Castleknock

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July 7, 2011

YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER

INSIDE: Celebrating as a new Doc arrives in town P10

HOUSE IN ORDER: Farmleigh praised for standard of public service See Page 3

Celebration: Saint Brigid’s NS receives first Green Flag Hurling: Locals help Dublin to take Leinster title Page 32

TEACHERS Samantha Connolly and Denise McIntyre along with pupils from St Brigid’s National School show off a special cake made to celebrate the school receiving their first Green Flag award. After the flag-raising ceremony guests went to the Parish Centre to enjoy some refreshments and tuck into the fantastic cake.

Picture: Conor O’Mearain

Full Gallery on Pages 8 and 9

Sports Awards: June winners are announced inside Page 29

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ................8-10 MOTORS ........................18 PROPERTY ................... 20 BUSINESS .....................21 GOING OUT ................... 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

Fingal waste service set to be scrapped Review says the Council is facing up to a €7m loss

Q LAURA WEBB

FINGAL County Council’s waste service is set to be scrapped after an independent review projected that the local authority will lose a massive €7 million in 2012 if it continues to provide the service, the Gazette can reveal.

Following the publication

of the report last week, Fingal said the service was simply no longer “viable”. The issue is set to top the agenda at a meeting at County Hall next week.

In the memorandum, the county manager, David O’Connor, said: “The report concluded unequivocally that there was no prospect of the

service being made cost-neutral to the council in the current competitive context.

“The loss of customers, the increasing demand for waivers, and the inroads of competition from private operators, combined to project a minimum loss of €7 million,” he said.

Full Story on Page 6

2 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 7 July 2011

ELECTION: NO LITTER FINES WERE ISSUED

EVENT Castleknock Toastmasters Club

All political Club out parties obey in force poster rules Q LAURA WEBB castleknock@gazettegroup.com

NO litter fines were issued to candidates from the recent General Election, Fingal County Council has said this week.

In the lead-up to the February election hundreds of posters from candidates vying for a seat in the Dail were put up throughout the Dublin West constituency.

Posters were seen on lamp-posts, bridges, and railings across Dublin West, while some were also seen littering the roads of Fingal during the high-wind weather.

But it seems candidates were conscious of keeping their constituency clean and made sure that all the posters distributed throughout the county were removed before the deadline, seven days after polling day, on February 25.

The council said that they did not issue any “litter fines to members of political parties, and non-political parties in respect of non-removal of election posters after

the deadline date”.

If candidates were found to have posters on display after the deadline date, they were liable to a fine by Fingal. “ We a r e s a t i s f i e d that posters in Fingal’s administrative area were removed in accordance with the legislation, and our proactive approach to communications with the relevant candidates in this regard ensured a timely and satisfactory removal of posters,” a council spokeswoman said.

Before the announcement of this year’s election, candidates were also warned that they could face litter fines if they were found to put up posters before the election was called.

In 2009 a provision was enacted forbidding candidates to erect posters before an election is called or 30 days before polling day, whichever is sooner. If candidates were found to be in breach of the regulation, local authorities had the power to issue on-thespot fines of €150 for each breach.

to mark 25 years Q LAURA WEBB

MEMBERS and supporters of the Castleknock Toastmasters’ Club were out in force last weekend when they celebrated their 25th anniversary.

Members were in full party mode when they marked the milestone anniversary in Castleknock Golf Club’s Vue Restaurant.

Commenting on the anniversary, newly appointed President,

Ciaran Moore said the club was extremely “proud” of its achievements over the 25 years.

“This was reflected in the great support we had on the evening, which included some of our founding members.

“We have a reputation for being a very friendly community-based club which suppor ts our members through positive self-development by enhancing their verbal communication and leadership skills and, as they

Yvonne O’Sullivan, vice-president of Public Relations, Ted Corcoran, former International President of Toastmasters, and Sinead Moore, vice-president of Education

say, results speak for them selves,” he said.

Develop Toastmasters International is as non-profit organisation which gives its members the opportunity to develop and improve their communication and leadership abilities through local club meetings, training seminars, and

speech contests.

T he Castleknock To a s t m a s t e r s ’ C l u b meets in the function room of Myos Public House in the heart of Castleknock Village.

New members are always welcome and anyone interested in finding out more about the exciting and growing club are welcome to just walk into the next

meeting on September 1, from 8pm until 10pm, to experience it before joining. Following this meeting, the club meets fortnightly.

Toastmasters’ Summer Club is commencing on Wednesday, July 6 and will run to the last Wednesday in August. It is taking place in The Temple Bar Hotel every Wednesday night at 6.50pm.

Man defrauded club out of €10,000 A YOUTH team manager with Bohemians’ Football Club has been jailed for six years for defrauding the club out of €10,000 and possessing cocaine worth €1 million.

Mark Touhey (28), who is a “borderline pathological” gambler, stole deposits paid by the youth team for a trip to Spain, money raised by the teams by packing shopping bags and money raised for the club by a race night he organised.

He also stole the club subscription fees paid over by the team’s parents for their membership.

The court heard he partly agreed to hold the cocaine to raise funds to pay back the money stolen from Bohemians.

Touhey, of Cedar Grove, Clonsilla, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to five counts of theft totalling €9,750 from

Bohemians FC between August 1, 2008, and December 31, 2008.

He also pleaded guilty to possession of €949,550 worth of cocaine for sale or supply at Woodvale Drive, Clonsilla on November 5, 2009.

Judge Martin Nolan noted it was Touhey’s gambling addiction which originally created “the thirst for money” that caused him to steal from the club. He noted the gardai accepted the cocaine was not his and that he was holding it for someone else.

Garda Colin Ryan told prosecuting counsel, Mr Maurice Coffey BL, that Touhey was hired by the youth development officer as a youth team manager. One of his responsibilities was collecting subscription fees from the players for club membership and uniforms. Touhey stole €2,500 of these fees.

Later he was helping organise a team trip to Marbella and €2,550 was paid over in deposits by the players. The trip was later cancelled and Touhey was given the deposits to return to the players. He stole this money.

Touhey organised a race night as a fundraiser for the club even though Bohemians had not sanctioned it. Sponsors were organised for the race programme and youth members were given fundraising cards to collect money. He raised €4,000 through this, none of which made it to the club. He also organised for his youth team to pack shopping bags at supermarket checkouts to raise money. They did this on two occasions and raised €700, which was also stolen.

Gardai began investigating and spoke to Touhey in April 2009 when he made full admissions.

He said he had gambled away nearly all of the money as soon as he got it and had intended to pay it back.

Gda Andy Reynolds said that, in November 2009, he searched a room Touhey was renting after receiving a tip-off about drugs. They broke down the front door and the door of his bedroom when Touhey refused to let them in. They found Touhey inside, with cocaine in block form and in powder form in a bin bag. They also found a weighing scales, compressor, generator and mixing agents for cocaine.

Touhey admitted he was holding the drugs for someone else in return for money, which he intended to partly use to repay the club. He said he had helped package the drugs but did not assist in mixing them.

7 July 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 3

AWARD Accreditation for high standard of public service EVENT: OPW’S ACTION

PACKED FUN FOR KIDS

The OPW summer camps will take place at the Phoenix Park

Farmleigh House received an accreditation by the Heritage Council at a ceremony in the Royal College of Physicians

Farmleigh House passes test royally Q LAURA WEBB castleknock@gazettegroup.com

ONCE the home to the Guinness family, the now State-owned Farmleigh House has had a busy year with visits from Queen Elizabeth II and Barack Obama and, last week, it was awarded accreditation by the Heritage Council for its high standard of public service.

The certificates were presented by Mr Jimmy Deenihan, TD, Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, during a ceremony in the Royal College of Physicians.

Speaking about the

award, Brian Hayes, TD, Minister of State at the Department of Finance with special responsibility for the OPW, paid tribute to the staff at the historic Castleknock house, saying: “I commend the team at Farmleigh, led by Mary Heffernan, Bridgeen Kelly and Julia Cummins, in achieving this award.

“The award assures potential visitors of high standards in visitor services, collections care and museum management.

“Farmleigh has become a benchmark for the delivery of outstanding public service to visitors, from the hundreds of thou-

sands that visit annually to the visiting Heads of State, most recently Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip.

It is at Farmleigh that Her Majesty viewed the Irish Primer that is believed to have inspired the now famous opening lines of her address at Dublin Castle, ‘A hUachtarain agus a chairde’. Farmleigh is the first of six OPW historic properties participating in the programme to achieve full accreditation. The judges commended Farmleigh, OPW for ‘its commitment to excellence and the exemplary fashion in which it achieved some of

the standards, in particular caring for collections,” Minister Hayes said.

The Museum Standards Programme for Ireland (MSPI) aims to benchmark and raise professional minimum standards in the museum sector.

The programme consists of a series of detailed and rigorous standards that recognise international best practice in museums in areas such as caring for collections, museum management, documentation and visitor services.

A vo l u n t a r y p r o gramme, it has attracted involvement from across

the cultural spectrum — from national institutions to small, volunteerled organisations.

An application for interim accreditation takes three years to complete, while full accreditation takes five years.

F a r m l e i g h ( OP W ) was awarded full accreditation after only three years in the programme.

There are a total of 50 museums currently par ticipating in the programme, with 40% now having achieved interim, or full, accreditation, with more museums expected to join the programme.

Summer camps Q LAURA WEBB castleknock@gazettegroup.com

THE OPW has announced an actionpacked summer camp line-up for children looking for something different to do this holiday season.

The OPW Children’s Summer Eco Camps 2011 are in association with Eco-Unesco take place at the Phoenix Park visitor centre during July every Tuesday for five to eightyear-olds, and Thursday for nine to 12-year-olds.

Children will learn about trees and flowers of the park on July 5-7.

Then, from July 12-14, the camp is all about kids recycling.

And, from July 19 until July 21, you can learn more about the deer and the animals of the park while on July 26 and July 28, children can learn more about the heritage of the park, the largest walled park in Europe.

Price for the camps is

€10 per day per child and booking is essential. For further details, phone the Phoenix Park visitor centre at 01-677 0095.

Meanwhile, the young at heart can find out more about the beautifully restored Victorian walled kitchen garden.

Learn about growing your own fruit and vegetables, herbs and more.

OPW professional gardeners, Brian and Meeda, will be on hand at the gardens on Saturday, July 9 from 10.30am until 12.30pm to give advice on keeping the garden in shape this summer. Suitable footwear is needed.

Gardens open seven days a week, from 10am until 4pm.

The Victorian walled kitchen gardens is located next to the Phoenix Park visitor centre, and the Phoenix cafe.

A weekly account of planting and harvesting at the garden is also given by garden designer and writer, Fionnuala Fallon.

4 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 7 July 2011

NULTY: I WILL BE A VOICE FOR FINGAL COMMUNITIES

Deputy Mayor sets out his plan Q LAURA WEBB AND MIMI MURRAY news@gazettegroup.com

FINGAL’S new Deputy Mayor, Labour Councillor Patrick Nulty, has vowed to be a voice for the communities across Fingal and argue for the protection and delivery of vital services needed by them.

The newly elected deputy mayor said he was delighted to be nominated and elected by his council colleagues as the Deputy Mayor of Fingal County Council.

The local councillor was elected at the annual meeting held on Friday, June 24. Here, his fellow Labour Party councillor, serving the Swords/ Balbriggan area, Gerry McGuire, took up the chain of office as Mayor of Fingal.

Speaking to the Gazette following his new appointment, Cllr Nulty spoke of his objectives in his new role.

“My objective is, first and foremost, to be a voice for communities across Fingal and to make sure of that in whatever way I can within in the role. I want to ensure that different groups working hard in local communities, tackling the many serious problems that local areas are facing, will have someone who will speak for them and represent them.

“That is what I want to use the role as Deputy Mayor for – I want to be a voice for the citizens. I will argue for the protection of vital local services and for delivery of projects in communities, and, if I can do that over the next year, I will be happy,” Cllr Nulty said.

He went on to say he will be “working closely” with the new mayor and, in practical terms, if the mayor is unavailable to chair meetings or attend public meetings, he will be stepping in.

Newly elected Mayor, Labour politician Gerry McGuire said: “Over the coming year, Fingal County Council will be focusing our efforts to make ourselves the focus of Ireland’s recovery, and we will work hard to make sure that Fingal continues to be open for business.

“As Mayor of Ireland’s youngest and most business friendly county, I will be sending out a clear message that Fingal is pro-business and projobs,” he said.

Handing over the mayoral chains, outgoing Mayor, Cllr Ken Farrell, congratulated Cllr McGuire on his election and thanked his party colleagues, his family and friends and also paid tribute to County Manager, David O’Connor, and his staff.

Ride on: Noel’s clearly app-y with his iPad2 BEING presented with his wheelie impressive iPad2, is

Castleknock’s Noel Rushe.

Out of the thousands of people who took part in Dublin City Council’s Bike to Work lunchtime cycle on June

22, Noel was the lucky rider whose name was drawn for an Apple iPad2. Noel is pictured being presented with his top-of-the-line tablet by the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Cllr Andrew Montague, at the Mansion House.

COUNCIL: INTERNAL MEMO REVEALS MANAGER’S DECISION

Cutting Fingal’s waste service is ‘inevitable’ Q LAURA WEBB

news@gazettegroup.com

FINGAL County Council has informed local councillors that withdrawing its waste collection service next year is “inevitable” following continual losses in the service.

An independent review, published on Wednesday, June 29, claims the waste service provided by Fingal is “not viable” and a projected minimum loss of €7 million in 2012 has forced the council to admit that cutting the service is inevitable.

In May 2011, FCC and SIPTU commissioned Ampersand Consultants to undertake an examination and evaluation of the viability of the kerbside collection and disposal service of FCC. In its findings the consultants verified the “extent of losses” identified by

council management in respect of year ending December 31, 2010.

According to the report, the most significant determining factor in evaluation of the service is the “steady and substantial rate of decline in the number of paying customers” and it’s the opinion of the consultants that losses will continue to rise, making the service “not viable”.

This week, management at FCC sent a memorandum to councillors outlining its position on the refuse collection service ahead of a council debate on the issue, scheduled for next week’s council meeting.

In the memorandum, the county manager David O’Connor said: “The report concluded unequivocally that there was no prospect of the service being made cost-

A decision by Fingal to cut bin services is “inevitable”

neutral to the council in the current competitive context. It is the opinion of the consultant that the level of loss could not be recovered through efficiencies of operation for that period.

“It is the case that the decision to withdraw from the service is inevitable. The sole alternative to this course of action is to remove €7m from all other budget areas for Budget 2012.”

Bin service staff have been informed, and the manager said there will be “no compulsory redundancies and that redeployment into areas where there is need for staff will be arranged.

Discussions on the detail of such arrangements are now commencing with SIPTU on behalf of the bin service workers in this regard.”

Fine Gael Councillor Kieran Dennison,

chairman of the council’s Environment Committee said: “The service is losing a lot of money and projecting a lot more [losses]. Since being elected I have been saying that, if the council didn’t get its act together on the refuse collection service, then, inevitably, we will be driven out of it by private operators, and that is what’s happened.

“This is not the time when they should have been looking at a report on this, if they looked at this maybe four or five years ago, then we might have been able to head the inevitable,” Cllr Dennison said.

Fingal County Council declined to comment further on the report “in advance of a full discussion on this matter at the council meeting on July 11.”

7 July 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5

HEALTHY Teena Gates will cook at charity event

Cooking gourmet food for charity Q LAURA WEBB news@gazettegroup.com

DUBLIN 15 adventurer Teena Gates is turning to the kitchen in a charity event that will see her cook up a storm with a healthy eating meal that shows losing weight doesn’t require starvation tactics.

The Gourmet Countsthemed night will see 98FM’s Head of News swap her hiking boots for a chef’s attire. She will be joined by Dublin 15 Weight Watchers leader, Vera Baker, who helped design the threecourse meal for the charity night on July 7 in the Angler’s Rest.

Over the years the Anglers Rest has had charity nights with different celebrities testing out their culinary skills during Look Who is Cooking. This event is a take on that, but with a difference.

Stunning

“It’s a night of fantastic gourmet food, and it’s healthy. People can be turned off by the idea that it’s a healthy option, but I really want people to come along and try the food, because it is just stunning.

“I wanted to do a gourmet night, a lookwho-is-cooking evening, but I wanted to do one that helped people because I am still trying to lose weight with Weight Watchers. Vera Baker agreed to help me do the cooking and plan the menu. We have an entire three-course meal, which counts up to 14 Weight Watchers points, which is quite amazing because the average daily is 29. There is steak, chicken, chilli prawns there, chocolate and raspberry in there, all sorts of goodies,” Teena told the Gazette.

Not only will there be a fantastic three-course meal on hand, the event will be a sure hit with all the girls, with fashion displays and beauty products, thanks to Debenhams, and a very special event with some bachelors.

Every ticket holder is also entered into a draw for some fantastic prizes. During the night there will also be a raffle for a unique piece of art designed by Jan Gray, wife of renowned artist, Philip Gray.

The Blanchardstown native was 23 stone before she lost 12 stone

Anglers Rest, Chapelizod, Weight Watchers – Linda Murphy, Catherine Flanagan, Vera Baker, Mary Mokad and Belinda Byrne are looking forward to an evening of healthy gourmet meals . Picture: Geraldine Woods

with Weight Watchers, and regular exercise. She has now a new found love for the outdoors and last year climbed beyond Mt Everest base camp to Island Peek for the Hope Foundation. This year she is raising money for Chernobyl Children international and recently sailed to Holyhead as part of a number of events she is organising.

Awareness

“The night is for Chernobyl Children International. The whole reason I am raising money for it this year, is because it is 25 years since the Chernobyl disaster. I think people have for-

gotten about Chernobyl and when I say that I am funding for children in Chernobyl, people say: sure I did that, they are all grown up they are gone away, it is not over, all the new children being born there are still being born with genetic problems – it hasn’t gone anyway. It is about raising funds, but also awareness for Chernobyl – that they are not forgotten,” Teena added.

The event takes place on Thursday, July 7, at Wright’s Angler’s Rest on the Strawberry Beds.

Tickets cost €50 and are being sold in Debenhams in Blanchardstown.

Stedfast Brass Band will be playing in Farmleigh this July Q LAURA WEBB

THERE will be music at the bandstand in Farmleigh when the Stedfast Brass Band takes centre stage in the beautiful surroundings of the stately estate this July.

The established brass band from Blackrock has been enter-

taining audiences since 1951.

Earlier this year, at the 46th National Band Championships of Ireland, the band were placed second at the 2011 Championships held at The Helix.

Musically Versatile

The, band pride themselves on being musically versatile with a

concert programme that could include a range of music from classical, folk, Latin American, film and TV, all the way to modern pop arrangements, appealing to all the family.

Catch the Stedfast Brass Band at the bandstand in Farmleigh’s Pleasure Gardens from 2pm to 4pm on Sunday, July 17. Admission is free.

GREEN FLAG School awarded the Green Flag A CASTLEKNOCK national school celebrated raising its first Green Flag last week.

Pupils, teachers and parents gathered at St. Brigid’s National School in Castleknock on Friday, June 24 for a ceremony marking the raising of the school’s first green flag.

Green Flags are awarded to schools who successfully participate in An Taisce’s Green Schools’ Programme.

The programme’s aim is to raise students’ awareness of environmental and sustainable development issues through classroom study.

Currently there are over 3,240 primar y, secondary and special schools in Ireland participating in the programme, and 1,759 schools have been awarded the Green Flag.

6 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 7 July 2011

SPORTS CAMP: TENNIS CLASSES FOR KIDS IN CASTLEKNOCK THIS SUMMER

Timepiece: See famous snapper’s new Swatch designs

BEAUTY PAGE 14

It’s a Wimbledon wannabe dream LAURA WEBB castleknock@gazettegroup.com

KIDS aspiring to play at Wimbledon can test their skills at their local club during summer camps at Castleknock Tennis Club.

The established tennis club is offering summer camps for all ages which will be led by the club’s coaches and caters for every standard of player.

Kids taking part in the camp should bring a snack and enough drinks to last the three-hour class. The camp is based

outdoors, if weather permits, and indoors for days the weather is unfavourable.

The Junior Tennis Programme takes place during the following dates: Week 1: Monday, July 11 – Friday, July 15; Week 2: Monday, July 18 – Friday, July 22; Week 3: Monday, July 25 – Friday, July 29; Week 4: Monday, August 1 until Friday, August 5; Week 5: Monday, August 8 – Friday, August 12.

Anyone interested in booking a place should call Gay in the office on 821 0423 between 10 am – 2 pm weekdays.

ACTIVITY The family can stay at

Local player coaching UCD soccer camp LAURA WEBB news@gazettegroup.com

CASTLEKNOCK sportsman, Paul Corry, was on hand to launch a new initiative by UCD AFC, in partnership with the Radisson Blu St. Helen’s Hotel, to bring more business to the local area and spread the word about its popular summer soccer camp.

Kids from all over Dublin have been experiencing the best in soccer training for the past 10 years with the UCD AFC summer soccer camps.

First team players Paul

Corry, from Castleknock, and David O’Connor, from Trim, who play in the Airtricity League, are the main coaches and ambassadors for the camp.

Boys and girls between the ages of five and 14 have been making their way to Belfield Campus to take part in the camps with the League of Ireland players as their coaches.

This year, UCD AFC has announced a new initiative in an attempt to bring more business to the local area, while spreading the popularity

of the UCD AFC summer camps, by partnering with The Radisson Blu St. Helen’s Hotel on the Stillorgan Road.

The hotel has a fantastic package, including a day with the summer soccer camp.

This package offers the opportunity for parents to escape and explore Dublin, safe in the knowledge that their children are being looked after and having fun in a safe environment.

First Team Players David and Paul were on hand to launch the partnership with the hotel.

7 July 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 7

Radisson Blu St Helen’s during summer camp

UCD AFC first team players, David O’Connor and Paul Corry, help launch the 2011 UCD AFC Summer Soccer Camp at the Radisson Blu St Helen’s on the Stillorgan Road

With Collee and some local children to help out, a little piece of the Summer Soccer Camp was recreated on the lawns of the Radisson Blu St Helen’s.

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UCD AFC’s club promotions officer, Philip Bourke, sees the partnership as an exciting step forward.

“Positive word-ofmouth has been key to

the development of the UCD AFC Summer Soccer Camp over the years and now we have the opportunity to spread that word outside the confines of south County

Dublin, while also helping to bring new business to the area.”

For further information, telephone The Radisson Blu St. Helen’s Hotel on 01-2186000.

8 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 7 July 2011

EVENT Saint Brigid’s National School holds a special ceremony

A reason to be green with envy T was a proud day for Saint Brigid’s National School when they held a special ceremony to mark the occasion of their first Green Flag. Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Frances Fitzgerald, was in attendance to present the award and she was presented with a bouquet of flowers on this very special occasion.

Principal Denis Courtney, teachers, staff and parents watched proudly as the Green

I

Flag was raised to acknowledge all the hard work and dedication which resulted in this award.

Afterwards everybody went to the Parish Centre to enjoy some refreshments and speak about the event. The school can now look forward to planning for its second Green Flag, which we are sure, with the same hard work and dedication, they will achieve before long.

Teachers Samantha Connolly and Denise McIntyre with the cake and pupils from

Junior infants, Grace Gibbons and Sean Ogbomo

Green Flag committee members Liam O’Doherty and Rachel Danaher presented the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Frances Fitzgerald, with a bouquet of flowers

7 July 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 9

to celebrate winning its first Green Flag Award

Niamh Williams conducting the school choir

Raising the flag: principal Denis Courtney, teachers Samantha Connolly and Denise McIntyre, Matthew McDonnell, Minister Fitzgerald the Green Flag committee. Picture: Conor O Mearain

and Cathal Murphy

Lia Fitzgerald and Niamh Scally

Edward O’Connor, Alex Molloy and Tadgh Leahy

Ella Feighery, Amy Lyons and Julia Matasel

Sean Ogbomo, Luke Hughes and Sean Brown

Teacher Samantha Connolly speaking at the ceremony

10 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 7 July 2011

EVENT

DocMorris Pharmacy opens in Castleknock

A new Doc in town!

HERE was exciting news for Castleknock residents recently when DocMorris Pharmacy invited friends and neighbours to the opening of its new store.

The new pharmacy is a major boost for the location, not only for its health benefits, but also bringing jobs to the area.

As part of the celebrations there was plenty of special offers to be had on some favourite brands for customers, who came to check out the special event.

The honour of cutting the ribbon was given to MD, Catriona Kelly, of DocMorris, Rebecca Horgan and her one-year-old daughter, Mia, who’s birthday was on the day of the opening.

T

Staff of Doc Morris, Castleknock, Catriona Kelly, Audrey Bruton and Beverley Dunne with Rebecca Horgan and one-year-old, Mia. Picture: Conor O’Mearain

Ann Martin and Margaret Brennan

Josh Watters with his parents Derek and Sarah, from Castleknock

Doc Morris managing director, Cormac Tobin, with Rebecca and Mia Horgan

Castleknock native Betty Turner with Catriona Kelly, of Doc Morris, Castleknock

Rebecca Horgan with her one-year-old daughter, Mia

Staff members; Sarah Jane Burton, Beverley Dunne, Cormac Tobin, MD, Catriona

Cutting the ribbon, Rebecca and Mia Horgan with

Kelly, Kelly Ann Tighe, Audrey Bruton, Colm McGarvey and Julia Skuratova

Catriona Kelly, of DocMorris, Castleknock

7 July 2011 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 7 July 2011

THE ARTS: STORY OF COPPELIA

EVENT A cool week of music and festival-going

Classic ballet comes to Dublin LAURA WEBB

ONE of the world’s leading classic ballet companies will pirouette its way to the Grand Canal Theatre in Dublin when it performs its enchanting production, Coppelia.

This will be the first time Birmingham Royal Ballet has performed in Dublin. The company is set to electrify its audience with the amazing talents by their ballet dancers.

Artistic director, David Kingley, of the Birmingham Royal Ballet has been with the company since leaving the Royal College of Ballet in the 70s and has been artistic director for 16 years.

Excited about coming to Dublin for the first time, David is confident that everyone, young and old, will enjoy the story of toymaker Dr Coppelius, who wants nothing more than for his life-like doll to come to life.

“It is one of our most popular full-length ballets, it is a particular favourite of the audience because it has wonderful music, it has a really good story and it is a comedy as well, audiences like it because of that. It is very much for the younger generation, too. I hesitate to use the term, but it is a family ballet, it appeals to everybody from young children to senior citizens.

“There is a feisty village girl, for one reason and another, ends up impersonating the doll and so the doctor Coppelius believes that he has brought this doll to life, but, in fact, it is this cheeky girl that is playing a trick on him. This particular production is Sir Peter Wrights,” David told the Gazette Coppelia comes to the Grand Canal Theatre from July 7 until July 9.

Check out www.grandcanaltheatre.ie for further information or book tickets through Ticketmaster on 0818 719 377.

Heineken unveils its grandest plans yet for Europe’s biggest rock and roll weekend, with ice cold drinks, surprise DJ sets and some of the biggest names in music

Heineken’s ultimate Oxegen experience is set to rock THIS year sees title sponsor, Heineken, unveil its grandest plans yet for Europe’s biggest rock and roll weekend.

Ice cold drinks, surprise DJ sets, the Heineken Cold Rooms and, of course, some of the biggest names in music under the Heineken Green Spheres’ canopy,are some of the treats in store for this year’s Oxegen-goers.

Heineken Greenspace

Heineken’s Greenspace returns to the festival once more, prom-

ising eclectic, surprise DJ sets and audio visual performances from some of Oxegen ‘11’s biggest international names.

As surprise guests are expected to drop in throughout the weekend, updates are available by free texting ‘GREENS PA C E ’ t o 5 0 01 5 t h r o u g h o u t O xe g e n weekend.

Greenspace also offers panoramic views of the festival on the open air terrace, as well as Oxegen’s coldest pint with Heineken Extra Cold served on tap.

The Heineken Cold Rooms return to Oxegen after a phenomenal ice-cold can experience at the festival last year.

They will be located at the entrance to each of the three campsites at Oxegen, and free to use for all who arrive with cans of Heineken during the festival weekend.

Ninety minutes is all that is needed to chill cans to optimum temperature and cans can be collected any time between 12pm and 2am during the festival, ensuring cold cans for the

duration of the fun-filled weekend.

To avoid the hassle of losing tokens, biometric fingerprint scans are used by festival goers to claim their chilled cans of Heineken.

Heineken Green Spheres stage

Renowned for providing multi-sensory music experiences, the Heineken Green Spheres stage continues to raise music fans to paranormal musical levels with its stellar line up.

This year, Heineken

unveils headliners Leftfield, Brandon Flowers and Primal Scream as part of the line up of the Heineken Green Spheres stage. Also on the line-up are The Vaccines, Chase & Status, Crystal Castles, Odd Future, Example and Calvin Harris.

The line-up

• Friday, July 8: Leftfield, Calvin Harris, Example, Whipping Boy, Bressie, Her Majesty & The Wolves, The Riptide Movement, Gypsies On The Autobahn and more to be announced.

www.gazette group.com All of your latest local news, sport, features and pictures are now just a click away

• Saturday, July 9: Brandon Flowers, The Vaccines, Professor Green, The Pretty Reckless, Cashier No.9, Fox Avenue, Propaganda DJs. • Sunday, July 10: Primal Scream, Chase & Status, Crystal Castles, Odd Future Wolf Gang Kill Them All, Ocean Colour Scene, The Saturdays, GROUPLOVE and more to be announced.

For full details of cold room locations and all the latest information on Oxegen visit www. heinekenmusic.ie.

7 July 2011 GAZETTE 13

A few simple steps toward tackling the effects of debt THE Phoenix Process is a group of individuals who came together with a vision of National Recovery. The Phoenix Process articles focus on different issues, the intention behind all of which will be to encourage, inspire, motivate and to bring much-needed hope.

Each writer is a professional, who has been affected by the economic crisis in different ways. One of the most important aspects of dealing with any crisis is positive and proactive support systems.

This column will be printed weekly, and, if you feel you would like to join in this process, please contact www.phoenixprocess.ie This week, we present the second piece from Tara O’Grady. Tara was a restaurateur who lost everything financially in recent times, following the closure of her business.

She has actively been seeking debt law reform to protect people’s homes, minds and lives for some time now. Having suffered from a stress-related disorder due to the pressures that were put upon her, she decided to put Tara O’Grady together a survival package for those suffering from debt despair. She is positive and proactive about dealing with the ramifications of debt, both on an individual and national level.

A friend in need?

WE must support each other... It can be completely overwhelming to face the paperwork end of things when it comes to debt, especially when massive personal losses have occurred. This is the time to reach out your hand to help your friend or family member.

We are in a temporary crisis situation; If you are not in difficulty, you can be sure someone you care for is. (Whether or not they are telling you about it, is another matter).

If you are concerned that someone close to you may be suffering from severe debt-related stress, please look for the signs - some examples include the following: 1. Isolation from social activity 2. Sleepless nights and or difficulty in sleeping with worry 3. Increased tension and or arguing over money issues 4. Fears about losing income and how to pay bills 5. Solicitors and debt collection letters arriving, phone calls or

OPINION Most cases happen in family home

Elder abuse where to turn FLORENCE HORSMAN–HOGAN Gazette columnist

I KNOW as a writer for various media outlets that many people expect me to be self-dramatising in any area I want to highlight. For me – the area of elder abuse has always been front and foremost of my work. While I’m an opinion writer – I’m also a nurse – and have actually sought training from the HSE in this field. In my field as a response to abuse trainer – abuses have been uncoverered.

In the homes of the HSE staff.

Various governmentts and State bodies have ignored this for so long – I wanted to become expert before I sought to comment. Now that I'm a specially trained trainer for the HSE on how to show our workers how to recognise and respond to elder abuse – there are

WE HAVE 146,000* READERS EACH WEEK *based on standard industry measurements

doorstep visits – concern about opening the mail or answering the telephone 6. Increased irritability and feelings of lack of self-worth 7. Increased drinking or smoking as a stress reliever 8. Asking family and friends for loans to help out 9. Cheques and bank payments being returned regularly 10. Surviving on an overdraft facility Severe stress from debt-related pressure is an extremely serious mental health issue. In recent times, Mental Health & Suicide Awareness organisations have been acknowledging just how serious this issue is becoming. Just as a limb can break, so can the mind if put under enough pressure. Once the signs have been noticed action can be taken, a management programme put in place and a recovery process begin.

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even more worrying and horrific facts that have come to my attention.

No matter how badly nursing homes and care facilities have been exposed/portrayed in the media – it's far worse in their own homes. It's conservativly estimated that 70% of abuse happens in the parent/significant other’s own home.

And here’s the crunch – even though social workers, public health workers and other family members might try to help them – if they don't want help – the abuse will continue – and there’s nothing anyone can do about it.

But the other thing is actually recognising the abuse. Granny/dad/sister no longer appears to have any money to go out. No money for make-up, cigs, new clothes. Excuses made for bruises, burns, scars.

If you were a 70–year–

old mother with a farm and one son, two daughters. The son manages the farm the daughters visit. Who are you going to pick if he’s hitting you or taking your pension?

You only have one son – don’t you?

If you’re a father with only one daughter – she says she's got finiancial problems – but you've given her all of your pension and now can’t afford new clothes – what are you going to pick?

What about if your husband has died and you’re a farmer’s wife? You have two or three daughters and a son or two. But you're nervous because they all fight. You turn to a favoured neighbour.

Your best friend. The solicitor comes in, you're confused as to what you should do, you've no one to talk to.

What do you do?.

First of all – do nothing.

Say something.

I’ve been there as a child, I know the importance of secrecy and shielding.

But finding someone you can trust is an oxymoron in Irish society – trust a social worker – hell yeah!

Ireland’s Health Service Executive (HSE) is investigating the 1,760 cases of elder abuse, with 477 of these reported in 2011. As there is no dedicated elder abuse officer in the southern region of Ireland the authority believe this figure is likely to be higher.

In the Executive’s annual elder abuse report, to be published next week, they will reveal that there were 2,046 referrals in 2010, which was up from 1,870 in 2009. It will show that neglect and financial abuse claims have risen by 14 percent and nine percent, respectively.

14 GAZETTE 7 July 2011

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY A milestone for Ceramide Gold Edited by Dawn Love

Artful Swatch: Rankin creates eight watches

THE never-ending love story between Swatch and art continues to delight followers of the popular Swiss brand with new creations from leading international artists. Famed British fashion photographer, Rankin, has created eight new watches in the classic Gent Original format to enrich the Swatch & Art Collection.

Launched at Carton House recently, five of the watches are presented in the form of a set in their own special packaging, available in a limited and numbered edition of 777 pieces. Three additional Gents, designed by the British photographer, are sold separately in unlimited editions and cost €45 each.

Talking about the range, Rankin said: “When Swatch approached me to design a range of watches, I was immensely flattered. Like so many people, my first watch was

I

a Swatch – it’s an iconic brand that holds such a special place in people’s hearts. So it was an exciting challenge to be given the opportunity to design a Swatch watch myself.”

Swatch have recently begun a partnership with Tower Jewellers in Blanchardstown, where a wide range of their pieces are now available.

T’S a cult classic, loved by a host of celebrities and, this August, Elizabeth Arden’s Ceramide Gold Ultra Restorative Capsules will celebrate its 21st anniversary.

To celebrate reaching this milestone, Elizabeth Arden are offering customers at every counter nationwide a complimentary skincare consultation and a sevenday trial of the capsules, with a discount voucher for the full-size product throughout August and September.

When Elizabeth Arden discovered the revolutionary Ceramides in August 1990, they created the first single-dose skincare capsules. Since then, Ceramide Gold Ultra Restorative Capsules have been delivering bio-engineered, skinidentical ceramides to the skin to leave a silky, smooth and glowing complexion, and work to restore the skin’s moisture barrier.

These capsules contain Borage Seed Extract to soothe and calm sensitive skin, and the antioxidant Vitamin E, which conditions the skin and protects it from environmental stress. They also contain retinyls,

Elizabeth Arden’s Ceramide Gold Ultra Restorative Capsules will celebrate its 21st anniversary

which are proven to be anti-aging by smoothing out lines and wrinkles, give an even-toned look

and help enhance natural collagen for a firmer look.

Ceramide Gold Ultra

Restorative Capsules are available at Boots and Elizabeth Arden counters nationwide.

Get radiant, kissable lips for summer THIS summer, radiant, kissable lips are a must-have. Pink is the new red this season and gorgeous, bright lips makes you stand out from the crowd. So, why not try a Rouge D’Armani Hot Summer 2011 Limited Edition lipstick?

These vibrant lipsticks’ patented Color-FilTM technology gives each shade 360 degrees of lasting radiance. The secret lies in the Color bond polymer, which traps refined pigments and intensifies and retains the colour’s radiance for over six

hours. With six bright shades of pink to choose from, there is one to suit every look.

Rouge d’Armani Hot lipsticks have innovative, new-generation pearlescent fine particles called Light Reflecting Tints. These particles can be incorporated into lipstick at a higher concentration than standard pearlescent particles, and give off a greater reflective sheen.

So, as you step out into the sun, you can flaunt your brighter, vibrant pink lips.

Rouge D’Armani Hot Summer 2011 Limited Edition lipstick

7 July 2011 GAZETTE 15

SNAPSHOT The stories of the day

B&Q’s fundraiser for Youth Work Ireland Home store giants B&Q teamed up with its official charity partner, Youth Work Ireland, recently and arranged a cycling fundraising event in stores, appropriately called B&Q Bike It! B&Q Swords accepted the challenge and took part in a sponsored cycle for Youth Work Ireland on Saturday, June 18 last at Airside Retail Park in Swords.

Children from the Swords Youth Service participated in the cycle and also collected donations on behalf of Youth Work Ireland.

Staff members in B&Q Swords would like to say a big thank you to everyone who participated and helped raise a fantastic €608.42 for Youth Work Ireland.

Noeleen O’Gorman, from B&Q Swords, said: “We loved every minute of our B&Q Bike

DIARY It! event. It is great that such a fun event like a bike ride has helped raise lots of money for such an important cause.”

Patrick Burke, CEO of Youth Work Ireland said: “We are delighted that B&Q is supporting Youth Work Ireland by organising its own Bike It! events. Each euro raised helps us work with more young people to build better, brighter futures.”

Film Fatale THE Sugar Club will be transformed into a 1950’s Little Italy for a screening of the perfect classic summer film, Roman Holiday, on Saturday, August 6.

Join the young and radiant Audrey Hepburn as princess Ann who breaks free from her regal duties to spend the day frolicking in Rome with handsome reporter Joe Bradley (Gregory Peck). Eat gelato on the Spanish Steps; place your hand in the mouth of truth, hop on a Vespa and ride around this vibrant city.

All from the comfort of your seat as you enjoy pizza, wine and other Italian delights.

The screening will be followed by a Italian-themed after-party with live performances and Film Fatale’s resident DJs, The Andrews Sisters’ Brothers, who will play music from the era.

The audience is invited to set the scene by dressing up in their vintage finest, paying homage to 1950’s Italian style or mirroring the characters.

Tickets are €15 and are available at www.tickets.ie. Doors open at 8pm. After-party from 11pm with tickets at the door (€5).

Gazette Contacts Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 6010240 Fax: 01 6010251

Managing Director: Liam Holland email: lholland@gazettegroup.com General Manager: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com

Wing it to Bray

Advertising Production: Anita Ward email: ads@gazettegroup.com

TENS of thousands of spectators are expected to gather along Ireland’s east coast on Sunday, July 24, for the country’s largest free air show – the Air Spectacular as part of Bray Summerfest.

During the 140-minute aerial show, spectators will be treated to close formation aerobatics, beach parachuting, search and rescue demonstrations at sea, pirouette spins, knife edge rolls and nose-down spiral descents.

More information around the Air Spectacular is available from www.airspectacular.com or www.braysummerfest.com

Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com

Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

16 GAZETTE 7 July 2011

GazetteMUSIC MUSIC A new power soul revelation from Janelle Q ROB HEIGH

LAST week, before Glastonbury drew everyone’s attention to the fields of Worthy Farm, the Guardian published a rare and surprisingly revealing interview with my personal musical hero, Prince.

The normally reclusive and press-averse megastar spoke, albeit briefly, about his favourite current artists. He called out two by name.

One was Adele. The other was Janelle Monae.

When the Minneapolis maestro speaks, you know it’s time to listen up.

Her show at Tripod last week was a perfect illustration of a brave new artist on the brink of much wider success, with her roots and influences squarely apparent and fully on show wonderful covers of Prince, Stevie Wonder, the Jackson 5 and Sly and the Family Stone in the mix with her own already impressive material and a live band so well-drilled and on the mark that they were a huge part of the show, as much as Janelle herself.

So much so that the theatrical aspects of this “emotion picture”, on top of some of the best future funk/soul you are likely to hear, made for one of the most mesmerising shows to hit Dublin for a long time, and probably for a long time to come.

After the bandleader had us call Janelle to the stage, the infectious energy and apparent joy of playing instantly transferred to the crowd as soon as the band broke in to Dance Or Die - an appropriate opener, because if you didn’t dance during the show, you probably were dead. That buzz did not flag until even after the main show, when the assembled ArchOrchestra returned to the stage for a hugely-deserved curtain call.

In between, Janelle’s vibrant and powerful soul voice weaved it’s way around Tripod, capturing all in its wake, as the band - made up of a string quartet, brass section, guitar, bass, keys, backing singers, dancers, MC, and drummer - put on a polished, soul revue-style performance that was utterly entrancing.

HerArchAndroid was one of the best records of last year, and this live show will go down as one of the best of 2011.

Janelle promised at the end that they would be back - when she does return, don’t miss it.

Janelle Monae: The live show of the year

Get festival ready: Comfort and style at Tesco THE sun is set to be out at Oxegen next week and Tesco have a wide range of essentials for festival-goers, from special offers on air-beds and sleeping bags, tents from only €28, and other camping essentials such as a LED head-torch for €7.75. As well as these, there is an array of health and beauty basics, such as baby wipes, Tresemme’s waterless foam shampoo for €4, and a range of festival chic clothing with everything from sunglasses, hats and wellies to floral maxi dresses from €23.

REVIEW: NEW RELEASES FROM TWO HEROES OF AMERICAN MUSIC

Nicks and Simon show time’s right for renewal Q ROB HEIGH

FOR as long as I can remember, there has been an album by Simon and Garfunkel or Fleetwood Mac around somewhere.

My parents loved both, and I remember well the sounds of voices in harmony coming from the record player as they played Rumours and Bookends.

Of course, the approaches of the two acts could not have been any more different: Fleetwood Mac’s driving American rock, propelled by Mick Fleetwood’s hard-hitting drum sound and John McVie’s rolling bass; compared to the whispered incantations of Paul and Art, underpinned with their deep love of the folk tradition, as well as the rock’n’roll roots that bore their partnership.

While Stevie Nicks, the epic and distinct voice of Fleetwood Mac for most of the Seventies, took on solo duties away from Mac when she realised there were avenues she couldn’t pursue within the confines and conflicting demands of

Two different results from two new releases from Stevie Nicks and Paul Simon

the band, Paul Simon was a solo act for the majority of that decade, and the decades since.

Both released what were classic albums in the Eighties, with Bella Donna and Graceland still up there with some of the most memorable and iconic music of that decade.

Now, more than 20 years on, both Nicks and Simon have released new records this month, and it’s interesting to compare progressions and passage into new stages of their respective careers.

Nicks has brought on board uber-producer and former Eurythmic, Dave Stewart, to helm her latest release, In Your Dreams.

His hand at the tiller has given Nicks another wall-of-sound production that fits with her unique, and sometimes achingly beautiful, voice.

Having both Mick Fleetwood and Lyndsey Buckingham on board for two of the tracks adds a certain frisson to proceedings, given Nicks’ sometimes tumultous relationship with her former Mac mates.

But, in the end, the record is simply a Stevie Nicks’ record. There are no huge leaps of faith, no career redefining changes of direction. It is just what it is, and that’s a shame, as this was surely an opportunity to do something a little more left-field and appeal to a whole new generation.

Paul Simon’s So Beautiful Or So What, equally, is no huge leap forward.

What it is, however, is a grand statement of an artist doing what he does best — lyrics that demand a second listen, and reference to the liner notes

because they are simply so good that they work as poetry, and music that wraps you up in bouncing guitar figures and African rythyms that propel you back to highpoints of Simon’s solo career, while moving forward with reflection and sensitivity.

Tracks like The Afterlife and Love and Hard Times are immersive and great fun, grooves and words and melodies weaving into your consciousness and leaving enough hooks to make you listen again, and again.

7 July 2011 GAZETTE 17

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

DEALING WITH BAD NEWS: ADVICE TO HELP PREPARE FOR THE DEATH OF YOUR FAMILY PET

Coping with the death of your pet EATH is one of the most difficult things you will ever explain to a child.

So, when confronted by the owners of a deceased cat who asked: “How will we explain the cat’s death to our daughter?”

The following was my advice.

When a pet dies, it may be the first experience a child has when it comes to coping with death.

As their parent, you will be the best judge as to how much information your child can handle and I would advise you to keep in mind, at this stage, that the child may also worr y that other beloved members of their family will also die.

However, trying to protect them by saying the pet ran away may cause them to expect the animal to return.

Expressing your own grief and encouraging your child to express theirs will help them understand it’s ok to be sad.

This will enable them work through their feelings.

As a mom, I believe a child’s ability to understand what death is all about depends on his/ her cognitive development and emotional environment; not to mention the way you explain situations.

Remember, the older the child the more he/ she understands.

D

For example: Under 5: The child will certainly miss the pet but only as a playmate – recently my grand-daughter’s goldfish, Nemo, died and although she missed feeding him and helping her mom change his water, she didn’t actually miss him because she loved him. She missed the routine of caring for him.

Up to 10: Explain to your child exactly what “death” means. Tell them gently and honestly that their pet’s body has stopped working and will not work anymore and that the pet had to be helped to die peacefully and without any pain or suffering.

Don’t use the term “put to sleep”, as children may confuse death with sleeping and this may trigger sleeping problems for your child.

Over 10/Teens: The child now realises people and pets die and will go through the normal stages of grieving.

However, sometimes this loss can trigger other problems such as poor concentration at school, anxiety, insecurity or certain juvenile behaviours, so it’s important to engage in open and honest conversation with your child regarding his/her pet’s death.

Never blame the vet.

Your child may grow up to resent the good work veterinarians and other animal and human care

givers provide.

Now we’ve got your kids sorted, what about you? How does mom cope?

When a pet dies, people may consider offering support as being inappropriate because they view the loss as “just a pet.”

Here at the Dublin SPCA we believe nothing could be further from the truth.

We love our pets and consider them as family.

Lots of people celebrate their pets’ birthdays, buy them presents and carry their pictures in wallets, purses, on mobile ‘phones, even posting them on social sites like Facebook.

Therefore, when a pet dies, we understand it’s normal to feel over whelmed by the intensity of your sorrow; after all, haven’t they provided you with emotional support and unconditional love?

The grieving process is as individual as the person. Sometimes it begins with denial, sometimes anger; often guilt - What did I do?

Should I have done more? Is it inappropriate to feel so upset?

When these feelings subside, true sadness may set in.

Acceptance will only occur when you begin to remember the animal with decreasing sadness.

Here are a few tips to help you cope.

Acknowledge your grief and give yourself permission to grieve.

When a pet dies, it may be the first experience a child has when it comes to coping with death

Reach out to those who can lend a helping, compassionate, hand.

Write down your feelings. (Compose a poem or write a story or a letter to your pet) Call your local animal shelter or vet to see if they can offer a helpline to a pet loss support group.

Arrange a memorial for your pet.

For those pet parents who have lost a pet and who are coping with this scenario at present, I understand how you feel.

Your companion may be gone from your life but never from your heart.

When you are ready, (and please do give yourself enough time to grieve), only then should you introduce a new companion into your life – and don’t worry, it’s not a betrayal to love another pet; your compassion and humanity to give a loving home to a deserving animal is to your eternal credit.

For more information, log onto www.dspca.ie or email me at miriam. kerins@dspca.ie

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18 GAZETTE 7 July 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs KOPING JOINS THE CITROEN NETWORK: CITROEN Motors Ireland is delighted to welcome Koping, Naas Road, Dublin 12 to the Citroen dealer network. Headed up by Paul Mooney, Koping have been in business since 1992 operating from the same site on the Naas Road throughout this time. With an experienced and stable team, (Paddy Lynam, service manager, has been with Paul since the start) Koping have brought service and expert product knowledge to customers for nearly 20 years. The strategic addition of Koping to the Citroen dealer network strengthens Citroen’s brand presence in the key Dublin area.

Skoda provides the option of Greenline technology, with an economical 1.6-litre turbo-diesel engine in the big Superb Estate. The car costs from €25,895, plus delivery charges, and is ranked as the most economical big estate car on the market.

Skoda goes Greenline MICHAEL MORONEY has been on the road with the big

Superb estate car, where comfort meets economy SKODA’S Greenline range includes the big Superb Estate, and that was the car that I took to the roads in recent weeks. The Superb is a giant of a car, both in terms of seating space and boot space. And what a new surprise to learn that you can also get Greenline economy with the Superb that gives exceptional motoring value.

That probably sums up how I felt after a week with the Skoda Superb Estate. Skoda is aiming for economy as a priority – that shines through in the Greenline version of the Superb. Here is a giant of a car, fitted with

SPECS: SKODA SUPERB GREENLINE ESTATE 1.6 TDI Top speed: 109km/hr 0-100km/hr:12.6 secs Economy: 22.7 km/litre (4.4 l/100km) CO2 emissions: 114g km Road Tax Band: A (€104) Warranty: 2 years Entry Price: €25,895

a 1.6-litre turbo-diesel engine.

But, there’s a whole lot more to the Superb Greenline than just a tidy, small engine. While the economical 1.6-litre tur-

bo-diesel engine is a significant part of the story, there’s a lot more to this car besides economy.

The key to its impressive economy figure of 22km/litre of diesel (64mpg) claim is that Skoda uses five new technology options to get the end result. They are startstop, gear shift indicator, new aerodynamics, lowrolling resistance tyres and brake energy regeneration.

The start-stop system automatically switches off the engine when stationary. The engine immediately restarts when the driver presses the clutch to put the car in gear.

The gear shift indicator lets the driver know if the current gear is appropriate. It recommends changing to a lower or higher gear to achieve optimum engine speed, thereby attaining lower fuel consumption.

Aero-dynamics

The modified aerodynamics means that the car sits some 25mm lower to the road, a feature that is designed to reduce wind drag. And, the low rolling resistance with higher than normal air pressure gives extra economy.

And, lastly, Skoda uses a brake-energ y

regeneration process to generate electrical energy every time that you hit the brakes. The fact that battery energy is generated when the car decelerates reduces the burden placed on the engine by the alternator.

The downside is that, in the efforts to improve economy, Skoda is supplying a tyre-repair kit in place of the spare wheel. That bit does not impress me, as I consider that, in a car such as thi,s and with our miserable roads, a spare wheel is simply an essential.

Despite the relatively small engine size, it still produces 105bhp. That

gives an acceleration figure of 12.6 seconds for a 0 to 100km/hr dash, which is 20% slower than the 2.0 litre competition.

In practise, the car can accelerate well, and it’s not the type of car that makes you want to behave like a boy-racer.

So, it’s just about poweradequate and practical, as well as economical.

The big bonus is the economy figure – the claim is 22km/litre (4.4 litres/100km) which I failed to achieve. Maybe I wasn’t following the g e a r i n d i c a t o r we l l enough, but, overall, I returned a figure closer to 20% poorer. I’ll just have to do better!

Orders to open for Audi’s new and efficient Q3 SUV THE NEW Audi Q3 is Audi’s first foray into the smaller SUV segment, while attempting to retain a premium image. Orders for the third, and smallest, Q-model in the series will begin at the end of August with deliveries due by October.

The Q3 will have the distinction of being the first Audi SUV to offer the efficiency-focused option of a 19.1km/litre (54mpg) front-wheel-

drive variant. Pricing for the Q3 starts at €34,650 on the road for the 2.0-litre TDI 140 SE version, which is expected to account for the majority of orders.

Four engines will initially be available, all combining direct fuel injection with turbo charging. They will come with start-stop and energy recuperation systems. The 2.0-litre TDI is rated at 140bhp and 177bhp

and the 2.0-litre TFSI petrol unit in 170bhp and 211bhp power outputs.

The 2.0-litre TDI 140bhp unit will power the front-wheel-drive model only at launch, with a Quattro version joining the offer early in 2012.

With emissions of just 133g/km, the 2.0-litre TDI 140 variant resides in tax band B, qualifying the purchaser for annual road tax of just €156 per annum.

The Audi Q3 will be available for order next month

7 July 2011 GAZETTE 19

20 GAZETTE 7 July 2011

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY MALAHIDE: THREE-BEDROOM ACCOMMODATION FOR €310,000

Mid-terrace manor in Malahide

Number 44, Carriglea Gardens

DUN LAOGHAIRE: TWOBED HOME FOR €285,000

Carriglea living for home seekers GUNNE Residential are presenting No. 44 Carriglea Gardens, Dun Laoghaire, a twobedroom modernised and extended two-bathroom mid-terrace property to the market for €285,000.

The property boasts a bright, modern interior and is complemented by a mature private rear garden.

The property extends to 70 sq m and comprises entrance porch with Chinese slate floor, lounge/dining room that overlooks the front garden, and which has a timber floor, a feature fireplace with gas fire and recessed lighting.

The first bathroom has fully tiled walls and floor, a bath with Triton T80si power shower, a wash-hand basin with vanity mirror and wc.

The kitchen overlooks the rear garden and has an ample range of built-in wall and floor units, as well as a tiled floor and part tiled walls.

It features a built-in oven, a hob and extractor, single bowl and half Franke sink. It is plumbed for a washing machine and dishwasher, and there is a door to the rear garden.

The bedrooms are to the front and rear of the property, with built-in wardrobes, timber floorboards and recessed lighting, and one is en suite.

To the front of the property is a gated, paved front garden providing off-street parking.

The suntrap rear garden is very large, a private, low-maintenance space bordered by mature hedges and shrubs. The patio areas are bordered by railway sleepers and are perfect for outdoor dining. The two Barna sheds provide excellent studio, or additional storage space.

To arrange a viewing, contact Gunne Residential on 01 280 1719.

PROPERTYTeam Noel Kelly Auctioneers are bringing No. 66, Inbhir Ide, Malahide to the market for an asking price of €310,000.

This instantly appealing three-bedroom midterrace home has been lavished with care and attention by its present owners, which is evident from the moment you walk in the front door.

The main features of the property are Upvc double-glazed windows, a 72-foot rear garden which is not overlooked.

There are decorative timber floors, and the property is sold with all carpets, curtains and light fittings Situated in a prime

Number 66, Inbhir Ide, Malahide, is presented to the market for €310,000

location, the property comprises a porch with an aluminium sliding door and tiled floor, an entrance hall with understair storage area.

The lounge has a decorative timber floor, as well as a feature fireplace with

hardwood surround.

T he kitchen-cumbreakfast area has a tiled floor, oak floor and wall units, as well as a cooker, dishwasher, extractor fan, and recessed lighting.

The bathroom has tiled walls and flooring,

a whb, wc, and a Triton shower. There is also a mirror with light strip.

The three bedrooms are well appointed and have decorative timber floors and recessed lights.

The rear garden is 72ft

long, with a timber shed, a patio area, and an outside tap and external lighting.

For further details, and to arrange a viewing appointment, contact Noel Kelly on (01) 846 2752.

RATHMINES: ASKING PRICE OF €510,000 FOR THREE-BED HOUSE

Attractive family home in Rathmines NEW to the market is No. 18 Rathmines Park, Dublin 6, a mid-terrace period residence, incroporating c1,310 sq ft accommodation, which is set in spacious, wellcared for gardens, with the added benefit of garage to the rear with vehicular access from Stone Mews.

Brought to the market by Douglas Newman Good, for an asking price of €510,000, the property has been excellently cared for over many years by its present ow ners, full of light with room to extend, subject to planning permission, the property is in an ideal location in this soughtafter area of south Dublin.

The accommodation is well laid out and comprises lounge, livingroom with open

fireplace and gas fire, breakfast room with extended kitchen, upstairs are three bedrooms, bathroom and large attic room ideally suited for a study, playroom, etc.

This sale represents an ideal opportunity for those wishing to trade up or trade down in this area. It provides all the facilities and amenities required for a young couple wishing to rear a family in this area.

It is situated in a quiet peaceful enclave off Upper Rathmines Road where houses rarely come to the market.

T he proper ty is a short walk to Rathmines village, where there is a wide selection of shops, restaurants and bars, cinemas, Rathmines Plaza and other amenities.

A host of buses pass

through the village and the property is within walking distance of the Luas line.

There is a variety of sports facilities in the immediate area, parks to include Belgrave Square and Palmerston Park and a wide selection of primary and secondary schools, including Kildare Place, St Mary’s, Alexandra College, Gonzaga, St Louis, and many others besides.

The city centre is within walking distance and the property is a short drive from the M50.

Alternatively it is also suitable for a retired family where everything is within walking distance yet the setting is off the main road, idyllic and peaceful.

Douglas Newman Good are handling the sale and can be contacted to arrange a viewing on Number 18, Rathmines Park, Dublin 6, has an asking 490 9000. price of €510,000

7 July 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS Interview: Jessica Daves, a Duty Manager at Newpark School Sports Centre

Life in busy Sports and Leisure Centre AFTER starting her career in the Leisure industry as a gymnastics coach, Jessica Davies has been a Duty Manager at Newpark School Sports Centre since 2002. She is married with two children (three-year-old twins) and lives in Wexford having moved there from Deansgrange earlier this year.

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS MEDICAL CARDS I RECEIVE a great many queries from people all over County Dublin, and beyond, about their eligibility for Medical Cards. Obviously, it would not be possible for me to answer them all individually and, indeed, it would be difficult to briefly summarise the qualifying conditions, but let me try and simplify the structure.

Habits She recently qualified as a GP referral co-ordinator, a new initiative launched by the HSE to get GPs to refer clients to affiliated Leisure centres to improve their lifestyle habits rather than the option of long-term medication. Newpark School Sports Centre, one of very few facilities offering this new scheme in Ireland, is located on Newtownpark Avenue, in Blackrock, and has been open to the public since 1973. Activities include a wide range of fitness classes, public swimming, fitness centre sessions with tailor-made programmes to suit all ages and levels of fitness.

Medical Card applicants are divided into 2 categories – those under 70 and over 70.

OVER 70 You qualify if your gross income, from all sources, is less than €700 per week for a single person, or €1,400 per week for a married or co-habiting couple. It is the gross income that is taken into consideration and no standard deductions such as income tax are allowable.

UNDER 70 To qualify, your weekly income must be below a certain figure for your family size. Cash

Interest Jessica’s interest in health and fitness began when she qualified as a fitness instructor in 2001 and then a personal trainer in 2002. She currently teaches Aqua-aerobics, swimming and fitness classes, along with co-ordinating the GP referral programme.

income, savings over a certain threshold, investments and property (except for your family home) are taken into account in the means test.

If you wish to establish your eligibility, or if you feel that your application for a medical card was unfairly rejected, you can check out

Contact If you would like to learn more about the activities and facilities on offer at Newpark School Sports Centre, or for more information on the GP referral programme, call in to see them or visit theiir website www.newparksportscentre.ie.

all the parameters on www.citizensinformation.ie or call to one of the many Citizens Information offices which are located throughout the country. Alternatively your local social welfare office ( www.welfare.ie ) you will find Jessica Davies qualified as a GP referral co-ordinator

most helpful in dealing with any of these individual queries.

Q&A

Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at

Q: When you were a kid, what did you want to be?

A: Olympic gymnast.

Q: What was your first job?

A: Summer camp helper.

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: The Grange.

Q: When did you start your present job?

A: Started gymnastics here in 1991 and have been here since!

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: Get to wear tracksuits and runners to work.

Q: What part of your working day do you ‘delegate’?

A: Not enough.

Q: What sport do you follow?

A: Gymnastics and Formula 1.

Q: What sport can you play?

A: All sports.

Q: What is your guilty music/TV or movie pleasure?

A: Disney films.

Q: Who best represents modern Ireland – David Norris or Jedward?

A: Jedward, as they have the fun factor.

Q: What music/pictures/ movies do you have on your iPod/iPad? A: Don’t know, my brother robbed it.

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: No, I’m not a stalker.

Q: What was your last Tweet/status update?

A: My curfew was the street

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the

A: The Disney Store.

director of Money Doctor

lights coming on, my mum didn’t call my mobile, she yelled my name, I played outside, not online. If I didn’t eat what my mum cooked then I didn’t eat.

Sanitisers didn’t exist, but you could get your mouth washed out with soap. I rode a bike with no helmet, getting dirty was OK, and the neighbours cared as much as your parents did. Repost if you drank water from the garden hose and survived.

runners.

Q: Describe your dream meal?

dives.

A: Sausages, beans and mash in a volcano shape made by my dad.

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: Being a trainer on the Big-

Q: Who would you rather have dinner with – Enda Kenny or Dame Edna?

A: Dame Edna.

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: Don’t own any shoes, just Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: Having to use public toi-

Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing

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lets in China.

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: Water Villa in the Mal-

gest Loser.

Q: What do you plan to do when you retire?

A: Travel.

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CALL 60 10 240

22 GAZETTE 7 July 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL LovelyLisbon Magnificent Madeira is not a typical sun holiday PORTUGUESE HAVEN: OPEN FOR BUSINESS

The Pestana Palace in Lisbon

Living like royalty at the Pestana Palace in Lisbon

PAUL HOSFORD

PAUL HOSFORD

THERE is not a whole lot that makes me selfconscious about my appearance. I’m a handsome man, after all.

But, standing in the lobby of a national monument palace that’s been turned into a five-star hotel and member of The Leading Hotels of the World in a tatty pair of three-quarter lengths and a t-shirt that’s seen better days, is one time I will admit to feeling a little uncomfortable.

To be fair, I had travelled from Madeira that morning in sweltering heat, and the Pestana Palace in Lisbon would make anyone but Madonna feel self-conscious.

Which is good, as she uses the hotel’s royal suites when she’s in the Portuguese capital.

The beautifully-restored palace adjoins two modern wings and is a stunning piece of architecture. Nineteenth-century elegance abounds with dining rooms and drawing rooms making this feel like something completely other-worldly.

The hotel itself runs a shuttle bus to take guests the 10-minute drive into the centre of Lisbon, but a taxi is only €6.

Once in the city itself, I was in awe. Beautiful architecture, such as Praca do Comercio, a jaw-dropping square on the banks of the Tagus, whose Rua Augusta Arch is the gateway to the modern, thriving city that Lisbon has become.

Avenida da Liberdade, a 90-metre wide boulevard, features some beautiful buildings and is the central artery heading into the city. At its head is Marquis of Pombal Square and King Edward VII Park, two celebrations of Portuguese identity that, perched upon a hill, give a gorgeous view of the Tagus bay.

The Belem area of the city, near the mouth of the Tagus, is another gem.

Quiet and relaxed, it features some of the most stunning buildings Lisbon has to offer.

Belem Tower, a 16th-century defence tower, Jeronimos Monastery and the Monument of The Discoveries all sit within a short walk of each other, making this part of the city a walking dream and an history buffs heaven.

LAST year was a year to forget for Madeira.

Freak flooding, forest fires and Icelandic ash combined to make last year an annus horribilis for the Portuguese island, located 1,000km from the south-west coast of the country.

But, this year, the island is keen to send a message, echoing our own leader, that Madeira is open for business.

And what a business it truly is.

Though it survives on an economy that is roughly 65% based on tourism, Madeira is unlike a typical sun-holiday destination.

Part of that is because the location of the island, parked in the Atlantic, means that it gets more cloud than, say, the Canaries.

But more than that, it is just, at its core, completely

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

‘Visually stunning, warm and welcoming, Madeira is a real treat for someone looking for good weather, and seeking to avoid neon lights and flying patio furniture’

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

different.

Visually stunning, architecturally mind-blowing, warm and welcoming, Madeira is a real treat for someone looking for good weather, and seeking to avoid neon lights and flying patio furniture.

Touching down in Funchal itself is an experience – the runway perched over the sea and on the side of a cliff makes this a breathtaking landing. Nervous fliers would do well to avoid the window seat, however.

What to do

Our stay had us based

in Funchal, the capital of the island and main tourist hub. From here, any part of the island is reachable within two hours and it is a good thing, as all of the island holds attractions.

Rota dos CetáceosThe Way of the Cetacean, (Marina Shopping Centre, Avenida Arriaga, Tel.: +351 291 280 600, http://www.rota-doscetaceos.pt/) offer trips on semi-solid boats, where you can view dolphins, whales and all of the assorted sea life that lives in and around the island. (Swimming with dolmi phins €65, Adult ph non-swimming no €48, children €4 €33) €3 Madeira, having no contiin nental shelf, is n home to a vast h array of these a

Finding some shade to relax in in the centre of Funchal

creatures and Rota dos Cetáceos offer a free trip if you don’t see something.

The thrill of seeing a pod of Bottle-nosed dolphins swim yards from your boat makes this trip a must-do.

The Madeira Cable Car (www.madeiracablecar. com) offers a relatively cheap way to get a birdseye view of the beautiful scenery on the island, connecting Funchal with Monte Palace Gardens.

At €15 for an adult round-trip, the exhilarating ride will leave speechless and some clinging to the handrails.

Once you reach the top of the cable car, Monte Palace (http://www.montepalace.com/) awaits in all it’s splendour. Rescued

by Jose Berardo, the tropical gardens are a dream for gardening enthusiasts.

You can take the cable car back to Funchal, but why do that when you can have two men with rubber shoes push you down a hill in a wicker chair?

Toboggan rides operate from outside Monte Church and, though pricey (€20 single, €25 double), it is great fun and, after all, you are on vacation.

After all, what’s a holiday without hurtling downhill on a road that’s open to traffic?

Getting off-road,

Madeira Jeep Safari (http://www.madeirajeep-safari.info/) are experts in navigating the tight, heart-stopping roads of the island’s lesser-seen spots. A highlight of these tours are the levada walks.

Levadas are roadside waterways that carry water to the farms that climb mountains and hills on the island.

Taking a walk along one, one really gets the chance to see how people on the island live; indeed, we came across one woman, easily 70 years old, planting on a small farm that was at least 40 minutes walk from a roadway.

Prices vary, but a halfday private tour will cost €195, with room for six passengers, and I cannot recommend this enough, for something different.

There are more attractions of course, The Blandy’s Wine Lodge in Funchal, the stunning natural swimming pools in Porto Moniz, the Art Deco collection at Casa Das Mudas and the awe-inspiring scenes

7 July 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 23

Edited by Mimi Murray

Travel Briefs

New digitallyenhanced food lovers guide to Ireland

Madeira is famous for its embroidery

From Funchal, any part of the island of Madeira is reachable within two hours, so places like the Ponta do Sol and São Vicente can be explored

from Cabo Girao, the second highest sea cliff in Europe.

In a space of 57 kilometres by 22 kilometres, Madeira packs it in.

Where to eat

Madeiran food itself consists of a lot of fish, which makes sense, it being an island. Black scabbard, tuna and cod are served in abundance and fresh, colourful vegetables abound.

In the centre of Funchal, Armazem Do Sal (Rua da Alfandega, 135, Funchal, Madeira 9000059, Portugal (+351) 291 241 285 www.armazemdosal.com/) stands head and shoulders above the other restaurants we sampled. Which, given the level of food available across the island, is saying something.

A platter of appetisers, comprising of caviar, passion fruit, duck breast and shrimp dishes, set the tone magnificently, before a starter of Foie Gras and apple chutney had me in heaven.

A main of cod confit and mash was perfect.

Light, yet absolutely flavoursome and cooked to perfection.

Were the dessert of raspberry panacotta with spun sugar not also absolutely amazing, I might have struggled to finish the whole thing. As it was, we had no such problem.

Adega da Quinta is about 15 minutes outside the centre of Funchal, but the scenic views and hearty, rustic food make it a perfect choice for an evening meal.

Espetada, a local dish of fillet beef on a skewer, barbecue chicken in a pot, sweet potato bread and an array of desserts combined to make this another gastronomic highlight of the island.

Where to stay

The island is replete with fabulous hotels, with three being part of Portugal’s largest hotel group, Pestana.

We stayed in the Pestana Casino Hotel, which is a luxurious throwback

to the glamour of travel.

Designed in the 1960s

by Oscar Niemayer, it’s bright, open spacess Travelling by wicker chair: Tobo ggan rides operate outside Monte Ch from urch in Funchal are suited to everyone, the health spa a perfect retreat for stressed bodies and the casino offers a chance to experience the glamour of Twomileborris. Sorry, Monte Carlo.

All in all, I can’t recommend Madeira enough.

Easygoing enough to offer a break, interesting enough to offer stories for home, Madeira is open for business and we’re luckier for that fact.

Paul travelled to Madeira and Lisbon with Concorde Travel & Tours. Concorde Travel specialise in the Mediterranean, specifically Croatia, Cyprus, Malta, Italy and Portugal.

Seven nights in Madeira start at €560pp, including tax, and seven-night packages to Lisbon Coast start at €599pp, including tax. For more information, visit www.concordetravel.ie, or call 01-77 59 300.

Praça Municipio in Funchal

Fresh food at Funchal’s The beautiful Porto Santo Beach

municipal market

GOOD Food Ireland once again leads the way with a new digitally enhanced food lovers’ guide to Ireland.

You will find a carefully selected collection of the best places to visit that are committed to using local Irish food on a new touring guide being released this weekend. The guide reveals a range of the best culinary experiences from restaurants, pubs, cafes, hotels and cookery schools, all centred on an Irish ingredient-led food experience.

Taking on board new technology, Good Food Ireland has digitally enhanced the guide with the use of QR codes. Each culinary destination listed has a QR code beside their contact details and, when a smartphone user scans the code, a local Google map is displayed on their mobile device.

The guide is on release this weekend and will be distributed in some national newspapers, the Hertz rental car network and through Good Food Ireland members.

If you would like your own personal copy, simply email the Good Food Ireland head office info@goodfoodireland.ie and they will post one out to you.

For more information on Good Food Ireland, visit www. goodfoodireland.ie

24 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 7 July 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1

GoingOUT GoingOUT

THE HELIX 01 700 7000 Liz Taylor Film Season

THE Helix continues its Liz Taylor Film Season until July 16, with the season’s second film, National Velvet, showing on Saturday July 9 at 2pm, followed by Cat On A Hot Tin Roof on Wednesday July 13 at 7.30pm.

All screenings take place in The Theatre. Season tickets are €20, or €12 concession. Entry to each showing is €4/€6.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340

Dun Laoghaire School of Music extravaganza LOOKING ahead a little, The Mill Theatre will soon feature some delightful music and performances from some of the area’s littlest citizens – with big talents Students from the Dun Laoghaire School of Music staging a musical extravaganza at the popular south Dublin evenue on Thursday, July 14, featuring music, theatre, dance and instrumental numbers, and more, creating a musical performance to remember, and showcasing the truly diverse and commendable range of talents of students at the popular school. The show starts at 5.30pm, with tickets priced at €13/€8.50.

PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929

Cormuin O’Raghallaigh - Mozart and Chopin recital Come along to this unique recital of Mozart and Chopin classics, from the award-winning Cormuin O Raghallaigh,a local teacher for Newpark Music Centre and Churchtown School of music. Recitals for the night will include Mozart: Sonata in C minor K.457, Sonata in B flat K.333, Chopin: Prelude in D flat Op. 28 (Raindrop) Ballade no.3 in A flat Op. 47. The two-hour show takes place on Saturday, July 9 at 1pm. Tickets: €10

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Past and Present

Dublin 15-based artist, Desmond Kenny’s exhibition Past and Present, which opened last month, will continue until late August. Don’t miss this opportunity to view some of Kenny’s stunning abstract paintings, spread across two floors - New Work and Retrospective. This is the Hartstown artist’s first major solo exhibition of his abstract painting. The exhibition can be seen on the ground and first-floor galleries and is free admission.

SEAMUS ENNIS CULTURAL CENTRE 01 802 0898 Pokey LaFarge and The South City Three St. Louis roots musician Pokey LaFarge, along with his band, The South City Three, comes to the Seamus Ennis Cultural Centre on Friday July 8. LaFarge’s creative blend of early jazz, string ragtime, country blues and western swing has been widely lauded of late. This is one not to be missed. Friday, July 8 at 8:30pm. Admission: €20.

Sunday Sessions The Sunday Sessions continue every Sunday afternoon at the Seamus Ennis Cultural centre. The sessions always feature a host of local traditional musicians as well as some special guests. All musicians are welcome.

Free admission.

If you’re close enough to see one of these Transformers, you’re either in very big trouble, or just in luck, as Transformers 3 features one big scrap after another between clanking adversaries, while Humanity – and audiences – look on ...

No change in formula The latest Transformers film hasn’t changed the previous films’ secret of success, loaded with big bangs and little wit Q JONATHAN KEANE

IT’S only been about four years, but in that fairly short space of time, Michael Bay has managed to churn out his third Transformers film, this time: Dark of the Moon.

After the blinding success of the predecessor, it only makes sense for the franchise to do a third lap.

A heady cast is in tow for this one, with John Malkovich, Hugo Weaving and Josh Duhamel along with, of course, our central character, Sam Witwicky, brought to us

by Shia LeBeouf.

The important thing to remember here is that this is a Michael Bay flick so there’s little in the way of a captivating script and acting.

But, it can’t be denied that Dark of the Moon is rife with jaw-dropping special effects and 3D shots that well and truly

FILM OF THE WEEK: Transformers 3 +++ (12A) 154 mins Director: Michael Bay Starring: Shia LaBeouf, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, Josh Duhamel, John Malkovich, Hugo Weaving, lots of robots

OUR VERDICT: MICHAEL Bay’s third outing with the robots in disguise is everything one would expect it to be, with colossal action scenes and hugely impressive special effects. If verbose carnage is your thing and it holds your attention for the entire bloated running time, then, this could be your film of the year, although Kate – who returns from holiday, next week – is unlikely to rate this as one to savour ...

shove the action in your face.

It’s all rather impressive and will be up there with some of the most impressive action scenes this summer, or even for some years.

Howe ve r, a t f i l m number three in the franchise, it still doesn’t deliver anything staggering in the way of something new.

You know you’re getting explosions – and explosions are exactly what you get.

This third instalment clocks in at an overwhelming 154 minutes.

The bloated, drawn-out running time serves to only remind you of how easily scenes can become one-dimensional and predictable.

It’s not all bad though, far from it.

Transformers: Dark of the Moon won’t delight in regard to script but the standout actions are truly unforgettable.

Only the truly dull and monotonous of cinemagoers would find themselves bored with Bay’s bombastically crafted action scenes.

Conspicuous by her absence though is

Megan Fox, who departed the franchise after the sequel.

Whether she was present for the third film or not, doesn’t really matter in the grand scheme of things.

Nothing too big has been changed and the portrayal of the rest of the cast remains as simple as ever.

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it, right? Or, in the case of Michael Bay, blow it up.

Without giving away too much, the plot is rooted in the 1969 Moon Landing as well as the Cold War, which creates the latest strife between Optimus Prime’s Autobots and the Decepticons that has carried through to modern day.

Meanwhile, Shia LeBeouf is his usual self in the role as Sam, who’s fresh out of college, unemployed and ticked off about his whole situation in life, frustrations that are adversely affect-

ing his relationship with girlfriend, Carly, played by fresh-faced British actress, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley Overall, the 154-minute running time is the sore thumb of Transformers: Dark of the Moon. A couple of scenes could easily have had a few minutes shaved off and with it, making the overblown action less drawn out.

Quality of quantity, as the old adage goes.

The die-hard fans of the Transformers franchise, as in the faithful that existed before Michael Bay scurried onto the scene, could be divided on how their beloved Autobots and Decepticons are portrayed here. Meanwhile, those who are looking for non-stop explosions, fire and action will undoubtedly lap this up. Either way, there’s enjoyment to be found, in some way, in Transformers: Dark of the Moon.

7 July 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 25

Wares you might feel wary about ADAM MAGUIRE

TECHNOLOGY is laden with words ending in “ware”. Most people are familiar with software and hardware, and maybe one or two others, but the ever-increasing number of “wares” can get confusing at the best of times.

Here are explanations for some of the more common “wares”.

install on a piece of hardware, and is also called programmes, applications or simply apps. That could mean an operating system, such as Windows, or an internet browser, game or word processor.

Hardware Hardware is any physical piece of technology – so, your computer is the hardware, as are all the bits and pieces inside the box (such as the hard drive, processor and so on). More recently, this has been applied to phones and tablets.

Freeware A combination of “free” and “software”, this is, used to describe free, legal versions of software. This freeware is often a basic variety of something, and encourages you to buy the full version.

Software Software is what you

Malware A combination of

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“malicious” and “software”, this term is a catchall for any type of dangerous software designed to damage your computer or steal your information.

Good virus scan software and a firewall is crucial. McAfee and Norton offer good paidfor options, while AVG and Avast are good, free alternatives.

Spyware This malicious software tries to secretly install itself on your computer and spy on your activities, to try to gain access to passwords, credit card details and so on.

A free programme, called Spybot – Search & Destroy is a good option for those looking to see if there is spyware on their computer. Scarily enough, there usually is.

Adware This is a virus that causes adverts to pop-up at every turn on your computer. If every website you visit seems to have obtrusive ads popping up all the time, this may be the reason why.

The previously mentioned Spybot is good at clearing these threats, as is another free programme, Adaware.

Scareware A relatively new threat, this is a dangerous piece of software that tries to shock or scare you into handing over money or credit card details.

One tactic, for example, is to tell you that there is a virus on your computer, and that you need to buy a certain piece of software to fix this.

This can often be made

to look like a legitimate warning but, if it is not coming from your own anti-virus software, ignore it.

HP Touchpad

IN A market dominated by the iPad, HP’s first attempt at a tablet is a strong one – the big question is: Can it can get the apps to back it up?

While Apple’s competitors, such as HP, have been slow to get to market with their tablet alternatives, the last few weeks has seen that change.

Motorola’s Xoom is hitting shelves, Samsung has updated its Galaxy Tab and Blackberry’s Playbook is on the horizon.

The HPTouchpad joins that list, and offers some-

thing a little different.

It runs on HP’s own WebOS software, which is extremely stylish and user-friendly. It is gesture-based, so it’s perfect for touch, and, while it was designed initially for phones, it looks well on the bigger screen.

Overall, the Touchpad feels good in the hand. It is slim and comfortable to

use, but does not feel flimsy.

It also manages to strike the same balance of the iPad, where it feels like a serious, even business-friendly device, without being boring.

However, as it runs on WebOS – which is way behind Android and Apple’s IOS – it does not have an awful lot of apps to offer.

This is something that HP will need to address – fast, as even the best tablet is nothing without the apps to install on it.

The HP Touchpad is available in Ireland from early July, from €479.

Visit teic.ie for the latest tech news, reviews and views.

GAZETTE

26 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 7 July 2011

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PLANNING NOTICE FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL I, Philippa Hudson intend to apply for permission for development at this site No. 103 Georgian Village, Castleknock, Dublin 15.

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FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL

FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL

K ieran O’Neill Secetary Castleknock Community Centre Associaltion apply for Variation to existing conditions to permission F02A/0007 for all weather facility by extending hours of opperation to new time 7 am until 10 pm. Scoil Thomais NS will continue to retain preferantial access but variation to make faciity available to other users during school hours. Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the Planning Authority during its’ public opening hours and a submission or observation may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.

I, Christopher Knight, intend to apply for Permission for development at No. 24 Forest Court Swords, County Dublin. The development will consist of one no. additional four bedroom, two storey dormer style detached dwellinghouse (area 108m2) in south side garden of existing house; a new boundary division wall; existing vehicular entrance is proposed to be widened and used for both the new house and the existing house. The site boundary facing the Forest Court and Forest Grove is proposed to have new piers and low walls to provide screening, with new driveways & four no. car-parkings spaces, two to each front garden. Also included are alterations to existing site drainage and additional surface water drainage measures and associated siteworks. 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.

A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing on payment of the prescribed fee within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application.

13018

13054

PLANNING NOTICE

PLANNING NOTICE

FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL

FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL

We, Janet and Ken Leech, intend to apply for Planning Permission at 14 Cherry Avenue, Carpenterstown, Dublin 15. The development consists of works to the existing dormer bungalow, which include the removal of the existing conservatory and glazed link to the existing single storey chalet, all to the rear of the building, and it’s replacement with a single storey extension, with rooflights, linking the existing chalet with the main house; the replacement of the existing flat roof of the chalet with a tiled pitched roof, to match the existing; the extension of the first floor master bedroom out into the existing balcony to the front; the installation of solar panels to the main roof; and alterations to the existing accommodations.

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 (20Euros) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of this application.

13060

We, Keith & Colette Cooney intend to apply for Planning permission for the construction of a new two storey extension to the side and rear of existing house to include new kitchen dining and living area at ground floor and new bedroom and study at first floor with some internal alterations, construction of 3no. Dormer hips to the sides to form new space, with new dormer windows to large roof, new windows & doors throughout extension and 7no. New roof lights to new roof; all at No. 45 Hollystown Park, Hollystown, Dublin 15. The planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation may be made to the authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (20Euros) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of this application

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7 July 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

STAR TURN: Dublin Sports Awards winners for June are announced: Page 29

TOUCH RUGBY: IRELAND ‘EXHAUSTED’ AFTER THEIR WORLD CUP ENCOUNTERS

Touch teams get back from Edinburgh epics sport@gazettegroup.com

AF TER a gruelling five-day Touch World Cup tournament in Edinburgh, the Ireland Touch teams returned home on Monday proud of their achievements. “ We ’r e a b s o l u t e l y exhausted, but incredi b l y p r o u d t o h ave competed for Ireland against the best in the world in our spor t,” said president of the Ireland Touch Associa-

tion, Michael Davies.

“It was a tough tournament, with teams playing up to three matches a day. Every player gave their absolute best on the pitch and played right to the end.

“We had a great support team over there, and a big thank you should go to the coaches, managers, physios and support staff who coordinated our teams and kept the players

out on the pitch,” said Davies.

Twenty-seven countries participated in the event, with over 500 matches being played during the course of the tournament.

Australia took the honours in most categories, with many finals involving Australia and New Zealand, where touch rugby is a common social sport.

Ireland competed in four divisions in the

The amassed teams who represented Ireland at the Touch Rugby World Cup in Scotland last week

Mixed Open, Men’s Open, Men’s over 35s and Men’s over 40s categories.

Ireland finished 16th in the Open Category, and 11th in the senior age division. The Mixed Open team came 15th and the Mens’ Open

finished 12th in their category.

In the senior division, the Mens’ Over-35s finished 11th and the Mens’ Over-40s had the best result of all of the Irish teams, finishing fifth in their pool.

“There was some

great matches and each team had great support as they went out onto the pitches.

“For many of us, to compete at a World Cup was a dream. But to achieve it has been an oppor tunity of a lifetime. We trained

incredibly hard for this tournament, and each team should be proud of their efforts at the World Cup,” said Davies.

For more information about the sport, see www.irelandtouchassociation.com.

28 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 7 July 2011

GazetteSport Sport

Sarah and Stuart Logan were all smiles

Mini-league St Brigid’s mini-league was a week of sporting fun LL generations, from all walks of life – including the grandparents, parents, aunties, uncles, members of the executive and senior players – came out in force to support the St Brigid’s mini-league event that took place recently.

Nearly 500 players between the ages of four and 12 turned out at Russell Park for a great week of sport, topped off by a family day on the Saturday.

The teams were mixed and the emphasis was on all the children participating, with everyone getting to play, and every player got a prize.

Event co-ordinator Noel McLoughlin wishes to thank everyone who took part in the mini-leagues, his organising team, parents, mentors, managers, everyone locally that helped out on the day and, most of all, the boys and girls who came and played their hearts out every day.

Maria Lawlor, Grace Boyle, James O’Connell, David Foley and Mikey O’Reilly enjoyed the festivities. Picture: Nora Doyle

The O’Hara family

A

Sophie O’Shea, Zoe O’Brien, Anna Kenny Byrne, Grace Moore Niamh Cuddy, Emily Windsor and Isabelle Foley

Danish Bin Arifuzzaman, Ashwin Mathew, Daniel Bin Nearly 500 players between ages four and 12 joined the event in Russell Park for a week of sport

Arifuzzaman

7 July 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 29

in association with

GOLF: ANOTHER SUCCESSFUL OUTING FOR SHEENA

2011 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS JUNE WINNERS IN ASSOCIATION WITH

STARof theMONTH

LEEANNE ROYLE KARATE and martial arts generally do not see many stars emerging on an international stage so young, but Leeanne Royle, from Corduff Karate Club, is a such a star in the making, with a showing that earned her the prestigious Charles Naylor Memorial Trophy for the most outstanding child competitor at the Karate Union of Great Britain’s National Championships at the NIA Birmingham, Royle won the girls’ kumite event at the championships.

TEAMof theMONTH

MOUNTVIEW BOYS

MOUNTVIEW Boys’ Under11s are deserving winners of the team of the month after they came out at the summit of 900 teams who took part in the 2011 Danone Nations Cup, winning the national final at the AUL Complex in Clonshaugh. That performance earned them the right to represent Ireland in the world finals, which are held in Real Madrid’s Bernabeu stadium in October.

SUMMER is starting to heat up, and the sporting success of our teams and individuals continues to impress.

Our sports stars of the month for June are young stars very much on the rise.

Leeanne Royle has made an impression on the world of karate at a very young age, and will be a prospect to keep an eye on in the years to come, especially after winning the Charles Naylor Memorial Trophy for the most outstanding child competitor last month.

Mountview Boys showed their promise after coming out on top in

the Danone Nations’ Cup event at the AUL in a competition that saw 900 of the best young soccer sides in the country compete for the right to represent Ireland in October.

Let us know!

Let us know about your achievements in sport, so that the Gazette can tell the rest of Dublin — and give you, or your team, a chance of being one of our monthly stars.

Contact us on 01 601 0240 or sport@gazettegroup.com to tell us all about your successes, and follow us on Facebook at facebook.com/ gazettesport.

Sheena McElroy with Rita Maher (Lady Capt Adare Manor)and Marjorie McCorduck (ILGU President)

McElroy secures third national title sport@gazettegroup.com

GRANGE Golf Club’s Sheena McElroy defeated Headfort’s Pauline Walsh to secure her third Irish Senior Women’s Close Championship title in four years at Adare Manor Golf Club last week.

The southside golfer raced to an early lead over Walsh and, at one under par, held a fivehole advantage at the turn. McElroy continued to underline her dominance of this event in recent years and closed out the match on the 13th green.

Throughout the tour-

nament, McElroy showed herself to be a force to be reckoned with.

She got off to a flying start in her semi-final match against Pat Doran from Donabate, and never looked back after turning into the back nine with a two-hole advantage.

Doran holed out solidly on the 15th to reduce the gap to one hole but McElroy immediately responded winning the 16th and a two putt par on the 17th ended the affair.

After leading the qualifiers in the morning, McElroy saw off eight qualifier Marilyn Hend-

erson (Royal Belfast) on the penultimate green in the quarter-finals the previous day.

In the Senior’s Plate Final, Gertie McMullen, of The Island Golf Club, defeated ILGU Chief Executive, Sinead Heraty, from Castle, on the 16th to win the secondtier title.

McElroy repeated her impressive showing at last year’s seniors’ championship when she defeated debutante Niamh Giblin, of Dun Laoghaire, at Tullamore Golf Club.

McElroy went on to lead the Irish Seniors Team at the European

Senior Team Championships in Berlin last August.

This year has been another successful one for the Grange member, winning the Portuguese Senior Ladies’ Golf Competition at Vilamoura in the Algarve in January.

In challenging wet and windy conditions, McElroy was thrilled to secure a two-stroke victory, which was made extra special with husband, Eamon, caddying.

She also finished as the top British or Irish player in joint third place at the Spanish Senior Championships at Santa Ponsa in February.

Win tickets to see UCD in friendlies UCD AFC have announced recently that they will host two friendly matches at the Belfield Bowl against Scotland’s St Johnstone FC on July 10, and Spain’s Villarreal CF on July 16.

St Johnstone finished eighth in the SLP last season, and have a long tradition in Scottish football. Former players include Sir Alex Ferguson and Ally McCoist.

Villarreal finished fourth in last seasons La Liga and so are qualifiers for next season’s Champions League. As well as this, they have a wide range of talented footballers at their disposal with Barcelona target and former Manchester United player, Giuseppe Rossi, on the top of the list.

GazetteSpor t and UCD are giving lucky

readers the chance to win pairs of tickets to these matches.

Simply answer the following question: Where was Villarreal striker Guiseppe Rossi born?

Send your answer, together with your name, address and mobile phone number, to sport@ gazettegroup.com, with “UCD Friendlies” in the subject line of the mail.

UCD’s Robbie Benson

30 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 7 July 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

Plucky Plunkett’s pair at Parnell: Ella and Caoimhe ST OLIVER Plunkett’s Ella

O’Shaughnessy and Caoimhe Byrne were two of the lucky young stars given a hurling masterclass by Centra’s GAA Hurling Ambassadors for 2011, David O’Callaghan and Eoin Kelly, who hosted a skills tour event last weekend in Parnell Park.

David and Eoin passed on their skills tips to 60 of Ireland’s future hurlers as the Centra Skills Tour kicked off.

Get Messi at Dublin’s SOCCER: CASTLEKNOCK CELTIC TRAVEL TO HOLLAND Barca summer camps IN AUGUST, the FC Barcelona Academy coaches are coming to Portmarnock to pass on some of their Champions League-standard of knowledge of the game to young players from Dublin.

The camp caters for kids of all abilities, from ages seven to 16, and also helps educate coaches with the emphasis on players’ technical development, having fun and teaching the fundamentals of the game.

The new camp follows on the heels of the success of the workshop held with Barcelona’s coaches at Carton House earlier this year.

The camp takes place at Portmarnock AFC from Thursday, August 18 to Saturday, August 20 and runs from 9am to 12 noon for players aged from seven to 11 years, and from 2pm to 5pm for players aged from 12 to 16.

For more information, or to register for the courses, see www.dbsportstours.ie

Castleknock Celtic’s Under-11 side who travelled to Eindhoven to take part in the North Limburg Cup

Celtic’s Dutch courage Q sport@gazettegroup.com

CASTLEKNOCK Celtic’s Under-11 team recently went on a productive and instructive tour to Eindhoven, Holland, where they took part in the North Limburg cup.

Operating out of their base at the Rokenbosch holiday park, the team made the 30-minute trip to the base camp for the first day of matches.

The first day of football comprised three matches, which served to grade teams for the main competition on Sunday. Celtic’s grading games were against two teams from Holland and Denmark.

The final match of the qualifiers resulted in a narrow 3-2 defeat against Hedenstad, from Denmark.

Overall there were a number of strong defensive displays by Ben Cole, Jack Porter and Adam Murray.

There was an even earlier rise for all on Sunday morning as the coach arrived at 8.30.

Most of the team were still half-asleep as they took to the pitch for a 9.45 kick-off and were narrowly defeated by the German opposition.

One hour later they faced another Danish team. The players gradually awoke from their

slumber and after going behind twice produced a superb fighting display to eventually run out 3-2 winners, with Killian Ronan and Cormac Downes equalising and Kevin Udhin bravely heading home for a last-minute victory.

T he victor y really buoyed the spirits and the team were highly motivated for their final game by a passionate speech by Supporter of the Tournament, Gerry Murray.

Renewed They renewed rivalry with Hedenstad from Denmark, with Castleknock determined to finish to tournament

with a flourish.

Castleknock scored early when Killian Ronan converted a pinpoint cross from Liam Schmidt.

Cormac Downes then produced an unstoppable shot for a two-goal lead.

The Danes responded with a goal just before half-time.

Celtic totally dominated the second half as Player of the Tournament Shane O’Brien dictated play from midfield.

Kevin Udhin scored another headed goal after a superb cross from Andrea Poretta.

Tameen Chaal went on a solo run and set Kil-

lian up for the fourth goal.

Andrew Murphy had been suffering all week from a foot injury but after being introduced for the last few minutes, he set up Cormac Downes for the fifth goal to ensure an outstanding 5-1 victory to end their involvement.

It was worthwhile trip which saw Celtic end in runners-up spot in their group.

There was great enjoyment and a huge amount of experience gained by a close group of players who now look forward to another rewarding season starting when they resume training in August.

7 July 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 31

in association with

U-13 FOOTBALL: IMPRESSIVE RUN OF RESULTS

.

CLUB NOTICEBOARD CASTLEKNOCK CONGRATULATIONS to Castleknock

St Mochta’s thanking the club for

lads Ciaran, Ian and Shane, who

its help and assistance during the

won Leinster minor hurling medals

funeral of the late Brian Lenihan,

on Sunday after a great win over

RIP.

Kilkenny in Croke Park.

Hard luck to the senior hurlers and best of luck in the qualifiers.

Castleknock U-13s hit fine run of form sport@gazettegroup.com

CASTLEKNOCK’S Under-13 footballers were in sterling form last week when they saw off three top opposition sides to climb to the top of the Division 3 league.

To begin their run, the Castleknock men squared off against St Vincent’s at their home ground in Somerton Park last Tuesday. Coming toward the end of the game, the Marino visitors were up by six points, but the ‘Knock side weren’t finished yet, and came back to win the game by three points, 5-11 to 6-5.

Last Thursday, and two days after the heroics against Vincent’s, Castleknock had to face a Raheny side that boasted a five-game winning streak coming into the game. Playing with the home advantage again, Castleknock put in a performance of the season, beating the Raheny men by 14

points at 3-23 to 5-3.

Again, with only one day’s break from football, the Castleknock men travelled to Saggart last Saturday to face St Mary’s to complete their three-game winning streak. With the Mar y’s men getting the extra day’s break with their previous game falling on the Wednesday, it was still going to be tough for the ‘Knock team who were undoubtedly tired running out for their third game in five days.

However, the travelling Castleknock men executed the task well from the star t, and seemed to be constantly adding to the gulf between the sides. The score line told its own story as the game came to a close, with the Castleknock side seeing off the tough St Mary’s men in a dominating fashion, 4-19 to 1-2.

The three wins on the bounce have made the Castleknock men the toast of the Division

3 league coming into the summer break, and the young men will no doubt look to add to that when the season resumes.

Castleknock U-13’s manager, Dave O’Brien, gave GazetteSport his thoughts on his team’s privileged position.

“The lads have been playing with great spirit and intensity and a lot of that has been down to the coaching of Jim Moran, an former Monaghan footballer — he has really upped the level of training for us since he came in.

“The run probably could have come at a better time considering the summer break that

we’ve just began, but I have no doubt the lads can carry their momentum into the coming games.

“The team has gelled well, and there’s a genuinely good atmosphere around the side.

“They’ve been getting their heads down a n d wo r k i n g r e a l l y well in training and I’m delighted with the determination they’ve shown in the last few games,” O’Brien said.

Castleknock GAA are always welcoming new faces to their teams.

Anyone interested in playing football can contact Dave O’Brien on 0872559559, or see castleknock.net

The club extends its sympathies

Very best wishes to the Dublin

to the O’Sullivan and Meehan fami-

senior and minor footballers in

lies on their recent bereavements.

their Leinster finals on Sunday,

The very popular Castleknock GAA

particularly the Castleknock lads,

Summer Camps run from July 11 to

Ciaran, Ross, Graham and Kevin,

15 and from August 15 to 19. Regis-

who are with the Dublin minors.

tration takes place every Satur-

Super wins for both our adult

day at CCC (Castleknock Commu-

football teams last week and both

nity College). All are very welcome

squads are keeping their foot firm-

to come along, make new friends,

ly on the pedal for promotion. Also a

learn new skills and, most impor-

great win by our minor hurlers over

tantly, have fun.

Lucan.

Castleknock’s Under-13 footballers claimed three back-to-back victories to achieve top slot in Division 3

Lotto is at €2,400 with this week’s draw in the Bell.

The club has launched a bond

Our U-13 footballers went top of

scheme. Information nights on the

their league after three straight

bond scheme will be held for each

wins last week.

team and the suppor t from the

The club recently received a lovely letter of thanks for the Parish of

membership will determine the future facilities in Somerton.

ST BRIGID’S SENIOR footballers’ fundraising

Wexford.

night featuring the Irish trad band,

Plenty of games in Russell Park

The Players Brigade, is this Friday

this week: Senior footballers face

night. Music starts at 9pm. Tick-

TSS on Thursday at 7.30pm. Junior

ets €10 and big raffle on the night.

hurlers also face Maur’s on Thurs-

Framed signed Dubs’ jersey and

day in the league.

many more spot prizes.

U-13 footballers face Clontarf in a

Congratulations to Paul Winters

Div 1 league decider on Saturday at

and the Dublin minor hurlers on

3.30pm in Russell Park. Big support

their tremendous Leinster final

needed. Check out the club website

triumph over Kilkenny. Hard luck to

for many more fixtures.

Daire and Alan on their senior final defeat to Kilkenny.

Hard luck to our five girls who

Club lotto takes place in Russell Park this Thursday with a jackpot of €14,600.

started for the Dublin ladies’ sen-

Summer camp dates are as fol-

iors in their one-point defeat to

lows: July 18 to 22, August 15 to 19

Meath.

and August 22 to 25 (four days).

Best of luck to Barry, Sean, Declan and Paddy this Sunday against

Get your application form from www.stbrigidsgaa.com.

WESTMANSTOWN GAELS/GARDA Not a good week for our adult

now at an advanced stages, and

teams, with all three losing in

f inal pa yment for all travelling

league fixtures.

must be made by end of July. Please

Intermediates lost on Saturday evening to Man-O-War by a point, 1-11 to 1-10.

contact Alan Lynch or Eugene O Sullivan.

Thank you to everyone involved in

Junior 1s lost to Naomh Barrog

the VHI Cul Camp this week. A great

away, also by a point, while Junior

turnout was achieved. Well done to

2s also lost to St Brigid’s at Russell

club GPO Michael Ahern for organ-

Park by four points.

ising the sessions.

Our ladies got back to winning

The summer training schedule is

ways with a cup win over St Syl-

posted on the club web site. Please

vester’s at Westmanstown.

note that some training will take

Training continues for all teams at Westmanstown at usual times.

Preparation for New York trip is

place in Beech Park.

Visit http://www.westmanstowngaels.ie for the latest information.

ALL OF YOUR CASTLEKNOCK SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

NEW GANG CELTIC ABROAD: IN ’TOWN: Castleknock Westmanstown travel to

Holland host Leinster for North schools’ Limburg rugby Cup blitz P30 P28

MAY7,26, 2011 JULY 2011

THE BEST SUPER STARS: OF JUNE: May award Sports Awards nominees revealed revealed winners inside P29 P29

Castleknock trio show club’s ethos

GazetteSPORT

Castleknock provided three members to the minor hurling panel who won the 2011 Leinster title at Croke Park last week

Minor hurlers’ contribution to Leinster success is indicative of the Somerton spirit, says manager RONAN MOYLES castleknocksport@gazettegroup.com

SEVERAL members of Castleknock’s minor hurling panel have contributed to Dublin minors’ Leinster championship campaign, which culminated in an excellent 1-14 to 1-11 victory in Croke Park last weekend.

Ciaran Kilkenny started at number 10, but was moved to centre-forward, and looked very lively throughout, and his performance will have particularly pleased his club manager, Ruairi O’Dulaing.

“He really has good ball-winning and tackling ability,” O’Dulaing told Gazette Sport.

“He played a very central role; you could see that they had him there as a distributor.

“He won a lot of ball in and around the midfield to centre-forward area. And then he was spraying the ball all over the pitch, especially to the corners. He got through a huge amount of work that way.”

O’Dulaing has seen a greater maturity in his players’ performances in recent times.

“The Ciaran of old might have got the ball and gone running, but he’s improved that aspect of his game.”

Castleknock’s Ian Cleary was on the bench for the Dubs, whilst Shane Boland was involved on the extended panel, but did not quite make the 24-man final squad.

Castleknock, who won the national Under-14 Feile hurling title a couple of years back, are fast developing a welcome reputation for producing young, talented hurlers.

“Ourselves, and a club like Lucan, for example, have so much work going on from a young age to get hurleys in players’ hands,” said O’Dulaing.

“We try to develop an ethos whereby if they’re going down to the shop or the green that they bring a hurley with them” There is also a focus on the more technical aspects of the game.

“Rather than flogging them to death and having them run around all the time, we have them do a lot of stick work and skills training.

“If you look at the guys at the very top, they’re the ones who can do the basics very well.

“Obviously, you have to work on the fitness, that’s huge. But it’s working on those basic skills. The first touch is something we’ve put emphasis on because, as Kilkenny showed in the senior match, if it’s any way off at that level, you can forget it.”

So, what are the prospects for the future?

“There are guys even playing at minor level at the moment who are coming on year after year” “There is a system there and a very good ethos in the club. We try to give everybody a go and making sure people develop through the ranks.

“Hopefully, this ethos will give Castleknock even stronger representation on Dublin hurling panels in the years to come.”