’s chocolates accompanied with your own romantic and personal image.

All you have to do is upload your image to the Lily O’Brien website and they will frame it on your chocolate box lid for you. For further information, see www.lilyobriens.ie, or their Facebook page: www.facebook.com/LilyOBriens.

ELY Bar and Brasserie in the IFSC is running a four-course Valentine’s Day menu created by executive chef Ryan Stringer on February 14. On the night, award-winning sommelier Ian Brosnan will also be on hand to guide diners through the selection of white, red and dessert wines from the Ely cellars.

Ely Bar and Brasserie features beautifully restored wine vaults dating back to 1821, along with a dramatic waterside atrium bar, a climate-controlled fine wine cellar, and wonderful 200-year-old wine and whiskey vaults. The Valentine’s dinner costs from €99 per couple. For bookings, see www.elywinebar.ie.

FOOD

Roses are red, violets blue, but for brownie points, this is for you!

Mix and match your perfect M&S meal M&S are running a Valentine’s dinner menu this week for €25 that offers shoppers a choice between four starters, four main courses, three sides, four desserts, a bottle of sparkling wine, and a box of chocolates. The offer is running from February 9 to 14; shoppers simply have to mix and match the courses they want along with their preferred sparkling wine.

Just Li Shar ke & eo Cast lekno ur c Face k Hotel book post

The stunningly beautiful Castleknock Hotel & Country Club is an award-winning 4 star hotel set in beautiful grounds with its own golf course, right on the doorstep of Dublin city.

The hotel is just 15 minutes from the city but feels a world away from the bustle of Dublin with its tranquil countryside setting.

With an 18-hole golf course, deluxe day spa, award-winning restaurants and welcoming bars Castleknock Hotel is everything you could want from a great resort hotel, all under one roof and within easy reach

of everything Dublin has to offer. We have a fantastic prize on offer for this beautiful hotel – a romantic overnight stay for two including breakfast and an evening meal in the awardwinning Park Restaurant (above). All you have to do is go to the Dublin Gazette’s Facebook page and Like and Share our Castleknock Hotel Valentine’s Day post.

Castleknock Hotel & Country Club is the perfect place to spoil your sweetheart this February! *Terms & Conditions apply - Subject to availability and non-transferable.

Castleknock Hotel & Country Club, Porterstown Rd, Castleknock, D15 +353 (0) 1 640 6300 castleknockhotel.com

IF YOU’RE one of the many people taking a more socially-minded approach to Valentine’s Day, why not rustle up these adorable Raspberry Brownies instead?

Your friends will love you if you whip these up, with this recipe serving 12-16.

This recipe is courtesy of Flogas Ireland; for further information and more recipes see www. flogastronomy.

INGREDIENTS

125g butter 50g dark cocoa (but drinking chocolate powder will work fine here)  200g caster sugar  3 medium eggs  200g plain flour  1 teaspoon baking powder  100g whole blackberries  

PREPARATION  Preheat your (fan) oven to 180C. Line a square baking dish well.  In a large, microwaveable bowl, melt the but-

ter in the microwave.

It should only take 30 seconds x 2 on the high setting. Stir in the cocoa powder until blended with the melted butter.  In a second large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until creamy and frothy.

While whisking, pour in the butter & cocoa powder mixture. Keep on whisking until completely combined.  Stop whisking and fold in the flour and baking powder. Once all the flour and bak-

ing powder has been combined, pour half the mixture into the lined baking dish. Stud the mixture with the whole blackberries then pour the remaining mixture on top.  Bake in the oven for 25 minutes. Carefully remove the brownie from the oven, then return to the oven for a further 5 minutes to intensify the flavours.  Turn off the oven, remove the brownie and leave to cool completely before serving.

9 February 2017 GAZETTE 21

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STYLE

Cheeky gifts

IF, like me you don’t take Valentine’s very seriously but enjoy marking the day in a humorous way, then please enjoy this selection of tongue in cheek (oh go on) gifts to annoy your significant other, friends and colleagues.

M&S Handmade Prosecco Mallows €6

Brown Thomas Jo Malone London Men’s Cologne Collection €98

Dea a Bo lz Mess a ttle €1.5 ge in 0 OVE EIL AUS M C E Ani B E CHAR and C Alex NECKLA , €31 s YOU & Son r Wei Tho mas Sab o st erli ng s ilve r br ace let € 159

Asos Jolly Awesome card €4

Aldi Valentines novelty apron €4.99

Passeport Rose d’Anjou €14.99

Arnotts Ale Walsh Emma Clutch in pink €225

ear Ohh D Asos €4.75 r e coast

Aldi Chocolate Fountain €19.99

Heart balloon kit, €20, Moss Cottage, www. moss.ie

Bro Eto wn T nD ot T homa ie € s 85

I Only Have Fries For You Card, €6,Moss Cottage, www. moss.ie

FOR the more romantically inclined here’s a selection of gifts to indulge your inner Casanova.

Whether your other half will be enamoured with a bottle of prosecco and some chocolates or something a little fancier – from good old chocolates and cuddly toys to something a little more considered take a look at our more lovey dovey choices.

Lovey Dovey

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22 GAZETTE 9 February 2017

DUBLINLIFE

FASTNews

The Hyundai Tucson remains the top-selling car on the Irish market as we start 2017

Dublin sales grows as new-car purchases dip NEW car sales figures produced by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) for the month of January show that 171 registrations were down by 1.7% (39,019) compared to January 2016 (39,722). New car sales in the Dublin region accounted for 34% of the total Irish market in January, up marginally from 33% in 2016 as 13,358 new cars were registered in Dublin, in January of this year.

With the value of sterling staying low, used car imports from Britain continue to rise on the back of perceived value. Used car imports for January 2017 were 7,558 compared with 4,509 in January 2016, a massive 67% increase. Sales of new Light Commercial Vehicles (LCV’s) dropped by 2.4% (6,394) compared to January last year (6,555), while Heavy Goods Vehicle (HGV) registrations dropped by 6.3% (456) for January in comparison to the same time last year (487).

The best-selling car in for the month of January was the Hyundai Tucson. The success of the Hyundai Tucson put the Hyundai brand as the overall car brand market leader for the first time ever, ahead of Toyota with Ford in third place.

Top Five Models Jan 2017 1 Hyundai Tucson 2 Ford Focus Range 3 Ford Fiesta Range 4 Nissan Qashqai 5 VW Golf Range

Units 1,899 1,550 1,421 1,349 1,273

Ford marks centenary with leading position FORD marked 100 years in Ireland with the leading position in the combined car and light commercial vehicle (LCV) market.

According to figures released by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry, Ford sold the highest number of vehicles with a total of 6,043 units (4,381 cars and 1,662 vans) ahead of Toyota with a combined total of 5,096 and VW in third place with a combined total of 4,893.

This is the third year in a row that Ford has been the top seller during the January sales period.

Ford’s Transit range was again the undisputed leader in van sales with some 1,293 Transit and Transit Connect models sold during the month. The Ford Focus and the Ford Fiesta were both placed in the top-five best-selling models in second and third place respectively.

Corolla proves an effortless driving challenge

Toyota’s Corolla has been their best-selling car in Ireland and across the world since it launched 50 years ago. Today’s Corolla is so much more modern, economical and practical while retaining that reliability in a car that Michael Moroney found is just easy to drive.

FOR 2017, Toyota has a new Corolla, the Japanese brand’s best-selling car on the Irish market.

The Corolla appeals to those who want a safe and reliable car with plenty of rear legroom and spacious concealed boot space.

The new-look Corolla remains identifiable as a Toyota and now it’s been tweaked to give it a more modern look.

This is a car that’s g r ow n i n s i z e ove r recent years as it edges into the bigger car sector of the market.

Ireland is still a market where saloon cars sell in high numbers.

The Corolla has been a popular choice and has been the best-selling car in this segment of the Irish market so far in 2017 after more than 3,750 were sold in 2016.

For 2017 it leads its

segment of the market.

The boot design is still preferred by many over the hatchback option, giving a great level of load security as well as additional carrying capacity.

Skoda offers a similar option in the Octavia with both a boot and a hatchback feel, while the Volkswagen Jetta is seen as one of the other obvious competitors along with the saloon or fourdoor version of the Ford Focus. Overall, it’s a narrow competition zone as the Corolla and Octavia battle it out for the top slot.

I ’ ve h a d t h e n e w Corolla powered by the modest 1.4-litre turbodiesel engine out in test in recent weeks. The car is instantly impressive in terms of styling both inside and out.

The dash layout has

been improved to give a cleaner more modern look topped off with an impressive 7 inch touch screen system.

I found that the car provides great interior space. Seat adjustment is good with up to 60mm (3in) sliding movement and 16 levels of height adjustment. The steering wheel angle has extra adjustment and when I was in my most comfortable driving position there was impressive rear legroom.

Toyota claims that the new Corolla has 85mm (3.5in) more rear knee room than the best of the competitors.

You’ll be impressed with the engine smoothness rather than the power. For some abouttown driving the new Corolla is so smooth that sometimes you wonder if it’s a diesel or not.

The new-look Toyota Corolla comes with styling change inside and out, more space and improved safety features. Prices start from €22,995 for the entry level diesel models

Toyota Corolla 1.4 D4D

SPECIFICATIONS

Engine 1.4 litre Engine power 90hp 0 – 100km/hr 12.5 seconds Economy 25km/litre

(4.0/100km or 70mpg) Fuel Tank Capacity 55 litres CO2 emissions 119g/km Road Tax Band A3 €190 Main Service 15,000km/12 months Euro NCAP Rating 5 star (2015) Warranty 3 years/100,000km Entry Price €22,995 The dash has been re-designed to deliver a cleaner and less cluttered look, while the large 7-inch touch screen system is clear and easy to use

Out on the motorways and over longer journeys the engine feels under powered forcing you to drive at over 2200rpm and pushing your driving style into a less economical zone.

Overall, with over 1200km driven in the Corolla I found that

the economy figures were about 20% off the rated one of 25km/litre (4.0/100km or 70mpg).

T h a t ’s a r e a s o n a b l e return for a car that has good space capacity.

This Corolla is lighter than some of the competition and that feature was noticeable on the

9 February 2017 GAZETTE 23

GAZETTE

MOTORING

Car share club celebrates clocking up 10k members

The boot is big at 452 litres

The Corolla is powered by an upgraded 1.4 turbodiesel engine that delivers 90bhp and 205Nm of torque but it’s a shade sluggish in action

open road. Cross winds are noticeable as is the impact of passing heavy trucks on motorways.

This confirms for me why the Corolla is an easy and impressive car to drive as long as you drive easily.

Keep within the 100km/hr range and you’ll find the car is economical as well as being comfortable to drive.

This Corolla comes with lots of new features

safety features that add to this ease of driving appeal. This is what Toyota calls its Safety Sense system and includes a lane departure warning system that’s effortless to disengage.

Hill Assist Control, Downhill Assist Control, Trailer Stability Control and Active Traction Control are also included.

Other features include rear view parking camera, dusk sensors and an auto-

matic headlight system.

I especially liked the auto dimming headlights system and despite the lengthy test drive in what were poor driving conditions, the system worked very well.

It gave a clear warning in the panel between the dials when it needed an extra cleaning and that also helped with the automatic stop warning system, both of which are very effective and need

just a little regular care.

The new Toyota Touch multimedia system is easy to use and comes with a larger 7 inch screen and a smaller 4.2 inch screen between the dials within the dash display. The information on the car’s performance and settings is easy to use.

So too was the BlueTo o t h s e t u p b u t I found that the system was erratic in terms

of the phone connection and many callers complained about poor reception so calls were dropped.

I failed to connect a second phone user to the system, which would be a useful advantage.

Entry prices for the new Corolla diesel start at €22,995 in Terra specification, while you need to add €2,000 to your spend if you opt for the higher specification

Luna versions.

Overall, the car is competitive and well specified with lots of space and comfort.

T his is a car that drives easily but not in a challenging way. Corolla has been the hallmark of motoring reliability and that bit you can depend on with the new model, plus it has lots of modern driver features that are presented well and new Toyota style.

Volvos top for pedestrian safety ratings

Volvo’s new S90 and V90 have set a new safety standard

VOLVO has cemented its position amongst the leaders of automotive safety innovation with its new S90 sedan and V90 wagon by being the first car maker to score a full six points in the Autonomous Emergency Braking for Pedestrians (AEB Pedestrian) test procedure and an overall 5 Star rating for both cars in the recent Euro NCAP system.

Volvo Cars has a long held vision that no one should be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo car by the year 2020.

The S90 and V90 results surpass the best overall score of any model tested last year and now make Euro NCAP’s

top-3 best performing cars ever all Volvos. The result follows in the footsteps of the XC90, which was the first car from any manufacturer to score full points in the Euro NCAP Autonomous Emergency Braking Car to Car rear-end tests (AEB City and AEB Interurban). The S90 and V90 performed as expected in the 2017 testing cycle, achieving the full 5 stars, thanks in large part to the high level of standard safety equipment in the new cars.

The AEB Pedestrian tests by Euro NCAP are designed to check performance of pedestrian detection systems using three road crossing scenarios, all of which would result

in a fatal collision if the AEB system did not intervene. The tests represent common and critical situations that frequently result in pedestrian casualties in the real world: An adult runs into the road from the driver side of the vehicle An adult walks into the road from the passenger side of the vehicle (two tests are carried out for this scenario) A child runs from between two parked cars into the road from the passenger side of the vehicle Volvo has a long held vision that no one should be killed or seriously injured in a new Volvo car by the year 2020.

IRELAND’S largest car sharing club GoCar has reached 10,000 sign-ups since it was launched in 2008 and now plans to operate a fleet of 300 cars and vans.

To celebrate this milestone and make car sharing accessible to more drivers across Dublin, GoCar is offering new memberships to the public at just €10 for a limited period (a reduction of 80% on the usual sign-up fee of €50) in addition to new, payas-you-go pricing.

GoCar’s new payas-you-go pricing will eliminate monthly subscription fees for drivers and allow them to drive a GoCar vehicle from €8 per hour, with 50km of driving included on every trip at no additional cost.

Drivers will also enjoy free parking at any Dublin City payand-display parking space across the city and incur no expense for fuel, NCT testing, vehicle servicing, motor tax or insurance premiums.

Anyone aged 21 or over with a full driver license can avail of the service and have access to over 160 cars and vans across Dublin and Cork.

The reduced sign-up fee and pay-as-yougo pricing is part of its aim to provide a convenient and costeffective alternative to car ownership for more drivers across Dublin, from regular everyday users and those who occasionally need a second family car, to small and large businesses.

GAZETTE

24 BLANCH GAZETTE 9 February 2017

DUBLINLIFE

CINEMA

ReelReviews

SING

Musical funfest LOVE animals? Love cartoons? Love music? Then feast your eyes on Sing. Sing, directed and written by Garth Jennings, is an animated musical comedy about a down-on-his-luck koala that holds a singing competition in hopes it will save his theatre. The film includes 60 songs and features the voices of top stars such as Matthew McConaughey, Reese Witherspoon, Seth MacFarlane and Scarlett Johansson.

LION

A truly engaging film BASED on a non-fiction book, Dev Patel impresses in Lion (Cert PG, 118 mins).

Despite having been raised by a good family (with Nicoloe Kidman as his mum), a man adopted as a child is compelled to discover his past, and driven to find out what happened to his birth family in India.

So begins an epic journey across a continent and cultures, with a compelling emotional narrative driving it forward.

LA LA LAND

Last - definitely not least LA LA Land (Cert PG, 128 mins) is as good as its multiple awards, award nods and audience reaction say it is. Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone sing and dance theuir way through a slightly melancholy musical that pays tribute to Los Angeles, Jazz, Cinema, Romance, and more. Its terrific visuals, some striking editing and punchy music make it a delight, and one to watch out for at the Oscars.

Saving grace: Jean (Mahershala Ali) tries to help Chiron (Travante Rhodes) through his lonely, isolated and abusive life as a gay man in America

MOONLIGHT: ARTFULLY CRAFTED STORY EXPLORES GAY BLACK MALE LIVES IN THE US

Showing true colours

BASED on Tarell Alvin McCraney’s play, In Moonlight Black Boys Look Blue, director Barry Jenkins’ Moonlight (Cert 15A, 111 mins) is a story told in three parts, interacting with the main character Chiron at three vital junctures in his life – as a young boy (Alex Hibbert), a teenager (Ashton Sanders) and a grown man (Travante Rhodes).

T he experience of LGBT people of colour is a cinematic subject rarely explored, and in the current social climate of America, one that is deeply necessary this awards season.

Negotiating life in the poor, black neighbour-

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

hoods of Miami, the young Chiron is helped out by drug dealer Jean (Mahershala Ali) and his girlfriend Teresa (Janelle Monae).

Their home becomes a kind of sanctuary for Chiron when his mother (Naomie Harris) spirals into a devastating crack addiction.

Chiron first confronts his sexuality with the help of Jean and Teresa, but as he grows older he

learns to hide inside a hardened exterior.

Here, life as a gay boy is solitary, violent and abusive; ultimately, Chiron begins to feel that the only one to help him through it is himself.

The subject matter is deeply affecting and absolutely necessary; Jenkins expertly crafts a narrative around the mostly ignored experience of the gay black male in America.

Mo o n l i g h t i s q u i etly moving throughout and never treats its themes with bombastic or explosive melodrama – the tension and emotion build softly, leading toward a deeply affecting, open-ended climax.

Yes, there are bursts of violence, but they are poetically in step with Moonlight’s overall, subdued atmosphere.

Jenkins often approaches the drama with a lingering camera, and deliberate, penetrating long takes that concentrate the hypnotic weight of their attention on facial expression.

Bodies, faces, in particular, are tightly framed – faces that speak, faces that listen, and faces that betray nothing of their bearer, demonstrating only the private enigma of human experience.

Indeed, the proximity the camera shares with the audience offers us a closeness to Chiron that

no one in his life can attain. At times, the result is intimate; at others, it’s deeply claustrophobic.

Throughout, however, Jenkins’ expert direction affords the film and its complex subject a unique, lyrical ambience that we rarely catch onscreen – one that evokes the cinema of Wong Kar-Wai. Much like the work of that renowned Hong Kong filmmaker, particularly his 2000 film In the Mood for Love, Moonlight incorporates repetitive and deeply moving musical themes to add a consistent, unifying texture to a story that takes massive leaps forward in time.

As both a deeply personal film and one that touches on subjects close to many hearts – subjects that rarely appear in mainstream cinema – Moonlight offers no simple answers and no universal truths.

Jenkins has crafted a unique, profound film that is wholeheartedly deserving of every accolade aimed in its direction.

Led with three superb performances and a fantastic cast of supporting players, Moonlight exhibits the entire pantheon of human emotion – beautiful, devastating and completely necessary viewing.

Verdict: 10/10

9 February 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

TECH CLASH: GLOBAL TECH AND US POLITICS COLLIDE

IT giants stir in an unexpected battle for soul of the industry

BY NOW, you’ll have seen outrage around the world against a certain someone’s travel bans and general behaviour, language, tone and intent, although closer to home political and business dissent has been more muted.

Some pundits and commentators have speculated that Ireland’s reliance on heavy-hitting IT firms has, partly at least, led to a reluctance to sharply criticise The Donald’s decisions, lest offence be caused to international IT firms based here.

However, the IT giants themselves have stirred against President Trump, sharing a rare collective rapprochement to rap his actions firmly across the knuckles.

A variety of collective statements, letters and actions have seen the likes of – deep breath – Microsoft, Facebook, Google,

 SHANE DILLON sdillon@dublingazette.com

Netflix, Uber, SquareSpace, GoPro, LinkedIn, Reddit, Dropbox, Twitter, Intel, Kickstarter, and many, many others enter the fray, all united in opposition to the travel ban that, at best, is viewed as stifling innovation, and at worst, as naked bigotry, depending on who you talk to.

After all, a great many of America’s Fortune 500 companies are IT companies, and immigrants, with their constant influx of new ideas and bold entrepreneurial streaks, have provided a lifeblood for the sector (as well as making many people and

companies very, very rich).

With more than 200 of America’s Fortune 500 firms founded by immigrants, or their children, the sector is acutely aware of the power, progress and prosperity that immigrants have played in the country’s and the wider tech sector’s fortunes.

Whether you’re from Somalia or Iraq, Singapore or Ireland, America’s tech sector welcomes you, and it’s no exaggeration to say that immigrants to America have fundamentally shaped and guided technology’s progress, and thus the world.

Any chilling effect on the sector – even if ‘just’ a ‘temporary ban’ on a few countries – thus rattles the entire IT world. The soul of the sector is at stake, with more than mere money promoting big and small IT companies and names to rush to the frontlines to

fight against such a ban.

Perhaps more cynically, the experiences of those on the ‘wrong’ side of popular anti-Trump sentiment has also been noted as a potential driving force for resisting the travel bans.

Take, for instance, Travis Kalanick, the chief executive of Uber, the taxi-hailing firm. He was one of a number of high-profile tech heads sitting on a Trump advisory committee who soon felt the sharp heat of public anger.

Despite publicly saying that he opposed President Trump’s actions, but that he felt it was better to engage with the political process to try and bring about a positive change in American policy, many Uber customers reacted badly, saying they wouldn’t use Uber again as long as the firm was involved with President Trump in any capacity.

US President Donald Trump’s executive order banning immigrants from several predominantly Muslim countries has drawn vociferous criticism from the IT world

With the risk of whitehot public anger spilling over into a financial cost to the company, Kalanick stepped down from the committee, with his experience echoed by other leaders now finding themselves on the unexpected front line of an international, public battle.

And so, from the depths of Silicon Valley to the heights of Wall Street, the IT sector’s war drums are

beating, as one global tech giant after another lines up its lieutenants and letters to oppose President Trump’s actions.

This marks a rare clash between politics and tech as a whole. Such flagship companies are used to occasional scraps and scuffles with the powers that be, but such collective cohesion beyond individual disputes is a rarity.

So far, the reaction from

President Trump to the rebellious IT sector has been muted.

However, for a man who has constantly shown a strong familiarity with tech – his infamous Tweets, and comments regarding alleged Russian hacking spring to mind – it’s very unlikely that The Donald can, or will, ignore the IT sector’s keyboard warriors gathering for battle for very long ...

26 BLANCH GAZETTE 9 February 2017

BLANCHCLASSIFIEDS CARPENTRY & CONSTRUCTION

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PLANNING NOTICE Fingal County Council We Nedelea and Maria Gavrila intends to apply for permission for development at this address 228 Littlepace Meadows, Clonee, Dublin 15. The development will consist of roof alterations for the conversion of the attic space to comprise the construction of a new gable wall to side with window, 1 roof window to front and roof dormer to the rear elevation all at second floor level and all associated site works.

The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

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28 BLANCH GAZETTE 9 February 2017

SPORT

International Soccer Boys in Green bounce back to earn respect of Dutch counterparts THE REPUBLIC’S Under-15 side bounced back from a disappointing loss to the Netherlands by drawing 1-1 against them two days later in Zeist.

The 18-man squad contained 10 players from four Dublin sides, namely St Francis FC, St Joseph’s Boys, St Kevin’s Boys and Belvedere FC. Ireland conceded five goals to the Dutch in the first game but did manage to get on the scoresheet themselves through Belvedere superstar Troy Parrott.

In the second game, Manchester United youngster Ayodeji Sotona put the Irish in front after just five minutes when Parrott made a powerful run down the right before sending the ball across the box for the Dubliner to slot home.

Ireland keeper Aaron Davis was then forced into a decent save to keep out a Dutch header in the 15th minute before the Netherlands eventually levelled two minutes later with a fortunate effort that saw a right wing cross end up in the Irish net via the upright.

Cian Leavy had a chance to restore Ireland’s lead in the 37th minute after connecting with a cut back from Parrott but his effort was cleared off the line.

Ireland pushed hard for an equaliser and were given a boost when the home side had a player dismissed for a foul on substitute Festy Ebosele with nine minutes left.

Parrott almost snatched a victory for Ireland during but manager Jason Donohue was pleased with what he saw from his players “We reflected on the first game and spoke about not making the same basic defensive errors so we defended a little deeper. After we took the lead it was tight enough and were unlucky not to go ahead. When we looked back on Tuesday we weren’t actually that bad but you can’t get away with the errors we made.

“We created more chances in the first game but we looked a stronger unit in the second game and overall I feel we met our objectives here this week. We’ll look forward to our next fixtures against the Czech Republic in April.”

Ireland Under-19 manager Tom Mohan

GAA: VINCENT’S TO LET PERFORMANCE DO THE TALKING

Townies all set for club semis  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

ST VINCENT’S head into their All-Ireland club football semi-final against Derry’s Slaughtneil on Sunday off the back of a record seventh Leinster title, and as hot favourites.

The Derry side excelled themselves in 2016 and while they’re expected to be more competitive against Vincent’s than against the Dublin hurling champions, the Marino side are heavily odds-on.

The Vincent’s players have been preparing in private - with none of the player’s involved in Dublin’s 0-18 to 0-11 opening league win against Cavan on Sunday. In fact, it’s difficult to gauge form ahead of such a key game with few turning out in O’Byrne Cup action.

Vincent’s have initiated a media shut down ahead of the game, preferring to focus on the action, and plan to talk about their progress publicly again should they make the final.

Selector Niall Curran spoke regularly with GazetteSport throughout the Leinster championship, however, and did emphasize that the club are enjoying their away trips, and the buzz that comes with them. At the time, some felt that Vincent’s success came despite some less than impressive performances, and were hoping for progress on that front.

“We’re yet to really play at the level we did in 2013,” Curran said of their

St Vincent’s after winning their seventh Leinster club title last year

Dublin progress in November, adding “trips are a bit special, they’re a bit like kids going on a school trip.

They love going away all day on the bus, out all day.”

Slaughtneil are still on target for an unlikely All-Ireland treble, with their achievements all the more notable in the context of a small, rural community club.

Having won the football and hurling double in Ulster for three years in a row, player Chrissy McKaigue told RTE of the deeper sentiments behind the club’s progress ahead of the game, saying: “We’ve lost a lot of people in our club through tragic circumstances

the last number of years and when them kind of things happen you get a wider sense of what’s important and an appreciation of what Slaughtneil is as a community.

Ultimately it’s who we are as people off the field as much as it is on it that defines us.”

Vincent’s, meanwhile, are adding a storyboard to their Marino ground that will feature the team’s various successes over the years.

The project will also include a new all weather juvenile pitch expected to open in the coming couple of months, as well as further developments to the grass pitch at Ard Scoil Ris.

BASKETBALL:

NATIONAL SIDE CALLS ON MARION ACE IOANNIS IOANNIS Liapakis has been recognised for his good work with UCD Marian by being appointed as assistant coach of the Irish men’s senior basketball squad by new head coach Pete Strickland.

Liapakis, pictured above, brings with him a wealth of experience in coaching over the last number of years both in Ireland and abroad.

He said: “It’s a great honour to be part of the men’s national team set-up and to work alongside legendary coach Pete Strickland.

“It’s a big responsibility to represent Ireland and we will definitely work our hardest to do our best and deliver.

“I would like to thank Coach Strickland and Basketball Ireland for giving me the opportunity to be part of the team. I’m really looking forward to it.”

Mohan’s men hit La Manga ahead of crucial q ualifiers TOM Mohan’s Under 19s face Norway tomorrow night in the first of three friendlies which should provide useful preparation ahead of the UEFA U19 Championships Elite Qualifying Round in March.

Ireland are in La Manga for an invitational comp that will also see them take on Portugal (Sunday) and Slovakia (Tuesday) ahead of next month’s crunch Elite Phase, when they, hosts Belgium, Italy and Sweden will scrap it out for a single spot in the finals in Georgia this summer.

“This is another good opportunity for us to get the players together and help our prepara-

tions for the UEFA Elite Phase in March,” said Mohan. “A couple of players were unavailable due to club commitments but we’ve brought in some players who’ve done well recently and it’s a chance to stake their claim for involvement in the Elite Phase.

“We held a home-based assessment game against the ETB squad prior to Christmas and some of those players have earned their place in this squad. We have watched them in preseason games and it will be good to bring them in with the other players.

“The games we’ll play will all be good tests and the tournament format will also be very

beneficial ahead of what’s a testing Elite Phase.

This is a good group of players and we’re looking forward to working with them in Spain.”

REPUBLIC OF IRELAND U19 SQUAD: Caoimhin Kelleher (Liverpool); Lee McCarron (Finn Harps); Corey O’Keefe (Birmingham City); Canice Carroll (Oxford Utd); Conor Masterson (Liverpool); Conor Kane (Drogheda Utd) Barry Cotter (Limerick); Darragh Leahy (Coventry City); Tyreke Wilson (Manchester City); JJ Lunney (St Patrick’s Athletic); Jayson Molumby (Brighton); Trevor Clarke (Shamrock Rovers); Dan McKenna (Wolves); Conor Levingston (Wolves); Steven Kinsella (Dundalk); Anthony Scully (West Ham); Zach Elbouzedi (WBA); Dan Mandroiu (Brighton); Michael O’Connor (Shamrock Rovers); Ronan Hale (Birmingham City); Josh Barrett (Reading).

9 February 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

FASTSport

DUBLIN KIDS HAVE SKATE EXPECTATIONS FOR NEW SPORT  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

DUBLIN can now boast a second region with a roller hockey club, as local Liam Buckley continues his impressive push to promote the sport in Ireland.

Originally from Ballyfermot, Buckey intro-

duced the sport with a slow-building club at the Ballyfermot Sports Centre two years ago, and now runs senior and kids sessions at the venue, taking place on Wednesday and Friday nights respectively.

Roller Hockey has a long history and Buckley’s efforts with

The Green Machine did themselves proud over in Spain

Ireland draw hope after holding their own against Spain HOCKEY: SPAIN 3 - 3 IRELAND IRELAND were unlucky to only draw with much-fancied hosts Spain in the final game of the Tri Nations Tournament.

This enthralling match came just a day after Craig Fulton’s charges convincingly beat France 3-1.

The opening 10 minutes of the tie saw the Green Machine create more chances than their hosts as Neal Glassey drew an early save from Mario Fernandez while Shane O’Donoghue’s penalty corner drag forced another fine save.

The ever-reliable Eugene Magee was the instigator for Ireland’s opener, which was calmly deflected in by Matthew Nelson for his first senior international goal.

Ireland were denied a second from a well worked penalty corner when the ball was cleared off the line by the post man.

The game settled down until the final five minutes of the half, when Ricardo Santana drew the game level for Spain, but minutes later Nelson got his second goal as he was quickest to a loose ball in the circle.

It wasn’t long into the second half before Ireland furthered their lead. Johnny McKee won Ireland a penalty corner and O’Donoghue made no mistake the second time of asking as he drag flicked the ball high into the goal.

Higher-ranked Spain pushed to claw their way back into the game but excellent penalty-corner running by Jeremy Duncan closed down an early chance in the third quarter.

However, in the final minute of the third, the momentum began to shift as French flyer Xavi Lleonart scored from a penalty corner.

Moments into the final quarter he got his second goal to draw Spain level at 3-3.

Speaking about the series, head coach Craig Fulton said: “There have been improvements in every game and that was the main objective coming to Spain with this squad.

“We have made some really good progress as a team and there were some strong performances from the younger players.”

Kids enjoy new way to have fun on roller skates

the sport are in part a tribute to his late father, who played from the age of 12 right up until his passing at 86, but also clearly motivated by his own interest of more than two decades.

“I decided to do something to get hockey noticed around Ireland, as a lot of people don’t know what it is,” Buckley told GazetteSport. “I tried to carry it on in part in his [Buckley’s father’s] name, because he was so into it.”

To the untrained eye, the game looks a little like ice hockey, though played on a gym floor in skates, and using a more traditional hockey ball. Buckley summarises the differences by explaining that a closer ‘bridging game’ - inline hockey - exists.

“We use a quad skate, and they wear a lot more protection than we do. We just wear from the waist down, while they wear full body, more like an ice hockey player would do, and play with a puck and much longer stick. We use a hard ball.”

“Roller hockey is well known in Spain, Italy and Germany. We pretty much have to play abroad. My wife, son and daughter all play.

They have to fly, but if they’re not getting the gameplay over here, they have to go abroad.”

Competition is a key reason for Buckley’s move to Lucan, where a small group is currently in the early stages, with some players so keen on the sport that they already turn up to training in both venues. Buckley’s wife, Trish, who has been playing the game since the 80s, trains the kids to skate, while Liam works on the hockey itself.

Hockey’s cool cousin steamrolls the capital “We need to get some goalkeepers,” Buckley admits. “Eventually, though, we hope we can play games between them, and the players can talk about Lucan playing Ballyfermot.” “We have three Spanish players and an Argentinian training with our [Ballyfermot] side on a Wednesday. They’re incredible. Our downfall is we don’t have much competition over here. We need proper coaching. I’m teaching kids what was taught to me from memory.”As for the future? “We’ll get Lucan set up for now. Two years down the line, if I can have as many kids in Lucan as I have here, I’ll try and open something in Tallaght, or Clondalkin, and have a third club.

The game’s been around a long time, it’s great getting people to notice it,” he concludes.

Buckley’s sessions cost €10, and are open to anyone, though the clubs are not always able to provide appropriate roller skates for all sizes.

GAZETTE

30 BLANCH GAZETTE 9 February 2017

SPORT

FASTSport

FOOTBALL: AHERNE STARS AS LADIES SECURE LEAGUE WIN OVER KERRY

Dubs topple Kingdom sport@dublingazette.com

Celtic Warrior

destroys Draxler as she makes a return to the ring LYNN Harvey recovered from her first professional lost towards the end of last year with a devastating 37 second knockout of Hungarian Agnes Draxler in Belfast.

‘The Hunter’ who fights out of the Celtic Warrior gym made a drop in weight against Draxler in preparation for her move to light flyweight for her next fight later this month.

She sprang from her corner from the off and attacked her 21-year-old opponent with a flurry of punches – something she has been working on in training since moving coaches recently. The Dubliner eventually landed a huge uppercut to rock her opponent and leave the ref with no option but to end the fight after just 37 seconds of the first round.

The 35-year-old from Kilbarrack will now hope to bring produce dominant display when she returns to the ring in Dublin for Red Corner Promotions ‘Unfinished Business’ show on February 25th at the National Stadium.

“The main thing that I’ve been learning to do is to throw more punches, more volume, rather than relying on a strong, stiff jab, and that’s what I did,” Harvey told Irish-Boxing. com.

“Obviously it’s a work in progress, but I wanted to throw a lot of punches and I think I did that. I’d say that’s what got her; I was coming from all different angles. I’m happy that I didn’t just come in like I used to with the strong jab.”

“Luckily she came forward, which is what I like, I don’t like chasing them around. She came forward and she walked right into it.”

Enjoying her new surroundings, Harvey described how “I’m treated like an absolute VIP there, everyone looks after me, everyone makes sure I’m alright all the time. Not just Tommy, the rest of the team as well. They all make sure that I’m comfortable, that I’m happy, that everything’s alright. Honestly couldn’t ask for better people to look after me and that’s the truth.

ST SYLVESTER’S Sinead Aherne put in a superb performance to help the Dublin ladies secure a second league win of the season with a 1-8 to 0-8 point win over Kerry in the LIDL Ladies division 1 at Castleisland Desmonds.

The forward was only playing in her second game as captain but is already showing why she was chosen in the first place.

The home side started the brighter and went two points up from Laura Rogers and Louise Ni Mhuircheartaigh, before Dublin snatched the lead with a goal from Kate McKenna after their first attack.

Aherne then got herself on the scoresheet with a free from 30 metres before following up with two more points to stretch Dublin’s lead to four points after just 10 minutes.

With the weather rapidly deteriorating, the good opening to the game vanished as both sides struggled to point. Indeed, there be only two more points for each team during the first half - Ni Mhuircheartaigh and Nicole Owens both scoring braces - as Dublin went into the break having clocked up four wides, and Kerry kicking twice as many.

Changes Dublin manager Mick Bohan rang the changes going into the second half, with Sarah McCaffrey, Olivia Leonard and Aoife Kane making way for Lauren McGee, Amy Conroy and Leah Caffrey.

Three changes were not enough for long, however, as Lyndsey Davey and Hannah O’Neill were also brought on early into the second half as they struggled to get a foothold on the game.

Kerry were the team to start better once again and bagged the first point of the game through Lorraine Scanlon, before Ni Mhuircheartaigh kicked twice from play to reduce the deficit to one point in the 38th minute.

Sinead Aherne in action for the Dublin ladies senior football team

The Kingdom took heart from their comeback and through attack after attack at Dublin. Aherne hit another free to stem the tide of Kerry points but were dealt a blow when McGee was shown a yellow card for a high tackle.

However, Dublin remained strong while playing with 14, and increased their lead with two more Aherne frees to go ahead by four with just five minutes left.

Ciara Trant had to look sharp with a

COMMUNITY GAMES Organisation looking to expand into other areas to give kids an outlet LORD Mayor of Dublin Brendan Carr launched the Community

Games’ 50th Jubilee and 2017 calendar of events in the Mansion House recently.

The Games were are active from Balbriggan to Shankhill, Stillorgan to Rush, Finglas to Foxrock and many more areas, and provides opportunities for children from 6-16 to participate in a wide variety of sporting and cultural activities.

And don’t worry, if you’re over 16, you can get involved with the youth section and help out at local and county events.

You can get in contact with them on 01-8728203 or at dublin@ communitygames.ie.

block on Jackie Horgan in the dying minutes before Ni Mhuircheartaigh would score her sixth point of the afternoon on the stroke of full-time.

The full-time whistle eventually came after a long, hard-fought battle that saw Dublin leave as winners, but both sides – Dublin in particular - will know that they were far from their best and have a lot to work on if they are to enjoy successful campaigns.

9 February 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

GOLF New beginnings as club open their doors to all

ST BRIGID’S

WESTMANSTOWN Golf Club has undergone

a recent transformation - one which opens its gates to everyone.

Situated in the heart of Dublin 15 and is now welcoming to families and all who fancy a game on a Par71 championship golf course.

It has had huge investment in recent years and now offers membership packages from €185 to €1,065.

Cavan 0-11 Dublin 0-18  KARL GRAHAM sport@dublingazette.com

DUBLIN go into their Spring Series game against Tyrone in Croke Park this weekend in high spirits after an opening round 0-11 to 0-18 win over Cavan in the Allianz Football League at Kingspan Breffni Park.

A crowd of 16,331 turned out to watch Division 1 newbies Cavan take on the two in a row All-Ireland winners who are looking to make it five league titles in five years.

Impressive per formances in the victorious O’Byrne Cup campaign saw Niall Scully and Jason Whelan rewarded with a place in Jim Gavin’s side.

Former footballer of the year Jack McCaffrey also took his place in the side after his sabbatical last year – a return that

Under-14 academy panel Ella Curtin,

tinues each Saturday from 9.30am

Grace Moore, Sophie McCarthy and

until 11 in Russell Park. New families

Tara Coffey.

Well done to Dublin men’s and

Under-13s and 16s fixtures started

ladies football teams on their victo-

the playing season at the weekend,

ries in the National League football

with Under-12s upwards due to start

fixtures at the weekend.

next weekend.

Capital cruise to seven-point win in Lakelands went down extremely well with the visiting fans.

Neither team could stamp their authority on the game during an opening quarter that saw the game swing from end to end.

Dublin then managed to score five unanswered points as they looked to move their game up a gear. Both teams managed to get some points on the board as Dublin took a 0-10 to 0-7 lead into the break.

The second half saw the boys in blue, sporting a darker than usual jersey, kick on with Dean Rock continuing his free form from last year.

Cavan struggled to get close to Dublin, with the visiting side comfortably keeping their opponents at least three points adrift.

Their dominance of the game in the second also allowed Gavin to empty his bench, a situation which probably helped lead to their wastefulness in front of

CLUB nursery [4-7 year olds] con-

always welcome.

FOOTBALL: BOYS IN BLUE DEFEAT CAVAN TO GO TOP

Allianz Football League Round 1

CLUB NOTICEBOARD

The club would like to thank Fr Har-

Reminder that all GAA national

ris, Patsy Powell and our choir for St

club draw tickets must be returned

Brigid’s Day Mass on February 1st to

to club bar immediately.

remember deceased members and

Clu b m e m b e r s h ip c a n b e p a i d o n l i n e v i a o u r we b s i t e w w w. stbrigidsgaa.com.

friends and to start the 2017 season.

The trustees and members wish to extend our deepest sympathies to

This week’s lotto is in the Vineyard

the Williamson family on the passing

on the 9th with the jackpot of €15,000

of Michael Williamson, long associ-

not won last week.

ated with St Brigid’s and former club

Congratulations to the four club

officer.

member s on the Dublin camogie

CASTLEKNOCK

GREAT night in the Castleknock

draising quiz takes place on Friday

Hotel last Saturday for our club

Feb 17th at 8pm in the Carpenter.

celebration / adult awards night.

Tables of 4 are €40.

Well done to all the teams and indi-

Jive Classes start on Feb 14th.

vidual prize winners. Thanks to

Just great fun. €50 for 5 weeks.

sponsors and public representa-

Contact Cepta on 087 6991976

tive s for at tending , Joan Bur -

James Sherry “Somerton Physi-

ton, Jack Chambers and Turlough

othe r a py” s e r vice i s ava ila b le

Blessing. Thanks also to organisers

to members at the Castleknock

Lisa, Fergus, Shay, Kevin, Eithne,

Hotel on Saturday mornings and

Mick, Jim and Paddy.

Wednesday evenings.

There was no winner of our lotto

To book a physiotherapy appoint-

jackpot. Numbers drawn were 9, 14,

ment contact James on 087-7553451

15,16. Congratulations to our four

or email jamessherry8@hotmail.

match three winners who get €75.

com

Next Jackpot is €4000 in the Carpenter.

Well done to Ciarán and the Dubs on their win over Cavan in the

O ur nur s e r y, wi th th a nks to

national league on Sunday. Con-

Tigers Childcare, continues in usual

gratulations to the Dublin senior

location inside at CCC next Satur-

ladies footballers on their win over

day. A reminder that the Feile Fun-

Kerry in Castleisland.

ST PEREGRINE’S

Dublin star Jack McCaffrey hopes to take a spot in Jim Gavin’s team

the posts during the second period.

Dublin’s upcoming clash with Tyrone is part of a double header, with the capital’s senior hurlers taking on All-Ireland

champions Kilkenny.

It will be the first time Dublin and Tyrone have met each other since the 2015 league campaign when the sides had to settle for a draw.

THE online membership service is

essary to avail of the Bus, Saturday

back in action so please get mem-

11th Feb Home V Tyrone – Contact

b e r s h i p s i n a . s . a . p. e s p e c i a l l y

Paul Harte 086 258 5438, Sunday

Camogie players. N.B. any monies

26th Feb Away V Donegal – Contact

still due from 2016 must be paid in

Dave 086 046 2253.

full. New membership must then

We have all 36 contestants for

be paid in full or a direct debit set

our 2017 fundraiser the Kube. Our

up which will be divided into three

big launch night will take place

payments. A no pay, no play policy

Thursday 16th February at 8pm in

will be enforced for all members in

the club lounge. Tickets will go on

2017.

sale for the Kube on launch night.

Committee Positions: We are cur-

The jackpot will increase once

rently looking for volunteers to fill

again next week as there was no

various positions on several com-

winner this week. Numbers drawn:

mittees. If you have a few hours

6, 21, 23, & 28. Next week’s lucky

spare a week and would like to

winner will receive €9200.

assist in any area please get in con-

Bi n go eve r y We d n e s d a y at

tact with Secretary Paul Beecher.

8.30pm. Last week’s jackpot of €850

No previous experience required

was won.

just a little of your free time and a can do attitude.

DUBS Day Out: Pre Booking nec-

Saturday night Music in the bar February 18th Rory O’ Donnell and February 25th Celtic Fusion.

GAZETTESPORT

ALL OF YOUR BLANCH SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31

FEBRUARY 9-15, 2017

ROLLER HOCKEY: Kids get excited as new sport set to take the capital by storm with second club P29

GAA: McCaffrey back in action for Dubs as he aims to impress boss Gavin P31

Town notch another impressive result  DAVE DONNELLY

sport@dublingazette.com

HARTSTOWN Hunstown were held to a 1-1 draw away to struggling Pegasus/St James Athletic as the Clonsilla club continue to consolidate their position in Leinster Senior League Senior 1B. Pegasus/St James took the lead against the run of play 15 minutes in when a mis-hit clearance in the Hartstown Huntstown defence put Ian Donworth through on goal and he made no mistake.

The visitors didn’t allow the early concession to upset their momentum, however, and they had a num-

ber of half-chances from set-pieces before the equaliser arrived ten minutes from half time.

The second half was relatively low-key in terms of chances until the home side were awarded a penalty 20 minutes from time, only for Donworth to shoot wide from 12 yards as the game finished all-square.

Given their relative positions in the table – Pegasus/St James are on course for a second successive relegation – it was the visitors who went away the less satisfied with their lot.

However having travelled with a squad of 12 owing to suspensions and injuries, including to himself, player-manager Darren McGrath

wasn’t too downhearted.

“I thought in general we had the better of the play, but with them missing a peno I suppose a draw was a fair result,” the midfielder told GazetteSport.

“We didn’t want the final whistle to come because we were well on top at that stage.

“We have a lot of injuries and suspensions at the minute, and then we had a couple of forced last-minute withdrawals due to work.

“We ended up going out with only a squad of 12. It certainly affected us making changes or swinging the game a certain way.

“That certainly covered over the

disappointment as, if you look at the bare face of it with our position in the table, we’d be hoping for three points.

“While we still could have nicked it, considering we went out with a depleted squad we were happy enough to get a draw.”

The Town, who were only promoted to the intermediate ranks this year by default following the withdrawal of St Francis, have exceeded expectation so far at this level.

As one of the sides tipped to struggle at the bottom of the table, Hartstown find themselves comfortably in mid-table, although McGrath cautions against complacency. ” At the start, consolidation in the

intermediate leagues was the plan. It took us a good few games to get up to the run of things. We had four draws and a loss in the first five games.

“The teams are slightly better organised in the intermediate ranks and it took a few of the lads maybe by surprise, but to be sitting midtable after that start, I’m reasonably happy.”