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Shock as St Mochta’s school plan in limbo Staff, parents dismayed as Department decision slams the brakes on long-expected build
IAN BEGLEY
HALF the pupils and teachers of St Mochta’s National School will have to remain in prefabs for at least another year, following a decision by the
Department of Education. Following years of campaigning, parents and teachers say they were led to believe that their new €10m school’s building would soon begin. However, in a letter sent
recently to the school’s board of management, they found out this would not be the case. Deputy Ruth Coppinger (AAA) said she believes the announcement last year, which stated that
the development would begin in 2016, was linked to the timing of the general election to minimise St Mochta’s becoming a live issue in the Dublin West constituency. Full Story on Page 4
4 BLANCH GAZETTE 8 September 2016
ST MOCHTA’S | DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION SAYS IT HAS EXCEEDED BUDGET FOR NEW SCHOOLS
School is ‘left in limbo’ as new building won’t be built this year IAN BEGLEY PUPILS and teachers of St Mochta’s National School have been left betrayed and disheartened after learning that their much-needed new school building will not be progressing to tender stage this year. Following years of campaigning, parents, teachers and pupils say they were led to believe, by the Department of Education, that the construction of the €10m building would soon begin. However, in a letter sent to the school’s board of management by the Department recently,
they found out this would not be the case. This will mean that approximately half of the school’s pupils and teachers will remain in prefabs for at least another year. In his reply to this letter, Tony Rock, chairperson of the board of management at St Mochtas School expressed his disappointment. “To be informed by the Department that we will now remain in limbo until further notice, with a school population of 890 students, half of whom are in prefabricated building, sharing cramped, unsafe and unfit play spaces and
sports facilities is completely unacceptable to the board of management of our school,” he said. Deputy Ruth Coppinger (AAA) told The Gazette that she believes the announcement was linked to the timing of the general election to minimise St Mochta’s becoming a live issue in the Dublin West constituency where two Ministers, Joan Burton and Leo Varadkar, were candidates. She speculated: “Did Joan Burton spin the school projects announcement in an attempt to save her seat?” On November 17,
2015 Minister Burton announced: “I have spoken with Maria Farrell, St Mochta’s principal, and Tony Rock, chair of the Board, to inform them that St Mochta’s is to be totally rebuilt, with the project to proceed to construction in 2016.” Deputy Coppinger added: “The news that St Mochta’s National School’s essential works won’t go to tender until 2017 - if even that begs the question how many other pre-election announcements on school building projects are not going to progress?
“This latest delay is intolerable. I call on parents and school management to come together and call a public meeting where all political representatives in Dublin West are called to account and where they can directly increase the pressure on the politicians and the Department, and to again make this a major local issue.” Responding to Coppinger’s criticism, Deputy Joan Burton told The Gazette that she “totally refutes” her accusations. “I just say that I was extremely shocked and disappointed to see the
Cheque it out
letter from the Department of Education. I support all of the different school communities in Dublin West in their building and refurbishment projects. “We have had a huge number of new schools built and refurbished during my time as a Minister.” Leo Varadkar (FG) also said he was very unhappy about the delay of this project. “I have already spoken to the Minister for Education Richard Bruton and the Minister for Public Expenditure, Paschal Donohoe about it.
“There are a number of reasons for the delay but the main one is that the Department of Education has exceeded its budget for new schools and has had to pause about a dozen school building projects around the country. “St Mochta’s is one of these. It’s not something that is insurmountable and could be addressed in the Budget in six weeks’ time by increasing the budget for the Department of Education. “I am working on that timeframe. I can totally understand parents and teachers anger,” he said.
Staff of Woodies in Blanchardstown gathered in-store to present a cheque of total funds raised in-store as part of Woodie’s Heroes Campaign for Ireland’s major children’s charities.
8 September 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 5
6 BLANCH GAZETTE 8 September 2016
GazetteGALLERY
Isabelle Lynch and Alva Cahill
| FINGAL VINTAGE HARVEST FESTIVAL
Tadhg and Aine racing
Sophie, Cliona, Alva, Kyle, Kevin and Amy. Pictures: ALISON O’HANLON
A fun day out for all the family F
Alfie, Evan, DJ, Finn and Tom
Mickaela O’Connor with her sister
Michael John
Laura
Keenan
Tom Early
INGAL Vintage Harvest Festival was a fun day out for all the family with vintage vehicles on display, threshing of the oats, soap box derby, a scarecrow competition, food and craft stalls and much much more. The event was held at Skerries Mills.
Sean Hand, with sisters Aimee and Ciara
David Murtagh with daughter Rachel
8 September 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 7
8 BLANCH GAZETTE 8 September 2016
GOT A STORY? Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 and SELECT OPTION 2 email news@dublingazette.com
Benefits ILLNESS | FUNDING RESEARCH FOR A TREATMENT of being physically active
AN information day will be held at Connolly Hospital in Blanchardstown on September 8 to highlight the importance of “Adding Life To Years” by remaining physically active throughout life. Information stands will be located within the main hospital atrium on the ground floor of the hospital, where physiotherapists will be available to provide advice and information to members of the public on the benefits of being physically active, how to manage chronic diseases and how to “Add Life to Years”.
Challenge launched to help save Dylan IAN BEGLEY
THE good people of Dublin are being encouraged to pie themselves in the face to help raise money for a three-year-old local boy with a devastating illness. Dylan Finglas from Tyrrelstown was diagnosed with an ultrarare, fatal condition called Multiple Sulfatase Deficiency (MSD). Without something to stop this illness, most children don’t get to see
their 10th birthday. In the next few years D y l a n w i l l d e ve l o p breathing difficulties, lose his sight, his hearing, the ability to walk, to swallow and his organ functions will deteriorate and eventually fail. Scientists at the Telethon Institute of Genetics and Medicine in Napoli, Italy have successfully cured the disease in lab tests. The next step is to fund research to develop this treatment for humans.
Alan and his wife Michelle Finglas have set up SavingDylan. com which aims to accelerate research and development of MSD treatment for humans and increase awareness of this devastating disease. Since the start of their campaign last year, they have raised well over €500,000 and are hopeful that they will reach their €2m target. In the latest series of fundraising initiatives, Kiera Grafton, a neigh-
Free talk on your consumer rights A FREE talk on consumer rights will take place in the Europe Direct Information Centre at Blanchardstown Library on Wednesday, September 14. Starting at 7pm, the talk will give an overview of how European Consumer Centre Ireland can help you with cross-border consumer problems, your EU rights when buying goods and services, shopping online rights and tips, and other redress options such as Alternative Dispute Resolution and the new Online Dispute Resolution platform. T hos e wis hing to attend will need to book their place by phoning 01 8905563 or emailing europedirect@fingal.ie.
Dylan Finglas
bour and good friends of the Finglas family, started the Cream Pie Challenge with the hopes that it will become a viral sensation. Similar to the Ice Bucket Challenge, participants are asked to record a video of themselves getting pied in the face and then to nominate three of their friends to do the same. Before or after taking part you are asked to make a donation to the Saving Dylan Campaign. Speaking to The Gazette, Grafton said: “Myself and a friend came up with the idea about three weeks ago and have already raised about €3,000 for Dylan. “I know how much of a success the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge was so we wanted to do something along the same lines in the hopes it would gain a lot of traction online. “The Saving Dylan campaign means so much to his family and we are urging everyone to get on board and donate.” To make a donation and to find out more about the Saving Dylan campaign visit w w w. savingdylan.com or see the Cream Pie Challenge Facebook page. You can also donate €4 via text by sending “Dylan” to 50300.
8 September 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 9
MUSIC | EVEN SIMON SMILES AS KINGSWOOD WOMAN WOWS JUDGES AT X FACTOR AUDITION
Jantastic! SYLVIA POWNALL
DUBLINER Janet Grogan is bidding for second time lucky on The X Factor after she stole the show at the Dublin auditions. The 28-year-old from Kingswood was cruelly ditched by Simon Cowell at the six chairs stage two years ago. But on Saturday, TV3 viewers saw her brave return pay off as she blew the panel away, singing Zane’s Pillowtalk. Eagle-eyed viewers will have seen our front page announcing “Louis has the X Factor” as it rolled off the presses (right). There was a distinctly Irish air to Saturday’s show – which opened with Dermot O’Leary introducing the Dublin auditions at Croke Park. Tallaght Leisure Centre, where Janet works as a lifeguard,
posted a good luck message to the talented brunette shortly before the show aired. It said: “Janet makes her first appearance & hopefully not the last one on this weekend’s show. Go Janet Grogan!!!!” Simon Cowell (above) – who admitted on Twitter that he’d made a mistake axing Janet the first time round – said he’d been “praying” ever since that she would come back. Janet revealed: “Once I
read what Simon had said after I lost out on a place in the final, I always intended on going back. “It was just a matter of when I was ready, and I felt ready this time. I think the knowledge I gained the first time was invaluable.” Since appearing on the show the first time, Janet has been busy improving her voice. She was the only Irish woman to feature on Saturday’s show, with Simon telling her it was the best audition he’d heard all day.
To see all the action from X-Factor at Croke Park turn to Pages 10/11
10 GAZETTE 8 September 2016
CULTURE | THE GAZETTE HAD A SPECIAL ROLE TO PLAY IN WELCOMING THE X FACTOR BACK TO
Who’s got the Factor?
WE DO! Screengrab: TV3 Player
A giant Louis face filled the side of a bus
Dermot’s got the moves all right
Special X Factor Gazettes
X Factor and Gazette fans Lisa Kenny and Jenny Ashe. Pictures: Alison O’Hanlon
Fans Anna O’Hanlon and Katie
roll through the printing presses, ready to help spread the word
Nice to see you too, Simon
8 September 2016 GAZETTE 11
DUBLIN FOR AUDITIONS
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Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email news@dublingazette.com
TELL US ABOUT YOUR LOCAL EVENT, CELEBRATION OR FUNCTION!
KING LOUIS ON HIS ROLE IN THE SHOW IAN BEGLEY
WHEN The X Factor bus came rolling into Dublin, the programme makers knew they needed something big, local, popular and important to help them get their message out – and The Gazette was happy to help! That’s why when Simon, Nicole, Louise and Sharon arrived at Croke Park, their X Factor fans were already in the mood for some unforgettable sights and sounds, with their special commemorative Gazettes, hot from the presses (see left) helping to set the mood – and giving them Dublin’s best read. Once the judges had arrived, marking the end of a six-year departure from Dublin, the auditions at Croker saw the good, the bad, and the memorable from a wide range of eager performers wanting to become the next big thing. Louis got a very welcome return to the show, arriving in style on an open-top bus with his face on it – which Simon couldn’t resist having a jab at it. One of the contestants winning the judge’s approval was Janet Grogan from Kingswood, Tallaght – a familiar face for Cowell (see Page 3). The 28-year-old made it to his Six Chairs two years ago, but he eventually swapped her for another singer, which he later regretted. I met up with Louis (top) at TV3’s autumn season launch recently to ask what it’s like being back on the panel, and if he genuinely believes that Ireland has the potential to claim victory in this year’s competition.
‘I’m having much more fun’ He said: “I absolutely love being back – it’s business as usual, but this time around I’m having much more fun and, with Simon being on the panel along with Sharon, it’s a dream come true. Simon is probably my favourite, because I’ve known him for so long, but to be honest I get along really well with everyone. “I can remember about 10 people in the Irish auditions who did well, but I feel the ones we chose really have potential.” But do you really think that an Irish person could win? “It’s possible, but it’s going to be tough. I’d obviously love it to happen, but we’ll just have to wait and see.” Louis added that out of all the countries he’s travelled to, he loves being based in Dublin the most. However, the one thing that really annoys him about this country is Irish radio. “Dublin is such a great city to live in, but you only really appreciate it once you go abroad, even for a short space of time. The biggest problem I have with Ireland is that they don’t play enough Irish radio. “We could play so many new Irish acts on our airways, but instead they just play the same type of music over and over again. This is why it’s so hard for young people here to break into the music industry.”
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12 GAZETTE 8 September 2016
DUBLINBUSINESS
Teaming up for better opportunities QUALITY and Qualifications Ireland (QQI), the state agency responsible for maintaining the ten level National Framework of Qualifications, is delighted to announce it has joined forces with Transition Year Ireland on a three-year partnership. Through this partnership, QQI will get involved with the
upcoming TY Expo 2016, which is taking place on September 12 and 13 at the Punchestown Racecourse Event Centre, where they will actively engage with attendees through speaker opportunities and branding at the event. The TY Expo is an annual event that focuses on TY students and places them, as well
as their teachers and parents, face-to-face with the people behind the many opportunities available to them throughout the year. Pictured at the announcement is Dr Padraig Walsh, chief executive, QQI (left) with Elle Loughran, student and Edwin Landzaad, CEO, Transition Year Ireland. Picture: Robbie Reynolds
Green Innovator receives award UCD has presented professor Kevin O’Connor, a leading green technologies researcher and innovator, with the NovaUCD 2016 Innovation Award. Professor O’Connor’s interests include research into the development of biodegradable polymers; methods of improving the recycling of plastic and other materials i.e. upcycling; the transformation of waste products and industrial side streams into value added products. His expertise includes areas such as the bioeconomy, environmental technology, bioprocessing, biocatalysis, and protein engineering.
The award was presented to professor O’Connor, a professor at the UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science and a principal investigator at the UCD Earth Institute, by UCD president, professor Andrew J Deeks, during an event held at NovaUCD, the centre for New Ventures and Entrepreneurs. Speaking at the event the UCD president said: “I am delighted to present this to Professor O’Connor in recognition of the quality and impact of his peer-reviewed research, his technological developments for the production of bio-based products as well as his
Professor Kevin O’Connor with his award
industrial collaboration and successes in the commercialisation of the intellectual property arising from his research at the University.” On receiving the award Professor O’Connor said: “I am honoured to receive this prestigious
award. “It recognises the huge effort, commitment and intellect of the current and past researchers and students in my research lab in UCD and in Bioplastech to develop and commercialise our technologies.”
8 September 2016 GAZETTE 13
ASDFSDAF P27 GAMING P25
FEATURE P22
DUBLINLIFE Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week
GAZETTE
A DAY IN THE LIFE P14
DARLING, SUPER SID IS FULL OF POTENTIAL
The city’s many arches and bridges are always there to link and usher you along to a new shopping, cultural or entertaining experience. Photos: Shane Dillon
RETAIL: THERE’S MUCH MORE TO THE CITY THAN ‘JUST’ THE CENTRE – SO EXPLORE!
Dublin delights for shoppers RIGHTLY or wrongly, Dubliners are often accused of being insular by their country cousins, and it’s probably fair to say that many Dubs don’t know much of the capital beyond their own neck of the woods. With budgets tight and the kids back at school, if you’re looking for a quick break from it all (but don’t have the time of money to venture far afield), why not look at some of the fantastic attractions on your own doorstep? VisitDublin.com – the official tourist information website for the capital – recently rolled out a new video which highlights just some of the great destinations and experiences the capital has to offer (and you can check it out on
our website or Facebook page). So, if you’re looking to get away from it all without going far – and, more importantly, you believe in supporting local businesses – Visit Dublin has given us some great pointers that highlight how lucky we are to have such a diverse range of towns and villages right in our own backyard, with all the attractions and businesses that they offer Dubs, culchies and tourists alike ...
Savour shopping in Dublin Dublin city and its coastal villages are not just vibrant, bustling and eclectic destinations for tourism, outdoor adventure, great food, culture and
unique experiences, but have helped make the city become known as a real shopping mecca. Today, Dublin offers an abundance of choice for those shopping lovers who want to seek out independent stores, Irish crafts, family-friendly markets and venerable shops that have stood the test of time. Whether it’s the work of an emerging Irish artist, a rare cheese or exquisite tailoring you’re after, there’s no shortage of places across the city and county to take your fancy, as the following categories illustrate ...
Womenswear Drury Street, in the heart of Dublin’s
“creative quarter”, is a mecca for fashionistas seeking brands not common on the high street. Both Om Diva and Costume (the latter on the corner at Castle Market) carry Irish and international brands to turn heads. Just around the corner, at Exchequer Street, there’s a distinctly retro feel to Carousel, where you can buy vintagestyle dresses for reasonable prices. Malahide has several inviting boutiques, with Neola and Sans Souci among them. For more about the wonderful range of shopping and activities found across Dublin, see P23
OUR Dog of the Week looking for her #SpecialSomeone* is stunning Sid, a oneyear-old male Rottweiler cross. He has just completed his muzzle training and is ready and waiting to go to his forever home. He is a big, bouncy boy and loves training games and playing with his doggie pals. Sid will do almost anything for treats, but he’s not too keen on sharing with fellow canines or children, so he would like an adult-only home. If you can be Sid’s #SpecialSomeone*, then please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off Exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website, www.dogstrust. ie. You can also find them on Facebook, at www.facebook.com/ dogstrustirelandonline, or on Twitter @ DogsTrust_IE. *As part of their 10th birthday celebrations, MAXI ZOO IRELAND will be championing 10 of our dogs for the next 10 weeks in some of their stores, to help us try and find their #SpecialSomeone.
GAZETTE
14 GAZETTE 8 September 2016
DUBLINLIFE
A DAY IN THE LIFE: MRS BROWN’S BOYS STAR RORY COWAN NEVER ASPIRED TO BE AN ACTOR
Rory went from smash hits to Mrs with no training IAN BEGLEY
MRS Brow n’s Boys’ e x t r ove r t s t a r R o r y Cowan has revealed that he only inherited the role of Agnes’s gay son after the man who was due to play him left acting — to become a train driver. Speaking to The Gazette at the launch of TV3’s new-look autumn schedule, Rory said he never aspired to be an actor and fell into the job of playing flamboyant character Rory. He explained: “I honestly never had any ambition to become an actor even though I was closely associated with the industry. “I used to work as a sales and marketing manager for EMI and rubbed elbows with the likes of David Bowie, Paul McCartney, Tina
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‘I used to work as a sales and marketing manager for EMI and rubbed elbows with the likes of David Bowie, Paul McCartney, Tina Turner and Diana Ross.’
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Turner and Diana Ross. “I was also involved in the marketing for Mrs Brown’s Boys and about ten years ago it was revealed that the former actor who played Rory had trouble getting a mortgage for a home because he was an actor. “He decided to leave acting to become a train driver – the only problem was they opened in Liverpool the next morning for a threeweek theatre show. “Brendan asked me to fill in for him because I was so closely associ-
ated with the show and he thought I’d suit the character perfectly. “I had only one day to learn all of the lines and decided to bleach my hair blonde and wear really bright clothes to stand out as much as I could. “That was the only time I ever got nervous on stage. After that I fell in love with the role.” Rory added that he isn’t surprised the hit TV show was voted the best British sitcom of the century. Viewers in the UK recently voted the series as the best
show of the millennium in an online poll for the Radio Times, where it beat off critically acclaimed shows such as The Office (2001), The Thick of It (2005) and Peep Show (2003). Rory says he’s over the moon with the result, but he wasn’t exactly knocked for six. He added: “The success of both the sitcom and live show is really staggering, especially in the UK. “We have between eight to ten thousand people attending our theatre shows each night and in the big cities like Liverpool and in London we would perform for about 60,000 people in a week. “So when we were voted as the best sitcom of the century it really didn’t come as much of a surprise.”
FEATURE
8 September 2016 GAZETTE 15
GAZETTE
DIARY
Drumming home a charity’s mission JONATHAN Irwin, chief executive of The Jack & Jill Foundation, was on hand at Argillan Castle to help drum up awareness of the charity’s annual initiative, Up the Hill for Jack and Jill. At the castle, Irwin was joined by 70 friends and supporters to launch the campaign, including Sandra Salmon, whose daughter, Hannah, is supported by Jack & Jill. She said: “This is an amazing charity – they have been our lifeline for the past year and a half, supporting us with home nursing care for Hannah and all sorts of practical support. We would well and truly be lost without them. “Every donation is
greatly appreciated and the magic number is €16, as this is the cost of a nursing hour.” Running all this month, the fundraising initiative invites people to walk or run a hill, with registration now open at www. jackandjill.ie, priced €16.
JUDGE WORD WAR’S DUELLING DEBATERS WORD WAR judges are needed in Dublin for the intellectual equivalent of The X Factor – a national debating contest run by Concern Worldwide. I r e l a n d ’s l a r g e s t humanitarian aid agency is recruiting volunteers to join their panel of adjudicators for Concern Debates, the country’s biggest secondary
schools debating contest. In the All-Ireland competition, teenage debating teams go head-to-head on highly relevant and topical arguments. Each year, around 150 schools take part in the war of words, with the final held in The Helix. The winning team is taken to one of Concern’s projects overseas, such as drought-hit Malawi, where last year’s winners – Cross and Passion College from Ballycastle, Co Antrim – witnessed firsthand the charity’s lifechanging work. Anyone who wants to volunteer and join Concern’s panel of debates judges is asked to contact Concern’s Schools and Youth Programme
Administrator, Geraldine Carroll, at 01 417 7733, or by emailing debates@ concern.net.
TEAM CHALLENGE ROAD RUN RETURNS THE Twilight Team Challenge 5k Road Run returns to Sandyford Business District this coming September 29. Last year, almost 1,000 people took part with applications for this year’s run expected to exceed this number significantly. People can take part individually or as part of a team and the event offers an opportunity for team building and a lighthearted rivalry between staff from offices in the area. Gerard O’Farrell,
Lisa Maguire with Jonathan Irwin, chief executive, The Jack & Jill Foundation; Sandra Salmon and Fran Cochrane with their daughter, Hannah, who the Foundation supports. Picture: Colm Mahady/Fennell Photography
managing director of the Spirit Motor Group, event sponsors, said: “We are delighted to see this event return for its second year. The enquiries are already coming in, so we
are expecting a significant turn-out of individuals and teams for this year’s challenge. “We are supporting the Ross Nugent Foundation for this event, although
entrants can also fundraise for their own chosen charity.” Registration is open at www.twilightteamchallenge.com, and the entry fee is €25.
8 September 2016 GAZETTE 17
DUBLINLIFE
GAZETTE
GAZETTE
16 GAZETTE 8 September 2016
BACK TO
Two-year-old Cora McIlhatton and best pal Leah Pownall, 3, can’t wait for their first day at Haven preschool in Clondalkin
Goodbye summer... hello learning IT WAS Back to School week for thousands of lit-
galleries, to run in our print editions throughout
tle Dubliners this week – and it’s a time of mixed
September.
emotions for one and all, with as many tears shed
We have some wonderful prizes to give away -
by mammies and daddies are there were by their
including a €150 gift card for Life Style Sports, €50
little students.
vouchers for M&S, Penneys and Dealz, a hamper
The response to our Back to School competition
from Flying Tiger, every kid’s favourite variety
has been magnificent, with hundreds of read-
store, AND a €100 voucher for the Base – Ireland’s
Audrey Buttner sent in this great pic of her three children. She
ers sending in their pix – so much so that we’ve
Number 1 entertainment centre.
said they had a great summer and were delighted to be heading
Sophie and Lucy Osbourne , Presentation
back to school...”or at least one of them was”!
Girls School, Maynooth
decided to extend it by another week. So keep an eye out for your little ones in our Back to School
And don’t be stuck folks - get your last minute Back to School essentials from Life Style sports.
Little Leo Byrne from Baldoyle is ready for anything school life
Little Bella wishes her big brother Tadgh
throws at him
good luck as he heads off to start Second
Roisin Fitzpatrick,
Rosa McManus, 9,
Senior Infants,
heading off to start third
Presentation Primary
class in Tyrrelstown
School Teranure
ETNS
Class at the Divine Word, Rathfarnham Little Rani Smith was really
school! Kate’s as proud as punch that her little sister Lucy is
excited to be going into
Cian Fitzpatrick, Jamie Timoney, AJ Corish, Kate Melady
Junior Infants at Scoil
and Ella Burns are all smiles at St Marnock’s NS
Mhuire in Lucan
These Rathfarnham brothers are both starting big school, with Evan, 12, going into First Year at Colaiste Eanna and fiveyear-old Ryan starting Junior Infants at
Maya and Jessica Wilson are ready to start their school year
Scoil Naomh Padraig
at St Vincent de Paul Infants School Griffith Ave
Pals Mia Carroll, Lara Nola and Belle n O’Sulliva n froim S Helen’s N t S, Portm arnock
joining her in St Sylvester’s NS, Malahide
GAZETTE
18 GAZETTE 8 September 2016
DUBLINLIFE
It’s the great beauty bake off
RUSH lady Anna Maguire won the Tipperary Crystal Rose of the Curragh competition this year in a dress of her own design. Anna is a professional dressmaker at Ana Mac Boutique in north County Dublin, and the winning dress was originally designed for this year’s Dublin Rose.
EMMA NOLAN Style Editor
WITH everyone’s favourite baking programme dominating our TV screens, it only seems fair that we, in the world of beauty, get to bake too! This technique of making your foundation look flawless and creaseless has been an industry secret among make-up artists and drag queens for years, and involves layering concealers and powders and leaving them to set. NYX Cosmetics have two suitable products for ‘baking’ that face ... 1. Begin with a hydrating eye cream to prepare the eyes for the make-up. 2. Thickly apply NYX Concealer wand (above; RRP €6.99) under your eye, all the way from the apples of your cheeks towards your temples. Blend it out. 3. Follow up the concealer with ... more concealer! Apply NYX Concealer wand lightly on top of the first layer. 4. Now it’s time to set the concealer. Use the NYX Stay Matte Not Flat powder foundation (right; RRP €10.99) and lightly tap it onto the eye area. 5. To ‘bake’ this make-up, use either a damp make-up sponge or a brush and apply a very generous amount of powder below your eyes (don’t worry if it looks a bit extreme at this stage). 6. Leave the powder to set on the face for 5-10 minutes. 7. With a fluffy brush, lightly dust off the powder and enjoy your flawless make-up!
ASOS €37.33
Dublin stylists hoping to be a cut above at Wella’s top UK and Ireland contest EMMA NOLAN
EIGHT Dublin hairdressers have been recognised as Ireland’s top professional hair stylists by Wella. Sinead Berrigan, Lisa Roe, Shauna Forman, Nicole De’Torre and Nadine Walshe from House of Colour; Darren Lacken and Nikita Purdey from Crowe Street Collective in Temple Bar; Alex Reid from Keville Salon on South Anne Street, and Leanne O’Gorman from Foundation in Dublin 8 reached the
UK and Ireland Final of the Wella Professionals TrendVision Award 2016, to be held in London. Created to discover and acknowledge the industry’s most skilled hair stylists and colourists, the competition focuses on all aspects of hair styling and colouring, and the Irish heat is judged by some of the UK’s leading hair icons, including Rudi Rizzo from Sanrizz and Edward Darley from Sassoon Academy. This year, the trend movements or theme of the competition are Molten Ecaile (a multi-
ASOS €37.33
ASOS €42.67
tonal colouring technique) and Bronde Luxe (a mixture of brown and blonde shades), with entrants asked to interpret one trend with their own style. Alex Reid from Keville Salon, who competed in the Color Vision category, said she has always had a passion for hair. She said: “I’m so proud to
have reached the final of such a prestigious competition. To be taking part and competing against the best hairdressers in the country is a huge honour.” The hairdressers will spend the next few weeks preparing for the Wella Professionals Trend Vision Award UK and Ireland Final in October.
8 September 2016 GAZETTE 19
Beauty of the pyjama blouse
GAZETTE
STYLE
THE
Penneys €11
EMMA NOLAN
THE shirt of the season has arrived and laid-back luxe is on the agenda. Pyjama blouses are simply, well, pyjama blouses, but we now have permission to wear them outdoors. A good silk blouse will never go out of style, and this take on the trend offers a more relaxed and obtainable approach to adorning oneself in silk every day. Penneys’ pyjama blouses are some of the nicest garments to come out of Penneys in a while, and at €11, they’re a steal. Other high street offerings are good, but Penneys wins this time. Take to ASOS for some more interesting, albeit expensive, colour and shape combinations. This sort of casual chic lends itself well to a “nonchalantly put together” vibe. The blouse is easy to throw on and is best paired with high-waisted pants.
New Look €TBC
Penneys €11
New Look €TBC
Penneys €11
New Look €TBC Missguided €33.25
GAZETTE
20 GAZETTE 8 September 2016
DUBLINLIFE
A NEW ERA: IRELAND’S FIRST LUXURY SLEEPER TRAIN FINALLY LAUNCHED IN DUBLIN
Your carriage awaits: A journey on Ireland’s first luxury sleeper train doesn’t come cheap - a two-day trip will set you back a whopping €3,160
A grand day for a train trip
IAN BEGLEY
CHOO! CHOO! Ireland’s first luxury sleeper train has finally launched in Dublin with a six-day trip costing as little as €7,700. Yes, you read that right: €7,700. The Belmond Grand Hibernian was launched last week and includes 10 carriages, 20 en-suite cabins, two dining cars and an observation car, all refurbished by specialist outfitters. Two-day trips cost €3,160, four days cost €5,420 and six days cost €7,722. On board the passengers will have double or twin cabins with goose feather and Irish-made down bedding. It’s inaugural journey from Heuston Station took 40 guests on a six-night Grand Tour of Ireland. Marking a new era in luxury rail travel, Belmond Grand Hibernian is the first luxury sleeper train to travel throughout the Island of Ireland. The train’s contemporary interiors are elegant yet relaxed, evoking the sense of travelling in an Irish country house with genuine and warm service provided by the train’s crew. Throughout the inaugural sixnight itinerary, covering 2,217 kilometres, guests will first travel from
Dublin to Cork where they will visit the Jameson’s Distillery, followed by a private visit of Blarney Castle to kiss the Blarney Stone before the grounds are open to the public. Belmond Grand Hibernian then heads west to Killarney and its National Park for a boat tour of the spectacular Lough Leane. As the train heads north, a walking tour of the creative city of Galway is followed by a full day visit to Ashford Castle for a lunch and walk around the property’s stunning grounds. The elegant, midnight blue carriages then travel to Northern Ireland and Belfast for a visit of the award-winning Titanic Experience. The train then returns south to the Viking port of Waterford for a visit to the House of Waterford and Curraghmore House, home to the Waterford family. The journey then ends in Dublin. Head chef Alan Woods has created mouth-watering dishes showcasing the best of Irish produce with a contemporary twist. On the menu are dishes such as seafood chowder, Roast Killarney Venison, Donegal Turf Smoked Salmon and Crab Cannon, Skeaghanore Duck Leg Confit and Warm Kildare Wild
Elderberry and Plum Compote. All food is regionally sourced from local producers. Guests can expect to enjoy home-baked soda bread and scones; served with salty butter and homemade jams and fresh cream. Each carriage is named after an Irish county with interiors reflecting the local flora and fauna and colours inspired by the county’s tartan. Irish creative flair is also reflected in the staff uniforms, designed in Ireland, using materials such as Donegal tweed. Kildare, the Observation Car and social hub of the train has the
charm of a local Irish tavern, with live entertainment each evening and a varied choice of Irish gin and whiskies for guests to enjoy after dinner is served in the elegant and light-filled dining cars Wexford and Sligo. The sleeper cars, including Waterford, Leitrim and Kerry, feature 20 luxury en-suite cabins including four double cabins with spacious storage and elegant details such as the Galway crystal jewellery stands and Irish goose feather and down pillows and duvets, made in Westport. Commenting on the launch, JP Kavanagh says: “As a proud Irishman, I am delighted to be part of
the launch of this exciting new train showcasing authentic Irish hospitality, scenery, produce and culture.” Belmond Grand Hibernian offers two, four and six-night itineraries for up to 40 guests running from now until the end of October. Guests will be immersed in the rich Irish culture, including history, art and music, or choose to play a round of golf at famous courses along the way. In 2017, the season will run from 25 April to 14 October. For more information or to make a reservation for 2016 or 2017 - visit Belmond.com/grandhibernian
8 September 2016 GAZETTE 21
GAZETTE
TRAVEL
Mexico: Bursting with culture and history IAN BEGLEY
COMBINE relaxation with culture and history on an incredible 13-night trip to Mexico. Your journey will bring you through the bustling metropolis of Mexico City to the quaint streets of Merida, and from the ancient Aztec and Mayan empires to the white sandy beaches of Cancun. You will begin your holiday with a half day tour of Mexico City, accompanied by your expert local guide. A metropolis originally built by the Aztecs, today Mexico City is the cultural epicentre of Mexico and one of the fastest growing cities in the world. Here, you will visit national landmarks such as the National Palace, the Diego Rivera murals and the Anthropology Museum. Next, explore Teotih-
uacan, the 2000-year-old city that is known as The Birthplace of the Gods. T his ancient settlement of the Aztecs was originally built between 100BC and 250AD, and is home to the oldest Mesoamerican pyramids on the continent. En route, you will enjoy a stop at the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, one of the most important pilgrimage sites of Catholicism and one of Mexico City’s most spectacular buildings. You will also enjoy a full day e xc u r-
sion to the historical and cultural city of Oaxaca. Stop off at the ancient Mayan city of Uxmal and enjoy a city tour of Merida on the way. A UNESCO World Heritage S i t e , Uxmal showcases
buildings like the Governor’s Palace, the Nunnery Quadrangle, and the Pyramid of the Magician. Then, journey on to Campeche, stopping for a visit to the archaeological Mayan region of Palenque. Containing some of the finest sculpture and architecture that the Mayans have produced, Palenque will take your breath away. Discover Mexico’s most popular tourist attraction which is also believed to be one of the oldest settlements on earth, Chichen Itza, an ancient Mayan settlement which boasts the Temple of a Thousand Warriors, the
Great Ball Court and the Castillo Temple. Ik Kil Cenote is a world famous lagoon, where you will descend a carved staircase in the rock face to reach the bright blue water. Open for swimming, the pool is 26m deep and a popular diving spot. Spend your final two days relaxing and enjoying Cancun at your own pace. Ask your guide for activity recommendations, or spend time chilling out by the hotel pool. Cancun is most famous for its beautiful beaches and the crystal clear water for swimming and snorkelling. Prices star t from €2,799pp including return flights from Dublin, internal flight within Mexico, transfers, taxes & charges, 13 nights’ B&B/half-board hotel accommodation and excursions, with flight departing April 27, 2017.
GAZETTE
22 GAZETTE 8 September 2016
DUBLINLIFE
FEATURE
Squirm in your seat for an orchestra of oddities TRAVEL back to a time when gentlemen wore top hats, ladies wore corsets and mobile phones were steam powered – a time when the Freak Show dominated in all its odd and shocking glory. Squirm in your seats as our Orchestra of Oddities thrill, shock and entertain in equal measure. Bleedin’ Deadly - Bram Stoker Festival’s flagship evening event (strictly over 18’s) - will run for four nights only in the iconic Pillar Room, Rotunda Hospital: October 28 to 31. Hosted by The Space Cowboy – extreme performance artist and 44 time world record holder – the Bleedin’ Deadly line-up includes the world’s most pierced woman Elaine Davidson, Coney Island’s side show impresario Donny Vomit, snake charmer and burlesque reptile queen Kitty LeRoux and local bizarrio Grim Squeaker. See Australia’s internationally renowned sword swallow The Space Cowboy perform some of his death defying stunts including ingesting a 2000v neon lightbulb, catching a flaming arrow while blindfolded and his unmissable weight lifting eyelids. T he human pincushion “Elaine Davidson” has adorned her
body with over 9,000 piercings which weigh in excess of 3kgs. This Brazilian-born former nurse not only is the world record holder for body piercing, but has now achieved a new Guinness Record for The person holding the piercing record for the longest time (since 2000). With over 192 piercings on her facial area alone, Elaine says: “People often just want to look at me or touch me - some even want to kiss me”! Meet Coney Island’s freakshow frontman Donny Vomit who has made a living by hammering nails into his skull. His tattoo “A hard way to make an easy living” pays homage to the long tradition of Human Blockhead at Coney Island which was created in 1930. Also an escapologist, his performance will feature some heavy hardware - chainsaws, a strait-
jacket, a mouse trap and a bed of nails! Introducing Ireland’s sizzling sideshow couple - burlesque snake charmer Miss Kitty Le Roux and local bizarrio Grim Squeaker. The striking green haired belle Kitty Le Roux is known as the Reptile Queen with her menagerie of 12 exotic reptilian beauties - seven snakes, three lizards, one gecko and one tortoise. Beautiful, deadly and cold blooded, this cabaret snake charmer extraordinaire is not to be missed. Witness Kitty’s boyfriend, Ireland’s premier sideshow performer Grim Squeaker, as eats broken glass and sharpened razor blades and is smashed with sledgehammers as he lays upon a bed of nails. Tickets to Bleedin Deadly, Ireland’s Freakiest Halloween Event, as part of Bram Stoker Festival are from €20. It is an over 18 years event. Tickets available at www.bramstokerfestival.com / Booking Tel: 01 881 9613
Looking for a freakishly good time? We have a pair of tickets to give away to Bleedin’ Deadly – just send us your scariest story to be in with a chance of winning!
8 September 2016 GAZETTE 23
GAZETTE
SHOPPING RETAIL: A LOOK AT SHOPPING DIVERSITY
Discover for yourself why Dublin has so much to offer Continued from Page 13
Menswear Dublin men keen to get their hands on designer clothes a little out of the ordinary are spoiled for choice at Nowhere on Aungier Street. Those with a penchant for hard-to-get Scandinavian brands should head to Indigo & Cloth on East Essex Street, Temple Bar – it’s got a branch of the popular Clement & Pekoe cafe in-store for tea and coffee. And, also in Temple Bar, in West Essex Street, Tamp and Stitch also offers cool clobber and excellent coffee. Children Babies and toddlers can be kitted out with the best at JoJo Maman Bebe on Wicklow Street, which also boasts an impressive selection of maternity wear, while Pearl, on South King Street, close to the Gaiety Theatre, offers style with a difference for preschool kids and those who are a little older. Irish Design Some of what’s great about Irish craft and design can be found at Powerscourt Townhouse
Centre on South William Street. There, talented Dubliner Chupi Sweetman’s stunning range of delicate gold jewellery can be checked out in Chupi. Further choice at Powerscourt comes courtesy of Article. Industr y carries a wide selection of Irish and European goods at its Drury Street store, and there’s a fine cafe there too, specialising in exceptional salads.
Artisan Food Fallon & Byrne on Exchequer Street offers some of the most sumptuous food in the city, and its butcher is justly famed for its game and rare cuts of beef. If it’s cheese you’re after, there’s nowhere better than Sheridan’s on South Anne Street – they’ve an unrivalled selection of Irish and international offerings. Dublin’s coastal villages are well served with high-end food emporia, such as Caviston’s at Glasthule Road, Glasthule, celebrated for its stunning fish selection. Back in town, and Liston’s, on Camden Street, sources a wide range of high-quality Irish and international food prod-
ucts, and it’s a great place to stop for delicious fresh breads, cheese and cold meats.
Books Dublin has a huge selection of bookshops and the country’s largest – Chapters on Parnell Street – has a massive second-hand section. The Gutter Bookshop, West Essex Street, Temple Bar, has carved out a niche as an exemplary independent bookstore, with several writers’ events held here. There’s a second Gutter Bookshop in Dalkey, on Railway Road – a place that’s especially busy during the popular Zurich Dalkey Book Festival – and the denizens of Ranelagh swear by their local haunt, The Company of Books. Named after the Yeats poem, and in honour of its winding staircase, The Winding Stair Bookshop is one of the oldest surviving independent bookshops in Dublin, and its upstairs restaurant is also a favourite meeting place for foodies looking for relaxed dining. Music The independently owned Tower Records
Whether browsing through some of the very latest on-trend styles or exploring establishments with a rich, long-standing heritage, Dublin offers plenty of choice to suit all tastes, needs and budgets
on Dawson Street boasts one of Ireland’s largest selection of vinyl. If it’s a second-hand bargain you’re looking for, both Spindizzy in the Victorian George’s Street Arcade and the Secret Bookshop and Record Store on Wicklow Street are must-visits on your itinerary. RAGE, in the short but hugely vibrant Fade Street, caters for both gamers and lovers of vinyl.
Markets The number and quality of food and crafts markets in Dublin has mushroomed rapidly in the past decade. The Temple Bar Market in Meeting
House Square offers a bustling experience on Saturday mornings, while the Dun Laoghaire Sunday Market in The People’s Park is the perfect place to grab an alfresco bite. It’s especially lovely on sunny summer days when the views take in Dublin Bay and Howth Head. Be sure to check out some of the much-loved flea markets in the city. Dublin Flea Market – a fantastic indoor market safe from the on/off Irish summer – takes place on the last Sunday of every month in The Co-op on Newmarket square. The Grand Social at Lower Liffey Street hosts the weekly Ha’Penny
Flea Market every Saturday from noon til 6pm. Elsewhere, the food market at Farmleigh in the Phoenix Park, and the Red Stables Market in St Anne’s Park, Raheny, are ideal antidotes to the fast pace of modern life.
Arts and Antiques Francis Street, in the beating heart of The Liberties, is Dublin’s traditional antiques quarter and its proud tradition continues today, thanks to such well-regarded establishments as Niall Mullen Antiques and Martin Fennelly Antiques. Those seeking work by the latest generation of
young Irish artists should high-tail it to the Jam Art Gallery on Patrick’s Street – in the shadow of St Patrick’s Cathedral – where a wide selection is available. Whether you love contemporary or traditional art, Gallery Zozimus, also on Francis St, offers an excellent collection of paintings, sculptures in bronze, ceramic, glass and wood as well as street and urban art, and here you will find exciting work from many new and emerging artists. For more cool ideas about exploring Dublin’s vibrant shopping scene, see www. visitdublin.com.
GAZETTE
24 BLANCH GAZETTE 8 September 2016
DUBLINLIFE
CINEMA
ReelReviews
LIGHTS OUT
A bright idea for a film DIRECTOR James Wan takes the premise of a short film and gives it a decent treatment with Lights Out (Cert 15A, 81 mins). A young boy is being haunted by a dangerous and very real being who lives in the dark – however, she has direct ties to his family, some of whom know exactly who ‘Diana’ is ... Wan’s skill at directing horror come to the fore, with an interesting premise presented with skill.
THE PURGE 3
Gets a vote of approval TO GIVE it its full and correct name, The Purge: Election Year (Cert 16, 109 mins) isn’t going to win any votes for sharpness, but its twisted take on politics and violence in America is entertaining enough. A US senator and her team try to survive the annual Purge – 12 hours when any and all crime is legal – against the ever-shrinking odds. This latest Purge film provides some food for thought.
SAUSAGE PARTY A half-baked idea
Sausage Party (Cert 16, 89 mins) provides a side-order of utterly foul-mouthed silliness, sprinkled with crudity. What would happen if your food could talk, only to realise that – gulp – it’s doomed to be skinned, burned, boiled and eaten alive? Sausage Party starts off well, but runs out of juice before the juice – and the sausages, and the eggs, and the milk – try to run off to freedom.
Viggo Mortensen is perfect as the radical patriarch in this enjoyable, offbeat road movie.
IT’S A FAMILY AFFAIR: A STRICT SENSE OF IDEALISM AND OUTSIDER POLITICS
A not quite fantastic dramedy
CAPTAIN Fantastic is a gorgeously shot, often heart-warming and occasionally poignant dramedy, telling the story of a father attempting to raise his family in seclusion with a strict sense of idealism and outsider politics. Viggo While Mortensen is perfect as the radical patriarch in this enjoyable, offbeat road movie, Captain Fantastic suffers from underdeveloped themes and a tendency to fall back on flat political discourse and all-toofamiliar tropes. Ben Cash and his family live off the grid in a secluded Washington woodland. Exhibiting an acute disdain for the capital-
MARTIN MACNAMARA
ist culture of modern America, Ben raises his children with ideological fervour, training them in the basics of survivalism, teaching them multiple languages and lecturing a vast swathe of communist doctrine. Despite some oddball tendencies, Ben’s children seem happy and healthy enough. Tragedy, however, sets them off on a journey of personal discover y across America: Ben’s wife, suffering from depression in an
institution, has taken her own life. The family leaves for New Mexico to reclaim her body from his inlaws and have it cremated, in line with her beliefs as a Buddhist. Captain Fantastic is at its best when attempting to probe Ben’s seemingly unshakeable worldview. While his idealism is often infectious, director Matt Ross doesn’t refrain from exposing the darker side of such an unwavering attitude. Indeed, although Ben leads his brood with tenderness, humour and a kind hand, he is occasionally unsympathetic and often easy to dislike. The Cash family, raised on ritual and
optimistic radicalism, occasionally borders on a cult – with Ben as its fanatical leader. Ben doesn’t give his children freedom to grow. Rather, he leaves them no other option than to follow in his footsteps. Consequently, Captain Fantastic works best when Ben begins to learn how to be a father, and not just a leader or guide. Ross’s film is genuinely affecting when the cracks begin to show in Ben’s perception of himself. Unfortunately, while this makes for an emotional, human story, it muddles some of the politics on which it is founded and leaves a number of interesting
themes underdeveloped. T he alternative child-rearing politics it espouses often boils down to videogames = bad, reading = good. Unfortunately, for all its radicalism, Captain Fantastic rarely thinks outside the box. The road movie plot frequently journeys through well-worn territory and familiar fish out of water jokes dominate the script. While there is plenty of room to explore the potentially hilarious interactions that Ben’s children could have with wider society, the most significant encounter comes down to tiresome clumsiness with the opposite sex. Des pite its f laws , Captain Fantastic is
often moving, thoughtful and stimulating; the sense of idealism that permeates throughout is, admittedly, genuinely inspiring. While it suffers from an occasionally torpid pace and about three e n d i n g s t o o m a ny, Captain Fantastic has much to say about family life and the cost of idealism. Beautifully shot and replete with some great performances from its young stars, especially George McKay as eldest son Bodevan, Captain Fantastic is certainly worth a look. It’s just a shame it never quite manages to tell the radical tale that its oddball beginning suggests. Verdict: 7/10
8 September 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 25
BATMAN: TELLTALE GAMES’S LATEST TITLE IMPRESSES
Bruce Wayne faces his darkest knight SHANE DILLON
Tech Editor
POOR old Bruce Wayne – his parents were killed in 1939, and yet here we are in 2016, but Gotham’s well-meaning (and wellheeled) socialites are still banging on about it! The unfortunate Wayne family history – and their business dealings – are just part of the story driving part one of the five-part Batman (multiplatform; c. €5.99
per episode, Cert 18); the latest adventure title from critically acclaimed developer , Telltale Games. At its simplest, Batman takes familiar elements from the masked vigilante’s established canon (Gotham as a fundamentally corrupt city, Jim Gordon as its gruffly honest police commissioner, and so on) but crafts a new story with these oh-so- familiar components. Chiefly, it asks ... what
if the Waynes weren’t as squeaky-clean as everyone – including their troubled heir, Bruce – thought they were? Could the whole Wayne empire come crashing down because of some alleged ties to ‘dirty money’? The stage is thus set for a sprawling multi-part tale (with Episode 2 due for release on September 20), as Bruce’s tdarkest days and greatest personal trials loom ...
Despite the game’s cartoony cel-shaded graphics, there’s a decidedly adult, and engaging, tale being told here, creating a Gotham that’s worthy of the Batman legend. With each chapter only lasting a brisk couple of hours, they won’t outstay their welcome, with a story that develops from any decisions you make. Regular gamers may not go batty for this one, but it’s still worth flitting into Gotham to try this.
Your choices and decisions (above) shape how the story develops, creating a personal tale. (Top) You’ll soon run into some well-known characters around – or above – Gotham City.
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28 BLANCH GAZETTE 8 September 2016
SPORT
FastSport FAI HONOURS 75 GRADUATES: THE FAI and the Education and Training Boards (ETB) celebrated the graduation of the 2015/16 class after they successfully completed the football training course. A ceremony was held in the FAI National Training Centre where Republic of Ireland manager Martin O’Neill and assistant manager Roy Keane were on hand to give out certificates to the graduates. Keane shares a special connection with the course having been enrolled as a young player prior to a move to England and it is a course that has directly benefitted the SSE Airtricity League with over 100 graduates competing in the League. The centres Cabra, Clondalkin, Irishtown, Limerick, Castlebar, Blarney, Carrigaline and Ringmahon - have proved to be hugely influential in developing young players to go on to a higher level.
LADIES FOOTBALL: CABINTEELY SURVIVE THRILLING BRIGID’S SALVO LATE ON
Connolly’s star turn for Foxrock SENIOR FOOTBALL FINAL
Foxrock Cabinteely 1-13 St Brigid’s 2-9 JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com
FOXROCK Cabinteely maintained their Dublin senior ladies’ football title with the tightest of wins over rivals St Brigid’s, who they beat in the finale for the second year in a row to progress to provin-
cial level. The current powerhouse of Dublin ladies club football faced a massive scare, however, as they almost threw away a game they controlled for huge chunks in the dying seconds. The southsiders got off to a strong start in a low scoring first half, with Amy Connolly at full-forward looking particularly
threatening as she took on the role of playmaker, dropping back into the half forward line to power attacks herself. While Connolly and co racked up the points, though, Brigid’s threatened goals. First, Marian Monaghan just failed to connect with a crossfield ball yards from the Foxrock goal, before the prolific Leah Mullins
Foxrock put 12 players on the line to block a late free. Picture: Peter Hickey/GAAPics.com
Foxrock Cabinteely celebrate winning the New Ireland Assurance Dublin ladies football senior championship. Picture: Peter Hickey/GAAPics.com
went one better. Mullins got on the end of a scrappy attack, breaking into the heart of the box, where she beat the despairing dive of goalkeeper Laurie Ahern. Fox Cab were the more efficient side throughout, though, and simply kept knocking over the points, with Connolly and Amy Ring the main protagonists. When Ring got on the end of a sweeping move to beat Ciara Trant from close range, Foxrock found themselves with a 1-8 to 1-4 half-time lead that reflected their dominance. The second half was tighter, and in large parts the sheer athleticism of Foxrock Cabinteely meant they looked like
strolling away with things. The margin slowly stretched, until AnneMarie Murphy knocked over the tightest of points with five minutes left on the clock to open up a six point lead. But there was almost to be a sting in the tail. First, Enya Farrell finally found some space behind the Cabinteely defence, hitting a sharp strike to close the gap to a single goal. Brigid’s awoke, with Caroline Brogan adding a point, and Farrell spinning a powerful second goal attempt just inches wide of the far post. The game ended with a series of Brigid’s frees, and with a goal needed to snatch the title, the hold-
ers lined half the team up on the goal line and defended for their lives. Str uggling to find space, Brigid’s refused the easy point knowing they were two down with seconds of injury time remaining. Eventually, the ball broke to Elaine Kelly, who with a fraction of a second’s space, dragged a goal attempt just over the top as Foxrock held on. Brigid’s – outsider based on their recent record against Foxrock Cabinteely – came within inches of pulling off a final shock that for much of the game didn’t look on the cards. By a single point, 1-13 to 2-9, Foxrock Cabinteely cling to their title.
Hoolahan helps launch new FAI schools season sport@dublingazette.com
Irish internationals Richard Keogh, Alex Pearce and Wes Hoolahan at thge FAI launch. Picture: David Maher/Sportsfile
REPUBLIC of Ireland and Derby County duo Richard Keogh and Alex Pearce, along with Wes Hoolahan, Norwich City, launched the Bank of Ireland FAI Schools Post Primary Schools competitions for the 2016/17 season this week at Abbotstown. Joining the international players in the FAI National Training Centre were the winners and runners-up of last season’s Bank of Ireland FAI Schools Senior Cups.
These prestigious competitions have featured many highprofile players through the years, most notable Ireland internationals Seamus Coleman (St Catherine’s Vocational School, Killybegs) and Stephen Ward (Portmarnock Community School). The interest in schools football has increased over the last number of years with 38,000 players from 510 schools participating nationwide last year. Speaking about Bank of Ireland’s involvement, Laura Lynch, Head of Youth Banking,
said: “As Ireland’s leading bank for students, we are delighted to be sponsoring the FAI Post Primary Schools competitions for a third year. Sport plays a very positive role in youth development; helping to build character, foster higher self-esteem, and grow teamwork and leadership skills. “The high level of involvement by schools across the country demonstrates the huge appetite out there for initiatives like this. The strength of Bank of Ireland’s school and community ties through its 250-strong branch network makes us the perfect
partner to support this competition to continue to grow and develop nationwide.” The numerous cup and league competitions offer huge variety with small and large schools catered for. There are various divisions that accommodate boys and girls from first year right through to Leaving Certificate. The FAI Schools programme is co-ordinated at provincial level and schools are encouraged to sign up now for the forthcoming season as competitions will be commencing at the end of September.
8 September 2016 BLANCH GAZETTE 29
GAZETTE
LADIES FOOTBALL: NORTH COUNTY SIDE LAND JUNIOR A
CLUB NOTICEBOARD ST BRIGID’S BEST of luck to our junior hurlers in the
cheer on the girls.
C championship semi-final v Clontarf
The nursery returns this Saturday,
this Sunday, September 11. This match
September 10 in Russell Park from
will be in St Anne’s Park and the team
9.30am to 11am. We welcome all four-
and management would like lots of St
to seven-year-olds in the Castle-
Brigid’s support.
knock and Blanchardstown area and
Good luck to Eoin Kennedy in the
new members and families are always
All-Ireland handball final in the Croke
welcome. For further information and
Park handball centre on Saturday,
queries contact David: 085 8340169.
September 10. Tickets are available to
A juvenile camogie disco will take
purchase online from the GAA hand-
place for 11-13 year-olds in the club on
ball website.
Friday, September 9 from 8-11pm. All
Hard luck to our ladies football
welcome.
team in the senior ladies county final
St Brigid’s lotto resumed on Thurs-
last Friday. The girls gave everything
day night after the summer break
in the final and can be very proud of
and there was no jackpot winner. The
their efforts. Thank you to all the sup-
jackpot remains at €15,000 with the
Leonard knocks out Castle’s comeback
porters who came to Parnell Park to
reserve also at €15,000.
Best wishes to Aisling, Aoife, Claire,
Saturdays at 10am, say hello to one
St Maur’s 1-11 Castleknock 1-10 JAMES HENDICOTT
Molly and Niamh and their mentors
of our friendly coaches and enjoy the
Eilish and Josie, who have qualified for
sport and fun.
Castleknock prior to their Junior A championship final against St Maur’s. Picture: Niall O’Connell
JUNIOR A FINAL
sport@dublingazette.com
ST MAUR’S edged out Castleknock to claim the New Ireland Assurance Junior A championship final despite almost giving up an eight-point first half lead. Castleknock restricted Maur’s to just three points from the 23rd minutes onwards but, in a low scoring end, Olivia Leonard kept her cool to slot over with an injury time final kick and send the title to the north county. The first half was frantic. Hannah Hanton set the tone, smashing a free from distance over the Maur’s bar. Leonard delivered a swift response, first scoring from a tight angle down the right, and then beating her marker to weave in on goal off the touchline and add a second. Maur’s quickly established early dominance, their powerful running side racking up five points on the bounce, the
last coming from an Aine Pyne run and shot that smashed off the crossbar and edged over the bar rather than into the net. Alice McNally pulled one back but it was becoming increasingly clear that the Rush side had pace in abundance, as first Pyne and then McGuinness found the space to blitz through the Castleknock defence. With Maur’s already five points up, Naomi Clare’s free from distance dropped just over the head of a back-pedaling Amy Mahony and into the Castleknock net, opening up a eight points lead for Maur’s and leaving Castleknock with a mountain to climb. Aoife Whelan hit back, latching onto a long ball over the Maur’s defence to charge in on ‘keeper Francesca Towers and slot in at her at her near post. Three minutes later, Aisling O’Donnell almost had the game blown wide open as her speculative shot beat Towers but clattered off the bottom of the Maur’s post. Castleknock were on the charge, though, and
having been 1-8 to 0-3 down, went in at halftime behind by just 1-8 to 1-5. Castleknock came out hard after the break, too, with McNally pushing a chance on goal wide, and Maur’s packing the defence but the gap sat at about three points as the teams exchanged scores and the game went through a scrappy period. Midway through the second half it had been over a third of a match since Maur’s had scored, and despite being behind Castleknock were starting to look like favourites. O’Donnell came close as she burst through and hit
a firm strike straight at Maur’s ‘keeper Towers. Leonard steadied the ship, breaking their scoring duck and reopening a two point difference. Carolan halved that and with Maur’s hitting a string of wides, Castleknock eventually took advantage to level through substitute Debbie Geraghty. Maur’s turned it on when it counted as the outstanding Leonard showed the composure needed to break from midfield and fire the match-winning point firmly over for Maur’s magic moment.
CASTLEKNOCK THE club are extremely proud of our
unlucky to lose out to Clontarf in the
ladies footballers who played in two
championship.
exciting championship finals last week
Our nursery is back in full swing
with both sides unlucky to lose out by
and new members are very welcome.
the narrowest of margins. Keep the
Just come down to Tir na nOg (beside
faith girls and keep it going.
Castleknock Community College) on
the Liberty Squad Goals final in Croke
The Joe Coyle Memorial Walk, spon-
Park on Camogie All-Ireland Day this
sored by Complete Office Equipment,
Sunday, September 11.
takes place from Bray to Greystones
Our family day was postponed due
This is a fundraising initiative for
place on Saturday, September 17 in
the club so please support the walk
Somerton Park. As its the All-Ireland
and the walkers. Sincere thanks to Lidl
final weekend, it promises to be great
for their much appreciated contribu-
fun with activities for all the family.
tion to the club. Club members can get
Our adult Division 5 footballers
clothes cleaned in Deyclean in Spar
had a great away league win over Na
Carpenterstown and 10% of spend will
Fianna and our second minor hurling
go to the club.
team also beat Na Fianna in the championship. Our minor A hurlers were
We all send our best wishes to club member Ailbhe Kelly in Rio.
NAOMH PEREGRINE HARD luck to the minor hurlers who
Scallan as GPO; we would like to wish
lost to Na Fianna in their champion-
her well in her new role.
ship match.
The academy kids are back train-
Well done to the U-15 boys’ football-
ing on Saturdays; the nursery (born
ers who had a big win against Scoil Ui
2011/2012) at 09.30am and academy
Chonaill. The U-13 girls beat Castle-
(born 2009/2010) at 10.30am. Bring
knock in their football championship
gum shields, helmets, hurls, water,
on Saturday and the next day they had
subs etc.
a great win against Naomh Mearnog in
Training every Thursday (5-6pm)
the camogie championship. The U-9s
and Saturday, newcomers welcome.
girls won their camogie match away
For further details, call Niall on 086 607
to Thomas Davis.
3190 or Barry on 087 618 3868
The club is running a draw for All-
There will be live music in the club
Ireland Tickets; books of tickets are
after the All-Ireland semi-final. Bingo
available with proceeds going towards
takes place every Wednesday night at
a new electronic scoreboard. All tick-
8.30pm; single book €10, double book
ets sold or unsold must be returned to
€15, jackpot €200. Live music on Sat-
the club by Septemebr 9.
urday night. DJ every Sunday night.
The club have appointed Amanda Castleknock battle for possession
on Saturday, September 17.
to the bad weather and will now take
Sunday lunch available.
GAZETTE
30 BLANCH GAZETTE 8 September 2016
SPORT
FastSport NOLAN ON DOUBLE FOR DUFF: ALAN Nolan was on the mark twice as Corduff continued their upsurge in form after an initially sticky start to the LSL Sunday Premier 1 season. He fired home both goals in a 2-0 win over Valeview Shankill to make it two wins on the trot after they had initially drawn with Belgard Athletic 4-4 and then lost to FC Transylvania and Terenure Rangers. But a win against Tymon Bawn last week was followed up by this second victory.
SOCCER: MOCHTA’S GET SEASON UP AND RUNNING WITH IMPRESSIVE VICTORY
Four star Hughes hits the Marc LSL SUNDAY SENIOR St Mochta’s St Pat’s CY KARL GRAHAM
5 2
sport@dublingazette.com
MARC Hughes was the hero as his four goals saw St Mochta’s register their first win of the season in a 5-2 victory over St Patrick’s CY. With most of the focus going on fellow new signings David Lacey and Marc Dolan, it is Hughes who has sur prised by sitting at the top of the goal charts.
It was Lacey who opened the scoring against the run of play after 15 minutes of CY being on top. The game was levelled at the 27 minute mark, but it was short lived as Hughes got his first of the game just 60 seconds later. St Mochta’s lead was increased three minutes later when Hughes was on the score sheet again – rising highest to nod home Karl Somers’ brilliant cross. The second half proved as eventful as
the first, with both sides hitting the woodwork within the first 10 minutes before the Saints’ lead was reduced on 63 minutes. However, deja v u struck as Hughes once again scored within 60 seconds of his opponents, to stamp his name on the match ball, before completed his haul from the penalty spot, St Mochta’s manager Brian McCarthy spoke to GazetteSport about the win and his side’s start to the season.
St Mochta’s manager Brian McCarthy, second from right
“It was a great performance from the team. We conceded a softish goal but I thought we were excellent. “The first two games ended in draws and considering we were winning both of them, we are probably slightly disappointed not to pick
up those three points. The win leaves St Mochta’s in fourth position and after a midtable finish last season, McCarthy hopes his side can kick on and finish higher this year. “We are really well prepared going into games this year, which I
think is slightly different from last year. “Our target is to compete at the top and with the team we have I’m sure we can. “Whether it’s enough to win it or not I don’t know, but definitely hoping we can be there or thereabouts.”