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INSIDE: Dublin man is the overall Irish winner of the international Wings For Life World Run See P24
EQUALITY: Two opposing views call for a Yes or No vote in the referendum P14
Chuck us your coppers: Appeal for unused coins Hurling:
St Brigid’s land Division 3 Feile festival title Page 31
PICTURED at the launch of Change For Charity at the Blanchardstown Shopping Centre fountain are Kate Conroy, Irish Heart Foundation; Clelia Murphy, Fair City actress; Norma Smurfit, charity founder and Leah Coulson from Change for Charity. The initiative collects one- and two-cent coins that are not being otherwise used for the benefit of charities. See Gallery on Pages 8-9
Soccer:
Sunday Senior 1 title assured for St Mochta’s Page 32
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D15 left out of new €19m social housing projects Disappointment as no projects planned to ease local housing crisis
KEITH BELLEW
FOUR housing projects in Fingal, totalling €18.97m have been announced by Environment Minister Alan Kelly. However, none of these projects will be in Dub-
lin 15. Houses will be built in Swords, Balbriggan, Lusk and Ballyboughal in north County Dublin. Cllr David McGuinness (Ind) said there was a huge housing crisis in Blanchardstown, and the fact that no
social houses were planned for the area in this tranche of the funding was not good enough. A spokesperson for Fingal County Council said the feasibility of a number of sites in Dublin 15 were being
considered for social housing projects. This is the first phase in a six-year plan to reduce the numbers on housing lists for which Minister Kelly has allocated €81m to the council. Full Story on Page 6
2 BLANCH Gazette 7 May 2015
warning Finding of empty aerosol cans sparks concern
Solvent abuse a worry for group Blanchardstown Local Drug and Alcohol Task Force has issued a warning to parents to be aware of the possibility of their children abusing solvents. The warning follows reports from community representatives that the use of solvents could be on the increase in the Blanchardstown area, after a number of representatives from various areas reported finding numerous empty aerosol cans in areas where young people gather. During the discussion it was highlighted that there are lots of glues, gases and aerosols
keith bellew kbellew@dublingazette.com
which, when abused, can cause harm. M a ny a r e n o r m a l household products and easily accessible from the home. Solvents can be inhaled to produce psychoactive or mind-altering effects, and a variety of products common in the home and school contain these substances.
According to the task force, people do not typically think of these products as drugs because they were never intended to induce intoxicating effects. “Young children and adolescents can easily obtain these toxic substances and are among those most likely to abuse them. “Under the Irish Child Care Act 1991 it is an offence to sell, offer or make available solvents to a person aged 17 or under if there is reasonable cause to believe that he/she is likely to inhale them,” said the group
Edward Mac Manus, chair of the task force said: “As a local drug task force we have a duty to warn parents and carers of the dangers attached to solvent use and that use of solvents can lead to death even from first time use.” He went on to say “we don’t want to see any further deaths due to solvent use in Blanc h a r d s t ow n o r a ny other area. There is help available for those concerned about their own or others solvent use by contacting the task force on 01 8249590”. Cllr David McGuinness (Ind) said while it was probable that young people in the area are abusing solvents for recreational purposes, he believed that they were most likely using them as aids in lighting fires due to the fact that they were highly flammable. “If you throw an aerosol can into a fire it will
Concerns that the use of solvents could be on the increase in the Blanchardstown area have been expressed
explode and it’s a cheap laugh. “The other thing is that people are stealing wheelie bins and burning them and obviously an aerosol can is the
type of thing that you might find in a wheelie bin. “It’s not something that I have received representations about myself, but I do know
that these are issues that young people face, and a call for parents to be vigilant is helpful, but it’s hard to gauge if it’s a big issue or not,” he said.
Motocross practice track set to be launched later this month Keith Bellew kbellew@dublingazette.com
chardstown and Fingal County Council.
The recently constructed Motocross practice track adjacent to Tolka Valley Park in Mulhuddart will be launched later this month. The track is being operated by Mulhuddart Motocross Club on a site which has been used as an unofficial track for many years. The track is now up and running following extensive consultation with the committee of the club, local residents in the nearby Parnell Estate, Safer Blan-
Conditions The track has been allocated to the club under a number of detailed conditions including regulations relating to times and regularity of usage, insurance and noise. This track will provide dirt-bike enthusiasts with a location to use their bikes in a safe environment away from parks, green spaces and other public areas. The use of these bikes had previously led to damage being done to
public spaces by the tyres. The track will be officially launched later this month and will be used by the members at times agreed in advance with the local residents and the council. The track is seen a positive development for all Fingal County Council said: “Since the engagement with the club began there has been an almost complete elimination of the damage previously caused to public lands due to this activity, and consequent substantial savings in the costs pre-
viously associated with the repair of damaged parks and pitches.” Cllr David McGuinness (Ind) said that parks like Ladyswell Park cannot be used for recreational sports purposes because of the situation regarding scramblers and quad bikes destroying the green area. “This is an attempt to address the issue that people want facilities, but also to get it out of our public parks. If this is successful, I have no doubt that it will be rolled out right across the city,” he said.
7 May 2015 BLANCH Gazette 3
st ciarans
Old Hansfield Road: treatment carried out to deal with rodents
Students in awards final
HSE takes action to tackle rat problem keith bellew
The pest control section of the HSE is currently carr ying out treatment along the Old Hansfield Road, particularly in the vicinity of Phibblestown Community Centre, following sightings of rats in the area. Rats have been spotted in numerous parts of the area and Cllr David McGuinness (Ind) has said that rodents were disturbed from their nests and spread out around the surrounding areas as a result of works being carried out at Hazelbury Park in the Castaheany area. T h e r e h ave b e e n numerous sightings of
rats in back gardens and other parts of the neighbourhood. The park is in a location which is close to Hartstown, Huntstown and Clonee and residents of each area have claimed to have spotted rats. Cllr McGuinness said many residents contacted him claiming to have seen rats in the area and he was trying to raise awareness of what to do if they spot rats in their area. “Rodents have been spotted in the back gardens of some of the houses around the park area and I have just been trying to highlight the fact that the HSE will come out to people’s
homes with poison to cut down the numbers [of rodents]. “Also if people see rodents on open space, the council are responsible for that.” He went on to say that activities in the park, which is used by Erin go Bragh GA A club, had to be called off for a number of days due to the rat problem. A council spokesperson said: “This matter was passed on to the Health Services Executive, pest control section and treatment is ongoing for rats. “The matter has also been referred to the litter warden as this may also be a factor of the rat infestation.”
Pass the test: Launching an effort to increase ambulance fleet founder of the Bumbleance children’s ambulance service Tony Heffernan is pictured getting his blood pressure taken by Kristine Krastina, Hickey’s Pharmacy, at the launch of free Blood Pressure Testing Week being hosted by Hickey’s Pharmacy’s 29 branches. The aim is to help fund efforts by Bumbleance to increase its ambulance fleet from two to five units through the voluntary donations made by customers. Also pictured is Hickey’s managing director Paddy Hickey. Picture: Mac Innes Photography
Students from St Ciaran’s NS, have been chosen, along with students from 14 other schools, to take part in the Dublin regional final of the Our World Irish Aid Awards 2015. The regional final will take place in the Clocktower Building at the Department of Education and Skills on Tuesday, May 19. If successful, the students could go on to compete in the national finals in Dublin Castle on June 16. Now in their 10th year, the awards are designed to help children in Ireland understand global issues For more information on how to take part in the Our World Irish Aid Awards 2015, please visit http://ourworldirishaidawards.ie/
4 BLANCH Gazette 7 May 2015
school Sacred Heart pupils were ‘amazing’ legal action: loss of revenue claims
Student effort adds up to competition success keith bellew
STUDENTS from the Sacred Heart of Jesus National School, Huntstown, excelled in this year’s MATHletes competition in what was the school’s first foray into the contest. MATHletes is based on the online learning portal, Khan Academy, approach to learning and teaching maths. Fourth to sixth class primary school pupils, and first to fifth year secondary students are eligible for the challenge.
Adrian Trinchinet
Students compete online through the Khan Academy website, and face-to-face against their peers, with more than €20,000 in prizes and the title of MATHletes Chal-
lenge All-Ireland Champion on offer. Ten students from the school made it into the final selection stages for the regional competition. Fourth class Adrian Trinchinet finished in the top 5% of the 12, 000 students nationwide who participated in the competition. The Sacred Heart finished eight in the country and third in Dublin, an achievement the school’s MATHletes co-ordinator, Jonathan Hanley, described as superb. Hanley told The
Gazette: “Myself and Mr [Seamus] O’Sullivan setup MATHletes for fourth and fifth class pupils and the response from the pupils was incredible over the four months, with almost 160 pupils participating”. He said: “I would like to thank all the teachers for their hard work helping to implement the programme and making it such a wonderful success.” He said what the pupils had put in to this year’s competition was amazing and it was great they had been rewarded.
Dublin Bus and Bus Eireann will take legal action as a result of the two-day strike. Picture: Mark Stedman/Photocall Ireland
Unions defiant over strikes in spite of threats Keith Bellew kbellew@dublingazette.com
Dublin Bus and Bus Eireann will legally challenge SIPTU and the National Bus and Rail workers Union (NBRU) for loss of revenue and damage to reputation as a result of the two-day strike on May 1 and 2. SIPTU and NBRU bus drivers engaged in strike action in opposition to the privatisation of 10% of their routes. Six of the 23 Dublin Bus routes put out to private tender, service areas in Dublin 15. Five more days of strikes are planned by the unions this month. SIP TU divisional organiser Owen Reidy said the dispute went well and was very well supported by members on Friday and Saturday. “Some of the vox pop was also supportive of drivers notwithstanding the fact that such disputes discommode the travelling public,” he said, adding that there had been no
contact from the Labour Relations Commission (LRC) or anyone else about a renewal of talks. Chief executives of both bus companies said the first two-day strike was illegal and are taking unprecedented action to legally challenge the unions. A spokesperson for the bus companies said: “It is critical to underline that management of both companies are not taking action directly against their employees, but are however seeking to recover losses from the two unions, NBRU and SIPTU, for taking what we believe is not only a reckless, but illegal action.” This followed the latest walk-out by both unions from emergency talks held ahead of the strikes at the LRC on April 28. Legal letters have been sent to the unions telling of this move to seek compensation and the bus companies will follow this by instigating proceedings in the High Court.
In response to the bus companies’ threat of legal action, NBRU general secretary Dermot O’Leary said: “It is unfortunate that the companies have chosen this course of action to threaten our members; we balloted our members in relation to what we contend is a genuine trade dispute, the companies would be better served if they concentrated their resources on working with other responsible stakeholders in resolving this dispute rather than attacking their own staff.” Transport Minister, Paschal Donohoe gave the unions a guarantee that Dublin Bus employees would not have to transfer to other bus operators nor will any change be made to their employment terms and conditions. He said he was extremely disappointed the unions had gone on strike as it would cause considerable damage to the economy.
7 May 2015 BLANCH Gazette 5
don’sdublin
A beautiful building we have all loved in Dublin THE Custom House is one of Dublin’s most important and beautiful buildings, and the first major work designed by James Gandon. He was also responsible for such iconic buildings as The Four Courts, King’s Inns and the curved screen and portico for the Irish Houses of Parliament facing College Street. John Beresford, who was appointed the Commissioner for Revenue in Ireland in 1780, was determined to have the new building further east and away from the Parliament Street–Capel Street axis. This decision met with great resistance from merchants, who felt that it would reduce trade and property values. Construction was halted by members of Dublin Corporation and the High Sheriff, who led a demonstration of many thousands. Beresford, however, was determined to have the building situated on the newly reclaimed land on the north quays, and appointed Thomas Cooley as architect. When he died suddenly, Beresford contacted Gandon, who came from London and began work in 1781. Work continued for 10 years, providing employment for the city’s carpenters and stonemasons, and was officially opened on November 7, 1791. It cost £200,000 – a huge sum at the time. The building is 375 feet in length and 205 feet in depth, and has four fronts, of which the south (facing the Liffey) is entirely of Portland stone, and the others of granite. The exterior is adorned with sculptures and coats-of-arms by Thomas Banks, Agnostino Carlini and Edward Smyth, who carved a series of sculpted keystones symbolising the rivers of Ireland. The building was destroyed in May 1921 during the Civil War, with centuries of records irrevocably lost. The dome, with the statue of Commerce atop, was replaced using Ardbraccan limestone that is darker than the original Portland stone. Sadly, most of Gandon’s original interior was destroyed and impossible to replace, but the building is still one of the city’s favourites.
Don Cameron
www.donsdublin.wordpress.com
courts Unprovoked nightclub assault on banker
Jailed for fracturing man’s jaw in two places A mechanic who fractured an investment banker’s jaw in two places in an unprovoked attack at a Dublin nightclub has been jailed for one year. Judge Martin Nolan described Bryan Dunne’s assault on former rugby playerAndrew Culhane as “cowardly”, before imposing a three-year sentence with two suspended.
Dunne (34) of Delwood Road, Castleknock, claimed he had felt threatened when the victim mocked him in the club’s toilets prior to the single punch attack. Dunne, a father-of-one, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to assaulting Mr Culhane causing him harm at Dicey Reilly’s, Harcourt
Street, in the early hours of May 15, 2012. He has 12 previous convictions for minor road traffic offences. Mr Culhane, who had been socialising with his former rugby team after they won a tournament, described how the attack left him with two metal plates in his jaw. He told the judge the incident
disrupted his final master’s exams and affected his confidence. He added that he could no longer play contact sports, which had been a huge part of his life, and that he could require more surgery. Garda John O’Neill told Antonia Boyle, BL, prosecuting, that Dunne expressed remorse for his actions when he attended
voluntarily for interview. Luigi Rea, BL, defending, submitted to judge Nolan that his client had no drink or drugs problem and realised his behaviour had been “outrageous and unacceptable”. Judge Nolan acknowledged that Dunne’s offence was a “once-off” but said he had to punish him for his actions.
6 BLANCH Gazette 7 May 2015
Anniversary Lilies placed on the graves of veterans
Dublin 15 remembers its 1916 Rising dead The D15 community gathered on April 25 to mark the 99th Anniversary of the 1916 Rising. The event, organised by the D15 Sinn Fein 1916 Centenary Committee, consisted of the laying
of a lily on the graves of several veterans of the Rising who are buried in Mulhuddart Cemetery, including Phadraig MacLogan Sinn Fein president from 1950-52 and again from 1956-60.
This was followed by a march to Mulhuddart village, led by the Sinn Fein Dublin Colour Party, the Rising Phoenix Dublin Republican Flute Band and the Cabra and Finglas historical societies in full
period dress uniforms of the Irish Volunteers and Cumann Na mBan. On arrival at Mulhuddart village, speeches were delivered by Luke Stynes, chairperson of the D15 Sinn Fein 1916 Cen-
tenary Committee, Cllr Paul Donnelly (SF) and Northern Ireland MEP Martina Anderson. A plaque dedicated to those who lost their lives during the Rising was unveiled.
Local
Matters S u p p o r t l o c a l b u s i n e ss
A dv e r t i s e w i t h t h e G a z e t t e ca ll
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The fact that no social houses are planned for the area isn’t good enough, according to Cllr David McGuinness (Ind)
council: first phase in plan to reduce housing list numbers
Dublin 15 left out of new social housing projects Keith Bellew
Four housing projects in Fingal, totalling €18.97m have been announced by Environment Minister Alan Kelly. However, none of these projects will be in Dublin 15. Fifty houses will be built at Racecourse Commons, Lusk, eight houses will be built at The Grange, Ballyboughill, 24 houses will be built at Castlelands, Balbriggan, and 25 houses will be built at Rathbeale Road, Swords. Cllr David McGuinness (Ind) said there was a huge housing crisis in Blanchardstown, and the fact that no social houses were planned in this tranche of the fund-
ing for the area isn’t good enough. A spokesperson for Fingal County Council said the feasibility of a number of sites in Dublin 15 were being considered for social housing projects. This is the first phase in a six-year plan to reduce the numbers on housing lists for which Minister Kelly has allocated €81m to the council. However, not everyone is satisfied with the plan as figures show that 75% of the units to be made available will be subsidised private rented accommodation and only 396 units will be council houses. The council plans to house 1,566 families
from the housing list over the next three years, 1,170 of these in subsidised private rented schemes. Cllr Paul Donnelly (SF) said these figures, coupled with the unavailability of rented accommodation in Dublin 15 and the refusal of many landlords to accept rent supplement mean the scheme was unfeasible. “The only winners from Minister Kelly’s targets are private landlords who will benefit handsomely from these subsidies,” he said. “Two hundred and thirteen families will be in leases of between four and 10 years in the Rental Accommodation Scheme (RAS) and 957 families will be offered
the Long Term Leasing Initiative. “However, families will still be living in private rented accommodation and ultimately with the same uncertainty. Deputy Ruth Coppinger (AAA) said the Government was relying on the private sector and private landlords to house families and this won’t work because landlords were not interested in the Housing Assistance Payment scheme and the RAS scheme because they could get much higher rents from non-social housing applicants. “The only way we’re going to solve the devastation that’s going on is by giving money to councils to build houses,” she said.
She went on to say that repossessions were continuing apace and her Blanchardstown office was inundated every day with families were are sleeping in cars. A spokesperson from the Department of Environment said it was confident the social housing strategy would address housing needs in Fingal, saying the council would be given housing targets over and above what they proposed to the Department to ensure delivery where need was greatest. A spokesperson for the council said it would continue to avail of all social housing delivery mechanisms in order to deliver housing in Fingal.
7 May 2015 BLANCH Gazette 7
Connolly Hospital Planning permission
A sketch design for a satellite centre of the new children’s hospital at Connolly Hospital
Children’s facility designs unveiled Keith Bellew
The project to develop a children’s facility at Connolly Hospital is coming on apace with plans for the design of the facility being unveiled last week. The facility, which will comprise a three-storey building including a walkin emergency department will be known as an urgent care centre, a paediatric out-patient department, children’s dentistry, observation beds and out-patient clinics, will serve as a satellite of the National Children’s Hospital proposed at St James’s Hospital.
Planning permission for the facility is due to be applied for in just under three months and barring any unforeseen issues with the plan, it is hoped that work will begin next year and the unit will be open in 2017. Minister for Health Leo Varadkar said: “Soon it will be possible to have sick children seen in Blanchardstown in the form of a satellite centre of the new children’s hospital which will open in 2017. I’m delighted that Blanchardstown was selected to house one of the two centres, which will work as part of the new chil-
dren’s hospital and which will have its main campus at St James’s.” He went on to say that it was going to be a fantastic addition to Connolly as it would be state-of-the-art and would offer the best possible care to children. “In less than three months time, the planning application for the three storey children’s unit will be lodged with An Bord Pleanala. We hope to get planning permission by the end of the year or early in 2016, and work should start next spring. That means the new children’s centre in Connolly
will open in 2017. That’s only two years away.” Tanaiste Joan Burton welcomed the outline of the plans, saying the plans would lead to a state-ofthe-art children’s facility in Connolly Hospital, to accommodate children from Dublin 15 and further afield. “I had a very productive meeting with hospital management in recent weeks, in which they laid out their ambitious plans for the unit, including its location within the hospital,” she said, adding that this was a significant marker of progress at Connolly Hospital.
Remembering Fingal in 1916 Fingal County Council is seeking interest from artists to make new work to reflect and reimagine the unique Fingal experiences of the 1916 rising. All types of art, including visual art, dance, literature, music, opera, theatre and film are being sought to bring the Fingal 1916 experience
to life. Fingal chief executive Paul Reid said the people of Fingal played a unique and significant role in the 1916 Rising and it was important that this be highlighted and commemorated in Fingal during 2016. C a r o l i n e C ow l e y, council public art coordinator is “excited by
the possibility of imagination and vision that the arts can bring to our unique 1916 story and the selected artists will have the support of the dedicated expert commemorations committee”. The commission will be a two-stage competition, with the artists invited to submit expressions
of interest and outline the proposal and budget by June 8. These will be shortlisted to stage two by an expert panel and invited to further develop their projects. A full commission brief and criteria is available from the arts office. Contact Caroline at caroline.cowley@fingal. ie, ph: 01 8708449.
8 BLANCH Gazette 7 May 2015
gazetteGALLERIES
Roisin Allen
Clelia Murphy (Fair City’s Niamh) and Dublin Senior footballer Alan Brogan
blanchardstown: campaign sets up shop at local centre
Change appeal to help charities with funding U
nused coppers were in huge demand at Blanchardstown Centre recently at the launch of the Change for Charity fountain appeal. There were plenty of celebrities who
attended including Cleclia Murphy and Today FM’s Phil Cawley, to show their support for the initiative, which is the brainchild of Norma Smurfit. It collects one and two cent coins
that are not being otherwise used. The campaign supports five charities; St Vincent De Paul, The Irish Heart Foundation, Gaisce, Irish Autism Action and the Irish hospices.
Imelda and Aoibhinn Mooney
Leah Coulson, Change for Charity; Lavina Homan, Our Andrea and Jayden Buckley
Lady’s Hospice and Clelia Murphy
Liam and An-Louise Guinand
Ellen and Nicole Waterhouse
7 May 2015 BLANCH Gazette 9
blanch library: Dublin: One City, One Book
One for the books Irek Sendlak
Donal Fallon
Helen Goodman and Carol Kiely listening attentively as author Donal Fallon examines the historical context and backdrop to Roddy Doyle’s A Star Called Henry and The Commitments at Blanchardstown Library. The event was part of the Dublin: One City, One Book initiative, which encourages everyone to read a book connected with the capital city during the month of April every year.
Michelle Doyle
Dan Kenny
10 Gazette 7 May 2015
gazetteGALLERY
Building Blocks is modelled by Aideen Rafferty
Frayed in the Dark, a dress made from black plastic bags, is modelled by Paulina Vilimaite from Loreto, Balbriggan, at the final of the Bank of Ireland Junk Kouture Competition in association with Repak at the 3 Arena, Dublin. Pictures: Brian McEvoy
funky junk: fashion show takes recycling to a new level
Students sweep boards in not so shabby attire
E
IGHTY secondary school students sported their couture designs fashioned from junk on the [alley] catwalk at the 3 Arena recently. They were centre stage at the grand finale of the Bank of Ireland Junk Kouture competition in association with the Repak Recycled
Fashion Competition 2015. After months of preparations the teenagers strutted their carefully choreographed routine in the hope of impressing the judges in front of thousands of screaming fans. Louis Walsh gave the judging panel the X-factor when he joined Vogue
Williams, Rob Condon, Tracey Fahey and Laura Murphy The Laura Larkin Community School took the best performance prize for Supercalifashionisticexpialidocious. It was one of a number of winners from the Dublin area, including Loreto, Balbriggan.
Woven Data is worn by Bronwyn Linnane
Nadine Doherty, Andrea Hutchinson Lara McGee and Sienna Hutchinson
Kate O’Brien, Heather O’Connor and Grainne Wilson
Louis Walsh
Aurica Syrbu is the Queen of the Forest
7 May 2015 Gazette 11
asdfsdaf business P27 P16
referendum p14
dublinlife Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week
a day in the life: senator david norris, colourful and robust
what’son
‘I always find myself getting fired up by ideas’ ian begley
David Norris, an individual who has stirred up the very fabric of Irish society on many occasions, has a vast array of accomplishments to his name and has earned much admiration throughout his 70 years. His colour ful and r ob ust p erso na has made him an institution in himself, and being an Irish scholar, senator, gay and civil rights a c t i vi st and fo rmer presidential candidate it is no surprise that we asked Norris what a typical day in his life is like. “I get out of bed quite early at 7am and begin my day by listening to the news. “For breakfast I always have the same thing – a cup of coffee and a bowl of Kellogs Fruit and Fibre. “Since my liver trans-
plant I don’t have a lot of physical energy, but I have lots of intellectual energy and always find myself getting fired up by ideas. “I always bring a lot of my documents home from Leinster House and pile them up in my kitchen, which is where I do most of my work.” Norris, who has lived on North Great G e o r g e ’s S t r e e t f o r nearly 40 years, adds that he is in the Senate nearly every day and wishes it would reopen on the weekends. “I campaigned to get the Senate open at the weekends, which it was but then they closed it again because of the recession and I was the only one who used it,” he laughs. “I don’t do very much socialising, but when I come back home I like feed the birds in the garden and feed my goldfish in their pond,
and love watching them while I’m having my breakfast or evening dinner. “In my free time I have a wonderful old car [Jaguar XJ6] that I love to drive around in. I sometimes drive to Bull Island and get out to take a little walk or even to Howth to pick up some crab claws in Wrights.” Norris confesses to being computer illiterate, never having turned one on in his life. “I don’t know anything about them but for political purposes Miriam [his secretary] handles that for me. “I have 41,000 followers on Twitter and again I don’t do any of the mechanics, but the words are all mine.” After a long day, Norris adds, he heads to bed between 9.30pm and 10pm, after partaking in some night time reading or TV watching.
Gazette
diary p12
an outlandish opera with a modern theme
David Norris has built up a vast array of accomplishments and admiration throughout his 70 years
“I read a lot before heading to bed and also like to watch a bit of television. I have really gotten interested
in watching the detective drama, Endeavor, which is the story about a young inspector in Oxford.
“In the old days I wouldn’t fall asleep until maybe 3am but these days I tend to get tired more easily.”
OUTLANDISH Theatre Platform (OTP) will perform a mini-opera, EX-hib-IT-US 2015, at Filmbase in Temple Bar from May 14 – 16. FEX-hib-IT-US 2015 is a contemporary mini opera about Dublin today, featuring professional actors performing alongside residents of St Teresa’s Gardens. For two years, OTP worked on a collaborative arts project with the remaining residents of St Teresa’s Gardens in Dublin 8 – a social housing estate on the brink of demolition. This collaboration resulted in a one off inter-media performance installation, and a film, entitled: Come into The Gardens. EX-hib-IT-US 2015 is the concluding piece in this long-term project. For this latest production, OTP has written new songs and scores, which reveal an artistic exploration of the human structure of Dublin’s ever-changing social city landscape. The final performance will be followed by a post-show discussion: “From the real to the stage, full-circle”. For further information, see www.outlandishtheatre.com.
Gazette
12 Gazette 7 May 2015
dublinlife
diary
A candlelight vigil to commemorate migrants, who died trying to get to Europe, took place in the Dublin Unitarian Church and was organised by the Jesuit organisation, Dialogue and Diversity
Migrants lost at sea recalled A CANDLELIGHT vigil to commemorate migrants, who died trying to get to Europe, took place recently, in Dublin Unitarian Church. The event was organised by the Jesuit organisation, Dialogue and Diversity, to highlight a humanitarian problem after more than 900 people drowned trying to make the crossing from north Africa. In the past 20 years more than 25,000 immigrants lost their lives in the Mediterranean Sea. Piotr Gawlik, chair of Dialogue and Diversity, said: “We must not forget that those who passed away were somebody’s loved ones.” He said there was undoubtedly a border crisis, with irregular migration from a large geographic area, involving hundreds of thousands of people every year, who
risked their lives trying to get to Europe. The vigil was attended by Cllr Ciaran Cuffe (GP) and representatives of the Immigrant Council of Ireland, Amnesty International and Crosscare.
Students to show off their liguistics skills THREE secondary school students from Dublin along with one from Donegal have been selected to test their language decoding skills against the world’s best at the International Linguistics Olympiad in Blagoevgrad, Bulgaria, in July. The students finished ahead of 120 opponents in the All Ireland Linguistics Olympiad finals recently at Dublin City University. Samuel Barron of Sutton Park School was the overall winner of the individual competition. He will be joined in Bulgaria
by fellow team members Luke Gardiner of Gonzaga College, Ranelagh; Ethan Hamman of Newpark Comprehensive, Blackrock; and Niamh Lynch of Loreto Letterkenny, Donegal. From a starting line-up of 4,000 students from 161 secondary schools spanning 29 counties, the top 123 battled it out during individual and team contests. Competitors engaged in codebreaking challenges to unlock information in unfamiliar languages. This year’s individual contests included puzzles in Evenki, an inner Mongolian language; Murrinhpatha, an indigenous Australian language spoken by only 3,000 people; and the Georgian writing system.
Meet the entire family on the library website THE National Library of
Ireland has announced plans to enable people to investigate their genealogy with relative ease from July onwards. The entire collection of Catholic parish register microfilms held by the library will be made available online, at no charge, from July 8. The dedicated website will make available more than 390,000 digital images of the microfilm reels on which the parish registers are recorded. The library has been working to digitise the microfilms for more than three years under its most ambitious digitisation programme. The parish register records are considered the single most important source of information on Irish family history prior to the 1901 census. Dating from the 1740s to the 1880s, they cover
1,091 parishes throughout the island of Ireland, and consist primarily of baptismal and marriage records. For more information see www.nli.ie
ivan yates happy to eat ice cream for good cause IVAN Yates and Lottie Ryan both screamed for ice cream as they launched this year’s HB Hazelbrook Farm Ice Cream Fundays Campaign in aid of Down Syndrome Ireland. They are calling on people in Dublin to organise their own ice cream party this summer to raise much needed funds for the organisation. HB provides everything needed for the party in a comprehensive pack, and all funds raised go to front line services. P a t C l a r ke , c h i e f
executive of Down Syndrome Ireland, said: “The HB Hazelbrook Farm Ice Cream Fundays Campaign is a fantastic and fun way of raising funds for our organisation. “The support from both HB and the public means that we can maintain the level and quality of essential services that we provide to our members.” For more information visit w w w.dow nsy ndrome.ie or email sandrab@downsyndrome. ie, for your ice cream fundays pack.
Bruton reeling after selection rejection JOBS Minister Richard Bruton was faced with shock and embarrassment last week, when he failed to be chosen to run for Fine Gael in the next general election in his own constituency,
Dublin Bay North. The shock followed a dramatic selection convention in the constituency. Fine Gael members voted to select Cllr Naoise O Muiri and former local election candidate Stephanie Regan to run for the party at the next election. Unfortunately for Bruton, he was not selected alongside Regan as previously expected, after members were directed to select one male and one female candidate in order to comply with new gender quota rules. The party’s executive council has now added Bruton to the ticket in ,k,lwhat was a setback and embarrassment for the Minister and the party. Reports indicated that Bruton was described as being visibly shocked when the result was announced.
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dublinlife
Different views on why This week, two people with opposing opinions give us their views on how they would like to see the electorate vote in the upcoming referendum on marriage equality
Vote Yes to extend true equality to all families
Conor Pendergrast The blogger writes about his personal experience of being raised by two lesbian parents
MY BROTHER Daragh and I are the children of two wonderful women, Ann and Bernadette. As a child, I spent my early years in London. I was fortunate to have a diverse group of friends and to meet people from every walk of life. Our neighbours were also a family headed by two mums, and we were far from the only similar families in the city. Even that long ago, there were parenting groups for lesbian and gay people, which my parents attended. Moving back to Ireland (where Bern was born and raised) was a bit of a change; whereas once my brother’s skin colour meant little (his sperm donor was a British Indian man, whereas mine was a white British man), now he was the only person who wasn’t white in the school. Our English accents also made us stick out a mile. In comparison with those barriers we faced, the fact that our parents
are two women was pretty insignificant to onlookers! Our classmates didn’t think us having two mums was weird; in fact, they thought it was really cool! Overall, my family is similar to a lot of other families, and yet there are those who think that my mums shouldn’t have the option to marry. Luck-
ily, we’ve seen incredible progress over the past 20 years in rights for lesbian, gay and bisexual people. The decriminalisation of homosexuality in the 1990s meant that, from one perspective, their love was no longer illegal. Equality legislation was introduced, which means that discrimination based on sexuality is no longer
7 May 2015 Gazette 15
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same sex marriage
the May 22 vote matters tolerated (in most, but sadly not all, cases). Civil Partnership led to the option for people in same-sex couples to have their relationships recognised, to a degree. This year, the Child and Family Relationships Act finally granted the option for me to have a legal relationship with both of my parents. And then, there were the lesser-known pieces of legislation that have led to much greater support and recognition of families like mine. And yet, inequality still exists. My mums have, as you can see, raised a family despite the lack of marriage equality. It is a great falsehood to make the discussion on this referendum about the families that same-sex couples will raise: there have, and will continue to be, children like me raised in families headed by lesbian, gay and bisexual people. To vote “No” on that basis is to ignore the reality: we’re already living
in communities around Ireland. Sadly, those campaigning in opposition to the referendum have shown no interest in listening to me and my brother’s perspectives, and have effectively ignored us and families like us for years, only to rise up now and scream: “Won’t someone think of the children?” I’m getting to the stage of my life where a number of my friends are starting to marry. I myself am engaged to a wonderful woman, with whom so far I have spent eight happy years, and with whom I intend to spend my life. The idea of my parents not having the option to marry each other, after being together for more than 30 years, saddens me. The idea that my wonderful lesbian, gay and bisexual friends can’t marry the people they love feels deeply wrong. I can’t help but wonder what it is that makes my love for Alana legitimate and deserving of recognition by society, but Ann
and Bern’s love for each other undeserving? In the end, the referendum on marriage equality is not about lofty hypothetical situations or philosophical debates; it’s not about whether same-sex couples will raise families (they have for decades, and will continue to do so). It’s not about whether you’re annoyed by the current Government; it’s not about where you’re from. The referendum on marriage equality simply comes down to one question: will we decide to treat our people equally, or not? Should your sons and daughters, your parents, your aunts and uncles, your cousins, your friends, your neighbours, your teachers, your nurses, and everyone else you know who happens to be lesbian, gay or bisexual, be able to marry the person they love? The outcome of the referendum will demonstrate this: are we all equal, or are we not?
Daragh Pendergrast-Manning, Conor Pendergrast, Bernadette Manning and Ann Pendergrast. Picture: Alan Betson, courtesy of The Irish Times
Anne Murray: “This debate is not about equality and rights, but about changing the meaning of marriage”
Vote No to protect the meaning of marriage
Anne Murray Mothers and Fathers Association
THINK before you vote. I believe we need to support rights. As a woman, I understand discrimination, and as a mother, I understand what it is to fight for the needs of a child. This debate needs to broaden to include rights of all. People make wellintentioned general statements about rights, but we need to look at universal rights and what they say. On July 16, 2014, the European Cour t of Human Rights confirmed that there is no right to grant access to marriage to same-sex couples. The Referendum Commission states that the vote is about marriage. So this debate is not about equality and rights, but about changing the meaning of marriage
from between one man and one woman to one between any two people, without distinction as to their sex. There has always been limitations to marriage, eg age, one cannot marry close family members, and one has to be of sound mind. What we have in Ireland to give legal recognition to same sex relationships is Civil Partnership, which is specifically for gay people. The Constitution belongs to the people of Ireland and it reflects as a country what we believe, and our laws have to reflect what is in our Constitution. Article 41.3.1 is the part of the Constitution that links family and marriage and this is the section we are being asked to change. We cannot have this debate without consider-
ing the rights of children. Children have a right to know their mother and father, as per the UN convention of the Rights of the Child, as they are an integral part of a child’s identity. Human beings have a right to their mother and father, and we are designed to long for a relationship with both of our biological parents. If we vote Yes, it will mean that any two men or any two women have the same constitutional right as a man and woman to have a family if they are married. We know a man and a woman together can produce a baby. However, if two men or two women have no children from a previous relationship, or by adoption, then how can they have a baby, given that they are not biologically designed to do so?
For the male couple, they will have to contact a surrogacy agency, arrange to buy an egg and pay a woman to carry the baby to birth, when the baby will then be given to the couple. After the birth, this baby then will have no connection with its mother. The baby will never know what it is like to be held in her mother’s arms. I certainly, as a new mother, remember with great joy and wonder looking at my newborn baby. There is no denying same-sex parents can be great parents. The problem is not the gay parent, but rather the missing parent. We Irish know the value of family, and this proposed change will have serious consequences for future generations of our children. Please vote No.
dublinlife
Norwegian dry ice firm open a Dublin manufacturing site NORWEGIAN-based international chemical company Yara has officially opened a dry ice manufacturing site in Dublin, with the creation of five jobs. Yara Ireland provides dry ice in Ireland across a variety of sectors including aviation, refrigeration, food storage, medical services and the entertainment industry. Petter Østbø, vice president of Gas & Industrial Applications, Yara, said: “While Yara have been operating for some time in Ireland, we decided to invest in this new strategically
located manufacturing site in Dublin, to serve the Irish market on demand, in small or large quantities of dry ice as required.” T he Nor wegian Charge d’Affaires in Ireland, Sølve Steinhovden, was welcomed to the plant by Irish and Norwegian Yara personnel at the official opening, which was presided over by representatives from IDA Ireland. Yara market manager for Ireland Gerard Dore said the company expected to increase its workforce as market demand increases.
business
forecast: government bullish about the economy
‘Lost jobs back by 2018’
MINISTER for Finance Michael Noonan has said all of the jobs lost in the recession would be replaced by 2018. He made his remarks recently on the publication of the Government’s Spring Economic Statement, and added that 200,000 jobs would be created between now and 2020, forecasting that two million people would be employed nationwide by next year. Overall, his remarks m ay b e v i e we d a s extremely hopeful as he believed the Government may be in a position to introduce expansionary budgets from now until 2020.
He said there would be no return to the boomand-bust-budget model of the past. Noonan said: “Over the period 2011 to 2015, the deficit was reduced from €15bn to €4.5bn. However, we were in a position to achieve these targets with less tax increases and expenditure cuts than originally envisaged, and to bring an end to the era of austerity budgets much earlier than originally planned.” On another positive note, he said that having peaked in 2013, the national debt was now on a firm downward path, and was expected
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to drop below 100% of GDP and move towards the EU average in the coming years. Minister for Public Expenditure and Reform Brendan Howlin also had some good news, in the form of intended spending increases of between €600m and €750m for 2016. He said the expansion would enable the Government to deal with underlying demographic pressures in social protection, education and health. He said the Government was commitment to pension provision, and intended to increase the current national
Minister Michael Noonan: “Over the period 2011 to 2015, the deficit was reduced from €15bn to €4.5bn”
spend of €6.5bn a year by €200m as the population aged. He went on to hint at forthcoming public service pay increases, saying the Government had agreed to his proposal to enter into discussions with trade unions on
public service pay. He believed it was wise to plan for a steady winding down of the emergency provisions that had been introduced to deal with the gap in the public finances, which included pay cuts for public servants.
7 May 2015 Gazette 17
food P21
asdfsdaf P27 health P24
OUT&ABOUT Never be out of the loop on what’s happening in Dublin! Let Out&About be your guide to all that is stylish, cultural and essential across the city and beyond this week
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travel P20
Pets A golden oldie with a heART OF GOLD
There was neigh-one better than George to help dancer Emma O’Kane announce details of Dublin Dance Festival
2015. Emma will star in WillFredd
Theatre`s new production, Jockey, which premieres during the festival. Picture: Photocall Ireland
dance: exciting events promised over an energetic fortnight in dublin
Step up to a great festival
keith bellew
AN EXCITING and diverse array of dancers from around the world with expertise in a range of different styles will descend on Dublin from May 19 -31 for the Dublin Dance Festival 2015. This year’s programme promises to be one of the best yet, with artists from Germany, Switzerland, Belgium, Canada and Spain, among others, gracing the event. The festival will be opened at the Abbey Theatre on Tuesday, May 19 by choreographer Meg Stuart. With her company, Damaged Goods, she will officially open the festival with their new show, Built to Last, in their first ever visit to Ireland. The show is described as an epic journey of movement and music through the
history of dance and beyond. Other highlights of this year’s packed programme include Dublin Dance Festival and the Goethe-Institut Irland’s collaboration on Tuesday 19 and Wednesday 20 to perform exhibitions of fearless dance from Germany for all tastes and ages on the stages, streets and screens of Dublin. Later, the festival and the Abbey Theatre will co-present the world premiere of choreographer Liz Roche’s major new work, Bastard Amber, on Tuesday, 26. This event marks the first time that an Irish choreographer has been commissioned to create a work for the Abbey Theatre’s main stage. Fiach MacConghail, Abbey Theatre director said: “It has been a long-term ambition of mine to premiere the work
of an Irish choreographer at The Abbey. “I am delighted to welcome Liz Roche and Dublin Dance Festival to present this exciting new dance work on our main stage.” Families are also well catered for this year, with Family Season at The Ark. Here, Barrowland Ballet will present Tiger Tale – a tale of a tiger who invades a troubled family’s world and helps them to rediscover their wild sides. For younger children, Celestine Hennermann‘s Elephant Walk will see dozens of multi-coloured buckets transform the stage of the Ark as two dancers bring an array of familiar creatures to life on stage. Speaking about this year’s programme, which will be the last in her four-year tenure as festival director, Julia Carruthers
said: “Dance artists are moving like brilliant magpies across tradition, and I hope this programme captures the ‘right-now’ of international and Irish dance. “This year, our national theatre amplifies the importance of dance with an ambitious programme of three dance performances on the Abbey stage, including leading work from Europe, cutting-edge contemporary flamenco and a major Irish premiere.” The festival is also offering opportunities to engage with dance through masterclasses, talks, and Fast Track to Dance – a weekend programme for those who would like to learn more about dance, run by Niamh McCann and Lynnette Moran of Live Collision. For further information about the festival, see www.dublindancefestival.ie.
The Gazette Newspaper has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week is week is golden oldie, Takara, who’s a 10-year-old Jack Russell terrier. Takara is one of our TLC dogs, which means that she needs a little extra time, love and commitment from her new home. Takara is a little worried in kennels, so we’d really love to get this little dog into her new home as soon as possible. Takara is a busy lady, who would like a relaxed home with maybe one person or a couple, who will allow her time and space to settle in – oh, and who will provide her with lots of tennis balls! If you think you could give this fabulous dog her perfect home, please contact Dogs Trust on 01-879 1000. It is based in Finglas, just off Exit 5 on the M50. A map and directions can be found on www. dogstrust.ie.
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OUT&ABOUT
Beautybits Treat your skin to the Ultrasonic Facial mimi murray
Viva La Beauty Salon on Marlborough Street is run by 22-year-old Barbara Carter and the salon offers an amazing treatment, the Ultrasonic Facial. Barbara Carter
This is a gentle, non-invasive
treatment that is safe and suitable for all skin types, from acne to rosacea and mature skin. Even the most sensitive skin will benefit from this treatment. The promise is that increased blood flow stimulates collagen plumping up the skin and ironing out fine lines and wrinkles. This advanced anti-aging procedure gives your skin a much healthier, more youthful look and feel and the therapist told me that if done regularly it can emulate the effects of a facelift. So far, so what’s not to love! Barbara started off by cleansing my face with organic oil cleanser with lavender and ylang ylang to prepare it for the machine, which sends ultrasound vibrations into the skin to penetrate into the pores and remove everything from dirt or make up to blackheads. This gives a really deep-cleanse providing a mini microdermabrasion that is so unobtrusive it can be used weekly. The ultrasound waves are then used on another setting to penetrate organic aloe vera gel products into the skin to soothe after this deep cleanse. The machine penetrates the products into the skin more effectively than a regular facial. Increased oxygen and blood circulation to underlying tissues from the current leaves your skin thoroughly cleansed, revitalized and glowing. I noticed a uniform look to my face instantly. An organic face mask is applied for 10 minutes. Finally the machine uses a micro current setting that sends minor pulses into the skin to stimulate the facial muscles, toning them and giving the face a lift. I found it great around the neck area and under the eyes for crows feet. The treatment takes an hour and was the perfect mix of soothing and science.
Aurelia cardigan €116
Azura dress €65
Natural beauty
Flora Beau dress €52
Sustainable and eco-friendly fashion brand, Braintree Clothing, has arrived at Dublin’s most iconic department store, Clerys. Braintree is a natural clothing company born is Sydney and now based in London. It is a unique independent fashion outfit with a simple philosophy – to design and make beautiful, timeless fashion while caring for our environment. Braintree has been championing eco fibres since its humble beginnings in the mid-1990s and all ranges are made with sustainability in Marley batwing sweater €65 mind with fabrics such as hemp, bamboo and organic cotton.
Zinnia plaid skirt €78
For more info go to www.vivalabeauty.biz
Juvi launches new jewellery range for the summer
Juvi has launched its new jewellery range for summer 2015, made up of two lines, the Boho Collection and the Antibes Collection
Irish design company Juvi, founded by Julie Danz and Vincent Tynan, has launched its new jewellery range for Summer 2015, made up of two lines, the Boho Collection and the Antibes Collection. Inspired by their travels and the natural beauty of the places they have visited, the new range showcases exquisite gemstones in summertime colours reminiscent of sea, sand, sunsets and beautiful vistas. The Boho Collection has a
relaxed vibe that is perfect for everyday wear, while the Antibes Collection exudes the grown-up elegance and sophistication of the Cote d’Azur. Both new lines feature gemstones sourced all over the world and brought back to Ireland, from cool aqua chalcedony to radiant blue topaz, all set in sterling silver- or 18ct gold-plated jewellery. Julie and Vincent are a husband and wife duo who combine their talents and backgrounds as an interior designer and silversmith
to create unique, striking pieces at their studio in Dublin. Vincent has more than 20 years’ experience working as a silversmith, while Julie’s bold approach to design is influenced by her time in New York, working under Carleton Varney, one of America’s most adventurous and colourful interior designers. They share a passion for finding beauty in the raw, and are enthralled by the natural purity of colour in precious stones.
Speaking about the collection, Julie explains: “We use very high quality stones, they speak for themselves; people are attracted to their colour, tactility and weight. Our philosophy is quite simple – we want to offer affordable luxury. We believe it is important for women to spoil themselves on occasion.” Juvi is available at House of Fraser, Arnotts, Kilkenny and independent retailers throughout Ireland, or online at www.juvidesigns.com.
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STYLE
Artistry’s Multi Protect SPF 30 €25.35. It is a Lightweight moisturizer shielding the skin from harmful UVA and UVB exposure as it combats free radicals and environmental pollutants. Visit www.amway.ie
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Eight Hour Cream Targeted Sun Defense Stick SPF 50 €20 is water and perspiration-resistant, ophthalmologically, clinically and dermatologically tested, oil and PABA-free, suitable for all skin types and offers the hydrating benefits for up to eight hours.
Sun!
Fun in the
La Roche-Posay Anthelios XL SPF 50+ Cream €19.50 for sensitive and sunintolerant skin. Protection from UVA and UVB exposure.
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Shiseido Ultra Sun Protection WetForce broad spectrum SPF 50+ face cream €39. Water resistent for up to 80 minutes.
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Olay Essentials Complete Care SPF 30 Day Lotion provides up to eight hours moisturisation, SPF 30 protection and pampering vitamins, combined with a non-greasy formula and retails at €12.89 RRP. Available nationwide. See www.olay.ie
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20 gazette 7 May 2015
OUT&ABOUT
TRAVEL
FastTravel Get the latest on top cruises ON MAY 10 at the Red Cow Morans Hotel, e-Travel.ie are hosting an exclusive cruise event with top holiday deals and unique shows from some of the world’s most luxurious cruise liners. Taking place from 12 – 5pm, the event will boast fun-filled, actionpacked holidays for the whole family on board top luxury ships. In addition, e-travel will also exhibit free presentations from all of the cruise lines attending, including Q&A sessions. For further information, see www.etravel.ie.
Whether in high summer or any time of the year, Gregans Castle Hotel, Clare (above) will delight – just one of a number of terrific holiday getaways right here in Ireland
ireland: a wonderful break awaits right here
Summer getaways ian begley
THERE’S no better way to indulge yourself in the sights and sounds of Ireland now that summertime is almost here. With lots of offers and picturesque places to visit this summer, an Irish weekend break away is certainly a great way to roll in the long evenings. With Ireland’s Blue Book, why not give yourself some peace and quiet by heading as far west as you can go, to beautiful Connemara? Breathe in the pure air and see the stars in a velvety sky and enjoy a day trip to the Aran Islands and Inish Lacken. This offer includes three nights’ accommodation and breakfast with dinner on two evenings, ferry tickets to Aran and a boat trip to Inish Lacken in this little bit of paradise, from €295pps. Over at Coopershill House, Sligo, majestic
mountains, ancient ruins and miles of sandy beach lie at its doorstep. Nestled in the centre of a 500-acre private estate of mature hardwoods, deer pastures and its own river you can certainly expect a relaxing and tranquil summer escape. Built in 1774, Coopershill has been the family home to eight generations of the O’Haras and is the perfect base for exploring the stunning northwest of Ireland. From €360pp, you can spend three nights in this iconic country house throughout the summer until October 31. For bird lovers, a short visit to Longueville House in Cork is the perfect setting to explore and expand your interest in ornithology with professional bird-watching guide Michael Cobley. Cobley – chair of the West Cork branch of Bird Watch Ireland – has
years of experience guiding groups of various experience levels, including newcomers. This overnight package for €355 for two is valid from May 16 – 18 and includes a gourmet dinner, plus maps of local country strolls and hikes. For three nights from €405pps, a getaway to the Gregans Castle Hotel, Clare will help you witness the astonishing array of flowering plants to be found growing in the Burren.
Glorious As part of this package, you can join local guide Shane Connolly on a half day’s walking adventure, where you will see the glorious gentians, mountain avens, violets, orchids and a myriad of floral delights. Afterwards, visit the B u r r e n P e r f u m e r y, where the floral theme continues – you may
be tempted to purchase some scented potion to ease the blisters on your feet! This three-night bed and breakfast package comes with a six-course dinner on two evenings and includes a half day’s guided walk at an easy pace. If you have had enough exertion, return to the pampering environment of Gregans Castle Hotel where, amid their own garden landscape setting, you can enjoy three nights of tranquil indulgence and culinary treats. Alternatively, if you fancy a luxury weekend break away with your partner or to spend some quality time with your family, Killashee House Hotel is the ideal place to relax and unwind. For further information on these offers, see w w w. i r e l a n d s - b l u e book.ie or contact the hotels directly.
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FOOD&DRINK BITESIZEDNEWS
Enjoy the best of both worlds with this yummy favourite from Boutique Bakes and Cakes
The perfect brownie cheesecake combo HERE is one of Boutique Bakes’ favourite recipes, Cheesecake Brownies. It is easy to make and goes down a treat with family and friends. You can use any fruit. Ingredients Cedar Tree, St Andrew’s Street, Dublin, wrap €5
FAB Fabulous falafels
Taste Cafe, South William Street, Dublin, €12
Whether you are a dedicated veggie or a meat muncher looking for a lighter bite, falafel is a perfectly pleasing comfort food. It can be served on its own with dips like hummus or tahini, included in a warmed wrap or perched with pride of place atop a fresh salad. This month we have featured our top five falafel places in Dublin. Do you agree? Have we missed a place? Let us know on the Gazette Newspaper’s Facebook page or on Twitter at @DublinGazette. Next month we will be searching for the best coffee in the city.
Brownie Layer 1 Boutique Bake brownie mix 150g melted butter 3 eggs Or 400g caster sugar 225g butter, melted 60g cocoa powder 4 eggs 225g self-raising flour 1/2 teaspoon salt Cheesecake Layer 100g icing sugar 250g cream cheese 150ml cream 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract/scraping of 1 pod 1 small punnet of raspberries (washed)
Preparation Brownie Layer • Preheat your oven to 180C (160 Fan) • Mix our brownie mix with 3 eggs and 150g of melted butter (or if using alternative recipe mix all required ingredients) until well combined. • Spoon mixture into a greased/lined square tin (10 x 7 inch) • Bake for 20 to 25 mins
UMI Dame Street, €7
The Fumbally, Fumbally Lane, Dublin, €8
Little Jerusalem, Rathmines, €7.50
Cheesecake Layer • Whip the cream cheese with an electric whisk until creamy. In separate bowl, whip the cream until it starts to become stiff. • Add the icing sugar to the whipped cheese and fold in the cream. Add in the vanilla. • Cut up the raspberries and fold into the mixture. • When the brownie is cool, gently spread the cheesecake mixture evenly on top. • Pop into the fridge for about 4 hours to set before taking out of tin. • Remove from the tin and slice into squares. • Serve with more raspberries and some lightly whipped cream for a real treat. For more go to www.cakesandbakes.co.uk
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22 Gazette 7 May 2015
OUT&ABOUT
Fused
Donal Lunny, Playing
Donal Lunny hangs out in National Gallery Bairbre ni bhraonain
THIS week saw the National Gallery of Ireland unveil a new portrait commission, Donal Lunny, Playing. This addition to the gallery is a celebration of the multi-talented musician, composer and Tullamore, County Offaly man and was painted by Sligo-based artist Nick Miller. It went on public display on April 17 at a special launch event in the gallery. T he commission was part of the inaugural Hennessy Portrait Prize, which Miller won. Lunny was among those who attended the recent unveiling of the piece in the Beit wing of the gallery. In addition to having a place in the prestigious National Galler y of Ireland, M i l l e r ’s p o r t r a i t , Donal Lunny, Playing, won the artist a cash prize of €15,000 through the Hennessy prize. The new commission, valued at €5,000, is now part of the the National Portrait Collection at the gallery. The National Gallery of Ireland chose the subject matter of the portrait.
ARTS
hedda gabler: a triumph at the abbey
A wounded creature who still captivates Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
IRISH playwright Mark O’Rowe described Hedda Gabler as a “mass of contradictions” and an enigmatic figure so powerful she had endured as a dramatic staple since the play first premiered in 1891. Such fascination about this theatrical metacharacter led O’Rowe to undertake a reworking of the original Henrik Ibsen play, and the fruits of this can be seen at the Abbey Theatre this May. O’Rowe’s adaptation takes Gabler into the 21st century with great ease. Such a modern play easily lends itself to an updating, and seems most natural. It is achieved through O’Rowe’s delicate use of language. Gabler, had she been written today, would certainly have used the odd expletive, so volatile is her tormented nature at times. This, O’Rowe does, but does not overdo; he thereby maintains the shock value of a general’s daughter with pristine manners dressed in impeccable 19th century garb using foul language.
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‘Ibsen deserves most adulation for summoning up something so wounded and lost in the main character that it is enough to feed future imaginations for centuries’ --------------------------
Gabler, played solidly if wanting in nuance by Catherine Walker, returns to the house she chose on a whim after six months honeymooning in Europe. She does not particularly like the house, but said she wanted to live there during a lull in the conversation with her then future husband. Though she constantly surprises in her actions and decisions; impulsiveness is a trait threaded through her character as a desperate effort to feel alive. She is gifted, intelligent, wry and original,
but Gabler lives in a time where the only tool she can use to carve a name for herself in the world is a husband. Of her decision to marry, she says: “I felt I’d been putting it off long enough.” The husband she has chosen is a dull, unexciting academic. She refers to him by his surname, Tesman, is sorry she married him, and has no attraction to him. Tesman is played lightly and innocently by Peter Gaynor, and the audience feels an affinity for him right away. Yet the audience also feels deep sympathy for Gabler, as she suffocates under social restriction and the burden of her own difficult psychology. Like Tesman, the other characters in the play never seem as alive or as real as Gabler. Instead, they have found their groove in the world and are happy enough to plough along. The most interesting of these are Gabler’s old flame, Ejlert Lovborg (Keith McErlean), who mirrors a passionate idealism in Gabler, and Judge Brack (Declan Conlon), who
Peter Gaynor and Catherine Walker bring life to their complex roles, with Walker, in particular, excelling in her role as the titular Hedda Gabler. Pictures: Ros Kavanagh
reflects back to Gabler her cruel and manipulating side. Both think they are akin to Gabler, but neither is. She toys with them all, while urgently looking for an identity and a valid role in life. She is like a child hoping to stumble upon the meaning of life through action. Lovborg’s helpmeet is Thea Elfsted (Kate Stanley Brennan) has left her magistrate husband to be with the great artistic genius. She has arduously assisted Lovborg on his latest work on history and is madly devoted to him; a trait dominant in her nature. Yet, Lovborg prefers the savage mystery of Gabler. In the meantime, the judge seeks to have a “tri-
As Ejlert Lovborg, Keith McErlean also creates a memorable, fleshed-out character
angular arrangement” in the Tesman household, much to Gabler’s horror. The Abbey Theatre and Mark O’Rowe have done justice to the Norwegian playwright in this new version of Hedda Gabler, and the two-and-a-half hours fly by. Yet Ibsen created Hedda Gabler, and therefore deserves most
adulation for summoning up something so psychologically primal, wounded and lost in the main character that it is enough to feed future imaginations for centuries to come. Hedda Gabler runs until May 16 in the Abbey Theatre. Tickets cost from €13 to €45 and are available from the box office at www.abbeytheatre.ie.
7 May 2015 GAZETTE 23
GAZETTE
MUSIC BLUR: THE MAGIC WHIP
From idle jams to their tasty first album in 12 years COLM MURRAY
On their way to global success, Mumford and Sons have come a long way, with their new album, Wilder Mind, showing the musical journey the band has also embarked on
MUMFORD AND SONS: WILDER MIND
Collaborating creates a robust new album COLM MURRAY
BACK in the autumn of 2009, Mumford and Sons were playing to maybe a couple of dozen customers of Tower Records in Wicklow St. We l l , m ay b e j u s t browsers, as it was lunchtime on a wet Tuesday and most of the punters present were either looking for shelter or whiling away the minutes until they returned to their workplaces. The band had just embarked on the promotional duties and five years non-stop work for their debut album, Sigh No More, that would send them global (and, until recently, a place on the Sunday Times rich list). Fast forward to 2015, and the waistcoats, banjos and braces have been ditched for full drum kits
and fenders on Wilder Mind (Island/Universal). As Marcus Mumford himself states: “We fell back in love with drums.” Right from the opening bars of Tompkins Square Park, it’s apparent that those early sessions in New York and London witnessed a change in the band’s approach not just to writing and recording, but to texture and dynamics, too. There is a minimalist yet panoramic feel to the new album, taking up from where Kings of Leon left off after taking a wrong turn after Only By The Night. Current single, Believe, is a big room stadium anthem with elements of The Edge’s chiming keyboard sounds, which were previously borrowed by their contemporaries, Coldplay.
Producer James Ford (Arctic Monkeys, Florence + The Machine, Klaxons) is a key component here, earning his fee with the updated sound but also positioning them for the next stage alongside supposed contemporaries. There are a clutch of new songs – Only Love, Believe, Ditmus, The Wolf, Wilder Mind, Just Smoke – that will soar in a live setting, the latter, still encapsulating the sound of the past five years with a more robust and mature dynamic. In another development, the new album is the band’s most collaborative to date, with all four musicians putting their shoulders to the wheel, and much of the writing taking place in the studio. Moreover, in stark contrast to Babel, none of
the new songs have been road-tested live: fans will come to them fresh. Those live settings will come in various guises over the summer. Gentlemen of the Road is their travelling festival, borne out of a desire to play non conventional or places less travelled. Since 2012, they have visited the likes of Dungog (Australia), Portland, Maine; places with rich history (Bristol, Virginia) or ancient tradition (Lewes, UK); and gems waiting to be discovered (Dixon, Illinois). A visit to Galway h a p p e n e d i n 2 013 , with further visits to these shores hopefully being announced in the future. Key tracks: Believe, Tomkins Square Park, Only Love. Release date: May 1.
DA MO N A l b a r n recently spoke on Irish radio about the origins of the first Blur album in 16 years (The Magic Whip , Parlophone/ Warners) with the completed line up. While touring Asia in the spring of 2013, a music festival – Tokyo Rock – was abruptly called off due to disorganised management. With a five-day break in their schedule and no dates to attend to, they took shelter in a tiny recording studio in Hong Kong, jamming with no goal in mind. The 15 songs they drafted up were set aside once they got back on tour. Almost a year later, Graham Coxon revisited the tracks and, after roping in Blur’s early producer Stephen Street, presented the material to the band.
Last year, they set about editing and cobbling together the ideas that were born from these sessions. This was in contrast to social media updates previously distributed a year before by on/off producer William Orbit that relations within the band were less than cordial. In an era that is coming to be defined by surprise releases, maybe the most surprising of all –apart from Bowie’s – is Blur’s latest; surprising because in contrast to, say, The Stone Roses, it’s always felt (no matter how much they might have denied it) that there was always creative ground still to be covered. This was proven by the superb Under The Westway single from 2012, which was their anthem of that summer tour. The gigs of that time,
Blur fans won’t need 99 reasons to pick up The Magic Whip (right) – their new album, inspired by songs they whipped together in Hong Kong. Picture: Linda Brownlee
including an appearance at Oxegen 2011, could only have been supported by nostalgia for a brief period. No more looking back, then, as this is an album bulging with as many ideas and as much energy as any of Blur’s, or – perhaps more importantly – any of their now contemporaries. Key tracks include My Terracotta Heart, which deals with Albarn’s and Cox’s oftentimes difficult relationship; the single, Lonesome Street, which is undeniably Blur; and New World Towers, echoing the themes of paranoia to the dubby Ghost Ship – with these, there’s plenty to keep the listener engaged. Key tracks: Lonesome Street, My Terracotta Heart, Mirrorball. Release date: April 27.
Gazette
24 Gazette 7 May 2015
OUT&ABOUT
HEALTH
Find your way in to health TRYING to lose weight and be healthy can be a struggle for most. Finding the correct method is just as hard but one weight-management clinic is offering a tailor-made option to clients. Your Way In, located in Blackrock, was set up after Marie Healy had spent years working with people who struggled with health and weight issues that could be remedied through alternative, nutritious food options. Healy worked at Conefrey’s Pharmacy in Pearse Street before becoming personal assistant to Dr Eva Orsmond, and then manager of five weight-management Orsmond clinics. There she gained experience in weight management, which helped her to discover that the most successful way of dealing with being over-weight, obesity and related issues is through a healthy, natural food diet. Healy said: “I believe our easyto-follow, no-gimmicks approach to healthy eating that involves only natural, real food is the most successful route and our results speak for themselves.”
Your Way In recognises the unique needs of each individual, and offers a professional weight loss programme in a relaxed and friendly environment. The small and personal team offer a choice of nutritional diet programmes, and one-to one-private consultations or small group sessions. The clinic’s healthy eating programmes are tailor made and experienced nutritionists can design a plan suitable to specific dietary needs, such as gluten free, dairy free and vegan diets. Student Lynsey, lost a stone in weight and, said she felt happy in her own skin again. She said: “The team were there for support every week… I never dreaded coming in to hop on the scales...each week we worked on small tweaks that were manageable, and not overwhelming.” Your Way In believes healthy eating and physical activity go hand in hand, and offers weekly fitness classes, including zumba and pilates, in the fitness studio. For more details on Your Way In see: www.yourwayin.ie
Running without a finish line AN EVENT like no other! On Sunday, May 3, more than 73,000 athletes across 35 locations worldwide took part in the Wings For Life World Run, which had no traditional finish line. In this race, participants keep running until they are passed by “the Catcher Car”, which takes off 30 minutes after the start. All of the entry fee went towards Wings For Life – a foundation that funds research into finding a cure for spinal cord injury.
The Wings For Life run was all about running for those who can’t, and was accessible to, and achievable by, people of all levels of fitness. The Irish race began at Dun Laoghaire. The course was picturesque and the sun was shining down on more than 2,000 participants. The winner of the women’s category was Orna Dilworth who ran 39.2km. The overall winner was David Sheehy (pictured) who ran 52.1km. Sheehy completed the 2013 Dublin Marathon
in 2hrs 39mins, and in 2014 took part in The Race – a 250km endurance event in Donegal. Now, he has the opportunity to race wherever he likes in the next Wings For Life World Run – a prize beyond price! Make 2016 your year to take part in this truly global event.
Staying healthy is crucial for pregnant women, who have a number of exercise routines to support their bodies
pregnancy: make sure the workout suits
Taking a weight off with exercise Matthieu jalet
IT is good to stay active and relatively fit during pregnancy as it helps towards having an easier birth and a healthy baby. Some woman may not take part physical activity if they have been misinformed about how light to moderate their training regime should be. Regular exercise during pregnancy can improve posture and decrease some common discomforts such as backache. If you were not fit before you were pregnant, don’t give up! Begin slowly and build gradually as you become stronger. During the first trimester (0 to 13 weeks), it is best to keep your exercise sessions no longer than 45 minutes, unless they
are part of a class. Always listen to your body when exercising, and slow down or stop if you feel tired or unwell. If you are just starting, begin with a moderately brisk pace, three days a week. Try for a combination of cardio (aerobic), strength and flexibility exercises, and avoid bouncing. As part of strength training modify some exercises; instead of squatting with a barbell try using an assisted ball squat, and most importantly make sure its comfortable for you. During the second trimester (14 to 26 weeks) avoid any overhead exercises as they can put pressure on the lower back and increase the heart rate. Try to vary your routine, so that you use
different muscle groups. For example, at one session, exercise your arms and shoulders, and at another, focus on your legs, hips and bottom muscles. Swimming is an ideal and safe form of exercise in pregnancy. It exercises your arms and legs, and works your heart and lungs. The bigger your bump gets, the more you will enjoy feeling weightless in the water. Yoga and pilates also help to maintain muscle tone and flexibility, and improve your posture, which is a good all over body balance, without putting too much strain on the joints. In the third trimester (27 to 40 weeks) exercise may become too difficult and too uncomfortable. If you are on bed rest, you
will probably need to stop exercising. But otherwise, you may just need to make more adjustments to your workouts. You should not lie flat on your back from the second trimester on. At this stage you may need more recovery time between workouts and you can also incorporate birth preparation exercises into your routine. “Keeping up with training is key to feeling great throughout your pregnancy,” said Siobhan Byrne, trainer and owner of BodyByrne Fitness, which launches a pregnancy training app next month that aims to take you through each trimester.Visit http://www. bodybyrne.ie/bodybyrnefitness-the-team/ for more information.
7 May 2015 gazette 25
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Gazette
28 Gazette 7 May 2015
SPORT Fear a key factor for Murphy
FastSport
swimming: ucd to fore at irish open long course championships
dublin duo reach belgian grand final:
TEMPLEOGUE’S Shane O’Donoghue and Shankill man Kyle Good are looking forward to playing in the Belgian Audi Hockey League’s final next week with their Antwerp-based club Dragons. The pair were both part of the side that won their twolegged battle with KHC Leuven – who topped the regular season standings – in the semi-finals 5-1 on aggregate having won the first tie last Friday 3-1 before closing out the victory 2-0 on Sunday in the reverse fixture. The Irish internationals moved to Belgium last summer to join Dragons and have impressed during their time with the club. They helped the side reach the quarter-finals of the Euro Hockey League at Easter with Good netting a couple of times in ousting the reigning champions Harvestehuder THC from Germany.
sport@dublingazette.com
DUBLIN swimmers were on top form for the Irish Open Swimming Championships at the National Aquatic Centre last weekend, with a number grabbing their last chance to
post a qualifying time for international competitions taking place this summer. UCD Swimming Club had a particularly successful event, with Alex Murphy ducking just under the qualifying time
Alex Murphy, centre, with his medal
for Russia’s World Swimming Championship this summer in the 50m breast stroke. His day one time topped the qualifying standard by just two hundredths of a second. A delighted Murphy admitted to approaching the race feeling uncertain, having missed out on the time in the semi-final, but embraced his coaching philosophy of “feel the fear and do it anyway” to edge in by a finger tip. Shauna O’Brien - also of UCD - was one of the stars of the weekend, taking home the 100m butterfly gold in a time of 1.00.56, just a fraction slower than her own Irish senior record set in the semi final. O’Brien had already qualified to compete at the World Univer-
Aer Lingus’s 400m medley relay silver medal winning team. Picture: Stephen McCarthy
sity Games taking place in Gwangju, South Korea in early July. Andrew Meegan, of Aer Lingus, took home his first national title, with the Irish record holder touching out Athlone’s Brendan Gibbons by 0.12 of a second to take the 800m freestyle final. Aer Lingus team mate Ben Griffins claimed third in the 200m individual medley, while the NAC’s own Brian O’Sullivan grabbed second in the 50m backstroke final. Tallaght’s Brendan Hyland came close to his own Irish record, taking home the men’s 100m butterfly title ahead of a strong American field, while Hyland’s 200m win in the same stroke was also a highlight of day one
and capped an impressive individual performance. Shani Stallard, 400m individual medley, and David Prendergast, 50m backstroke, also placed in their events, with both edged out by the championships’ American contingent, but taking home the respective Irish titles. A significant American visiting crew pushed the locals to the edge over the course of the championships, dominating day two of the three-day event in particular with a clean sweep of the eight races. The local contingent will be more than happy with the impressive array of qualification marks posted, however. The results bring the total number of Irish swimmers and divers
reaching qualifying standards for this summer’s world-level events to 28. Off the back of these races, a group will head off to events including the World Championships, World University Games, European Games, European Youth Olympics and World Junior Championships throughout the summer. Final selection for events in South Korea, Georgia, Russia and Singapore will be made based on these qualifying times at a later date. Swim Ireland national performance director Peter Banks is also looking further forward, highlighting the strength of the team building towards the Olympics in Brazil in 2016.
Bracewell takes reins ahead of England tie in Malahide sport@dublingazette.com
Ireland’s Alex Cusack, John Mooney, Max Sorensen and Kevin O’Brien promoting Friday’s tie
JOHN Bracewell was confirmed as the new Irish cricket coach in time to see Ireland take on England this Friday in Malahide in the marquee one-day international fixture. The 57-year-old has a track record of success with both New Zealand and in English domestic cricket and is seen as the ideal man to deliver the target of test cricket for Ireland by 2019. Cricket Ireland performance director Richard Holdsworth
commented on the appointment. “We are delighted to welcome John to the Irish cricket family, to take the team through new challenges towards our vision of Test cricket. “He has substantial international experience, not only playing in 41 tests and 53 ODIs, but also as New Zealand coach in 41 Tests and 106 ODIs over five years. “During his tenure the Black Caps qualified for three semi-finals in ICC global events, while he also won six trophies with Gloucestershire. The interview
panel was impressed by John’s passion, commitment and knowledge, but more importantly his international experience both as a player and coach.” Speaking about his appointment, Bracewell added: “I am delighted to accept the position as Cricket Ireland’s head coach. There is nothing I enjoy more than fighting for a cause and, in cricket terms, there is none better than obtaining test status. “A l r e a d y I r e l a n d h ave achieved tremendous international results given its financial resources and has gained respect
at international tournaments, to the point where they are no longer regarded as a banana skin match but true qualifying contenders.” Ireland assistant coach and performance analyst Peter Johnston will lead the Ireland coaching team for the Royal London One-Day International against England with Bracewell at the game in an observer capacity. His first match as head coach will be the home Inter Continental Cup game against the UAE starting on June 2, subject to receiving a work permit.
7 May 2015 Gazette 29
Gazette
Prestige stage set for tenth birthday With the An Post Ras coming to Skerries for its thrilling finale for a 10th successive year, James Hendicott spoke to organiser Michael O’Donoghue about Irish cycling’s big event SUNDAY, May 24 will see Skerries host the final stage of the An Post Ras for an unprecedented 10th consecutive year, on the event’s 63rd edition. Ireland’s most significant international cycling race takes place over eight stages, setting off from Dunboyne, Co Meath, on Sunday, May 17. It subsequently takes in 14 counties, with stops including Carlow, Tipperary, Ballina and Drogheda along the route. Organiser Michael O’Donoghue is the sportsman on the race committee, but sees the event in a far wider context than simply as a cycling event, focusing instead on the street party that the Ras brings to the town. “I’m one of very few people on the committee who’s into cycling”, O’Donoghue explains.
“The focus is very much on being part of the Skerries social calendar, so most of the committee are local community organisers. “It’s built around the cycling, but we’ll be focusing on the atmosphere, not the race. It’s become Skerries’ largest street festival.” The theme of the festival for 2015 will be Fitness and Fun for All, with static bikes, fitness testing and healthy eating stalls added to the festival’s annual attractions. “There are over 50 community groups involved, and we try to lay on a lot of attractions. “This year those will include a farmers’ market, street entertainers, bouncy castles, magic performers and craft stalls. “We’ll be spending more on it than we ever
have before, with loads of community involvement. There will be a lot to do.” That expansive finalstage party has drawn between 3,000 and 4,000 spectators to the sprint finish over the past few years. However, O’Donoghue hopes the extra planning efforts for the 10th anniversary may lead to a still greater turn out this year. “We hope it will be the best-attended final stage yet”, O’Donoghue says. “Fingal County Council has been great in their funding and support. There’s strong community support. “The route really shows off Skerries. It’s a beautiful route taking in the castle, the town centre and the coast. “It’s fantastic for Skerries to be able to bring an influx of international visitors. The teams come
Rozanna Purcell pictured with, from left, Irish riders Damien Shaw, David McCann, former Ras winner, Sean McKenna and Eoin Morton at the launch of the An Post Ras
complete with doctors, mechanics and managers, so it’s a significant tourism boost for the town.” Among cycling fanatics, the Ras has developed a reputation as a proving ground for world class athletes, with previous winners including three-time world
event is already clear, riders want to take the cheers of the crowd. It’s the best attended stage and the one people remember.” Major teams competing this year include the Team Novo Nordisk development squad, who will feature only type 1 diabetic riders, who are aiming
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‘Skerries is the prestige, homecoming stage so the riders want to be the one to take the crowd’s cheers’
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time trial champion and Olympic silver medallist Tony Martin, and winner of this year’s notorious Paris-Roubaix race John Degenkolb, both of Germany. The final stage is spectator friendly, looping three times through the Black Hills and back into the city to enable plenty of access to all the action for spectators. The third loop has been added this year as a special spectator-friendly 10th anniversary extra. The racers are expected to arrive in Skerries shortly after 2pm, with the winner crowned at a trophy presentation at 4pm. Things should be competitive. The final “prestige” stage is “generally the one people want to win”, O’Donogue says. “It’s the homecoming stage, so even if the winner of the
to prove that sportsmen can compete alongside controlled type 1 diabetes. The Canadian and New Zealand national teams will attend, while the previously successful Azerbaijan Synergy Baku Team will return to chase further stage wins. “The Ras coming to the same town for a 10th consecutive year is unprecedented. Obviously, it’s a huge boost for the local area.” O’Donoghue concludes. “We’re hoping it will be huge.” This year’s full route of 1,200kms omits many of the previous year’s tougher climbs, featuring no category one and just two category two ascents. This is expected to open up the 2015 circuit to attacks over windy routes providing little shelter, so hopes for a thrilling festival finish are high.
FastSport
Werahiko back on board as Salmo aim to bounce back DE LA Salle Palmerston has appointed Phil Werahiko as their new director of rugby for the 2015/16 season as they look to put plans in place to bounce back up to all-Ireland league status. Werahiko previously played and worked as head coach for DLSP where he guided them into top tier of the AIL. After his successful period at the Kirwan Park club, his career then took him to further success’s at Clontarf and English Division one side Rotherham, before returning to Dublin to coach Old Belvedere, where he won the AIL title in 2011. In recent years, he has taken up a role at Belvedere College where he oversees all aspects of rugby and this season guided their senior cup team to reach the Leinster schools final. Speaking about the new appointment, a club statement said: “We are genuinely delighted that someone with Phil’s vast experience has given such a vote of confidence to our club by accepting this role and we are confident that his appointment sends out a clear message about our intentions for the 2015-16 season. “Phil is currently conducting a review of our rugby structures and resources.” It comes in the wake of DLSP dropping out of the national league in dramatic fashion as they fell 22-10 to Dundalk in a playoff game after they finished the Division 2B season in 14th place overall. It followed a last season rally that almost saw them escape the playoff places with a 17-6 win over Wanderers, a 17-all draw with Midleton before closing out the campaign with a 41-0 home win against Ards. But it was enough to reel in Boyne, who finished three points clear of them in the rankings, in front of big crowds and the club are hopeful they can replicate that in the coming seasons as they bid to bounce back. “We would also like to thank all of our club members who got out in such large and vocal numbers to support our team when really needed. It was genuinely appreciated by the whole squad. “We face many difficult challenges but we would like to use this opportunity to reassure the members that the club is absolutely committed to regaining AIL status.”
Gazette
30 BLANCH gazette 7 May 2015
SPORT
fastSport
Phoenix Park named as part of marathon route THE SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon will pass through the Phoenix Park once again following the announcement earlier this week by race director Jim Aughney. More than19,000 people took part in the SSE Airtricity Dublin Race Series last year, and over 14,600 runners, joggers and walkers entered the SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon. The 2015 marathon route will follow the same course as the previous marathon in 2014, when changes had to be made due to the Luas works. The route will start on Fitzwilliam Square and end at Merrion Square as in recent years, but it will run along St Stephen’s Green towards Meath Street, Lord Edward Street and Parliament Street, taking in City Hall and Dublin Castle – two well-known Dublin landmarks – before entering the quays and moving towards the Phoenix Park. Last year’s race finish from Mount Street Lower towards Merrion Square proved a success with the runners and spectators so it remains the same for 2015. Kenyan Eluid Too was a surprise winner last year with a time of 2.14.47 while women’s defending champion Maria McCambridge lost out by four seconds to Esther Wanjiru.
soccer: porterstown club on the march in major league
Action from last Monday’s battle bewteen Tolka Rovers and Castleknock Celtic
Celtic continue U-14 title push sport@dublingazette.com
CASTLEKNOCK Celtic continued their push for the top division Under14 Major League title in the Dublin and District Schoolboys League on bank holiday Monday, clinically putting away lowly Tolka Rovers in Johnstown Park. An Owen Akpiama hat-trick topped off a dominant display for Celtic, who maintain their table-topping status having won 13 of their 18 games this season. They top St Malachy’s on goal difference. Celtic have a game in hand
on their title rivals, and will have high hopes of securing a clear advantage going into the season’s final few games. The emphatic 6-0 win came despite a laid back approach to the second half that saw Tolka Rovers battering at the Celtic door at stages, before Akpiama added his goals to strikes by Vilius Labutus and Ciaran McGarry. Andy Cunningham’s superb goalkeeping and a top midfield performance from Brian Dalton also played into the Porterstown club’s hands. The club are looking similarly commanding
in the U-15 age category, having clocked up 29 points from a possible 36 so far this season. That still leaves Celtic four points adrift of table-topping St Kevin’s Boys but, with three games in hand, Celtic will be confident of overturning the difference.
Rivalry A 1-1 draw for Celtic away at local rivals Finglas Celtic – also promotion contenders – did see St Kevin’s open up a gap over Celtic at the top of the DDSL 15A league, but with six games remaining,
Castleknock have no cause to be overly concerned. Conversely, Celtic are struggling at U-16 level. Stuck to the bottom of the DDSL U-16 Major League, the club face vital fixtures against mid-table sides Templeogue United and St John Bosco, from which they’ll need to take points to maintain realistic ambitions of avoiding relegation. The U-17s are having a great season, despite losing against a formidable Woodlawn Sportslink outfit in the Mary Farrell Cup; 4-0 flattered a Woodlawn side
who needed until the final 15 minutes to force the breakthrough. The result put an end to a 13 match unbeaten run for Castleknock U-17, but – up against the premier league favourites – is no humiliation and unlikely to hamper the second division side’s NDSL league promotion push. The form side currently trail Ashbourne on goal difference. With the U-14, U-15 and U-17 sides performing in such a dominant manner and eying promotions or league titles, Castleknock Celtic appear in rude health.
7 May 2015 BLANCH gazette 31
Gazette
final frustration
dublinGAA
Blakestown club undone by Crumlin in Parnell st Peregrine’s Under-14 hurlers reach the final of the Division 5 Feile last weekend after they made it through a tough group at Hartstown Park on Saturday. They were unable, however, to get the best of Crumlin in the decider on Sunday in Parnell Park as the Dublin 12 side scored six unanaswered points to run out 1-6 to 1-0 winners after an initial exchange of goals
hurling: saints storm to division 3 success Castleknock in group phase action against Na Fianna. Picture: Shay Hogan
Rollercoaster of emotions for Castleknock’s U-14s
St Brigid’s celebrate their Feile final victory over Cuala
Four-star Brigid’s bring home Feile feile division 3 final St Brigid’s Cuala sport@dublingazette.com
4-4 1-1
FIRST half goals from Mark Coyne, Daniel Hawkshaw and Matt Grogan propelled St Brigid’s to the Dublin hurling Feile title last Sunday at Parnell Park as they proved too strong for Cuala. They lasted the pace superbly, racing home after a gruelling two days having negotiated Saturday’s group phases on home turf before defeating Naomh Mearnog 4-10 to 1-6 in the semi-finals.
And they continued those high scoring ways in the final, getting off to a flying start when Coyne’s long free dipped in dangerously and found the net just three minutes in. Cuala replied quickly via Cal Doran, who thrashed home a rebound after Tighernan Shaffrey’s shot was initially well saved by Aoghan Hourican. But Brigid’s were back in the ascendancy with their second goal in the 13th minute with Hawkshaw providing a delightful finishing, lifting the sliotar head high with his first touch before applying
a tennis-style backhand volley to the net. Grogan then continued the goal rush just before half-time as feverish harrying from Liam Doherty and Padraig McGlynn created the chance by turning over ball less than 20m from the Cuala goal. It was eventually worked over to the waiting Grogan on the right post, who smashed home, with plenty of power. With Doherty and McGlynn weighing in with a couple of points, too, it helped the Russell Park side build a 3-3 to 1-1 halftime lead. The second half saw
Saturday’s rain return with a huge deluge making free-flowing play difficult to come by. Indeed, it was impressive that the turf was in as good as condition as it was given the volume of rain with the Division 2,4 and 6 finals at Blakestown all cancelled. Cuala had slightly the better of proceedings but could not land their scores while Brigid’s nailed their chances with Ruairi O’Neill getting their fourth goal, pouncing after an initial shot hit the bar to add an extra gloss on a memorable weekend.
CASTLEKNOCK’S Under-14 hurlers experienced the rollercoaster that is Feile Na nGael last weekend, a competition which delivered elation, disappointment and suspense in equal measure. The Somerton-based club entered teams into Divisions 1 and 6 of the competition with the top tier of the annual festival of hurling hosted at Castleknock’s home. Castleknock welcomed four top Dublin clubs to Somerton for the prestigious competition. Whitehall Colmcille, Clontarf, Na Fianna and St Vincent’s all featured. Among those who impressed for Castleknock were Elliot O’Neill, Eoin Sawyer, Cian Boyle and Davey Bohan as the home team eased past Na Fianna and Clontarf. The encounter with Whitehall was a tougher task.. Whitehall’s Ciaran McManus and free taker Sean Foran were on form but the host team were too strong and secured a semi -final place on maximum points. The semi-final match up with St Vincent’s was a close contest with the Marino-based club leading for most of the match. Ronan McCann and Cian Boyle notched up early scores for the home team with Davey Bohan marshalling the defence. Adam O’Connor and Conor Sheridan were influential for St. Vincent’s but in closing minutes Castleknock looked the stronger side with Stephen Callinan snatching a late point to deliver a final spot on a 0-6 to 0-5 scoreline. Having already secured the ladies Feile football title in recent weeks the west Dublin club now had its eye on a unique double. Castleknock were paired up with Ballyboden in the final. The southside team were firing on all cylinders from the start. Boden’s Adam Kelleher opened the scoring with an early point and the west Dublin club were given little time to settle when a goal soon followed. Castleknock’s Conor Chalke was kept busy dealing with the threat from Boden’s Conor Lowe and Pearse Christie. Davey Bohan won some important possession and Ronan McCann got his name on the score sheet but constant pressure from Ballyboden was to take its toll. Further scores from Boden gave a final score line of Ballyboden 2-7 Castleknock 0-1. The Feile rollercoaster has not run out of track, though. Castleknock’s hopes of glory now lay with the Division 6 side whose final fell victim to an unplayable pitch. The group stages of the competition went smoothly for Castleknock. Clontarf and St Patrick’s were kept scoreless and a good win over Lucan secured a semi- final spot. Played in appalling conditions, the semi- final against Na Fianna was exciting from the start with very little between the teams. Trailing by two points with less than five minutes to go, Castleknock’s Cian McFadden dipped a free just beneath the bar to score a goal and deliver a final place and the hopes of a Feile double alive. The Division 6 final will now be played at Somerton on Saturday, May 9.
GazetteSPORT all of your blanch sports coverage from page 28-31
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The St Mochta’s side prior to the victory over Verona to win the Leinster Senior League Sunday Senior 1 title
Super Saints promotion Mochta’s landed the LSL Sunday Senior 1 title with four games to spare with a stunning 5-2 win over Verona, adding to a memorable season stephen findlater
sport@dublingazette.com
WHAT looked a certainty for so long became reality this week as St Mochta’s beat local rivals Verona 5-2 midweek to build an unassailable lead at the top of the LSL Sunday Senior 1. It ensured they enter top tier football in the LSL for the very first time as comprehensive league champions, getting over the line with four games remaining and the minimum of fuss. While the side dominated the division, manager Brian McCarthy was still surprised by the distance between his side and the chasing pack, especially as they were only promoted to this division 12 months ago.
“We didn’t expect to do it in this manner to be fair,” he told GazetteSport. “Going up a league, you don’t know what you are up against. “I hadn’t seen much Senior 1 football before last year. I knew we had a good, strong side but the lads stepped up. To lose only one game in the league out of 22, it’s great going.” David Somers fired a hat trick in the win over Verona as they raced into an early lead. He broke the deadlock in the 12th minute and added his second two minutes later from Lee Dixon’s assist. The tie was all but done and dusted when his brother Karl Somers netted the third and John Reilly made it 4-0 at half-time, killing off the tie in breathtaking fashion to the delight of the
home crowd, one augmented due to its derby nature. “There was a huge crowd at the match and we have great support. For the lads, it would have been good to win against their local rivals but, for me, it was more to just get over the line.” While the hat-trick brought David Somers’ goal tally to 27 for the season, McCarthy said there were many heroes in his line-up. “Right the way through the team, they have been exceptional. Warren Fee, the goalkeeper, has been immense; Brian Fitzpatrick came in from Tolka Rovers and has been excellent. Craig Sheridan, Luke Harrison and so on. “You look at the likes of David and Karl [Somers] – who has been called into the intermediate
squad, which is a long time since anyone from the club has done that. The level of performance they all bring has been exceptional.” And McCarthy said that he already had ambitions of making a splash in the Sunday Senior even though there is still plenty of football to be played this term. “We’ve a very good backbone and will hopefully bring in a few players. It is something that we have looked at already. But I said to the lads that even though no one can catch us, we want to persevere. To only get beaten once in the season, it would be huge. We want to kick on and we won’t be taking the eye off the ball. The Senior Cup is the weekend of May 31 so we still have a month left at least until we relax.”