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March 21, 2013
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Month XX, 2012 Blanchardstown • Blakestown • Hartstown • Coolmine • Tyrrelstown • Dunboyne • Corduff • Mulhuddart • Ongar
INSIDE: More answers than questions at Porterstown Scout Group pub quiz P6
tough trek: Elaine goes the distance and lands in Poland for Trinity Jailbreak P2
In the frame: Amateur photo competition Soccer:
Corduff duo line out for Republic Under-15 side Page 32
Soccer:
Ireland ladies reach last eight in Cyprus Page 28
ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES.......................6 DUBLIN LIFE....................11 OUT&ABOUT...................17 CLASSIFIEDS.................26 SPORT............................27
top oil recently launched their annual amateur photography competition at the Lighthouse Cinema, themed: ‘Fueling Creativity’. Pictured at the launch was Kiarra Bailey, from Ashtown and Finn Richardson, from Wicklow. The 12 most creative and unique images will feature in the 2014 Top Oil calendar. Further information is available on topphotocompetition.ie.
Hospice wait for care unit funding drags on HSE cite ‘budget constraints’ for delay in opening 24-bed facility
laura webb
The wait for funding to open 24 palliative care beds at the St Francis Hospice in Blanchardstown continues with the HSE blaming “budget
constraints” for the delay. Some €4 million is needed to open and run the facility. Dublin West TD, Patrick Nulty, said the absence of funding is a “dreadful waste of human endeavour and
a failure to provide crucial services”. The HSE said the Community Palliative Care Team is based in the Hospice in Blanchardstown and provides hospice day care and
out-patient services for two days per week. The HSE said funding has been sought but “as of yet this has not been secured due to current budget constraints”. Full Story on Page 5
2 BLANCH Gazette 21 March 2013
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Blanchardstown resident Elaine Foran (18), who made it to Warsaw with her partner in crime Padraic Rowley from Ratoath, both students at Trinity College
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The Trinity students in a very chilly Warsaw
Elaine lands in Poland for Trinity Jailbreak HOW far can you get with no money in 36 hours? Well, that was the challenge that some students from Trinity College took on when they took part in the Trinity Jailbreak recently in aid of St Vincent De Paul. The overall winners of the first ever Trinity Jailbreak, which had nearly 70 students take part, may have made it to Buenos Aires, but the experiences of many of their comrades are stories that will be told for years to come. One such story is from Blanchardstown resident Elaine Foran (18), who made it to Warsaw with her partner in crime Padraic Rowley from Ratoath. Speaking to the Gazette this week, she told us how they managed to get to their des-
laura webb lwebb@gazettegroup.com
tination with no personal funds, relying on the generosity of the public. The duo, known as Team 17, were at the starting line in Trinity at 9am on Saturday, March 9. The whistle blew, the journey had started – they were on their own. “ We h a d b u c ke t s with a little information pack. Padraic had his guitar so we stayed at the front arch [at Trinity] and busked all day. It was the day of the French [rugby] match and we just sang
French words and did a few renditions of the French anthem, we got loads from the French people… people were very generous.” After getting a head start on their funds, it was time to head down to the airport to see if they could catch a flight out somewhere. The team talked about Warsaw, so they explained their mission to a very nice bus driver on the number 16, who allowed them to catch a lift for free. Unfor tunately, when they got to the airport they were €160 short for tickets, so it was back to Dublin City Centre to try and gather some more funds. The next day they got a lift to the airport and arrived at the boarding gate, where there were two lads sitting in ani-
mal onesies, Team 26. “They slept in the airport. They booked a ticket to Warsaw where it was -3 degrees at the time, lashing snow, in onesies, no coat, and no toothbrush. All they had was their onesies and their bucket of change for SVDP,” she laughed. T hey eventually landed in snowy Warsaw and after trying to get a hotel room, they rang the Irish Embassy to see if they could put them in the direction of someone who might help them. They were told to go to a Mexican restaurant run by an Irish man, Niall, the Warsaw Tortilla Factory, who gave them food and helped them get accommodation. “I talked to Niall and he asked, well what do you want from me? I
said well a bed for the night. We felt like Mary and Joseph at that stage. “It was some experience, but never again. It is definitely a once off for me. I don’t think it would be as exciting the second time around b e c a u s e y o u wo u l d know what to expect and what to do. We made a load of mistakes that we wouldn’t make again, but without them it wouldn’t have been as fun. I am so glad I did it,” she added. So far, the Trinity Jailbreak has raised well over €14,000 for the charity. See the list of teams at www.mycharity.ie/ charity_fundraiser_list. p h p ? c h a r i t y I D = 781 or follow the stories at w w w.facebook.com/ TrinityJailbreak2013.
21 March 2013 BLANCH Gazette 3
X-ray unit
bravissimo: mulhuddart youth awards recognise teen efforts
HSE plan to extend Connolly
Artissimos group scoops top slot A LOCAL art group has been declared the overall winner of the first ever Mulhuddart Youth Awards during a packed out ceremony at Mulhuddart Community Centre. T he winners were announced during the awards ceremony recently. According to Mulhuddart Community Youth Project Foróige, who organised the event, the awards aim to “inspire and enable young people aged 10-18 from the area to improve their local community through taking positive action, and to provide them with positive recognition both from their peers and the wider community”. Artissimos Junior Art Group was declared the
overall winners. They used their art skills and talent to raise awareness among their peers in the community and the local primary school of all the groups and clubs, about activities available for young people aged 10-12. The Step It Up sixth class afterschool group were deserving runners up. They organised a fitness and sports session for their fifth and sixth class peers to complement the Food Dudes programme that was running in their school, Ladyswell NS. The Foróige Odd Club voluntary club received a special merit award. This youth club is for local people aged 13-18, and is led by three local volunteers, Stephanie Cleary, Jackie
Doyle and Clare Burke. The club is in the process of establishing a Facebook page to promote positive mental health amongst local young people. Prizes were sponsored by Citywest Corporate Ser vices Group, the National Aquatic Centre, Captain America’s and the Leisureplex, with the trophy sponsored by Mulhuddart Community Centre. Organisers thanked the judges, sponsors and Mulhuddart Community Centre for their support of the event. Also, very special recognition needs to be given to the young people who took part and their families and friends who turned out to support them on the night.
Fun in the sun: Senator takes part in the ITB Humanities Parade senator David Norris is pictured with ITB students Amy Cole-
man from Clonsilla and Dara Tallon from Navan at the Humanities Parade. Over 80 students from the early childhood care and education and social and community development course and ITB staff took part. The parade was followed by a fantastic speech from Senator Norris entitled Diversity. Picture: Andres Poveda
THE HSE has applied for planning permission to extend its x-ray department at Connolly Hospital to facilitate a new MRI examination suite. Fingal County Council received the planning application on March 8. The proposed development consists of a new single storey extension to the existing x-ray department to form part of a new MRI examination suite. Welcoming the news, Cllr David McGuinness (FF) said he strongly supported the application. “A new MRI examination suite would be a very welcome development at Connolly Hospital. In the past, Dublin 15 residents often had to travel Cappagh, Beaumont or The Mater for similar services.”
4 BLANCH Gazette 21 March 2013
Minister: ‘Ireland has A good story to tell’
Joan Burton in Chicago and Milwaukee
Burton uses US visit as showcase laura webb
SOCIAL Protection Minister Joan Burton (Lab) visited Milwaukee and Chicago to promote Irish trade and investment during her St Patrick’s Day trip. A total of 19 government ministers promoted the country abroad this St Patrick’s Day. As part of her visit she updated the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago on Ireland’s economic progress, met with a leading support group for women in business and heard from organisations working for immigration reform and attended the St Patrick’s Day events. Before she headed off, Minister Burton said Ireland had a “good story to tell”. “We expect to see our third straight year of economic growth this year, we have stabilised our banks and foreign direct
investment is increasing rapidly,” she said. “There is a reason for that - we have a young, adaptable, highly-educated workforce in the only English-speaking member of the eurozone, with ready access to a market of 500 million consumers... Some of that highlyeducated and experienced workforce is currently unemployed, a consequence of the economic crisis. Ireland’s unemployment rate is falling as the economy recovers, but it’s not falling fast enough, and my priority as Social Protection Minister is to address that. “I will use this visit to stress to US investors the immense pool of talent available in Ireland, the quality of our graduates and the €1 billion investment we are making in retraining and upskilling people seeking work so that they are job-ready.”
Going swimmingly: Electric Ireland sponsor commemorative hats for NAC’s anniversary to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the National Aquatic Centre (NAC) in Dublin, Electric Ireland has signed up to sponsor special commemorative swimming hats for all 2,404 participants in Ireland’s biggest Learn to Swim, Dive and Synchronised Swimming Academy.
Pictured are Aaron, Rose and Theo Browne, from Donabate who took to the water to give the new hats a test run. The academy is the biggest in the history of the Irish state and is growing with each term.
Man avoids jail after knife attack, beating A FATHER has avoided jail after beating up his daughter and assaulting her boyfriend with a knife because he was angry about their relationship. Doger Rose (45) forced his way into the teenage boy’s house and threatened to kill his whole family while his daughter stood crying outside. As he left, a passer-by saw him assaulting the 16-year-old girl and Rose replied: “It’s ok, it’s my daughter.” Judge Mary Ellen Ring said Rose’s anger at his daughter dating a 19-yearold boy was understand-
able, but it did not excuse his actions. She imposed a two-year jail term, but suspended it for two years on condition he keeps the peace and pays €2,000 to the youth. Rose of Maple Drive, Castleknock pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to assault causing harm to his daughter and her boyfriend and to brandishing a knife at Gazelle Village, Tyrrelstown on September 28, 2011. Garda Alan Ready told prosecuting counsel Rosin Lacey BL that Rose’s daughter was in a
relationship with the boy and her father thought she was missing school because of it. He arrived at the boy’s house with a 14-inch kitchen knife and demanded to see the boy as his daughter stood outside crying. When the boy came down Rose told him to explain himself then ran at him with the knife. The victim raised his arm to protect himself and suffered a cut to his forearm which later needed stitches. The boy ran upstairs while Rose followed and said he was going to kill him.
The boy’s father intervened but Rose held the knife to the man’s chest and threatened to kill the whole family. The mother then stepped in, grabbed Rose and brought him downstairs. Rose shouted that he had warned the boy many times to stay away from his daughter. He went to leave and grabbed his daughter. A passer-by saw him punching her in the head and upper body and told him to stop, to which Rose replied: “It’s ok, it’s my daughter.” Gardai arrived and arrested Rose. In inter-
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view he said he got a call from his daughter’s school to say she had been absent and he blamed her boyfriend. He denied bringing a knife to the house or inflicting the cut to his victim’s arm. Defence counsel Austin O’Briain BL said the now 18-year-old daughter is still living with her parents and is preparing to sit her Leaving Certificate examinations. Mr O’Briain said she and the other victim’s family tried to have the charges against Rose dropped before he appeared in court.
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21 March 2013 BLANCH Gazette 5
residents Meetings to discuss concerts
Phoenix Park gigs get go-ahead Private consultation meetings will take place with residents in Castleknock regarding three upcoming concerts in the Phoenix Park. The OPW has granted permission to Festival Republic to stage three concerts, subject to licence from Dublin City Council. A spokesperson for the OPW said the site at the Phoenix Park visitor centre is suitable for a limited number of concerts in 2013,
assuming the following criteria are met: that average rainfall occurs in the months and days leading up to the events; a comprehensive drainage scheme is implemented; the site is verti-drained; the site compaction map is utilised as part of the site layout; a comprehensive tracking layout is agreed with Dublin City Council and the emergency services; a site traffic management plan and staff parking plan is agreed in advance; the
event organiser engage a suitably qualified grounds manager to coordinate/ manage the set-up and take-down to ensure minimal impact to the grounds; a protocol be agreed with event organisers, DCC, gardai and the OPW for cancellation of the concerts due to unsafe ground conditions and that pitch cover to be considered if there is inclement weather for the “pits” area and entrance/exit routes.
St Francis Hospice, Blanchardstown: state-of-the-art palliative facility has been complete since 2011
health: hospice wait for €4m continues
No HSE funding for palliative care beds Laura Webb
THERE is still no funding available to open the palliative care beds in the St Francis Hospice in Blanchardstown, despite the state-of-the-art facility being complete since 2011 the HSE has confirmed. Some €4 million is needed to open and run the much-needed facility in Dublin West. D u b l i n We s t T D Patrick Nulty (Lab) says it’s a “dreadful waste of human endeavour and a failure to provide crucial services” that no funding is included in the HSE’s plan for 2013 to open these beds.
“It would cost in the region of €4 million to get these beds open but the HSE have confirmed no funding,” he said. In a statement to the Gazette, a spokesperson for the HSE said the Community Palliative Care Team is based in the hospice in Blanchardstown and provides hospice day care and outpatient services for two days per week. “Funding for the provision of an in-patient 24 beds for specialist palliative care within the overall catchment area of St Francis Hospice, Dublin has been sought but as of yet this has not been secured due to current
budget constraints. “St Francis Hospice and the Health Service Executive will continue to work in partnership to achieve the overall objective of provision of comprehensive palliative care services throughout north Dublin city and county,” the spokesperson added. Deputy Nulty went on to say: “We have a top class facility funded through the dedication of so many community leaders and volunteers in Dublin 15 yet it is not being allowed to reach its potential. “Palliative care is a sensitive and deeply personal issue for families
and they have a right to expect a dignified and well-resourced service,” he continued. The local politician went on to criticise government ministers who are standing over the refusal to provide much needed funding to open the hospice beds, and said that an “appalling situation is taking place all at a time when the HSE are being allowed to offer a whopping €185,000 a year salary to entice a new chief executive.” The St Francis Hospice provides a specialist palliative care service and is voluntary organisation, located in Raheny and Blanchardstown.
6 BLANCH Gazette 21 March 2013
gazetteGALLERIES
Some of the partners of the W@ve2.0 project
Catching up: internet basics
T
HE W@ve2.0 project was recently launched at eBay in Blanchardstown, and aims to enhance the lives of senior citizens through the effective use of Web 2.0 technologies. It focuses on an individual’s social and personal needs to facilitate their full inclusion in the digital age. The course includes four modules , which cover online security, shopping and selling online, socialising and social networks and internet for everyday use. W@ve2.0 is an EU funded project promoted by FIT Ltd, along with partners from Italy, Hungary, Northern Ireland and Co Meath.
Many people attended the event
Gareth Lawless
Audrey Grahan, Pamela Fagan and Tara O’Farrell
Thomas and Mary Deininger with Brian and Alice
The event organisers Eanna Lynskey, Clare Egan,
Manscier
scout den: MAKING FACILITY WHEELCHAIR FRIENDLY
Porterstown get quizzical T
HE families and friends of the 70th Porterstown Scout Group came together recently for a pub quiz in the Clonsilla Inn. The night was held to raise funds to make the scout den wheelchair accessible. More than 30 teams took part,coming
together to smash their fundraising target. The quiz was organised by Eanna Lynskey, Clare Egan, Orla Manscier, Brian Harvey and Cathal Heaney. There were many fantastic prizes up for grabs on the night, and a good time was had by all.
Each team put their thinking caps on and worked together to get the right answers
Brian Harvey, Clare Egan and Cathal Heaney
21 March 2013 BLANCH Gazette 7
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Many fantastic prizes were up for grabs Elaine Stynes, Paul Murphy, Paddy Walsh and Lorainne McGill
Orla Manscier, Brian Harvey and Cathal Heaney. Pictures: James Devon
A large crowd took part in the quiz
on the night
Robert Kelly with Louise and Catherine O’Beirne
8 BLANCH Gazette 21 March 2013
FastNews
business First prize to Castleknock CC
education: women in technology
Pink or purple? Which are you?
Glenda gearing up to support marathon effort Castleknock TV presenter and long time ambassador for the Marie Keating Foundation, Glenda Gilson, is inviting ladies from all over Ireland to join Team Marie Keating for this year’s Women’s Mini Marathon. Organic dairy Glenisk has pledged a generous donation of €25,000 to help the charity to reach its sizeable fundraising target of €50,000 for the event. Speaking at the launch of the mini marathon, Glenda said: “I take great pride in being the ambassador for the foundation’s mini marathon campaign every year and the atmosphere and sense of sisterhood you get on the day simply can’t be beaten!” Linda Keating, director of fundraising, said: “Very often, the ladies who join Team Marie Keating have a personal reason for doing so. Either they have had breast cancer themselves or they have a friend or loved one who has battled the disease. We would love for our ladies to tell us, through specially designed t-shirt stickers we will give them, who they are running for. It is also a lovely way to honour someone who has perhaps sadly lost their battle with breast cancer.” Ladies can log onto www.mariekeating.ie to sign up to Team Marie Keating today.
Enjoying festive fun Children and teachers from St Luke’s NS in Tyrellstown dressed in a variety of green, white and orange for St Patrick’s Day. The children sang Hail Glorious Saint Patrick and sixth class set the pace beating big bass drums. After lunch there was a big ceili in the PE hall.
Parents and family members joined in and clapped along while the children danced the traditional Fallai Luimnigh. Ms McDonagh’s fourth class played traditional tunes on their tin whistles to the rapt attention of everyone present. It was an energetic day with a great atmosphere of fun, enjoyed by all.
Kelsey Allen and Mihai Mar from Hartstown Community College with their enterprise Xpress Yourself. Picture: Kim Haughton
Enterprising pupils win a trip to Spain
laura webb
STUDENTS from Castleknock Community College claimed first place in the senior category of this year’s Fingal Student Enterprise Awards with their project Music by Numbers. As part of the prize, they won an educational trip to Barcelona. Runners up in this category were Donabate/Portrane Community College with their project, Colourful Learning. The 12th annual awards took place at the Crowne Plaza in Blanchardstown on March 11. A total of 55 student enterprises from 18 sec-
ondary schools and six primary schools across Fingal took part in the annual county final, which was organised by Fingal County Enterprise Board. The participants have been busy working on their own business since last September. The Enterprising School Spirit Award for primary schools was presented by Joe Harford, chairperson of the Fingal County Enterprise Board, and went to Squishyz at Tyrellstown Educate Together. The winners of the secondary school’s junior category was by Comfort Crutch from Skerries Community Col-
lege, while Bookmarkers from Colaiste Choilm in Swords were runners-up. The intermediate category was won by Lyetech from Colaiste Choilm in Swords, and Crash Pack from Colaiste Choilm in Swords claimed the runner-up prize. The Enterprising School Spirit Award for secondary schools, which was presented by the CEO of the County Dublin VEC Dr Marie Griffin, was awarded to St Joseph’s from Rush. Dr Griffin also presented the County Dublin VEC Award for secondary schools to Balbriggan Community College. Oisin Geoghegan, CEO of Fingal County Enter-
prise Board said: “The aim of the programme is to foster an entrepreneurial culture in our classrooms and the programme has grown every year, to become the largest and most successful student enterprise programme in the country.” Participating Dublin 15 secondary schools included: Hartstown Community College Coolmine Community School, Castleknock College, Luttrellstown Community College, Mount Sackville and Coláiste Pobail Setanta. While Huntstown National School was also one of six participating primary schools.
The Institute of Technology Blanchardstown (ITB) are running for the second year their innovative annual project entitled, Are You Pink or Purple - Young Women in Technology. This is a project for female students in second-level schools in Dublin to create awareness of technology. Following on from the great success in 2011 and 2012, there will be 18 lucky female students participating this year, (from Coolmine Community School, Riversdale Community School and St Dominic’s College, Cabra) . The project involves digital media and computing clinics in ITB and industry visits to PayPal and eBay. Initially funded by the Dormant Accounts F u n d , t h e A r e Yo u Pink or Purple – Young Women in Technology project runs over three weeks with specific clinics to give the students an overview of the various programmes on offer should they wish to further their education by going to college. Go to www.itb.ie for more information.
Young people to benefit from cafe fund The young members of the Dublin 15 community are set to benefit from a recent announcement of funding worth €1 million. The funding was last week allocated in a nationwide effort to support the development of new youth cafes. T he announcement was made by Minister for Children Frances Fitzgerald (FG)
who said: “The availability of these funds reinforces the government’s commitment to the extension of quality youth cafes throughout the country, in particular noting the repeated emphasis that young people have placed on the need for safe, alcohol-free recreational facilities.” The Youth Cafe Funding Scheme aims to promote the
structured development of new youth cafes around the country by giving support to local organisations and groups which are providing youth services. Since taking office Minister Fitzgerald has already provided €700,000 in 2011 and 2012 for youth cafe developments and recognises the achievements already made by groups
in establishing youth cafes across the country. “I am greatly encouraged by the quality of the projects that have already been grant aided under the previous youth cafe funding scheme.” The call for youth cafe funding will close for online applications on April 12, 2013. For more information see www. dcya.gov.ie.
21 March 2013 BLANCH Gazette 9
Boost Investment is magic for local theatre
Arts Council give Draiocht €120k funding Laura Webb lwebb@gazettegroup.com
THE Draiocht Arts Centre has received over €120,000 investment through the Arts Council this week. Exciting theatre, visual art, music and much more is on the menu for people in Blanchardstown this year, the Arts Council has said. The Arts Council, the government agency for funding and developing the arts, said it would invest €120,000 in the
Draiocht Arts Centre which has a proven track record for delivering great arts experiences for people all over the area and beyond. The funding comes through the Arts Council’s three main annual grants programmes. In addition, people in Blanchardstown will enjoy the arts through Arts Council funding for touring, projects and bursaries for talented artists throughout the year. The Draiocht Arts Centre is one of the most
renowned venues in Ireland, and this year it will host a selection of dance, theatre, visual arts, comedy and much more. Chairman of the Arts Council Pat Moylan said: “We are delighted to be able to continue supporting and developing the arts in Blanchardstown. For over 60 years the Arts Council has been at the forefront of developing and promoting the arts and even with reduced funding, the Arts Council continues to build a central place for the arts in
Draiocht Arts Centre received a major investment from the Arts Council
Irish life. “Despite that funding to the arts has been cut by around 30 per cent since 2008, we recognise that work of the Arts Council produces an important social dividend that positively impacts on the
quality of life of citizens across the country. Not only this, but the arts play a vital role in our economy, especially in job creation and tourism. Therefore, we see it as vital to areas such as Blanchardstown and other areas
across the country that support for the arts is maintained. “As the year progresses, we will be announcing further funding to individual artists and to groups undertaking projects, festivals and other events.”
housing
Grants cut 25% Fingal County Council has had its grants for housing adaptation cut by almost 25% this year. Last year, Fingal was allocated €2,072,365 for housing adaptations but this year sees it drop by over €400,000 to €1,588,467. This housing grant is for older people or citizens with disabilities to have their home adapted so they can access bathroom facilities or get up the stairs. This drop has been criticised by Dublin West TD Patrick Nulty (Lab) who said it’s “another disaster for ordinary families”.
10 BLANCH Gazette 21 March 2013
gazetteGALLERY
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Peter created unique photo opportunities, such as snapping
Then Minister Mary Hanafin - with Oscar winner
Even farmyard animals were put at ease by
former Justice Minister Brian Lenihan in a holding cell
Sean Penn in the background
Peter Doyle
Remembering the work of Peter Doyle
T
HE sudden passing of our staff photographer Peter Doyle shocked and saddened every employee here in The Gazette. Peter was a hugely popular member of our team, both in the office and out. His ease with people, and animals, meant that he could get public figures to drop their guard, allowing Gazette readers a unique insight. Peter had a unique eye as a photographer, which was born of his real interest in, and affection for, people. Where others had their cameras focused straight ahead, Peter was always looking around him for a different take on events. With that in mind, we decided to honour Peter by sharing our favourite pictures, taken from a selection of thousands. That eye, his sense of humour and his friendship will be sorely missed.
Former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern with son-in-law Nicky Byrne leaving the US ambassador’s residence on July 4 – as always, nobody ever A soldier watches the coffin of Brian Lenihan
refused Peter
21 March 2013 Gazette 11
diet coke milestone P14
asdfsdaf irish cancer societyP27 P15
dublinlife
Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week, as well as the latest from our schools
Emerald isle: dublin airport shines for visitors
Ireland’s green welcome for St Patrick’s weekend AN UNUSUAL sight greeted a quarter of a million people last weekend as Dublin Airport went green. Passengers coming to Dublin Airport by ground and air saw Terminals 1, 2, the Old Terminal building and many other prominent buildings around the airport campus lit up in green for the St Patrick’s Day weekend. The buildings were
bathed in green light every evening for six days to celebrate St Patrick’s Day and The Gathering 2013. “We are thrilled to be participating in the greening of Dublin Airport,” said DAA spokesperson Siobhán Moore. “[It] created a real wow factor at the airport and the greening of Terminal 2 was visible from the M1 and the M50.” Meanwhile, more than
225,000 passengers travelled through Dublin Airport over the course of the bank holiday weekend from Friday, March 15 to Monday, March 18, which is a 6% increase on last year. Monday, March 18 was the busiest day of the weekend, with more than 82,000 passengers passing through the airport. “Dublin Airport [provided] a selection of musical entertainment
for passengers over the holiday including choirs, traditional Irish groups and local schools so that we could extend a true cead mile failte to all visitors over the bank holiday weekend,” added Siobhan. Both terminals were also decked with nearly 11,000 balloons and reams of bunting, which were designed to create a festive atmosphere around both terminals.
Dublin Airport was lit up for the St Patrick’s Day weekend
Gazette
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Gain Pet Food and Barretstown are calling on all dog owners to dress up their pooches and help break the world record for the most dogs in fancy dress on April 28. Pictured are Aislinn Flanagan (8) with Ivannii, the pug. Picture Andres Poveda/Jason Clarke Photography
Doll up your dog GAIN Pet Food in association with Barretstown is calling on dog owners to help break the world record for the most dogs in fancy dress this April. T he world record attempt will take place on April 28 at T he National Show Centre (near Dublin Airport), with celebrity judge Katie Taylor on hand to find the “mutt with the greatest strut”. Promising to be a fantastic day out for all the family, as well as your four-legged furry friend, all money raised will be going to Barretstown, a charity which aims to rebuild the lives of children affected by serious illness and their families. There will be some fantastic prizes for the best dogs in costume, free veterinary and nutritional advice, agility and obedience classes, free entertainment and free goodie bags for you and
your canine companion. For more information or to register for the event, visit www. gainfeeds.com or email gainworldrecord@glanbia.ie.
FRANCO-IRISH LITERARY TREAT THIS APRIL A Franco-Irish Literary Festival gets under way this April at two venues on Kildare Street: Alliance Francaise and The National Library of Ireland. The free festival is organised by the Alliance Francaise Dublin and the Cultural and Scientific Service of the French Embassy with the intention of inviting Irish and French writers to come together. This year, in the context of the Irish Presidency of the European Union, the festival will also have several authors from European countries taking part.
French writers partaking include Bernard du Boucheron and Patrick Deville and among the Irish writers will be Dermot Bolger and Anne Haverty. The Franco-Irish Literary Festival runs from April 19 until 21 at both venues and admission is free. Go to francoirishliteraryfestival.com to find out more.
GOING FOR GOLD WITH THE LINDT BUNNY FOLLOWING on from the success of last year’s Easter auction, the Lindt Gold Bunny Auction is returning and is set to get fans fighting for the limited edition gold-plated Lindt bunnies signed by well-known Irish and international celebrities on the Lindt Chocolate Ireland Facebook page. All proceeds from the Lindt Gold Bunny Auction will be donated
directly to Temple Street Children’s Hospital and all final bid winners not only get to take home their signed Lindt Gold Bunny, but also a Lindt Gold Bunny hamper worth over €100. Celebrities who have hopped on board to sign the bunnies include The Script, Chris O’Dowd, Robbie Williams, Wayne Rooney, Daniel Radcliffe, Emeli Sande, Katie Taylor and Mumford & Sons, to name just a few. The auction is currently open for bids and will close on Monday, March 25 at 3pm. To bid, log onto www.facebook. com/lindtchocolateireland or visit www.lindtgoldbunny.ie.
CALLING ALL MODEL TOY COLLECTORS CALLING all toy model collectors, check out the latest collections at the annual toy/model col-
lector’s fair in Bray. This event will showcase a host of toys from yesterday and will be a toy collector’s dream day out. Buy, sell, swap, source, restore or just chat about hundreds of toy models. There is also a free valuation advice service being offered. As the saying goes, one man’s trash is another’s treasure, and that is definitely something collectors will be thinking of this year. The event is being hosted by the Collectors’Association, which was established in 1968. Admission is €1 with proceeds going to the Alzheimer Society. This event takes place on Sunday, March 24 from 10am until 3pm at the Bray Wheelers Clubhouse, Schools Road. For directions see www.braywheelers.com. For more information, call Des Cooney on 4576751 or Sean Ryan on 2851308.
21 March 2013 Gazette 13
One City One Book: exploring dublin’s history
Horticulture taster day
Strumpet City: epic reminder of 1913 Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
Strumpet City by James Plunkett is this year’s choice for One City One Book. The initiative was set up in 2006 to encourage people in Dublin to read a chosen book connected with the city throughout the month of April. One City One Book is run by Dublin City Public Libraries and Dublin UNESCO City of Literature which is a dedicated office set up in 2010 to promote Dublin as a literary destination
and to promote reading in the capital. The 2013 choice, the historical novel Strumpet City, was written in 1969 by James Plunkett. It is set in Dublin at the time of the 1913 Lock Out, so its selection in the year of the Lock Out’s centenary is a timely reminder of our past. Naoise O Muiri, the Lord Mayor of Dublin (FG) said: “As well as being arguably the greatest Irish historical novel, it provides a literary portal through which Dubliners can explore the history
of their city. It is a novel which will undoubtedly raise many discussions and I encourage you to participate in those discussions throughout the extensive One City One Book programme this April.” Strumpet City traces the lives of a dozen characters as they are swept up in the tumultuous events surrounding an industrial dispute as workers fought for their right to unionise between 1907 and 1914. Plunkett was born in 1920 in Dublin’s inner
city and his father was a member of Jim Larkin’s Irish Transport and General Workers’ Union (ITGWU) which had a huge impact on the young writer. The novel was adapted into a very successful television drama series by RTE in 1980 and had such acting luminaries as Peter O’Toole playing the role of union leader Jim Larkin, Cyril Cusack, David Kelly and Donal McCann. RTE’s dramatisation of the book was, at the time, the biggest money-spinner the station had ever pro-
Gazette
FEATURE
Author James Plunkett has depicted a pivotal event in Irish social history
duced, and was sold to more than 30 countries. One City One Book’s publishing partner is Gill and Macmillan, which have a new edition of Strumpet City out now to
celebrate the centenary of the Lock Out. It contains an introduction by Fintan O’Toole outlining the book’s current relevance today and costs €9.99.
THE Teagasc College of Amenity Horticulture at the National Botanic Gardens in Glasnevin, will hold an open afternoon on Thursday, March 21, from 2pm to 4pm for potential students and parents. The college provides the widest range of horticultural training in the country, offering courses from levels four to eight on the National Framework of Qualifications. With student facilities currently being expanded and upgraded for the 2013 intake of students, the Teagasc College boasts entire grounds and vast plant collections alongside its classrooms. For more information, log on to www.teagasc. ie/botanicgardens.
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14 Gazette 21 March 2013
dublinlife
Offset Festival set to return to Dublin Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
The Offset Festival is taking place this April in Dublin, and is being hailed as three days of the most creative design talent in the world gathered in one place. The best of the world’s illustrations, sculpture, murals, magazines, picture books and music videos will be involved this year. A total of 24 speakers at the cutting edge of design will be involved with the Offset Festival, such as Sarah Illinberger, Niamh Sharkey and Jonathan McHugh, who started out as a scenic artist creating giant
murals on construction sites across Europe. Another award winner lined up for Offset is Canadian Calef Brown, an author/illustrator who has written many children’s books. His illustrations have popped up in Time, Newsweek, Rolling Stone and The New Yorker. Since its inception in Dublin in 2009, Offset has become one of the world’s most important creative events. The festival runs at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre from April 5 to 7. Tickets, which are available from Ticketmaster, cost €70 for a day and €195 for the whole festival.
anniversary: model ‘really proud’ to be chosen
Refreshing change for Diet Coke’s milestone Natalie Burke
THERE aren’t too many women in the country who can forget “that” Diet Coke ad which graced our screens in the 1990s. But for anyone who missed it, or is feeling a little nostalgic, the good news is that a brand new ad will be taking over our 11.30am breaks, complete with a brand new hunk, Diet Coke’s words – not ours! To celebrate the 30th anniversary of the brand in Europe, Diet Coke has chosen the toned torso of male model Andrew Cooper to help recreate a modern version of the memorable TV ad. Cooper is appearing on the advertisement as a gardener, joining the ranks of other roles the infamous Diet Coke hunk has taken on over the years, which included a construction worker, a window cleaner and a delivery man. Chatting to the Gazette during a recent promotional visit to Dublin, model Cooper says he is “really proud” to have been chosen as the brand’s latest hunk. “It’s amazing to be fronting the campaign. They hadn’t casted in so long and it was a really big thing for them I think to try and recreate what they had back with Lucky Vanous, the builder and the girls in the office. So yeah, I’m really proud and obviously really happy to be part of the 30 years of Diet Coke,” he said. Following in the footsteps of the hunks that have gone before him, Cooper says he doesn’t feel under pressure to keep up the good name.
Model Andrew Cooper is Diet Coke’s brand new “hunk”
“I never really do to be honest. All you can do is do your best and be good at your job.” The 32-year-old, who hails from Manchester, may be the centre of attention when it comes to his day job, but at home he lives a normal life with a wife, two kids and a pet shop. “Between me and my wife, we have a shop in Notting Hill [called The Mutz Nutz] where we do grooming and all that. I have my fingers in many pies!” Having modelled since the age of 16, Cooper has starred in many large campaigns, including a L’Oreal commercial with Claudia Schiffer. However with all the female
attention on this latest campaign, Cooper says his wife is very supportive. “I’ve been working in this business for a long time and she is totally understanding and very supporting. We’ve been together so long and she really loves the ad. My kids like it too and it gets quite a lot of replays in the house! Positive
“I’ve had a really positive reaction from the whole campaign. It took off like a rocket and I wasn’t really expecting that. Even the person who works in the local coffee shop was giving me a bit of stick but it has all been good!” Making appearances
across Dublin last week, Cooper says it’s his third time to visit. “I love it; it’s one of my favourite cities. It’s definitely – when I say favourite – got a lot to do with eating and drinking,” he said. Despite his last comment, Cooper says eating healthy is key to staying in shape. “I’m generally a pretty healthy person in terms of what I eat – I’m not a chocolate lover so I don’t really watch what I eat, but I’m really active.” Diet Coke is celebrating its big milestone by giving away a Marc Jacobs leather pouch every 30 minutes. For more information, log onto www. cokezone.ie.
21 March 2013 Gazette 15
Gazette
FEATURES
Irish Cancer Society marks 50 years’ service laura webb
The chief executive of the Irish Cancer Society (ICS) continues to be humbled by the generosity of the Irish public who have supported the charity over the last 50 years. This year marks a great milestone for the ICS, which offers a range of services to people affected by cancer. On March 22, volunteers will be out in force selling daffodils for Daffodil Day. Speaking to the Gazette, ICS chief executive John McCormack thanked supporters of the charity. “We have managed to grow from strength to strength in
50 years thanks to the continued support of the Irish people. “I am humbled by the support received during these tough times. We know people have been affected by the recession and they are hurting financially… but yet they continue to stand by the ISC.” Asked why he think’s that is, he said it’s because people understand it is a charity that is making a difference to people affected by cancer. “The funds go towards free patient care services, which are delivered to people, in many cases, in their own homes. For example, over 2,000 families were helped last year
with the ICS night nursing service and they provided over 7,000 nights of care to families. “We are also the largest voluntary funders of cancer research in Ireland. The enemy of cancer is good cancer research, finding out more about the cancer cell, so that we can discover better therapies to deal with cancer.” The patient literature in hospitals is also provided by the cancer society and it explains the often confusing terminology doctors use. “Often when people hear the words, you have cancer, what is said to them for the next three quarters of an hour is forgotten, they are numb at the
thought of a life changing diagnosis of cancer and it is afterwards, when they go home that they look at the lCS literature, or go on our website or phone the national cancer helpline 1800 200 700,” John explained. “They can speak to one of our helpline nurses, who are all oncology trained. They can answer the questions people have… and they hold people’s hand through
this journey.” Daffodil Day, now in its 26th year, takes place on March 22 and accounts for 15% of their fundraising. “The daffodil is a symbol of hope. Hope is something people going through cancer look for, it’s a sign that says I am going to get through this,” he added. Support ICS this March 22, see www.cancer.ie for further information.
Siofra O’Sullivan (5) from Bayside with Sebastian Reilly (3) from Donnybrook and Kyra Downey (3) from Bayside pictured helping mark the beginning of the Irish Cancer Society’s 50th year
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16 Gazette 21 March 2013
dublinlife
Pamela Cullen, Paul Hennessy, Orlagh Kilbride and Bindu Nai of Abbott
Abbott ranked as one of Ireland’s Best Workplaces 2013 Abbott, the global health care company, has been recognised as one of Ireland’s Best Workplaces for the progressive work practices and innovative employee programmes in place at Abbott facilities around the country. Two Abbott sites in West Dublin were part of the ranking achieved at the Best Workplaces Awards 2013, including Abbott Medical Optics in Liffey Valley and the company’s commercial operation, Abbott Laboratories Ireland Ltd, Citywest, which was presented with a Laureate in recognition of 10 years’ consistent ranking in Ireland’s annual Best Workplaces list. The awards were hosted by the Great Place to Work Institute at a gala dinner in the Burlington Hotel, Dublin last week. Abbott is one of the largest healthcare companies in Ireland, with a diverse range of operations spanning manufacturing, commercial and shared services around the country, however, it applies a universal approach to maintaining excellence in the recruitment and retention of employees. Six Abbott facilities, spanning five business divisions, collaborated on this year’s Best Workplaces entry including; Abbott Medical Optics, Liffey Valley Dublin and Westport; Abbott Established Products Division, Santry, Dublin; Abbott Laboratories Ireland Ltd, CityWest Dublin; Abbott Diagnostics, Longford and Abbott Ireland Pharmaceutical Operations
Sligo, now trading as AbbVie. Margaret Morrissey, country HR director, Abbott, accepted the award on the company’s behalf. “We are delighted to receive this recognition from the Great Place to Work Institute. We are an innovation-led company that maintains our competitive advantage by exploring and maximising opportunities in all aspects of our business. We are only able to do this through our talented and engaged employees, who are our greatest asset. “We are committed to providing a high-trust environment, and fostering open, transparent and direct relationships with all our employees. This means that as a company we can continue to innovate and best serve patients with products that improve lives. Being named one of Ireland’s Best Workplaces is a welcome acknowledgment of our commitment to progressive work practices and providing learning and development opportunities for each employee.” Examples of some of the progressive initiatives in place at Abbott include the Live Life Well initiative, which inspires, engages and empowers employees to embrace a holistic approach to their physical and mental wellbeing. Also Ideas into Action is an initiative which enables employees to identify opportunities for improvement across a number of categories including culture, cost savings, environment, knowledge and process improvements.
business
Ten steps to financial freedom A fool and his money, as the saying goes, are soon parted (although I prefer James Van Den Bosch’s quip that “a fool and his money are some party”), but fools aren’t the only ones afflicted this way. Many highly intelligent people find themselves with financial problems, too. This is because your IQ has absolutely nothing to do with how well you manage your money. What is considerably more relevant is your attitude to the stuff and your timing. If you want to survive (and prosper) during the current economic recession you need to focus on your personal finances. If you shudder at the thought, remember as I have said before that the only boring thing about money is not having enough of it. One other point before we consider how to transform your finances in 10 easy steps. If you run a business, what holds for your personal finances, holds for your corporate finances, too. Step one. Get a plan, Stan (apologies to Paul Simon ) If you want to transform your finances the first thing you need is a sound financial plan. Set short, medium and long-term goals. These might be such things as “pay off all my debts” or “sort out my retirement.” You can’t go forward until you know what you want to achieve. Step two. Stop digging. You can’t get out of a hole if you keep digging. If you have a financial problem – such as debt – then stop doing anything that might be making it worse. Step three. Be patient.
It is difficult to get rich quick, but very easy to do if you take it slowly. By the same token, you won’t solve any financial problem by being in a hurry. Step four. Work out a budget. Budgeting has nothing to do with self-denial - it is simply about making a plan for how you will spend your money over a specific period. Start by working out your current position. Calculate your income and expenditure over a typical year (breaking it down month by month). Then draw up a list of your assets and liabilities. Step five. Waste will seriously damage your wealth. For years, my children would roll their eyes when I went round the house switching off lights or complained when they were talking on the telephone for too long. Eventually, they were persuaded that what I was doing was worthwhile when I offered them a percentage of any utility bill savings we could make as a family. Now, more than ever, you need to cut out all waste. More next week! Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor
enterprise ireland: Government at showcase
California trip boost for start-up businesses Enterprise Ireland took part in a High Potential Start-up Showcase for Irish business this month in Silicon Valley in California opened by Minister for Small Business John Perry last week. Minister Perry announced that 1,600 jobs would be created in start-up businesses in Ireland this year. The start-ups in question number 97 and have received financial support throughout 2012 from Enterprise Ireland. The minister said that €300 million in sales would be generated by these companies in Ireland within the next three years. The companies featured come from a wide range of sectors including
key technological areas that have been targeted by the government for growth in the last year. These include: financial services, ICT, games, pharmaceuticals and medical devices. The showcase also included 60 early stage entrepreneurs supported by the Enterprise Ireland Competitive Start Fund and representatives from the 2012 New Frontiers Entrepreneur Development Programme. Greg Treston, Enterprise Ireland Head of High Potential Start-ups and Scaling, said: “Enterprise Ireland has continued to introduce new initiatives to provide the right support at the right time, at all stages along
Sam Nayagam, 10n2 Technologies, David Byrne, Enterprise Ireland, and Sean Corbett, Adaptive HVM who were at the showcase
the start-up journey.” At the Enterprise Ireland Potential Start-ups Showcase, Minister Perry said: “The Government’s Action Plan for Jobs places innovative entrepreneurs and businesses right at the heart of the drive to accelerate jobs growth and economic prosperity. Ambitious, export-focused projects like those featured today and supported by Enterprise Ire-
land, are central to this, and will play a critical part in achieving the levels of growth and employment that we need. “During the last two years, this government has delivered a series of measures aimed at putting the best supports in place and creating the right business environment so that indigenous companies can grow their businesses.”
21 March 2013 Gazette 17
motoring P22
asdfsdaf P27 TRAVEl P24
OUT&ABOUT Never be out of the loop on what’s happening in Dublin! Let Out&About be your guide to all that is stylish, cultural and essential across the city and beyond this week
Gazette
style P19
Pets can you give fabulous fender a new home?
A trip to the museum gives an insight into the great history of Dublin
Little Museum of Dublin: free educational classes prove popular
A novel history lesson
Bairbre Ni Bhraonain
The Little Museum of Dublin is running a new children’s education programme at their premises on Stephen’s Green to introduce children to the history and culture of Dublin. A series of free classes for school children called I Love Dublin has been up and running for about a month now and is proving very popular among secondary and primary schools in the city. The Gazette spoke to the museum’s director, Trevor White, about the new initiative. “The I Love Dublin classes are based on the civics and history of Dublin and they were established to
promote a greater awareness of Dublin’s great history and culture among the young with a view to encouraging a strong sense of civic pride in them. A law firm called Matheson has agreed to fund the classes for the next three years, which is great.” The classes are overseen by museum staff along with the school’s own teachers. Students are welcomed to the museum by either the director or curator who give a 10-minute talk before conducting a short tour of the museum for 15 to 30 minutes during which the class considers the question of why Dublin is so loved. Following this there is a 15-minute treasure hunt, in which students explore the museum and complete worksheets.
Next there is a class discussion on why Dublin is loved and the best answer by a student is filmed and put on the museum’s website. The class then interviews an older Dubliner about what life in the city was like many years ago when they were the same age as the students. Trevor went on to talk about the novel approach being taken with the I Love Dublin classes, to get the children more excited about Dublin’s heritage. “We have an extensive range of classes on offer for primary and post primary school students. “Usually a school will come along with several different classes, all visiting at the same time, so different methods work with the different age
groups. “Because the collection is drawn from the people of Dublin, who have all donated the artefacts on display, the items themselves tell the story of Dublin in the 20th century. It offers an unusual angle by which the children can approach the city’s history. There is a lot of holding of the objects and a lot of enjoyable activities in the classes. We didn’t want the classes to be dry and so are determined to keep changing them all the time so that the children get a real buzz out of them.” Anyone interested in organising a trip to the museum should register online at http://www.littlemuseum. ie/visit-the-museum/i-love-dublinclasses
The Gazette Newspaper Group has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for unwanted and abandoned dogs. Our Dog of the Week is fabulous Fender, a two-and-a-halfyear-old male whippet cross. As well as being one handsome hound, this boy is also one happy chappy. With bundles of energy and a real zest for life, he would be most suited to an active home with kids over 14 years – where he can get plenty of walks and most importantly lots of attention! This eager-to-please, clever clogs knows sit, down and heel and would love the opportunity to attend training and socialisation classes where he can learn many more commands. If you think you could give this super guy the loving forever home he so deserves then please contact Dogs Trust on 01-879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www.dogstrust.ie. You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/ dogstrustireland or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE.
GAZETTE
18 GAZETTE 21 March 2013
OUT&ABOUT Paisly patterned trousers €22.99 RRP €89
Bright stripe shift dress €39.99 RRP €265
Blue Floral print dress €22.99
Spring/Summer sneak peak THERE’S nothing like the feeling you get when you see designer clothes at affordable prices, and that’s the feeling everyone gets when they visit TK Maxx. This week, Gazette Style takes a sneak preview of what’s on offer at the store this spring/summer. It has all the biggest trends coming
straight from the catwalk including: graphic prints, sports luxe, 1960s mod, spring florals and monochrome patterns. Buyers deal directly with designers, so they get the latest trends at a fraction of the price, some with up to 60% off the original RRP. So get happy, and start shopping!
Black & white peplum dress €39.99 RRP €179.99
TK Maxx Coral top €12.99 Multi print blazer €39.99
TK Maxx Black and white stripe leggings €9.99
Black and white stripe midi dress €39.99
21 March 2013 GAZETTE 19
LAURA WEBB style@gazettegroup.com
WAV E g o o d b y e t o smudged pedicures and say hello to a quick fiveminute treatment that allows you to pop your shoes on straight afterwards without the use of a UV or LED lamp. Jessica Nails has developed a revolutionary new gel pedicure that goes on in five minutes with no lamp needed to cure, and what’s more, it lasts for up to four weeks, just like gel nails. Jessica Fusion takes between five to 10 minutes to complete, so it can be easily done during a lunch-break. O ve r 2 0 0 b e a u t y salons nationwide are already stocking this product, which is available through French Cosmetics, a one-stop shop for professional beauty products based in Trim, which caters for over 1,500 beauty salons in Ireland. “The joy of this, and it’s why it’s exploded, with lots of beauty editors contacting us about it, is that you don’t need a lamp to cure it, and people do find that cumbersome to do. All you do is buff the nail, file and buff it, it’s for toenails only. You apply a primer, which sets it, then the colour, then primer, colour and primer and that’s it. It sets straight away and it takes just five minutes
Sarah Beirne, sales and marketing manager, French Cosmetics, Glenda Gilson, Ken Boylan and Tara Collier, national trainer, French Cosmetics at the launch of Jessica Fusion in Ken Boylan’s salon recently
to do it and the client can put their shoes on straight away,” Sarah Beirne of French Cosmetics explained. “Currently, there are six colours in the range, with a further 10 coming out in the next two weeks. The colours are lovely and vibrant. Jessica is always innovating new colours and new ideas. She would have been the person who invented the French manicure. “What is great about this product is it’s so quick to do, people don’t have time to wait. You want to get your toenails done perfectly and done maybe during your
lunch break and this is done in 5 to 10 minutes and you’re out the door. “We launched it in Ken Boylan’s recently and invited some celebrities, bloggers a nd beauty editors to try it for themselves, to see what they think. It was well received, a lot of
them were worried about putting their shoes on, but they could. “We have been out the door with queries since then, which is great,” she added. Jessica’s Fusion is set to completely revolutionise the gel market in
Ireland and is already huge in LA with celebrities including Demi Moore, Rihanna, Christina Aguilera and Jennifer Lopez, to name a few. To find out for yourself just how revolutionary it is, take a trip to Ken Boylan’s make-up studio on Drury Street where you can have Jessica Fusion applied for the reasonable price of €18. The product is only available in participating beauty salons. To find a salon near you, or to find out details on stocking Jessica Fusion, contact sarah@frenchcosmet ics.ie
Don’t forget to send in your style question for our Style Q&A with Littlewoods Ireland Ambassador, Caroline Morahan. The Star Question will win €50 voucher for Littlewoods Ireland. Email style@gazettegroup.com The next Q&A is out March 28.
GAZETTE
Goodbye smudged pedicures, hello Fusion
STYLE
BEAUTY news Be camera-ready with Neutrogena
BE camera ready, and get up close and confident in your skin, thanks to Neutrogena’s new Visibly Clear Pore and Shine skincare products. Neutrogena says this new generation of skincare solution tackles two major skin concerns at once: pores and shine. During research, the team at Neutrogena found that 84% of women feel that large pores and shiny skin can make it hard to achieve a flawless complexion, leaving women feeling self-conscious about their skin. Meanwhile, scientific research has also shown that large pores are linked with the excess sebum levels that cause shine. To help tackle this problem, Neutrogena formulated Visibly Clear Pore and Shine, designed to give you more flawless skin and help achieve closeup confidence. The Neutrogena Visibly Clear Pore and Shine Daily Scrub (€5.58) has a double action for tightened pores and mattified skin, providing a flawless-looking complexion. The range also includes the Neutrogena Visibly Clear Pore and Shine Daily Wash (€5.58). A unique facial wash visibly mattifies the skin and unclogs pores. Available at stockists nationwide.
A natural finish with Teint Visionnaire WHAT do we want in our foundation? Coverage? Yes. A natural finish? Of course! And skincare efficacy? Yes, please! Well, that’s what Lancome’s newest foundation is offering. Teint Visionnaire comes in a compact bottle that has a very clever lid compartment with easy to work highcoverage concealer and a mirror to help achieve coverage when on the go. The fluid foundation is lightweight and easy to apply. It also evens out skin’s wrinkles or fine lines and gives a great natural finish. What’s also great about this new product is it works with the skin to improve skin quality within four weeks. Teint Visionnaire (RRP €45) is available in 18 different tones. See Lancome counters for further information.
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20 gazette 21 March 2013
OUT&ABOUT
CINEMA
Theatre
THE pavilioN THEATRE 01 231 2929 An Audience with Sir Jonathan Miller
SIR Jonathan has enjoyed one of the most stellar careers in modern theatre and opera with several classic productions to his credit. A fully qualified physician he has become a very high-profile television personality and public intellectual. This is a fantastic opportunity for audiences to see, listen and ask questions of one of the most prolific broadcasters, directors and thinkers of our time. March 18-23, tickets are priced at €20/€17.
Draiocht 01 885 2622 Battle of the Bands
AFTER a successful first year, Miniature Jack will be hosting a second local Battle of the Bands and it promises to be as good as the last! This heat will showcase some of our local, young talent with performances from Carmine, Ryan Bhasker and The Tracks. March 22, tickets are priced at €8.
Mill THEATRE Dundrum 01 296 9340 Female of the Species
FEMALE of the Species is more deadly than the male…. A fascinating study of the female species, with some hilarious discoveries. Catch the show on March 22 and 23, tickets are priced at €20/€18.
Frank Langella marvels at how grown up Johnny Five has gotten
review: Frank langella and a robot prove a formidable duo
Brilliant, frankly THE Sundance seal of approval has been worn less easily in recent years, not so much a marker of quality, but a millstone around the necks of otherwise great films. 2011 Jury Prize winner Like Crazy sank without a trace, despite being one of the best relationship films of the millenium and Steve Coogan’s Hamlet 2, which sold for an eight-figure sum in 2008, grossed roughly half of its rights cost. So, when you get notice that a movie that shared a win of the Alfred B Sloan Prize, which recognises films which deal with science and technology, is about to hit screens, it is understandable that there would be apprehension. Especially when you consider that the stars are a 75-year-old character actor and a robot.
Film of the Week: Robot & Frank h h h h (12A) 89 mins Director: Jake Schreier Starring: Frank Langella, Susan Sarandon, Peter Sarsgaard, James Marsden, Liv Tyler
Paul hosford phosford@gazettegroup.com
S o m e h o w, R o b o t & Frank director Jake Schreier manages to lift his film above all expectations. Schreier, in his directorial debut, manages to keep what could easily turn into a 1980s’ buddy-comedy on a straight track while also making the near-future setting both novel and interesting. When we meet Frank, he is a retired cat burglar and a near shut-in. His kids (Tyler and Marsden) are worried about him in a way that guilty offspring are prone to be. Rather than put their father in fulltime care,
OUR VERDICT:
BEAUTIFULLY shot, warmly written and expertly acted, this is a slice of indie heaven. Langella leads the line brilliantly, with his Frank warm enough to allow the viewer to see past his obvious flaws. Marsden and Tyler also excel in their roles as Frank’s put-upon children and Sarandon sparkles as a love interest. But this a buddy film dominated by two best friends: Robot and Frank
Marsden’s Tyler decides that a robot companion is just what his father needs to improve his health. T he robot, voiced by Peter Sarsgaard, looks like it could have stepped off the stage at a Japanese tech show and actually feels like a human character. Much of that is down to Peter Sarsgaard, whose voice work as Robot is warm and empathetic. Sarsgaard is an excellent actor, one who just doesn’t get enough good roles, but his work here helps create a dynamic
with Langella which would otherwise be difficult to capture. Langella, of course, deserves huge credit for this too. Here he is in sparkling form, making you rue the fact that an eminently talented screen actor would eschew the medium for the vast majority of his career. Oscar-nominated in 2008 for his portrayal of Richard Nixon in Frost/Nixon, Langella has performed just four live-action roles since. He has been primarily a stage actor for the majority of his 50-year
career and it is apparent that the stage’s gain has been screen’s loss. Here, with Frank slipping further into dementia, Langella makes him a sy mpathetic man, albeit one who is planning to steal millions of dollars of jewels. As his relationship with the local librarian (Susan Sarandon) blossoms, Frank shows a more tender side to his personality, while a twist at the end really brings the light feelings to the ground with a heavy bump. O ve r a l l , S c h r e i e r deserves credit for keeping big issues (technology, mental deteroration) from dominating what is really a very good story, free of moralising or pontificating. But, at the end of the day, this is Langella’s film and he steals it thoroughly. Pardon the pun.
21 March 2013 GAZETTE 21
GAZETTE
GAMING SIM CITY: SOME IN-BUILT PROBLEMS
It’s not quite a towering achievement AT THE time of writing, legions of would-be city planners are still marching through the (virtual) streets of their carefully planned cities, ready to wave burning torches and chair legs in the general direction of games developer Maxis, and games publisher/developer Electronic Arts. But first, we need to step back just a little bit, to the very recent release of the long-awaited PC and Mac title, Sim City – the latest in a long line of Sim City games, and the one that created the most press, too. As the name suggests, Sim City is a city simulation game where, as a blend of mayor, architect, planner and, well, God, you strive to create a large, happy, functioning city, working on everything from tax rates to sewage lines, deciding
SHANE DILLON sdillon@gazettegroup.com
where residential zones should develop – oh, and are they well served by public transport, or are you setting up traffic jams for disgruntled citizens? All this, and a thousand other questions and issues to sort out in your role as The Man. Sure, this may sound as deathly dull as porridge, but Sim City has always been an extremely popular series, for many years. Perhaps the ability to enable or add disasters helps – there’s nothing like seeing a giant monster attacking Downtown to liven up your morning budget meeting.
BYTES&PIECES
PIRATES TO BRIDGE TWO PLATFORMS?
Next Assassin’s Creed sequel could usher in the PS4 IT’S been interesting to note the interest in the recently announced Assassin’s Creed 4, which seems set for release in October and, with its 1715 Caribbean setting (and pirates ahoy), splashes on the heels of the fairly-recent (and very pretty, but ever-soslightly dull) AC3. However, what’s made the most impact is not that AC4 is on the way so soon, but that it also seems to be a dual-platform release, for both the PlayStation 3 and the PS4. This would be a very helpful benchmark to note the step-up in graphics, and capabilities, in the eagerly awaited console.
Traditionally presented with an elevated isometric view, the series has finally evolved to suit modern tastes, with a beautifully presented full 3D world to whirl around in, complete with intricately modelled buildings, fixtures and fittings, while those with powerful enough gaming rigs can enjoy some particularly great visual effects. Apart from the colossal leap forward in graphics, a serious overhaul has also changed how the game functions, with proper computing of each citizen’s interests/feelings adding to the overall state of the city’s progress, rather than using fairly generic algorithms to guide gameplay. So, in many ways, Maxis really delivered a terrific update for Sim City fans, as well as creating a more accessible title for newcomers. Unfortunately, that’s where the good news stops, as a number of unwelcome points need to be highlighted. Chief of these, and as a singularly unwelcome development, Sim City is now on online-only game (so as to monitor and exchange data with other players and cities). No internet access: no game – not a ver y attractive or game-friendly option to buy into, but what has created a mob of irate gamers is the fact
If you want to build a greener version of Chongqing, flavoured with a dash of Seattle, you can – just be prepared to tinker with lots of under-the-bonnet settings (below) to help make your megapolis thrive
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that the game servers – and, by proxy, Maxis and EA – had greatly underestimated the amount of players that would be logging on. The result: an almost unplayable game for the few who managed to log on and play to begin with, with players just as immobile as the teeny tiny cars and trucks stranded at a badly-designed intersection. Caught by surprise, EA issued an apology and has been working to address the server/access issues, but it hasn’t stopped gamers venting their anger and frustration all over t’internet. Indeed, things got so bad that, briefly, Sim City’s advertising was suspended, while some retailers,
including Amazon, also suspended sales. These are not the kind of negative headlines and stories that any major new games release, or company, wants to see. So, what now for Sim City? After all that, some good news again – the servers issue is being addressed, with the company determined to get everyone playing, with more than enough capacity to address surges. The occasional bugs, and pathfinding issues, are also being addressed, in a bid to help make your city a success. If EA and Maxim can sort out these teething problems – and soon – Sim City should be a pretty cool place to visit ...
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22 Gazette 21 March 2013
Gazette
& OUT ABOUT road NOISE
MOTORS
review: multi-award winner will impress buyers with €15k price tag
Dacia Duster to be a smart buy in Irish SUV market n Cormac Curtis
Michael Grant Renault to sponsor DCU Fashion Show Michael Grant Renault in Dublin 4 is the title sponsor of the 2013 DCU Fashion Show which takes place at The Helix on March 26. This year’s show, themed Power of Paradise, is organised by the DCU Style Society in association with Michael Grant Renault, and will tell the story of an evolving planet inspired by the expressive nature of fashion. The annual fashion extravaganza will showcase spring/summer 2013 collections from high street and vintage boutiques and will help raise awareness for Bodywhys, the eating disorders association of Ireland. Renault’s new sexy range of cars including New Clio, New Mégane and New Fluence, will hit the catwalk on March 26 at The Helix. Michael Grant is pictured on the red carpet catwalk with the New Renault Clio and models and designers from the DCU Style Society at the launch of the 2013 Fashion Show.
The new sleek Kia Carens to land in Ireland this May The new 2013 Kia Carens will go on sale in Ireland this coming May. Powered by the economical 1.7D engine that powers its Sportage stable mate the Carens comes in a choice of three trim levels ( TX, EX and Platinum ) with a starting price of just €26,490.Prices for other models will be announced closer to the launch date . Standard equipment for the entry level Irish TX model includes alloy wheels, rear spoiler, LED daytime running lights, cornering lights, front and rear electric windows, luggage cargo screen, steering-mounted audio controls , and voice activated bluetooth. With a sleek and sculpted design, the all-new Kia Carens marks a dramatic shift away from the more utilitarian look of its predecessor. It features a spacious five-plus-two seating layout, a generously proportioned luggage bay and numerous stowage spaces, and wraps this family-friendly adaptability in more purposeful sheet metal.
My wife of almost 12 years has an absolutely shocking ability to spot premium products. We were once in an outlet shop where she started to eye up a display of leather purses and wallets. There were no prices marked anywhere – but the one she honed in on happened to be about $150 more expensive than the rest. Let’s just say she can do the opposite of spot a bargain. So, when I rolled home in the Dacia Duster recently, I was genuinely interested to see what she would make of this rare and unusual 4x4. Unless you have been paying close attention to the motoring press or happen to know someone in the trade – there is ever y chance you have never even heard of the brand Dacia. Believe it or not, the brand has been in existence since 1966, and started building Renault models under licence for the Eastern European and Russian market in 1968. I n 19 9 9 , R e n a u l t finally bought the company, which have just been introduced to the Irish market, starting with the Duster. So what can you expect? I have already described the Duster as unusual, and, because it such a rare sight on Irish roads, it most certainly is. But when you look at the price tag – just €14,990 – I’m certain
The Dacia Duster will be available in Ireland in both 4x2 and 4x4 guises with one diesel engine size
you will begin to take interest. So what did my wife make of it? I was expecting her to spot it as a low-cost model from the first look, but that didn’t happen. Because the Duster does look the part. Simple and functiontal, with just enough style to be easy on the eye. That’s what you get. T he Duster offers some serious room in its very straightforward interior – my two kids looked swallowed up in the rear seats. I wouldn’t describe the interior of the Duster as special – it is functional. Yo u c o u l d p r o b ably find enough space between some of the dashboard panels to fit the thin edge of a credit card, and I needed to
press the cabin light back into the roof with my thumb. But so what? If you buy a new Dacia, you’ll have a warranty to cover any teething problems like this. Dacia expect their cars to shake things up in Ireland – a lot. And who could blame them? At a time when prices seem to be climbing for almost everything else, Dacia brings a refreshing smart-buy concept to Ireland and is one of the most interesting motor stories of 2012. The launch of Dacia Duster in Europe in 2010 saw such a demand from eager customers that resulted in a sixmonth waiting list for the much-anticipated vehicle in Germany and France. The SUV segment is the fastest growing seg-
ment in Ireland and is up 9% YTD on 2011. Almost 90% of vehicles in the SUV segment are over €22,500 to buy new or even over €24,500 to have the equivalent diesel engine for the best seller of the segment, so with that in mind, the Duster will quickly become a very attractive contender for those looking at buying a new SUV, a new family car or even a used car. The multi-award winning Duster will impress buyers with its chunky and unpretentious styling, impressive and
versatile interior space, peerless build quality and unbeatable value for money. The Duster will be available in Ireland in both 4x2 and 4x4 guises with one diesel engine size, a 1.5 dCi 110Bhp in Band B with two trims, Alternative 4x2 and Signature 4x2, 4x4, and comes with an up to five-year, unlimited mileage warranty. The Dacia Duster will be available at the nine dedicated Dacia Dealers around the country. Visit www.dacia.ie for more information.
21 March 2013 BLANCH gazette 23
Gazette
MUSIC FASTtunes with Radio Nova’s Dee Woods
Lizzy legacy will go on despite name change Girls Aloud: A magnificent concert signalled the probable end of an era at the O2 arena last Saturday night
concert review: a lesson in the craft from the fab five
Girls’ pop perfection I have a confession to make. I love pop music. I am, and will forever be, a complete sucker for a timeless melody and a killer chorus. The magic that is imbued into this form by the perfect synergy of songwriters, producers, designers, stylists and the artist themselves, is potent indeed. To underestimate or blindly criticise pop is to miss the point entirely. The accumulated output of the likes of Phil Spector, the writers of the Brill Building, Trevor Horn, Motown, and countless others throughout the years have the power to stop traffic and make you dance. It’s about emotion in motion, and reaches a part of the brain few other forms of music can.
ROB heigh rheigh@gazettegroup.com
Therefore, it’s a bittersweet pleasure to have been able to attend what most are presuming will be the last ever Dublin show of the only genuine pop sensation of the last 10 years, Girls Aloud. W hy are they so beloved? We connected with the girls, and still love them, because they were from an era before we were jaded beyond belief by television “talent” shows. Before there was X Factor, there was Popstars: The Rivals. It
produced One True Voice and Girls Aloud. Only one of these acts are on their tenth anniversary tour. The others are asking if you’d like to go large with that meal. And what made them endure? GA were like real people, we related to them from the outset. They were clumsy, a little awkward at times, making mistakes along the way, and that lack of polish made them endearing. They took around five years to become the complete product, and their Tangled Up album in 2007 was their creative pinnacle – it remains a classic of the genre, electronic pop at its most effective. And the show was, simply put, immaculate. From five icons emerging
amid the fireworks atop a glittering Girls Aloud sign to their classy exit dressed in red gowns after their shout to the Wall Of Sound, The Promise, last Saturday night was a lesson in showgirlship and how to construct a great pop show, that simultaneously showcased their run of peerless pop singles and the immense ability of their producers, Xenomania. Broken into four segments containing five of their classic songs (and one cover version, which ought to have been jettisoned in favour of the absent Long Hot Summer), it was a breathless and breathtaking exercise in how to do this kind of show just right. Ronan Keating was a few seats
away, no doubt furiously taking notes. I couldn’t see, I was too busy dancing. T h e m i n d b l ow i n g opening quintet – Sound Of The Underground, No Good Advice, Life Got Cold, Wake Me Up and Jump – was just a taster of what was to follow. Great pop songs sung well (very well by Nicola and Nadine, it must be said) and backed by a powerful and tight backing band, did complete justice to their legacy over the course of probably the best 90 minutes of pure pop the city will see this year. As the stagelights faded and the glitter cannons blasted their last, so Girls Aloud shall remain – timeless and classic.
If you’re a hoarder like me, then you’ve the ticket stub of every concert you’ve been to on a wall or stuffed in a box somewhere, along with band memorabilia you’ve collected over the years. And it’s times like this I’m glad I hang on to these things to remind me of memorable gigs... that my ailing memory struggles to recall, while my ear drums slowly deteriorate. If you were one of the lucky few to see Thin Lizzy rock out The Olympia Theatre last December, I hope you kept your ticket because, as of this month, fans will never see the band members go by that name again. The boys we’ve been calling Thin Lizzy, played their last gig under that moniker in Australia last weekend, supporting Kiss and Motley Crue. Thin Lizzy drummer Brian Downey and keyboardist Darren Wharton are also parting ways with the band, so now members Ricky Warwick, Damon Johnson, Scott Gorham and Marco Mendoza, together with drummer Jimmy DeGrasso (of Alice Cooper and Megadeth fame) are now officially called Black Star Riders. The Riders (whose name was inspired by Warwick’s favourite Western movie, Tombstone) say they changed their name “out of respect to the legacy of the late Phil Lynott”, although Lizzy fans can rest assured, the classic Lizzy hits will still be heard at their live gigs, alongside original material from the band. Black Star Riders’ debut album, All Hell Breaks Loose, will be released here on May 27, with the album’s first single, Bound For Glory, is out now. The album’s produced by Kevin Shirley, who’s worked with the likes of Journey, Aerosmith and Rush, and the band are hinting they’ll play another Dublin gig before the end of the year. Don’t forget to keep your ticket!
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24 BLANCH gazette 21 March 2013
OUT&ABOUT
adventure: Fun-packed holiday for We have 135,000* thrill seekers in adventureland readers each week *based on standard industry measurements
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Awaken spirit of adventure up North
natalie burke
WHILE adventure holidays usually conjure up faint images of climbing Mount Everest, exploring the Grand Canyon or hiking an Alpine Trail, often the travelling dream for a lot of us can remain just a fantasy. So who would have thought that we could enjoy an unforgettable and adrenaline pumping adventure weekend right here on our own doorstep? Getting older, we have a tendency to lose the fearlessness we once had as a child. Suddenly strapping yourself into a roller-
coaster doesn’t seem quite so safe. But pushing your fear to the limit and challenging yourself with new adventures is one sure way to get your heart pumping and for me, on a recent trip to preview what is in store with this year’s Adventureland, it was one way of finding the child in me once again! The North Coast is set to host a total of 34 different activity events this weekend, for the third year of Adventureland. With everything from coasteering and sea safaris to paddle boarding and hovercrafting, Northern Ireland’s top events will be offered at a fraction of
the price for one weekend only. Setting off from Dublin, it was County Derry that was in our sights as our first pitstop. Just two and a half hours from Dublin is The Jungle NI, an awardwinning outdoor entertainment facility located on a very successful farm diversity project in Moneymore – one of many in Northern Ireland we were to find out. While paintballing, segways and clay-pigeon shooting were just some of the activities on the menu, it was the Tree Top adventure course we were there to try and attempt. The first in Ireland, it’s
Xplore Outdoors offers various activities, including kayaking
Brace yourself for the zip line and various challenges
a high wire course with a bit of a difference. It has over 40 challenging obstacles to try and overcome, with rope bridges, wooden swings, scramble nets and tight-ropes, which all sound easy enough until you discover that some of these are located 70ft in the air. It’s okay though, since you’re in safe hands and harnessed to safety wires throughout the forest, but it’s the fear of falling anyway that really makes this adventure all the more appealing! Highlights definitely included the Tarzan (or Jane) swing through the trees, a zipline and the freefall drop to safety. On solid ground again, it was less than an hour’s drive until our next port of call at Portrush Harbour, County Antrim, where we were to take part in something a little closer to land. During the Adventureland weekend – and all through the year
– Xplore Outdoors provide sessions celebrating everything the Great Outdoors has to offer including coasteering, mountain skills, rockclimbing and sea kayaking. And despite the freezing temperatures and threatening rain, it was the latter we decided to brave. Climbing into a wetsuit in the cold wind and rain wasn’t something I was used to doing, but as soon as we climbed into the kayaks and set about learning the ropes, so to speak, we were soon warmed up. While the weather failed to allow us to sail the high seas, our tutor Steve Hodge, explained how on a good day, the sea kayaking adventure takes kayakers to explore the numerous sea caves gracing the Northern Ireland coastline, and to see famous landmarks including the Causeway, Carrick-a-rede rope bridge and Dunluce Cas-
21 March 2013 BLANCH gazette 25
at the The Jungle NI at Moneymore
tle from a slightly different perspective. We stayed at the Ramada Hotel in Portrush, just five minutes from the harbour and at the very centre of the coastal town. With over 70 en-suite rooms, ours overlooked the Atlantic Ocean, and the Counties Bar and Restaurant was buzzing with locals and tourists alike. What better way to end an activity-filled day than to enjoy a well-deserved glass of wine, a delicious starter of tempura chicken satay and a steak covered in garlic and mushroom sauce? The fear was well worth the wait! A visit to the nearby Harbour Bar is a must for visitors hoping for a good pint of Guinness at the oldest pub in Northern Ireland. Ask for barman Willy and he’ll be certain to look after you. The following morning brought with it a scenic drive along the Coastal Causeway Route to Lima-
vady in Derry, the location of FoyleHov Hovercrafting. Another farm diversity project, the farm has acres of land perfect for activities and features rage buggying, target archery and laser clay shooting along with the arrival of new born lambs. Kitted out in our boiler-suits, we took to the hovercrafting track with its hair-pin turns and water hazards and discovered talents we never knew we had! Our timed laps even managed to beat a certain Gary Lineker, a previous visitor to the farm. With a total of 34 events taking place over the Adventureland week-
end, which takes place on March 23 and 24, all activity providers offer services throughout the year. So for those in search of an extra thrill this summer, visit www.OutdoorNI.com or www.dis covernorthernireland. com.
websites www.thejungleni.
com www.xploreout
doors.co.uk www.foylehov.com www.ramadapor
trush.com www.outdoorni.com www.discover
northernireland.com
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26 BLANCH GAZETTE 21 March 2013
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PLANNING NOTICE FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL
PLANNING NOTICE FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL
Planning permission is sought by E.P. Lynam Properties Ltd. for development of a residential institution (nursing home) on lands at Scribblestown Road, Ashtown, Dublin 15. The development proposed relates to Local Objective 580 of the Fingal Development Plan 2011 – 2017 which seeks to “provide for a residential institution (nursing home)‌â€?. The development will comprise of a two-storey split level (part single-storey/part two-storey) building consisting of 85 no. bedrooms with associated ancillary/common facilities and office/administration areas. The development also provides for 53 no. car parking spaces, 1 no. new vehicular access onto Scribblestown Road, 2 no. pumping stations, 1 no. ESB substation, upgrading of sewer network and footpath along Scribblestown Road, landscaping, and all associated site development works. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation may be made to the 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 this application.
I Laura Day intend to seek permission for permanent continuation of existing preschool at 42Whitestown Walk, Blanchardstown, D15 granted permission under Reg Ref. FW09A/0164, to increase pupil numbers from 10 to 14 and to operate from 9.30 am to 12.30pm and from 1.30 pm to 5.30pm .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 that a submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the authority in writing on the payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application.
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21 March 2013 BLANCH Gazette 27
sport awards P29
asdfsdaf gaelic games P27 P31
dublinsport Let the Gazette keep you up to date with all the best local sporting action from around the city as we cover all the stories that matter to you and your community
Gazette
soccer P28
FastSport make some noise for katie:
Chloe Clarke, who appears with her sister, Ruby, in Three’s new advert showing the highs and lows of being an Ireland soccer fan
soccer: sandyford stars appear in new campaign to back the irish team
Superfans in focus as 3 pick local women to front new ads Two sisters from the south of Dublin have nabbed roles in the latest television advert for mobile phone provider Three, sponsor of the Irish football team, in recognition of their huge support for the Republic’s international soccer stars. Chloe and Ruby Clarke who reside in Sandyford and hail from Knocklyon have their own careers to reflect on, with both southside sisters having played for Templeogue United for nine years. The advert, entitled An Ode To Fans, features members of Ireland’s largest football supporters club, You Boys in
Green, who were approached to make sure that genuine fans would be the stars of the ad. As genuine fans go, Chloe is certainly entitled to that title, having attended her first match with her dad at the age of seven, when her Dad took the family to Malta when Ireland were playing. Since then, she has been to every home game, as well as a couple of away games every year. As a committed fan, emigrating was not even an issue, as Chloe explains. “I missed a couple of matches when
I was in Australia, which was hard. But I watched as many games as I could on television as possible, although most of the games were on at 4am.” Chloe flew home from Australia for the European championships last year, going to Posnan and Gdansk for Ireland’s matches, which was a memorable experience: “It was incredible. It was worth all the money in the world. Just going to the airport, kitted from head to toe in green. Everything is left behind, all you care about is the match. Everyone is backing each other up and support-
ing the team, and the adrenaline and the buzz can’t be gotten anywhere else.” As for being involved in the advert, Chloe said: “It was really enjoyable, I’ve never done anything like it. Just watching it now, I’m getting goosebumps ahead of the Sweden game. The ad captures what it is like to be a fan – especially the sleeping in the airport scene!” The advert arrives just in time for the World Cup qualifying matches against Sweden and Austria on March 22 and 26, and can be seen on Three’s Facebook page.
Katie Taylor is hoping that Irish fans can raise the roof like they did in London’s Docklands Arena at the Olympics in 2012 when she takes to the ring in Dublin and Castlebar this weekend. Promoter Brian Peters believes fans will make some noise for their heroine. “The Bord Gais Energy Theatre certainly lived up to its name last month,” said Peters. “We’re going to measure the decibels to see how they compare to the Olympics.” Tickets for Taylor’s bout in Dublin tomorrow (Friday, March 22) are priced from €40, with discounted tickets available for Under 14s from €25 and are available from the BGET box office and Ticketmaster.
c o n ta c t s Sports Editor: Rob Heigh rheigh@gazettegroup.com
For more information or to send in news and photos: sport@gazettegroup.com Phone: 01 651 6205
Gazette
28 BLANCH Gazette 21 March 2013
SPORT
FastSport gaa stars unite to BEAT racism: Local GAA stars Barry Cahill and Cliona O’Connor were on hand to help launch a new education pack aimed at tackling racism in sports organisations and schools. The education pack, which has been developed by anti-racism charity Show Racism the Red Card, was launched at Croke Park, and coordinator Garrett Mullan spoke about the influence sport can have on addressing the issue. “Sports stars are well placed to tackle racism and set a positive example of integration. The beauty of sport is it unites people from all walks of life. It breaks down barriers. Our new education pack draws on this, and uses sport as a means of teaching young people about racism and related issues.” Further information is available at www.theredcard.ie.
international: side packed with local talent exceed expectations
Ireland make grade in Cyprus sport@gazettegroup.com
The Republic of Ireland senior women’s team, featuring an array of Gazette Sport talent, finished the Cyprus Cup tournament in eighth place, an impressive and accomplished achievement for the team after topping their group in the opening stages. Going in as the side ranked tenth in the invitational tournament, the Irish women defeated Northern Ireland 5-1 and South Africa 2-0 in the group stages, drawing with world number 16 side, South Korea, in their group closer. South Korea are ranked 18 places higher in the FIFA World Rankings. Ireland went out to Finland, ranked 19th in the world and preparing for their third successive
appearance at the European Championship finals, who scored the only goal of the game through Sanna Talonen after 20 minutes . Speaking after the team arrived home last week, captain Emma Byrne, who originally hails from Leixlip and who plays her club soccer with Arsenal, was delighted with how the team had performed against higher-ranked opposition. “It was brilliant,” said Byrne. “Although we were very disappointed to lose to Finland and felt we should have beaten them, it was still a great week and has probably given Sue [Ronan, Ireland coach] a few selection headaches. “I was a bit apprehensive beforehand, especially as we were missing
so many big-hitters like Fiona O’Sullivan, Sophie Perry and Ciara Grant, but the young players who came in were really good and ever ybody gelled together so well,” said Byrne. The goalkeeper found herself thrown in at the deep end as Sue Ronan was forced through injuries, withdrawals and retirements to name an inexperienced squad with six uncapped players and only six with 20 or more caps, and was proud of the side’s achievement, though disappointed with the way they exited the tournament. “The game against South Korea was a great test and we did very well against a good side but we didn’t play as well as we can against Finland and we gave away a
Ireland captain and goalkeeper, Emma Byrne, pictured here in yellow in the back row, was pleased with the side’s performance in Cyprus
sloppy goal so that was disappointing because I felt we were the better team.” Byrne was named as team captain ahead of the tournament in succession to Arsenal teammate Ciara Grant who decided to retire from international football at the age of 34 after a record 105 appearances. Although Byrne captained the team in the
US last December, this was her first outing since being given the armband permanently and she admitted she enjoyed the role up to a point. “I love the pitch part of the job, leading the team out, doing the toss and being like a motherfigure to the other players. I didn’t like having to know all the times of things we were doing or choosing what to wear at each. I think I’ll have
to delegate that bit next time,” quipped Byrne who admitted that she looking forward to leading the team out at Tallaght on June 18 when Ireland plays Austria. “That will be a brilliant moment to lead the team out in front of my family and friends,” said Byrne. The team’s next game will be on Tuesday, June 18, against Austria at Tallaght Stadium.
Leinster referees get masterclass from elite Fresh from refereeing the recent Six Nations clash with France at the Aviva Stadium, International Rugby Board (IRB) elite panel referees Steve Walsh from New Zealand and England’s Wayne Barnes and Greg Garner took time out to take part in a refereeing workshop, hosted by Emirates Airline, at Old Wesley RFC. Thirty aspiring amateur referees from a number of Leinster clubs were taken through their paces by the
professionals and given coaching in areas such as the latest laws, big game preparation and management, training and diet. The guinea pigs for the event were Old Wesley players themselves, who were used in the drills and law explanations on the field. Those in attendance also had the opportunity to quiz the IRB men on what it takes to earn and maintain a place on the IRB elite panel and what
it’s like to have a career in international refereeing. Emirates, which operates a daily service from Dublin to Dubai and beyond, has sponsored the IRB international referees panel since 2006, a partnership which sees the Fly Emirates logo proudly displayed on officials’ clothing across the Six Nations, Tri-Nations, international tours, U-19 and U-21 internationals and the IRB Sevens Series.
The group of Leinster amateur referees who attended the workshop at Old Wesley
21 March 2013 BLANCH Gazette 29
Gazette
Dublin heroes get their just rewards
The fourth annual Dublin Sport Awards was a night that celebrated the best in local sport, and saw legends old and new crowned in recognition of their achievements For the last four years, it has been a challenge to sit down and pick out the monthly heroes who are nominated in Gazette Sport’s Dublin Sport Awards. The scale of the achievements that we have the privilege to report on every week is remarkable, which makes the task even harder. We had another wonderful year in 2012, and it came to a celebratory close at the Red Cow Moran Hotel last week with the fourth Dublin Sport Awards gala evening. We always aim to recognise those who go further, run faster, train harder and succeed, sometimes against the
rob heigh sport@gazettegroup.com
odds, and this year was no exception. Honouring Catherine Walsh and St Brigid’s Under-14s were, in the end, the clear choices in a year of amazing performances and achievements. Annexing silver and bronze in London last year, as well as gold at the World Track Championships in Los Angeles, was only a small part of what makes Catherine Walsh a true star.
She has competed in no less than six Paralympic Games, making her unique in the history of Irish sport. Catherine identified the positive response of the crowds, fans and supporters of the Paralympics as a huge legacy that she hopes will continue. “London was an amazing experience for everyone, friends and family, and the fans who were able to watch the games in real time. For a lot of people, for them to be able to share in it and feel part of the atmosphere, was really special. “I would hope that the support the Paralympics received will continue.
Boxing legend Mick Dowling receives his Dublin Sports Legend award from Red Cow Moran Hotel’s Adrian Sherry
The Paralympics is nearly more empowering than the Olympics. “I hope that people out there of a competitive nature in the sporting arena, or whatever your goal is, you should just go for it. If you have the ambition and passion
each month’s prizes on the night, really polished off their year – the lads were delighted with their awards.” Also rewarded was Dublin boxing hero Mick Dowling in recognition of his years of support of the sport and his unique
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‘Whatever your goal is, you should just go for it. If you have the ambition and passion to do it, you can do anything’ - Catherine Walsh, Sport Star of the Year --------------------------------------------------------
to do it, you can do anything.” St Brigid’s Under-14s also achieved something unique and historic. With the footballers defeating Portlaoise in their All-Ireland final, and the hurlers seeing off Clarinbridge after coming under pressure in their final, this remarkable group of players are the first in GAA history to win the hurling and football double. Dublin legend Keith Barr, who manages the St Brigid’s Under-14 footballers was on hand to extend his praise to what he described as a “phenomenal bunch of players”. “It’s a wonderful award and to be considered as the team of the year, especially considering the esteemed company of the teams who won
and insightful analysis of the sweet science on radio and television. “It’s impor tant to have nights like this and awards like this,” said Dowling, “It’s good that some of the lesser known local teams and individuals get an opportunity to be honoured. “As for the future, I think there is a conveyor belt of really good talent, under-age talent, in all sports. Looking at the winners tonight from St Brigid’s, from Blanchardstown and Castleknock, the talent that they have is exceptional.” All in all, it was an exceptional year, and we’re already looking forward to reporting on Dublin’s finest throughout 2013, and to next year’s Dublin Spor t Awards.
FastSport
Take part and win with Gazette Sport and SPAR Great Ireland Run Dublin Gazette Newspapers have teamed up again this year with the SPAR Great Ireland Run to recognise the top runners in each of our local areas. The Gazette will recognise the fastest man and woman from each paper’s circulation area with a specially designed plaque as well as prizes of sports gear. After the run, we will also be publishing a results list of the top local male and female finishers. The SPAR Great Ireland Run 2013 will take place in the Phoenix Park on Sunday, April 14, at 1pm. Up to 12,000 entries are expected and every adult entrant will receive an exclusive technical T shirt as well as a medal and a generous goody bag after completing the run. Entries can be made online at www.greatirelandrun.org.
Gazette
30 BLANCH Gazette 21 March 2013
SPORT
FastSport
soccer: Mountview come back to claim point in DDSL
Sackville secure title with Hawkshaw strike Sarah Hawkshaw’s thumping penalty corner drive 12 minutes from time saw Mount Sackville retain the Leinster Schoolgirls’ Hockey Senior Plate at Grange Road, coming from a goal down to defeat St Gerard’s 2-1. It was hard earned from a cracking final that swung each way throughout the hour before the Castleknock side eventual pushed the pendulum their way. Early on, Sarah Webb almost found daylight behind the back of Gerard’s defence inside a minute only for Elena Tice to brilliantly slide in a tackle and guide the ball to safety, Her side gradually grew into the tie and were in front from their first corner which Susie Delahunt smacked home from the top but Sackville were not long in bouncing back. Webb was twice more denied while Aoife Jordan was also blocked by a quick-thinking slide from the Bray side’s goalkeeper. It was level, though, when Sophie Boucher flipped the ball home from a narrow angle after two initial saves were not fully cleared, making it 1-1 at half-time. Hawkshaw – also a cross country star and Dublin ladies Gaelic football underage representative player – completed the turnaround from her side’s first penalty corner, capping a virtuoso display in midfield and up front but Gerard’s were not done yet with Bryony Biggam to the fore while underage international Claire Foley was also to the fore. The pressure continued to build, culminating in a final hooter penalty corner but Emer Byrne applied a strong boot to clear the last gasp shot to safety to secure the title for a second successive year. And head coach Una McCarthy is hopeful her side can push on next year as 10 of the 13 players available to her in this final will be around for the 2013/14 school’s campaign. Earlier on the same day, Mount Sackville’s U-14 side were undone in the final of the Minor C league as Mount Anville won out 3-0. Mount Sackville: E Byrne, H Barr, S Daly, C Fullston, S Boucher, J Bruton, S Marron, S Hawkshaw, A Jordan, A O’Connor, S Carty, A Sullivan, S Webb
Padraig Collins scores for Castleknock Celtic at home to Knocklyon United in Porterstown in the DDSL Under-14B league
Derby draw for Castleknock sport@gazettegroup.com
Mountview United hosted neighbours Castleknock Celtic in this DDSL Under-11B league game. Despite Mountview’s early pressure they were unable to trouble the Celts’ keeper, Tomas Bowe, who was being well protected by Mark Hughes and the impressive Dylan McDonagh at the back. Celtic started to gain a foothold and all of a sudden it was Mountview who were on the back foot with the two Matthews, Elliott and Russell, domi-
nating the middle of the park. Midway through the half the Celts took a deserved lead when following some clever footwork John Kane’s cross from the right was met by Reilly who bravely won the aerial duel with the Mountview defender before the ball ricocheted off the Mountview player into the goal. 1-0 to the visitors at half time. The second half began where the first finished and it was no surprise when Celtic scored a second. Conor Aughney saw his effort from the right beat the keeper before hitting the
making a difference Run for Team Marie Keating in mini-marathon glenda Gilson, Linda Keating and Yvonne
Joye are inviting women to join team Marie Keating for the annual Women’s MiniMarathon. This year, all of the ladies who join Team Marie Keating will declare their personal reason for taking part on specially designed “I’m running for…” t-shirt stickers. Organic dairy Glenisk has pledged a donation of €25,000 to help the charity to reach its fundraising target of €50,000 for the event. Visit www.mariekeating.ie or call 01 628 3728 to join Team Marie Keating.
inside of the post and as it came across the goal Dylan McDonagh was on hand to finish it off. It was constant Celtic pressure but unfortunately they lost Aughney who was having a great game to an eye injury. Minutes later Mountview broke away to score a goal with their first attack of the half. Celtic reintroduced Tony Kamara and Cathal Flynn and the result was almost immediate as a Flynn effort from the right came close. But a third was imminent and it duly followed. Celtic won a corner and Matthew Elliott hit an inch perfect cross to the ris-
ing Leigh Reilly whose deft header left the keeper with no chance. Minutes later Celtic nearly added a fourth with the move of the match. The ever reliable Hughes won the ball in defence and released it early to Russell who in turn played the ball out left to Reilly. Reilly, with his back to the defender, played the ball forward into the path of Cathal Flynn with a lovely first touch flick. Flynn had left his marker and with the keeper advancing he hit a left foot shot that drifted just outside of the right hand post. In the last quarter
M o u n t v i e w c l awe d their way back into the game when from a corner they scored and this was the lift they needed. Mountview sensed an opportunity and credit to them as they took control of the game. With just 6 minutes to go, Celtic were caught napping, when the Mountview No 8 finished in some style. 3-3 and still five minutes left. It was end to end, more akin to a cup match, with both teams throwing caution to the wind but there were no more goals and it ended with honours even.
21 March 2013 BLANCH Gazette 31
Gazette
Fingal bounce back to claim Tyrone win sport@gazettegroup.com
TWO goals in the closing stages of the first half, coupled with a scoring burst after the resumption, proved the difference when Fingal’s senior inter-county hurlers recovered from a poor start to emerge as the winners at Healy Park, defeating Tyrone
2-11 to 0-15. A Damien Casey free in the third minute put the home side in front. They went on to completely dominate the majority of the first half, and they led by 0-7 to 0-0 at one stage. It took Fingal 29 minutes to open their account but, crucially, it was a goal, with full-for-
ward David Smyth capitalising on a mistake in the Tyrone defence. Another goal from Dean Flood kept Fingal in contention at the break. Gary Fox opened the second half scoring for Tyrone but then the visitors landed six unanswered points which proved decisive.
Gerard Gilmore and Casey replied for Tyrone, but scores from John Matthew Sheridan and Brian McCarthy clinched victory for the Dublin men. It keeps Fingal in contention at the top of the NHL Division 3A with two wins and a draw from their three outings to date.
nFL & NHL Division 1: football, hurlers lose AT HQ
Club Noticeboard St Brigid’s St Brigid’s GAA Easter Camps for
Thursday in the Vineyard.
five- to 12-year-olds run from March
Watch out for our new fitness
25 to 28 during school holidays. Book
classes in our new High Performance
now via Paul or John on 087 915 4748.
Centre, full memberships for the
Best of luck to our three adult
gym also now available online. Make
hurling teams who begin their league
sure to follow our TWIST Facebook
campaigns this Sunday; adult and
page for more updates.
juvenile fixtures on the website.
Well done to our 30-plus Gaelic4-
2013 membership is now due,
Mothers and Others who continued
deadline is March 31, after which no
their training last week, newcomers
player will be allowed to train or play
are welcome every Wednesday at
for insurance reasons.
7.15pm - no experience needed.
Any member with issues regard-
Well done to all involved, particu-
ing membership can contact our club
larly the three schools who took
secretary Mary O’Connor at mar-
part in the Dublin 15 Schools Hand-
yaoc@hotmail.com.
ball Tournament, St Patrick’s, Dis-
Club nursery for four- to seven-
wellstown, Scoil Bhride, Blanchard-
year-olds continues every Satur-
stown, and St Brigid’s, Castleknock.
day morning from 9.30 to 11am. New
Some great talent on show over the
members and families welcome.
past few weeks.
Contact Paul on 087 915 4748 or email info@stbrigidsgaa.com. Club lotto jackpot is €15,000 this
Please keep dropping in your old or broken mobile phones to the club bar.
st Peregrine’s
St Brigid’s Paddy Andrews was one of the players who lined out as Dublin were pipped against Tyrone
Dublin’s dual teams dip in form at Croker sport@gazettegroup.com
IT PROVED a weekend to forget in terms of the National League for Dublin’s footballers and hurlers after both sides fell to their first defeats of their respective campaign in a Croke Park double header last Saturday. The footballers’ winning run under Jim Gavin came to an end when Tyrone shaded their encounter 0-18 to 1-14 in NFL Division One. Dublin were without several key men from their preferred starting line-up — especially Rory O’Carroll and Plunkett’s
Bernard Brogan – while Castleknock’s Ciaran Kilkenny had to be replaced in the early minutes after picking up a knee injury. That said Dublin, who featured Shane Supple in goal, made a decent start and scored in the 16th minute. St Brigid’s man Philly Ryan applied the finishing touch after Kevin McManamon had scythed his way through the Tyrone defence to put his side 1-3 to 0-2 clear. However, alarm bells were ringing at times in the Dublin defence, with Stephen O’Neill and Peter Harte dominating
the spine of the Tyrone attack. O’Neill kicked three points from play as well as being fouled for a free while Harte opened up the middle of the Dublin defence with some clever running. Tyrone closed out the opening half by scoring three points in succession to lead 0-10 to 1-6. And they were able to advance that lead to 0-18 to 1-12 after Dublin’s Michael Darragh Macauley rampaged through the Tryone defence but skied his goal effort over the crossbar. A goal at this juncture
may have seen Dublin edge home in a tight finish but, as it was, Tyrone held on to join Dublin at the top of the division, level on points with Kildare. On the hurling side, Limerick prevailed 1-21 to 1-15 against the Dubs when they closed out the game with four unanswered points to cruise home. Dublin finished the game with 14 men after Paul Ryan was straight red-carded in the 51st minute and the writing was on the wall for Anthony Daly’s men not long after.
THE senior hurlers begin their league
The club are running a quiz night
campaign this Sunda y awa y to
on March 29. Please see Lorraine
Crokes at 11am, and the juniors are
O’Connor for details.
home to Wild Geese at 3pm. The minor
Membership is now overdue, and
footballers take on St Sylvester’s at
players will not be allowed to play
11am, and all adult football teams are
or train after March 31 unless paid.
in cup action. Please continue your
Please contact your team mentor
great support of all teams.
for details.
Well done to our minor ladies’
The club lotto was not won. Num-
footballers who played Castleknock
bers drawn were 4, 12, 14 and 24. Next
in their first-ever game last Satur-
week’s jackpot is €3,400.
day.
Entertainment in the club this Sat-
Juvenile poker night is this Friday
urday comes from Full Moon. Bingo
night in the club. €20 entry includes
continues in the club every Wednes-
a free pint.
day with jackpot at €900.
erin go bragh There was no winner of the weekly
involved with running the St Patrick’s
lotto. The numbers drawn were 6, 10,
Day Disco last week. Thanks to all
20 and 25.
that have supported our juvenile
Save the date: The Harlem Shake
disco last Friday. We hope you all
has been changed now to Monday,
enjoyed it. These are what keep the
March 25 at 8pm at Setanta all-
club running from week to week and,
weather. We want everyone down in
without these fundraising events,
club colours or fancy dress; all weird
the club would not exist.
and wonderful items welcome. Please come down and support the club. Thank you to all the mentors and members for all the hard work
The EGB Easter Camp will take place from April 2 to 5; please contact Dave for more details on 086 310 1034.
westmanstown gaels There was just one fixture played
ates and juniors hosting St Brigid’s
last week, with the intermediates
next Sunday morning at Westmans-
keeping up their early season form
town. Both games start at 11am.
with a good win away to Lucan Sars-
The Ladies are training on Mon-
fields in the league, coming out on top
days in Westmanstown at 5.30pm
on a scoreline of 2-8 to 0-6.
with a challenge game on Sunday,
It’s back to the cup competitions next weekend with both intermedi-
March 24; venues and times to be confirmed.
GazetteSPORT all of your blanchardstown sports coverage from page 27-31
depleted dublin downed: Double dose of disappointment for footballers and hurlers P31
march 21, 2013
Ireland on the rise: Ladies reach last eight of international contest P28
Ismael Diallo and Jean Yves Poame, seen here with John McGuinness from Corduff, were part of the Republic of Ireland Under-15 set-up in England last week
Corduff duo’s Ireland call Diallo and Poame line out for Republic side twice in a week in British tour that saw Under-15s face strong Wolves and Brighton sides stephen findlater
sport@gazettegroup.com
CORDUFF duo Ismael Diallo and Jean Yves Poame continued their progression with the Republic of Ireland underage set-up as they both lined out for the Republic of Ireland Under-15 development squad twice in the last week. Diallo started both games at the back while Poame lined out up front in a 2-1 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers and came off the bench in a 1-1 draw against Brighton and Hove Albion. Previously, the pair had been called up to the Republic of Ireland panel to Qatar to play against the prestigious Aspire Academy in
December with Poame among the goals. And they continue to be heavily involved in the side, lining out first against a Wolves side that was selected from a group at least a year their senior, all born in 1997 or 1998. They did it the hard way, though, bouncing back from being 1-0 in the 17th minute, a deficit they endured until the second half. Wolves came close to doubling their lead at the start of the second half when the Irish goalkeeper Corey Chambers was forced into an excellent double save to thwart the Wolves centre forward. Ireland eventually equalised in the 69th minute when Steven Kinsella scored directly from a free-kick on the right hand side of the penalty area - his sweetly struck delivery found
its way right through to the back of the net. And Ireland struck again within five minutes when another excellent delivery, this time from a corner, was headed home by captain Conor Masterson, whose downward header was too powerful for the Wolves defender on the line to prevent from reaching the back of the net. Ireland then saw out the remaining minutes of the match relatively comfortably to secure a well-deserved victory. A day later, they drew 1-1 with Brighton. They began the match brightly and took an early lead, when in the seventh minute, striker Mark Buckley latched onto JJ Lunney’s pass from the edge of the box to slot the ball between the Brighton goalkeeper’s legs from six yards out. Brighton, however, finished the half strong-
ly, and in the 36th minute, Irish goalkeeper Tommy Holland had to make a smart save after a Brighton free-kick had deflected off the Irish wall, reacting quickly to prevent the rebound. But Brighton equalised eight minutes into the second half from four yards out after Tommy Holland had parried the initial shot across his goal. Ireland had their chances to claim the tie and a second successive win with Conor Davis and the influential Steven Kinsella going close late on. Nonetheless, it was another fruitful couple of games for the duo, both originally from the Ivory Coast but who have been part of Corduff’s groundbreaking underage success in recent years.