Blanch

Gazette BLANCH

the big interview: Irish designer Paul Costelloe

on the joys of coming back to his home town Page 16

Inside:

See our top tips to take the stress out of Christmas dinner Page 20

Picture: Conor McCabe

Page 17

Festive fare:

sport Football:

St Brigid’s and Castleknock in up tempo final Page 31

Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you

Find us on

The best things in life are FREE!

Leading the Christmas cheer for Simon

Pictured at the launch of Simon House of Light was Beatrice and Isabelle Braescu and Jennifer Schiopu from Fusion Elite All Star Cheerleaders, based in Ongar Community Centre in Blanchardstown. The trio took part in a three-day festival which brought the joy and magic of Christmas to Dubliners as it took over the Powerscourt Townhouse Centre on South William Street recently. The festive celebration saw the front of the centre illuminated in a magical music and light projection show with an array of entertainment and activities every half hour. There were fun and games inside and outside, all in aid of the Dublin homeless charity.

The Coronas are among the stellar line up for New Year’s concert

December 17-23, 2015

Fifteen offers of social housing turned down Count shows 117 families assessed as homeless from the Dublin 15 area

 Keith Bellew Fifteen offers of social housing were turned down in the Blanchardstown area between December 2014 and December 2015 according to Fingal County Council.

The most common reason given for refusal was that the person perceived the property to be unsuitable for reasons including it being too small, it did not have a garden, or that they did not want a lease a g r e e m e n t / vo l u n t a r y

housing.

At the last count, there were 117 families assessed as homeless from the Dublin 15 area, the majority of whom are living in emergency accommodation.

Cllr Paul Donnelly (SF)

said that despite the obvious need and acute shortage of social housing, he understands people wanting the best option as they will most likely be in that home for a long time.

Full Story on Page 3

2 BLANCH Gazette 17 December 2015

education | joining of institutions moves forward

€590,000 funding boost for institute  Keith Bellew

Institute of Technology Blanchardstown

The past two weeks have seen two positive developments for Institute of Technology Blanchardstown (ITB), following several years of funding cuts.

On December 9 Minister for Education Jan O’Sullivan announced €590,000 in funding for ITB as part of a €10m round of funding that is being made available to the country’s 14 Institutes of Technology. This funding will permit the Institutes to discharge costs already incurred on a range of small-scale building works, refurbishment of existing facilities and/ or upgrading equipment.

Meanwhile this week, the Minister will bring the Technological Universities bill to the Dail, after it was approved by cabinet.

ITB, the Dublin Institute of Technology and the Institute of Technology Tallaght have been working together since 2011 with a view to forming one institution and applying to be designated as Ireland’s first Technological University. This bill brings that one step closer to being achieved.

ITB president Dr Mary Meaney said: “This is a unique opportunity to create a new university which can make a really valuable contribution to Ireland, socially and economically. Offering programmes that are inclusive, student-focussed and relevant, it will play a significant role in our ongoing economic recov-

ery and will form a natural component of the higher education eco-system in the Dublin region.”

As part of the plans for the new Technological University, the ITB campus will grow to accommodate up to 5,000 students in a wide variety of programmes from QQI level 6 up to PhD. The new University will have two other campuses at Grangegorman and Tallaght.

Some lecturers at the institute have raised concerns that this amalgamation could restrict the institutes capacity to grow, and what funding will be announced could be eaten up by their larger partners.

However, Dr Meaney went on to say that this initiative will embed ITB even further in the community ITB serves in Blanchardstown and beyond, “as we increase our capacity to deliver programmes for school leavers, industry and other partners”.

“It is important that the future shape of the new institution builds on what we now do well, and adds a further dimension making it identifiable as the kind of institution students would aspire to attend; in which colleagues are proud to serve; and which will earn the loyalty of our respective graduates.”

She added that ITB will continue to engage with staff, students and the local community as the Technological University for Dublin initiative continues apace.

Dublin Gazette Newspapers, Second Floor, Heritage House, Dundrum Office Park, Dublin 14 Tel: 01 - 6010240. Email: sales@dublingazette.com news@dublingazette.com web: www.dublingazette.com twitter: @DublinGazette Visit us on Facebook at DublinGazetteNewspapers

don’s dublin Exhibition focuses on a strange yet fun literary wonderland CHRISTMAS is always a time when fairytales are in the air, and none more so than Alice in Wonderland, which was published 150 years ago, on November 26, 1865.

To celebrate this landmark in publishing, Trinity College have arranged a special display of related books and illustrations from its collection, which will be on show until early January and is in the foyer of the Berkeley Library.

The book’s full title is Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, and it was written by Lewis Carroll.

His proper name was Charles Lutwidge Dodgson (1832-1898), who was a mathematician (lecturing in Christ Church, Oxford), logician and a pioneer of the new art form of photography.

Among his most famous portraits were those of Michael Faraday, Lord Salisbury and Alfred, Lord Tennyson.

He Latinised his names Charles Lutwidge to ‘Carolus Ludovicus’, reversed them, and then changed them to ‘vulgar’ english, arriving at ‘Lewis Carroll’.

He was also an Anglican deacon, and the greatgrandson of Charles Dodgson, who was the Bishop of Elphin in Roscommon in the 1770s.

The idea for his most famous book came during a boat trip along the Isis from Folly Bridge, Oxford to Godstow on July 4, 1862.

He made up the story as he went along to entertain the three young Liddell sisters: Lorina, Alice and Edith, whose father was the dean of Christ Church.

The girls liked the story, and Alice asked Carroll to write it down for her. In 1864, he gave Alice a handwritten copy of Alice’s Adventures Under Ground, in which he added his own illustrations.

Others read it, and over the next year he tweaked the story and, with the help of top illustrator John Tenniel, it was published by Macmillan.

Since then, it has never been out of print, so new generations are still meeting the colourful cast of characters: The Hatter, The March Hare, The Cheshire Cat, The White Rabbit, and the manic Queen of Hearts, who loves to shout “Off with their heads”.

Great stuff!

Don Cameron

www.donsdublin.wordpress.com

Author Lewis Carroll’s (inset) classic Alice in Wonderland tale still delights, today

17 December 2015 BLANCH Gazette 3

council | 117 families assessed as homeless from the Dublin 15 area

Castleknock

Barry is toast of the town

15 offers of social housing declined  Keith Bellew

Fifteen offers of social housing were turned down in the Blanchardstown area between December 2014 and December 2015, according to Fingal County Council.

The reasons for refusals included wanting a different area, wanting to be closer to amenities/ services, wanting to be closer to family, some did not respond to their offer, and the most common reason was that the person perceived the property to be unsuitable for reasons including it being too small, it did not have a garden, or that they did not want a lease agreement/voluntary housing.

There are presently

117 families assessed as homeless from the Dublin 15 area.

The majority of the families are residing in emergency accommodation. In Dublin 15 to date in 2015, 35 homeless or vulnerable households have been provided with permanent accommodation with Fingal County Council or approved housing bodies.

Cllr Paul Donnelly (SF) said that despite the obvious need and acute shortage of social housing he understands people wanting the best option they can get as they will most likely be in that home for a very long time.

“They have to make a decision which is in the best interests of their family. In some ways

I can understand why some people will refuse the first offer, I think the vast majority accept the second offer and to me it’s only fair that person should have that opportunity if they feel that it’s not suitable for their family.

“I know that the council take what the people have said to them about the first offer and try to match up the offer that they would give in the second one,” he said.

He added that in his experience, the vast majority of people are happy enough with the first offer but there are times where people feel that the first offer isn’t appropriate for their needs and would hold off for the second offer.

Sportsperson honoured ERIN Go Bragh club members had an action-packed Sunday recently at their Christmas Fair. The Robert Stephens Young Sportsperson of the Year Award went to Brian O’Sullivan, pictured here with his parents, Jerry and Julie, and members of the Stephen’s family.

The trophy was donated by the Stephens family in memory of club co-founding member Robert, who passed away earlier this year.

The day began with the annual sponsored walk and ended with the presentation of awards. In between, there was a disco, face painting and magic tricks indoors and a penalty shoot-out on the Astro turf outside.

Barry Lane from Castleknock Toastmasters Club has recently earned the highest achievement in Toastmasters International, that of Distinguished Toastmaster.

He is the first person in 30 years of the club to achieve this accolade.

He has received a plaque detailing his achievement along with a distinguished toastmaster pin.

The club welcomes anybody who wants to improve their speaking skills in a nurturing, nonthreatening environment.

Castleknock Toastmasters Club meets upstairs in Myo’s pub, Castleknock, on the first and third Thursday of each month.

See www.castleknocktoastmasters.com orwww. facebook.com/Castleknock-Toastmasters for more information.

4 BLANCH Gazette 17 December 2015

Travellers | mobile unit and leaflet on domestic abuse established

New initiatives launched by group  Keith Bellew

The Blanchardstown Traveller Development Group held a series of events on Thursday, December 10, which included the launch of two new initiatives.

The day began at 11am with the launch of the group’s new mobile unit which will be used for providing services on the sites it serves.

This was followed by the launch of its leaflet on domestic abuse which was marked with the release of balloons outside the group offices at Unit 13A The Base Cen-

tre, Ladyswell Road, Mulhuddart, Dublin 15.

The day was brought to a close with a celebration of Traveller music in The Cobblestone pub in Smithfield in collaboration with Poster Fish Promotions. The proceeds of this gig will go to those affected by the Carrickmines tragedy. The line up included some of the best Traveller musicians and singers Ireland has to offer with: Thomas McCarthy, Stephen Pecker Dunne and Paddy Dunne, Jack Delaney, Trish Nolan, John Connors, Bernie McDonagh and Katie Theasby.

Chairperson of Blanchardstown Traveller Development Group, Freda Hughes said there was a great response to the events which were also about relaunching the group’s new premises in Ladyswell. She said many local politicians came along to show their support including councillors Ted Leddy (FG), Lorna Nolan (Ind), Deputy Ruth Coppinger (SP). and Fingal Mayor David O’Connor (Ind).

She said the launch of the leaflet on domestic violence was prompted by the belief that it is an issue that touches all strands of

society.

“Traveller men this year have come out really strongly against domestic abuse. Pavee Point ran a big campaign, their Man Up campaign as part of the 16 days [women’s aid campaign against domestic violence].

“We were really determined to bring that to the Blanchardstown group as much as it’s being done nationally.”

The idea behind the celebration of Traveller music was to pay homage to the tradition which she said was hugely influential on the Irish traditional music we know today.

Trish Nolan was among the line up at The Cobblestone pub. Picture: Steve de Paoire

Corduff | long-awaited facility

Care centre set for June finish  Keith Bellew

The construction of the long-awaited Corduff Primary Care Centre, which began last year, is moving on apace, and due for completion in June 2016.

Once completed, the centre will replace the existing Corduff Health Centre with a state-ofthe-art facility capable of meeting the growing health needs of the community. It will include GP practices, a child and adolescent mental health team, an early intervention team, a dental surgery and a GP surgery Health Minister Leo Varadkar has said he is delighted to see progress being made so quickly on the construction, particularly as it took so long for the project to materialise.

“I want to pay tribute to the campaigners who have worked tirelessly to get the centre underway.

Primary Care services are the foundation stones of health care in the community. This new centre

Corduff Primary Care Centre

will provide best practice in local health care for the benefit of the Corduff community and the wider Dublin 15 area. A primary care centre for Corduff has been promised for as long as I can remember. I am really delighted that work has now begun and that it is a reality,” he said.

He said it will be a great asset for the community and will provide a new home for the primary care team which has been working from Hartstown.

Cllr David McGuinness (Ind), who grew up in the area, said he remembers talk of upgrading the old

health centre over 20 years ago.

“It’s a real victory for residents in the area who have campaigned for over two decades to deliver the primary care centre.

Hopefully it’s going to enhance healthcare in the general area and with a bit of luck some local people will get employment when they tender for security jobs, cleaning jobs and receptionists.

I have received contact from people who are very interested in those roles, because the medical jobs are being redeployed from elsewhere in Dublin 15,” he said.

17 December 2015 BLANCH Gazette 5

The latest statistics from Blanchardstown Garda station show a decrease in most areas of crime compared to last year

statistics | Burglaries down by 22%

Most areas of crime decrease

 Keith Bellew

The latest statistics from Blanchardstown Garda station show a decrease in most areas of crime between January and October 2015 compared to the same period last year.

According to the statistics announced by chief superintendent Patrick Clavin, burglaries are down as are instances of criminal damage, drug seizures, robbery from person, robbery from establishments, theft from vehicles, theft from shop public order offences and firearm discharges.

Burglaries are down to 424 from 541 last year, a decrease of 22%, with a 5% detection rate, instances of criminal damage are down to 486 from 610 - 20% with a detection rate of 12%, there were 30 drug seizures so far this year compared to 38 in the same period last

year and robberies from a person are down 29% from 59 to 42 with a 12% detection rate.

Other decreases were in the areas of robberies from establishments down 8% from 36 to 33 with a 30% detection rate, thefts from vehicles are down 33% from 523 to 348 with a 2% detection rate, theft from shops is down 1% from 485 to 482 with a 75% detection rate and there was a 29% drop in public order offences from 177 to 125 with a 91% detection rate.

Two areas of crime saw an increase on last year over the same period.

These are assaults causing harm up 8% from 26 to 28 with a 64% detection rate, and possession of an offensive weapon increased by 5% from 41 to 43.

Chief superintendent Clavin also outlined the crime prevention

strategies which are currently in place, including patrols/checkpoints as part of Operation Thor, Operation Endeavour – tackling crimes against the person and Operation Creeper – to tackle incidents of burglary Fingal Joint Policing Committee member, Cllr Kieran Dennison (FG) said the investment in Garda numbers and equipment in recent years is beginning to take effect in the local crime statistics.

“Having said that, our crime levels are still too high with 424 burglaries, 348 thefts from vehicles and 486 incidents of criminal damage reported for the year to date for Blanchardstown.

“The fight will go on but at least the local gardai are now getting the resources to tackle crime,” he said.

He added that Blanchardstown recently got a new community garda

bus which he believes will be welcomed by the youth groups, the active retired and the many charities that get help from the local gardai.

He said the 600 new gardai to be recruited next year will bring to 1,150 the total number of new recruits since the reopening of Templemore in September 2014.

Deputy Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Jack Chambers (FF) said the reduction in crime is to be welcomed but crime levels are still too high.

“There has been a slight increase in recruitment but it’s in the context of a massive haemorrhaging of the police force over the last number of years.

“As has been outlined by chief superintendent Clavin at a previous JPC, the numbers in Blanchardstown fell by 120 over the last five years,” he said.

6 BLANCH Gazette 17 December 2015

Coolmine | funding requested to extend operating times of local facility

Call for increased hours at Recycling centre  Keith Bellew

Cllr Roderic O’Gorman (GP) has called for provision to be made in next year’s council budget for increased opening hours for the Coolmine Recycling Centre.

The centre currently opens

four days a week from 9am to 4pm, whereas the Estuary Recycling Centre in Swords opens six days a week, usually from 8am to 6pm.

According to the council, the Coolmine Recycling Centre is operated by a total crew of four staff, employed for a

fixed number of hours each week. Because of the current arrangements, the expansion of opening days would require the recruitment of an additional four staff members.

“The extension of the service through staff overtime would not be a practical or financial-

ly advantageous option. The recruitment of these additional staff, which would cost in the region of €150,000 annually, would be required if the recycling centre were to open on a five- or six-day basis.”

Cllr O’Gorman was not happy with this response and

called for an equitable division in funding for the Swords and Coolmine centres.

“I’m calling on the council management to address the difference in treatment between Dublin 15 and the rest of Fingal, in respect of opening hours for recycling centres.

“Across Dublin City, South Dublin and Dun Laoghaire councils, recycling centres are generally open six days a week,” he said.

Fingal County Council had not responded to a request for comment by the time of going to print.

Masked armed robber’s gun ‘fell apart’ in Dunnes Stores hold-up Dunnes Stores in Ongar was the scene of an armed robbery last week by a masked raider armed with a handgun.

The man in question reportedly entered wearing a balaclava, produced a gun and calmly demanded the staff to empty the till.

It is a policy in most retail outlets to put measures in place to ensure there is as little money around as possible in the event of a robbery. The man managed to successfully flee the scene with around €1,000 – but not before an unusual incident.

He reportedly dropped the gun -

which apparently disassembled on impact - at which point he picked up the pieces and pieced them back together on the spot.

There were several customers in the shop at the time. The thief was in and out in five or ten minutes. No shots were fired during the robbery, and nobody was injured.

Gardai in are investigating the robbery. So far, no arrests have been made in relation the incident.

Anyone with any information about the crime is asked to contact Blanchardstown Garda station at 01 666 7000.

Cllr Jack Chambers (FF) said these developments are great news for the area

Tyrrelstown | sod turnings at schools

Local development gaining momentum  Keith Bellew

Development in Tyrrelstown is gaining momentum with official sod turnings at two schools this month, and housing projects moving along very quickly.

The sod was officially turned at the site of Le Cheile Secondary School’s new building last week, and the sod turning of Gaelscoil an Chuilinn takes place early next week.

The new building for Powerstown ETNS is also under way on the same site as Gaelscoil an Chuilinn.

The development of long-awaited spor ts pitches at Tyrrelstown Park can now begin as topsoil needed for them can be obtained from the Le Cheile site.

These new pitches will include two soccer pitches, two GAA pitches and one cricket pitch, which will be built in the park along with a playground, a basketball court, a fivea-side football pitch and skateboarding facilities.

Delays T h e d e ve l o p m e n t has been slowed down

by delays in the construction of Le Cheile secondar y school in the area but contracts have just been signed between the Department of Education and the building contractor for the school. Work will commence in the coming weeks.

Ty r r e l s t o w n w a s originally built with no amenities for the people moving into the area. About three years ago the council struck a deal with the developers where they would give 64 acres to the council for the development of pitches, parkland, a

lake and school’s sites in return for the council’s support for them building more houses in the area.

Plans are in place for around 600 new houses in various parts of Tyrrelstown, and the schools and sports pitches will be built to cater for the families who will move into them.

The deputy mayor of Fingal, Cllr Jack Chambers (FF), who sits on the board of Powerstown ETNS said these developments are great news for the area, as the residents had been left without amenities for so long.

17 December 2015 BLANCH Gazette 7

8 BLANCH Gazette 17 December 2015

message | Season’s greetings at this very special time of the year

Wishing you all a very joyous celebration

Christian leaders deliver a message of faith to Gazette readers

Frs Liam Belton, Kieran McDermott and John Bracken – Pastoral Area of Dundrum, Ballinteer, Meadowbrook Being together with others is an important dimension of our Christmas celebrations and it reflects something at the heart of the Incarnation. Emmanuel is God-with-us. Christ-

mas celebrates the overwhelming love of God that bursts into the world through the conception and birth of Jesus Christ There is a large beautiful crib at the entrance to the Dundrum Town Centre which was recently visited and blessed by representatives of the Christian Churches in Dundrum and Ballinteer.

In this traditional repre-

sentation of the birth of Christ the figures of shepherds and wise men surrounding the Holy Family once again tell a story that is in danger of being forgotten.

It silently witnesses to the values of faith that are more important than ever for the well-being of our cities. One of those values is mentioned in the Benedictus, the Song of Zechariah from St

Luke’s Gospel. It speaks of ‘the loving kindness of the heart of our God, who visits us like the dawn from on high’.

The story of Jesus’s birth still has the power to move people to be kinder and more considerate towards one another.

We are living what we celebrate – a sharing in God’s loving kindness and mercy that comes to us through Christ like the daylight at the beginning of each day.

Reverend Scott Peoples – St Andrew’s Church, Lucan The first Christmas involved an invitation to shepherds and kings to come and see Jesus.

Rich and poor, powerful and weak, insider and outsider are invited to the stable.

This Christmas the invitation is repeated as before to rich and poor, power ful and weak, insider or outsider, saint and sinner. The essential message of Christianity is an invitation to connect with the reality of Jesus Christ.

Over the Christmas season there will be the opportunity to hear traditional carols, attend church services of praise and worship but making a personal connection with the living Jesus Christ can begin in private, in this moment, right now. Approaching Jesus as a friend in private prayer will open up the reality of who He really is and invite Him

Cribs are a lovely way to focus on the true meaning of Christmas, and the legacy of Jesus Christ

into our lives.

Many shy away from this fearing it will limit their lives but following Jesus means opening up our lives to new lifechanging joy, hope and potential.

The Response: With any invitation there is a RSVP. What will be our response this Christmas? Will we connect with the life-changing Jesus Christ? The invitation is real and the response is ours.

May God bless our homes and families at this Christmas time.

Reverend Sam Mawhinney – Adelaide Road Presbyterian Church, Dublin 2 On behalf of the mem-

bers of Adelaide Road Presbyterian, I want to wish all the readers of the Dublin Gazette a very happy and peaceful Christmas.

May you know the wonderful truth and encouragement of “Immanuel” God with you in 2016.

This Christmas we have celebrated Jesus’ birth already with the children of Sunflower Creche which meets on our premises and with our Church children.

This coming Sunday we have a traditional Carols by Candlelight service where we will look at the idea that Jesus is the missing piece in the jigsaw that is the picture of life! All are welcome and we will, as a church family, celebrate our Saviour’s

birth on the December 25 at 10am with a family service of worship.

One of our members last Christmas experienced the trauma of having their son diagnosed with bone marrow cancer. It has been their testimony that God has been Immanuel to them and they can speak of his living presence and help through that very real issue in their lives.

In essence that is the meaning of Christmas.

God saw, cared and loved us enough to get involved, to come to us and bring us all the help we need to navigate this often broken world. It is the desire of the Church in Adelaide Road Presbyterian to offer that hope to others.

God bless you all.

17 December 2015 BLANCH Gazette 9

school | walkway ‘would be very beneficial to all concerned’

Decision is looming for pedestrian walkway  Keith Bellew kbellew@dublingazette.com

The Department of Education has said it will soon be in contact with Mary Mother of Hope National School Littlepace with a decision on its request to provide a pedestrian walkway from the school building to the adjacent shop-

ping centre.

Shopping centre owners, the school and parents of the children have all agreed that having a walkway would be very beneficial to all concerned in terms of ease of access and school drop off and pick up times.

Cllr Paul Donnelly (SF) recently tabled a successful

motion at a Castleknock/ Mulhuddart area committee meeting, calling on the council to follow up on the request which was made a number of years ago.

Cllr Donnelly said the length of time this is going on despite the agreement of all the stakeholders for this to proceed is a cause of huge

Castleknock | redevelopment

Hotel, Country Club set for major revamp Castleknock Hotel and Country Club is set for a major redevelopm e n t , wo r t h € 5 . 5 m which will increase its room capacity to 190 with the addition of 43 new rooms and three suites.

Owners FBD Property and Leisure Limited (FBDPLL) has applied for planning permission for the development, which will also see the day spa – currently located on the first floor of the hotel –move to the ground floor, with the addition of a new aerobics suite and five new treatment rooms.

The new day spa and leisure centre will have its own entrance, as well as being accessible from the hotel.

The project is also expected to create up to 100 positions during the construction phase, with a further 20 new positions created at the hotel on completion.

This will bring the total number of full-time and seasonal employees to 220.

T he additional 46 rooms planned as part

Castleknock Hotel and Country Club will increase its room capacity to 190 with the addition of 43 new rooms and three suites

of the investment will comprise of 38 standard, five superior, and three deluxe rooms.

David Kelly, chief executive of FBDPLL, said the com pany’s hotels (which include Faithlegg House Hotel, Waterford; and Tower Hotel, Waterford) have been performing ahead of projections, with Castleknock Hotel having made significant progress since the first green shoots of e c o n o m i c r e c ove r y emerged.

“With the Irish hotel sector now in full recovery mode and Dublin

leading the way in terms of visitor numbers, we are now in a position where we can expand on our existing offering.

“We know that the demand for hotel rooms in the capital is high and growing, while the supply of new rooms has stagnated in recent years.

“We are delighted to be in a position whereby we can bring an additional 46 rooms to the market in a prime Dublin location to help meet this growing demand for increased hotel capacity,” he said.

frustration for all the stakeholders.

“For the shopping centre the advantages are clear with massive footfall, for the school in terms of the safety of children into the shopping centre and for parents that they will be able to park up and go get their children from school without having to park

in the estate and along the main road and finally for the residents in adjoining estates who won’t be blocked into their estates,” he said.

He said he is baffled that, despite many attempts to get this resolved, “we seem to be hitting a brick wall with the department”.

A spokesperson from the

Department of Education said: “The application is being considered and a decision will [be issued] to the school authority in the matter shortly.”

Cllr Kieran Dennison (FG) supported the motion saying the issue is an “on-going saga” which has been raised by numerous councillors over the years to no avail.

10 BLANCH Gazette 17 December 2015

opinion | ‘changes due to take effect from january will help everyone’

2016 will see plenty of new reasons to make work pay

Minister for Justice Frances Fitzgerald, looks forward to a range of budget changes on January 1, and future Government plans

AT THIS time, it is normal for us to look back on the year that has been, and to look forward to a New Year with hope in our hearts for better prospects for us all.

One thing is sure, however: 2016 will be a better year for everybody in our country who goes out to work and for their families and for those who worked for many years and are now enjoying their later years.

In particular, January 1st will be an important day for the workers of Ireland.

Firstly, new year’s day will see the coming into effect of the first substantial rate cute to the Universal Social Charge (USC) since it was introduced by the last Government.

Reducing the USC from 7% to 5.5% on people’s earnings between €18,668 and €70,044 will make a significant difference for working families and individuals.

As local TD for Dublin Mid West, I know that this reduction in the USC will be welcomed and will help ensure that every worker in Lucan, Clondalkin and the surrounding areas will benefit from the economic recovery that is under way.

This is the second year in a row that the current Government – of which I’m proud to be a member – has reduced the tax burden on low- and middle-income earners.

If re-elected, we will get rid of the USC altogether over the lifetime of the next government.

In addition, more than 700,000 of the lowestpaid workers will be exempt from paying the USC from January.

Overall, our tax cuts reduce the tax rate on low- and middle-income earners to below 50% for the first time since 2009.

Our planned income tax cuts will create 15,000 more jobs by encouraging increased workforce

participation and entrepreneurship, growing domestic spending and consumer confidence, and encouraging foreign investment.

Tax cuts Tax cuts will encourage home our emigrants, and is key for attracting foreign investment, such as the significant investment we are now seeing being delivered in Grange Castle.

Put simply, this Government is delivering on our commitment to reduce taxes on work, to make work pay.

January 1st sees another increase in the national minimum wage.

This will be the second increase in the minimum wage under the current Government, bringing the minimum wage from €7.65 in 2011 to €9.15 in 2016.

We have increased it twice so as to incentivise work and to better protect low-paid workers.

Again, this Government is delivering on our commitment to make work pay.

A further key part of plans to make work pay involves making childcare more affordable and removing barriers to work from lack of affordable and accessible childcare.

I’m happy to report that 2016 will see the extension of free preschool for children from age three until primary school (up to an additional 50 weeks); 8,000 extra community childcare scheme places, two

Minister for Justice Frances Fitzgerald: “Ireland now has the highest economic and employment growth in the EU, and more than 135,000 jobs have been created since this Government launched the Action Plan for Jobs”

weeks’ paid paternity leave, and a €5 increase in child benefit.

We will also extend free GP care to under12s. We will recruit 2,260 extra teachers and reduce the pupil-teacher ratio from 28:1 to 27:1.

As Minister for Justice, I am recruiting a further 600 new Garda in 2016.

We are also increasing the weekly pension rate by €3. Our plans are not

just good for workers – they are good for families, for communities and the elderly.

This is only possible because of the economic recovery, which the current Government has overseen.

Growth Ireland now has the highest economic and employment growth in the EU, and more than

135,000 jobs have been created since this Government launched the Action Plan for Jobs.

Our recovery is real, and is helping to improve lives. However, I am aware that many people are still to feel the benefit.

We’ll continue to make responsible and prudent decisions to keep the economy strong and the recovery going.

With your support, we will continue with our long-term plan, to the benefit of everybody in our society.

Wishing you a merry Christmas and a peaceful and prosperous 2016.

Frances Fitzgerald Minister for Justice, and FG deputy for Dublin Mid West

17 December 2015 BLANCH Gazette 11

Gazettegallery

| the capital glows with christmas atmosphere

Emma Gallagher and fashion stylist Lisa Fitzpatrick at the annual Christmas tree lighting

Cadbury Chorus Line dancers at Grand Canel Dock launching the Cadbury Christmas Cadvent which

ceremony in the Shelbourne

will see Cadbury Christmas trucks throw open their doors to reveal a series of seasonal surprises and

Hotel. Picture: Marc O’Sullivan

events. Picture: Leon Farrell/Photocall Ireland

Festive fun enjoyed across Dublin city A

round up of festive fun happenings around town for young and old.

Reindeer, angels, chorus line

dancers and Santa’s little helpers add to the cheer in the city, with visits from Santa and his helpers to meet good girls and boys.

Hugh, Eve and Maebh Breathnach at the Shelbourne Hotel Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Picture: Marc O’Sullivan

There are delights for young and old in Dublin this Christmas as we join in the spirit of things with trees, tinsel and glad rags galore!

Nia John from St Joseph’s Nursery in Dublin 8 at the opening of the Dublin City Council live Crib at the Mansion House. Picture: Andres Poveda

Jacob Byrne at the launch of Jeremiasz Czebotar from St

Tesco’s Magical Reindeer Food

Joseph’s Nursery at the opening

Fundraiser in aid of Temple

of the Dublin City Council live Crib.

Sara Sheilch, Rebeea Mussabir and Meena Aiun at the

Street Children’s Hospital.

Picture: Andres Poveda

Shelbourne Hotel. Picture: Marc O’Sullivan

Picture: Leon Farrell/Photocall Ireland

Temple Street Hospital ambassador Miriam O’Callaghan

Santa joins children Maja Tazbir, Stephanie Mahon, Aiden O’Dea and

with Eoin Fallon and his sister Freya at Santa Claus’s arrival

Isobel Bailie at Benetton Window, St Stephen’s Green, when details were

Sarah Bartley and Isabella Bartley at the Shelbourne

at Arnotts Department Store. Picture: Conor McCabe

announced of RTE 2fm’s Xmas Appeal in aid of the ISPCC. Picture: Brian McEvoy

Hotel for it’s lighting ceremony. Picture: Marc O’Sullivan

12 BLANCH Gazette 17 December 2015

blanchGazettegallery | Who Wants to be a Thousandaire?

Anita and Ed Walsh

Prizes pile up as rivals are put to the test Tadgh Gunnel, Cathal O’Ceallaigh, Nuala Burt and Margaret O’Driscoll. Pictures: Ronan O’Sullivan

A

fun and thrilling night was had recently at the inaugural Castleknock Educate Together National School “Who Wants to be a Thousandaire” event which took place at Westmanstown Garda Club.

There were plenty of nail-biting

Jill Donnelly and Sarah Coughlan

question cliff-hangers and of course the chance for eight lucky individuals to take away €1,000 each! Members of the audience also got in on the fun with chances to take home amazing prizes in the “Thousandaire” raffle extravaganza.

The event was part of a fundraising drive to raise funds for a variety of projects within the school including developing a multi-sensory room, library books, IT equipment amongst other projects designed to assist the children’s learning.

Ali O’Leary, Carol Brady and Alison Brady

Annabelle Vaz and Serian Dushas

JP Kelly and Siobhan Roche

17 December 2015 BLANCH Gazette 13

major fundraising event for Castleknock Educate Together NS

Sarah and Randu Cooraj

Martha Dowling and Paula Hatt

Tadgh Gunnel and Aedin Ni Thuathail

Ann Allen, Valerie Deamer, Mandy O’Neill and Carmel O’Neill

Stephanie O’Brien

Gazette

14 Gazette 17 December 2015

dublinlife

diary

It’s a magical wonderland of thrilling attractions This year ’s Winter Funderland has already been very well received by excited thrill seekers nationwide.

Open until Sunday, January 11, this year sees the arrival of three brand new attractions amongst over 50 other established rides and attractions.

T hese include the

child-friendly Dumbo, Magic Circus and the thrilling Ultra Buzz.

One of the largest indoor events of its kind in Europe, Winter Funderland features thrilling roller coasters and a giant Ferris wheel alongside the well-known rides like Extreme, Snowdrop and

Take Off. With top of the range attractions catering for all ages, Bounceworld, The Fun Factory and the Crazy Worm rollercoaster will be sure to capture the hearts and imagination of those younger family members.

For those visitors who prefer to keep their heart

Fossetts Christmas Circus can be seen only at Winter Funderland at the RDS. Picture: Jolanta Rossiter

pace at an even keel, there will also be an area filled with games of skill and the chance to win one of the famous Winter Funderland soft toys.

For more information, visit www.winterfunderland.ie.

students praised for winning art Twelve Dublin students were invited to the Mansion House last week to receive prizes from Lord Mayor Criona Ni Dhalaigh (SF) for their winning pictures which are featured in the 2016 Dublin Fire Brigade Fire Safety Calendar.

Dublin Fire Brigade, as part of Fire Safety Week, invited all the primary school children in Dublin to participate in an art competition with the aim of increasing fire safety awareness among young people. The 12 best fire safety themed pictures were used to create the calendar which will be sent to all Dublin primary schools for display.

Chief fire officer Pat Fleming said: “There was a great response to the competition and we would like to thank all those that took part. With Christmas approaching it is important to be aware of the extra hazards that occur at this time of the year. Dublin Fire Brigade would like to wish you all a safe and happy Christmas.”

valuable record of 1916 events The National Library of Ireland (NLI) has

launched its 2016 programme, which includes the release of a unique digital repository of personal papers and photographs that tell the story of the momentous events of 1916.

Over 20,000 items related to the seven signatories of the Proclamation will be available online by April 2016.

An event was held in the National Library’s iconic premises on Kildare Street to mark the launch and was presented by broadcaster and historian, Dr John Bowman and Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Heather Humphreys.

Paul Shovlin, chair of the National Library’s Board, said: “In 1916, the National Library was an intellectual and social hub at the heart of Ireland and is proud to take its place in the centenary events 100 years later, through a programme built around our unparalleled collections.

“We are delighted to contribute to the commemorations by cataloguing and digitising materials that tell the story of 1916, commencing with the seven signatories of the Proclamation.”

a rare insight into world of doctors Secondary school students will be given a unique insight into the lives of a neurosurgeon, microbiologist and an orthopaedic surgeon in episode two of the RCSI’s (Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland) livestreamed video broadcast called So You Want To Be A Doctor?

The second episode in the three-part series will profile three doctors based in Dublin’s Beaumont Hospital. Viewers will be shown around the surgical theatre ahead of an operation Dr David O’Brien will perform to mend a patients back.

Dr Fidelma Fitzpatrick, senior lecturer in Microbiology and consultant microbiologist at Beaumont Hospital will discuss what exactly a microbiologist does and will also talk about antibiotics and how their overuse has led to the rise of superbugs.

Students can get involved in the broadcast as a live-streamed question and answer session will take place at the end of the episode.

Students can send in their comments and questions via Twitter and Facebook using #RCSIBeADoc.

17 December 2015 Gazette 15

Gazette

feature A DAY IN THE LIFE: Seamus Fahy, owner of Voltaire Diamonds

The diamond life is a very busy one  emma nolan

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend and so is Seamus Fahy. Gazette sat down with the owner of Voltaire Diamonds to find out about the day in the life of a diamond dealer.

The Limerick-born entrepreneur was working in the financial services industry in London before moving back to Ireland to venture into the diamond by appointment business on King Street South across from Stephen’s Green Shopping Centre.

A typical day in the life for Fahy involves liaising with international diamond traders, fine jewellers and, finally, the clients themselves.

As for his daily routine, he admits that he’s a bit of an insomniac so is always up early checking emails.

He explains that the key to developing and maintaining strong client relationships is to respond to them quickly.

“I find the quicker you get back to a customer, the more likely they are to do business with you.”

Upon arriving at the office, Fahy’s first task consists of contacting his workshops which are in Dublin and London to get a status report on jewellery that are in the process of being made.

After that he contacts

his international diamond suppliers in London and Antwerp. “I’m constantly looking for new stones – there’s all the different diamond shapes, round, brilliant, princess, cushion cut, oval cut – I’m constantly liaising with my suppliers all the time looking for diamonds that match the customers’ budgets.”

Fahy starts his appointments after this, all of which are face-to-face and Fahy and his two members of staff meet 10 to 20 clients per afternoon.

F a hy e n c o u r a g e s his customers to shop around prior to making an appointment with him so they know what they want.

“We talk to all our clients before they come into us and we tell them; number one, congratulations, number two, go to all the high street jewellers and try lots of styles so you know what you’re looking for and then come to us.”

Generally customers come with pictures of rings they want and Fahy then sets about having it made to suit their budget, “Because we don’t have the overheads of a high street shop, our prices are a lot more competitive.

Fahy then negotiates pricing and the handmade finished product

Seamus Fahy, owner, Voltaire Diamonds

will be ready three to four weeks later.

Most of Voltaire’s clients come from word of mouth and online

reviews, social media also plays a big role and takes up about an hour-anda-half of Fahy’s day. He updates the social media

accounts daily with new content.

As for downtime, the self-confessed workaholic admits he’s “always look-

ing for the next angle” and doesn’t get much, especially with his weekly trip to Voltaire’s London office, but he enjoys

socialising with friends and going for a nice meal when he gets the chance.

“I only sell the dream!” he jokes.

Gazette

16 Gazette 17 December 2015

dublinlife

the big interview

Paul Costelloe: a man with an eye for style

‘This Christmas will be very much a family occasion’  Aisling Kennedy

Famed worldwide for his beautiful catwalk creations, Paul Costelloe is a man with an eye for style.

His designs have graced catwalks from Milan to London and he was one of Princess Diana’s

favourite designers.

Flying into Dublin from his home in London to take part in interviews to promote his new jewellery range, the Richmond Collection, Costelloe is relaxed, chatty and fun.

He has a dry sense of humour, a trait that has

on occasion landed him in hot water over the years but he is an Irish rogue full of charm and character.

Arriving home to Dublin is always a welcome break he explains, as he gets to stay in his mews in Monkstown and enjoy the beautiful views all around

the area.

“I grew up in Booterstown and I moved to Monkstown when I got married. I lived in Monkstown for 25 years and I still own a house there to this day.

“What’s nice about Monkstown is that it hasn’t changed that much which I love. It has become a lot more fashionable and I have noticed a lot of extra restaurants and shops popping up, but it’s still the same. The atmosphere is still the same.

“Hewett’s newsagents is still there and the church is still there and it’s still a lovely place.”

Costelloe moved to London from Monkstown in 1999 to expand his Irish fashion business and it is a move that has served him well.

Living in the affluent suburbs of Putney with his wife, daughter and six sons, he has built up a fashion, jewellery and beauty empire.

Ireland is never far from his thoughts, however, and he explains that he named his new jewellery range after an area in his home town.

“The Richmond Collection was inspired

by Richmond Hill in Monkstow n because the collection is so elegant, understated and beautiful and that is very much the character of Monkstown. It just has those traits that

Paul Costelloe is a man with an eye for style

are what Monkstown is all about, simplicity and style. It’s not flash like Dalkey! I’ll start a war now!”

While living in London, Costelloe leases out his home in Monkstown on a short-term basis but should the mood take him he can return whenever he wants as he also owns a mews that he stays in when he returns.

“We still have the house and I do think about coming back a lot,” he explains.

“We would love to, we’d love to spend more time here. We love Richmond Hill, it really is beautiful.

This morning it looked lovely because the weather was so nice and it has some beautiful traits to it.”

Costelloe said that he believes that Irish women have come a long way in their fashion choices and are understated and more aware of how to style themselves.

“I think Irish women have a very specific and unique sense of style

now. The Irish have a very strong point of view on fashion and because women are travelling so much now they’ve infused different types of styles together. Irish women have learned that you don’t have to spend a lot to look great. It is more about spending a little more time on what you buy and mixing high street clothes with more high-end clothing. I think that has certainly happened here.”

As it is only a little over a week to Christmas, Costelloe was very much in the festive mood as he chatted to the Gazette and he said that he is looking forward to spending time with his family over the Christmas break.

“This Christmas will be very much a family occasion. We will get up in the morning, there will be about 13 of us altogether including my two daughter-in-laws and my sons, and it’s just a lovely family day.

“We will go to mass and that’s usually fairly

chaotic as we try to get everybody out on time.

“We will then head down to the church in two cars and then after mass we will come back and have a small, light breakfast, and then open up the presents. Then we will go out onto Putney Heath and the boys will play rugby and the ladies will go for a stroll with the grandchildren.

“After that we will go back and have Christmas dinner at about 5pm and then I suppose we will all end up watching some awful TV which we shouldn’t do but I know we will!”

Costelloe reminisces about spending Christmas in Dublin for many years and says: “I do miss going to the 40ft. When we lived in Monkstown we would always go to the 40ft and jump in. I hope to do it again.

“For now, London keeps me on my toes and keeps me competitive but I’ve got my 6ft 3-inch legs in both camps so I’m very lucky.”

17 December 2015 Gazette 17

cinema P22

asdfsdaf P27 gift guide P25

OUT&ABOUT Never be out of the loop on what’s happening in Dublin! Let Out&About be your guide to all that is stylish, cultural and essential across the city and beyond this week



Gazette

travel P21

Pets can you give GUY a new home?

The Coronas are part of the stellar line-up for Dublin’s New Year’s Festival

new location: indoor and outdoor entertainment from dec 30 to jan 1

New Year fest biggest yet

 Keith Bellew

Dublin’s New Year’s Festival (NYF) returns this year and is bigger than ever with a new location, both indoor and outdoor entertainment, a festival of light, world record attempt, a spoken word festival, Love Dublin events, fringe events and cultural trails across the city over December 30, 31 and January 1.

Due to Luas Cross City works the Countdown Concert has relocated from Dame Street to the Three Arena, but a new NYF Street Fest will take place in St Stephen’s Green South.

Speaking to The Gazette, organiser, Niamh Holohan said this has worked out well as the public have the option of going to the arena where there will

be a stellar line up of home grown and international talent with The Corona’s and Fatboy Slim, or to the Street Fest.

“We really wanted to make some of the events more participative as opposed to just being spectator [oriented], so we’re bringing back the Procession of Light [on December 31], which is a really enchanting and magical light parade through Dublin.

“We’re allowing people to collect lanterns on the day and all of the donations are going to Focus Ireland,” she said.

This will be followed by an attempt to break the world record for the world’s largest bodhran session, currently held

by Sydney, Australia with 980 people.

“We’re hoping to smash that record with 981, so again proceeds are going

to Focus Ireland. We really wanted to have an eclectic mix. There’s obviously people who want to go out and party and have a good time, but we want to have more of a cultural programme as well.

“We have a spoken word programme that we’re running over December 30 and 31. This is bringing together the best in Irish comedy, poetry slam and discussion/debate.

“It’s really important for us to have that dimension to the festival for people who want to enjoy day time and night time events,” she said.

She added that there is an interesting addition to this year’s festival called Story at Work which has seen live story telling taxis driving around Dublin throughout December with live

cameras and three hand-selected storytelling taxi-men with hilarious and emotional stories.

“We’re going to have a rolling film of the footage screened at the festival on December 30 as well. You can actually hop in these taxi’s for the rest of December. They’re completely kitted out with ‘bonkers’ in magnetic letters so you cant miss them,” she said.

The celebration continues on New Year’s day with Resolution Day. Events include a New Year’s Day 5km run, children’s story telling and art workshops, evening events with TED-style talks, interspersed with music, comedy and poetry at Christ Church Cathedral.

For a full programme of events visit: nyfdublin.com/

Dublin Gazette Newspapers has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs. Guy is a male five-year-old Pit bull-cross. He is quite an agile young man who will need a home with a warm, cosy bed inside and a fully secure garden.

He is a firm favourite in the rehoming centre with his handsome expressive face and bundles of charm.

With the right adopter, he will make an amazing and very loving pet.

Guy is very clever and already knows a lot of commands he has been taught by his dedicated carers. He is suitable to live with older children of 16 years of age and over.

If you think you can offer Guy a loving home, please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www. dogstrust.ie. You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE. Dogs Trust are asking members of the public to visit www.puppypromise. com and make the puppy promise.

Gazette

18 Gazette 17 December 2015

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

OUT&ABOUT 0 7.5

ye re

te Glit

New Look Silver sequin scarf €9.99

xt Ne

d€ qua

New Look Embellished collar necklace €19 New Look Gold star bag €24.99

Faux fur jack et

r €29.99

New Look

New Look Novelty jum pe

New Look Faux fur shawl collar coat €32.50

Fleur East for Lipsy Sequin mini dress €96 Lipsy Glitter caged sandals €117

Westend cami €43 Next Sequin

Next Silver sequin dress €71

Next Velvet hareem trousers €34

shopping park, blanchardstown

New Look Gold and brown strappy heel €34.99

CHRISTMAS is a time to sparkle and shine! Add a touch of opulence to your festive wardrobe by incorporating luxurious, rich textures and fabrics such as lush velvets and faux fur.

With accessories, opt for statement pieces and peep-toe glittery pumps. Complete your look with dramatic eyes by adding a dash of shimmery metallic powder.

All items available now from select stores at Westend Shopping Park, Blanchardstown.

Visit www.westend.ie westend.ie for extended Christmas opening hours, and your chance to win great prizes.

New Look Black velvet polka dot mesh panel Bodycon dress €24.99

STYLE THAT BLINGS A TOUCH OF LUXURY TO

Next Drape shirt €24; Sequin leggings €30; Ankle boots €68

New Look Silver jacquard dress €44.99

New Look Pearl drop earrings €4.99

€59.99

Heatons Sequin front multi-coloured top €25

Heatons Lurex A-line skirt €20

17 December 2015 Gazette 19

Avila Lipsett at the Gwen Stefani Urban Decay palette reveal at The Spencer Hotel

New Look Double-breasted coat €49.99

Grey

GLAD TO BE

Gazette

STYLE

Aoife Walsh at the Jameson Black Barrel Craft Market at The Bernard Shaw Pub

New Look Polo neck top €24.99

River Island Handbag €60

 pearl phelan

STYLISH Dubliners are photographed most nights of the week attending various fashion, art and cultural events across the city. We couldn’t help but notice a colour scheme amongst them: a soft shade of grey. So we hit the shops to see how we could emulate the effortlessly chic looks sported by these fashionistas!

Grey pieces will easily blend into your wardrobe, pairing well with black, burgundy and gold trims. Get the look of these smartly dressed ladies with our picks.

Aisling O’Loughlin at the launch of Ireland’s Blue Book 2016 at The Merrion

Pennys Boots €28

New Look Check apron dress €29.99

Penneys Bauble knit hat €4

Gazette

20 Gazette 17 December 2015

OUT&ABOUT

FOOD&DRINK

Executive Chef of Howth Castle Susan Bell (right) with Cormac Rowe. Picture: Angela Halpin

A stress-free Christmas dinner  Susan Bell Executive Chef of Howth Castle

One question we are always asked at Howth Castle Cookery School is when should one start cooking Christmas dinner and how do we go about organising it. My answer is always the same - the further in advance you have everything prepared, the better the day and the dinner will go.

With three children at home, the last thing I want to do on Christmas morning is spend the day in the kitchen; missing out on the kid’s excitement as they open their Christmas presents, while I worry about what time the turkey needs to go on.

I always try to prepare a meal that the whole family will enjoy, the kids as well as granny.

On December 23 I do any last minute food shopping, I buy all of the perishables like fresh

vegetables, cream and an extra carton of milk.

Then in the afternoon of Christmas Eve I start the preparation for Christmas dinner.

Many elements of the meal can be pre-prepared, vegetables can be blanched, soup prepared, potatoes can be peeled and even garnishes can be prepared in advance to add those final flourishes to this very special feast.

Starter: Homemade Parsnip and Chestnut Soup I like to begin our meal with a small bowl of homemade parsnip and chestnut soup.

This dish can be made on Christmas Eve. If you have fussy vegetable eaters in the family I would just tell them it’s soup and leave it at that.

It always amazes me that my children will eat almost any soup but will snub the same cooked vegetable.

Main: Turkey Escalopes with Ham and

Thyme Stuffing One of my favourite Christmas main courses that we teach at Howth Castle Cookery School is our Turkey Escalopes with Ham and Thyme Stuffing.

The great news is that these boned, stuffed and rolled pieces of turkey or “ballotines” can be made up to two days in advance. Keep in the fridge tightly wrapped in cling film until ready to cook.

On Christmas Day these would take up to 30 minutes max to cook and takes the worry out of trying to fit the turkey in the oven and getting the turkey on with enough time to cook through.

The Trim: Roast Root Vegetables, Creamed Brussel Sprouts and Spuds!

Peel your potatoes the day before and leave in cold water ready for mash and roasting on the day.

Creamed Brussel Sprouts are a firm favourite and again a day in advance blanch and refresh the shredded sprouts.

Then on Christmas Day all you need to do is reduce your cream and re-heat the previously cooked sprouts in the cream. Season and serve.

Roast root vegetables finished with cardamon and honey are really delicious.

The root vegetables can be prepared and diced a day in advance so Christmas Day, just put on a roasting tray and into the oven an hour before sitting down to dine.

Bread sauce can be made Christmas Day by simply heating up milk with a small onion infusing in it for flavour, then adding in your bread a little at a time until the right consistency is achieved.

Dessert has caused many arguments over the

years - who wants what.

A firm favourite and great family fail safe is Toblerone cheesecake.

Again, this can be made on Christmas Eve. Thus bringing us to Christmas Day which should be fairly hassle free, allowing lots of time

table should be considered in advance.

Glasses washed and polished, table settings and crackers ready to go with festive napkins and a lovely centre piece at the ready.

This could be a Christmas lights within a beau-

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

‘Many elements of the meal can be pre-prepared in advance to add those final flourishes to this very special feast’

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

for opening presents and family fun.

You don’t need to think about the final cooking of everything until about an hour and a half before dinner is due to be served.

Whilst the children are small I leave the setting of the dinner table to the last minute, for those with older children or adults, get them involved in setting the table in advance.

The dressing of the

tiful glass bowl dressed with holly or a festive candle framed within a Christmas wreath.

Serve the soup from the kitchen in small bowls and have everything else ready to go in serving bowls, gently warming in the oven.

These serving bowls can be placed in the middle of the table for family service style once the starter has been cleared.

Then sit down with the family and enjoy.

Susan Bell is executive chef at Howth Castle with responsibility for Howth Castle Cookery School, Deer Park Golf’s Club House menu and the estate’s newly launched “The Kitchen in the Castle” catering menu.

This new service will see cooker y school’s chefs prepare delicious party food for special events, beautifully packaged and ready to be enjoyed – and impress guests at home.

Cooks of all skill levels are invited to take part in upcoming classes at Howth Cookery School.

A number of special classes are being presented including ‘Christmas Foodie Gifts’ and ‘Preparing the Perfect C h r i s t m a s D i n n e r ’.

Christmas Gift Vouchers are also available.

Howth Castle Cookery School, Howth Castle, County Dublin.

See howthcastlecookeryschool.ie or call 01 839 6182.

17 December 2015 Gazette 21

travel treats: surprise your loved ones this christmas

Think outside the box and give the gift of travel

 ian begley

Christmas presents – it’s difficult to continue to surprise and please every year. There are only so many sets of bath salts and lotions, pairs of socks and bottles of wine that you can buy – and giving money is just a tad impersonal.

So what to do? Have you thought about giving the gift of travel this Christmas? What better way to get through the dark and dreary winter than looking forward to a holiday or short break in the New Year?

Who wouldn’t love a trip to a European city for a long weekend or a week in the sun, whether it’s a romantic trip to Rome, a shopping trip to Milan, a weekend of culture in Berlin, Lisbon or Madrid,

or even a beach break in the Canary Islands.

Abbey Travel are now offering a three-night trip to Madrid for Valentine’s weekend from €155, and a seven-night stay in Fuerteventura for €205 in January.

Gazette

TRAVEL

fastTRAVEL

Makes some memories with a luxurious river cruise

If you fancy a memorable, unique getaway in 2016,

then a luxurious river cruise along some of Europe’s many historic rivers may be the perfect holiday for you and your family.

One of the range of cruises on offer, organised by Travel Department, include a journey along the River Seine and Normandy, between March and October for eight nights from €1,599pp.

Spend your first night in a city centre hotel in Paris and enjoy a guided city tour and welcome dinner with the group before commencing your cruise.

Travelling on board the MS Amadeus Diamond, you will then experience the elegance of a boutique hotel as you’re transported along the Seine.

On March 31 or June 25, you can sail along the Danube for six nights from €1,299pp. Discover the highlights of the Danube, dotted along the stretch

Delight

of river from Germany to Hungary. Spend your first

For parents looking to surprise the kids with an extra treat on Christmas Day imagine the delight on their faces if they found out they were going to meet Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck on a magical trip to Disneyland Paris.

A three-night stay for a family of two adults and two kids under seven starts at €528, including three nights staying at Disney’s Santa Fe Hotel with free half-board meals and three days park

night in a city centre hotel in Munich, before travelling to the pretty port town of Passau and commencing your cruise.

An additional cruise along the river Danube is on offer on April 4 and June 29 for five nights from €1029pp. For more information about these deals visit www.traveldepartment.ie.

The Plaza Mayor in Madrid

tickets.

Treat the sports fan in your life to a trip to see their favourite team. The most popular are Liverpool and Manchester United packages. Onenight hotel and match ticket packages to Pre-

miership matches start from €169 per person.

Still unsure? Abbey Travel gift vouchers are a great alternative.

Call Abbey Travel on 01 8047100 for more information or book online at www.abbeytravel.ie.

Live the high life and hit the slopes this winter  ian begley

Flying solo doesn’t mean that you can’t have an unforgettable ski holiday away.

Highlife Ski & Snowboard is offering a range of ski chalet holidays in France for those wanting to embrace a solo adventure.

The set-up of a Highlife getaway offers the perfect environment for socialising and meeting your fellow snow bunnies and to ensure you can look forward to the best holiday at the right price, Highlife have waived single supplements to Chalet Carine in Meribel during the weeks commencing from now until April 10.

As you arrive in the resort you will be treated to a drinks reception in the comfort of your chalet, providing the ideal oppor-

tunity to meet and get to know other guests over a glass of vin chaud (hot wine).

During daylight hours, take advantage of Highlife’s complimentary ski discovery tours where the Highlife team will be available to answer your questions and will also arm you with a route map that includes detailed instructions to make sure you get to see the best of the resorts and ski areas, the best runs and incredible views from the mountain tops.

Return to your chalet where the Highlife chef and host will prepare afternoon treats with homemade cakes to be enjoyed over a post-ski catch-up. In the evenings, you can all sit down to a delicious three-course meal with a selection of good wines, rounded off with digestifs and

a cheese board in front of the roaring log fire.

Prices for a solo getaway start from just €795 per person (for December date) or €695 per person (for April date).

For more information on Highlife’s range of ski chalet holidays in France, visit www. highlife.ie or call 01-6771100.

Have an unforgettable ski holiday away in Meribel, France

Gazette

22 Gazette 17 December 2015

OUT&ABOUT

CINEMA

netflix fix

Have a very, very Murray Christmas IF YOU are on the lookout for something to get you into the festive spirit, then the answer might be on a cinema screen. This year Netflix has released what appears to be the most amount of Christmas that you could possibly cram into a one hour slot, in the shape of A Very Murray Christmas.

Directed by Sofia Coppola and starring Bill Murray (who worked together on the stunning 2003 Lost in Translation), this one-off special casts Murray as himself, hosting a star-studded cabaret on Christmas Eve in New York City that goes terribly wrong. A freak snowstorm shuts the city down, and with no audience, a desolate Murray tries to host the live broadcast by himself, before admitting defeat and retreating to the hotel bar – where luckily a bit of Christmas magic is about to take place.

With warm colours and many, many famous faces (including Paul Shaffer, George Clooney, Michael Cera, Miley Cyrus, Chris Rock, and Jason

Legendary Lily Tomlin plays Elle, a poet and academic, who is grieving the recent death of her partner who goes on an impromptu road

Schwartzman) A Very Murray Christmas man-

trip with her pregnant teenage grand-daughter

ages to continue that long-standing tradition of watching celebrities poke some fun at themselves. The story quickly descends into back to back renditions of festive classics, some of which work better than others (Fairytale of New York probably should have stayed a duet).

There’s nothing beyond the light entertainment, but sometimes that is all you need. If ever there was a time and a place for such a silly romp, it’s Christmas.

Verdict: 6/10

Netflix’s A Very Murray Christmas is directed

by Sofia Coppola and starring Bill Murray and includes many famous faces

grandma: a thought-provoking comedy drama

Unfettered Tomlin takes the road less travelled There is no escaping Lily Tomlin’s legendary status. With decades of work in cinema, TV, and in stage productions, the 76-year-old star is famed for her uniquely subversive style of comedy.

Tomlin’s infamous expletive-fuelled run-in with director David O Wilson on the set of I Heart Huckabees some years ago showcased another side to the veteran actor.

Full of furious acerbicism, the viral video captured somebody who was driven to hostility through exasperation – and you can imagine that this is exactly what Tomlin could connect to in Grandma.

 Dave phillips

Tomlin plays Elle, a poet and academic, who is grieving the recent death of her partner.

When Elle’s teenage grand-daughter, Sage (Julia Garner), shows up pregnant and in need of cash for a termination, the two embark on an impromptu road trip that forces long-underlying contentions in each of their lives to be faced.

In case you haven’t guessed, you can dispel

any thoughts of doilies and purple rinses. Writer and director Paul Weitz (About a Boy) has a very different image of growing older – a more grounded and holistic view that encompasses the manifold and often contradictory impulses that make up a human being.

Elle is a character that is absolutely unfettered, with no filter between her thoughts and the expression of them. But she is also unfettered in the sense that she is now aimless, and for the first time in years forced to think about who she wants to be.

Can the lesbian poet, the shrewd academic, the wayward traveller, the

loving mother, and the nurturing grandmother all co-exist?

Grandma starts out slow and clumsy with Tomlin caustically dismissing so many of the first-world problems that irk us in the modern world.

Elle mischievously tips the sacred cows of civilisation and offers a kind of comeuppanceby-proxy for the viewer, though it feels more like shooting fish in a barrel.

Thankfully if you stay a little while with Grandma, you will find there is a wealth of depth just below the surface.

Any clunkiness in the comedy dynamic between Tomlin and

Garner dissolves once we begin to meet other characters from Elle’s past and present – including a particularly outstanding scene with Sam Elliott, who plays one of Elle’s old flames.

As a bittersweet comedy drama, this film will sadly end up being lost amid the Christmas cinema bustle, but it will no doubt receive award recognition for Tomlin.

While it may not offer a conventional subject matter or narrative, Grandma is one of the most thought-provoking and authentically human character studies on screens this year.

Verdict: 8/10

17 December 2015 Gazette 23

Gazette

HEALTH detox: drinks packed with live enzymes, vitamins, minerals

Juice up your body’s cleansing Tis the season for over indulgence, but why wait till January to start the detox?

The juice business in Ireland has been booming over the last year but ahead of the curve was Paula Heaney when she set up Skinny Malinkys in 2013 with the aim of making healthy, nourishing juice accessible to as many people as possible.

Currently the premier raw cold-pressed juice company is based

in Northern Ireland, but Paula Heaney has recently started to trade in the Republic: “While initially we only delivered their fresh juices within a three-mile radius of the Titanic Quarter in Belfast, we have now expanded our offering to the UK and Ireland. We provide free delivery across Ireland.’’

The juices are raw, unpasteurised and unadulterated, packed with live enzymes, vita-

mins, trace minerals and other vital elements to your health.

Paula explains the reasons to juice: “Juice cleansing is the ideal way to reset your body and kick-start a healthy new you. Living off these liquid nutrients gives your digestive system a well earned break.’’

A little known fact is that solid foods can take up to 10 hours of digestion before it’s nutrients become available to

the cells in your body. A freshly pressed raw juice on the other hand will provide your body with nutrients immediately.

“This means that when you drink the juices your cells will get nourished in approximately 15 minutes with little to no effort on your body to digest.

“Whilst many associate juice cleansing as a quick fix for weight loss and beating the bloat, there are many more long-term health benefits to cleans-

ing. By introducing daily juices into your lifestyle, they can help control diseases, such as Eczema, Psoriasis, Urticaria, Rosacea and acne.

“Our bodies should always be more alkaline than acidic, however when we eat consume processed foods, sugar, alcohol and even coffee we inadvertently create an acidic environment within our body.

“However by cleansing we can help to reduce

The juice business in Ireland has been booming

and remove these toxins and make your body a much more healthy environment,” she says.

Skinny Malinkys provide a range of juice packages from the full three to five-day juice cleanses,

consisting of six juices per day, to a “juice till dinner” package, for those who might not fathom three days with no food.

For more information visit www.skinnymalinkys.com.

Gazette

24 Gazette 17 December 2015

OUT&ABOUT

Apple TV 32GB €179/64GB €229 Although people are increasingly ditching watching televisions (yes, we mean that dusty, unloved thing in the corner of the room) to go for all-digital content, Apple may have just the thing to tempt you back to the big(ger) screen – the Apple TV gizmo (available online at www.apple.com). From streaming all your favourite digital channels to an apps explosion that’s gathering pace, the Apple TV brings games, apps and – of course – TV shows together into this small gadget that packs quite a punch.

Amazon Fire HD 8” tablet, 8GB €180 Although there are ever more powerful tablets coming on the market, many people just want something to cover the basics – something handy to maybe play a few games, watch their favourite shows

and films on, and to browse their favourite sites on in a cosy chair. Amazon’s tablets have been getting better and better, with its light weight – 300gm – creating a very portable book and media viewer.

LET’S

Tech A LOOK

PlayStation 4 Star Wars Battlefront 1TB bundle C.€400 With Star Wars fever once again sweeping in to cinema screens and pop culture, fans will have a blast – literally – with this acclaimed shooter (Cert 16, online multiplayer only gaming). The chance to play for the Empire or the Rebels (and step into the shoes of some much-loved heroes and villains) make this great fun.

XBox One Fifa 16 500GB bundle C.€350 There are a number of console ‘bundle’ deals to kick about at the moment, but Microsoft and footie fans sure to shoot straight for this one. Pick up a XBO console with 500GB storage and the latest in the smash-hit Fifa series (now including women’s teams, at long last) for about €350, with many retailers adding another game for €50 extra.

With its decent specs for its budget price, as well as access to Amazon’s vast range of content the Fire HD would make a great gift or a handy second tablet for the whole family to use

 shane dillon

GADGETS and games are a staple part of Christmas gifts these days – so what better time to consider some of the most popular (and useful) tech this season?

Whether looking to trade up your phone, or get something useful for a loved one – or something that the kids (and the young-at-heart) will love, here’re a range of great gifts that won’t break the bank ...

Motorola G Third gen C.€140 We’ve mentioned the Moto G series of budget phones before, but for our – and your – money, they represent an awful lot of bang for your buck, making them a great pay-asyou-go present this Christmas.

Motorola surprised everyone when they launched the original Moto G a few years ago, with the award-winning budget Android phone offering features and power that rivalled significantly more expensive phones. Since then, the updated Moto G has further refined its feature set and design, making it once again a great (and pocket friendly) phone to recommend.

17 December 2015 Gazette 25

ay Gwen Urban Dec dow €46 Stefani eyesha

Gazette

GIFT GUIDE Ireland Littlewoods n journal €13 Happy Jackso

Lauryn Rose Jewellery to support The LauraLynn Foundation Online retailer and fashion jewellery specialist Lauryn Rose has teamed up with children’s hospice The LauraLynn Foundation. The Think of Me collection will see 10% of all sales donated to the hospice. For further information, and the range, see www.laurynrose.com.

For him, her and you a healthier year ahead, right? Of course!

These accessories may help ... But for those looking to feel good without all that exercise malarky, we can point you towards some silky-smooth nightwear.

And, last but definitely not least, we have a great way to do some good this Christmas, and beyond, thanks to a lovely way for your gift to help children’s hospice, The LauraLynn Foundation.

RunLogic Led lenser headlamp €30

CHRISTMAS is but a cracker’s length away – but don’t panic if you’re still looking for a great gift for your nearest and dearest (or even if you’re just looking for a treat for yourself).

In addition to some “his” or “hers” gift ideas, this week we’re also considering some healthy gifts, as we all know that New Year resolutions are just around the corner, too, and we all want to have

RunLogic

.50

Weir & Sons Henry London watch €129

www.skinboosters.ie Thavma lift anti-wrinkle cream €95

Nuxe Nuxellence anti-aging men’s fluid €38

Nivea M en’s ultim ate sports

kit €50

Topdrawer Silk sleep wear From €105 Bed linen specialists Topdrawer now stock a range of luxury silk sleep and lounge wear, with classic French designs inspiring the beautiful range of dressing gowns, nighties and more.

FlipBelt €32

RunLogic Garmin forerunner watch €350 See store at Smock Alley, Temple Bar

26 blanch gazette 17 December 2015

blanchCLASSIFIEDS DVD TRANSFERS

ANNOUNCEMENT We can now officially accept planning & legal notices from all four County Councils in greater Dublin region ¡ Dublin City ¡ Dun Laoghaire South Dublin ¡ Fingal

¡ Standard rate from ₏75 + VAT ¡ Payment in advance

Ph. 01 601 0255

ďƒźPhotos & Slides converted to DVD ďƒźCineFilms ďƒźVideo & Camera Tapes ďƒźMusic & Titles added

Send CV to cv@clsrecruitment.ie

-PDLTNJUIT (MBTT "MBSNT "MM 8JOEPX BOE %PPS 3FQBJST 4MJEJOH EPPS USBDLT XIFFMT IBOEMFT "MM UZQFT PG %PPS 8JOEPX )BOEMFT BOE )JOHFT

1PJOU 617$ %PPS -PDLJOH 4ZTUFNT 0/-: Ăť

ď Ž ď Ž ď Ž ď Ž ď Ž

*OUSVEFS "MBSN 4ZTUFNT '30. Ăť "OUJ 4OBQ -PDLT 0/-: Ăť %PPS B)BOEMFT 0/-: Ăť -FUUFSCPYFT Ăť

"MM BCPWF TVQQMJFE BOE ĂśUUFE â—? "MM $SFEJU $BSET "DDFQUFE

$BMM TUFQIFO OPX PO

PROMOTEyourSCHOOL

planning Notice

te l l u s a b o u t y o u r s c h oo l’ s e v e n ts

Fingal COUNTY COUNCIL

c o n t a c t t h e G a z ette c a l l 6 0 1 0 2 4 0

Permission is sought for widening of the access driveway to the side of 13 Church Avenue, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15 to 6.0m and provision of a detached, two storey over part basement level residential dwelling house together with ancillar y site works, off street parking and services connections at the site to the rear of 13 Church Avenue, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15.

For Aidan & Esther Browne. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (â‚Ź20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

keep it green

recycle responsibly

25748

support your

COMMUNITY

î ´

LEGAL & PLANNING APPLICATION

Electricians, Apprentice Electricians, Plumbers, Carpenters, Joiners, Groundworkers, Scaolders, General and Skilled Operatives, Plasterer’s, Tilers, Blocklayers, SLG & TM Operatives.

All Plant & MEWP Operators, all Tradesmen & All Professional Construction sta required for Dublin.

Pracownicy Budowlani z safe passem potrzebni.

Call the Gazette to advertise in your local area.

60 10 240

17 December 2015 blanch gazette 27

blanchCLASSIFIEDS XJOUFS

planning Notice

Phone: Edward on 01 6230308 OR 087 2659931 www.concreteandpaving.com

1 Castle Crescent, Clondlakin, Dublin 22.

Phone: (01) 457 2613.

Phone/Fax: (01) 457 5790 Email: gmtv@eircom.net Repair Service for all brands of TV Supply & fit free to air satellite

4"-&

● Paving ● Imprint Concrete ● Indian Sandstone ● Granite ● Gravel ● Cleaning & Sealing ● Walls & Features ● Patios & Driveways ● Natural Stone Slabs ● Free Estimates

DRIVEWAYS FROM €800 WE are fully insured and registered with over 20 years’ experience. All work is guaranteed.

No payment required until work is completed

GET UP TO



35% OFF

UPVC ENERGY ‘A-RATED’ WINDOWS AND DOORS

Repairs to Laptops / PCs Screen Replacements to Laptops, Ipads, iPhones etc

VISIT OUR SHOWROOMS IN LUCAN VILLAGE



SERVICE CENTRE SONY•PHILIPS•SAMSUNG•PANASONIC•LG•WALKER

(O PPOSITE U LSTER B ANK



ON THE BRIDGE )

W EIR R ETAIL C ENTRE , 40 H ILLS M ILL I NDUSTRIAL E STATE , L UCAN V ILLAGE , C O . D UBLIN .

T EL : 6217639

Gutters cleaned & sealed from

€45

Fingal COUNTY COUNCIL

I Brian Farrell intend to apply for planning permission at No. 4 Luttrell Park Green, Carpenterstown, Dublin 15.

The development will consist of the construction of new two storey extension to the rear of existing dwelling, and a single storey porch extension to the front, together with all associated site works. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours (9.30-16.30 Monday to Friday). A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the Planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. The Planning Authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

25736

planning Notice

Our fascias and cladding are available in a wide range of colours and styles to match your property. You can choose from decorative Ogee guttering and fascias or a plain style, we can supply all.

Our roofline components protect your home from the elements, our high quality range will restore your home to its former glory while preventing further damage due ingress of water, bird nesting or rotten wood.

New roofs, Flat roofs, Roof repairs, Chimneys rebuilt or repointed, UPVC fascias and soffits, Guttering and downpipes - Cladding.

Southside / Northside:

01-5138922 – 085 713 0028 Dublin & Surrounding areas covered.

Fingal COUNTY COUNCIL

dL `jd djG& z `L 6RL&d y9j z GG ÷ jj9 9MdnG j9RM `&#n & Rn` 6& j9M1 Rdjd ƢƢü

Ƽƾ Ƅ ƍ 1Ə ƍ ƎƄƄ GG Ƒ ƍƈ  ^ƈƅƊ Ɛ Ɔ ƍƏ ƇƆ ƈ Ƌ Ɨ ƒƆ Ɔ ƆƏ ƕ ÷ ƌ Ɔƕ

0`&& _nRj j9RMd

 ƋƋ Ɠ ƏƊ ƅ ƏƏƈƆƗ ƑƐ Ɛ Ɛ Ɔ ƈ Ɔ Ɛ Ɛ Ɨ ƏƗ L ƂƆƉƄë ƞƢơ ơƟƽ ƼƼƾƠ ƞƾƟ ÕƽƾƟơÕ ƑƑƑê Ɗ ƍƎ ƃ ƎƉƄƑ ƍƊ ƊƄ êƆƄ Ɔ ƅ Ɗ ƍƎ ƃ ƎƉƄƑ ƍƊ ƊƄ êƆƄ

ơƠü

#9d RnMj ƓƈƐ Ɛ ƈ ƗƒƆƏƐ

DUBLIN Gazette newspaper HAVE OVER 280,000* READERS EACH WEEK *Publishers Statement



Got a story? we want to know!

Call our news team on 60 10 240 and SELECT OPTION 2

or email news@dublingazette.com

advertise your business to our readers call 01 60 10 240

I, Eamon Dolan, intend to apply to the above Council for Permission for alterations and extension to the front of existing dwelling and all associated siteworks in accordance with plans and documents submitted at No.2 Clonsilla Park, Blanchardstown, Dublin 15.The Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during the public opening hours of 9.30 16.30 Monday – Friday at Fingal County Council, and a submission or observation in relation to the Application may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of a fee of €20, within the period of 5 weeks,beginning on the date of receipt by Fingal County Council of the Application, and such submissions or observations will be considered by the Planning Authority in making a decision on the application.The planning authority may grant permission subject to or without conditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

25737

FOLLOW US TODAY ON OUR SOCIAL NETWORK

Gazette

28 gazette 17 December 2015

SPORT

FastSport O’Donoghue on shortlist for world award: Templeogue’S Shane O’Donoghue has been named on the five-person shortlist for hockey’s World Rising Star player of the year award following a superb 2015.

The former Glenanne and UCD midfielder helped Ireland qualify for the Olympic Games for the first time since 1908 while he also played a key role in Ireland’s run to bronze at the European Championships, the best Irish finish in the history of the event.

On the club front, he helped KHC Dragons win the Belgian league in devastating fashion to cap an incredible year. He is up against players from Australia, India, Canada and Germany.

He is one of two Irish players in the mix for the awards with David Harte up for the goalkeeper of the year nomination having won player of the tournament at three separate events in the past 12 months.

hockey: duke leads students to important national league win

UCD back in playoff shake-up  sport@dublingazette.com

DEIRDRE Duke’s double saw UCD claim their fourth win of the women’s EY Hockey League campaign as they saw off Ards 3-1 in the second half of their tie in Belf-

ield.

She scored in the second minute of the tie when the impressive Aisling Naughton got to the baseline and set up her strike partner for a simple finish.

Ards replied in kind

when they won a corner that Hannah Coey scored from in the second phase. And the Ulster side pushed on in the second quarter to pin the hosts back for decent portions of the game.

UCD, however, bossed

UCD’s Deirdre Duke celebrates making it 3-1. Picture: Adrian Boehm

Pembroke’s Kylie Deverell, right, takes on Railway Union’s Sarah Canning

the third quarter and got back in front from a Katie Mullan drag-flick. Duke made the game safe with Naughton again to the fore. She drove into the circle and picked out the Irish international for 3-1.

Ards, aided by a UCD sin-binning, pushed forward in the last quarter but found Mullan in excellent form to deny many attacks while Sarah Robinson made a key interception to keep out the lively Chloe Brown.

Sara Twomey also made a big impact on her return from injury.

Elsewhere, Pembroke held Railway Union at bay to earn a point at Serpentine Avenue in the Dublin 4 derby with Stella Davis having a

fine game in the face of a heavy amount of work.

Railway coach Colm Blennerhassett, meanwhile, will rue a series of missed penalty corner chances that meant his side dropped a couple of points in their title pursuit.

Three first half corners were denied with Davis, Erika Hinkson and Sarah Clarke to the fore while the goalkeeper made some more good saves from play as Railway’s full press worked well but they could not finish off their openings.

There was respite of sorts when Emma Smyth took a yellow card in the third quarter while another Railway corner went a begging with Jilly Collins charging it down.

Pembroke upped their work rate in the closing quarter and had their best chance when Maeve Ott went close but they will probably be the happier of the two with the draw.

Leaders Hermes were not in action due to the weather conditions with their game against UCC postponed. Nonetheless, their lead at the top was not overly affected with third place Ulster Elks losing 2-1 at home against Pegasus and second place Railway drawing.

Hermes face Railway in another Dublin derby next Saturday in the final round of matches before Christmas while UCD play Pembroke in another derby.

St Vincent’s drown opposition in water polo sweep  sport@dublingazette.com

The St Vincent’s Leinster senior cup winning team

ST VINCENT’S Water Polo Club proved the dominant force at the Leinster Water Polo Cup Finals for 2015, winning six of the seven finals.

The Marino club claimed the men’s Leinster Senior Cup for the third year in succession with a thrilling 9-6 win over North Dublin last week.

The end of the first quarter was 1 all with goals from Adam Caulfield from St Vincent’s and Karl Wilkes from North Dublin.

But, after that closely fought

opening, Vincent’s made their move in the second quarter as they built a 5-2 lead with goals from Damiano Costa, Eoin Bridgeman, and two goals from Brian Murphy from St Vincent’s and a goal from Steve Nolan from North Dublin.

The third quarter saw North Dublin came back with two goals from Brendan Cope and a goal from Jordi Albert for North Dublin leaving the score at five goals each and a reply.

Bridgeman replied, though, to give St Vincent’s leaving the score 6-5 for St Vincent’s going into the last quarter. And the

Marino side pulled away in the the fourth quarter with another three goals from Bridgeman, Shane Drumm and Eoin Nolan They had already claimed the Leinster Division 3 cup for men.

In addition, they were winners of the four junior cups for both boys and girls at Under-19 and Under-16 level. The St Vincent’s senior ladies teams were also awarded the Leinster Senior Ladies Cup as their opponents withdrew at the last minute.

Away from the pool, St Vincent’s have also raised over €3,000 for Temple Street Hos-

pital from bag packs in Tesco Clear Water in Finglas over the last 12 months.

The club are holding a bag pack on Saturday, December 19 in Tesco Clear Water in aid of Temple Street Hospital and support would be gratefully appreciated.

Leinster Water Polo have been organising matches and leagues in Dublin from the 1880s and have one of the oldest water polo cups in Europe which dates 1881 and is still being presented to the winning ream in the Leinster Senior Cup.

17 December 2015 gazette 29

Gazette

Just 13 seconds to conquer the world Dubliner Conor McGregor fulfilled all the hype in the most comprehensive fashion possible as he claimed the UFC’s featherweight title with a stunning knock-out of Jose Aldo  nathan kelly

sport@dublingazette.com

13 SECONDS. That is all it took for Dublin’s Conor McGregor to become the undisputed, unified, UFC featherweight champion of the world.

Whether it was a seat in the MGM Garden Arena, or a barstool in Dublin, or the sofa at home, people had barely settled into their seats when the Notorious knocked Jose Aldo to the floor.

After a couple of early swing and misses from both fighters in the opening seconds, the Brazilian, and undefeated champion of 10 years threw out a right-jab. In doing so, he left that side of his chin exposed and McGregor landed one of his devas-

tating left-hooks and Aldo collapsed to the canvas, catching the Dubliner with a decent right-hook on the way down.

With Aldo dow n, McGregor took his chance and let two clinical hammer punches rain down on his opponent before referee John McCarthy stepped in and ended the bout.

The Las Vegas crowd, w h i c h l o o ke d a n d sounded about 80% Irish, erupted as months of talk was finally backed up by a ferocious walk.

Speaking in the ring afterwards, the ever-confident and assured Irishman was perhaps more humble than ever before.

“Again, nobody can take that left-hand shot,” he said. “But I tell you, he’s powerful and he’s

Conor McGregor, the new world champion

fast. But precision beats power, and timing beats speed, and that’s what you saw there.

“I feel for Jose, he was a phenomenal champion.

We deserved to go a little bit longer but I still feel at the end of the day, precision beats power and timing beats speed every day of the week so it would have happened sooner or later.”

What McGregor does next is already the subject of much debate. Immediately after Sunday morning’s fight, Aldo suggested a rematch.

However, the next contender in the 145lbs featherweight division would more likely to be Frankie Edgar, who knocked out Chad Mendes the night before in the main-event of the Ultimate Fighter

finale.

Another likely option for the 27-year-old is a move up to the Lightweight Division, a weight which many feel would be more natural to his 5’9” frame.

In the UFC 194 postfight press conference, unusually but unsurpris-

does move up to 155lbs, the featherweight belt will remain in his hands. “I tell you one thing that won’t be happening.

“If I go up to that lightweight division there’s no way in hell I’m vacating my belt. That’s not happening.

“There’ll be a belt on

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

‘Precision beats power and timing beats speeds and that’s what you saw there’ Conor McGregor

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

ingly, the Notorious practically ran the event itself, without a moderator.

Again, he was respectful towards Aldo and spoke about the possibility of moving up to the 155lbs lightweight division.

When asked, having beaten Aldo, if he now believed he was the best pound-for-pound fighter in the sport, McGregor answered: “I believe so.

I believe there are many great fighters.

“There are many people who do great things but when you combine it all together, the whole package, the whole animal that is the fight game.

“I don’t think there is anyone who does it better than me. I think I am the pound-for-pound number one.”

Having first held an interim title since July and now the unified title, the SBG fighter insisted if he

one shoulder and a belt on the other shoulder. I understand why previously they would have fighters do that [vacate titles], because many fighters don’t fight as frequently as I do; tell me how many fights I’ve had in the past year, I’m busy, I stay active, I’m fresh. So when I go up and take that lightweight belt I will still be the featherweight champion.”

On the possibility of title-defence in Dublin, he didn’t hide his ambition.

“If they offer me Croke Park, or they offer me the football stadium, you’re damn right I’m going to take it,” he said.

On whether his profile in the UFC means he can demand it, he added: “Maybe I can these days, but for now I’m going to sit back in the shadows for Christmas and plot, then I’ll be back in the New Year with something.”

FastSport

Garth and Delany called up to Aussie pro league CRICKET stars Kim Garth and Laura Delany have joined up with the Hobart Hurricaines and Perth Scorchers respectively, as the pair were given the opportunity to join the women’s Big Bash League in Australia as part of their rookie programme.

Both players were nominated for the rookie programme by Cricket Ireland and selected after performances in the ICC World T20 Qualifiers in Thailand and headed straight to Australia instead of returning home with the rest of the squad.

Mount Merrion’s Garth travelled on to Hobart where she joins up with Heather Knight’s Hurricaines squad, while Delany, who went to school at Loreto Beaufort has joined up with England’s Charlotte Edwards in Perth.

Garth spoke of her excitement about the program at her first training session with the Hobart Hurricanes this week.

“I’m really excited to join the Hurricanes this summer and be part of a professional set up. Getting to play and train with some of the best players in the world and see how they operate is also something I am really looking forward to.”

Garth will join players from China, Hong Kong, Papua New Guinea, Ireland, Scotland, Thailand and the Netherlands in the eight Rebel WBBL clubs as part of a joint initiative between Cricket Australia (CA) and International Cricket Council (ICC) development program for emerging players in non-traditional cricket countries.

The players were selected following the recent ICC Women’s World T20 Qualifier in Thailand.

The programme will provide the players with an opportunity to be involved in the rebel WBBL and be exposed to elite cricket. It also serves as important preparation for players from Ireland, who have qualified for the 2016 ICC Women’s World T20 to be held in India.

Each of the rookie players will train with their Rebel WBBL club during a two-week placement and attend home matches during that period.

In the event of an injury to a contracted player, Rebel WBBL clubs will be permitted to use their Rookie as a local replacement player, which would not contribute to the club’s overseas player limit.

Gazette

30 BLANCH gazette 17 December 2015

SPORT

FastSport

awards: local quintet honoured for superb sporting years

Littlepace club hosts big annual Christmas Fair ERIN Go Bragh’s Christmas Fair and players awards day proved a huge success as the Dublin 15 club hosted a packed day’s worth of activities.

The day started out at 12 with the club’s annual sponsored walk with Santa Claus taking in a visit to the boys and girls of the Clonee/ Litlepace/Ongar based club.

There was a disco, face painting and magic tricks for the kids indoors and a penalty shootout outside on the astro of the Castaheaney Community Centre with some stalls for the adults to pick up some Christmas presents also.

The day ended with the club’s underage presentations and awards. The huge number of children at attendance in the hall reflects how the club has grown since its arrival to the area in 2005.

It lays the perfect base for 2016 when the club will be fielding underage teams from Under-8 up to minor as well as junior football, camogie and hurling teams.

At the awards night, Brian O’Sullivan won the Robert Stephens Young Sports Person of the year. The trophy was donated by the Stephens family in memory of club co-founding member Robert who passed away earlier this year.

Robert with Cecil and Martin Stephens, Ollie Shanley, Joe Geraghty, Jim Whittaker and K Wiliamson organised the club in 1986 in Dromheath, moving to Porterstown Park before the club’s arrival to its home in 2005.

O’Sullivan is pictured with the Robert Stephens Young Sportsperson of the Year Award, along with his parents Jerry and Julie and members of the Stephens family.

Corduff see off McKelvey in Farrell Cup CORDUFF FC got through the first round of the Under-17 Premier/A Mary Farrell Cup with a 3-2 win over McKelvey Celtic.

The side had previously been on the

wrong end of a 6-2 defeat to the same side in the league but they got off to a flying start with goals from Jake Ferns and Adam Little in the first half.

Conan Rooney added a third in the second half and despite McKelvey pulling two goals back, the Blanch side held on for the win.

The sports people honoured by the local council last week

The stars of Mulhuddart sport@dublingazette.com

A SPECIAL award ceremony was held last week in the community centre as Mulhuddart’s sports stars were celebrated by their local community in the presence of the Mayor of Fingal, David O’Connor and Fingal County Council chief executive Paul Reid.

The award ceremony celebrated the achievements of five local sports stars who have been successful on a national a nd world

stage and who have contributed greatly to their local community.

Proud families, friends and supporters joined in the celebration of the stars from the field of Special Olympics, wheelchair table tennis, kickboxing and boxing who were presented with a special Fingal Council award and certificate honouring their achievements.

Among the recipients were two stars of Special Olympics LJ Ryan of Dromheath, a gold and silver in athletics at

new manager Erin Go Bragh seeking hurling boss for 2016 erin Go Bragh are seeking a new management team for the 2016 season for their AHL7 hurling team as they look to build on the quick strides in recent times.

The side reached a championship final in 2012 and winning leagues in 2013 and 2014 before retaining Division 7 status.

Expressions of interest and details of prior experience to club secretary Paul Gilmartin at Secretary.eringobragh.dublin@gaa.ie or 086 6012523.

the national Games.

His teammate, Aaron Barrett, was also a gold medalist in 25m while another was Dromheath resident, Kathleen Reynolds, a former Beijing Paralympian and national title holder in wheelchair table Tennis.

Another Dromheath resident was Shaneen Flynn, the WAKO 2014 kickboxing world champion and this year’s European and national title holder.

For Flynn, it follows a brilliant 2014 in which

she won a world kickboxing title in Rimini in Italy while she also represented Ireland in boxing earlier in the year.

Along with Fly nn, her club colleague at the Global Kickboxing club, Dylan Tang, a former boxing national title holder, who won numerous Dublin titles.

He has represented his club in Azerbaijan and London to great success in the past and now hopes to bring his knowledge to the future young boxers in Mul-

huddart.

Speaking at the event, Paul Reid, chief executive, Fingal County Council said: “This is a very important evening, and it is nice to be able to celebrate local heroes in this way.”

“It was great to be part of this special occasion”, said Caitriona Geraghty, Fingal sports development officer, “to support Dromheath Resident Association Chairperson, Rose Emmett, who instigated the event in hosting the evening.”

17 December 2015 BLANCH gazette 31

Gazette

football: castleknock under-21s fall to saints

Club Noticeboard st brigid’s CONGRATULATIONS to our U-21 foot-

our €15,000 jackpot still in place. Our

ball team, the U-21 B football champi-

reserve is now €11,800.

ons 2015. St Brigid’s beat Castleknock

Be sure to have your envelopes in

in the local derby in Russell Park on

for the last chance to win the jackpot

Saturday evening. Well done to all the

this year. A huge thank you to every-

players, Mark Byrne, Anthony Holly

one for their support during 2015 and

and the support team.

to our great lotto committee.

Hard luck to our minor camogie

Join us on Friday, December 18 in

team who lost out to Ballinteer in their

the clubhouse for the St Brigid’s GAA

championship semi-final.

Christmas party and social night. Fur-

The St Brigid’s GAA AGM took place in

St Brigid’s Under-21 footballers celebrate their championships success

D15 derby delight as Brigid’s claim B final

under-21 bfc final St Brigid’s 1-10 Castleknock 2-5  sport@dublingazette.com

ST BRIGID’S clinched the Under-21 B football championship title at Russell Park last Saturday evening with a two-point win over neighbours Castleknock.

They produced an excellent final flurry from Donal Timoney and James O’Reilly to pull away after Castleknock had fought back from a seven-point deficit.

The adverse weather conditions which affected both sides semi-final encounters were absent for the final and an entertaining game was in prospect.

Championship final adrenaline ensured a hightempo start in front of a large crowd at the Navan Road venue. Castleknock opened the scoring with a long range point from Darragh McCormack followed 10 minutes later by an impressive score from Ben Galvin but the Somerton based club weren’t to lead again in

this contest.

T he frantic early exchanges didn’t translate into many scores.

When the Brigid’s attack came calling, they found the Castleknock defence at home with influential full back Colm Neville frequently thwarting goal chances from the red raiders.

At the 15 minute mark, James O’Reilly recorded Brigid’s first score with a well-taken point quickly followed by a pointed free from Donal Timoney.

This signalled the start of a good spell for Brigid’s as they hunted down scoring opportunities for the reminder of the half.

K nock net minder James Igoe was kept busy dealing with the threat from the Brigid’s forwards and pulled off two good saves in the process.

However, as the half progressed, Castleknock were unable to repel wave after wave of Brigid’s attacks.

The Russell Park men took advantage and were eventually rewarded with a further four scores, including one from Dar-

ragh Henry and two from Mal Tighe from well rehearsed short frees.

Brigid’s led on a score line of 0-6 to 0-2 at the break.

James O’Reilly restarted the second half with his second score, this time with a goal to give Brigid’s a seven point lead.

Now, under real pressure, the Somerton team went all out to close the gap and despite two wides in quick succession corner forward Colin Lynch soon stepped up to claim Castleknock’s first goal and a chance to turn the tide. A further goal from Ben Galvin for the visi-

tors seemed to re-energise Castleknock. Ten minutes into the second period, Galvin scored a fine individual point to tie the teams at 1-6 to 2-3.

Further points from Ben Galvin and John Kindlon kept Castleknock in contention and a chance for championship glory.

However, with 12 minutes to go, these were last scores to be credited to the Caskleknock account.

Brigid’s registered a further four points including two from Donal Timoney and one from goal scorer James O’Reilly to claim the honours on the day.

Castleknock’s John Kindlon on the attack. Picture: Shay Hogan

ther details on the club website.

Russell Park on Sunday evening; thank

The full range of St Brigid’s GAA gear

you to all members who attended. A

is available on our online shop on the

special word of thanks to outgoing

club website. The ideal Christmas gift.

club chairman Billy Quane and to the

St Brigid’s/Spleodar Irish club runs

2015 executive committee for all their

on Thursdays in the club hall from

work and efforts.

7-9pm. Open for all teenagers between

The St Brigid’s nursery is on winter

12 and 18 and the cost is €3 per week. A

break and will return in January 2016.

great opportunity to practise Irish for

There was no lotto jackpot winner

important exams and for enjoyment.

on Thursday. This week’s draw will be

More information available on the club

in Russell Park on December 17 with

website.

castleknock THE annual nursery party took place

3459089) or Louise (085 1534270).

on Saturday in Castleknock Commu-

The wine fare organised by Bernard

nity College and a great time was had

O’Keeffe in aid of Crumlin Children’s

by all. Sincere thanks to all the organ-

Hospital raised €8,345; well done to all

isers and volunteers on the day.

involved. Also, a special mention to our

Hard luck to our U-21 footballers who narrowly lost out in the cham-

U-16 lads who raised €2,130 in aid of the Irish Cancer Society.

pionship final. Many thanks to the

Best wishes to Liam O’Flannagain,

management and players for all their

Judith Ryan and Mick Byrne on their

commitment. Many thanks also to the

new roles on the executive.

great Castleknock crowd in Russell

The 2016 Castleknock club calendars

Park for the final and congrats to St

are only €5 are now available and we

Brigids.

need members to support this innova-

The club nursery, kindly Sponsored

by Tigers after SchoolCare, is taking

tive by making sure every household has one.

a Christmas rest and will be back in

The Castleknock GAA club shop is

the New Year every Saturday morn-

open every Saturday morning from

ing on the all-weather in Somerton

10-11.30am at the nursery in Somer-

beside Castleknock Hotel from 10am-

ton. All club gear including tracksuits,

11.30am. All new players (aged four

jerseys, hurleys, sliotars, shorts,

and upwards) and families welcome

socks and jackets can be fitted and

- for further info, contact Jason(086

purchased.

Naomh Peregrine THE nursery and academy Christ-

with Sam rather than individual pic-

mas party takes place this Saturday,

tures.

December 19. The academy gradua-

The club shop has a new line of St

tion takes place for boys and girls

Peregrine’s sportswear in stock. For

born in 2008 from 1-1.30pm, Santa

a brochure or order form, please

will be there to meet all the boys and

email Dermot at shop.stperegrine@

girls between 1.30-2:30pm.

gmail.com.

From 3pm, the U-8 to U-11s will

Shop opening hours are Monday

receive their medals this will be fol-

from 6-7 pm, Wednesday from 6.30-

lowed by the juvenile most improved

7.30pm, and Saturday 10.30- 12 noon.

player awards for U-12 to U-16s.

There was no winner of the club lotto,

There will be a brief appearance by

the numbers drawn out were 2, 6, 12

Sam Maguire from 3-4pm, depending

and 28; there were 10 winners of €40

on numbers and due to the short time

drawn out. Next week’s Christmas

visit its possible picture opportuni-

jackpot is €5,200; there will also be

ties may be limited to team pictures

20 winners of €40 drawn out.

32 BLANCH Gazette 17 December 2015