Gazette BLANCH
Mar 30 - Apr 5, 2017
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A SIGNED COPY OF LIFE. LOVE. FLESH. BLOOD IMELDA MAY’S EAGERLY AWAITED NEW ALBUM AND TWO TICKETS TO SEE HER LIVE AT THE BORD GAIS ENERGY THEATRE
See PAGE 13 for details
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Teen thugs leave residents afraid to go out at night
ANTI-SOCIAL youths are terrorising Tyrrelstown residents – with some saying they are afraid to go out in the evening. Reports have emerged on social media that an elderly man had been attacked by the gang outside the Parkview Apartments and local gardai have informed residents that they are taking steps to solve the problem. One resident said: “They litter, destroy property, break into people’s houses and attack innocent passers-by.” Local gardai now say that they are going to increase patrols in the area to try to put a stop to the behaviour. Full Story on Page 2
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TYRRELSTOWN | ANTI-SOCIAL BEHAVIOUR SPARKS CALL FOR ACTION
‘It’s terrible we can’t feel safe taking the dog out for an evening walk’ MARK O’BRIEN THE anti-social behaviour of a gang of youths has left some Tyrrelstown residents afraid to go out in the evening. Gardai in Blanchardstown confirmed in a letter to residents that they are taking steps to combat the problem. Reports emerged recently on social media that an elderly man had been attacked by the gang outside the Parkview Apartments. The reports sparked a huge reaction, with
many residents calling for action against the gang. One resident wrote: “They litter, destroy property, break into people’s houses and attack innocent passers-by.” Another resident said that she could no longer take her dog out for a walk in the evening, commenting: “I don’t take the dog out in the evening, garden only. “I also don’t walk on the streets, just in the park. “It’s terrible that we can’t feel safe taking the dog out for an evening
stroll.” Gardai confirmed to the Gazette that the assault was not reported to them but in a letter recently sent to residents, they confirmed that there is an issue with anti-social behaviour in the area. The letter, signed by Inspector Tony Twomey, said: “An Garda Siochana Blanchardstown are aware of the concern amongst the Tyrrelstown Community of the negative impact the activities of a minority of youths are having on Public
Safety in the area. “Reaction on social media to recent incidents portrays a sense of growing frustration and anger which is understandable from a personal and community perspective.” The letter said that gardai would be working closely with Tyrrelstown Residents Association and Tyrrelstown Neighbourhood Watch. It also outlined a number of ways in which local gardai intend to rebuild public confidence. T hese include; the recently established Business Watch aimed at reducing anti-social behaviour around the Plaza, a project to engage with young offenders and additional high visibility patrols of the area, with a focus on com-
munity engagement and combating anti-social behaviour. The letter also encourages residents to report any incident to the gardai but also appealed to social media users to highlight what is good about the area. It read: “We need the help of each member of the community to achieve this objective. “We recognise the power of social media in influencing community perception and ask that you take time to highlight positive community spirited actions to assist in restoring public safety and confidence. “We also ask that you take the time to report all activity which you believe impacts negatively on public safety.”
FASTNews
Maxi Zoo will host pet nutrition workshops THE Maxi Zoo pet store in Blanchardstown will host a series of pet nutrition workshops in April. The events, which will be held every Saturday in April, will help local pet owners learn about pet nutrition and the simple things they can do to improve the health, behaviour and lifespan of their pets. “Nutrition is a hot topic right now. People are very conscious about the value of good nutrition in their own diet and are now beginning to apply that interest and thinking to the well-being of their pets,” said Alice Cross, Executive Director of Maxi Zoo Ireland. The events at each store will take place throughout the day and the store’s pet experts will be available to talk to pet-parents whatever time they decide to drop by The store’s pet experts will also educate customers how to read and understand the guidelines on pet food bags and how to satisfy themselves that what it says on the package is what they’ll find in the package.
Art exhibition attracts over 400 visitors OVER 400 visitors attended the recent Huntstown Community Centre Annual Art Exhibition. Groups such as Daughters of Charity Blakestown, Stepping Stones, Corduff Womens Group, Arising, Tolka River Project, HCYP, amongst the exhibitors. A public vote as held to judge the best artwork and this year’s winner was Stacey Glenn with her drawing entitled “All your dreams are made of Strawberry Lemonade”. We currently have two art groups operating in the centre, both as a direct spin off from the Education Training Board of Dublin and Dun Laoghaire. Commenting on the success of the event, a spokesperson for Huntstown Community Centre said: “We believe that we are stimulating public interest in the arts and also promoting people to become engaged in the arts be it from exhibiting, joining classes or to enjoying painting for pleasure. “It also encourages people to be more active in their community and enjoy time in their local community centre bringing their family and friend to enjoy their work.”
Joint Policing Committee to hold a public meeting
Seal of approval
This fantastic shot by Paul O’Rourke, is just one of the amazing pictures that Naas Camera Club members took on a recent trip to The Phoenix Park and Dublin Zoo. Picture: PAUL O’ROURKE
THE Fingal Joint Policing Committee will hold a public meeting on Wednesday, April 5 in the Crowne Plaza Hotel. The meeting allows residents of the area to engage with the Garda superintendents and inspectors of the area. There will be a number of speakers at the event, including a speaker on ethnic policing. The event is free and residents are encouraged to attend and raise any issues that they may have with policing in their area. The meeting begins at 7.30pm and is expected to finish at 9pm.
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DUBLIN LIFE | DOCTORS IN THE HOUSE PUT DUBLIN PAIR ON THE RIGHT ROAD TO HEALTHY LIVING
Meet the mum and daughter TV3 docs labelled ‘Ireland’s sickest family’
MEET the mother and daughter who say airing their bad habits on TV3’s Doctor in the House has given them a new lease of life. Geraldine Haskin, 54, and her daughter Amanda, 31, who live in Clondalkin, were labelled “one of the sickest” families the medics had ever met on last night’s show.
Myles O’Donoghue Properties – experts in Dublin property MYLES O’Donoghue Properties (MOD Properties) is a professional services firm that specialises in residential and commercial property services. Myles O’Donoghue is founder and a Director of Myles O’Donoghue Properties. Myles started his career in the Irish property market over 20 years ago as a Sales & Letting negotiator for a leading estate agent in Foxrock, Daphne L. Kaye & Associates. In 2003, Myles joined another leading estate agency, Lisney, and was recruited to their Head Office in St Stephen’s Green as a senior sales negotiator where he sold property throughout Dublin. Over two decades, Myles has gathered a wealth
SYLVIA POWNALL Before signing up charity shop worker Amanda tipped the scales at 24st, consumed up to 7,000 calories a day and smoked up to 30 cigarettes daily. Mum Geraldine is also obese and has high blood pressure along with a family
history of heart and stroke problems. Amanda admitted to binge eating and had struggled with depression. She sought help from Pieta House after social media bullying left her feeling suicidal. She told The Gazette: “My mother decided to sign us both up. At first I was
scared but then I said yeah because I felt it might help me out. I’m nervous about how the public will react because some people are not very understanding about obesity. But I’m not nervous about the way it was shown. I wanted it to be wartsand-all, to be real and show my struggle.” The pair got their first visit from the doctors in November and after a medical got started on an eight-week programme prescribed by the experts. Both were found to have fatty livers and Amanda was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Amanda said: “I used to hide my feelings and binge on food but now I’m talking to a therapist. “I’m going to exercise classes, I’ve joined Slimming World and I’ve picked a date to give up smoking for good. “Mam’s lost a lot of weight and goes walking with the dogs. It’s been tough and we have good and bad days, but the change wouldn’t have happened without Doctor in the House.”
COMMERCIAL FEATURE
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‘Over two decades Myles has gathered a wealth of knowledge and an immense understanding of the Irish property market.’ ---------------------------------------------------------
of knowledge and an immense understanding of the Irish property market. He founded his own firm Myles O’Donoghue Properties with a vision of establishing a local estate agency in West Dublin that delivers a level of service of the highest quality at a competitive fee structure. Myles is an expert in residential agency and has been involved in a number of high profile transactions. He also advises clients in the acquisition of residential purchases whether as a home or an investment.
Myles has a BA in Business Management and a BSc in Property Studies from Dublin Institute of Technology. He is also an associate member of the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland. Having outgrown their previous office in Laurel Lodge, they have relocated to their new office at Roselawn Shopping Centre. Their experienced and highly-motivated team will offer an attentive property service that combines our deep knowledge with a professional approach result-
Avril Hollingsworth Office Manager, Myles O’Donoghue and Jennifer O’Donoghue and (below) their new office in Roselawn Shopping Centre
ing in satisfied customer results. Our Services Include:
• Residential Sales • Property Letting & Management • Asset Management • Commercial Sales & Lettings • Valuation & Professional Services
MYLES O’DONOGHUE PROPERTIES Unit M Roselawn Shopping Centre Roselawn Rd Dublin 15 Phone: 01 8030648 www.modproperties.ie
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Campaign aims to get Ireland growing
AWARD winning garden designer Diarmuid Gavin and TV presenter and mother of three Anna Daly pictured with little helpers Blair Doyle (6) and Bebhinn Doyle (4) at the launch of GroMor 2017, a nationwide campaign in association with Bord Bia to give clear and useful advice on how to best grow plants, herbs, flowers, fruits, vegetables and to highlight the health benefits of gardening. See www.gromor.ie for tips and advice on getting started. A series of 50 free gardening demonstrations will take place in throughout the nation in GroMor Garden Centres from April to September offering a whole variety of themes. Picture: Robbie Reynolds
Social quiz night for all Democrats
AT 7.30 pm on March 30 in Myo’s, Castleknock, Dublin West Social Democrats will host a table quiz to which the entire community is invited. Quizmaster Gerri O’Neill from Blanchardstown promises questions will be suitable for all levels, and there will be fabulous prizes on offer in a range of categories. Funds raised by the quiz will go towards the Dublin West SocDems local campaign fund. As well as raising funds, the quiz will present a great opportunity for everyone to meet the Social Democrats’ activists and future candidates.
Welcoming migrants with the spoken word
MARK O’BRIEN
VOLUNTEERS in Tyrrelstown are doing their bit to help new migrants settle in their new home by teaching them conversational English. Failte Isteach is a volunteerrun group that meets every Wednesday in Tyrrelstown Community Centre. Rafe Costigan of Failte Isteach Tyrrelstown told the Gazette that the group is: “A safe space to practice conversational English.” Failte Isteach is an initiative of the Third Age Foundation, an organisation that offers volunteer opportunities to older people who wish to keep active. There are currently 106 Failte Isteach groups around the
country, with the Tyrrelstown group running since 2011. The teaching is less formal than other English classes, with the aim being to teach people phrases and words that will help them with everyday tasks such as going to the doctor or asking for directions. Rafe said: “We’re not coming in to teach it (English) by the book. There are other places for that.” This informal approach has really helped migrants improve their English and the response has been overwhelmingly positive. Members are encouraged to go to the classes or at least three months but many stay on longer than that – with some
even going on to be tutors themselves. One student, Daddy from DR Congo said attending the classes has given him more confidence. He said: “I come to these classes to practice and learn English. This is a great chance for me to talk with others. I enjoy these classes. It gives me an opportunity to read, listen and speak English. I feel more confident.” Chiarastella, from Italy, also said that she had gained confidence from attending the classes. She said: “I started these conversational classes in October and since then I found myself improving a lot. “Before these classes I was very self-conscious because I used to over think before I
spoke. Now I feel far more confident and I am more fluent.” As well as giving people confidence and a social outlet, Failte Isteach also bring in guests, such as community gardai to make people aware of the services in their area. Rafe said: “The migrant community can be hard to reach sometimes by the services. “It’s not just the language barrier but people maybe aren’t aware of the services in their area or community support so it’s a great way of providing basic community information.” The Failte Isteach classes take place every Wednesday from 10am to 12pm in Tyrrelstown Community Centre and classes cost €2.
Members say the classes have given them more confidence
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Out and About
Contestants Thomas Reilly, Tom Gerrard and John Maye
Adrienne Hannon, Joanne Kierwan and Ileana Turian. Pictures: Dave Smyth : RSF PHOTOGRAPHY
Vanessa Murphy, Audrey O’Connor and Robyn Behan
Music and dance on an evening to remember C
Kate Furlong, Nicole Lamb and Robyn Robbie Kennedy
Poole
OOLMINE Musical Society were delighted to play two sell out nights last weekend in Draiocht when An Evening With Coolmine Musical Society came to life. The wonderful cast and crew thoroughly enjoyed themselves both on and off the stage. And there’s no rest for the Society as they are hosting a Lip Sync Battle next Friday, April 7, in the Roselawn Inn at 8pm so if you’d like to embrace your inner Beyonce or moonwalk like Micheal Jackson then all you’ve to do is email coolminems@gmail.com and all you need will be signed, sealed and delivered!
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30 March 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 7
Out and About
“Come to the Cabaret”
Nicole Lamb, Jennifer Martin, Gloria Burrowes, Yvonne Kennedy, Maire Caffery and Audrey Mahon
Nicole Lamb and Liam Egan
Are you a member of a camera club? Would you like to see your shots in print? Why not send your pictures to aconway@ dublingazette. com
Louise Hudson, Audrey O’Connor and Robyn Poole
Liam Egan
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DRAIOCHT ARTS CENTRE | DANCER HOPES TO BE AN INSPIRATION
Dancing all the way home MARK O’BRIEN A LOCAL dancer hopes to inspire a younger generation to take up dance when the show he is currently starring in comes to his hometown next month. Matthew Williamson plays the role of Duck in Peter and the Wolf, which comes to the Draiocht Arts Centre at the end of April. Matthew, who has been dancing since his teens, told the Gazette that he can’t wait to perform in Blanchardstown. He said: “I’m really looking forward to it, especially as a lot of my family and Matthew will play the role of Duck in Peter and the Wolf friends are coming along.”
This includes a number of his younger cousins and Matthew said that he hopes seeing him perform will inspire them to give dance a try. “I’d like them to start dance classes because it’s great for their confidence, even if they don’t peruse it as a career.” Matthew first began taking dance lessons in Blanchardstown and said that he has always wanted to perform. He said: “I’ve always wanted to be on stage but it took me a while to figure out what stage that would be.” Having tried various dance styles and entering hip-hop dancing competitions, Matthew has spent the past year breaking into theatre. He has since performed in a number of productions, including These Rooms at the Dublin Theatre Festival in September and October.
The Wolf and Peter is based on Russian composer Sergei Prokofiev’s classic Peter and the Wolf, which was originally written as an engaging way to introduce children to the instruments of the orchestra. CoisCeim Dance Theatre takes on the story is told through the eyes of the wolf. It is filled with dance and live music and features the characters Bird, Cat, Duck (played by Matthew), Boy, and of course the Wolf. The production has been on a very wellreceived nationwide run which will end with the Blanchardstown shows. The Wolf and Peter comes to Draiocht on Thursday, April 27 and Friday, April 28. T i c ke t s f r o m € 5 are available from the Draiocht Box Office on (01) 8852622 or online at www.draiocht.ie.
FASTNews
Launch of Cystic Fibrosis National Awareness Week. Picture: Shane O’Neill Photography
Launching Cystic Fibrosis awareness campaign PICTURED at the launch of Cystic Fibrosis Ireland’s 65 Roses Day appeal are Pearl Mowlds, group finance manager, Malone Group; Philip Watt, chief executive, Cystic Fibrosis Ireland; Keelin Shanley, RTE presenter and Cystic Fibrosis Ireland ambassador, and Dave Gannon, managing director, Malone Group. Malone Group, based in Blanchardstown, is sponsoring a three-week national radio advertising campaign, fronted by Keelin Shanley, to help heighten awareness of the campaign. Members of the public can lend their support by buying a purple rose from volunteers for €2, donating online at www.65rosesday.ie, or by completing a 65 Roses challenge. The fundraising appeal aims to raise €100,000 for cystic fibrosis services and takes place as part of Cystic Fibrosis National Awareness Week.
House prices remain on the rise in North Dublin HOUSE prices remain on the rise as demand continues to outstrip supply - with the price of the average three-bed semi in North Dublin now standing at €282,500. This represents a 5.6% over the last three months, according to a national survey carried out by Real Estate Alliance. The average semi-detached house nationally now costs €209,944, the Quarter 1 REA Average House Price Survey has found – a rise of 3.5% on the Quarter 4 2016 figure of €202,926. Overall, the average house price across the country has risen by 10.9% over the past 12 months – a marked increase on the 7.7% rise registered to the end of December 2016. The average three-bed semi-detached house in Dublin city now costs €404,167, a rise of €15,000 (3.9%) in the last three months and an increase of 12.8% over the past year. The easing of the Central Bank restriction on lending for first-time buyers has had an immediate effect on the market with a large rise in numbers at viewings and potential buyers with mortgage financing. “There has been a recovery in bank lending, which has been reflected in the purchasing end, but the accelerated figures in the Dublin market particularly, show that we are moving into a vendors’ marketplace,” said REA spokesperson Healy Hynes. “However, we need to look at these figures in relation to the market where stock levels are at their lowest nationwide since January 2007.
30 March 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 9
PEOPLE | RECEIVED FIRST CLASS HONOURS DEGREE
Mum goes from living in a squat to teaching at Trinity MARK O’BRIEN A BLANCHARDS TOWN woman who was pregnant and living in a squat at 15 has spoken about how she managed to turn her life around. Katriona O’Sullivan is now a lecturer in psychology at Trinity College and the son she had at such a young age is now a professional footballer in England. She told the Herald that her life was turned upside-down after discovering she was pregnant with her son John, who is now 23 and playing for Carlisle United, having previously been on the books of former Premier League champions Blackburn Rovers. After telling her family about the pregnancy,
Katriona O’Sullivan
she moved to Birmingham with her partner. “I was suddenly pregnant, homeless and squatting with my boyfriend,” she said. “Because I was still a child, I was placed in a hostel for young mothers when I was about five months pregnant.” John was born in Birmingham but Katriona – who is now married with two other children – split up with her part-
ner when John was two. She subsequently moved back to Dublin to be closer to her family and slowly mended relations with them. A chance encounter with another single mother led to her applying to study in Trinity College. “She told me she was studying law at Trinity on the Trinity Access Programme (TAP). She had the same background as me, very disadvantaged,” she said. “I didn’t believe her. I asked where did she get into Trinity and that minute I marched straight over to the access programme and said ‘what do I have to do to get in here?’” Katriona juggled motherhood and full-
time study and received a first class honours degree. She then won a scholarship to continue her studies by doing a PhD and after finishing her studies she was invited to become a lecturer for the TAP course. She has held that position since 2008 and said that it has been a “wonderful experience”.
Son John is playing for Carlisle
Highlighting homeless crisis TO highlight the plight of the homeless in Dublin, Fr Jo McLaughlin, the curate in St Patrick’s in Cordduff, decided to hold a sleepover in the church to raise funds and endeavour to get some sense of what it is like to sleep rough. Fr Jo is pictured with parishioners Mark Farnan, Paddy Rafferty and Fiona Debtuch who all who did the sleepover holding the cheque for €1,700 which they presented to Dublin Simon.
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Gazette babies are the cutest...
Matilda Nisbet is enjoying relaxing near her toys
More steak for Alexandra, please!
Christopher Arthurs loves cars
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Caroline B Valentim shares how great Alicia and Chloe looked for a certain day ...
Send in your baby photographs and...
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Leppin’ leprechauns! Parker Daly certainly looks the part
E’RE entering the final week of The Gazette’s Bonnie Baby competition so this is your last chance to send in those cute pix of your little prides and joys. We’ve had a wonderful response from mums, dads, proud grandparents and family friends, who’ve shared some of the cutest photos we’ve ever seen. Keep sending in those wonderful snaps of your little ones – next Thursday’s paper will be the last week for new entries, after which we’ll chose our lucky finalists, who’ll appear in the paper on Thursday, April 13th. We have some great prizes to give away – including two hampers worth €90 each from our friends at NUK Ireland – and one lucky winner will win a free family or newborn photoshoot worth €180 from Gazette photojournalist and expert baby photographer Ali, of Alison O’Hanlon Photography. So keep sending in those snaps to competitions@dublingazette.com or via our Facebook page – and don’t forget to include your details and your baby/toddler’s name and age!
30 March 2017 GAZETTE 11
Gazette competition
Ella McCullage plays peekaboo
Zack Hennessy composes his next masterpiece
Liam Kavanagh is dressed to impress
Nice to meet Louise O’Carrroll
Aneta Patriak shared this thoughtful shot of Maia Kurkowska
GAZETTE
12 GAZETTE 30 March 2017
DUBLINBUSINESS FUNDING: DUBLIN GROUPS TO GAIN FROM TECH FIRM’S DONATIONS
Brexit stage left: New research points to Dublin as preferred relocation option for London’s city bankers LONDON’S bankers should relocate to Dublin post-Brexit, according to a new study. Research by Movinga reveals that Dublin is the most favourable city for bankers, based on the average high-end rent prices, language spoken, cuisine, luxury stores and bars, pushing the cities of Frankfurt and Paris unexpectedly far down the list. According to the study, Dublin ranks first and is followed by Amsterdam in second and Valletta in third, while Frankfurt trails far behind in sixth place and Paris in ninth. The results reveal that Dublin is the most desirable city for London bankers to relocate to, scoring high for proximity (70-minute flight), English language comprehension (100%), and affordable high-end rent prices (€1,975.67). Tax Dublin also has the highest maximum income tax rate at 52%, along with Amsterdam. “Everyone talks about Paris and Frankfurt as the new financial centres of Europe after Brexit,” said Finn Hansel, managing director at Movina. “But other cities like Dublin, Valletta, Luxembourg and Amsterdam may actually be better equipped to make these workers feel happy and at home. “Individuals and businesses alike should consider the unique factors important to their relocation before planning their move.”
Laura Morgan Walsh, Director of EMEA Risk and Financial Services Operations, PayPal (centre in white top and red skirt) together with PayPal teammates presents a cheque for €9,300 to Junior Achievement Ireland. Picture: Patrick Browne
PayPal presents €55k to a range of charities EMMA NOLAN
PAYPAL has donated more than €55,000 to seven Irish charities. The five charities that received funding through PayPal Gives are ARC Cancer Support, homeless charity Depaul, children’s hospice LauraLynn, Dundalk Dog Rescue and children’s
charity Temple Street Foundation. The organisations were nominated by PayPal employees at the Blanchardstown and Dundalk offices, and received a donation of €8,400 each. ARC Cancer Support will use its donation to continue its work in supporting children and adults affected by cancer
and those caring for them. Depaul will fund a programme that supports homeless women leaving prison; helping them to integrate successfully back into their local communities.
Hospice donation LauraLynn’s donation will help fund its popular annual Light Up event,
when the charity turns on its Christmas tree lights. The contribution to Temple Street Foundation will support a new play facility for children in the hospital, while Dundalk Dog Rescue’s funding will enable it to continue to give unwanted dogs a second chance. Junior Achievement Ireland and Outreach
Moldova received €9,300 and €4,600 respectively through PayPal’s Financial Inclusion Charity Grant Programme. Maeve Dorman, PayPal’s head of Global Operations, Europe, Middle East and Africa said: “We are delighted to support these seven charities and recognise the invaluable work each of them does.”
New express Dublin-Belfast coach links cities in just 2 hours A NEW express transport link has just started between the hearts of Dublin and Belfast, with 16 daily services in each direction on offer. With March marking Dublin Coach’s tenth anniversary, the transport firm has rolled out a direct twohour service, with no stops, departing from Custom
House Quay and whisking passengers directly to Glengall St in Belfast in less than two hours. Aoife Dunphy, marketing manager for the Dublin Coach Group, said: “Dublin Coach are delighted to provide a direct service with no stops for our new M1 express service, as we received much
needed feedback from our loyal customer following. We are really excited to add Belfast to our ever-expanding nationwide network.” Fares for the Dublin Coach M1 express service will be €10 or £8 one way, with both currencies accepted at each of the stops; two children u-12 travel free with
every paying adult. Dublin Coach can be easily recognised by its distinctive green livery, with new Mercedes coaches operating the route with increased leg room, reclining leather seats, free wi-fi and a toilet on board. See www.dublincoach.ie or call 01 465 9972.
30 March 2017 GAZETTE 13
MOTORING: MICHAEL MORONEY ON WHY IT’S A GREAT TIME TO BE A VAN DRIVER P20
TRAVEL: WHY ROMANIA IS A PHOTOGRAPHER’S DREAM DESTINATION P23
DUBLINLIFE Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week
GAZETTE
MUSIC: JAMES HENDICOTT EXPLORES THE RISE OF IRISH HIP-HOP P16-17
MUSIC: THE EAGERLY AWAITED NEW ALBUM FROM DUBLIN’S FINEST IS ALMOST HERE LISTENING to Imelda May’s new album, it’s clear that one of Ireland’s biggest exports has found a new groove, here presenting the most personal and intimately autobiographical album she has ever written. Featuring the powerful single ing musicians including the core trio Should’ve Been You, the heartof guitarist Marc Ribot (Tom Waits, wrenching blues ballad ‘BlackTears’ Elvis Costello), drummer Jay Bellerose with guitar legend Jeff Beck, and the (Robert Plant and Alison Krauss) and stunning first single ‘Call Me’, May has bassist Zach Dawes (The Last Shadow poured her soul into Life. Love. Flesh. Puppets, Mini Mansions). Blood, her fifth studio album. May’s new sound sits firmly outside With just a over a week before its of any sharply defined genre box, release, Imelda says: “I wrote Black widely spanning blues, rock, soul, gosTears with Angelo Petraglia after a pel and jazz. ‘Life, Love, Flesh, Blood’ heart wrenchingly difficult goodbye. I breathes new life into a classic sound, closed my door and caught a glimpse with Imelda’s powerhouse vocal as of myself in the mirror with black tears distinctive as ever, cementing her posirolling down my face. tion as one of the strongest vocalists of “It’s a sight and situation most her generation. women have unfortunately seen ourThe singer herself describes the selves in at some point in life. Angelo record as her most “honest” yet. had a beautiful guitar piece that fit the Imelda’s life changed considerably mood perfectly.” in the run up to recording, and this is Recorded over seven days in Los documented in the only way she knew Angeles, the album features contribuhow, saying: “It’s therapy, like keeping tions from guitar hero Beck, piano lega diary that a lot of people read.” end Holland (on ‘When It’s My Time’) With just over a week to go, we can’t and an accomplished group of backwait to listen to that diary!
THIS HUSKY LADY, COCO, IS A SWEET, CLEVER PET OUR Dog of the Week looking for their #SpecialSomeone* is Coco, a stunning threeyear-old Husky. Suitable for an adultonly home, Coco is a little aloof but she more than makes up for this with brains galore and a super, fun personality. Coco is an active dog and would make a great running partner for a sporty owner. She gets on well with other dogs, but being independent, it’s not essential that she is rehomed with another dog. If you are looking for an active running or hiking buddy that would happily curl up by your feet rather than on your lap, then Coco could be perfect for you. If you can be Coco’s #SpecialSomeone*, then please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off Exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website, www.dogstrust. ie. You can also find them on Facebook, at www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline, or on Twitter @ DogsTrust_IE.
WIN The new album, which will be released by Decca on April 7
A SIGNED COPY OF LIFE. LOVE. FLESH. BLOOD AND TICKETS TO SEE IMELDA MAY PLAY LIVE
WE’RE offering one lucky Gazette reader the chance to win a SIGNED copy of Life. Love. Flesh. Blood. But that’s not all, you can also take a pal to see Imelda and her band play live at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre at the end of May. All you have to do is Like and Share the Imelda May post on our Facebook page – and if you haven’t already, be sure to Like the Dublin Gazette Facebook page itself! Four lucky runners up will also receive a signed copy of Life. Love. Flesh. Blood. The competition is open until the April 7 – the day the new album is released – so get on down to the Dublin Gazette Facebook page and start liking and sharing!
GAZETTE
14 GAZETTE 30 March 2017
DUBLINLIFE
DIARY
SCHOOLS: OLD TECH TO HELP CONTACT HIGH-TECH ORBITAL STATION
What haven’t the Irish done for the rest of the world? HERITAGE: AN AMUSING LOOK AT OUR INFLUENCE
EMMA NOLAN
Students and teachers from Tallaght Community School pictured preparing to contact the International Space Station by direct radio, with the ISS soon to be in place 400km directly above the school. Picture: Colin O’Riordain
Students get ready for a far-out experience STUDENTS at Tallaght Community School, along with two schools from Cork, will make history this year as they have been announced as the first Irish schools who will make direct radio contact with the orbiting International Space Station (ISS). For a brief timeframe during Expedition 52 and 53, the crew on the ISS will be traveling at 27,600 km/h – and for 6 to 12 minutes it will be passing directly over Tallaght Community School. The closer the space station flies to the school, the stronger and clearer the audio feed will get. At one point during this fantastic feat of broadcast engineering, the ISS will be 400km in the sky directly above the school. Daniel Cussen, radio technical co-ordinator will be there hand to ensure their temporary mission control radio station is up and functioning. He said: “I have worked with
many schools in Europe to facilitate contact with the ISS, but as an Irishman I am delighted to be working with Irish students as they leave their mark in history.” However, due to the uncertain nature of life in outer space, an exact date for the event can not be given yet, but to stay updated on the students’ journey follow them on Facebook/TallaghtCommunity-School, or Twitter @ TCSTallaght.
BRAVE SOULS SOUGHT TO ABSEIL OFF CROKER EVER felt like abseiling from the top of Croke Park? Well, here’s your chance to do so – and to help out a a good cause as you go. Jigsaw, Ireland’s National Centre for Youth Mental Health, are seeking 60 brave individuals to join them in an abseil fundraising challenge from the top of the famous Hogan Stand at Croke Park. The challenge aims to raise more than €30,000 to support
Jigsaw’s work delivering a range of services improving the lives of young people experiencing mental health difficulties. Dubliner Caoimhe O’Callaghan, who braved the abseil last year, said: “I absolutely loved the Jigsaw Croke Park Abseil. I was terrified at the top, but once I had my feet firmly on the pitch I wanted to do it all over again!” Potential daredevils can register their interest online atjigsaw. ie/abseil, or calling the fundraising team at 01 472 7010. There is a €50 registration fee, and participants are asked to raise a minimum of €300.
DIARMUID’S GARDEN TO GO TO DUNDRUM DUNDRUM is set to get a visit from celebrity gardener Diarmuid Gavin this summer when he brings his critically-acclaimed Chelsea Flower Show Garden to Dundrum Town Centre.
The spectacular garden, which was one of the highlights of the 2016 Chelsea Flower Show, emulates pure childhood fantasy and will be on display in Dundrum Town Centre’s Pembroke Square from May. The traditional garden features beautifully preened conical trees and topiary balls, colourful planting and an elegant brick folly which takes pride in front of a sunken rectangular pond. Every 15 minutes, the tranquil garden is transformed into a whirlwind of mechanical imagination, with flowerbeds rising from the ground, twirling trees and a wooden shed that comes to life full of cogs and gardening gadgets. The garden, which will take three weeks to install, has seven moving parts and each theatrical show lasts a minute and a half. Dundrum Town Centre’s Garden of Pure Imagination launches on May 20, and will be free of charge to visitors and suitable for all ages.
“WHAT have the Irish ever done for us?” some have asked. Well, a new book aims to explore just that! Celebrating Irish achievements, W hat Have The Irish Ever Done For Us? by author and journalist David Forsythe tells how Irish people and the Irish Diaspora have made a positive contribution to the wider world. Did you know that a Dubliner is regarded as the father of conservatism, that a Dublin soccer player helped to save FC Barcelona from extinction, or that a Dublin doctor invented the hypodermic syringe? Did you also know that the Irish invented cheese and onion crisps, the submarine and chocolate milk? That without the efforts of an Irish engineer, the city of Los Angeles would not exist, or that a Kerryman is credited as the father of modern economics? These and many other surprising stories are covered in the book, which launched on St Patrick’s Day. David said: “The idea for the book came about during The Gathering in 2013. “I was covering a lot of the events associated with
the Diaspora and it struck me that virtually every village, town and townland in Ireland has some kind of intriguing story about one of their own who has done something amazing, or at least impressive! “So I decided to put some of these stories together in a book. “There are lots of ‘heavy’ books on Irish history or in-depth biographies, but I wanted to do something that was light and easy to read and hopefully interesting and entertaining.” The book is arranged into 51 short chapters and covers a wide range of topics, including how the Irish built New York, why a Cork woman was awarded Israel’s highest honour, and how the Irish helped create the modern-day horror boom. What have the Irish ever done for us? is available to order from Amazon in paperback and e-book.
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Hope springs eternal over at Fingal’s only microbrewery EMMA NOLAN THERE’S only one brewery in the whole of Fingal, and that’s Hope Beer. The state-of-the-art craft beer microbrewery is based on the Kilbarrack Road just behind Howth Junction Dart Station. Set up in late 2015 by old pals with a passion for beer – Wim de Jongh, Jeanne Mahony and Des McSwiggan – Hope now has five full-time employees and is firmly on a path to further growth. Wim said: “I always loved special beers.” Having grown up in Holland surrounded by a booming beer industry, Wim, who lives in Sutton, set up Hope after a long corporate career where he travelled abroad almost every week. He joked: “It’s great now being able to cycle to work! It was important to set up close to home.” With the Irish craft beer revolution taking place mainly outside Dublin, Hope Beer is the only brewery in the Fingal region and one of only a handful in the Dublin area. Wim added: “It’s fantastic to be a part of this industry and it’s something that will continue to grow
so it’s more of an evolution that a revolution. They have also been awarded the Fingal Enterprise Award 2017, and their beers have won a number of beer competition awards. “We were helped by Fingal County Council getting our business going and we did some course and applied for a number of courses. Then we were invited to enter the awards which we were delighted to do.” Wim said he wasn’t expecting to win because of how young the company is. “The judges were very impressed with what we’ve done so far and we’ve a very well invested facility. We really bought state-of-the-art, environmentally-friendly brewing equipment and it was all funded from our own resources.
“We’re all aged 50-plus too, so we’re known as ‘a silver start-up’.” When Hope won the award, the chief executive of Fingal, Paul Reid, praised the entrepreneurs for their “drive and determination”. He said: “Hope Beer is a very worthy winner of this major enterprise award, in recognition of what they have achieved here in Fingal in such a short space of time.” Hope’s three core beers are Handsome Jack (a fruity IPA), Grunt (a crisp, dry Saison) and Passifyoucan (a malty Blonde). Wim added that food pairings are a major part of the appeal of the beers. “Grunt goes perfectly with seafood; Passifyoucan is great with anything spicy, and Handsome Jack is great to have with burgers or a barbeque.” Hope also has a number of limited edition beers; they brew everything from stouts and lagers to red and brown ales. The entire Hope range is bottled and kegged at the Howth Junction brewer y, and is available in off-licences, bars, restaurants and also in some supermarkets nationwide.
A fine haul of three Silver medals at Alltech Craft Brews and Food Fair; inset: part of the brewery
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“POWER, BELONGING AND THE NEED TO BE HEARD:” N O I T C U D O R T N I AN P O H P I H H S I R I O T JAMES HENDICOTT
TEMPER-MENTAL MISSELAYNEOUS
FROM creeping into the mainstream through the likes of Rubberbandits, Super Extra Bonus Party and featuring in Love/ Hate, to the Rusangano Family’s debut album taking home the Choice Music Prize earlier this month: the rise of Irish hip-hop has been as dramatic as it has been unlikely. It helped, of course, that the scene’s quick progression fell alongside a massive recession instigated in part through regulatory failure, repressively rising urban rents and mass social protests. Angry, pointed voices sat naturally with their new audience. As Dublin-based hip-hop star TemperMental MissElayneous tells it: “It’s hunger that’s causing hip-hop’s boom. It’s also identification with the social dynamics of the birthplace and creators of hip-hop, and a willingness to learn and lead. But we value cultural identity and the lyrical Irish roots: saints and scholars. Poverty, loss and grievance.” While on the poppier end of the spectrum, Temper-Mental embodies much of what’s strong about the budding Irish scene: a distinctly locally-accented sound, quick wit, cultural references and original beats. In ‘Create the Pain to Alleviate It’, she shows her depth, with the imagery of rotting apple cores set against a world of social and gender politics: “questioning, self loathing, dissatisfaction, doubt... We refuse to believe we’re animals yet... Poets once honoured are now in McDonalds, a dozen a dime.” Temper-Mental identifies many of the topics of Irish political discourse as her themes, singling out misogyny, heterosexism, God, transformation and pain as her core elements.
“It’s a cultural revolutionary movement,” she explains. “It’s on the concrete, on the corner, it’s in classrooms, yards, youth clubs, community art centres, it’s in prison, in the bedroom studio, on the stairwell, down the lane and held privately in a heart’s rhythm waiting to be translated to words.” A distinctly accented, smart-quipping artist who rose alongside Temper-Mental MissElayneous at the height of the recession in 2011/2012, Lethal Dialect has a harsher dynamic to his sound and also cites local cultural figures as key influences in his lyrics, nodding in particular Irish folk star Damien Dempsey. Despite being three albums into his career, the rapper admits “I’m only really finding my own sound now. There’s some old stuff where you could nearly tell what I was listening to at the time.” His north Dublin lilt and conceptual approach to albums, however, have often stood out. As a lyricist, he’s distinctly observational, picking out local characters mid flow, like in ‘New Dublin Saunter’: “I can’t fathom why your own people hate to hear their own accents, they call by different names, inferiority complex, malignant shame... A problem child Oscar Wilde... Watch what this generation does, and remember I said that...” For him, despite the growth of live shows recently, the scene lives mainly online, a more boisterous and magnified version of the bedroom recordings he started out with. “There’s a good online following that can be converted into a real world following with more gigs,” he explains. “There are class acts putting out quality releases constantly.”
INTELLECTUAL HIP-HOP... There’s a recurring theme in Irish releases, and while the accents can be wonderfully distinct, it runs deeper. It’s more in the intellectual angles; the artistic references, the experiential depth of the carefully shaped words. Bling it’s not; it relates more to the urban jungles of Dublin and Limerick, the poverty trap, the crumbling corners tourists never see.
one of Ireland’s growing number of African immigrants. “This is where history finds us: no black, no dogs, no Irish” they quip in hit single ‘Heathrow,’, a stunningly moving and emotional diatribe on race politics that brilliantly documents the senses and everyday dimensions of an immigrant’s journey. It roles off in abrasive first person, opening with “I don’t care where you come from,
RUSANGANO FAMILY Perhaps the most successful act of 2016 gathered, slowly, a wider following before exploding on the release of their album ‘Let The Dead Bury The Dead’. Rusangano Family are a band built - unusually for the scene - on an intensely vibrant live show, also chucking in those unique personal perspectives. Regardless, they agree with Lethal Dialect’s labeling of hip-hop’s Irish heartland: “The easier answer would be Irish hip-hop lives on the internet,” they explain. “But it’s more multifaceted and more mature than ever.” Based in Limerick the trio trace their roots to Togo, Zimbabwe and down the road in rural County Clare. Lyrically, they vigorously cut to the heart of what it is to be
I don’t want any of your kind around here anymore.” “I think people are more adventurous musically, and realise they need a plan of action, better tracks, sharper production, tighter stage shows,” they argue. “These things take time to mature, but it feels like it’s going in a really creative direction. More power to us, it’s really inspiring.” Another act pouring his heart into his music is Emzee A, though he prefers to turn his observations inwards. The Dublin-based up-and-comer simply defines his music as “a combination of what I’ve been through, and what I’m going through, all the relationships in my life.” His slightly foggy style of beats layer with
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deeply personal moments, like in Sober Thoughts, in which he spits “my life is going nowhere, I’m lost, I don’t need your love.” “It’s about the people in my life and how I have either helped them or disappointed them, or the books I’m reading at the moment, that’s where the messages come,” he tells us. “Stuff like lucid dreaming, sleep paralysis, insomnia, love, my flaws and how I’m willing to become a better person everyday.” He’s another voice emerging into what was once all but a void. BUILDING ON A BUDDING A SCENE An organisation operating right at the very roots of Irish hip-hop, putting on backroom shows and promoting burgeoning artists, is fast-growing Dublin promoters Word Up Collective. “The vibrancy and the energy of those involved really attracted us,” Word Up cofounder Phil Udell explains, “as well as the supportive nature of those involved.” “It just feels like there’s something really important happening. Everywhere you look there’s some incredible music being made. Since we started in April, we’ve had a huge number of artists get in touch. Our monthly live gigs in Dublin have expanded to feature acts who aren’t directly part of the collective, we’ve had a good few make their live debut with us.” “It’s very varied as well, even in Word Up we have R&B, pop, alternative rap and spoken word. I hope that it’ll develop it’s own identity, just like the grime scene in the UK has done. Rusangano Family and others are pushing their own unique sound. It can only get bigger” What Irish hip-hop lacks is a physical heartland. In the greatest of Irish traditions, as well as typical music venues,
events take place in pub back rooms and are only slowly emerging into the more established venues, yet festival slots and support roles alongside touring artists like Kendrick Lamar and Death Grips are quickly expanding audiences. Rusangano Family’s album launch show - a boisterous, sold-out triumph - took place in Dublin’s Sugar Club, a sloping, seated venue given a theatrical feel by its velvet and tables. It’s better suited to its regular burlesque nights, but the trio triumphantly made it work. Yet the signs of mainstream acceptance of the scene are coming thick and fast. Rusangano Family’s debut was recognised as Ireland’s best of 2016. TemperMental MissElayneous’ unusual career highlight came through substantial cultural recognition: having her work formally preserved in the James Joyce library at University College Dublin. Their intent? “That generations to come will see my work as part of urban contemporary poetry, music and art in Ireland.” What’s reassuring is the scene’s collective ambition: despite their successes, almost every artist speaks about improving. They talk about their progress, but also about how far there is to travel. Hip-hop as a local musical force still feels like a baby in Ireland, but it’s lent credibility by history: Irish storytelling traditions adapt nicely to urban poetry. But the scene is new to substantial acclaim, new to having a following, and new to the shining spotlight of any notable media attention. “Confidence and cowardice has caused this hip-hop boom in equal measure,” Temper-Mental concludes. Both when it’s confident and when it’s not, Irish hip-hop lives today in a way it never has before.
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INSIGHT: TAKE A COMPREHENSIVE LOOK AT THE WORK OF THE ORBIS FLYING EYE HOSPITAL
A plane amazing charity Are ye right there, Teds? Visitors have a perfectly bearable wait aboard the Orbis Flying Eye Hospital, which gave Dublin visitors a great look around its specially adapted medial interior recently.
EARLIER this month the Cllr Donnelly was suffer from preventable Orbis Flying Eye Hospi- wowed by the suite of conditions. Some 90% tal – the world’s only air- medical facilities on of those affected live in borne ophthalmic train- board, and praised the developing countries ing facility – winged it to charity’s work. She said: where they cannot access Ireland for the first time in “In late 2013 I visited the type of sight-saving ten years, giving visitors a Ethiopia to make a radio treatments that many othfirst-hand look at its sight- documentary on disability ers take for granted. saving, life-changing work in the developing world. I For more than 30 years, around the world. was really impressed with Orbis has helped counOne of the visitors to the incredible work Orbis tries build the skills and the aircraft during its brief do in that part of the resources they need to stayover at Dublin Airport world.” address the problem. was former radio producMore than 285 million The charity now has a er Cllr Deirdre Donnelly people around the world team of more than 400 (Ind) from Stillorgan, who are blind, and 4 out of 5 expert medical volunteers, has personally witnessed the work carried out by Orbis overseas. The international charity fights blindness around the globe, with its Flying Eye Hospital – a specially designed and converted MD-10 aircraft – combining the latest in avionics, hospital engineering, technology and clinical expertise, making it possible to bring ophthalmic training to communities Cllr Deirdre Donnelly (Ind) taking a close look around in developing countries. the Orbis plane and its impressive medical facilities
from 30 countries, training local medical teams both in their own hospitals and on the Flying Eye Hospital, with a focus on quality and safety standards for patient care. Over the past 10 years, irish people have invested €4.33 million in providing eye care services across the southern regions of Ethiopia – an area with a population of 2.2 million people. By 2019, Orbis Ireland’s aim is to conduct 17,000 eye surgeries, provide more than 4,000 training sessions for eye care teams and health workers, and prescribe more than 6,000 pairs of glasses. Orbis Ireland is based in the Sandyford Business District and each year paediatric ophthalmologist, Donal Bresnihan and optometrist, Tony McAleer of the Eye and Ear Hospital in Dublin, travel with Orbis to Ethiopia to train
medical teams in treatment and prevention. Cllr Donnelly said: “When I was making the programme I visited some of the woredas, or small villages, with no electricity, toilets or running water. “It is really sad to witness first-hand how blindness or any other kind of disability affects not just the person who has the condition, but so many others around them. “It automatically means a reduced income and quite often the children – usually the girls – can’t go to school or partake in other activities because they have to become the carer. Restoring one blind person’s sight will have a positive effect on the lives of so many around them. “I saw first-hand how an operation to restore sight is carried out, and I was there when the antibiotic that prevents Trachoma was being distributed.
“I learnt on my visit that a large percentage of the population live in remote rural communities. This poses problems for distribution and treatment, so that is why outreach facilities and mobile clinics are so important,” she said. Maurice Cox, chairman of Orbis Ireland, said: “Over the past ten years, Orbis Ireland’s mission has been to eliminate a painful blinding eye disease – Trachoma – from the poorest regions of southern Ethiopia.
“Together, the unwavering commitment and partnership from the Irish people has allowed us to accomplish so much to provide basic eye care for those most in need.” For every €1 raised by Orbis Ireland, 81 cent goes directly towards saving sight. The remaining 19 cent is invested in raising more funds and administration – for each €1 spent, Orbis Ireland raises €5.31. For further information, see http://irl.orbis.org/
Diane Wetherup and Dr Maurice Cox, both of Orbis Ireland with Donal Bresnihan, consultant paediatric opthalmologist at the Eye and Ear Hospital, Dublin
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in association with
The Dublin Gazette drives you through the motoring world on a tour of the latest models, technology & industry news
VOLKSWAGEN TO BUILD SEAT’S NEW MIDSIZE SUV THE Seat car group which is part of Volkswagen Group will add a new midsize SUV to it range over the coming year and that car will be built in Volkswagen’s factory in Wolfsburg, Germany, Seat CEO Luca de Meo has said. The new unnamed Seat SUV will be launched in 2018 and will be the Spanish brand’s third entry in the growing SUV/crossover segment after the Ateca compact and about to be launched Arona subcompact SUV, the Seat CEO said. “The Ateca will have a big brother, a five- and sevenseat SUV that VW will build for us in Wolfsburg,” de Meo said. The Seat head said that the new mid-size SUV will share its underpinnings with the Volkswagen Tiguan, which is built in Wolfsburg, Germany. This will be the Seat model to be built at a Volkswagen Group plant instead of the Spanish brand’s home factory in Martorell, Spain. The recently introduced Seat Ateca is built by Skoda in the Czech Republic. Seat is expanding into the segment to help it become sustainably profitable after years of losses. SUV sales last year grew to cover one every four sales in Europe. Seat claims that the new SUV will be Seat’s flagship and hopes that it will have a positive effect on the company’s challenged profit margins. Seat achieved its best financial results in its history in 2016. The company made progress towards sustainable profitability with the company closing the year in the black for the first time since 2007, achieving as well the high-
Seat will be adding a new
est operating profit
bigger SUV to the recently
in its history.
introduced Ateca model
Opel OnStar users to get further services
Get a look at the new Giulia
ALFA Romeo in Ireland is poised for a significant return to the market with the arrival of the new Alfa Romeo Giulia. These impressively stylish and stand-out cars are powered by a new range of all-aluminium engines that provides fresh competition in the market for the likes of the Audi A4 and BMW 3 Series. Entry prices start at €40,395 for the 2.0 litre turbo-petrol model. The new Alfa Romeo Giulia embodies the core elements that have made Alfa Romeo one of the world’s best-loved automotive brands. It comes with distinctive Italian design, new engines and transmissions, unique technical solutions and the best weight-to-power ratio. The Giulia comes with a new rear-wheel drive system with short overhangs, a long bonnet,
OPEL cars with OnStar on board have been on the roads for about 18 months now. Currently, every second new Opel in Europe is equipped with the information system. The personal connectivity and service assistant offer includes automatic crash response, vehicle diagnostics, stolen vehicle assistance and a Wi-Fi hotspot for outstanding connectivity. In the last 18 months, Opel OnStar has already registered more than nine million interactions, around half of those via smartphones and the myOpel app.
muscular haunches and claims of the longest wheelbase in its segment. The Giulia claims to benefit from the careful management of weights and materials to obtain 50:50 weight distribution across its axles. Alfa Romeo says the new four-arm AlfaTM Link rear suspension and new double-wishbone front set up have been specifically tuned to maximise its dynamic abilities and enhance driving comfort. Also new on the Giulia is a new semi-virtual steering axis which claims to optimise the filtering effect and guarantees rapid, accurate steering by keeping a constant caster trail in corners. New eight-speed automatic transmission will be standard on all Irish models.
Now Opel OnStar subscribers can look forward to further services such as hotel room booking or parking spot search via an OnStar advisor. By the end of the year, Opel plans to offer OnStar in 33 countries across Europe and in 23 languages. Since the summer of 2015, the Opel OnStar Service Center has received over 21,000 emergency calls. Responding to emergencies is only one of the many functions that make driving safer and more comfortable. Now OnStar advisors can also help find and
book a hotel room or locate the best spot to park the car. Both services launched with the new Opel Insignia will be available for all models ranging from the Adam to the Zafira.
The new Opel Insignia
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It’s a great time to buy if a van is your only man Commercial drivers have never had so many choices when it comes to making their selection of a mid-range panel van. There has been a plethora of new vans joining the market in 2017, so Dublin van drivers have choices like never before – as Michael Moroney discovered when he compared Nissan’s new NV300 with Toyota’s new Proace.
came with a twin turbo system to give marginally more power at 120bhp. That was reflected in better road performance as the NV300 could achieve the motorway speed of 120km/hr with a reasonable load at 2000rpm on the engine. For the lower power Toyota Proace there was a need for a heavier pedal SPECIFICATIONS Nissan Toyota and that too was reflectEngine 1.6 litre 1.6 litre ed in slightly poorer fuel Engine power 125hp 95hp economy over the entire 0 – 100km/hr 10.2 seconds 15.5 seconds length of the test drive Economy 17m/litre (5.9l/100km 18m/litre (5.5/100km period. Both vans are well or 48mpg) or 51mpg) rated in terms of econoFuel Tank Capacity 80 litres 80 litres my and would put some CO2 emissions 139g/km 139g/km cars to shame. On paper Road Tax Band Commercial €333 Commercial €333 the lower power Proace is Load Volume (m3) 5.2 5.3 the more economical, but in reality I found that the Payload (kg) 1243 1360 extra power in the NV300 Entry Price €22,995 €22,790 meant that over the period of a slightly longer test IT’S a van driver’s world that also encompass the and the cubic capac- drive it gave a marginin 2017 as a wide selection Renault Trafic, Fiat Talen- ity was tested in terms of ally better fuel economy of new vans has appeared to and Opel Vivara on the load space with each of return. The use of Nissan’s on the Irish market giving Nissan NV300 side, and them across a range of Eco button to give lower more choice than ever. All the Citroen Dispatch and road conditions. As an overall com- power and better econoof the popular mid-range Peugeot Expert on the van suppliers have intro- Toyota Proace side. So in ment it’s fair to say that my on longer drives and duced new models and essence we are compar- van drivers are getting I could see the different delve a little deeper and ing seven vans that have a better deal than ever when put to the test. This you’ll find some interest- broad similarities across from both ranges in terms is a useful feature that will ing similarities. two design families. That of comfort and perfor- save fuel on longer runs, This week I’m com- makes it a true van driv- mance. Economy levels while it was difficult to be paring two popular mid- er’s world in terms of 2017 have improved and I was exact on the level of fuel range vans, the Nissan van choices. impressed with the range saving. NV300, which replaces I’ve driven the Nissan achieved with a full dieFor van drivers the the Primastar and the NV300 and the Toyota sel tank capacity, which load capacity is the other Toyota Proace, both new Proace in recent weeks, interestingly was 80 litre important consideration. vans for 2017. each time clocking up in both cases. Whether you are a carBoth vans are powered penter, butcher or builder, T h e c o m p a r i s o n close to 1,000km over a by 1.6 litre turbo-diesel the key is how much you doesn’t stop there as these number of days. vans are each part of a Each van was tested engines, while the test fit securely into the back separate family of vans with and without its load, version Nissan NV300 of the van and how acces-
in association with
The new Nissan NV300 has a new more modern van layout with impressive specification options to give good load carrying capacity coupled with driver comfort
Nissan NV300 v Toyota Proace
Toyota’s new Proace has similar styling to the Citroën Dispatch and Peugeot Expert and comes with a range of options and three vehicle lengths
sible that load is. It was interesting that both vans were almost identical in terms of load volumes to make that choice even more difficult. The NV300 had one side opening door while the Proace came with two. This is a specification detail and most vans can be specified with a range of door options to suit the users need. The twin door feature on the Proace made loading that much easier, but then it is another door to keep secure if you have valuable tools as part of your load. Both vans come with smart storage options that allow a small hatch to be opened under the passenger seat to carry
longer timber or pipe loads. The Nissan comes with the longer length capacity and is rated to carry three euro pallets or 2.5m sheets of plasterboard on the flat. I liked the LED lighting in the Nissan NV300; it was bright and made night loading so much easier. The bulkhead behind the driver was solid, while that on the Toyota Proace came with a strengthened window, also a useful feature. An important part of van ownership is the cost to your business. That is a combination of service intervals, depreciation and the warranty deal. Nissan tops Toyota when it comes to the warranty deal with a 5 year offer versus Toyota’s
3 year deal. The final decision will not be about price either, as these vans come with very similar entry prices, €22,995 for the Nissan and €22,790 for the Toyota. The final costs will be determined by the choice of specification options and there are plenty of choices in either van. What will dictate the deal is the overall value and that includes deal access, because van owners cannot tolerate downtime. Making van choices has never meant so much about options, so that’s why comparing like with like in the van market can take some time; on the basic performance features the Nissan NV300 left me impressed.
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in association with
Microsoft licenses connected car patents to Toyota MICROSOFT said it will license many of its connected vehicle patents to Toyota Motor in its most wide-ranging intellectual property agreement with a car company. The agreement gives Toyota broad access to all of its connected car patents. These include an operating system, voice recognition, gesture control, artificial intelligence and cyber security tools. Microsoft said it is looking to partner with additional car companies along similar lines.
The E-Class Coupe is here
THE STYLISH new Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe has arrived in Ireland and is already causing quite a stir amongst motoring buffs in dealer showrooms around the capital. This follows the line of its predecessors, exuding that timeless combination of beauty, elegance and performance within an overall modern design. This new Coupe joins the E-Class line-up alongside the saloon and estate versions and ahead of the soon-to-belaunched cabriolet. Mercedes-Benz claims that it combines the virtues of a grand tourer with the latest developments in the fields of passenger safety, comfort and performance. Outside, this coupe is larger than its predecessor in terms of overall length, width and height. Passengers enjoy an extra sense of spaciousness and comfort, especially in terms of rear legroom, front and rear shoulder room and rear headroom. Two wide doors give easy access to the front and rear of the car while its
frameless side windows and the absence of a B-pillar give it an added air of luxury and style. From the front, its sporty styling can be seen in its long bonnet with discreet power domes, low set diamond patterned grille with centrally-mounted star and broad air intake vents. This sporty note is carried through to the interior where contemporary colour schemes combine to give an added measure of sophistication.
Two light wood trim packages in openpore and high-gloss finishes are exclusive to the Coupe. Interior lighting makes use of LED technology. Emissions Initially, the car will be available with one diesel and three petrol engines all of which come with start/stop function and are Euro 6 emissions compliant. Other engines will follow. Models likely to attract most attention here will be the
E200 petrol and E220d diesel versions. Powered by a 1991cc, 4-cylinder, 184bhp engine, the E200 comes on the market at â‚Ź52,310. The E220d, powered by a newly developed, 1950cc, 194bhp, 4-cylinder diesel engine, launches at â‚Ź52,995. Equipped with items first introduced in the E-Class saloon, this latest version makes greater use of technology than the model it replaces. Features carried forward include a remote parking pilot system that allows the vehicle to be moved into and out of garages and parking spaces remotely. Full smart phone integration, active brake assist and other driver assistance systems, latest developments in driver infotainment and the option of partially automated driving are amongst it many features. A new LED tail light arrangement employs innovative crystal optics to give off a brilliant appearance that MercedesBenz says is reminiscent of a jet engine glow.
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FASTNews
Fiat Chrysler under emission cheating investigation in France
FIAT Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) is being investigated in France over allegations that the Italian based carmaker cheated in diesel-emission tests. This came after the French finance ministry’s DGCCRF consumer affairs and anti-fraud body had referred the case to the courts. The FCA Groups claims that its diesel vehicles fully comply with emission regulations, as confirmed by the Italian Transport Ministry. The spokesman said the company would continue to collaborate with the authorities on all investigations and was confident the matter would be fully resolved. Following Volkswagen’s admission in 2015 of cheat-
ing on U.S. diesel-emission tests, some European countries launched tests on vehicle emissions. The European tests found on-road nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions more than 10 times above regulatory limits, for some Opel, Renault and FCA models and widespread use of devices that reduce exhaust treatment in some conditions. The French test program has so far led to four car companies Volkswagen, Renault, FCA and PSA Group, being referred for possible prosecution by the consumer fraud agency. In recent weeks, the Opel brand was cleared of any emissions wrongdoing by the French authorities.
New branch manager at Renault Belgard Kevin Troy has been
Renault Ireland, where
appointed Branch
he spent over a decade
Director for Renault
as Sales & Network
Retail Group at
Business Manager.
Renault’s Belgard deal-
Prior to this, Kevin was
ership in Tallaght. No
Key Accounts Manager
stranger to the motor
at Transport Compo-
industry, Kevin joins
nents on Dublin’s Long
the dealership from
Mile Road for 10 years.
in association with
Renault revs up their support for Pieta House R E N AU LT I r e l a n d recently handed over the key card to a brandnew 171 Renault Megane Grand Coupe to Pieta House. One person who will happily make use of the Coupe is Pieta House CEO Brian Higgins, who regularly travels all over Ireland to visit the Pieta House centres, the latest of which is to open in Letterkenny, Co Donegal, by mid-May. The car is branded with the charity’s logo, and it will act as a ‘vehicle’ to raise awareness of Pieta House. Brian Higgins, Pieta House CEO said: “I am delighted that Renault has lent us their valuable support. I spend a lot of my time on the road visiting our centres and aside from its safety and comfort, Renault’s
Brian Higgins Pieta House CEO, Kevin Troy Branch Director Renault Retail Group, Liz O’Gorman Marketing Manager Renault Ireland
Pieta House branded car is a moving advertisement for our services as I travel the length and breadth of Ireland in the Renault Megane
Grand Coupe. One of our key messages is that we all need to tackle the stigma that leads people to the doors of Pieta House, so the further
I travel to spread that message and the more people I get to see and speak to, the better.” Patrick Magee, countr y operations man-
ager, Renault Ireland said: “Renault Ireland is delighted to be in a position to lend its support to such a worthy charity as Pieta House. Its staff work tirelessly every day to help some of the most vulnerable people in our society and we hope that this All-New Renault Mégane Grand Coupé will benefit the amazing work that they do.” Pieta House has helped more than 28,000 people since its doors first opened 11 years ago. Since last year, Pieta House has also been providing counselling, therapy and support to individuals, couples, families and children who have been bereaved by suicide. Pieta House also operates the free 24-hour suicide helpline 1800 247 247.
Texaco invitation to take ‘Road to Adventure’ TEXACO is inviting motorists to take a ‘road to adventure’ in a new forecourt promotion now running at participating service stations across the country. Said to provide proof that the forecourt sector is as active as ever in its drive to win new customers and retain the loyalty of others, motorists purchasing fuel valued €30 or more are being offered the opportunity to win one of eight week-long holidays to Italy’s Amalfi Coast, each one valued at €3,000, with no limit on the number of entries any one motorist can make. Using latest smart phone technology, those purchasing the qualifying amount of fuel are asked to upload a picture of their receipt to a dedicated website together with name and contact details thereby eliminating the need for form filling or mailing. Running until early-May, winners can decide the dates and details of their holiday which must be booked before the end of August and taken before the end of August next year.
Atlas Autoservice has been servicing cars for 43 years and has 10 locations
30 March 2017 GAZETTE 23
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DUBLINLIFE fast TRAVEL NEWS
TRAVEL
ROMANIA: SINK YOUR TEETH INTO A TRANSYLVANIA PHOTOGRAPHY TRIP
Perfect packages for an great break away TAKE advantage of the great deals on offer right now and book yourself a city break in Rome or a slice of summer sun in Spain or Portugal. Clickandgo.com has great deals starting from just €289 for a four-star stay in the Italian capital. Here are three of our fave deals. 4-star Rome city break from €289pp in May From €289pp for the 4-star Relais Patrizi Hotel. Price is per person based on two adults sharing for travel in May 2017. Price includes:• Three nights in the 4-star Relais Patrizi Hotel, Rome, Italy. • Double standard on a bed and breakfast basis. • Return Aer Lingus flights from Dublin to Rome. • Airport taxes & charges
Brasov is resplendent with gothic, baroque and renaissance architecture. Inset: Bran Castle is a hilltop fortress with ties to Dracula
Visit the Eternal City for just €289pp this May
3-star Salou in May from €759 per family From €759 per family for the 3-star CYE Holiday Centre Aparthotel. Price is per person based on two adults + 1 child sharing for travel in May 2017. Price includes: • Seven nights in the 3-star CYE Holiday Centre Aparthotel, Salou Town, Salou, Spain • Staff pick. • One bedroom apartment on a self catering basis. • Return Aer Lingus flights from Dublin to Barcelona. • Airport Transfers, Taxes & Charges Over 50’s April special to the Algarve from €399pp. From €399pp for the 4-star Belver Hotel Boavista. Price is per person based on two sharing in April 2017. Price includes: • 7 nights in the 4-star Belver Hotel Boavista, Albufeira, The Algarve, Portugal • Double City View on a half-board basis • Return Aer Lingus flights from Dublin to Faro • Airport Transfers, Taxes and Charges • Free wine and water with evening meal Visit www.clickandgo.com or call (01) 539 7777. * Prices are ‘from’ prices, based on select departure dates from Dublin based on two adults sharing. Price includes return flights, specified accommodation and airport taxes and charges where stated. Prices exclude check-in luggage unless
stated.
A picture perfect trip SYLVIA POWNALL
MENTION Transylvania and most people conjure up an image of Dracula – or a far less sinister Tim Curry in The Rocky Horror Picture Show - but this magical corner of Romania has lots to offer. The Travel Department has just added a Transylvania Photography Holiday to its active tours list – perfect for those looking to develop their skills as a snapper under the guidance of an expert tutor. The largest of the Balkan nations, Romania is a land of stunning mountain scenery, unspoiled countryside
and historic towns, making it a fantastic destination for anyone looking to develop their street, landscape and documentary photography skills. The group will be based in the charming old town of Brasov for four nights, with the opportunity to photograph the remarkable landscapes of the Transylvania region as you travel high into the Carpathian Mountains. You’ll also visit the picturesque medieval town of Viscri, famous for its traditional houses and Saxon fortified church, and Sighisoara, with its impeccably preserved hilltop citadel.
THE UBER-romantic Radisson Blu Hotel & Spa, Limerick, is inviting brides and grooms-to-be to come and discover how the hotel can
Of course, no stay in Transylvania would be complete without a visit to the imposing fortress of Dracula’s Castle. This tour is provided in association with Dublin Photography School and is suitable for anyone seeking to develop their digital photography skills, from beginners to advanced. Stewart Kenny, an awardwinning fine-art landscape photographer plus an additional tutor from the school will accompany the group, offering tutorials, demonstrations and photography tips, as well as spectacular photographic opportunities. Camera buffs will love
this picture postcard tour of a region steeped in history – and not a vampire in sight! Alternatively, if photography is not your thing but you’re still looking for something a bit different then TD’s three-night city break to Bucharest could be the answer. From its 17th and 18th century Orthodox churches to its art nouveaux villas, neoclassical palaces and imposing communist-era buildings, the remnants of Bucharest’s fascinating history are everywhere. The historic Centru Vechi or Old Town has evolved into a lively entertainment district, full of bars, pubs
and restaurants while the city also boasts an abundance of parks, gardens and museums. Prices for the Bucharest city break start at €359 per person with departure dates in April, June and October. Transylvania Photography tour prices start from €699pp for four nights including return flights from Dublin, B&B hotel accommodation, transfers, excursions, taxes & charges, expert local guides and tutors from Dublin Photography School, with flight departing 13 September 2017. See www.traveldepartment.ie for more details.
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24 BLANCH GAZETTE 30 March 2017
DUBLINLIFE ReelReviews
LIFE
Death snacks in space OH, THOSE scientists, will they never learn? In Life (Cert 15A, 104 mins), astronauts on the orbiting ISS recover a martian microbe, which grows ever bigger and bigger until it develops a taste for crunchy, juicy, delicious astronauts ... Life repackages plenty of familiar tropes and classic films, but the end result is an engaging, tautly-told tale of terror above the Earth.
BEAUTY & THE BEAST Watson at the cinema Chris (Daniel Kaluuya) find something rotten in suburbia when he takes a trip upstate with his girlfriend to meet her parents for the first time – but weirdness ensues ...
GET OUT: A MEMORABLE MIX OF HORROR, SOCIAL COMMENTARY AND COMEDY
A darkly original satire DIRECTOR Jordan Peele’s first foray into feature filmmaking is a horror movie with purpose; one that wears its genre-movie influences on its sleeve for all to see, but inflects everything with biting social and political commentary. Get Out’s (Cert 15A, 103 mins) subtext is anything but submerged, and is far more disturbing than any of the horror archetypes that Peele adapts. The opening few minutes of Get Out immediately conjure up memories of John Carpenter’s Halloween and decades worth of its imitators. A black man wanders through an affluent sub-
MARTIN MACNAMARA
urban neighbourhood in the middle of the night, before being knocked out and thrown in the boot of a car. The tone is off-kilter, run through with humour, but the realworld connotation is deeply disturbing. Months later, Chris (Daniel Kaluuya) prepares for a weekend trip to his girlfriend’s family home, where he will meet her wealthy parents
for the first time. Rose (Allison Williams) insists that her parents (Bradley Whitford and Catherine Keener) will have no problem with Chris’s race; that her father, Dean “would have voted for Obama a third time if he could”. Despite pleasant first impressions, Chris’s concerns prove to carry a little weight. As the weekend progresses, things get a very specific kind of weird – Rose’s family and their affluent friends exhibit a particularly strange, deviant fascination with her boyfriend’s ethnicity. Get Out is satire first and horror second. The
message is clear from the beginning: this is a scathing meditation on liberal racism in contemporary America and it is very, very funny – peppered with the offbeat humour of its director’s successful sketch show, Key and Peele. Indeed, horror is really just the vehicle for Peele’s political message; a cinematic language in which the director is particularly well versed. Despite the occasional jump scare, spot of gore or bone-chilling musical cue, Get Out is scariest when it reminds us of the real world outside the cinema doors. Kaluuya does an admirable job as the sym-
pathetic protagonist – although it takes perhaps a little too long for Chris to react to the very weird goings-on. Caleb Landry Jones is great as his best friend – our only link to the outside world, and something to grasp onto when the film takes a surprisingly Hitchockian turn later on. Bradley Whitford is brilliantly funny as the family’s oddball patriarch; a father eager to wear his cultural appropriation on his sleeve. Peele has turned in an impressive, thought-provoking and wildly original debut. Get Out exists to incite open dialogue as much as to inspire
laughter or screams. Horror fans will delight in the abundant winks at genre favourites – there’s plenty of Cronenberg and Carpenter nods on show for the discerning viewer. At the same time, however, Get Out is unlike anything that’s come before it – a genre pastiche that transcends such a meagre description in both form and content, melding both together for a tr uly unique, wickedly entertaining cinematic experience. Get Out should leave a well-deserved legacy as a contemporary horror classic. Verdict: 9/10
HERE’S the first of the Mouse House’s unexpected live-action remakes of classic films, with Mulan also on the horizon. Everybody fondly remembers the classic animation, but Emma Watson acquits herself well in this Beauty & The Beast (Cert PG, 129 mins). Still, although it’s handsomely made, and frequently lavish to look at, it’s inferior in some ways to the original.
CHIPS
Not an arresting film THOSE of you with fond memories of the cheesy but classic TV show, look away now, as CHiPS: Law and Disorder (Cert 15A, 101 mins) is about as welcome as a big speeding fine. Bringing together a mismatched pair of California highway patrol cops, the film soon settles into dull, and occasionally mildly offensive bromance territory that manages to be inferior to the TV show.
30 March 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 25
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TECH EXHIBITION: CATCHING UP WITH SOME OF THE LATEST PHOTOGRAPHY DEVELOPMENTS
Shoot for success KARL JENNINGS
I SKIPPED across the Irish Sea recently to the Photography Show in Birmingham NEC Halls, where the the latest-andgreatest gear was on show not just from the likes of Nikon and Canon, but a plethora of other consumer-camera brands too. There were approximately 235 exhibitors at the show, and right from the off, the aisles were very busy each day. There was so much to do and see at the show that your correspondent can only imagine the frustration of the single-day attendee, trying to get around to all the stands and talks. Raw, Lightroom and Instagram were the three biggest buzzwords of the show during my three days there exploring the latest tech and trends. The first term, Raw, refers to a visual digital file type, which offers a photographer much more editing control than Jpeg format. If your camera offers Raw mode – use it. Next, and to Lightroom, a piece of Adobe software. That firm had its own enclosed theatre, and most seminars within were a hot ticket.
Adobe’s PhotoShop has long been the standard image editing software for amateurs and professionals alike, but Lightroom’s new upgrades offer keen photographers ever more options for managing their galleries and libraries of images. This is important from an intellectual property point of view – and for making cash from your photos, if that’s what you wish. Finally, to Instagram. Ah, Instagram! One would think that this social media platform is the preserve of 18-year-olds, sending photos of their latest hairstyles out into the ether for their 100,000 global followers. However, the show’s workshop talks convinced many middle-aged people that they, too, can become an influencer with their photos – and monetise their hobby, to boot. In addition to photography, those interested in videography were well catered for. As an example of the type of stalls and developments at the show, a small UK start-up company, Loki (lokicameragear. com), showcased its excellent modular rig for DSLR consumer cameras, many of which
today can film in 4K ultra hidefinition video. This rig can be shouldermounted one minute, a protective jib-housing the next, and even has its own wheels to facilitate pan or tracking video shots, as shown below. Moving on, and one of the most popular areas was the Drone Zone, where parents and kids alike marvelled at the latest and greatest in airborne camera technology.
Needless to say, the bigger the drone d i a m e t e r, t h e greater the expense; most such aerial kit was aimed at industrial buyers such as coastal engineers, television producers and police forces. Thin rope mesh cages prevented the airborne contraptions from “going rogue” and taking someone’s eye out – as a photographer, it’s always best to keep both of those healthy! (Though star Scottish photographer Albert Wat-
son, 74, a speaker at the show, isn’t impaired by sight issues, despite being born blind in one eye. Sony is stealing a march from even big traditional stalwarts such as Canon and Nikon because of the quality of the lenses it’s been able to buyin, and because of the ultrahigh spec of its sensor.
Drones and aerial photography were popular exhibits
A digital camera is only as good as the size and performance of this crucial piece of internal tech: the sensor, and Sony and Nikon’s stands were extremely busy, at all times. Conscious of the tech in
cameras, and how that can affect prices, once I got back to Ireland I sounded-out a local professional – Rafal Kostrzewa – who is quite the snapperabout-town. Poland-born Rafal (photocatchthemoment.com) is making a name in fashion, portraiture, and food/restaurant photography. He was keen to allay my confusion about the best camera to buy, saying: “Buy what you can afford.” My puzzled look inspired him to explainfur ther: “I use a Canon 6D, because it takes very good stills, and is also high-quality enough for my corporate video work. “My Canon is a DSLR, and its memory-card capacity is good for the shoot-heavy work that I do.” I asked: “But Rafal, what if someone’s only got, say, €140 to invest in a decent-ish camera?” He responded: “Then I can recommend, say, a secondhand DSLR by Olympus, or even Panasonic. The image
quality is very acceptable in cameras of those brands, which may be as old as 2012 or even 2011, the year of manufacture. “My Canon has changeable lenses, so there is a bit of babysitting involved to avoid getting the sensor dusty – the bane of a professional photographer! “So, if you get a second-hand DSLR, keep the sensor clean, and shoot in Raw mode.” Next I asked: “If I do get a DSLR, what lenses do I need?” He advised: “Generally, you need just two lenses to start with; the 14-24mm range, and the general 24-70mm range, but they’re expensive, admittedly. “That’s all a serious amateur needs to cover most wide-angle, and mid-range situations. When your budget permits, add a third lens to that pair – the 70-200mm range lens. “Then that’s it – you’re complete, pretty much for life!” So, why not give your interest in photography another shot? There’s never been a better time to try to develop your ‘eye’, your skills and your passion – just Google “photography courses” and “camera clubs”, and best of luck!
The very well attended event was a great opportunity to get some firsthand insights into the latest photography, videography and drone tech and developments. Photos: Karl Jennings
26 BLANCH GAZETTE 30 March 2017
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28 BLANCH GAZETTE 30 March 2017
SPORT
FastSport TERENURE SHARE KEY UBL DRAW WITH UCD: RELEGATIONthreatened Terenure College climbed out of the bottom two of the Ulster Bank League Division 1A with a hard-earned 3-3 draw with UCD at the Belfield Bowl. Terenure have edged ahead of Garryowen in the battle of the basement sides, but they almost pipped the mid-table students in the final seconds with fullback Jake Swaine narrowly missing a difficult penalty from out on the right wing. Both sides showed plenty of attacking endeavour early on but a fast-paced first half ended scoreless, with UCD full-back Billy Dardis and Terenure winger Sam Coghlan Murray both looking dangerous. Swaine finally grabbed the opening score in the closing quarter of the tie for a 3-0 lead but UCD got back on terms when blindside Robert Duke was sinbinned and Matthew Gilsenan mopped up with the levelling three points.
RUGBY: DONNYBROOK SIDE PLAY OUT SEVEN-TRY THRILLER WITH UL BOHEMIANS
Wesley go within touching distance of playoff places
UBL DIVISION 1B
Old Wesley UL Bohemians sport@dublingazette.com
points”. Bohemians slotted two penalty kicks from James Lennon to take a six point lead and looked to be gaining the upper hand. Their swift back line was running the ball wide starting to find the odd crack in the Wesley defence. An Old Wesley line out taken against the head had the Wesley spectators groaning but, moments later, they were cheering as prolific try scorer David Poff intercepted a midfield pass to sprint in 40 metres to score under the posts.
31 27
OLD WESLEY moved within a whisker of a confirmed playoff place in the Ulster Bank League Division 1B following a cracking victory over second placed UL Bohemians in Donnybrook last Saturday. The result moves them level with Bohs on 47 points and two points from their remaining two games – including a date with bottom side Dolphin – would copper-fasten their place in the mix for promotion to the top tier. Played in perfect conditions, Wesley had a dream start when Tim Clifford broke through a couple of tackles to score a try under the posts with just two minutes gone. He converted himself for 7-0. T he visitors responded quickly levelled quickly with a converted Harry Fleming try, setting the tone for a free-flowing battle. Indeed, the Dublin side required a big turnover from Kenny Knaggs to deny another try soon after. On 24 minutes, a promising
Old Wesley on the charge against UL Bohemians last Saturday. Picture: Deryck Vincent
attack by Wesley once again had the opposition pinned in their 22. Then, a perfectly targeted pass by Josh Hinde hit Rory Stynes who pinned back the ears to cross for try number two, 14-7. But, in an exhausting spell for players and fans alike, Wesley looked to be on their way to try number three only for the visitors turned over possession
and Robbie Bourke broke away resulting in a try for them. The conversion again evened things up. UL were now getting into their stride and scored another converted try, this one from Noel Kinnane shortly after and, for the first time, the Limerick men were ahead. Just as half time approached, Old Wesley had a scrum 15
metres out from the opposition line. A break from the back of the scrum resulted in a pass to Michael Dunleavy who knew only one way to the line as he bulldozed over for a try. Again, Clifford converted to make it honours even, 21 all at the break. The second half started in a steadier fashion with both teams looking to “take their
OLD WESLEY: Rory Stynes; Brendan Monahan, David Poff, Ger Finucane, Paul Harte; Tim Clifford, Adam Griggs; Ken Knaggs, Conor Maguire, James Burton, Michael Dunleavy, Iain McGann (capt), Josh Hinde, Stephen Boyle, Mark Rowley. Replacements: David Rowley, David Henshaw, Darren Horan, Isaac Leota, Alan Large. UL BOHEMIANS: Joe Murray; Colin Ryan, Finbar Aherne, Harry Fleming, Jamie McNamara; Robbie Bourke, James Lennon; Padraig Nesbitt, Joe Bennett, Mike Lynch, Ed Kelly, Daragh Frawley, Noel Kinnane, Ian Condell (capt), Brian Walsh. Replacements: Peter King, James Ryan, Craig Trimble, Cian Aherne, Robert Hennessy
Railway and Belvedere reach All-Ireland semi-final sport@dublingazette.com
Railway Union are semi-final bound. Picture: Inpho
RAILWAY Union will face Old Belvedere on Sunday in the women’s rugby All-Ireland league semi-final at Willow Lodge at 1pm as they finished second and third, respectively, in the regular season. Railway claimed a bonus point win on the last day of the season to finish second, winning 46-20 at home to seventh-placed Cooke. Tries from Claire Ryan, Juliet Short, Lucy O’Sullivan and Katie Heffernan ensured that bonus point was secured by half-time
and Ryan went on to score two more tries as part of a fantastic overall display by the Railway Union full-back. A second try from Heffernan and a penalty try gave Railway a convincing success. The game was notable for Ireland Under-18 Sevens international Megan O’Brien’s first start at this level. She was the 46th different player to take to the pitch for Railway during the league campaign. “It is a phenomenal amount of players to use and it is a testament to our squad who have got
us to the league semi-final and the cup semi-final too,” said John Cronin, Railway Union’s director of rugby. “We have four big weekends of rugby ahead of us hopefully with the seconds also getting to a cup semi-final so we will need all of those 46 players. “It was another good performance today and, yet again, Claire Ryan was outstanding. She has been our standout player this season and is a leader and huge influence on the team. “Not only has she been fantastic in attack but rock solid
in defence and in a number of games her do-or-die tackles have saved us at the end.” Belvo, meanwhile, secured their place in the final four with a 29-5 win over fierce rivals Blackrock College. A fast, attacking start allowed them to leave a telling blow as Jackie Shiels claimed the first of her three tries after an intense period of possession. Her second try helped make it 15-0 before the break. Milli Croman extended the margin before a late exchange of tries saw Shiels complete her hat trick.
30 March 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 29
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FASTSport
LION HEART Leinster mascot’s special moment with Blues’ Leo LEO the Lion shares a high five with Leinster matchday mascot Emily McCabe ahead of the Guinness PRO12 Round 18 game between Leinster and Cardiff Blues at RDS Arena in Ballsbridge. Leinster won the tie 22-21 with tries from Dan Leavy, Luke McGrath and Ross Molony grabbing the points from a game in which they trailed going into the final quarter. They stay top of the table and are assured of a PRO12 playoff place as a result. Picture: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile
VOLLEYBALL: DUBLIN STARS TRAVEL TO BELFAST FOR TOP NOTCH BATTLE
Ireland’s All-Stars in Belfast last week
Ireland’s Northern lights sport@dublingazette.com
VO L L E Y B A L L I r e land’s All-Star men’s and women’s teams were in action last weekend in Belfast, against the Scottish and Northern Irish national squads, providing a high level of competition against an NI side preparing for the second round of the European Championships. The ladies team which includes several of the young premier stars like Natialia Ditrich and Wiktoria Wnek, got off to a great start, through
consistent setting from Regina O’Halpin, and beat Northern Ireland 3-0. Indeed, the majority of the side hail from Dublin clubs with the Tallaght’s Garda team, Ballymun Patriots, UCD and Clondalkin’s Dublin Volleyball Club all represented. The second game against Scotland, although playing superbly as a team, with great offensive play from repeat All-Star winners Indre Simkute and Edyta McMullan Ireland lost 3-0.
However, with just two points separating the teams in set 1 and 2, there was very little between the teams. The men’s team showcased some of the best volleyball skills of the Patriots conquering premier league team. Miguel Magno was controlling the game as setter and had many huge hitters to choose from including Osama Edghim, Ayslan Ferreira and Bartosz Bielecki. I n I r e l a n d ’s g a m e against Northern Ireland, which they lost 3-2, blocking on both
sides was immense, as was both teams defence, producing a great spectacle of testosterone filled long rallies. The blocking of the Scottish team had a lesser effect, allowing the Irish hitters to put on quite a show, but the tiredness of playing a second game in the day began to show, with Ireland losing the game 3-1. In 2018, Volleyball Ireland will celebrate 50 years as the governing body for volleyball in Ireland and will be running many events as part
of this celebration. One will be the St Patrick’s weekend volleyball international tournament, which they share with Nor thern Ireland every second year. Vo l l e y b a l l I r e l a n d will shortly be advertising for the head coach positions for both their national squad teams, and hope that next year they will have senior teams strong enough to compete in this tournament, alongside the All-Star teams, and continue to make the event bigger and better.
Borland’s Clontarf beat Corinthian in crucial tie CLONTARF completed the Leinster sides to contest the EY Hockey League promotion playoffs, breaking into the top three on the last day of the season for a second successive season as they bid to break into the national stage. Indeed, their 3-1 win over provincial champions Corinthian was a small landmark as the Bulls beat their first side – other than a student side – that formed part of the old Leinster Division One before the national league came in. They went 1-0 down after eight minutes from a turnover from an attacking free on Corinthian’s 23 metre line. The reds broke out and fed Dan Treacy and while he was marshalled wide by defenders and goalkeeper David Lawless, he finished well on his open side from a tight angle against his former club. John Mullins levelled the game from Tarf’s first corner with a drag-flick and they took the lead from another set piece, player-coach Gareth Borland this time dragging home. The second half saw few chances from play while both sides had corners. From one, a Corinthian body stopped the ball on the line and Borland stepped up to convert the stroke with 12 minutes to go. The result meant they jumped back ahead of Trinity who had moved into the top three four days earlier with a 7-0 win over Fingal. YMCA are the other side going forward from Dublin for the playoffs. They closed out their formal preparations for the playoffs with goals from Grant Glutz, Colin Jackson and Jamie Tobin against Weston. YM and Clontarf go into the playoffs that get under way on the weekend of April 8 and 9 with Corinthian skipping ahead to the next phase of the playoffs. From Ulster, Annadale and Kilkeel are in the playoff places while Cork Harlequins are the second best of the first teams in Munster. There remains a question mark whether Kilkeel will take part as their club constitution does not currently allow them to play on Sundays. If they withdraw, Belfast Harlequins are the side in position to take their place.
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30 BLANCH GAZETTE 30 March 2017
SPORT
FASTSport
MSB’s Onwumereh hits warp speed in Athlone NKEMJIKA Onwumereh, of Metro St Brigid’s AC, is pictured on his way to winning his Under14 60m heat ahead of Belgooly’s Glory Wenegieme during the Irish Life Health Juvenile Indoor Championships 2017 at the AIT International Arena in Athlone in a time 7.77 seconds. Onwumereh went on to win silver in the final of the competition in 7.83 seconds, finishing just behind Cabinteely’s Shane Gevero. Picture: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile
Verona pick up big win over Broadford VERONA came out 2-1 winners in a vital LSL Sunday Senior 1 relegation battle at Coolmine on Sunday, beating Broadford Rovers. The result puts five points between them and Rovers in third last place and keeps them in range of Arklow Town and Dunboyne AFC. They need to overhaul one of those sides to avoid the drop. Verona began the brighter side and were on top in the early exchanges. However, it was Broadford who opened the scoring when Stephen White headed home following a corner kick. Broadford held that 1-0 lead into the break before Verona equalised within 10 minutes of the restart when they were awarded a penalty kick following a foul on Elmir
Habibovic in the penalty area. Ian Croft converted the resulting penalty kick. The remainder of the half was finely balanced, with both sides enjoying period of ascendency. The winning goal came 10 minutes from time when Mark Kiernan was played through in a one-onone situation with the Broadford keeper. Kiernan showed great composure to finish clinically. Broadford threw everything forward in an effort to save the game but it was not to be and Verona recorded a vital three points. In defence, Dara Perdisatt, Ray Kearns, Aaron Byrne and Ray Hyland were outstanding for Verona and their efforts got the desired reaction from all around them. With four games to play this win has given Verona hope in their efforts to avoid relegation with Broadford and St John Bosco looking doomed.
SOCCER: MOCHTA’S GO SIX POINTS CLEAR IN LSL SUNDAY SENIOR
Five-star Saints bang the Drums LSL SUNDAY SENIOR St Mochta’s 5 Drumcondra 1 JAMES HENDICOTT
sport@dublingazette.com
ST MOCHTA’S hold on the Leinster Senior League is looking ever stronger, after the Porterstown club dished out a hammering to struggling Drumcondra at Morton Stadium in Santry on Sunday. The win puts the Saints six points clear at the top of the Leinster Senior League with eight games of the season remaining ahead of a crucial and defining date against third place Crumlin United away on April 5. Drumcondra didn’t look likely to be a serious threat to Mochta’s from just the 12th minute, when visiting striker David Lacey found himself through on goal. He
was to be denied illegally by the Drumcondra keeper, who saw red for using his hands to prevent Lacey getting a shot away whilst outside the box. Mochta’s had been in charge even before the intervention but against 10 men they looked utterly dominant and proceeded to add to the home side’s growing relegation woes. It was the Alan McGreal show in the first half as the forward first polished off a sparkling Keith Dunne cross to put Mochta’s in front on 23 minutes. And he added a second four minutes later, planting the ball home from just inside the area. T he former Cr umlin man has been a key acquisition for Mochta’s this year and, given the reduced numbers in opposition, the emphat-
GLOBAL SUCCESS Twenty-six kickboxers reach new belt level GLOBAL Kickboxing celebrated recently as 26 of their members from the club based in Rosemount Industrial Estate received new belts. The successful kids, aged from seven to 16-years-old, graduated to belts ranging from yellow to brown, but instead of getting caught up in their achievements, they got straight back into training as they work towards their next belts. The club is always open to new members and welcome both beginners and advanced participants.
St Mochta’s <Marc Hughes has been a key figure this season
ic way in which he put away Drums might be more worthy of attention here than anything else. McGreal turned provider for the third with Karl Somers showing flair to pummel a volley into the back of the Drums net, and effectively put the game to bed with 34 minutes on the clock. Mochta’s did take their foot off the gas but, nevertheless, David Lacey got the goal he deserved for his first half showing on 49 minutes,
beating the goalkeeper with a smart flick from a Niall O’Reilly ball in. McGreal turned provider again – meaning he’d been central to four of the five Mochta’s goals – as he played in captain Craig Sheridan for a fifth with 10 minutes remaining. Dr umcondra’s late consolation never looked like meaning much as Mochta’s ran out with both a 5-1 win, and a boost to their goal difference that makes that gap to title-holders Bluebell United look all
the more substantial. Mochta’s had other reasons to celebrate, too, as they received a €2,000 development grant from the Blanchardstown and District Credit Union last week. They’ve also set about installing a set of seats, provided by Bohemians, alongside their Porterstown Road pitches, providing the first permanent seating in a facility that’s also been expanded to include an astroturf training area in over the last couple of seasons.
30 March 2017 BLANCH GAZETTE 31
GAZETTE
KNOCK FIGHT BACK
Whelan and O’Callaghan goals earn strong win
CLUB NOTICEBOARD ST BRIGID’S
CASTLEKNOCK’S senior hurlers staged an
impressive comeback last Sunday to take two points against Setanta in a high tempo AHL2 encounter at Somerton Park. Setanta raced ahead in the early stages but a goal in each half from Luke Whelan and Niall O’Callaghan helped the home side to a 2-15 to 0-12 victory. The results adds to an opening day draw for Knock.
VERY successful Town-Hall style meeting
The nursery runs every Saturday
last Friday, March 24 to consider how to
from 9.30 to 11am; all four to seven-year-
achieve our future ambitions for the
olds are welcome.
club. Thanks to all who came and keep an eye out for the next phase.
Picture: Niall O’Connell
FOOTBALL: WESTMANSTOWN STARS LAND BIG RESULT
Keep up with all our news on our website, www.stbrigidsgaa.com. Photos
Congratulations to Jimmy Farmer,
and news items are welcome; to have
winner of St Brigid’s lotto jackpot last
them added to the website just send to
Thursday. The next draw is in the Vine-
pro.stbrigids.dublin@gaa.ie in a format
yard on March 30 with the €15,000 jack-
ready to upload.
pot to be won. Thank you to our great
First of this year’s Feile competitions
lotto committee and to everyone who
is ladies football; St Brigid’s are hosting
supports St Brigid’s lotto.
Division 2A next Saturday, April 1. Come
Well done to the Loving Cup team who
down and support the players.
won their match on Thursday and to our
St Brigid’s would like to extend their
senior hurlers on a good win on Friday,
sympathy to the O’Reilly family and to
with adult camogie win on Sunday. There
the Kehir family and to the O’Neill and
were loads of matches on show in Russell
Mulholland families all of whom have suf-
Park over the weekend.
fered recent bereavements.
CASTLEKNOCK A CLEAN sweep in adult hurling with all
Application forms for our Easter
with the senior team staging a great
camp are available on our website. The
comeback against Setanta.
camp runs from April 10 to 13th at Tir Na
Adult camogie had a decisive win in the spring cup over Peregrine’s. Mixed
Due to huge interest, no registration or payment accepted on the first day of
away to Clontarf while the Bs had a bril-
the camp.
in Somerton next Sunday at 10.30am. There was no winner of our lotto jackpot in association with Rialto Ford. Num-
UNDER-15 DIVISION 3 Westmanstown Gaels 10-10 Naomh Mearnog 0-11 sport@dublingazette.com
W E S T M A N S T OW N Gaels produced an excellent team display as they secured an emphatic 10-10 to 0-11 win over Naomh Mearnog in the Under-15 division 3 football league at Westmanstown Sports Centre. Every player could be proud of their performance as the forward line took advantage of their side’s solid foundation in defence to do the business at the opposite end of the field.
K illian Slater was exceptional in the halfback line alongside Louis White, Jamie McGovern and Ciaran Murray. The performance from the defenders inspired their teammates further up the field as Luke Curran continued his habit of scoring, while Aaron Rice, Reece Lamphiere and Liam Garrigan all put in fine performances in front of goal. It’s hard to believe that Westmanstown only led by six points going into the break, before encouragement from the management to push on in the second half reaped
dividends. The win was Westmanstown’s fourth of the league campaign from their first six games, which sees them sitting in second place, four points behind unbeaten leaders Thomas Davis. It is a great start for the side at Under-15 level, especially considering the club are still relatively new to the youth scene. There was also a fourth league win for the Under14 footballers who also remain in second position after a win over Naomh Olaf B. Elsewhere, there were wins for the girls as the
Under-15 side got the better of Naomh Fionnbarra by 5-6 to 0-6 in division 4, and the Under-13s beat Ballinteer St Johns B. In hurling, the Under12 boys were left disappointed after falling to defeat against Clontarf. Westmanstown had the better of the game as two evenly matched teams came head to head, but they failed to take too many of the chances afforded to them. Two soft goals conceded by Westmanstown proved the difference in the end but stand as vital experience in their development going forward.
into the club shop next Saturday.
A footballers lost out in a great game
The senior footballers play Sylvester’s
Gaels net 10 goals in emphatic U-15 win
nOg. Forms and payment can be handed
bag for the minor footballers; the minor
liant win against Naomh Mearnog.
Westmanstown’s Under-15s are enjoying the early stages of their new season.
8416431.
three hurling teams recording good wins
Our nursery continues, with thanks to Tigers Childcare, in Tir na nOg. Thanks to all who baked and attended Feile teams Mother’s Day cake sale on Sunday.
bers drawn were 4, 10, 13 and 20; there
We wish our U-14 girls all the best as
were 15 match three winners, each get-
they take part in football Feile takes
ting €20. The next draw is in Myo’s with a
place on Saturday, April 1 in Russell Park
jackpot of €2,800.
(Division 2) and Druimnigh (Division 8).
Last chance to get your tickets for Juno and the Paycock which is on
Action starts at 10.30am in both locations.
Thursday, March 30 for one night only in
Club condolences go to club photog-
Castleknock Community College. Tickets
rapher and mentor Shay Hogan on the
from Eilish on 086 8901147or Breda on 086
death of his sister Patricia.
GARDA/WESTMANSTOWN WELCOME improvement in weather and
as they ran up a big score against Naomh
pitch conditions last weekend meant
Mearnog to maintain their unbeaten
lots of playing action for both adults and
run.
juveniles. The intermediates went down
Not to be outdone, our U-15 girls beat
by two points in a home cup tie with St
St Finbarrs and the U-13 girls got the
Vincent’s by 0-19 to 2-11.
better of Ballinteer St John’s. The U-14
The next fixture is a home league
boys beat Naomh Olaf in a league match
match next Saturday evening against St
at Beechpark and also held a very suc-
Finbarrs; throw in at 6.30pm.
cessful sponsored solo run as a fund-
The juniors have away league fixture
raiser for the Feile. The U-12 hurlers lost
against Round Tower, Clondalkin on Sun-
their grading match against Clontarf
day morning at 11am.
despite putting up a very good perfor-
The minors picked up their second
mance; special mention to Kasper who
league win of the campaign away to Kil-
the coaches felt was our star performer.
macud Crokes on Sunday morning, win-
Feile comes to Westmanstown next
ning by 1-12 to 1-7. The next fixture is at
weekend when we host the girls AIG Feile
home to Castleknock on Sunday, April 9.
2017 Division 6 Group A Competition.
All at the club wish Ryan Haran a speedy
To help finance their Feile effort the
recovery from his recent playing injury.
U14 Girls squad ran two successful fun-
Lots of action by our juveniles over the
draising events last weekend with a Car
weekend with U-15 boys showing the way
Wash and a Cash for Clobber collection.
GAZETTESPORT
ALL OF YOUR BLANCH SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31
SIX CLEAR: St Mochta’s open up strong lead in the LSL Sunday Senior ahead of massive date with Crumlin P30
MAR 30 - APR 5, 2017
PLAYOFF SEASON BECKONS: Dublin clubs make their push to extend their campaigns P28
Dublin manager Jim Gavin says history can wait as he focuses on performance rather than records. Picture: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
D15 trio part of history Andrews, Brogan and Lowndes account for seven points between them in emphatic Dublin victory, a record-breaking 35th unbeaten match sport@dublingazette.com
DUBLIN 15 trio Paddy Andrews, Bernard Brogan and Eric Lowndes all got on the score sheet in Dublin’s historic 35th game unbeaten as they put Roscommon to the sword at Croke Park last Saturday evening. Brogan and Andrews both landed a trio of points each while Naomh Peregrine’s Lowndes kicked a point, too, in the emphatic 2-29 to 0-14 success. It saw Dublin move one game beyond the record previously held by Kerry and into the annals of history. For manager Jim Gavin, however, the focus was not on records nor their place in the
pantheon of greats as he looks, as always, to performance above anything. “Maybe when the players finish their careers they might look back and they might take something from it. “But, you know, games that they’ve performed in like this one, it’s now in the past and they need to regroup again and focus on what’s ahead,” he said after the game.
Philosophy “That’s always been our philosophy and it ain’t going to change now. The currency we deal in is performance and that’s what we try to strive for every day.” In much more welcoming conditions than
the draw in Tralee a week earlier, the league tie was much more free-flowing, showing Dublin’s ability in quick succession to both grind out results and to soar on the scoreboard. With Gavin, though, there are always elements to improve on. “We got a good performance there today but we didn’t get the complete one. “That’s what we’re always striving for and what we’ll be going after against Monaghan, which will be a completely different tactical game but one that we’ll enjoy. We enjoy those challenges.” The win over Roscommon propels Dublin to the top of Division 1 with nine points from
six games, and Gavin admits he’s pleased by how his team have played so far this year. “Yeah, absolutely, we’re satisfied with where we’re at, we’re slowly building,” he said. “I thought Kerry looked very fit for this time of the year last weekend and that game would have brought the players who played on an awful lot in terms of their match fitness. “We started quite late in January and even out there tonight the players who were on for the full 70 that would have done them good as well in terms of the match fitness piece so we have a week to train now and go to Monaghan and we’ll take it from there.”