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YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER
August ugu 25, 2011
INSIDE: Ferdia’s fitting in nicely at NEXT STEPS: Our essential guide Farmleigh P4 to your third-level options P17-23
The long wait is over: Students get their results CASTLEKNOCK College head-
Football: Castleknock make the leap to intermediate Page 32
master Oliver Murphy is pictured with students Anthony Bourached, David Toner, Jack Hurley, Nicola Cronin and James O’Loughlin at their school just after receiving their Leaving Cert results. After the long wait over the summer the momentous day finally arrived. The headmaster and his staff were on hand to help with any questions or decisions to be made now that the results were in. Full Gallery on Page 10
Soccer: Local sides back in action as senior leagues kick off Page 30
ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ................8-10 TRAVEL..........................14 ENTERTAINMENT ..........16 MOTORS ....................... 24 BUSINESS .................... 25 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26
Five young swans found dead in bag Shocked council staff make the gruesome find
Q LAURA WEBB
FIVE swan cygnets have been found dead after they were brutally killed and dumped in a plastic bag at a housing estate in Blanchardstown. The dead birds were discovered by shocked parks’ staff from Fingal County Council.
The workers found the five dead cygnets last Thursday, August 18, one week after they went missing from the park at Waterville Tolka Valley, located near Connolly Hospital. “It’s such a terrible, horrible thing to do. They were just cygnets, young swans,” one distraught council worker told the
Gazette. The DSPCA has described the incident as an “absolute disgrace” adding: “Under the 1911 Animal Welfare Act wildlife is protected, and swans are wildlife. Anybody who harms or causes distress to any animals, swans included, can be prosecuted.” Full Story on Page 5
2 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 25 August 2011
EVENT: PRESTIGIOUS COMPETITION COMING
Countdown is on for annual D15 awards Q LAURA WEBB
T H E c o u n t d ow n i s on for the annual D15 Chamber Business and Community Awards and businesses and organisations from the locality are being encouraged to take part in the prestigious competition.
Preparations The preparations for the annual awards’ ceremony are already underway and awards’ brochures have been posted to hundreds of businesses throughout the Dublin 15 area. E a c h y e a r, l o c a l companies and organisations are awarded across a range of sectors. This year there are 12 awards, including Contribution to Community Award by a Business, which is being sponsored by Blanchardstown Area Partnership, and Contribution to Community Award by an Individual that is being sponsored by the Institute of Technology Blanchardstown. Awards There will also be the Best Food and Drink E x p e r i e n c e Aw a r d , s p o n s o r e d b y D 15 Chamber, and Retail Premises of the Year Award, sponsored by Green Property Limited, along with Customer Service Team of the Year Award, sponsored
by AIB Bank. Encouraging businesses and organisations to take part, D15 Chamber President, David Donnelly said: “We want to encourage all businesses and organisations in the D15 area to consider entering - there are no entry fees and you don’t have to be a member of the D15 Chamber. “To enter, just log on to www.d15chamber.ie and download the entry form for the category you require. “Alternatively, you can email me – president@d15chamber.ie to request a brochure or entry form(s) which can be emailed or posted to you. You are welcome to enter up to three different categories. “I would like to offer my thanks to all those who entered the awards in 2010 and, in particular, to congratulate those who were shortlisted and won awards at the Gala Ball Evening. “The commitment to providing a high level of service and innovation, which was demonstrated by the quality of the entries, was very obvious to all involved,” David said. T h e G a l a Aw a r d s Presentation Ball will be held in the Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown on Friday, October 7. Booking Form is available on www.d15chamber.ie or 8900977.
COUNCIL Project is expected to take up to six months
Work due to begin on Porterstown Link road Q LAURA WEBB
TRUCKS and diggers were present at the site of the Porterstown Link Road this week. Construction vehicles were there for a new link road essential to facilitate the provision of school services in the local area, and are to begin work by the end of the week. According to a spokes-
person for Fingal County Council the construction vehicles were present to “begin the works compound/base” as works on the road is due to start at the end of this week. Work on the road, which will link the Porterstown Road with the Diswellstown Road Roundabout, as well as the Diswellstown Roundabout with Luttrellstown
Road is expected to take up to six months. The FCC spokesperson went on to say that the Porterstown Link Road project is “essential to facilitate the provision of school services in the area.” Works contracted for the link road include the construction of 420m of 7.5m-wide carriageway from Diswellstown Road Roundabout to
the Luttrellstown Road. Construction of 110m of 7.5m-wide carriageway from Diswellstown Road Roundabout to Porterstown Road, while 50m of 7.0m-wide carriageway, from proposed new road between Diswellstown Roundabout and Luttrellstown to Porterstown Road at a point approximately 90m south of existing Diswell-
stown Roundabout, is also included. The works will also see the Porterstown Road closed to vehicular and pedestrian traffic on the southside of the new link road. Pedestrian paths, cycle paths and grass verges will also be included. New pedestrian and traffic signalisation is also on the plans.
Gerry Clabby, Heritage Officer Fingal County Council, Jim Lacey, Joan Burton, Minister for Social Protection, and Mary Eustace
HERITAGE: EXHIBITION OF PHOTOGRAPHS AND IMAGES
A little bit of the local history of Dublin west Q LAURA WEBB
A LITTLE bit of Dublin West history, depicted through photographs and images, is on display at the Blanchardstown Library as part of Heritage Week celebrations. Local historian and Gazette columnist, Jim Lacey, was asked by the Fingal South West Heritage Society to stage a pictorial exhibition celebrating the history of the Greater Blanchardstown and Castleknock area for Heritage Week, which runs until August 28. The exhibition was launched on Monday, August 22, by Mayor of Fingal Gerry McGuire, with over 100 people in attendance, including
Dublin West TD and Minister for Social Protection, Joan Burton. Delighted with the concept, Jim jumped at the chance to stage the exhibition. “Having written A Candle in the Window, A History of the Barony of Castleknock, I had a large amount of material at hand from the research I carried out. When writing the book, I wanted every picture in my possession in the book and all in Technicolor and Cinemascope too. “But the reality of publishing costs have to be taken into account and local history books don’t attract the same sales as thrillers or kissand-tell tales about
famous celebrities. So black and white is what I got and fewer illustrations than I wanted. “When Fingal South West Heritage Society approached me, the prospect of being able to exhibit these prints and photographs in full colour, and at a decent size, was too good to be missed,” he said. The 62 pictures and images on display include copies of paintings of the Dublin West area in the 1760s and 1780s by Gabriel Beranger, courtesy of National Library of Ireland, and superb photos and paintings from retired local parish priest, Fr Eugene Kennedy, showing the history and growth of
Blanchardstown and Castleknock through the decades, as well as its beautiful surroundings. “The Strawberry Beds is one of the most beautiful locations on this island; the Tolka Valley, Dunsink Observatory, Diswellstown and its delightful Glen, the lovely Royal Canal Walk – they’re all displayed in this exhibition.” Jim’s favourite image is of Lady Ann Luttrell. “This is great image courtesy of the National Gallery. She was a member of the Luttrell Family. She had a bit of a reputation, she would have had many lovers and she married the brother of King George of England, but King
George wasn’t ver y happy with his brother marrying her because of her reputation. “He introduced the Royal Marriage Act afterwards, that no other member of the royal family could marry without the permission of the monarch, that law is still there today. “There are some really interesting things on display.” According to Jim, it’s hugely impor tant to celebrate local heritage and, with so much history throughout Dublin West, the exhibition is a great way to bring the past into the future. See the exhibition a t B l a n c h a r d s t ow n Library all this week.
25 August 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 3
LEAVING CERT School bucks national maths’ trend
The long wait is over as results arrive Q LAURA WEBB
SCHOOLS across Dublin 15 were delighted for their former students last week after receiving the muchanticipated results of the Leaving Cert exams. Thousands of students let out a sigh of relief on Wednesday, August 17, when they finally got hold of their Leaving Cert results after weeks of waiting. Nearly a week later, and offers from CAO courses were also making their way to the homes of many. Headmaster at Castleknock College, Oliver Murphy, said he was thrilled with his students’ results. “They did really well this year. We are really chuffed that 64% of students here got over 400 points. There has been a lot of talk about the maths results, but nobody failed maths here, we are
delighted. It was so pleasing to see so many happy faces last Wednesday. “We did have high-flyers in the high 500s, but I am really chuffed with the high number that came in between 400 and 500, that really gave me satisfaction.” --------------------------
‘They did really well this year. We are really chuffed that 64% of students here got over 400 points’ --------------------------
The school is one of 24 schools taking part in a pilot scheme to introduce project maths as a subject and, for Mr Murphy, it is working well. “This is a new style of
maths; there was someone on the radio giving out about it, but I like this style of maths. “It is looking at maths differently, students have to understand the concept, and the questions are sometimes in English, asking to reflect on what their findings are. There is less complication and more understanding of what you are doing, and what the results signify. It helps to understand maths through real-life scenarios.” For students who may not have received their preferred CAO option, Mr. Murphy advices students to look at what they have been offered before panicking. “See what you have been offered before you panic and there are other universities out there that are not part of the CAO. Our guidance counsellor
Killian O’Sullivan and Sam Carr, from Castleknock Community College, celebrate after getting their results
is always here for them, and I am here, if they need any advice on career options. This year’s class was wonderful and I wish them all the very best in the future,” Oliver said.
ROADS
Warning signage WARNING signage at the entrance to St Catherine’s Park has been improved following concerns about the dangers in turning onto the park’s access road. Green Party representative for Dublin West, Roderic O’Gorman, has welcomed the improved warning signage. A Dublin 15 resident voiced concerns to O’Gorman about the dangers in turning onto the access road to St Catherine’s Park, off Laraghcon Road. “In particular, worries were raised about bad visibility and the lack of clear signage indicating to motorists on the main road the existence of a concealed entrance,” said O’Gorman. “I contacted the council about the issue and they confirmed that they have now improved the warning signs at the approaches to the entrance road to the Park, off the LucanClonee Road.”
4 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 25 August 2011
THE HELIX: BUSINESS NETWORK EVENT
PEOPLE Local man enjoying being Writer in Residence
Helping finance your own business Q MIMI MURRAY
THE Fingal Business Network, in association with Fingal County Enterprise Board, has released the details of the next Business Network Event, Options for Financing your Business, to be held at The Helix, DCU, this September. The event will focus on finance options for business start-ups and expansions, with a presentation by Lar Burke, of companymoney.ie. Lar’s presentation will address options on who to approach for finance, issues to be aware of when applying for finance, how agencies will view the same project differently, and it will also cover specific information that is needed to support a business application for finance. There will be ample opportunity for attendees to ask questions relating to their specific area of business on the night. The presentation will be followed by a speed networking session facilitated by Paul Murgatroyd, manager of the Fingal Business Network. Attendees will have a set period of time to introduce themselves to fellow Business Network members and make a short business pitch before moving on to a new business contact. Those attending
should remember to bring an ample supply of business cards with them on the night, and come prepared to give a concise and clear picture of their business. Commenting on the forthcoming event, Paul Murgatroyd said: “Following on from the success of last the Network event in June, which was attended by over 100 people, we are delighted to offer Network members the opportunity to gain valuable advice regarding business finance, as well as the chance to network with other Fingal-based business leaders.” He continued: “Our feedback from the last event showed that, in today’s business environment, networking plays an important role for companies of all sizes, and we are sure that our speed networking session will provide a great opportunity for small business owners to get their message across in a structured but relaxed environment.” The event is free to attend for Fingal-based businesses and takes place on Thursday, September 1, in the Gallery Room at The Helix, DCU. Further information can be obtained from Fingal County Enterprise Board on 01 8900800 or by e-mailing info@fingalceb.ie or visiting www. fingalceb.ie/fbn
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Sandycove resident, Ferdia MacAnna, has been settling well into life as Writer in Residence at Farmleigh Estate
Ferdia’s fitting in nicely at Farmleigh Q LAURA WEBB
HE is an author, director and musician, and now Ferdia MacAnna is enjoying being Writer in Residence at the tranquil estate of Farmleigh, with no one but the local deer to disturb him. He says it’s a perfect place for any writer to find inspiration for new work. Since July, Sandycove resident Ferdia, has been settling well into life at Farmleigh Estate. Now in its sixth year, the prestigious role as Writer in Residence at the stately home has been previously filled by well-known Irish authors such as Dermot Bolger and Conor Kostick. Ferdia’s work includes w riting T he Last of the High Kings, which was made into a Hol-
lywood movie starring Gabriel Byrne, being singer/songwriter of Rocky DeValera and the Gravediggers and the Rhythm Kings; he is also a freelance director for Fair City, and a lecturer. Speaking to the Gazette about his new role, Ferdia says the peaceful surroundings of the estate located in the Phoenix Park makes it easier to write. “The thing is, you don’t have any excuse not to write; you don’t have the procrastination shuffle that writers love to do, like, I will go and get milk, I’ll just tidy up first, things like that. “Basically you have a cottage given to you that is full of muse paintings, it’s secure, it is quiet and it is in a good location. It is a real writers
place. “I have been Writer in Residence in a couple of places before and I like the idea of having the chance to write and be undisturbed by everybody except herds of stampeding deer,” he joked. The Writer in Residence is required to organise a number of events at Farmleigh. Ferdia hosts screenwriting courses for beginners each week, and has organised events such as Writers Unplugged. He will also be hosting Actors in their own Write. “I am trying to develop a punk play based in Dublin in the 70s and I am hoping the last thing I do will be a staged reading of that play. “It won’t be a full performance, because it will cost too much, so a staged reading with an
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‘The thing is, you don’t have any excuse not to write you don’t have the procrastination shuffle that writers love to do, like I will go and get milk, I’ll just tidy up first, things like that’
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audience and just see what happens. “I haven’t written a novel since 2006, so I am hoping to get stuck into that too. All in all, it is very good. “There is an event coming up, with actors reading their own work, called Actors in their own Write. Some of them would be from Fair City, like Tom Hopkins, who plays Christy, and we hope to have Claudia Carroll, who used to be an actress and is now
a famous writer; she is going to come out - that is coming up in September 14. “I am really enjoying my time here; I hope I will be able to write something that I will be able to stage, something that came about as a result of my residency there, because that is the whole point isn’t it?” he added. For further information on events hosted by Ferdia, log onto www. farmleigh.ie
25 August 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5
CYGNETS Young birds were brutally killed
5 young swans found dead in bags Q LAURA WEBB
FIVE swan cygnets have been found dead after they were brutally killed and dumped in a plastic bag at a housing estate in Blanchardstown. The dead birds were discovered by shocked park staff from Fingal County Council. The council workers found the dead cygnets last Thursday, August 18, one week after they went missing from the park at Waterville Tolka Valley, located near Connolly Hospital. “It’s such a terrible, horrible thing to do. They were just cygnets, young swans,” one distraught council worker told the Gazette. “We found them in dumped in plastic bags in an estate in Whitestown.
The swans had become residents at the park in Waterville. They were taken last week, either Friday or Thursday. --------------------------
‘It’s such a terrible, horrible thing to do. They were just cygnets, young swans’ --------------------------
“They [the people who took the swans] are seen going up by Tolka Valley carrying them on their back. It is such a terrible, horrible thing to do. They were just cygnets, young swans,” he added. T he DSPCA has described the incident as an “absolute disgrace”. Miriam Kerins, of the
The cygnets were found dumped in plastic bags in an estate in Whitestown
DSPCA, said those who carry out such acts can be prosecuted. “Under the 1911 Animal Welfare Act wildlife is protected, and swans are wildlife. Anybody who harms or causes distress to any animals, swans included, can be prosecuted. It is hard to know what happened to them, but if they were found in a plastic bag that would suggest something gruesome happened. “It is an absolute disgrace that this has happened, swans are a protected species and anyone causing any harm or danger or distress or removing them from their natural habitat may be prosecuted,” she said.
Seminar is LOCAL postponed MATTERS A CLUB development seminar, due to be held in Croke Park this Saturday, has been postponed until November. Clubs throughout Dublin were invited to a club development seminar – the Future of Your Club – this Saturday. However, the event has been postponed due to circumstances beyond organisers’ control. A provisional date of
Saturday, November 19 has been set. Those registered have been contacted and will be notified of further developments. Last year’s event was attended by a variety of sports club representatives, with over 200 club delegates 31 different sports such as Frisbee to sailing, Gaelic Football to Special Olympics and many more.
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GARDENERS
Some top growing advice MEET the Phoenix Park gardeners to learn more about growing your own fruit and vegetables while discovering the beautifully restored Victorian Walled Gardens. This Saturday, September 10, the OPW’s professional gardeners Brian and Meeda will be on hand to give advice on keeping your garden in shape. The duo will meet at the Victorian Walled Kitchen Garden located at the Phoenix Park Visitor Centre from 10.30am until 12.30pm. Suitable footwear is needed. The walled gardens are open 7 days a week from 10am until 4pm. Car parking is available.
6 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 25 August 2011
ESTATE Grounds continue to be a huge attraction
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Distinguished guests staying in the 14-bed room house include the Emperor of Japan and Monaco newlyweds, Prince Albert of Monaco and Princess Charlene Wittstock. But the most high-profile and recent guests were Queen Elizabeth II and American President Barack Obama Farmleigh House attracts up to 300,000 visitors a year. Picture: OPW
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Farmleigh House is ideal for family visits Q LAURA WEBB news@gazettegroup.com
IT began life as a small Georgian country house and has been owned by one of Ireland’s most famous dynasties, the Guinness family. Hugely extended by the first Earl of Iveagh, grandson of Ar thur Guinness, today Farmleigh House is in the hands of the Office of Public Works and along with taking a leading role during the recent visit of Queen Elizabeth II and US President Barrack Obama, it also attracts up to 300,000 visitors annually. T he estate, which dates back to 1660s, originally belonged to the Warren family who received 459 acres in Castleknock following
the restoration of King Charles II to the English throne in 1660. The estate later went through a variety of owners until it was purchased by the first Earl, Edward Cecil Guinness. “It was a smaller Georgian house and then Edward Cecil took on the architect James Franklin Fuller to extend it and change the façade and add on extra rooms. The original house was incorporated,” explains Farmleigh’s Librarian, Julia Cummins. Ultimately the house would be transformed by Guinness into the sprawling Victorian mansion we see today. In 1999, the Irish G ove r n m e n t p u rchased the estate from
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‘It was great to have the Queen stay here. An item from our Benjamin Iveagh library collection, an Irish primer book to learn Irish phrases – dating from 1580s that belonged to Queen Elizabeth I – was replicated and presented to Queen Elizabeth II’ --------------------------------------------------------
the Guinness Family for €29.2 million. It was renovated and refurbished by OPW. David Levins, assistant estate manager at Farmleigh, says the historic property has three roles: To provide official hospitality to official heads of state, it is for high-level government meetings and to provide access to the
public with its cultural programme. The most recent building renovated at the estate is the boathouse, now a restaurant where many locals take time out to meet and catch up over lunch. “There was originally a boathouse here and it was renovated in 2004. Before the boathouse restaurant opened, we
had a cafe in the courtyard, the motor house. It was originally were Edward Cecil Guinness would have had his cars,” says David. Distinguished guests staying in the 14-bed room house include the Emperor of Japan and Monaco newlyweds, Prince Albert of Monaco and Princess Charlene Wittstock. But the most high-profile and recent guests were Queen Elizabeth II and American President Barack Obama. “It was great to have the Queen stay here. An item from our Benjamin Iveagh library collection, an Irish primer book to learn Irish phrases – dating from 1580s that belonged to Queen Elizabeth I – was replicated and
presented to Queen Elizabeth II. When she said: ‘A Uachtarain agus a chairde’ in her speech here, that it is likely to have been inspired by that gift,” says Julia. T he estate is now among one of the top sites to visit in Ireland. It’s friendly environment and abundance of entertainment makes it the ideal place for families, who continue to come back time and time again. David, who schedules the cultural programme for Farmleigh, says the estate is now open all year round, providing the public with a wider range of events. “We have music every Sunday at the bandstand, and the food market is a great attraction.
“People from all over Ireland come to experience the food. Our plant fair is one of our biggest events, it attracted in the region of 30,000 last year.” Another popular and “magical fair” is the Christmas Fair, but Farmleigh is always thinking of new ideas for its cultural pro gramme. In recent times it held Drive-in Movies, which was “very popular”, with some 400 cars tuning in to watch films like Jaws and The Shining, an event they might look into holding again. There are also tours of the estate available to visitors. For more information on events taking place at Farmleigh visit www. farmleigh.ie
25 August 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 7
8 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 25 August 2011
EVENT The Rose of Tralee Festival 2011 finalists helped
Finalists fall in to help out HE Rose of Tralee International Festival 2011 finalists helped celebrate the launch of the new Carlton Hotel in Blanchardstown recently. Formerly The Plaza Hotel, Tyrrelstown, the Carlton Hotel Blanchardstown was launched in the company of the 32 Roses. The Carlton Hotel Group is one of the main sponsors of the Rose of Tralee, and every year the Roses begin their Official Rose Tour at the Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport. They began their tour last Sunday, but this year the location of the ball was changed to the new Carlton Hotel Blanchardstown to coincide with its launch.
T
Peter Cooke, Carlton Hotel Blanchardstown, Sean O’Brien, Leinster Rugby player, Clare Kambamettu, Rose of Tralee 2010, Devin Hotel Group
Tipperary Rose and Declan Meagher, general manager, Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport
The Boston and New England Rose, Philadelphia Rose, Big Apple Rose and Queensland Rose
Anthony O’Gara, managing director of The Rose of Tralee Festival, Jean O’Connoll, director of Sales and Marketing for The Carlton Hotel Group, Declan Meagher, general manager, The Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport, Daithi O’Se, Clare Kambamuettu Rose of Tralee 2010, Michael Kearney, CEO of The Carlton Hotel Group, Declan Curtis, general manager of the Carlton Hotel The Toronto Rose and Audrey McDonald, from Aerlingus
Blanchardstown and John Varley, director of The Carlton Hotel Group
25 August 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 9
celebrate the launch of the new Carlton Hotel
The Wexford, Laois, Roscommon and Texas Roses
Rose of Tralee 2010 Clare Kambamettu with Darren Toner, Leinster Rugby player, Michael Kearney, CEO Carlton
Kearney, sales and marketing executive, Carlton
Germany Rose and Sunderland Rose with Declan Curtis, general
Hotel Group
manager, of The Carlton Blanchardstown
10 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 25 August 2011
LEAVING CERT The long wait is over for local students
Anthony Bourached, David Toner and Jack Hurley
Jamie Sweeney, Darragh Power, Brendan Walsh, Coolmine
Examination
When the results come in OCAL students were at their schools early recently to collect their longawaited Leaving Cert results. It was a morning of mixed emotions as the results were opened and each student quickly reviewed what they had achieved, with clearly overjoyed while others expressed disappointment. But there were also plenty of words of encouragement from staff and friends. Then out came the mobile phones as waiting parents and family were contacted to pass on the results of this milestone exam. But, no matter what the result, everyone can be proud of the hard work and effort they put in.
L
Sara Da Silva, Lucy Edwards and Laura McInerney
Avril Gallagher, Tara Hillen, Sinead Scullion, Kelli Howard, Coolmine Community School
The students of Blakestown CS
Killian O’Sullivan, Sam Carr and Cathal Peelo,
Jack Fogarty, Mikey Ebbs, Stephen Byrne, Joseph Crampton and
Headmaster Oliver Murphy, Anthony Bourached, David Toner, Jack
Castleknock Community College
Stephen Flynn, Castleknock Community College
Hurley, Nicola Cronin and James O’Loughlin
25 August 2011 GAZETTE 11
12 GAZETTE 25 August 2011
GazettePETS PETS
Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA
THE FACTS: EXOTIC PETS RETAIN NATURAL PREDATORY AND DEFENSIVE INSTINCTS
it’s difficult to provide for the physical, psychological and behavioural requirements
Owning an exotic pet XOTIC animals are unsuitable companion pets. Honestly, I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve said this to people. And why are they unsuitable? I hear you ask. Because, once in a captive environment, it’s difficult to provide for the physical, psychological and behavioural requirements of these unique animals and, in my opinion, this makes for an irresponsible, dangerous situation – even if exotic pet owners believe otherwise. I mean, regardless of your belief on this issue, you don’t have to be Sherlock Holmes to realise that owning an exotic animal can prove dangerous for you and for the animal because you can never predict their behaviour…EVER!
E
Also, with the vast variety of companion animals available to potential pet parents, and who are at this moment sitting in rescue shelters waiting for good homes, you know, gorgeous f luffy cats, majestic, loyal dogs, cute, cuddly bunnies, et al, I have to ask myself why so many people still insist on seeking out these wonderful, yet highly unsuitable, creatures as pets. You see, domestic animals are bred by humans over thousands of generations. They are dependant, predictable and controllable. Howe ve r, d e s p i t e several generations of captive breeding, wild, exotic animals continue to retain their natural predatory and defensive instincts. Prey species become anxious during captivity, making them dangerous and unsuitable to living in an envi-
ronment with other animals and humans. So, let’s ask ourselves the question: What is an exotic animal and how is it different from keeping a companion animal? An exotic animal is a wild animal taken out of its natural habitat and bred in captivity. It may be sold as a companion animal, but it can never truly be a companion to a human being. The Dublin SPCA understands the needs of companion animals and the veterinary care and specific requirements important to their wellbeing. Suffering
Exotics often suffer immensely because most people don’t have the resources or knowledge to properly meet their requirements. The exotic pet trade is big business and many
teens buy them as socalled status symbol pets or as novelties. However, owners must remember exotic animals cannot perform tricks, they ignore their owners and are difficult to care for. When selecting an exotic, people don’t consider how large they will grow and how long they will live. For example, animals such as macaws and box turtles can even outlive their human owners. Also, when the novelty of owning an exotic diminishes, the reality of the high-care cost, lack of interaction, increase in responsibility, not to mention size, soon sets in. This leads to the animals being abandoned or surrendered to a welfare shelter such as the Dublin SPCA. If you insist on owning an exotic animal, despite
what I’ve advised, then have a look at my checklist below: • Will the animal create unpleasant smells? • How long will this animal live? • How large/long will this animal grow? • What is the specific diet of this animal? • How much enjoyment/pleasure will I get from owning this animal? • What are the environmental requirements of this animal? • Will this animal be a danger to me and others? • What are the legal requirements of owning this animal? • How can I provide specific veterinary care for this animal?
chlamydia, giardia, hepatitis A, rabies, ringworm, tuberculosis and scabies from owning certain exotic animals? And no, I’m not auditioning for Mastermind. I’m trying to inform all you wannabe exotic pet owners that keeping an exotic is bad for your health, not to mention your social life. Some of the above
are very serious and some may even prove fatal, but one thing’s for sure – they’re all bound to diminish your list of Facebook friends faster than you can say Albino Burmese Python. For more info log onto www.dspca.ie, consult your vet or email me at miriam.kerins@dspca. ie
And Another Thing…
Did you know you can get such diseases as salmonella, herpes B,
Unfortunately, some exotic pets can also carry exotic diseases, requiring extra attention from owners
25 August 2011 GAZETTE 13
GazetteGAMING GAMING Digging into a world of wonder For example, by attacking a tree with your bare hands, you can break off raw wood. This wood can then be split to create sticks, or combined to create, say, a rudimentary wooden axe (to chop down trees faster), or a basic pickaxe. With a pickaxe, the player can then mine some stone from the ground/hills, creating a stronger pickaxe, or mining blocks of stone. By following this basic pattern of splitting some materials, or combining others, and by experimenting with combinations of raw materials, the player can rapidly create a wide range of tools and objects. So, whether the player simply wants to build a tiny cottage, or a vast city – and teams of people
This randomly-generated Minecraft world is just waiting for the player to make their mark, whether by planting more trees, digging for treasure, building a canal or even an entire city – whatever the player wants
all over the world have created some truly vast cities and exotic worlds – Minecraft has more than enough scope to do so. And, considering that the coders say that it’s clever enough for a single Minecraft world to be many times the size of the
surface of the earth, the players need never see, or do, the same thing twice, per “level” or world. Started as a single programmer’s experimental dabbling with worldbuilding, Minecraft has, in a couple of short years, spiralled into a small
team of coders, programming and modifying this world-building program – it’s debatable if it can even be called a game – that has seen tens of millions of users pay for their own pre-release copy. With games regularly lambasted as being too
violent, or mindless, repetitive and numbing, it’s a pleasure to highlight one of several titles that celebrates creativity, and one that is as unique as each individual user. For further details, or to sign up, see www. minecraft.net.
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WITH a whole world of gaming to dig into, where to begin with a regular column? Well, by looking at a world that’s all about digging. Literally. Minecraft has taken the widely-used gaming terms “open world” and “sandbox” to create a single genre of its very own on PC (with an IOS version also in the works). Some clever coding randomly, yet procedurally, generates worlds that are made by uniformlysized squares, each of which has a different texture – such as for grass, earth, sand, etc – along with different physical and, in some cases, physics-related properties. By wandering around the world like a modernday Robinson Crusoe,
Minecraft continues to create the world you’re wandering in. Rivers, lakes, forests, seas, lava flows and more form as the player moves, complete with vegetation and wildlife, while day and night cycle through, and the weather changes, depending on whether you’re in a desert, forest or snow area. And yet, the expansive surface of the world is only part of the Minecraft experience, as the world also generates vast cave and tunnel systems underneath, where coal, iron, gold and diamonds wait to be mined, and then used. “Minecraft” relates to the way that the world works – by mining (or processing) away, the world is permanently reshaped by your actions.
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SHANE DILLON
14 GAZETTE 25 August 2011
GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Cruising the Arabian Gulf with special travel packages from Thomas Cook Cruises CRUISING the Arabian Gulf is sure to conjure up exotic images in the minds of even the most seasoned of travellers, but a special package from Thomas Cook Cruises this December makes it a very accessible option for the everyday holidaymaker. On board the distincAl Jahili Fort at sunset tively grand Brilliance of the Seas, the voyage takes in the famous names of this most alluring part of the world, starting in Dubai, moving on to Fujairah followed by two days in Muscat in the Sultan of Oman. Then it’s on to Abu Dhabi and back to Dubai. With endless sunshine and endless pre-Christmas shopping, a visit to the Emirates at this time of year makes for a complete getaway. The 10-day trip from Thomas Cook Cruises includes flights from Dublin and an overnight stay in 4-star Hilton Hotel in Dubai, as well as port taxes and gratuities on board. For the December 5 departure, prices start from just €1,059 per person. All Thomas Cook Cruise bookings are fully bonded so money is secured. To book or to order a brochure call the Thomas Cook Cruise team in Dublin on 0818 200 101, or visit your local travel agent.
Discovering the cultural hotspots of Scotland MIMI MURRAY
STEEPED in history, Scotland is the perfect place for a whistle-stop tour of its many museums, cultural sites and iconic buildings. We decided to pack our three-day trip with as much culture as possible and made our way from Edinburgh, to Stirling and back to Glasgow, devouring as much as we could. There are a surprising number of brand new cultural hotspots that have opened or will open in Scotland in the next couple of months and visitors with an interest in arts and culture will be spoilt for choice this year. We started out in Edinburgh, during the Fringe Festival, so the city was absolutely buzzing with creativity and excitement. We were treated to a sneak preview of the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, which will re-open on November 30, St Andrew’s Day, after a closure of two years. It is being massively upgraded and redevel-
oped in a project that aims to restore and reveal much more of the building than ever before. The gallery will be able to show many more works of art, introducing a new, regularly changing display programme. The many iconic figures on show include Mary, Queen of Scots, William Wallace and Sean Connery. Later that day, we stopped into the National Museum, which has undergone a multimillion pound refurbishment. This is an awesome building, which is a perennial site to visit for locals and will be jaw-dropping for visitors. This massively popular museum has reopened after a £46 million refurbishment with a new layout. This will enable much greater access to the collections, an improved visitor experience, as well as a greater appreciation of the iconic Victorian building. An exciting display for kids are the flying animals and mammals. Other
An exciting display of flying animals and mammals in the National Museum of Scotland. Picture: Rob McDougall
highlights include Egyptian mummies, precious rocks and stones, as well as a mishmash of truly interesting artefacts that, in some way, connect to Scotland and its rich history. The following day we made our way to Stirling. It has just been given city status and the old town, which is on a steep drive to the castle, is extremely pretty. The castle is very striking and majestic and locals say that if you held on to Stirling, you held on to Scotland. From the castle walls, you can see the iconic bridge where William Wallace launched his famous battle against the English and, even though the Scottish were outnumbered, they routed the English. Mary, Queen of Scots, was born in the palace, which has been brought back to its former glory and re-enactments take place in the castle throughout the day. Our friendly guide told us that, in the morning, the staff regularly find an indentation on the bed in which Mary’s mother, Mary of Guise, would sleep. Every castle needs a ghost and this one sounds benevolent! The £12 million project has returned the six ground-floor apartments in the castle’s Renaissance palace to how they may have looked in the mid16th century. The work has already uncovered fascinating historical finds and insights into this peri-
The spectacular Riverside
od of history, including the remains of what may have been a 15th-century knight killed in battle and buried beneath the floor of a previously unknown royal chapel. Next it was on to Glasgow and the spectacular Riverside Museum, which was designed by star architect, Zaha Hadid. This was her first major public commission in the UK and the characteristically bold, flowing shapes of the building are already winning fans. It houses the Transport Museum, which really is one of the most interesting and wellthought-out exhibitions I have ever been to. Some nice places to eat in Edinburgh include Lancers Brasserie in the more upmarket area of Stockbridge. Di Maggio’s is great for families in both Edinburgh and Glasgow. Stravaigans in Glasgow’s West End is great for brunch and the Ubiqitous Chip is definitely worth a look. We flew to Scotland with Aer Lingus, which operates several flights to and from Edinburgh and Glasgow each day. For more information, go to www.visitscotland. com/surprise.
25 August 2011 GAZETTE 15
Edited by Mimi Murray
WeddingTravel Helping remove the hassle of planning a wedding abroad
National Museum of Scotland. Picture: National Museums Scotland
Museum, designed by architect, Zaha Hadi. Picture: Rob McDougall
National Portrait Gallery. Picture: National Museums Scotland
WHETHER you wish to marry in the beautiful Old Town of Dubrovnik, or at one of Cyprus’s romantic beachfront locations, Concorde Travel can offer assistance with arrangements and remove the hassle from the most important day in a couple’s lives. The new Concorde Wedding brochure includes the ever popular destinations of Cyprus, Croatia, Montenegro and Malta and the new exciting wedding option of the Algarve in Portugal. Understanding that every wedding is unique and that organising a wedding abroad can be time consuming and demanding, Concorde Travel aim to offer a personalised service that is focused on making your day unforgettable and stress free. The typical starting price for a wedding package abroad is €4,000 and includes wedding fees, travel and hotel for bride and groom, catering for 30 guests, photography, music, flowers, bridal hair and make-up. Visit www. concordetravel.ie to inquire or book your wedding with Concorde Travel today.
16 SWORDS GAZETTE 25 August 2011
GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1
GoingOUT GoingOUT PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Treasure Island BALLET Ireland’s annual summer school sets sail for the Pavilion Theatre with a twist on the classic tale of Treasure Island, which is being presented by the participants of the summer school. Four highly-skilled dancers from Ballet Ireland’s core company are leading the participants, preparing and training everyone for the grand finale. Running this week, and concluding on Friday, August 26, the final show promises to be a wonderful treat for all ballet and dance fans. For full details, see www.paviliontheatre.ie
THE HELIX 01 700 7000 Summer Films AS PART of its summer season of family films, The Helix still has a number of favourites for all to enjoy. Running at 2pm, and priced €6, €4 conc, or €20 season ticket (phone booking only), Fantastic Mr Fox plays on Saturday, August 27; and Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory on September 3, with both films promising to bring a great conclusion to the enjoyable season.
THE MILL 01 296 9340 Mountains to the Sea DLR Book Festival 2011 ALREADY proving to be one to watch out for, The Mill is gearing itself up for the upcoming Mountains to the Sea DLR Book Festival 2011, which will take place at the popular Dundrum venue on Wednesday, September 7 and Thursday, September 8, and will see authors such as Roddy Doyle taking part. For full details of the festival’s events, see www.milltheatre.ie.
Jim Sturgess and Anne Hathaway cross paths, again and again and again in One Day, just one of a number of new films on current release
A mixed bag of films Still in the lull of late summer, there’s a variety of passable films out there, yet nothing especially eye-catching, says Kate KATE CROWLEY
IT OCCURS to me that, now that the school holidays are finally ending, and with colleges also soon to resume, we grown-ups will finally have a bit more peace and quiet at cinemas, once the bloomin’ kids are packed off to one educational institution or another. So, as much as I’ll miss darling Crowleyetta once her studies resume, I’d like to flag up a whole range of films that a postsummer audience may wish to avail of – or to avoid, in some cases. And, if any of your childer are still enjoying time off – or, indeed, if you’re one of our lovely young readers with an interest in cinema – there are a couple of films here which they may be interested in ... Spy Kids: All the Time in the World (PG, 89mins, ) is one that only the least demanding of chil-
FILMS OF THE WEEK: Various to (PG to 16) Directors: Various Starring: Spying children, an inventive Death, a Lovely Girl, one vengeful barbarian and lots of tuneful young people
OUR VERDICT: WHILE Cowboys and Aliens has been chasing, roping and then beaming up plenty of audiences at the Box Office recently, several other films have also charged onto the screen, with Kate warning that some are particularly avoidable, while the rest are merely passable. Still, she says: “It’s the summer season, so what else can we expect at the cinema?” Quite.
dren could warm to, as the long-running series gets reheated for, what, its 5th film? The 17th? Cinemagoers can surely spy better family- and child-friendly films than this tired addition, which is full of clumsy editing, shoddy effects, noise and confusion. Spy Kids – it’s time to retire. Moving on from children to teens and young adults, and Final Destination 5 (16, 92mins, ) is another franchise sequel. Once again, some lucky youngsters somehow miss an accident
that was supposed to kill them – only to then find that Death has inventive ways of finishing them off, one by one, in unlikely scenarios. Admittedly, this sounds like a carbon copy of the four prequels, but – sssh – that doesn’t seem to bother fans, directors, or the studios that keep bankrolling the sequels. So, for those looking to see annoying characters struck by debris from an airplane, this is the film for you. One day, we’ll be free of such cozily formulaic films – and, speaking of
cozily formulaic, here’s One Day (12A, 107mins, ), the latest Anne Hathaway rom-com vehicle attempting to persuade audiences to hand her the Lovely Girl crown. Time and again, regular gal Hathaway crosses paths with posho Jim Sturgess on the same day, year in, year out, until they gradually come to realise that perhaps sweet, sweet love is why they keep meeting. Awww. I expect this film to do marvellously, though I suspect that it’s a film that Mr Crowley, and his ilk, would have to be forced at gunpoint to attend. He’d probably say much the same in reverse about Conan The Barbarian (15A, 112mins, ), which is continuing Hollywoods’ interest in rebooting old franchises or individual films. Best summarised as “Single barbarian, seeks vengeance”, Conan wan-
ders through typically brutal fantasy lands, battling henchmen, monsters, a sorceress and Ron Perlman. I can’t dislike anything with Ron Perlman as much as I should, so I’ll let this Barbarian pass. Finally, Glee: The 3D Concert Movie (PG, 84mins, ) is one of those films that is practically review-proof, and review-redundant, as, much like a banana, everyone knows what Glee is, and what to expect. As such, the hit TV show takes a turn on the big screen, with its stars delivering a concert experience that fans will doubtless love and enjoy, but not quite certain cinema reviewers. And there you have it – a mixed bag of not especially tempting offerings, but not to worry, as once the school holidays are behind us, we can always bank on more interesting films being released.
25 August252011 August SWORDS 2011 GAZETTE 17
COLLEGEOPTIONS OPTIONS
Exploring THIRD-LEVEL education
| HIGHER EDUCATION |
New life begins for students Q DAWN LOVE
IT’S been a tough year for thousands of second level students in the Greater Dublin area. Firstly, there was the build-up to the Leaving Cert, then the stress that comes from actually sitting it and then the weeks that follow, waiting anxiously for results. T his week, in our s e ve n - p a g e C o l l e g e Options guide, we feature some of Dublin’s top colleges, including Maynooth University, Senior College in Dun Laoghaire, IT Blanch and St Laurence’s College. Gazette reporter Hiromi Mooney recalls
LOCAL
MATTERS SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS Access to higher education means a level playing field for students as they consider their options
her daunting first days at university, and some of our best-known TDs talk about their college years. While many students will have obtained the
results they wanted, some will have missed out on their chosen courses and degrees. This week, we speak to the President of USI, Gary Redmond, about
his top tips and advice if you didn’t get the points and the course you had hoped for. He also gives some sterling advice on how to get through the first
few weeks of student life. And, whatever course you decide on over the coming weeks, we wish all our students the very best of luck.
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18 GAZETTE 25 August 2011
COLLEGEOPTIONS OPTIONS AIB launch a new student website AIB have announced they are launching a dedicated student website, www. stuff4students.ie, which will be offering exclusive discounts and offers for students, not only in first year but in all years in college. The site will also contain information on managing finances for students. One of the key components of AIB’s 2011 Student communication campaign is the ongoing dialogue with students through www.stuff4students.ie. Some of the key features of the site will be the budgeting tool, weekly/ monthly competitions, relevant articles with advice and blogs on surviving your college years.
Exploring third-level education
| WHAT NEXT? |
Dun Laoghaire centre is the place for answers
Solid choices: Good advice from DIT SIOBHAN O’Donnell, a furniture design graduate at DIT, is just one
of the many graduates from the college pushing the envelope of their careers after attending the institution. Students have never had such a range of CAO options to choose from, or so much advice from every quarter, and Head of Admissions in DIT, Frank Costello, said: “Before accepting an offer, be sure that you know what’s involved in the programme and that you are enthusiastic about undertaking it – after that, start looking forward to your college career!”
STUDENTS who have recently received their L e av i n g C e r t i f i c a t e results and are asking, “What’s next?”, can find answers galore in a new publication from Dun Laoghaire Youth Information Centre called What’s Next? It provides information about the types of grants available, a list of colleges and courses, and where to repeat your Leaving Certificate. The guide also contains information for former students who want to get a job instead of going to college, or who want to take a gap year, which can provide a breathing space or time
out from the pressures of studying. The free publication explores all these options, and is available from the Youth Centre on Library
They have also produced information leaflets on student finance, accommodation and evening classes, as well as student guides to the
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‘The Centre is holding an exhibition on What’s Next? throughout the months of August and September’ --------------------------------------------------------
Road, beside Playcentre, in Dun Laoghaire . Dun Laoghaire Youth Information Centre is also holding an exhibition on What’s Next? throughout the months of August and September in the Youth Information Centre.
Dun Laoghaire area. For more information, contact the centre at info@youthquest.ie, or call them on 280 9363. The centre is open every weekday, and the staff will be happy to help with any query you may have.
WE HAVE 146,000* READERS EACH WEEK *based on standard industry measurements
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25 August 2011 GAZETTE 19
Essential reading for Leaving Cert students
Homeopathy workshop
| VIEW FROM THE USI PRESIDENT |
Next steps for college success Q GARY REDMOND
ALTHOUGH it has only been a matter of weeks, secondary school, and the stressful ordeal of the Leaving Certificate, must seem like a very distant memory. The unbearable anticipation and long wait for the results has finally ended. In recent days, you’ve probably either been online or opened that all-important CAO letter. This represents a new chapter in your life. So, what should your next step be? If you’ve secured your place in college, the next
thing you must do is check if you qualify for a maintenance grant. All the information you need, including the application form, can be found on www.studentfinance.ie. On this website, you will also find other helpful information on scholarships, bursaries and other financial assistance that may be available. If you qualify for a grant, either download the form or complete it online, enlisting the help of your parents if necessary. Get your application in as soon as possible, so that you will receive your grant payment in good
time. The earlier you return the form, the more likely you are to receive your first grant payment close to the start of the college term. Last year, due to a number of factors, many students didn’t receive their first grant payment until after Christmas and, in some cases, as late as March or even April. If, on the other hand, you didn’t get what you expected either in your Leaving Cert results or in the CAO – don’t panic. If you didn’t get your top choice on the CAO consider accepting a lower choice if it was
Gary Redmond is the president of the Union of Students Ireland
offered as you may still get offered a higher choice in the following rounds. On the other hand, there are many PLC courses that will allow you entry into to college next year, and repeating the Leaving Cert is always another option. The good news is that there are many differ-
ent options out there, so take the next few days to relax, think things over and seek advice from your career guidance teacher. The key to college life is that you will reap what you sow, so get involved as much as possible: take up a new sport, join some college societies and try something that you’ve
never done before. Your student years will probably be the best years of your life - expect action, fun, but also stress! And, through it all, bear in mind that you can drop into your students’ union at anytime and they’ll be happy to help keep the experience as memorable as possible. Best of luck!
THE Irish School of Homeopathy will be running a Get Started in Homeopathy workshop at Milltown College in Ranelagh on September 4. T h e wo r k s h o p i s designed for those who would like to use homeopathy at home for themselves and their families. During the workshop, participants will be taught how to prescribe for common acute complaints (sudden and short-term conditions) such as coughs, colds, flu, and first-aid remedies. Also covered are children’s remedies for teething, stomach bugs and exam nerves. For further information, contact Angie Murphy, Irish School of Homeopathy, on 01-8682581, or email info@ish.ie
20 GAZETTE 25 August 2011
COLLEGEOPTIONS OPTIONS Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge offered THE popular Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge programme at NUI Maynooth resumes this autumn. Students of the course can expect to vastly improve their level of Irish through discussion and debate in classes, attendance at lectures on various aspects of Irish language and culture and a weekend in the Kerry Gaeltacht. This course is suitable for people who already have reasonable competence in the language. For those who may not be ready for this year’s enrolment, the Language Centre’s Teastas Eorpach na
Gaeilge (TEG) learning system will bring prospective Dioplóma students up to the required standard. Assessment
TEG is a system of Irish language learning and assessment at five levels, from beginners to advanced. This year, TEG Level B2 was given official recognition by the Department of Education and Skills as meeting the Irish language requirement for the colleges of primary education. For further information, see www.nuim. ie/language or www. teg.ie.
Exploring third-level education
| ASHFIELD COLLEGE OPENS ITS DOORS |
Students welcomed THIS September, Ashfield College will open its doors to a new cohor t of fif th year, sixth year and repeat Leaving Certificate students from Lucan. Not only will there be a new intake of students, there are other new faces at the college - and some less new than others. With maximum class sizes of 25 students, Ashfield College, Templeogue, is building on its longstanding reputation for offering students the very best tuition in a friendly, and student-focused environment, with the return of the school’s founder, Joe Griffin, a familiar name throughout the local community.
Ashfield College has a fine track record of academic success
Griffin has 40 years experience as an educationalist and has been a mentor to thousands of students in their studies. From the beginning, Joe Griffin has put a focus on small class-sizes and individual student attention from top-class
teachers. Griffin says he is delighted to return for the 2011/2012 academic year. “A s h f i e l d C o l l e g e has traditionally been a popular choice for Leaving Certificate students from Lucan,” said Griffin. “Since the school’s
foundation over 30 years ago I have had the privilege of seeing so many students from all over Ireland reach their potential under the guidance of some of the finest teachers in the country. “It is an honour to witness a new beginning
for such a wonderful resource. I believe that now, more than ever, Ashfield College is the logical choice for ambitious Leaving Certificate students.” Students will also be able to avail of comprehensive study notes covering the entire syllabus, which are provided on the first day of term, as well as video classes and class notes available online through Ashfield Online, the school’s e-learning portal. Philip Burke, the new chief executive, who was a student of the school from 1990-1991, says that the community atmosphere he experienced during his Leaving Certificate year is integral to the school’s teaching ethos and success. “When I prepared for my Leaving Certificate in Ashfield College in the early 1990s every teacher knew every student by name, and everyone was on first-name terms,” explains Burke. “The key to the school’s success is in its philosophy of individual attention. Every student is an individual, with their own specific requirements. Potential
“Every teacher is a gifted communicator who is expert at helping students maximise their potential for exam success. It really is a community and that makes all the difference at such an important and often stressful time in young people’s lives.” Founded in 1977, the school is situated on acres of landscaped gardens in a peaceful south Dublin location, away from the distractions of the city centre but easily accessible by public transport. It has been fully refurbished with state-of-the-art facilities, including specialised teaching rooms for all 21 subjects offered.
25 August 2011 GAZETTE 21
Essential reading for Leaving Cert students
Respond to UCD’s housing studies course Q news@gazettegroup.com
THE Respond! Housing Association, in partnership with University College Dublin (UCD). is set to offer mature students the opportunuty to study for a Bachelor of Social Studies in Housing & Community Studies (BSS), a parttime four-year degree. The course is designed
for adult learners, who wish to return to education while maintaining a positive work life balance. The Respond! offering is the only degree of its kind in Ireland. T he BSS employs a multi-disciplinar y approach in its analysis of housing, community development, social policy and aspects of
management. The degree is accredited by University College Dublin (UCD) and students gain professional membership of the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH), with access to work placements throughout the degree. Lectures are delivered two days each month in Dublin at the Respond!
campus in Drumcondra, or the UCD campus in Belfield. Tutorials are held in various venues in order to accommodate students. Further information about the course can be obtained by visiting w w w.respond.ie, by contacting 0818 357901 or emailing bsscourse@ respond.ie.
A wide range of information technology courses are on offer at Dorset College
| CAREER OPPORTUNITIES |
Consider a future at Dorset College IN THESE challenging times, students need to consider things beyond the score of their immediate preferences when considering what courses to do in college. Dorset College is striking out to meet the needs of students and future employers in its offerings, and the courses reflect the current requirements of the workplace and provide excellent prospects and career development opportunities. In the information technology space, Dorset College is offering courses to enhance career opportunities, and meet the needs of the shortage of
personnel in the expanding Information Technology sector, from Beginner to Advanced level. Options
With the likes of courses in Computer S y s t e m s E n g i n e e ring, Cloud Technology Professional, Oracle Java Programmer, Oracle Database Associate Administration, or taking the CompTIA A, +CISCO CCNA or Microsoft Server Administrator courses, there is a wide range of options for students. Students also need to consider and ensure that they get the right quali-
fications to commence their career paths with security, financial rewards and mobility. The full-time HETAC Higher Certificate in Business Level 6 will provide students with a strong foundation in a range of specialised business areas such as Business Management and Organisation, Information Technology, Finance and Law. The FETAC Nursing Studies, FETAC Social Studies and the Multimedia Production Courses provide an opportunity to acquire new skills, competencies and knowledge leading to a career path in
that field. As an alternative to repeating the Leaving Certificate, these courses provide direct entry to third level Certificate and Degree programmes in the Institutes of Technology and Universities in Ireland. The college’s suite of full-time programmes also includes the ACCA Diploma in Accounting & Business, ACCA Qualification, and Computer System Engineer (CompTIA A+ & CISCO–CCNA). For further details, contact Dorset College at 01 830 9677 or log on to www.dorset-college.ie
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22 GAZETTE 25 August 2011
COLLEGEOPTIONS OPTIONS
Minister for Children Where did you go to school? I went to the Dominican Convent, Sion Hill in Blackrock Where did you go to college? I did a Degree in Social Sciences, in UCD. A few years after that I did a Masters in the London School of Economics in Social Work and Social Administration. Your first job after college? After UCD, I worked in a small children’s hospital called St Ultan’s which has since closed. While there I worked with disadvantaged families whose children were being treated in the hospital. After that, I went on to do my Masters and to get Certified as a Social Worker.
Developing the skills for life LAST month saw the third set of Leaving Certificate students attend The Homework Club, and the club’s founder, Dr Naoise O’Reilly, is starting to see a pattern developing in the approach needed, to not only survive the trials of the exams, but succeed in your dreams. “We feel everyone is not only good at something, but can use this experience to do anything,” said Naoise. “We try to develop the skills for life.” The Homework Club, based in Main Street, Blanchardstown, takes a
more holistic approach to study. “Before starting with each student, together we assess their strengths, aptitudes and potential to guide the students towards an achievable goal, one they desire and enjoy. “We don’t believe in cram-learning and unnecessary stress,” says Naoise. “The best analogy I can give you is making an omelette. If you wanted to make an omelette you wouldn’t worry about what goes in to it, you just simply open the fridge and see what’s to hand.
We never worry about learning off cookbooks. For everyday meals we simply know from experience what works and may just check a few details like the temperature and cooking time. “Study is exactly the same, regardless of the subject. If you understand it, and can relate to the material in a way, there is no need to learn off endless information. You simply need to develop your own skills to remember the important details, like the cooking time! The rest will come naturally. “Similarly, in this cur-
The Homework Club aim to deliver skills for all students’ working lives
rent climate it’s possible that you will get slightly challenging exam papers in June. This has happened for a number of years now, and seems to coincide with the increased pressure in the education system. We try to develop coping strategies in our students so they can survive in these situations. To go back to
our omelette analogy, you should find yourself in a position in the exams to simply open the fridge in your mind and pull out whatever ingredients you need. “Being able to stay calm and focused, work your way out of the situation and relate what you do know to the questions you are being asked.
These are not only skills for the Leaving Certificate but for life after. “We have seen almost all of our students thrive in the last three years with this very simple outlook.” For more details on The Homework Club, contact Naoise at 085 1129660, or visit their website at www.homeworkclub.ie
gazette
photos
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Frances Fitzgerald TD
| THE HOMEWORK CLUB |
www.
Q&A
Exploring THIRD-LEVEL education
Joan Burton TD Minister for Social Protection Where did you go to college? I went to UCD on a scholarship What did you study? Bachelor of Commerce and then Chartered Accountancy. What was your first job after leaving college? Trainee Chartered Accountant with Price Waterhouse What advice would you give students heading to college for the first time this year? Enjoy every moment and work hard!
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25 August 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 23
Essential reading for Leaving Cert students
| COLLEGE LIFE |
Facing your first year Gazette Reporter, Hiromi Mooney, recalls her first few days at University RIGHT, now that you’ve got your Leaving Cert and have gone through the CAO process, it’s now time to face your first year in college. Yes, it’s a big step – new surroundings, new people, and sometimes a new home. I began my life in college two years ago. Of course, there are both advantages and disadvantages to whether you commute or live on campus. I chose to stay at home and commute by two buses – two hours each way. It was tiring and took a lot out of my day, but it was cheap and the journey was made shorter when I had an iPod – when the battery hadn’t died. I went to college on my first day on my own and I knew nobody. A few people in my class knew each other or were from the same area, so they established their cliques very quickly, and I was completely out of my comfort zone. It was very nervewracking. But the more I got talking to people, I realised that a lot of them were just like me – scared, feeling lost and wanting to make friends. And we did. I then discovered that college life makes you completely responsible for everything you do. You now have no teacher chasing you for your homework, or have your parents nagging you to study for your tests. On your own
You are now in charge of making it to those 9am lectures, meeting deadlines, making your own notes and study plan, and, if you’re living alone for the first time, you have to start cooking your own dinners and doing your own washing. But this gives you great independence and freedom. Plus, there’s a great social life in college. When you hear college
Gazette reporter, Hiromi Mooney
people say “join clubs and societies,” take their advice on board. They can help you make new friends outside of your classes in college, take up a new hobby and learn some new skills – whether it’s dancing, juggling,
radio or surfing. Get involved and try something new. Now I’m starting my final year in college and, looking back, I have achieved so much in the past two years. I have made a new circle of
friends, I’ve been able to balance the time between projects, social life, work and all that. So, what’s my advice? Embrace college life with open arms, enjoy every moment and make the most of it. Good luck!
24 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 25 August 2011
GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs TOYOTA TOPS US BRAND SATISFACTION INDEX: GENERAL Motors’ Cadillac brand and Toyota’s Lexus range topped the recent American Customer Satisfaction Index’s annual ranking of car companies. Toyota was the only nonpremium brand in the top five, tying with Cadillac and Lexus with 87 points on a scale of 100, followed by Lincoln and Mercedes-Benz with 86. BMW was in 11th place receiving 83 points, dropping three points to its lowest mark since an 80-point ranking in 1997. Volkswagen’s ranking showed the largest percentage increase, while the Ford brand also rose. Among the seven Asian brands in the index, all but Mazda recorded an increase. Honda, Hyundai, Kia and Nissan all recorded increased rankings.
Toyota’s new Verso S is a practical and easy-to-drive mini MPV. The car has a petrol engine-only option that’s a big sluggish on the road, but the entry price is competitive at €16,995 for the basic version that has all of the safety features.
The practical Verso S If you are thinking of downsizing your motoring then the new Toyota Verso S may well be a car worth giving more attention to, as MICHAEL MORONEY reports following his recent test drive OYO TA’ S n e w Verso S was a car that I quickly got comfortable with. I mean that, once behind the wheel, it was easy to drive and all of the controls were logically and conveniently placed. That gave me an instant good feeling about the car. I found that I got used to this car easily and it was comfortable to drive. The high seating position gives great visibility for everybody on board. This new Verso neatly fills a gap in the Toyota range left after the small Yaris Verso of the past. The new car is slightly bigger, more modern looking and uses a newer petrol engine.
T
SPECS: TOYOTA VERSO S 1.33 Top speed: 170 km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 13.3 sec Economy: 18.1 km/litre (5.5l/100km) CO2 emissions: 127g/km Road Tax Band: B (€156) Euro NCAP Rating: 5 Star (2011) Warranty: 3 years or 100,000km Entry Price: €16,995
Toyota offers only one engine option for the new Verso S. This is petrolfuelled, which is a bit surprising as over 70% of all new cars sold are now diesel-powered. Toyota has some good diesel engines in its line-up, but not for the Verso S. The engine is a
1.33-litre, four-cylinder unit – it’s reasonably smooth and quiet in operation. It is rated at 99bhp and, like many petrol engines, needs to rev to 4,000 rpm to get the maximum torque. When that is linked with a six-speed gearbox the car should be lively and thrifty. My test drive found the car not as lively as I had expected. The engine needed to go to 3,000rpm, even in sixth gear, to reach 120km/hr on the motorway, and that meant that it was not as thrifty as I had expected. Relative to the competition, the acceleration performance at 13.3 seconds for a 0 to 100km/
hr race is reasonable. I found it somewhat sluggish from behind the wheel. My test run of about 580km used a full 42-litre tank of fuel. That meant that I achieved about 20% less than the rated economy level of 18km/ litre (51mpg). That bit disappointed me because, if I had achieved the rated performance, the car could have driven on for over 200km more! Some of that difference may be due to my driving style and the varied road conditions. Despite all of those variables, I was less impressed with its economy figures. The CO2 rating at 127g/km puts the car
into Band B for road tax purposes and that means an annual road tax rate of just €156. Again, that’s as good as it gets for a small petrol-engine car. Relative to the competition, which includes the Honda Jazz, Hyundai ix20, Opel Meriva and Nissan Note, the Verso S was the class leader in economy terms. Everything else about the car impressed me. The second-level specification Luna version, which I drove, included the new Toyota, 6.1 inch, full colour, touch screen system called Toyota Touch. This provides drives with a comprehensive multimedia interface. It incorporates an AM/FM radio,
a CD/MP3 player, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, a USB port for the connection of portable music players, a trip information screen and a rear view camera. The Verso S has a comprehensive safety package on board. The car has seven airbags, driver and front passenger airbags, a driver’s knee airbag, front side airbags and full-length side curtain shield airbags. The Verso S comes with a three-year warranty and a service interval of 20,000km or 12 months. Those features will ensure low running costs, as servicing this petrol car should not cost more than €150.
Volkswagen is the new partner to Irish Rugby Team VO L K S WAG E N I r e l a n d h a s announced that it will be the official motor partner of the Irish Rugby football Union (IRFU) until 2016. This partnership complements Volkswagen’s existing relationship with Leinster
Rugby. The partnership also includes supporting the IRFU tag rugby programme, alongside Volkswagen’s Leinster rugby summer camps. As rugby reaches fever pitch in September, Volkswagen will host a series
of Breakfast Roadshows prior to the games within various Volkswagen retailers across the country. These events will give Volkswagen customers the chance to watch the games with selected rugby heroes. The Breakfast
Roadshow will also include a competition, where Volkswagen customers will be in with the chance to bring five friends to an upcoming match involving one of Volkswagen’s brand ambassadors.
25 August 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 25
GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS Interview: Stephen Morrissey of Bathrooms Complete
Making bathroom dreams a reality STEPHEN Morrissey runs Bathrooms Complete, located in Blackrock village. It is a successful, familyowned business that has established a reputation for quality and excellence over the last 30 years. Stephen saw that home improvement jobs can be a daunting prospect for most people, particularly when there are numerous trades involved. That is where his experience enables him to find the right design and solution for bathroom designs. A bathroom renovation by Stephen and his team always starts with the removal of the old bathroom and the preparation of the room with the highest standard of workmanship, seeing the job right through to the end with the minimum of disruption. The average bathroom is fully renovated within five days, and, once it is complete, the client can relax with the peace of mind that Stephen’s commitment to quality materials and workmanship carries a Bathrooms Complete five-year guarantee. Stephen’s showroom is open to customers, and he offers the latest designs in high-quality sanitary ware, shower enclosures, bathroom furniture, accessories, tiles and wood floors from leading European brands such as Grohe, Roca, Heritage, Jacuzzi, Merlyn, Dansani, Sonia and Boen wood floors. Stephen’s technical consultants will call to a client’s home to carry out a free survey and help design a dream bathroom. For full details, visit their web site at www.bathroomscomplete.ie or call them on 01-2832244.
Q: What was your first job? A: Picking strawberries Q: And your first pay cheque? A: 5p a punnet Q: Have you ever done a job you loathed? A: Yes, picking strawberries Q: When did you start your present job? A: 20 years ago Q: What is the best thing about your job? A: Receiving compliments about our workmanship and finished product
Q: Have you achieved anything that you once thought you could not pull off? A: Yes, getting my wife to marry me Q: What part of your working day do you ‘delegate’? A: As much as possible Q: What’s currently on your desk that shouldn’t be? A: Stuff that I forgot to delegate
KEEPING DOWN THE TAX BILL ON A RENTED PROPERTY Q – I bought a house a few years back but moved away with work. I’m now renting out the house. I was told that I can deduct a certain percentage of the contents insurance value as an expense, thereby saving on my tax bill. Is this true? Stephen - Killester A - Yes, you can offset the purchase of your contents for your rented property as an allowable expense. This does, however, also open a can of worms because, once you rent your residential property, you MUST make returns to the revenue each year by October 31 whether you are making profits or not. There are a number of requirements, most of which can be offset against your Rental Income Tax Liability (RITL) including: • Registering your property with the Private Tenancies Registration Board (PRTB - costs €90 for the tenancy and must be registered within 31 days or the fee doubles to €180. Multiple tenancies in one property costs €375) • Non Principal Private Residence Tax (NPPR - you pay €200 annually for every residential property that is NOT your home)
Stephen Morrissey, of family-owned Bathrooms Complete
Q&A Q: When you were a kid, what did you want to be? A: I wanted to be a binman when I was 4
ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS
Q: Is there anything about yourself that you would like to set the record straight on? A: No. It’s all true Q: What sport do you follow? A: Golf
Q: What was your last tweet/facebook status? A: Don’t have time for either Q: Describe your dream meal? A: I’m very fond of a good Irish steak
Q: What sport can you play? A: Golf
Q: Who would you rather have dinner with – Enda Kenny or Dame Edna? A: I’d prefer to eat alone
Q: What habits would you like to change? A: Missing three-foot putts
Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously? A: What money?
Q: At the moment, what are you looking forward to? A: The weekend and spending time with
Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own? A: I have a few
my family
Q: What is your guilty music, TV or movie pleasure? A: The music of REM Q: Who best represents modern Ireland – David Norris or Jedward? A: David Norris Q: What music do you have on your iPod/iPad? A: Rolling Stones, REM, True Gritt Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook? A: No one
Q: What was your worst holiday experience? A: Christmas day in Lanzarote with my family in the hospital with a tummy bug
Q: Describe your dream holiday? A: Driving a camper van across Australia
• Mortgage interest - you can claim 75% of the interest against your RITL • Maintenance - any expenses incurred in the upkeep of your property, eg changing the boiler, new taps, broken glass etc • Service charges - this generally incorporates buildings insurance for apartments and landscaping, et al • Buildings insurance - if it is not an apartment and stand-alone house insurance • Furnishings - you can offset the cost of your furniture, fixtures and fittings by 12.5% (or 1/8th) each year for eight years (keep the receipts) • Management charges - you may employ someone to look after your property. They may charge between 9% and 12% of the annual rent each year – this can be offset against your RITL.
with my family
Q: What would be your dream job? A: Professional golfer Q: What do you plan to do when you retire? A: That’s so far in the future I haven’t even thought about it
Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor
GAZETTE
26 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 25 August 2011
CASTLEKNOCKclassifieds
To advertise, call us now on 01 60 10 240 Email us at sales@gazettegroup.com
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PET SERVICES PET MINDERS Safe, Cosy, Pet Boarding. 5 minutes from Castleknock, Blanchardstown, Lucan. Call now for early booking. Call 086 8126387/01 8223690. Reasonable rates.
DOG TRAINING AND KENNELING Residential training in obedience and behavior problems for all breeds ie pulling on lead, housetraining, aggression, recall, chewing, jumping up etc., also personal protection training. Over 20 years experience having trained in the UK, USA & Germany. Qualified master dog trainer, veterinarian & dog shelter recommended. Highly trained security dogs for sale. References available,watch our dogs in action and read our many references at www.topdogtraining.com or phone 087 0514467
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MAINTENANCE From a leaking tap to a dream bathroom, We carry out all aspects of household maintenance inside and out, no jobs too small. Fully insured and registered with 35 years experience. For more information, call Joe: 086 8256004.
SALES ADVISERS required to sign up Electricity and Gas customers to discounted rates. No exp necessary, full training provided. OTE €500/Week. john@billsave.ie or call 016619505
DVD SERVICES DVD TRANSFERS Cinefilms,Photos and Slides transferred to DVD with Music and Titles added. Camcorder and Videotapes edited and transferred to DVD. Phone 01-2807838 Mobile 087-9132265
PAINTERS POLISH PROFESSIONAL PAINTING AND DECORATING Best quality. Free Quotations. No job too small. Very reasonable prices. References available on WWW.MARKCOMPANY. IE find us on FACEBOOK Please phone Mark on 0879442445
ANN SUMMERS RECRUITMENT EVENING Want to earn €4,300 in the next 3 months? Join me at the Ann Summers recruitment evening on August 31st at 7pm in the Ardmore Hotel Finglas. Interested in booking a party? Contact Sandra on 083 4093964 & receive your free party bookers goody bag.
SEWING CLASSES/ CURTAIN MAKING Beginners and Improvers 6 week Sewing Classes on Dress Making and Curtain and Roman Blind Making Starting Mid-September. Half Day workshops also resuming in October. Book your course on www. sewgreat.ie, or call 01 822 7650. Curtain and Roman Blind making service at competitive prices. We reline and re-pleat all curtains; full selection of poles and rails available.
TILING A1 TILES AND BATHROOMS Complete Bathroom Refits from Design to Installation All Tiling work carried out: Walls, Floors, Kitchens, Halls, Bathrooms etc., supply & Fit Family Run Business over 30 years experience. All Work Guaranteed. Phone 086 8256003.
PLANNING NOTICE FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL Kieran O’Neill (Secretary) Castleknock Community Centre Association apply for Variation to existing conditions of the All Weather Pitch facility, Castleknock Rise, Dublin 15, to permission F02A/0007 for all-weather facility by extending hours of operation to new time, 7am until 10pm. Scoil Thomas NS will continue to retain preferential access but variation to make facility 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. 13366
25 August 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 27
GazetteSPORT
LONDON IN FOCUS: Exclusive interview with David Gillick on his 2012 hopes: Page 29
GAA: ETIHAD EXPAND BEST CLUB CONTEST TO AUSTRALIA FOR MATCH OF A LIFETIME
Fancy a trip Down Under to represent GAA? sport@gazettegroup.com
ETIHAD Airways, the UAE’s national airline and sponsor of the GAA Hu r l i n g A l l - I r e l a n d Senior Championship, is looking to send one club to Australia to play the challenge match of a lifetime. Etihad is asking clubs around the countr y to tell them what their greatest achievement is. Achievement comes
in many forms, not just silverware. Etihad wants to reward one special club for their greatest achievement; whether that is being the focal point of their community, or managing to keep the club going against the odds or even growing their club in recent times. The winning club will get its first team flown all the way to Australia, where they will train with GAA legend
Nicky English ahead of the challenge game of a lifetime. On October 28, the Best Club Down Under will play an Australian select team as the curtain raiser for the International Rules match between Ireland and Australia in the Etihad Stadium, Melbourne. Lucan Sarsfields were the Best Club Under The Sun in Dubai in 2009, after netting the prized honour in that
Lucan Sarsfields were voted best club under the sun in 2009, and are seen here in Dubai
year’s equivalent competition.
Oz adventure Justin Warby, Etihad Airways Country Manager Ireland, said: “The GAA and hurling has spread far and wide across the globe and
is particularly strong in Australia. We, as an airline, are about connecting people around the world and the Best Club Down Under competition marries both these elements perfectly. We hope to see clubs from every corner
of the country entering The Best Club Down Under.” As part of Etihad’s sponsorship of the GAA All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship 2011, every club in the country is invited to nominate itself to become
The Best Club Down Under and the public will then be asked to vote for the club they feel deserves to win. To enter this year’s competition just log onto www.etihadgaa.ie and fill out the form to nominate your club.
28 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 25 August 2011
GazetteSport Sport
Stephen O’Shaugnessy at Westmanstown
Training camp
Paul Clarke passes on his wisdom to the young Gaels who attended his masterclass
Masters on the march
ESTMANSTOWN Gaels recently organised a series of masterclass sessions for their young players to benefit from the wisdom of some of the greats of the Dublin GAA scene. The sessions were held over the course of last week and featured ex-Dublin footballers, Paddy Christie and Stephen O’Shaugnessy, trainer of the Dublin senior ladies, Barry Hogan, and former Meath coach, Paul Clarke. The sessions were a great success and the players learned a great deal about the finer points of the game, and the club wish to thank all of the coaches for giving up their time to help develop the Gaels.
W
Each training course was an intensive work-out
The young players were put through their paces
The Gaels were attentive students
Westmanstown Gaels
Players learned a lot from the masters
25 August 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 29
in association with
Running for the dream again David Gillick took the tough decision to bow out of athletics to regroup for the 2012 Olympics , and ROB HEIGH found he is ready for the challenge TAKING a step back from an intensive training programme and admitting defeat is a galling thing for any competitor in any sport, but no more so than for an athlete of the calibre of David Gillick. The Dundrum man has been the flag-bearer for Irish 400m running in recent years, twice winning the European indoor title and appearing in prestige events worldwide in recent years as he prepared to take on the ultimate challenge of the Olympic Games in London in 2012. With that goal in mind, David decided to leave his base in Loughborough in England last winter to work with ath-
letics legend and coach to many of the leading lights in sprint, Lance Brauman, in Florida. Brauman was the man who helped Tyson Gay rise to the upper eschelons of 100 and 200m running. But a combination of circumstances have conspired to lead David to make the decision to bow out of competition for the season, and miss out on a place at the World Championships in South Korea, one that he explains he did not take lightly when he spoke excusively to Gazette Sport last month. “I made the decision with medical advice, and with a view on London coming around. I felt that if I was to continue
David Gillick at Lucan Harriers recently
doing what I was doing, and hope that something would turn around, or skip the Worlds and race toward the end of the season, I was jeopardis-
and the times were not good again, and I knew there was something wrong. “In my mind, I was thinking, “I’m not right,
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‘Qualification is well within my capabilities. I am getting into the training that I know is going to take me to London next year.’
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ing my health for next season. If I was in a hole now, I didn’t want to dig myself in any deeper. By making this decision, it gives me more time to get myself right, mentally and physically.” David went on to explain the circumstances behind his diminished form this season. “I tore my calf at the end of February, which put me out for about eight weeks. By the time I got back into full training on the track, it was the start of April. When I came back, I didn’t have much time, I only really had six weeks to regain my full fitness. I attacked it and did everything I could, but I had more niggles. But I raced anyway, and my times were going backwards. “I knew in myself that I wasn’t right - I would be waking up in the morning and I would have pains in my legs. So I then raced in early July,
this isn’t good”, and mentally, you begin to panic. Especially with the Worlds coming up. Two years ago I was sixth, and anything less than that would have been a failure.” The experience of training with Brauman was one that was filled with positives, but there were also downsides to being so far from home and in a new training environment. “I wouldn’t change what I did in the last year, I learned an awful lot from Lance, and I will bring that into my training going forward. Being in a group with Tyson Gay and Steve Mullins, world-class athletes, you pick up a lot. It’s positive as well to see the mental aproach from these athletes just how professional they are in how they approach things. It gives you a lot of hunger. “I relocated to just outside Orlando back in
October 2010, to a new group and a new coach, and I was injured for that length of time. It was very depressing, not being able to do what I normally would be doing, and being away from home and the support network, the infrastructure of family and friends, and my own medical team I had built up, made it increasingly difficult. “In America, I missed my friends, my family, and I missed Dublin. “So I made a decision that I won’t be going back to America. I’ve decided I’m going to split my time between here and Loughborough. Coming into Olympic year, I want to be somewhere where I know it works. I’ve a good relationship with the group, the coach in Loughborough, and that’s where I want to be.” With less than 12 months before the start of London 2012, what are David’s thoughts on the year ahead? “I’m taking a confident view on it. I know I’ve run within the A standard for the last four years. Ideally, I would like to have done it this year, the year before the Games, like I did for Beijing. But I feel that the time is well within my capabilities, so it’s a case of getting into the training that I know that is going to take me there.”
FastSport
Power plays fundraiser for Temple Street kids DARTS legend, Phil “The Power” Taylor was in Donabate recently to take part in an exhibition tournament at the Waterside House Hotel. Having recently won his fourth European title, Taylor pitted himself against 15 darts fans who had raised funds for Temple Street Children’s University Hospital for the opportunity to step up to the oche with him. By his side, was another darts legend, Denis ‘The Menace’ Priestley. Over 200 darts fans descended on The Waterside House Hotel to watch these champions in action, and a great fun evening was had by all.
30 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 25 August 2011
GazetteSport Sport FastSport
Camaint feel the noise: Knock U-11s pipped to the title CASTLEKNOCK’S Under-11 hurl-
ers were denied this summer’s Camaint hurling tournament title in spite of an impressive showing against Cuala in the final at Parnell Park last week. Cuala kept their best play for the second half and came from behind to record a two-point win, but the Castleknock lads gave a very good account of themselves and will be back to fight another day.
Coolmine set for return to action in Spencer Cup
SOCCER: A ROUND-UP OF THE FIXTURES IN D15 IN NEW SEASON
COOLMINE Rugby Club’s first XV are set to face Monkstown this weekend in their first competitive clash of the season. The Spencer Cup clash will take place at Ashbrook on Friday at 8pm. The return to action comes after a busy summer that saw Coolmine manage to win both the inaugural Leinster and All-Ireland 7s titles, as well as hosting another successful summer fete, and a hugely popular tag rugby competition, which saw 30 teams taking part in the busiest competition yet. Mini’s and youths’ registration for the club takes place on Saturday, September 3 between 10am and 1pm.
Erin Go Bragh get classic at the K Club THE annual Erin go Bragh golf classic will take place in the K Club on Friday, August 26. The format of the competition will be a scramble. To participate, a team of four costs €320. For more information please contact George Burke on 087 9709 795.
Kennedy through to AllIreland semi HANDBALL legend Eoin Kennedy is set to contest his eighth consecutive softball title after he defeated
Meath’s Brian Carroll in Abbeylara last weekend at the quarter-final stage of M Donnelly GAA Handball All-Ireland Open Singles Championships. He progresses to face Mayo’s Dessie Keegan in the semifinal. The St Brigid’s star secured the opening game, 21-16. Carroll subsequently failed to match the heights he reached in the first set and fell to a 21-7 defeat in the second. “I’m delighted with the win against Brian,” said Kennedy. “He had me under severe pressure in the first game with brilliant killing from all over the court. “Thankfully, I managed to weather the storm and he ran out of steam a bit in the second game.”
Castleknock Celtic will be happy with their opening day success at Grange/Woodbine, scoring six to take the tie in style
Fresh start for soccer sides sport@gazettegroup.com
CASTLEKNOCK Celtic got their season off to a dream start away to Grange/Woodbine, scoring six in their opening tie as they go in search of promotion to the second tier of AUL football. Celtic will know that the task ahead of them is a tough one, as they will have to face sterner opposition than was posed on Sunday, with this division set to be keenly contested. Teams like Collinstown United, who have picked up three wins from three already,
scoring ten goals in the process, Donnycarney FC and Trinity/Donaghmede all stand in the way of Castleknock should they make the leap to the second table. Also in their way will be local rivals FC Blanch, who also got their season off to a flyer against Usher Celtic, matching Castleknock’s 6-1 scoreline. For Celtic, the game was more or less over at half-time as they raced into a 3-0 lead at the break. In the second half the goals continued to come and although they
conceded, Castleknock will be delighted their performance. The highlight of the game was a top-drawer right-footer from Kevin Keane from 30 yards, which flew into the top corner and put Celtic four ahead in this away fixture. Philip Cooney hit a brace, while James Haughton, Keith Pendred and Kevin Hynes completed the rout. The intensive training programme from Peter Finn, manager, and Philip Zambra, coach, certainly proved a significant difference between the two sides
on the day, with Castleknock looking sharper and fitter on the day than their hosts. Castleknock’s Division 2A Saturday side were not so lucky as a soft penalty gave Darndale a share of the points against a Celtic side that, up until then, had made a habit of winning. Tommy Mooney got Celtic’s first, while Barry Doyle scored yet again from a corner kick and the game ended 2-2. Following on from last seasons successes, Mountview United started the season with a new Senior Sunday
side to complement their Senior Saturday side. T he Saturday side got their league season off to a flyer, overcoming St Pat’s Phoenix by three goals to one. A l r e a d y w i t h t wo games in hand, Mountview sit three points behind local rivals Pinebrook and both sides will be gunning for silverware this year, with Pinebrook seeing off St Paul’s Artane, 2-0. Mountview’s Sund ay s i d e , h owe ve r, went down 1-0 away to Simba FC in their firstever competitive game.
25 August 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 31
in association with
AFL 5: SENIORS REACH INTERMEDIATE LEVEL
History in the making as treble beckons AFL DIVISION 5 Castleknock Ballyboden St Enda’s
2-15 0-8
sport@gazettegroup.com
CASTLEKNOCK’S adult footballers a c h i e ve d w h a t i s a remarkable feat for the young club last week. They secured promotion to intermediate level, with a game to spare in the league, for the first time in the club’s history with a ruthless performance against Ballyboden St Enda’s at Somer ton Park. With their B team already having secured promotion from AFL Division 10 South, it was up to the senior team to create a fotball-
ing double for the club and set up the possibility of an historic treble should the senior hurlers win their last game against Scoil Ui Chonnail and also achieve promotion to intermediate level. The game started at a cracking pace and it was not long before Rory Corcoran at full forward put the first score on the board, which would also prove to be the first of his tally of eight points, four from frees. Centre back Peter Mulchrone was taken off after a few minutes after an injury, which could have weakened the defence, but the back line combined to
.
CLUB NOTICEBOARD CASTLEKNOCK CONGRATULATIONS to our adult A
rel Lodge who sets of on his Camino
footballers who historically won pro-
de Santiago trek in aid of St Francis
motion for the club to intermediate
Hospice.
football. With the adult B footballers
Best wishes to the Dublin senior and
also winning promotion, it has been a
minor footballers in their All-Ireland
great season and many thanks to all
semi-finals this weekend. Special
the players, management, coaches
best wishes to the five Castleknock
and all who contributed this year and
lads involved with the Dublin minor
in previous years.
squad. Tickets for the semi-finals will
A great win for our U-16 hurlers over St Brigid’s in a tremendous game of
Castleknock demolished Balyboden St Enda’s at Somerton to claim their place in AFL 4
create an impenetrable shield which repelled ever y thing that Ballyboden threw at them for the duration of the match. The Somerton men simply exerted their will on a game they knew they could not lose if their season’s target of promotion to intermediate level was to be achieved. The points kept on coming, in spite of a couple of wides, and by half-time, Castleknock had established a 10 to 1 point advantage.
Goal-bound With the promotion in their sights, Castleknock displayed a steely determination in their
task and never looked like relinquishing their lead once it was established. However, the game was effectively ended as a tie early in the second half when Paul Hughes and Matthew Griffin scored two quick-fire goals to put 14 between the sides. Hughes goal was a well-taken low shot that nestled in the back of the Ballyboden net, while Griffin scored the other barely a few moments later. A cross into the goalmouth was taken by Griffin on the full and he did not hesitate to fist the ball into the net to create a more-than-comfortable cushion that effectively secured passage to the intermediate level for the Castleknock footballers. Jamie Tunney, in midfield, won a lot of ball and launched a lot of attacks for Castleknock, and the other forwards chipped in, working hard to ensure their elevation to the higher level. This was an impressive win that stands to the work put in by the side over the course of the season, and which they can look back on as the kind of football they can aspire to when they line out at intermediate level next season.
be distributed in Brady’s on Thursday at 10pm.
hurling in Porterstown. This is after
The Castleknock nursery starts
our U-16 footballers won the Christy
back this Saturday and all kids from
Gallogly Football Tournament in Ball-
4 to 9 years old are very welcome to
inamore, Co Leitrim, last week.
drop down to CCC (Castleknock Com-
Well done to the adult B footballers
munity College) from 10am. Contact
who took part in the Gaelforce race in
our club coach, Brendan, for more
Westport in aid of HeartChildren Ire-
details on 085 132 9397. Best of luck
land. All donations are still very wel-
to all our local schools and our young
come. Contact Paul on 087 232 0678.
members who are returning to school
Best of Luck to Fr Mick from Lau-
after the summer break.
ST BRIGID’S THE final summer camp week will
Colleen Barrett, Sorcha Furlong,
run from August 22 to 25. Get your
Elaine Kelly and Noelle Healy in their
application form from www.stbrig-
All-Ireland quarter-final vs Cork
idsgaa.com.
this Saturday.
Congratulations to Paul Winters,
Senior footballers face Plunkett’s
and the Dublin minor hurlers, on
on Sunda y at 10.30am in Mar tin
their superb win over Waterford to
Savage Park. Senior 2s face Per-
reach the All-Ireland final.
egrine’s in Blakestown on Sunday
Hard luck to Alan and Daire on
at 10.30am.
their defeat to Tipp. Best of luck to
Junior A and B footballers also
Daire vs Antrim this Saturday in the
play league games on Sunday at
All-Ireland U-21 semi-final.
12pm in Russell Park.
Well done to Eoin Kennedy who
Club lotto is on its summer break
advanced in the 60x30 All-Ireland
and will resume on September 1
h a n d b a l l s i n g l e s . Eo i n f a c e s a
with a jackpot of €15,000.
quarter-final showdown vs Ducksie Walsh this Saturday. Best of luck to Aisling McKenna,
Club night at the dogs will take place on Frida y, October 2 1, in Harolds Cross.
GARDA/WESTMANSTOWN GAELS THERE were mixed fortunes for our
Please forward all outstanding mon-
intermediates this week, losing nar-
ies to Alan Lynch or Eugene O’Sullivan
rowly away to St Pat’s Donabate, but
before August 31.
winning at home to Ballymun Kickhams in league fixtures. Training continues on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7pm. The junior 1 fixture against Clontarf is rescheduled for next Thursday evening at Westmanstown at 7pm. The ladies’ training is on Mondays and Fridays at 7pm.
Reunion of 1986 intermediate championship-winning team is set for Westmanstown at 8pm on Friday, September 16. Details from Brian Keville or Eugene O’Sullivan. Westmanstown Gaels GPO Michael Ahern would like to thank everyone who participated in the recent Masterclass sessions, including Paul
The arrangements for the New
Clarke of Match-Fit Ireland, Stephen
York trip are nearly complete and
O’Shaughnessy, Barry Cahill and
full details will be circulated shortly.
Paddy Christie.
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ALL OF YOUR CASTLEKNOCK SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31
AUGUST 25, 2011
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LONDON CALLING Exclusive interview with David Gillick P29
back in action as senior leagues restart P30
CASTLEKNOCK GAA club are continuing to make history across all codes in the club, and last week set up the possibility of a hugely impressive treble when their senior footballers attained promotion from AFL Division 5. With the Junior B footballers already promoted in their league, it leaves the junior hurlers one win away from all of the club’s senior teams attaining intermediate level in their disciplines in one season. The Junior A footballers gained promotion to AFL 4 with a crushing showing against Ballyboden St Enda’s at Somerton last week, defeating the southside team 2-15 to 0-8 in a match that showed the skill and determination to succeed at the heart of the club in full glory. This was Tom McCormack’s first year as team manager, having previously been involved in coaching the Under-16 team at Castleknock, and he spoke to GazetteSport after the match, clearly dellighted with his side’s
victory in the match and in the league. “For a young club, it’s fantastic to make this step up. At the start of the year, it was our goal to get promoted, and it’s great to have achieved it for everyone involved in the team and the club. “We had to treat the game as a tough game, and the guys performed well. They knew what was at stake.” McCormack was delighted that the plan he set out when joining up with the Juniors at the start of the season had paid off. “You need to set out a target at the start of the year, and our target was to get out of the league and into a higher level of football. That is what we’ve achieved. “With Ray Holland and Sean O’Brien in the management panel, we put in a couple of months of hard training from last October before the start of the league, and I think that has stood to us throughout the campaign.
The success would not have been possible without the commitment of the players, which McCormack was quick to praise. “The players have put in an awful lot of hard work through the year. Once the league started, they were ready for what they needed to do, and it’s great to see them get their reward. “The turning point came when we beat Raheny 4-13 to 0-9 at home in the middle of June. After that, the lads really started to believe in themselves. We had a little bit of luck, but you need that in sport.” And McCormack had no doubts about his side’s capacity to compete at the higher level next season. “In the upper level, I think that they will be able to compete with anyone in that division, and be there or thereabouts when it comes to the end of the league. It will be a faster type of football, a higher standard, but I have a lot of confidence in our lads that they will be able to adapt to it.”
Castleknock have risen to the challenge at all levels
GazetteSPORT
History made as Castle climb