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October 13 - 19, 2016

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Joy as St Mochta’s new school given green light  IAN BEGLEY

Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you

St Mochta’s pupils protesting for a new school at The Dail last week

ST Mochta’s NS has been given the go-ahead to proceed to tender for their new school just one month after students and teachers were told that development would not begin this year.

Once complete, St Mochta’s will have 4,791 sq metres of new accommodation and a 32 classroom school.

The school is being contacted directly by the Department of Education’s School Building Unit.

Minister Leo Varadkar said: “I am delighted that the Department of Education & Skills has been able to allocate funding (€10m) to allow St Mochta’s to go to tender.

“This has been a long journey for those involved

and I wish them every success with their build.”

Welcoming the Minister’s announcement the St Mochta’s Build Action group stated: “This is great news but we’re not at the end of the road.”

Full Story on Page 2

2 BLANCH GAZETTE 13 October 2016

EDUCATION | 32 CLASSROOM BUILDING GETS FUNDING BOOST OF €10 MILLION TO PROCEED

St Mochta’s given thumbs up to tender for new school  IAN BEGLEY ST Mochta’s NS has been given the go-ahead to proceed to tender for their new school just one month after students and teachers were told that development would not begin this year.

Once complete, St Mochta’s will have 4,791 sq metres of new accommodation and a 32 classroom school.

The school is being contacted directly by the Department of Education’s School Building Unit with details on the project and the funding (€10m) amount awarded.

Minister Leo Varadkar said: “I am delighted that the Department of Education & Skills has been able to allocate

St Mochta’s pupils protesting for their new school at The Dail last week

funding to allow St Mochta’s to go to tender.

“This has been a long journey for those involved and I wish them every success with their build.

“Fine Gael in Government is

determined to ensure that our recovering economy can benefit everyone in society.

“Our children should be number one on this priority list and it is really important that they can learn in a safe and

modern environment,” he said.

This news came just one week after a large number of children from St Mochta’s marched to the Dail to highlight their undisputed need for a new school building.

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Welcoming the Minister’s announcement, the St Mochta’s Build Action group stated: “We would appear to be back underway! This is great news but we’re not at the end of the road.

“The St Mochta’s Build Action Group would like to thank the community as a whole for their tremendous efforts in getting us to this stage, and hope that you will remain with us on the journey to getting the school built. We deserve this.”

Following years of campaigning, parents, teachers and pupils say they were led to believe by the Department of Education that the construction of the €10m building would soon begin.

However, in a letter sent to the school’s board of management last month, they discovered this would not be the case.

This will mean that approximately half of the school’s pupils and teachers will remain in prefabs for at least another year. Some of the issues affecting them include overcrowding prefabs, leaking roofs and only one PE hall to accommodate 907 children.

Deputy Ruth Coppinger (AAA) said she believes the announcement by the Department was linked to the timing of the general election to minimise St Mochta’s becoming a live issue in the Dublin West constituency where ministers, Burton and Varadkar, were candidates.

13 October 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 3

Enter another spooktacular Gazette contest IT’S bat time of the year again folks – when the kids start collecting wood for bonfires, skeletons appear in front gardens and scary clown stories start doing the rounds.

To celebrate Halloween, The Gazette this week launches another reader pix competition, and we have some fire-cracking prizes to give away over the next six weeks.

In the run up to the scariest night of the year, we want YOU to send in photos of your Halloween decorations – the best will appear in the paper

each week, with prizes for the most spooktacular images.

And, after the big night, we’ll have more frightfully bad goodies to give away for the Best Dressed Trick or Treaters! You can email: competitions@dublingazette.com or upload your pix to our Facebook page. Happy snapping!

4 BLANCH GAZETTE 13 October 2016

ICONIC CHARACTER | LIVING IN SQUALOR AND DANGEROUS CONDITIONS

Appeal for aid for Jenny  IAN BEGLEY AN urgent appeal has been set up for a wellknown Blanchardstown woman who lives in squalor and dangerous conditions.

Cruelly referred to as “Mad Jenny” by many locals, the 84-year-old grandmother lives in a dilapidated caravan in Mulhuddart and has dedicated her life to rescuing animals.

Jenny Powell, of British descent, currently has a number of horses, dogs and goats on the land beside her home.

She moved to Blanchard-

stown nearly 40 years ago and has a 50-yearold daughter who lives in Spain and a 25-year-old granddaughter in the UK. Jenny has also lived in Cornwall, Hampshire, Gloucestershire and Wimbledon during the second World War and then in Australia and Canada.

The iconic character can often be seen with her buggy and rescue dogs around Blanchardstown Centre and gets by from her State pension and donations.

Lynda Quinn, a friend of Jenny’s, wants to raise money to buy a caravan

or mobile home for her and also to have enough left over to furnish it.

On her gofundme.com page she explains: “If you have warm bedding or other items you want to donate to her please contact me or if anyone would like to make a small donation towards getting a dry roof over her head I know she will be very grateful.

Help spread the word!”

In a Phoenix FM radio documentary, titled My Name Is Jenny, Jenny spoke about her life.

“I prefer living in a caravan as I don’t have to climb a stairs as I’m a bit lame.

Jenny spoke about her life in a Phoenix FM radio documentary

“Animals bring out the best in people. Children come up to me and love telling me about their pets.

“I would like to see my daughter and granddaughter again but I don’t have the money to do that. It costs a lot of money to put the dogs in kennels and I don’t like leaving them.

“If anything happens to me the DSPCA will take the animals. I don’t think people (nowadays) look after their animals well enough.”

Fundraisers are attempting to raise €5,000 to help Jenny and have already donated more than €2,700.

Many local residents

on Facebook have also recounted their first encounters with Jenny.

One person said: “Mine was her waiting at the bus stop in Blanchardstown village in the 80s. I was walking to school at the time and all I could see was this lady and about six little dogs and a buggy.

Always remember her very grand accent.”

You can make a donation to help Jenny at gofundme.com/urgentappealforoldwoman.

FASTNews

Dubliners could soon be electing the city’s mayor A NEW proposal could see Dublin have its first directly elected mayor within three years.

A bill has been drafted for the proposal and it is believed it could be backed by politicians.

The proposal to have a directly elected mayor of Dublin has been put forward before, but now a new bill has been drafted by Fianna Fail.

Its passing would see everyone living in the capital decide if a single person should run the county instead of the four councils.

Under the bill, the vote would be held in May 2018 and, if the idea if approved, the capital could see the first mayoral elections for Dublin the following year. The proposal is due to be discussed by the Dail later this month.

The previous government brought forward

13 October 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 5

BEAUTY PAGEANT | MODELLING CONTRACT PRIZE FOR WINNER

Country’s curviest to hit Crowne Plaza CURV YOUR ENTHUSIASM: Miss Teen Ireland 2015 and SGM model Emma Gavin, LMT model Carol Hunt and Lucy Watson, Top Model U finalist 2016, try out some outfits ahead of the black tie masquarades ball

 IAN BEGLEY A UNIQUE beauty pageant set to rival Miss Ireland is coming to Blanchardstown and will showcase some of the country’s curviest ladies.

The first of its kind, the competition will see 20 curvy models from around the country compete to win the title of Miss Curvette 2016.

Anna Waters of LMT Model World and Sharon McCarthy of Size Gorgeous Management have embarked on this ambitious venture, which will take place on Saturday, October 29 at the Crowne Plaza, Blanchardstown.

Sharon told The Gazette she hopes to make Miss Curvette an annual event.

“We’re rivalling Miss Ireland because if a girl is not a certain height or shape with them then you’re not able to take part. The youngest we have competing is 18 and the oldest is in her 50s,” she said.

“There are a lot of curvy girls out there that really want to get into modelling and we just want to try make their image more acceptable in our society.

“Girls like to relate to the models they see and if their body type is similar to theirs then they can easily imagine what the model’s clothes will look like on them.

“In fact curvy models are now being

seen in high fashion magazines and at couture runway shows. This competition will start the winner’s journey to succeed as a curvy model.”

Sharon added that a lot of her models have been bullied in the past and believes her modelling agency can help boost their confidence.

“I’m a curvy girl myself so I know what it’s like to be judged. An awful lot of my models have been bullied and when they join my modelling agency I teach them to embrace their bodies and shake off whatever insults are thrown at them.

“One of my models who is 17 told me that a young fella came up to her in school and called her ugly and she turned around and replied: ‘Well I’m a model and my agent thinks I’m gorgeous’ then walked away, leaving this chap absolutely gobsmacked.”

The crowned competition will see the winning lady and two runner ups receive a modelling contract along with a professional portfolio, with the winner also receiving a cash prize.

The theme for the night is a black tie masquerade ball.

Tickets for the event are available from eventbrite.ie until October 26 at €60pp or can be reserved in advance by contacting Anna or Sharon on the Miss Curvette 2016 Facebook Page.

FASTNews Photo Group hold exhibition

ST Brigid’s Photo Group are holding an exhibition in Blanchardstown Library from October 11 – 29, featuring images of everyday life captured by local photographers. The official launch of their Exhibition is at 8pm in Blanchardstown Library with Cllr Mags Murray to open the exhibition. St Brigid’s Photo Group has been in existence for over 16 years. The group meet every Tuesday evening at 8pm in the Parish Centre at Blanchardstown Church. If you are interested in joining the group visit www.stbrigidsphotogroup.blogspot. com, or simply come along any Tuesday at 8pm.

6 BLANCH GAZETTE 13 October 2016

GazetteGALLERY

| COOLMINE MUSICAL SOCIETY PREPARE FOR PERFORMANCE

Clare, Kate and Kim

Will Parker goes through the motions

Oh What a Beautiful night of rehearsals C

oolmine Musical Society’s rehearsals are in full swing for thier production of Oklahoma. The show takes place from Tuesday, November 8 to Saturday, November 12 nightly at 8pm in Draiocht. Oklahoma tells the story of cowboy Curly McLain and his romance with farm girl Laurey Williams. A secondary romance concerns cowboy Will Parker and his flirtatious fiancee, Ado Annie.

Laurey and Curly

We’ve got the moves

Will and Amy

Strike a pose

13 October 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 7

GazetteGALLERY

| PREMIERE SCREENING OF ANIMATION MOVIE STORKS

Gemma Munds, Mollie Munds, Jamie Flynn and Andy Mallon

Christine Ross and Caoimhe Ross

Families flock to city centre for premiere H

UNDREDS of big and little kids flocked to the Odeon Cinema at the Point Village for premiere screening of new colorful animation movie Storks. Before the screening there was plenty of entertainment laid on like face painting and balloon animals to keep the children entertained. The 3D animated adventure features an all-star cast including Andy Samberg, Kelsey Grammer and Jennifer Aniston.

Ava Spillane and Clare Sheedy

Jamie Reilly, Kyle Fogarty and Mikie Reilly

8 BLANCH GAZETTE 13 October 2016

Capturing some of the essence of life in Dublin

THE Gazette is always happy to feature photos from our readers – indeed, we’re looking out for more of your shots (see right) – and we were very impressed with the work of Naas Photography Club. Its members have taken some terrific shots that really capture the essence of life in the capital city, and its surrounding areas.

Picture: Paul O’Rourke

We want to see YOUR work!

CALLING all snappers! Whether you’re a member of a camera club, a have-a-go photographer, or have a terrific photo or three on your phone or tablet to share, we’d love to share your shot with our readers!

If you’d like your photo (or photos) to appear in the paper, or to be shared on our social media, email it/them to picturedesk@dublingazette.com.

Pictures: Tom Horan

Don’t forget to get the permission of whoever is in your shot(s), and we’ll also need to know Who, What, Why and Where, if relevant. Good luck, and get snapping!

COURTS | CHARGES INCLUDE FIREARM POSSESSION

Blanch man in court over foiled robbery A MAN from Blanchardstown was among the three males charged in connection to an alleged cash-in-transit van robbery foiled by gardai in County Meath last week.

Damien Noonan (30) of Rusheeny Court in Hartstown, Stefan Saunders (39) of Hazel Park in Clonee and Francis Murphy (37) of Drogheda Rd, Carranstown appeared at a special sitting of Trim District Court on Sunday, October 9 following their arrests the day before.

The charges include possession of a Makarov 8mm firearm with eight rounds of ammunition with intent to commit a robbery.

They were also charged with possession of a crowbar, walkie talkies and a black rucksack which contained cable ties, a bottle of bleach and a key for security shutters with intent to

be used in a robbery.

Detective Garda Jonathon O’Leary gave evidence of arrest, charge and caution for Mr Saunders.

He said Mr Saunders made no reply when charged in Blanchardstown.

Objected Gardai objected to bail due to the seriousness of the charges, which carry sentences of up to 14 years.

After a lengthy bail hearing Judge Grainne Malone granted Mr Saunders “substantial bail” of his own bond of €30,000, of which €10,000 must be lodged, and two independent sureties of €50,000 of which €10,000 of each must be lodged.

Detective Garda Brian McDermott also gave evidence of arrest, charge and caution for Mr Mur-

phy in Finglas.

Judge Malone refused bail.

Mr Murphy was remanded in custody to Cloverhill Prison and will appear in court again on Friday, October 14 when his barrister, Seamus Clarke BL, said he will make an application for legal aid.

D e t e c t i ve G a r d a D e cl a n Maloney gave evidence of arrest, charge and caution for Mr Noonan.

He told the court Mr Noonan was arrested in Finglas at 12.46pm on October 9 and made no reply when charged.

Judge Malone also refused Mr Noonan bail and remanded him in custody to Cloverhill Prison to appear in court on Friday, October 13.

His lawyer, Mr Clarke, said he will also be making a legal application for Nr Noonan on Friday.

13 October 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 9

INVESTIGATION | DELIGHT AT DECISION TO RESUME EXCAVATION INTO TUAM ASYLUM

‘State must do right by the people’  IAN BEGLEY SURVIVORS of the St Patrick’s Institution, Navan Road, have expressed their delight over a decision to reopen the investigation into the Tuam Mother and Baby home.

T he excavation in Galway was ordered by the Mother and Baby Home Commission of Investigation to start on October 1 and will last for five weeks.

The site at the former Bon Secours Mother and Baby Home came to light in 2014 after it was alleged that as many as 796 bodies were buried there.

Members of the United Sur vivors Group have now come together to help highlight the institutional abuse that occurred in these homes.

Te r r i H a r r i s o n , a

former inmate of two mother and baby institutions (Bessborrow, Co Cork and St Patricks) said she believes that no one in Ireland ever wanted to know what went on behind their walls.

“The many females who braved their sentences for the crime of being life givers were silenced in this country for so many years.

“Terms like ‘Homes’ are used to describe places that stole identities, sold babies and children, forced females t o wo r k h a r d , a n d deprived people of their basic human rights.”

Terri added that residents of mother and baby institutions were often told that their babies had passed away with no medical proof.

“Our pressure group United Survivors will n ow c h a l l e n g e t h e

w rongs of the past.

I a n d m a ny o f t h e females in our group are still hoping to hold our adult child once again.

“Some are still waiting to have their deceased child laid to rest in a proper State run cemetery like any other Irish person,” she said.

David K insella, another survivor of St Patrick’s Intuition said he is delighted that the commission decided to resume their excavation into the Tuam asylum.

“I trust if more intuitions need to be excavated the commission will do so rightly. In the meantime, as our group makes further progress we look for ward to meeting with the commission and Minister Katherine Zappone,” he said.

Clondalkin Cllr Francis Timmons, a survivor

Public asked to Paint it Pink for Irish Cancer Society

AS the number of breast cancer cases increases by 33%, model Roz Purcell is calling on members of the public to Paint it Pink this October as she launches the Irish Cancer Society’s campaign to support people affected by breast cancer in Ireland. Paint it Pink calls on members of the public to host a pink coffee morning or event this October and fight back against breast cancer by raising funds to support the Society’s work funding vital research, advocacy and services for those affected by breast cancer. Roz is pictured with Breast Predict researcher Lisa Dwane from Dublin whose research focuses on hormone driven breast cancer. Visit www.paintitpink.ie or call 1850 60 60 60 for fundraising ideas and information on breast cancer. Donate by texting Pink to 50300 to give €4 to the Irish Cancer Society. The funds will go to supporting the Society’s vital research, advocacy and services for those affected by breast cancer. Picture: Andres Poveda

of State care in Madonn a Ho u s e , D u b l i n , admitted he also suffered from sexual abuse while in foster care.

“Both [Madonna House and foster care] have affected my life and I ask for the Minister and the commission and indeed all of our elected representatives to listen to the survivors and the woman who

did nothing wrong. The Church and State must do right by the thousands of people they let down,” he said.

Saint Patrick’s Institution was by far the largest of the nine Mother and Baby homes in terms of the numbers who passed through and approximately 9,000 to 12,000 women and girls went

through its doors.

It was also a massive holding centre for unaccompanied babies and children. It was certified for 149 beds for unmarried mothers and 560 cots/beds for babies and children.

Burial Babies and children who passed away were sent for burial to the

national Angel’s Plot in Glasnevin Cemetery in north Dublin.

There are two periods when exact numbers of deaths are known and rough estimates from other years would indicate that at least 2,000 a n d p o s s i b l y a b ove 3,000 babies and children died during its 81 years of operation on the Navan Road.

10 GAZETTE 13 October 2016

GazetteGALLERY

| IFTA GALA TELEVISION AWARDS AT THE DOUBLETREE

Telly stars come out to paint the Browns red Brendan O’Connor with the cast of Mrs Brown’s Boys. Pictures: Michael Chester

UTV news anchor Alison Comyn at the reddy

M

RS BROWN’S Boys creator Brendan O’Carroll was star of the show at the IFTAs on Friday night.

The Finglas funnyman picked up the gong for Best Male Performance in Soap/Comedy for his role as Ireland’s best known female, Agnes Brown. Another comedian, Al Porter, scooped the Rising Talent award.

The red carpet was rolled out early with stars including Miriam O’Callaghan, Karen Coster, Samantha Mumba and Alison Comyn suitably dressed to impress at the glitzy bash in the plush DoubleTree Hilton in Ballsbridge. Accepting his award, Brendan quipped: “It just goes to show that cross-dressing can work!”

Baz Ashmawy and his mum Nancy

Julian Okines with Amanda Byram

Louise Ni Chonchuir with Steve Quinn

Kevin McGahern & Siobhan Cassidy

Television presenter Karen Koster

13 October 2016 GAZETTE 11

HILTON HOTEL

Model and singer Nadia Forde

Samantha looks stunning in scarlet

Jeanne Marine with hubby Bob Geldof

TELL US YOUR NEWS

Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email news@dublingazette.com

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12 GAZETTE 13 October 2016

DUBLINBUSINESS

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Their innovative products include private offices, open spaces for collaboration, conference and training facilities, co-working and virtual office services available by the hour, day or week.

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Whether growing or reducing your business, they enable you to pay for the space you use and on top of that they remove the overheads from your balance sheets with an all-inclusive monthly invoice saving up to 60% on costs.

They even take care of all the office headaches such as cleaning services, building insurance, utilities and receptionists.

Visit Regus.ie or contact Regus today on 01 402 9401 to learn more about how to save costs on your office space.

Hospitality sector calls for greater action over Brexit  IAN BEGLEY

T H E S u p p o r t Yo u r Local campaign, backed by publicans, restaurants, hotels, independent off-licences and drinks suppliers, has described sterling’s plunge to a 31-year-low following Brexit uncertainty as a major challenge, and has called on the Government to support the industry and reduce excise duties in Budget 2017.

The hospitality sector in Ireland is a vital employer in every town and county, employing more than 204,000 people, creating a combined wage bill of €4.3 billion.

Donall O’Keeffe, chief executive of the Licensed Vintners Association (LVA), said that “the uncertainty around Brexit and the devaluation of sterling is a real challenge for the industry”.

He added: “We are calling on Minister Noonan to cut excise in Budget 2017 next week as it is a major tax on jobs, tourism and consumers in a time of increasing economic uncertainty.”

Adrian Cummins, chief executive of the Restaurants Association of Ireland, said: “Ireland was 19% more expensive between Jan and Oct of 2016 due to sterling’s

devaluation.

“T he combination of high excise and the uncertainty over Brexit has caused the perfect storm for the hospitality industry.

“Our high prices are driven primarily by our high excise levels, and an excise reduction of 15% would stimulate employment, help to prevent cross-Border shopping and maintain some degree of attractiveness for UK tourists.

“In a recent poll, our members reported an average of 12% downturn for British tourists’ spend for July and August compared to the same time in 2015.”

John Phelan, national director of Halo Business Angel Network, with ‘business angels’ Conor Kinsella and Colm Healy. The network aims to raise €2m in Dublin as part of a nationwide campaign to secure €6m.

FINANCING | HALO STRATEGY AIMS TO RAISE €6M

Roadshow in drive to find angel investors  IAN BEGLEY

THE Halo Business Angel Network (HBAN), is aiming to raise funds of €2 million in Dublin over a 48-hour period as part of a nationwide drive to recruit more business angel investors.

As well as Dublin, HBAN will visit Cork, Galway and Waterford for its “business angel” roadshow and aims to sign up a total of 27 investors with combined funds

of €6 million.

The roadshow will also see 12 companies pitch for investment from existing business angels. Combined, the companies are seeking more than €10 million in funding.

During the roadshow, which can be attended by pre-registered members of the public and potential angels, HBAN will share information on what is required to become a successful business angel investor.

It will also provide the opportunity for prospective angels to network with HBAN’s existing angels.

The roadshow will also give 12 start-ups the chance to pitch to current business angels, as well as angel syndicates, for their investment and expertise.

Business angels are ty pically successful entrepreneurs from the industry in which they are investing.

Hoping to take start-up plans to Web Summit  EMMA NOLAN

FOUR Dublin entrepreneurs have all been shortlisted on a list of 12 Irish start-ups who are in with a chance of winning the coveted ESB Spark of Genius Award at this year’s Web Summit in Lisbon.

Theresa Quick (right) of Fillit Space, Dervan Hughes of Buymie Technologies, Joe Borza of EnergyElephant and James McElroy of HouseMyDog will

all be hoping to be selected as one of three finalists to head to Lisbon.

The ESB Spark of Genius Award provides a platform for high-potential technology start-ups who have been in operation for less than three years and have received under €1 million in funding.

Entrants are judged on their idea’s uniqueness, their level of development thus far, and their potential for future growth.

Many Irish start-ups are attracted to business angel investment because it provides them not just with much-needed capital, but also the expertise, domain knowledge and network of contacts that each angel brings to the table.

This strategic support can help companies grow and ultimately, scale.

For more information and to register for your nearest roadshow, visit www.hban.org.

13 October 2016 GAZETTE 13

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SHY OSCAR WILL MAKE YOUR HOME COMPLETE

Al Porter relaxes ahead of taking to the stage for another hilarious evening of anecdotes and Dublin-centric humour

COMEDY: HOW ORDINARY DUBLIN LIFE SHAPED RISING COMIC’S ROUTINES

It’ll be Al right on the night  EMMA NOLAN

THE Gazette caught up with the hilarious Al Porter just as he is about to embark on his biggest Irish tour yet.

“The thing is, I do do the big shows, like Vicar Street and Cork Opera House, with a big band and everything, but the good thing about doing shows in the likes of The Mill Theatre and The Pavilion is that because they’re slightly smaller venues, you can have the craic more with the audience,” he said.

Al films his live performances in smaller venues where “literally anything can happen”. “At one of the smaller shows, me and Sil Fox ended up doing a duet of Bring Me Sunshine just for the

craic, and at a show in Longford, I just decided to get members of the audience up to march around the theatre and then made them leave.

Al says the main difference between performing at bigger and smaller venues is that with big ones he may have to keep an audience of hundreds or thousands of people entertained, but with the smaller ones, it’s just a few people out for a good night.

“There’s a lot of potential to improvise and interact with the audience – mainly because I can actually see them!

“Even just at a practical level, it’s easier to see them, because the lights are blinding in Vicar Street, whereas in The Mill in Dundrum, I can actually see the

faces in the audience.”

The “great characters” at his shoes are a great source of comedy for Al. “There was an elderly woman at this show a while ago who was a sacrist in the local church, and she just came to see what it was about. I told her: ‘I don’t think you’re going to enjoy this, Mary’, but she ended up having to – there is something for everyone in the show.”

Al appeals to all ages, from around 16 to 80, he says. As for his very Dublincentric humour, Al says that despite the colloquialisms, his themes are universal and have been really well received abroad.

“Even though I’m very Irish, and I’m always talking about Dublin and Tal-

laght, my English and Scottish audiences get it because everyone knows what a council estate is, and relationships are universal too. That’s the thing about my show, I’m just being honest about my relationships, family and even what it’s like to grow up gay.

As for his hilarious renditions of various different Dublin accents and mannerisms, Al says that he just writes what he knows. “I’m not a good actor – I was cut from Love/Hate for playing Nidge’s gay cousin, Nudge, and when I auditioned for James Bond, they said I was too camp and more ooh7 than 007.”

Al’s tour of Ireland started last weekend and tickets are available at ticketmaster.ie.

THE Gazette has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs.

Our dog of the week is Oscar, a six-year-old male crossbreed who adores his carers and just loves to play fetch.

Despite his size, he’s very shy and takes some time to get to know and trust new people. Oscar is looking for an adult-only home, preferably with just one person as he isn’t too keen to share his favourite person.

His adopters will need to be committed to following the advice of our behaviour and training team to help Oscar settle in to his new life.

Please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000 if you can give Oscar the home he so deserves.

They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www. dogstrust.ie.

You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @ DogsTrust_IE.

GAZETTE

14 GAZETTE 13 October 2016

DUBLINLIFE

FEATURE

SSE AIRTRICITY DUBLIN MARATHON : EVENT HAS EVOLVED AFTER ALMOST FORTY YEARS

Excitement levels running high for Dublin Marathon  IAN BEGLEY

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OVER 280,000* READERS EACH WEEK *Publishers statement

CALL 01 60 10 240

THE feeling of completing a marathon is second to none.

Discover exactly what it’s like, this October 30, when the SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon takes over the city with its start and finish lines situated in the heart of Dublin City.

This single lap takes you all around Dublin as you run next to world-class athletes.

2016 sees the SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon moved to a Sunday to encourage more international runners to take part.

With a record number of 15,216 participants, comprised of almost 4,500 people representing 62 different nationalities and 10,800 Irish, taking to the start line in 2015, 2016 promises to be even bigger and better.

Running for almost forty years now, the SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon has evolved into a movement with its training runs, expos and many other events taking place on the lead up to the big day in October.

Over 19,000 people took part in the SSE Airtricity Dublin Race Series last year, and over 14,600 runners, joggers and walkers entered the SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon.

The marathon route will follow the same course as the previous marathon in 2014 where changes

had to be made due to the Luas works in Dublin City Centre.

The route will start on Fitzwilliam Square and end at Merrion Square as per recent years, but it will run along St Stephens Green towards Meath Street, Lord Edward Street and Parliament Street, taking in City Hall and Dublin Castle – two well-known Dublin landmarks – before entering the quays and moving towards the Phoenix Park.

Last year’s race finish from Mount Street Lower towards Merrion Square proved a success with the runners and spectators so it remains the same for 2016.

Last year, Kenyan Eliud Too was a surprise winner of the overall title with a time of 2:14:47 while defending champion Maria McCambridge lost out by four seconds to Esther Wanjiru Macharia of Kenya who crossed the line in a great time of 2:34:15.

“As the leading marathon in Ireland, we are continuing to improve the standard of marathon running in this country while also increasing participation rates,” race director Jim Aughney said this week.

“This year, the SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon is one of two major events announced as part of the new initiative to attract members of the diaspora to participate, with numerous networking events being organised in the

lead up to our races.

“Additionally, we are also delighted to welcome Asics on board for the next two years. It is a great boost for the event and we are grateful for their support.”

For more information or to register for any of the events, visit the SSE Airtricity Dublin Marathon website at www.sseairtricitydublinmarathon.ie and stay in touch on Facebook/DublinMarathon or @dublinmarathon

Kenyan Eliud Too won the event last year

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13 October 2016 GAZETTE 15

DUBLINLIFE

DIARY

ALONE urges elderly to ask for help A L O N E , t h e c h a rity that supports older people to age at home, is urging older people who may be feeling lonely or isolated not to be afraid to ask for the help and support they need and deserve.

Sean Moynihan, chief executive of ALONE said: “We are asking all older people not to be afraid to ask for help if they are feeling isolated or lonely.

“It is ver y easy to become cut off from your local community.

However, there are supports and services available that can help link you back in with your community and neighbours.”

ALONE is also call-

ing on all members of the public to check in with their older neighbours who may be living alone and to consider their needs.

ALONE can be contacted on (01) 679 1032 for those who have concerns about their own wellbeing, or the wellbeing of a vulnerable older person in the community or visit www.alone.ie.

HELPING CHILDREN TO RISE AND SHINE THIS year’s Cheerios Childline Breakfast takes place from October 17 to 23, when people around Ireland are encouraged to host or attend a breakfast in aid of Childline, or make a donation by text.

As Ireland’s only

24-hour service for Children, ISPCC Childline believes that every child, every morning, deserves to Rise and Shine.

Funds raised through Cheerios Childline Breakfast helps Childline ensure it is there for children, every day – and night.

Childline answers over 1,000 calls from children all over Ireland, every single day, and night.

Children call Childline to talk about everything from everyday troubles to major life issues, with thousands of calls every year from children experiencing issues such as loneliness, isolation, bullying, distress and abuse.

To be part of Cheerios Childline Breakfast visit

www.childlinebreakfast. ie, call 1850 50 40 50 or email breakfast@ispcc.ie.

Donations can be made by simply texting Rise to 50300.

HONOURING ROLE GRANDPARENTS PLAY GR ANDCHILDREN throughout Dublin are being encouraged to nominate their grandparents for the Specsavers Grandparent of the Year Award in association with Third Age. Legendar y broad caster and grandfather of 13, Micheal O Muirchear taigh, recently launched the nationwide search for Ireland’s most exceptional grandparent.

The award celebrates

and recognises the extraordinary contribution that grandparents make to the lives of grandchildren and the community.

Speaking at the launch, Specsavers store director Seamus Breslin said: “We are excited to launch the Grandparent of the Year Award, which recognises the many benefits of an ageing population and the special role that grandparents play in Irish families.

“It is a fantastic opportunity for younger generations to recognise the many ways that grandparents and older people enrich our lives and I would encourage grandchildren across Dublin to nominate today to

give their grandparent the recognition they deserve.”

Grandchildren of all ages can nominate their grandparents by fill-

ing out an entry form in any Specsavers store throughout Dublin or online at www.specsavers.ie/hearing/grandparent.

Micheal O Muircheartaigh, with Matilda Byrne and Tristan Bruen, launched the Specsavers Grandparent of the Year Award. Picture: Leon Farrell / Photocall Ireland

13 October 2016 GAZETTE 17

DUBLINLIFE  MIRIAM DOONA

Mick Flannery was looking for a job at the tender age of fifteen and under the council of his father opted to pursue the art of stonemasonry in lieu of working in a bar.

A SUCCESSFUL music career ensued and has since evolved and sees him releasing his fifth studio album I Own You on October 14. After a recent chat with the Blarney native, I discovered his ritual of

drinking two pints before going on stage and what first sparked his interest in music was family and elaborating that it was genetics.

“I suppose, my mother and her family

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were singers. The ability to sing helps. My mother’s family informed me of a lot of American music, a lot of Johnny Cash and Joni Mitchell and then I got more into Bob Dylan and Tom Waits after that.”

When asked about the animal reference in the song and indeed the album cover, Flannery explained: “The animal reference is about the rage. It’s a primal feeling, I suppose. It would be the bucking against the control down to the actual control of

the physical self, down to you losing your agency. The song is the mixture of the social inequality.

“The idea of I own you is the master/ slave scenario of capitalist society and the song attempts to reverse the role. The slave takes back his agency through violence.”

There is further references to animal imagery in the album. There is a song that tries to understand the psychopath,

the 1% man. The man that rationalises and compartmentalises his own feelings, because he maintains that we are just animals and nothing matters; why should there be the top gorilla?

Further observation that there is a lot of rage in the song and inquiring that if an event in April 2015[The murder of Freddie Gray and The Baltimore riots] was a big inspiration for the song and the album.

Of which, he explained: “It would have

WIN

The Dublin Gazette is giving away a copy of Mick’s new album AND a pair of tickets to his October 22 Olympia gig!

We have three sets to give away – to enter just visit our Facebook page

Breaking into the “rich man’s” house Janet bounces back from X-Factor exit

 SYLVIA POWNALL

SINGER Janet Grogan has bounced back from her X-Factor rejection by releasing a cover of Sia’s Elastic Heart.

The video went live on YouTube at the weekend and has already racked up 6,000 views online.

Janet, 26, told fans: “I have made a new video of a song extremely close to my heart and very relevant to how I feel right now. Thank you for all your support… and thank you for sticking with me.”

Janet – who was axed from X-Fac-

tor at the Six Chairs Challenge by Simon Cowell in 2014 – suffered another heartbreaking rejection this year when Sharon Osbourne dumped her at Judges’ Houses in favour of controversial act Honey G. But Janet, from Kingswood in Tallaght, has vowed not to let the double blow end her singing career.

After being shown the door Janet posted a short message on Instagram in which she assured followers they hadn’t seen the last of her.

She said: “Obviously it’s not entirely the outcome I would have

fed into the song. There are people in the world powerless and undignified and disadvantaged. A good example of that would be a black person in America. The rage of someone exercising an assumed right over you. For me, I don’t like being touched, being grabbed; it naturally makes me want to buck against that.

“An exaggerated example of that is the existing reality is what is happening between the police and black people in America. Someone can be without reason, without charge and taken from the street and murdered.

“And there be no charge after that. If that had happened to someone in my family, I can’t imagine the extent of the rage I would feel. It would by far amplify the rage I feel just by being touched.”

This subsequently prompted the question whether he had particular interest in US politics having spent time there and in particular his thoughts regarding the upcoming run for presidency.

“Well, it’s hard not to be interested. In smaller capitalist societies like ours, their companies come in and hold us to ransom, their airplanes come in and land on the way to wars.

“It’s hard not to be interested because you would think that should they change their ways for the better, surely it would be of huge benefit to the world.”

Regarding the upcoming elections, Flannery expressed, it’s like a real cartoon, like a computer game. It’s a bad experiment. It’s hard not to think that politicians aren’t the ones running the show and they are involved in such entertainment; name-calling and horseshit, it’s hard to believe they actually mean anything.”

The video and the concept behind the song and title track of the album I Own You was the next topic of conversation and he said he wanted to basically portray the man himself, the slave kind of making his way into the rich man’s house and in the end the video portrays the house, the idea that one man eats the same meal as

hoped for but all the support and love and everything through my whole journey has been amazing.

“So thank you for all that – and I’m not going anywhere so stay tuned.”

Her stripped back Sia cover is filmed, directed and edited by Ian James White who also plays piano on the track.

Comeback queen Janet said: “This is the type of performance I would have brought forward for the lives (on X-Factor) and I had an epiphany that just because I didn’t progress on one platform, it

fifty people, in a reflection of the capitalist society.

Asked if he feels he is evolving and becoming more aware with age and therefore impacting his writing and his work, he explained: “Yes it is as much as the world impacts me, as much as information is available to me. It seems to me that people are, generally speaking, very much self-involved in their twenties.

“They are young and beautiful, look-

travelling aspect of your job, I asked, with the response There is a Difference in a home crowd in Cork. Different nationalities have different attitudes, I suppose.

German and Danish audiences have a very resolved way of appreciating something, some of them even coordinate their clapping and it comes into unison after about ten claps and then it stops and at the end of the gig is when they will allow themselves to show appreciation. Irish

ing for maybe relationships and worrying about themselves and how they are perceived, and not comfortable in themselves, perhaps. So, once you overcome that, you maybe become less anxious about how you are perceived.

“Maybe it’s because you are coming more into the stage of life where you are beginning to think about starting a family, settling down and worry about what life will be like and your children’s lives will be like. “ And, when you get older again you begin to care about everything less again and become happy with your lot.”

As you are about to embark on a tour home and in Europe do you find differences in audiences and do you enjoy the

audiences are a little bit more dramatic.”

Alluding to his inspirations and creative triggers and asking if he was a big reader, Mick explained: “I’m not as big a reader as I would like to be. Lately I have been a bit lazy and prefer to watch lectures on YouTube.

“I try to educate myself as best I can and there is a need in me that tries not to influence myself too much, in order that I can have originality when I speak.

“There is a man called Alain de Botton and he runs a nice website called The School of Life. It can present things in quite a compact way and little anecdotes can be portrayed in energies as opposed to hunkering overtext.

“Humans are not good at accepting a

shouldn’t stop me from sharing my voice.

“I won’t stop because I got thick skin and an elastic heart. Thank you for all the support… enjoy and share if you dig it.”

It’s unlikely that Janet will take up an offer from fellow X Factor reject Christopher Peyton who last week suggested she form a group with him, James Wilson and Samantha Atkinson and audition for the show again next year.

See Janet’s video at https://www. youtube.com/watch?v=dW1Y0z4U Pv8&feature=youtu.be

lot of knowledge and with regards technology, we don’t know how it works and just accept it. A lot of us are becoming completely incapable of knowing which way is North, South, East or West.

“We don’t listen to our elders, we want to see it for ourselves in a kind of selfish my life is my life way and how dare you minister to me, like I have my own unique experience.

“The voice we hear for our phones is not the voice of a caring elder. In my experience, I find hangovers very useful creatively, as you are in a very sensitive state….. often I just sit at a bar on my own and spy and eavesdrop and observe. I don’t like to sit in a room on my own for too long.”

Finally, posing the question about how he would like 2017 to transpire, both personally and socially, he said: “Somehow religion becomes obsolete and Bernie Sanders becomes American president.

Clinton and Trump commit suicide.

“A lot of people when you ask them what age you would like to have been born in a lot of artists say the 60s and revolution and all that, but I would say two or three hundred years or however long it takes for when religion has no impact on human thinking anymore, God willing, because I can see no use for it. It poisons everything.

“Like the quote says, it’s like a leftover from the infancy of our intelligence and has to be replaced with rationality and reason. It’s similar to racism in a way, if we shut the f**k up about it, it will disappear but unfortunately we can’t do it, it’s not that simple.

“I like to think that I would be messing around with creativity because it keeps me company, but I know my gestation period seems to be about two year stretches, It kind of goes from one song to the next. One thing I need to do is not have my phone on me so much, I go through a lot of philosophy posts on Facebook. It’s just a distraction, like, all the news repeats itself.

Janet’s new video went live on YouTube at the weekend and has already racked up 6,000 views online

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18 GAZETTE 13 October 2016

DUBLINLIFE Topshop Velvet panel body €36

M&S Per Una velvet jacket €109

Penneys Lace trim jumpsuit €18

Littlewoods Floral blouse €49.50

Little stars take over Arnotts for fun fashion days  EMMA NOLAN

LAST weekend (October 8 and 9), Arnotts was transformed into a wonderland for a children’s weekend.

Children from all across Dublin turned up in fancy dress, following the themes of Princess and Superhero on Saturday, with a Fairy theme taking over on Sunday.

The highlight of the weekend were the kids-only fashion shows.

Four high-energy fashion shows took place over the weekend, where 60 young stars took to the catwalk to showcase brands from the Arnotts childrenswear on offer.

Before each show, guests enjoyed some amazing performances from the talented kids at the Leah Moran Stage School.

Visit the children’s department at Arnotts to see the latest collection.

Topshop High neck peplum top

River Island Pink slip €28

Billie Bandit red hoodie sweatshirt €44.50

Billie Blush leopard print raincoat €50

Billie Bandit khaki coat €95

Billie Blush tulle skirt €45.50

Miss Selfridge Faux-fur cropped jacket

Topshop Longline slouch coat €110

13 October 2016 GAZETTE 19

Topshop Biker jacket

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STYLE Nike Womens Pro Hypercool Top €35

River Island Pom pom hat €12

 EMMA NOLAN

New Look Pom pom hat €8

“

Topshop Ruffle jumper €57

WEDNESDAYS WE WEAR PINK

ON

 EMMA NOLAN

Style Editor

ONE colour is definitely taking over this season – yes, the days may be darker, but our wardrobes are getting ohso-brighter, thanks to pink!

Love it or hate it, it’s the sartorial hue

KEEPING it pink, Lifestyle Sports have a delightful offering of pink sportswear in store now.

Nothing gets you into the gym or out for a run faster than new sportswear. A pair of their Nike Free Runs in pink are a particular favourite, as well as the Ellesse printed leggings.

Ellesse printed leggings €36

Jansport bagpack €50

.

of choice right now.

From dusty to carnation, rose to salmon and cerise to touches of magenta – pink is on the agenda.

For those who have always shied away from the colour as a symbol of childhoodenforced gender segregation and stereotypes,

this new pink feeling is nothing to fear – introduce it slowly with a simple accent piece; a pale pink fur stole worn over an oversized grey masculine coat, or a pink silk blouse paired with some smart pants.

Designers such as Christopher Kane and Jonathan Saunders

have given the colour a freshness that has transcended the runways to the high street.

So it isn’t all Barbie dolls and Regina George, and once you realise that pink can

.

.

become sophisticated, Wednesday won’t be the only day you’ll be tickled pink.

Topshop Satin puffa jacket €155

New Look Velvet longsleeve turtleneck top €18 Miss Selfridge Deep-V rouched body

”

Nike Free Runs €130 Ellesse pink vest €26

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20 GAZETTE 13 October 2016

DUBLINLIFE

fast

TRAVEL NEWS

Glen Mowat, of the Lough Erne Resort, and Glenn Monahan, of Tourism Northern Ireland, are encouraging visitors to Say Hello to More in Northern Ireland by enjoying a great golf and spa break this autumn

Enjoy a fun tee-time holiday in the North NORTHERN Ireland is home to some of the most successful majorwinning golfers in the world, including stars such as Darren Clarke, Rory McIlroy and Graeme McDowell, who all honed their considerable skills on courses in Northern Ireland.

Tourism Northern Ireland has outlined some of the best spots around Northern Ireland to try for a golf and spa autumn break ...

Lough Erne Golf Resort, Co Fermanagh The multi-award winning Lough Erne Resort is a luxurious five-star hotel nestled on a 600 acres peninsula with spectacular views of Lough Erne, and home to two championship golf courses – The Faldo Course, designed by sixtime Major champion Nick Faldo, and Castle Hume Golf Course.

Book an autumn break away and stay at the Lough Erne Golf Resort from €99 per night.

Galgorm Resort & Spa, Co Antrim Set in 163 acres of lush parkland and with

the spectacular River Maine flowing through the estate, the four-star Galgorm Resort & Spa is a truly unique and beautiful setting.

Enjoy a destination deluxe package at Galgorm Resort & Spa this Autumn from €98 per person sharing.

Roe Park Resort, Derry Set amidst the beautiful surroundings of the Roe Valley County Park, the four-star Roe Park Resort is one of Northern Ireland’s premier golf and spa resorts.

Enjoy a golf and spa experience at the Roe Park Resort in Limavady from €270.

Portstewart Golf Club, Portstewart Situated on Northern Ireland’s magnificent Causeway Coast, Portstewart Golf Club is indisputably the jewel in Portstewart’s crown for both quality of game and scenery.

The course offers stunning views at every turn of the Donegal hills, the Atlantic and the River Bann.

For further details on all of these packages, see www.sayhellotomore.ie.

O

Oktoberfest is such an important part of Munich’s identity and economy that several purpose-built ‘tents’ have been built for the festival

ktoberfest

 IAN BEGLEY

Travel Editor

GOING to Oktoberfest in Munich was something that was always on the front page of my bucket list.

Every September, I found myself holding it off for one reason or another, but this year I decided enough was enough and spontaneously booked a return ticket to the Bavarian capital.

For those who don’t know, Oktoberfest is the world’s largest beer fest and travelling funfair.

Held annually from midSeptember to the first weekend in October, the festival attracts more than six million people from

Soak in the sights on a journey to Munich

around the world each year.

During the event, approximately 7.7 million litres of beer are consumed – a fact that made me want to go so much!

Visitors also enjoy numerous attractions, such as amusement rides, side stalls and games.

There are also a wide variety of traditional foods and Bavarian delicacies on offer.

Many hotels and hostels take advantage of the additional visitors to their city and raise their prices accordingly. Luckily for me, my friend, Sam, who moved to Munich last year, kindly offered to put me up for five days in his apartment.

Upon arriving, the first thing on my checklist was to buy lederhosen, which are essentially leather breeches based on the traditional clothing of Alpine peasants.

If you wore this extrovert outfit anywhere else on the planet, you would be seen as the German equivalent of Crocodile Dundee, but during Munich’s Oktoberfest some 80% of men wear them.

Traditional Girls, on the other hand, wear traditional dresses called dirndls, which are extremely flattering and very pleasing to the eye. Lederhosen can cost up to €200, but since

I was only spending a few days in Munich I decided to buy a second-hand one for just €50, which was in excellent condition.

We were all up bright and early the following day to ensure that we wouldn’t miss out on a table in one of the 14 beer tents. I use the word “tent” very loosely, because they’re nothing of the sort.

In fact, these shelters are huge purpose-built structures, beautifully decorated inside and out, and capable of accommodating hundreds of people at a time.

With a full day of drinking, eating and enjoying the festivities ahead of us, we arrived at the Winzer-

er-tent at approximately 9am.

It was very easy to find a table at this hour, which came as a big surprise to my friend.

Apparently, there was a significant decline in the number of people at the fest compared to last year, which was most likely due to the spate of terrorist attacks across Europe this year.

Although the threat of an attack was never too far away from my mind, I was very reassured by the large and increased number of security guards present.

When the waiter arrived at our table, I asked for a litre-sized glass of beer (€10.50) and

13 October 2016 GAZETTE 21

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TRAVEL fast

TRAVEL NEWS The giant statue personifying the Bavarian homeland is just one of the city’s many gems on the tourist trail, with the city’s rich heritage giving it an unforgettable character

Lots of schools from across the city have already entered their class photo to win a Camino trip

Another impressive Oktoberfest ‘tent’

Sam Malone and Ian Begley dressed for the part at Oktoberfest

MUNICH’S MANY CHARMS

Traditional Bavarian clothing, large beer steins, and a great atmosphere are all key parts of the Oktoberfest festival experience

a giant Bavarian pretzel.

I was surprised at how refreshing and easy to drink the beer was, but I knew I had to be very careful with the amount I drank.

The last thing I wanted to be was an Irish stereotype, intoxicated and blaring out Christy Moore ballads before lunchtime.

The salty pretzels greatly complemented the beer and were no doubt a life saver when it came to keeping me on my feet (you can buy miniature ones in Lidl for only 40c).

Crowds started pour-

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

‘The atmosphere in each of the tents I visited was like nothing I’ve ever experienced. With nearly everyone dressed in traditional German attire, it seemed as if I had stepped into a bygone era.’

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

ing into the giant tents once the afternoon came around, and although we were all nicely settled at our table, I decided to go for a wander.

The dynamic atmosphere in each of the tents

I visited was like nothing I’ve ever experienced.

Thousands of people were standing up on tables swinging their beer glasses harmoniously to live music.

With nearly everyone

Munich was almost completely destroyed in two world wars, yet it has managed to recreate much of its folkloric, Bavarian past. Of course, its Oktoberfest is legendary, but you can visit the Hofbrauhaus any time of year if you’re a beer enthusiast.

One of the main reasons that many visitors come to Munich is the world-famous Oktoberfest, but the city offers so much more to discover – both in winter and in summer – including its charming historical centre, the beautiful green areas, and many art galleries.

As home to one of the biggest automobile companies in the world, Munich is also a destination of choice for many car and technology lovers. dressed in traditional German attire, it seemed as if I had stepped into a bygone, almost enchanted era.

Back at my table, I decided to order the Weißwurst (a white sausage), along with the famous Hendl (roast chicken), which was by far my favourite thing I ate while in Germany.

With two litre-sized glasses of beer drank already, we decided to join the mob of cosmopolitans on the tables and attempt to sing along to German songs we’ve

never heard of before.

This continued until about 6pm, when we decided to call it a day – call us lightweights, if you will.

The following few days of my Oktoberfest adventure were filled with just as much fun as the first, and despite having a very sore head on my return home, I’m seriously considering making it a yearly tradition for me.

Many thanks to Sam, Emily and Michael for putting up with me. They haven’t seen the last of me yet!

One lucky class will win a free trip to the Camino de Santiago DUBLIN travel company FollowtheCamino. com are giving secondary school students the chance to win a life-changing trip to the magical Camino de Santiago in Spain.

To be in with a chance to win a weeklong walking tour along the historic Way of St James – with everything from accomodation to all meals provided – all you have to do is take a photo of your class, send it to Follow the Camino and then get liking and sharing on Facebook.

The competition is open to secondary schools, with a trip for 20 students and two teachers up for grabs.

To enter your class, take a class photo with the the website’s Follow The Camino calendar.

T hen email EduCamino@FollowThe-

Camino.com with the class photo to be uploaded to the Follow the Camino Facebook page. Finally, just wait to see the winner – the class photo with the most likes, comments and shares wins!

The “EduCamino” was launched in 2013 as a way to get students and schools involved with the popular walking and pilgrimage route, with a focus on the last 100km of the Camino de Santiago.

The walk is a fun way to see one of the world’s most acclaimed ancient routes, providing a trip away with a difference.

For further information and a gallery featuring participating schools so far, see the Follow the Camino Facebook page. Alternatively, see www.followthecamino.com/

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22 GAZETTE 13 October 2016

DUBLINLIFE

FEATURE

AWARENESS: ACT TODAY AND REMOVE THE STIGMA

‘It’s time to make mental health an everyday part of your life to nurture’  IAN BEGLEY

THE founder and chief executive of one of the country’s leading suicide prevention organisations says we need to change the way we look at mental health.

Following World Mental Health Day, which occurred on October 10, Caroline McGuigan, who founded Suicide or Survive back in 2003, has said progress is being made but says more work is needed when it comes to breaking down the stigma about mental health that is still alive and well, and that is preventing people from speaking out and getting support.

She said: “We’ve made some inroads in the

national conversation about mental health, but now we need real leadership – in families, in communities, in politics, in business, sport and industry – to make mental health as normal as dental health in everyday life.

“This means talking about mental health and, from a very young age, teaching our children to take care of their mental health just like they take care of their dental health as a daily practice that they will continue throughout their lives.

“We need to view our mental health as a precious resource that needs to be nurtured and supported, not as something we take for granted and only consider when we

start to struggle,” she said.

Anyone can struggle with their mental health, and Caroline believes we need to move the conversation from talking about other people and their mental health to having everyday conversations about our own mental health.

She believes that it is only when we see that struggling is a part of everyday life and not something to be ashamed of that we will start to take a proactive approach to mind our mental health.

In turn, thanks to such an everyday focus we could more easily reach out for support when our mental health is challenged.

When the conversation

about looking after our mental health becomes as everyday as the conversation about looking after our physical or mental health, we will see real, meaningful and sustainable change, she says.

Caroline, who is also a practicing psychotherapist, set up Suicide or Survive based on her own experience of mental health struggles. She survived a suicide attempt and spent eight years as a user of psychiatric services.

Her own experience, and the experience of others who have used and continue to use the services of Suicide or Survive, have informed all of the programmes and services offered by

Having everyday conversations about our mental healh is key to help improve it.

Suicide or Survive are urging everyone to support their nationwide drive to help people improve their mental health, and to remove the stigma from the issue.

the organisation.

These include the Suicide or Survive Eden Programme, for people who have attempted or thought about suicide; the Wellness Recovery Action Planning programme, which supports people to develop their own action plan for their wellness, from daily maintenance right through to crisis and post-crisis planning.

They also include the

one-day Wellness Workshop, which is delivered in communities and workplaces throughout Ireland, and is packed full of tips and techniques for anyone to use to manage and maintain their everyday wellness.

Suicide or Survive have also launched a phone app and an online wellness workshop at www.wellnessworkshop. ie, available in several

languages.

The organisation is currently running its National Tea Break campaign to encourage individuals, communities and organisations to break down mental health stigma by having a cuppa and a chat about their mental health, and to raise much needed funds for the organisation.

For further information, see www.suicideorsurvive.ie.

No limits to I Wish plans

I Wish founders Caroline O’Driscoll, Ruth Buckley and Gillian Keating (centre) with students from St Finian’s CC, Swords. Picture: Sasko Lazarov/Photocall Ireland

I WISH, a partnership initiative encouraging young women to pursue a career in STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths), was launched in Dublin last week.

The upcoming initiative combines the power of industry, academia and the public sector in order to inspire and encourage young women to pursue careers in STEM. Set up in 2014 by three Cork businesswomen – Gillian Keating, partner at Ronan Daly Jer-

myn; Ruth Buckley, head of ICT and business services at Cork City Council, and Caroline O’Driscoll, partner at KPMG – this year, the award-winning I Wish conference and exhibition is expanding nationally to engage with more than 4,000 secondary school girls with the purpose of encouraging and motivating them to pursue careers in STEM. Speaking at the launch, I Wish co-founder Gillian Keating said, “Earlier this year we surveyed

2,000 Transition Year girls and 75% of them said that having a career that involved helping other people was important to them.

“I Wish 2017 will explain to these girls how big the world’s problems are. We will put female role models centre-stage to show them the real jobs in STEM that can help solve these problems and, ultimately, help people in a truly remarkable way.”

I Wish takes place in the RDS next February 13 and 14.

13 October 2016 GAZETTE 23

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FOOD&DRINK BITESIZEDNEWS

Professor Robert Pickard, University of Cardiff with Dr Muireann Cullen, Nutrition and Health Foundation, and Dr Pamela Byrne, Food Safety Authority of Ireland. Picture: Naoise Culhane

‘Classic foods are still better than any fads’  IAN BEGLEY

Gold cutlery added a special touch of decadence to the wedding reception of a Churchtown woman

A golden opportunity to elevate your big day  EMMA NOLAN

WHEN Churchtow n local Amy McGovern got married in Italy this year, gold cutlery for the reception was a big splurge that really elevated the table settings.

A fter the wedding, however, Amy realised she had a 750-piece set of gold cutlery and no use for it.

Not wanting such a beautiful collection of cutlery to just sit gathering dust in the attic, Amy is now renting the

set out for use at other weddings and events.

“I really wanted it for my own wedding,” Amy says.

“It was my one extravagant buy, and I looked in to hiring it in Ireland and I couldn’t find any option that was in any way reasonably priced.

“So, when I researched it, it made sense for me to actually purchase it outright.”

A my s h i p p e d t h e cutlery in from China and had a beautiful wedding, with the gold

cutlery adding a special touch of decadence to the reception.

She has since set up

an Instagram profile showcasing the cutlery in all its glory.

Visit goldcutler fo -

rhire on Instagram and email Amy on goldcutleryforhire@outlook.ie for a quote.

POPULAR fads and myths regarding nutrition and exercise are having a serious impact on the public’s health, and people shouldn’t follow the latest craze or make significant changes to their diet or exercise programmes without proper investigation.

This was the view of the national and international experts at Food & Fitness – Fact V Fiction, the Nutrition and Health Foundation’s ninth annual seminar, where they debunked many of the latest fads and misconceptions regarding nutrition and physical exercise.

Making the case for including red meat as part of a healthy Irish diet, Professor Robert Pickard, former director general of the British Nutrition Foundation, said: “Human beings thrive best on a balanced diet where they eat a little bit of everything and not too much of any one thing.

“Lean, red meat is the most satiating food and helps to curb appetite. It is also the richest source of vitamins and minerals in the diet.

“Cows, sheep, and pigs share 80% of their genes with humans, so most of the molecules that they make are needed by humans.”

The foundation is a multi-stakeholder group that brings industry, policy makers and health professionals together in a collaborative approach to reducing obesity in Ireland.

A Moreish way to get kids eating healthily MOREISH, seems like the fresh food brand by Maxol, is continuing a series of children’s healthy cookery workshops at its cafe outlets across the country. Once such workshop took place in the Moreish cafe at Maxol Donabate.

The purpose of the workshops is to teach children key cookery skills and to encourage them to look at healthier options.

The children enjoy a practical workshop, each with their own workstation, and are taught techniques including measuring, weighing and cooking on the hob while following recipes for healthy flapjacks and berry smoothies. The workshops are held in conjunction with Kater4Kidz, which teaches children about healthy eating and food skills.

GAZETTE

24 BLANCH GAZETTE 13 October 2016

DUBLINLIFE

CINEMA ReelReviews

SUPERSONIC Sibling rivalry

Supersonic is a spectacularly lairy new documentary, which takes a vivid look at the glory days of Britpop’s finest but also gently picks apart the torrid relationship at the heart of the band – that of lovers, fighters and brothers Noel and Liam. With two careerdefining albums under their belt they were the biggest band in Britain, achieving the feat in a mere three years. (Cert 15A, 122mins)

Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander turn in powerful and balanced performances

THE LIGHT BETWEEN OCEANS: RELENTLESS TRAGIC DRAMA FROM DEREK CIANFRANCE

A mesmerising movie experience TWO powerful and balanced per formances carr y the weight of this relentlessly tragic drama from director Derek Cianfrance.

The Light Between Oceans (Cert 12A, 73 mins), adapted from the novel by ML Stedman, stars Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander as a lighthouse keeper and his wife who rescue and adopt a baby girl they find at sea.

Though sumptuously arranged by Cianfrance and cinematographer Adam Arkapaw, The Light Between Oceans is encumbered with a little too much heav y-handed melo drama and a running time that outlasts the poignancy of its subject.

World War I veteran Tom (Fassbender) takes up a job as a lighthouse keeper on a small island off the coast of Austral-

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

ia, where he lives with his young wife Isabel (Vikander).

The newlywed couple try desperately to have a baby.

After finding an infant girl washed ashore in a rowboat, Isabel is determined to raise it as their own.

W h i l e To m f i r s t asser ts they should inform the authorities, he ultimately gives way to his young wife’s wishes, a decision that will have devastating effects on the couple’s future.

Each tragic narrative turn and crushing decision is affectingly driv-

en by the lead actors’ superb performances.

This is a story about profound loss, transformative bliss and devastating revelation, all the more stirring in the confined seclusion of its island setting.

Unfortunately, for all its emotional potential, the film tugs a little too hard at the heartstrings a little too often and, consequently, is never quite as poignant or devastating as it should be.

For such a sombre, softly shot film, there is little narrative subtlety – when happiness comes crashing down, it is immediate and forceful, inspiring frustration rather than tears.

The Island of Janus is enchanting in its seclusion throughout the film’s first half; the puzzle of baby Lucy’s sudden appearance in this

wild setting evokes the otherworldly mystery of Picnic at Hanging Rock.

When certain crushi n g r e ve l a t i o n s a r e made in the second half of The Light Between Oceans, civilisation is suddenly much closer; each tragic development brings Tom and Isabel closer to a tragic reality.

However, with each subsequent narrative turn the dreamy atmosp h e r e g i ve s w ay t o unsubtle melodrama.

Despite the film’s 132-minute r unning time, there is little space afforded to character depth – Tom’s harrowing wartime experience isn’t probed enough and Isabel’s own past family tragedy is barely touched on.

Consequently, it is hard to empathise with Tom and Isabel and

often frustrating to see them make bad decision after bad decision.

T h a n k f u l l y, F a s s bender and Vikander’s wonderful chemistr y makes the tragedy here a pleasure to behold, lusciously framed with precision against glowing sunsets and vast, cold ocean expanses.

The Light B e t w e e n Oceans is very, ver y heav y on sentimentality and forceful in its tragedies.

Cianfrance is certainly capable of more

subtle, grounded romance, as we’ve seen in 2010’s Blue Valentine and 2014’s The Place Beyond The Pines.

Nevertheless, this is a lovingly crafted film and although it would benefit from a little less exasperating melodrama, it is worthy of your attention, even if just for its stellar central performances.

Verdict: 7/10

DEEPWATER HORIZON

Three-quel is years late ON April 20th, 2010, one of the worlds largest manmade disasters occurred on the Deepwater Horizon in the Gulf of Mexico.

Directed by Peter Berg (Lone Survivor), this story honors the brave men and women whose heroism would save many on board, and change everybody lives forever. (Cert 12A, 108 mins).

MISS PEREGRINE’S HOME FOR PECULIAR CHILDREN A gothic tale

WHEN his beloved grandfather leaves Jake clues to a mystery that spans different worlds and times, he finds a magical place known as Miss Peregrine’s School for Peculiar Children (Cert 12A, 127mins). But the mystery and danger deepen as he gets to know the residents.

13 October 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

TECH WeeBytes

Gotta catch ’em all ... Erna Solberg plays Pokemon Go during a Norwegian parliamentary meeting

Norway-re to hide a Pokemon Go game From base management to team loadouts and in-the-field battles, XCom 2 demands strategy, strategy, strategy at all times

XCOM 2: SAVING THE PLANET EARTH IS HARDER THAN IT SOUNDS

May be too difficult  SHANE DILLON

Tech Editor

WHILE robots may be returning in force to our big and small screens (see below), and while cuddly creatures are captivating millions of people who’re supposed to be capturing them (see right), there’s still one group of beings that are always in vogue – aliens.

The XCom series has always presented gamers with a crushing strategy challenge, where one false move can have drastic consequences as the player runs the shadowy XCom agency as it covertly fights back at

aliens trying to invade.

XCom 2 (Cert 16, PC, Mac, PS4, XBO, c. €50) builds on all the conventions established in the long-running series.

The twist here is that you start with the aliens having ver y successfully invaded Earth years ago, thank you very much, with the XCom resistance facing the daunting challenge of fighting back.

It’s a game of move and counter-move, cause and effect, played out across isometric playing fields. You move your characters during your turn – and then the aliens do the same, like a particularly

rigid gentleman’s agreement.

By maximising a wide range of variables, from height advantages to unit types, weapon types and special abilities, the hope is to win the day – or at least to survive the mission, as XCom enforces “permadeath”.

If you play badly with poor strategies, your characters will die. Lose enough people, and XCom begins to lose support.

Lose support, and the challenges get even harder to overcome, with the loss of a single important character potentially turning the tide of the whole war against you.

There’s little here that XCom veterans won’t have seen before. Despite being comparatively simple to look at, the nicely detailed levels and environments can suffer from occasional framerate issues, with the in-game assets sometimes battling to keep up.

However, it’s still a decent XCom addition, presenting a stiff challenge that requires plenty of thought and planning, and there’s still little to beat the classic XCom feeling of completing a tough mission with everybody still alive.

Well done, Commander – until your next mission ...

Say ‘Howdy’ to the return of the robots?

COULD robots be the new zombies (which were themselves the new vampires)? Confused?

Vampire-based films and TV series ruled the cultural roost for a while just a few years ago, before making way for a glut of zombie-related material, with several films and series featuring the undead plodding about on the big and small screen until the fad seemed to die back a bit earlier this year.

However, the glossy new Westworld TV series (based on the classic old sci-fi

film about realistic robots going murderously haywire in an elaborate theme park) could well be an advance front of the next wave to hit the small and big screen.

Although just a couple of episodes in, the terrific critical and audience reaction to the show that’s largely about robots (like Dolores Abernathy, right) at a Wild West-styled park who don’t know that they’re robots has sent a clear signal to execs: more like this, please.

With next year to see Harrison Ford return in the long-delayed Bladerunner sequel (Blade Runner 2049), and with a number of other robot and AI-related films and series in the works, 2017 could very well see the rise of the robot, and a deeper cultural exploration of the ever increasing role of AI in our lives.

But whether next year or beyond, you may want to avoid any robot cowboys you find, just in case.

PERHAPS suffering from a sudden case of “Boreditis”, Norway’s Prime Minister, Erna Solberg, was recently snapped playing Pokemon Go during a debate at a parliamentary meeting in the Storting (the supreme legislature).

Nintendo’s smash-hit global mobile game (which largely involves spotting or tracking down virtual creatures using location services and augmented reality - and then ‘capturing’ them) has a huge following, with Pokemon Go players drawn from all ages and backgrounds.

She’s not the first Norwegian politician whose attention has wandered away during a meeting, with the Liberal party leader, Trine Skei Grand, spotted in August playing the game during a meeting on national security.

Whether or not either of the Norwegian politicians shouted “A-Ha!” as they found and then captured their Pokemon is currently unknown.

Closer to home, and while Leinster House is reported to be full of exotic creatures and colourful characters, there’s no word as yet whether our beloved leader, Taoiseach Enda Kenny, is trying to catch ’em all. Seems like the particularly unique denizens there will be free to roam the halls for a little bit longer.

Samsung hangs up on the Galaxy Note 7 SAMSUNG are in the news for all the wrong reasons, thanks to what proved to be a terminal issue with its Galaxy Note 7 smartphone.

The troubled phone has been making headlines in recent weeks due to several reports of some of phones smoking and even catching fire, with social media shots showing scorched phones.

The issue was so serious, it led to the global recall of at least 2.5 million Galaxy Note 7 phones.

Unfortunately, some of the replacement phones sent out to customers also went up in smoke.

And so, at the time of going to press, Samsung has just taken the drastic decision to cease production of the phone, with immediate effect, marking a very decisive end for the premium phone.

26 BLANCH GAZETTE 13 October 2016

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28 BLANCH GAZETTE 13 October 2016

SPORT Fair Game gets top pod nod

FastSport

WOMEN IN SPORT: BUCKLEY AND GLEN HONOURED FOR NEW INNOVATION

SHELS THROUGH TO SENIOR FINAL:

SHELBOURNE Ladies and Wexford Youths WFC will meet in this season Continental Tyres FAI Women’s Senior Cup final.

A Leanne Kiernan double helped Shelbourne Ladies to a 4-1 victory over Peamount United at Greenogue.

Kiernan opened the scoring after 14 minutes after Peamount keeper Noaise McAloon had misjudged Siobhan Killeen’s cross. Kiernan doubled Shels lead on 22 minutes with a super goal, coming off the left wing and striking with her right foot find the roof of the net.

Noelle Murray made it 3-0 from the penalty spot seven minutes before half time. New Shels centre forward Gloria Douglas sealed the victory on 61 minute with an excellent low drive from just inside the penalty area before Peamount got one back.

Wexford progressed to the final after a 7-0 victory over Kilkenny United.

 JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

FAIR GAME Podcast won the Realex Web Award for the Best Podcast Series last week, picking up the award as they prepare to produce the second series of the show.

Fair Game is a serial podcast launched just a few months ago, and focused on discussing women in sport. Run

by Elaine Buckley and Emily Glen, the show picked up the award at Dublin’s Liberty Hall, with Glen describing the win as “a bit of a shock after just nine months, but we’re incredibly proud.”

The pair have explored numerous

elements of the sporting world in the first series, welcoming a host of national-level stars to talk on topics from the Rio Olympics to adventure sports, as well as tackling issues like Lidl’s notorious ‘ladyball’ campaign and wider aspects of female sporting prowess.

“We’ve learnt about the power of collaboration,” Buckley explained. “If you have a good idea and you’re not quite sure what to do with it, then talk to l i ke - m i n d e d p e o p l e about it. You could well end up working with them. Our podcast is a testament to that.”

Of course, the podcast deals widely with equality in sport, with

the dual aims of promoting and exploring the women’s game across numerous codes, and talking about where things currently stand.

Both presenters agree that progress in the treatment of women’s sport is slow, with Buckley argu ing “it all comes down to attendance figures for me. Support at the frontline, and the much talked about factors like media and sponsorship will follow suit.”

Speaking of her own contribution, the Muckross hockey player adds, “I think that we ourselves have progressed as presenters since we started out. I cringe listening back to episode

Fair Game creators Elaine Buckley and Emily Glen.

number one now, as we were clinging to scripts for dear life!

“In comparison to our last episode, an unscripted preview of the 26 sportswomen representing Team Ireland at the Rio Olympics, we’re definitely a lot more relaxed in front of the micro phones.”

Glen explained “Elaine and I are fans

of quite different sports so I got to rant about some of the events and athletes I was most looking forward to seeing and I learned loads about the sports she is more familiar with.”

Speaking of their Web Awards victory, Glen added: “It didn’t really sink in for a few days that we’d won – we genuinely weren’t expecting to. We have a ball

making Fair Game so it’s a very pleasant surprise to learn that other people listen to it and like what we’re doing – never mind that some of those people are our sporting heroes!” ** You can listen to the award-winning first series of Fair Game Podcast on their website at castaway.media/ fairgame.

IABA launch new course for female boxing coaches  sport@dublingazette.com

Potential coaches take in the new female coaching initiative at the National Stadium

OVER 50 boxing clubs from around Ireland have taken up a trial programme aimed at introducing more female coaches to one of Ireland’s traditionally most successful sports.

The Irish Amateur Boxing Association (IABA) are hosting the new course, which was launched by World Elite silver medalist Kellie Harrington at Drimnagh Boxing Club on Saturday. The pilot versions of the level one coaching course will take place in Dublin, Kilkenny and

Wexford before the end of 2016.

The training courses are specifically targeted at women already connected with boxing, with Glasnevin, Baldoyle, All Saints, Mulhuddart and Jobstown boxing clubs among the Dublinbased gyms sending representatives to the first course. Attendees from Crumlin and Lucan will travel to the Kilkenny event.

“There are a lot of female boxers, but hardly any female coaches,” IABA club development manager Geraldine McTavish explained. “Most clubs wouldn’t have any female coaches. The

course will feature mothers of young boxers, boxers themselves, assistant coaches, administrators people like that. It’s being offered to women who are already regularly involved in their clubs, to try and get them on the ladder.

“It’s about long-term development. We’ll be rolling out nationally next year, and already have a waiting list of more than 70 people for the next round. It’s important they understand the support is there. One thing you really see is the improved confidence and skill level over the two days.

“Female boxers tend to be

more tactical, but almost all the coaches are men,” she continued.

“Women sometimes work better with women. Doing it for free has brought in interest from people like mothers, who’d be dropping off and then waiting around, and see a chance to get involved. We plan to put in place a progression pathway from here.”

The course is the first to be targeted specifically at women and is being operated in conjunction with Sport Ireland, with the three trial dates intended to test the concept ahead of a broader roll out.

13 October 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

Comerford launches bid for the Winter Olympics

FASTSport

Glenageary student attempting to combine engineering studies and fundraising with his pursuit of the Olympic dream and a potential place at the 2018 Games in Korea  KARL GRAHAM sport@dublingazette.com

DUBLIN could soon boast another Olympic skier in the form of Cormac Comerford, as he aims to represent his country at the 2018 Pyeongchang Winter Olympics.

The 20-year-old from Glenageary competes in two of the five alpine disciplines; the slalom and the giant slalom and has launched an ambitious campaign to reach the pinnacle of the sport.

Comerford’s skiing journey started when he attended an open day at the Ski Club of Ireland in the Dublin Mountains when he was just eight.

Within four years of first attached a set of skis, he became a European Youth Olympian and he recently spoke about his future ambitions and how

he is looking to step up to a new level.

“I’m studying engineering there at the moment so I’m back and forth throughout the season, in between my studies and professional skiing career,” the DIT sports scholar said of his current situation.

College can be tough enough on its own without the added pressure of trying to forge a sports career in a professional environment. This is something Comerford has had to get used to, and in fact only took a short break from studying to conduct the interview.

“When I come off the mountain, I do some studying, and when I’m back in Dublin I’ll be doing physical training again so it’s a pretty tough job [to juggle the two].

“DIT suppor ts me quite a lot. I get sports

conditioning, academic aid, and they are very supportive of my road to Pyeongchang,” Comerford continued.

However, the backing he already receives is not enough to cover the full cost of competing in such an expensive sport so Comerford has set up a crowdfunding campaign with PledgeSports to raise more funds and help him achieve his dream.

Comer ford openly admits that getting to compete in some of the most beautiful parts of the world is a massive draw for him, but it can also offer up some challenging obstacles.

“The travelling is a lovehate relationship. It is probably one of the best experiences and opportunities I have to travel. I love doing it but last season it took up about 40% of my total expenses.

Cormac Comerford is looking to continue his rise on the world skiing scene

“It is pretty rough, especially last season when I was travelling around Europe with pretty much zero funds and having to sleep while I travelled.”

Comerford even had to sleep in the bathroom of an underground car park once – probably a nightmare thought for most parents.

“The Ski Association

small amount of funding that I receive from them.

“I would love to do it full-time if the opportunity arrives and at the moment DIT and PledgeSports are helping me get there but the funds aren’t here in Ireland to be able to do it. I don’t come from a family which would have the funds either so I work during the summer

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

‘I am on track to becoming number one and it is definitely within reach’ - Cormac Comerford

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

of Ireland gets funds from the Olympic Council but it a very small amount because there is not as many athletes competing as you might have in something like athletics.

They support me as much as they can but it is only a

to save up.”

Comerford is much stronger at slalom, ranked second in Ireland, but he prefers giant slalom, seeing it is a much more exciting and challenging event.

“To make it to the Olympics, I will have to become number one or number one will have to qualify in the A standard.

I am on track to becoming number one and with the season I have ahead of me it is definitely within reach.

“Just getting to the Olympics is the main goal at the moment.”

Comerford is looking to raise €3,000 through his campaign and if you would like to help him achieve his dream of flying the flag for Ireland at the 2018 Winter Olympics, you can make a donation at www.pledgesports.org.

O’Flanagan strikes again as Monkstown on fire FOR the second week running, Hermes-Monkstown’s Anna O’Flanagan struck the only goal of the game to hand the Glenageary club a fourth straight win in the EY Hockey League, denying an impressive Loreto in a 1-0 result.

The game started at a fast pace with Loreto pressing high up the pitch. They had more possession during the first quarter but neither team created any clear cut chances.

The second quarter was also played at a high tempo with both teams passing the ball well.

Hermes-Monkstown won a penalty corner but the switch left was closed down.

As time wore on, the game became more and more open. Both teams created chances in the third quarter with Louisa Healy making a few saves and Rosie Carrigan and Sarah Greene making a couple of very good tackles and interceptions. Hermes-Monkstown scored the only goal when an attack down the right led to a pass across the circle with Anna O’Flanagan sweeping in from around the penalty spot for her 11th goal of the campaign.

The last quarter was very tight with Loreto pressing for an equaliser and Hermes-Monkstown breaking forward when they could. A yellow card slowed down Loreto’s play and they weren’t able to create a clear chance in front of goal as the Merrion Fleet Arena hosts closed out the result.

Elsewhere, Deirdre Duke’s double saw UCD continue their strong start to the campaign, seeing off student rivals Ulster Elks to sit in third place after four rounds of matches.

The Irish international struck early on, flicking home after a couple of early corners had come to nothing. UCD continued to push on during the second quarter with the Elks dropping deep and looking to counter but no further goals accrued before the break.

The Ulster side did break out of their shell in the second half, winning two consecutive corners and were level when Kathryn Smiley managed to tap in at the back post. Katie Mullan, though, restored the lead for the Dubliners when she drove the ball into the circle, flipped it into the air and slotted home. Duke then created the third for Leah Ewart to tap in before the former netted her second.

GAZETTE

30 BLANCH GAZETTE 13 October 2016

SPORT

FASTSport

SOCCER: CELTIC SHINE WITH SERIES OF WINS IN THE SFAI CUPS

Corduff U-15s set up big Glenmuir SFAI tie CORDUFF Under-15s advanced to the third round of the SFAI Cup with a 3-1 win over Ratoath at Corduff Park to set up an away tie against Glenmuir United in the north Leinster region.

This fixture in the past has always lived up to the bill as the match of the big guns and it did not disappoint. The home side started the quickest and were rewarded for their efforts when Robert Rechitean played in a delightful ball for Ugo Anny-Nzjavue to slot home from close range.

Ratoath rolled up their sleeves and looked dangerous but the lads from Blanch were having none of it when man of the match Killian Philips played in a great ball to Ibrahem which led to a pull-back for the on-rushing Rechitean who slotted the ball past the Ratoath keeper again.

Ratoath came forward but, with a solid back four from Corduff, they were held off with the first half coming to a close.

The second half got under way and Philips again in the middle played the ball to Ibrahem out left who cut in from the left, played the ball into the box only for the Ratoath player to put it into his own net.

The second half went flat with the lads from Corduff chosing to keep possession but Ratoath had other plans when they won the ball just inside the Corduff half and, from 40 yards, struck into the top corner with the keeper from Corduff well beaten.

Ratoath had another great chance but the Corduff number one Eugene Prodanchuk got across his line quickly to retain the 3-1 victory.

Castleknock Celtic’s Ciaran Eccles and Zeke Okirikpo go for goal against Knocklyon Utd in the SFAI National Under-14’s Skecher’s Cup

Castle’s All-Ireland Kings sport@dublingazette.com

CASTLEKNOCK Celtic enjoyed a series of impressive wins in the national knock-out cups last weekend with success at a number of different levels.

The Under-17s were drawn away in the FAI National Umbro Challenge Cup and they travelled to St Anne’s Park in Raheny to face Frankfort FC. Celtic’s goals came from Jabarii Crichlow who hit two while there were one each for Abasse Camara, Adam Russell and Morgan Kynes. Celtic ran out comfortable 5-2 winners in the end.

At Under-14 level in the SFAI National Good-

son Cup second round, Knocklyon Utd were the visitors to Porterstown Park. Castleknock were at full strength and their opponents, from the B-division, faced a tough assignment.

Celtic are progressing well in their DDSL U-14 Major division this term and the gulf between the sides became evident as the game unfolded. There were hat-tricks for Luke Brady and Danny Ursu, with the other two goals coming from Scott Daly and Zeke Okirikpo. It ended in a comfortable 8-2 to Celtic.

One year up, there was less good fortune when Castleknock Celtic’s Premier 2 team travelled

to meet Home Farm in Whitehall in the Under15’s Skechers SFAI AllIreland Evans Cup. Castleknock were up against top Premier-1 outfit Home Farm in this second round fixture. In what turned out to be a fascinating game of football, both teams started well with both clearly intent on playing passing a game.

As the game wore on, it was hard to distinguish which team was playing in Premier 1 as Castleknock gave as good as they got. Chances were few and far between with Castleknock’s best coming from a flying Dylan McDonagh header that just grazed the far post

while, just on half time, the Home Farm striker reacted to a lapse in concentration from Celtic only for keeper Tommy Bowe to bring off a point blank save.

Celtic went for it after the break as they dominated the early exchanges. They came closest when Donatus Nweke released Leigh Reilly on the half way line.

Reilly showed great pace and control as he outpaced the centre back but having run 45 metres he pulled his shot just wide of the keeper.

Celtic were caught with 15 minutes to go when a Farm midfielder placed the ball beyond the reach of Bowe. Celtic

were rocked and, minutes later, they were nearly punished again.

A failed clearance resulted in Farm firing in 4 shots in quick succession. One brought a great save from Bowe and the others were valiantly blocked. Celtic regrouped and pushed for the equaliser.

In tr uth, the well organised Farm defence restricted Celtic to long range efforts and it was they who scored a second in the last minute with a thunderous finish from their right winger – a deserved goal. this talented Celtic team must wait for another season before achieving the Holy Grail of an All-Ireland title.

13 October 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

SUPER SAINTS

Brigid’s junior football side earns promotion

CLUB NOTICEBOARD ST BRIGID’S

ST BRIGID’Sadvanced to the AFL11 league

final after a 3-7 to 1-12 win over St Mark’s last weekend, securing promotion into the bargain.

The Russell Park side finished the north section of their league in second place, earning a playoff place against winners of the south section whom they dispatched to reach the decider for the overal silverware.

WELL done to our AFL11 footballers who

are invited to come along on the night.

are through to the league final after a

Table of four is €40.

3-7 to 1-12 win over St Mark’s on Sun-

The St Brigid’s nursery runs every

day afternoon. That win also secures

Saturday in Russell Park from 9.30am

promotion.

to 11am. We welcome all 4-7 year olds

Hard luck to our senior footballers

in the Castleknock and Blanchard-

who bowed out of the championship

stown area and new members and

on Sunday afternoon to a strong Bal-

families are always welcome. For fur-

lymun Kickhams team.

ther information and queries, contact

Well done to our Senior 1 camogie

FOOTBALL: GOALKEEPER MAKES CRUCIAL INTERVENTIONS

Our lotto jackpot remains at €15,000

on Sunday. Congratulations also to

with the reserve now also at €15,000.

our U-13 and U-15 camogie teams who

There was no jackpot winner in last

are both through to the finals after a

week’s draw. This week’s draw will

great semi-final wins. The finals will

take place in The Vineyard on Thurs-

take place on October 22/23.

day, October 13. Many thanks to eve-

The senior camogie team are running a fundraising quiz on Friday, October 14 at 8pm in the club bar. It should be a great fun night out and all

CASTLEKNOCK

 sport@dublingazette.com

CASTLEKNOCK broke new ground as Morven Connolly produced the goalkeeper heroics, saving two penalties from Gary Sweeney to record a fourpoint Dublin senior football championship victory at Drumnigh on Sunday.

The Somerton side ran out 1-13 to 0-12 winners over St Sylvester’s to reach the quarter-finals of the competition for the first time in their history. It is just their second senior campaign but they have adapted quickly to life at the top table, putting themselves into AFL1

playoff contention, as well as picking up two wins in this year’s SFC. Castleknock held a three-point lead at the interval before Connolly produced his first save from Sweeney.

T hen Castleknock struck for the only goal when full forward James Sherry fisted home on 35 minutes. Sherry ended up with 1-3 to his name while his heavy scoring was augmented by two points from Des Carlos and Shane Boland and three from Mikey Galvin.

In injury-time Connolly stopped his second penalty as Castleknock continue into the quarter-

final.

St Brigid’s, however, bowed out of the competition 1-16 to 0-13 at Parnell Park.

Dean Rock was the scoring star of the show for the Mun with a personal tally of 1-9. Kickhams settled early and were 0-4 to 0-1 up inside 15 minutes despite John O’Loughlin doing very well for Brigid’s in midfield.

They could have moved further ahead three minutes later but Shane Supple produced the second great save of the match to firstly deny Leon Young before Ted Furman had his rebound effort divert-

ed out for a 45.

Earlier in the half, Supple superbly tipped an goal effort from the influential Jason Whelan around the post.

However, by the break the Mun were 1-7 to 0-3 clear after Rock had found a way past the Brigid’s netminder in the 28th minute.

But following the introduction of Kevin Bonner at full-forward for Brigid’s they came more into the contest, kicking two points, while Paddy Andrews began to find his accuracy but Ballymun had enough in the tank to run out six-point winners in the end.

St Brigid’s/Spleodar Irish Club for teenagers runs every Thursday.

Just come down to Tir na nOg (beside Castleknock Community College) this

senior footballers who are now in the

Saturday at 10am, say hello to one of

last eight of the championship.

our friendly coaches and enjoy the

team.

DUBLIN SFC 2ND ROUND

to our great lotto committee.

onship win over St Sylvester’s by our

to all who travelled to support the

Syl’s pay penalty to Castle’s Connolly

ryone who supports our club lotto and

BRILLIANT senior A football champi-

Well done to all and sincere thanks

Castleknock’s Morven Connolly makes a crucial penalty save. Picture: Niall O’Connell

David on 085 8340169.

team on a great win in the play offs

sport and fun.

Please check out the actors who are participating in our fundraising

Great wins also for our minor A

Oskars and support their fundraising

footballers over St Vincent’s; U-13

activities. Tickets for the OsKars on

camogie girls over Fingallians; the

November 5 are now available please

U-15 camogie girls over Cuala and our

see www.castleknock for details.

Division 1 U-14 footballers who finished

Sincere thanks to all who volun-

their league campaign unbeaten after

teered and supported our bagback

victory over Ballinteer.

fundraising weekend this weekend in

The senior hurling championship is

Tesco Roselawn.

this Saturday v Olafs at 3pm away in

Sincere thanks to Tesco for their

Sandyford. Big game for the lads and

continued support. Cash for Clobber

all support appreciated.

is ongoing, just drop down old clothes

Our nursery, in association with

to Somerton.

Tiger Childcare, for four to seven-

Sincere sympathies to the Dono-

year-olds is back in full swing and

ghue Family on the death of Laura’s

new members are very welcome.

father Robert. RIP.

NAOMH PEREGRINE

DEEPEST sympathies from all at the

footballers on reaching their first

club to David Juhel and Tony Lundy

final after a hard fought three point

and their families on the death of their

win against Portobello. Hard luck to

mothers, may they rest in peace.

the U-13s girls who lost their camogie

Special thanks to Mary Murtagh for all her hard work with the club’s

championship cup quarter-final game against Good Counsel.

ticket allocation for the two All-Ire-

There will be a first aid course tak-

land finals, championship and league

ing place in the club on Saturday,

campaign.

October 22. It will consist of how to

Well done to the senior B footballers

use the defibrillator and basic sports

on their three-point win against Fingal

injuries; contact Aileen or Adrian to

Ravens. Congratulations to the minor

book a place.

footballers on reaching the champion-

Our nursery (born 2011 and 2012)

ship semi-final with a win over Naomh

and academy (born 2009 and 2010)

Olaf.

kids train every Thursday (5-6pm for

Hard luck to the U-15s footballers

all) and Saturday (9.30am nursery

who lost their semi-final shield game

and 10.30am academy). Newcomers

after a good display against Ballymun

always welcome. Bring gum shields,

Kickhams.

helmets, hurls, water and subs.

Congratulations to the senior ladies

Details on Facebook.

GAZETTESPORT ALL OF YOUR BLANCH SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31

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OCTOBER 13-19, 2016

SLALOMING TO SUCCESS: Comerford’s bid to reach 2018 Winter Olympics P29

Brigid’s duo miss out on All-Ireland title  KARL GRAHAM

sport@dublingazette.com

ST BRIGID’S duo Eoin Kennedy and Carl Browne were unable to add yet another AllIreland title to their already huge haul as they lost 21-7, 21-14 to Meath in the final of the AllIreland 60x30 senior handball doubles.

Last year’s winners were confident walking into a packed Croke Park Handball Centre but they couldn’t match their rivals, who were looking to reclaim the trophy they won two years ago.

St Brigid’s man Kennedy spoke to GazetteSport about

missing out on retaining the title.

“Very disappointed with the loss,” he said. “Obviously, we won it last year and we were confident we were playing well but it didn’t really happen on the night.

“They pretty much had us on the back foot from the go. They went 8-0 up and were dominating the front of the court. We fought hard but they were just more clinical on the night in terms of making fewer mistakes and making the big shots when they needed to.”

The Dublin duo went into the final with a specific game plan

but their opponents refused to play ball with what they wanted to do.

“We thought that we could keep them out at the back of the court and take the killer shots when we had our chances but they weren’t really going down.

We had a strategy and tried to change it during the game to adapt, but to be fair to them they were really, really good on the night. They were definitely deserving winners.

“Hopefully we can come back next year. We’ve had a good run by winning the last three senior All-Irelands across the different codes so it was always going to

come to an end at some stage.”

The final marked the end of the season for Kennedy and for now he’s just looking to relax and enjoy his new found life a s a father before looking towards next season.

“I’m switching off for a couple of weeks. Maybe tip away in the gym but I’m not going to go on to the court for five or six weeks.”

In the medals presentation, afterwards the players remembered the late Michael “Ducksie” Walsh who had graced the Croke Park court on many great occasions and Meath dedicated their win to his memory.

Eoin Kennedy was not able to add to his huge list of All-Ireland handball titles.