Castleknock

Castleknock GAZET TE FREE

YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER

INSIDE: Celebrating the 50th anniversary of the GSRMA P6-7

‘Hitting the road to see Ireland’s most scenic routes’ TRAVEL: P14.

RECYCLE THIS COPY. KEEP DUBLIN TIDY.

September mb 22, 2011

BRIDE & GROOM: Essential reading for the blushing bride-to-be P17-23

Getting the hang of it: New arrival gets used to life in Dublin Zoo Champions: Dublin lift the Sam Maguire trophy Pages 29 and 32

DUBLIN Zoo welcomed two red panda cubs, one male and one female, recently. Team Leader Eddie O’Brien said: “We are delighted with the arrival of the cubs. They are both doing very well and starting to fend for themselves. Visitors should now be able to spot them roaming around in their habitat.”

The Zoo also welcomed the birth of a female hippo calf.

Full Story on Page 3

Football: St Brigid’s celebrate Junior final win Page 31

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ..................... 6 PROPERTY ....................12 TRAVEL..........................14 ENTERTAINMENT ......... 16 BUSINESS .................... 25 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

Labour selects Nulty to fight for Dail seat ‘Party has a proud track record in Dublin West’

Q LAURA WEBB

LABOUR party grassroots in Dublin West overwhelmingly endorsed 28-year-old councillor, and Deputy Fingal Mayor, Patrick Nulty as their candidate in the upcoming byelection to fill the seat left vacant following the untimely death

of Brian Lenihan.

Nulty narrowly missed out to Lenihan on taking a seat in the General Election after an agonising final count.

Speaking at the convention this week Nulty said: “I believe that this will be a very competitive election but I believe that the track record of Labour in

Dublin West is one to be proud of. If elected on October 27 I will immediately set about campaigning on the issues that matter to this community job creation, a sustainable plan for the development of Connolly Hospital and decent public transport,” he said.

Full story on Pages 4-5

2 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 22 September 2011

NATIONAL TRAILS’ DAY: 36 KM GREEN LOOP

New trail launch THE official launch of the Green Loop Trail will take place on September 26 at the Visitor Centre in the Phoenix Park.

The Green Loop Trail is just one of the many trails that walkers or cyclists can enjoy as part of the National Trails Day on October 2.

The Office of Public Works, in conjunction with Kildare, South Dublin, Dublin City Councils, Waterways Ireland, The Irish Heart Foundation and the Irish Sports Council, will officially open the Green Loop Trail at the Visitor Centre at 12pm.

The trail is a 36km walking and cycling trail that links some of the

most scenic parks and green spaces in the Greater Dublin region, including the Phoenix Park, St Catherine’s Park, Lucan Demesne, Griffeen Valley Park, Liffey Valley Park and the Irish National War Memorial Park with the Royal and Grand Canals. All together it’s a fantastic green trail that can be walked, cycled or run by anyone.

A number of events are being organised in various parks along the trail and an Open Cycle is also being organised by the Irish Sports Council on the day.

Details of these events can be viewed on the website www.nationaltrailsday.ie

EVENT Activities and information seminars Community Safety Week starts this Friday Q LAURA WEBB

THE four th annual Community Safety Week kick-starts this Friday with a host of activities and vital information seminars.

This year, the safety week in Dublin 15 takes place from September 23 to 30. Each year the committee of the Local Community Policing Forum, Safer Blanchardstown, hosts the safety week, which aims to highlight activities, supports and

services within the area.

Safer Blanchardstown, works to support Blanchardstown Local Drugs Task Force, Gardai, Fingal County Council, RAPID and other key partners to address community safety concerns identified by residents.

The Week will be officially launched on Friday, September 23 at 10.45am

by Mayor of Fingal, Gerry McGuire. The launch includes the RESPECT soap box, local groups, clubs, organisations

providing information stands. On display outside is the Garda mobile station, Dublin Fire Brigade showing devastating effects caused by chip pan fire, the Mulhuddart Youth Car restoration project and Road Safety Information.

Included in the schedule of events is a Garda Open Day at the Blanchardstown station on Saturday, September 24 from 2.30pm until 5.30pm.

St Peregrine’s GAA

Club and Community Credit Union, in partnership with the Dublin Fire Brigade, Blanchardstown gardai and St John’s Ambulance, invites residents to their Family Fun Day on Saturday, September 24 at St Peregrine’s GAA Club, Blakestown Road, from 11am until 3pm.

Training on responsible serving of alcohol and Drug Awareness training is on Tuesday, September 27, from 1.30pm until 5pm, all hospitality staff

welcome.

Seniors’ Day takes place on Wednesday, September 28, at Huntstown Community Centre from 1pm until 4.30pm, while, the launch of the D15 Suicide Awareness Group takes place on Thursday, September 29, at the Blanchardstown Shopping Centre at 10am.

For a full list of events, log onto w w w.saferblanchardstown.com and click on ‘4th annual Community Safety Week event guide’.

Top results: Local school is proud of students achievements THE STUDENTS of Castleknock College who got their Junior Cert results recently had every reason to be happy and

proud. They did outstandingly well. There were plenty of As and Bs. For example, there were 20 As in Science - all at Higher Level. There were no failures at all in Maths - unlike in the rest of the country - and 17 students got an A at Higher Level. Castleknock is a pilot school for Ireland’s new syllabus: Project Maths. Photographed are some of the students who got 6 As or more. From left to right: Conn Power, Cian O’Doherty, Jack Healy, Kealan Daly (who got 9 As), Zaran Butt, Mark MacQuillan, Sean Salmon and Oliver Murphy, Principal.

COMMUNITY COLLEGE: SCHOOL HAS NUMBER OF HIGH ACHIEVERS

Principal ‘extremely happy’ with Junior Cert results Q LAURA WEBB

CASTLEKNOCK students have made their principal “extremely happy” with yet another year of great Junior Cert results.

Last week, 56,000 anxious students found out the results of their first state exam after months of waiting.

Of the 210 third-year students at Castleknock Community College who sat the Junior

Cert examinations this summer, there were a number of high achievers receiving nine As. However, CCC Principal John Cronin said that making sure everyone gets the results they deser ve and worked hard for is what the school is most happy with.

Results Speaking to the Gazette following the Junior Cer t results,

Principal Cronin said: “I was extremely happy with them. There were a number of students got nine As but we just want to make sure that everyone gets what they deserved and achieves their potential from that point.

“Those who availed of our learning support department, and who availed of our ESL (English as a second language) by those supports being in place,

they, too, achieved their potential and that is important, particularly in a time of cutbacks.

“It only proves that those supports ensure that they can celebrate on the same day as students achieving high grades.

“You would worr y about those students, but certainly the learning support department of the school ensured that they achieved success and now can build

on that and go to the Leaving Cert,” he said.

Offering some words of wisdom to the now fifth and transitionyear students, Principal Cronin said: “You’ve jumped the first hurdle, you sat with 56,000 other students, your peers, in a state examination you now know you are capable of achieving success and let that be the foundation of even greater things”.

22 September 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 3

BIRTHS Hippo calf, panda cubs are new arrivals

It’s a baby boom at the Zoo Q LAURA WEBB

THERE’S been a baby boom at Dublin Zoo this autumn, with three new arrivals that included a female hippo calf, and two red panda cubs.

The temperature may be dropping as the cold months set in, but excitement is definitely heating up at the Zoo with the team and visitors welcoming the new arrivals.

On Monday, September 12, the hippopotamus family welcomed a healthy 30kg female calf, the first hippo born in Dublin Zoo in ten years. Mum Heidi and baby are said to be doing very well.

Teamleader Helen Clarke-Bennet said: “We are thrilled with the arrival of the hippo calf. Mum Heidi is taking to motherhood very well. Before she goes for her daily nap in the pool she lifts the baby out of the water and places the young calf onto the water bank. Then she

props the baby onto her nose to make sure the youngster doesn’t fall into the pool while she is sleeping. It’s a joy to see Heidi taking good care of her young calf.”

In true Dublin Zoo style, the team are now inviting the public to suggest names for the hippo calf based on her African origin and be in with a chance to win an annual pass for Dublin Zoo. Suggestions can be made via facebook at www.facebook.com/ dublinzoo Meanwhile, the Red Panda family were also celebrating with the arrival of two new cubs, one male and one female.

They were born in early August and are now able to venture out of their den. Mother Angelina has been using her motherly instincts since they were born by hiding the cubs in different places around their habitat to keep them protected.

Team Leader Eddie

Dublin Zoo welcomed two red panda cubs, one male and one female

O’Brien said: “We are delighted with the arrival of the cubs. They are both doing very well and starting to fend for themselves.

Visitors should now be able to spot them roaming around in their habitat.”

Both the hippo and red

panda babies are out and about in their habitats and can be seen now at the Zoo. For further information on Dublin Zoo, check out their facebook page www.facebook. com/dublinzoo or log onto www.dublinzoo.ie

Dance classes on offer THE Jill O’Neill School of Dance is offering dance classes for kids and teenagers in local community centres.

Dance teacher Jill and started ballet at the age of four in Castleknock School of Dance has since

Evening on how to grow own food AN information evening for those interested in growing their own food is being organised by Grow It Yourself Blanchardstown and will take place next week.

The free event takes place on September 27 at 7pm in the Blanchardstown Library.

Mum Heidi gave birth to a 30kg hippo calf

Q LAURA WEBB

EVENT

danced other types and formed her own school of dance.

Her school, has put together the best methods of teaching to put into practice for various dance styles.

There are classes in hip-hop, jazz and contemporary dance every Wednesday at Diswell-

stown Community Centre, Diswellstown Road, Carpenterstown. Classes for children aged four-nine takes place from 6pm until 6.45pm. For those aged 10-15 classes takes place from 6.45pm until 7.30pm.

For further information phone 087-6959762.

Talk and learn G r ow I t Yo u r s e l f (GIY) networks aim to take the “self” out of “self-sufficiency” by getting back garden growers to regularly get together to talk and learn from each other’s stories on growing your own.

GIY members can help with growing a few herbs on the balcony to complete self-sufficiency, from beginners to old hands.

For further information email giyblanch@ gmail.com

4 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 22 September 2011

POLITICS Candidates talk about their campaigns and the

The battle is on for last Q LAURA WEBB

HE narrowly missed out on taking a seat in Dublin West in the General Election but, this week, Labour party grassroots in the constituency overwhelmingly endorsed Patrick Nulty as their candidate in the upcoming byelection to fill the seat left vacant following the untimely death of Brian Lenihan.

A councillor and current Deputy Mayor of Fingal, Nulty is 28 years old and also works for a housing and homeless charity.

Speaking after his selection Nulty said: “I am honoured to accept the nomination of the Labour Party to contest this election. I believe that this will be a very competitive election, but I believe that the track record of Labour in Dublin West is one to be proud of.

“If elected on October 27, I will immediately set about campaigning on the issues that matter to this community – job creation, a sustainable plan for the development of Connolly Hospital and decent public transport,” he said.

“I believe that I can bring my considerable experience in social and economic policy to make strong contributions and amendments to legislation, as well as working tirelessly to represent the interests of Dublin West within the government,” he said.

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

COUNCILLOR RUTH COPPINGER - SOCIALIST PARTY

‘Fine Gael is the only party not to have selected a candidate to run in the byelection’

I’M standing as the Socialist Party/United Left Alliance (ULA) candidate in the byelection because there has to be an end to this policy of cuts and austerity, which is not only destroying our health and education, but is actually making the economy worse.

Fine Gael and Labour are continuing this disastrous policy started

by Fianna Fail of bank bailouts for the superrich and austerity for us.

But the economic crisis is deepening and the dole queues lengthening. If you keep cutting incomes and services, there is less money to spend in the economy. The considerable wealth and resources that do exist have to be taken over and used to resolve this financial

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

So far, Fine Gael is the only party not to have selected a candidate to run in the October byelection. Last week, in a tense selection convention, Fianna Fail’s David McGuinness was chosen to contest the election. The party had been forced to resort to draw lots after McGuinness and Brian Lenihan’s former director of elections, Edward McManus, tied with 25 votes each.

The draw was won by McGuinness who told delegates he would “fight a positive election campaign”.

Meanwhile, Socialist Councillor Ruth Coppinger, who has been selected to run for her party, said local issues such as A & E services in Connolly Hospital would be a top priority for her if elected.

On a national level she said would be “standing as the Socialist Party/ United Left Alliance candidate in the byelection because there has to be an end to this policy of cuts and austerity, which is not only destroying our health and education, but is actually making the economy worse”.

“Fine Gael and Labour

nightmare.

I would stand with Joe Higgins and the ULA TDs in leading the fight against the household and water taxes, which will quickly rise beyond €1,000. No other candidate is willing to help build a mass non-payment campaign needed to defeat these home taxes. A vote to elect a TD in opposition to them has a real purpose.

I have played an active part in the campaign to defend Connolly Hospital from cuts and potential downgrading of the A&E. Fine Gael and Labour will continue the cuts. A vote for them does nothing to safeguard our hospital.

They made promises on Roscommon, and quickly betrayed them. Staff and community depend on this vital hospital and

RODERIC O’GORMAN - GREEN PARTY REP FOR DUBLIN WEST NEXT month, a byelection will be held in Dublin West following the untimely death of Brian Lenihan TD. The result of this election will not change the Government, but it will select a new TD for Dublin West for the next four years.

I share the anger about what has happened to our country and the failure of political and financial leaders. With the current Government focused on short-term crisis management, I believe we need a longer-term vision for our country.

What sort of society do we want after the recession eases? How can we make sure that the abuses that caused the economic crisis never happen again?

I want to see Ireland emerge from the recession as a country which values education and where fairness and equality are at the heart of all decision-making. I want to see economic and social policies

are continuing this disastrous policy started by Fianna Fail of bank bailouts for the super-rich

made that consider long- term consequences, not just short-term gain.

I will be a constructive voice in the Opposition. If elected, I won’t oppose the Government just for the sake of it. When they make the right decisions, I’ll support them.

When they make mistakes, I’ll propose an alternative.

As a TD for Dublin West, my priorities would be to: • Protect investment in education • Promote fairness in our taxation and welfare systems • Foster employment across the economy • Address our relationship with Europe in a rational way • Tackle Ireland’s energy needs and meet our environmental obligations • Change our political culture

and austerity for us. But the economic crisis is deepening and the dole queues lengthening,” she

said.

Separately, Sinn Fein’s Paul Donnelly has been selected to run as his

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party’s candidate in the byelection.

Speaking following his party’s convention, he described the byelection as a “unique opportunity for the people of Dublin West to give their verdict on the performance of the Fine Gael / Labour coalition government”.

“It’s hard to believe that, this time last year; both of these parties were castigating Fianna Fail policy from the opposition benches, and now, 12 months on, they are implementing it. Only a few short months ago, both parties were making promises not to close hospital wards, not to cut

Garda numbers and not to raise income taxes.

And what of the promises of jobs for our young people? They have been found out.”

Long-time Green Party Representative for Dublin West, Roderic O’Gorman, has also confirmed he will be running as a candidate. Speaking to the Gazette, he said if elected he would be “a constructive voice in the Opposition. If elected, I won’t oppose the Government just for the sake of it. When they make the right decisions, I’ll support them. When they make mistakes, I’ll propose an alternative”.

22 September 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5

issues they intend to tackle if elected

West Dublin seat COUNCILLOR DAVID MCGUINNESS – FIANNA FAIL should use the byelection to send a ‘Hands off our Hospital’ message to Labour, Fine Gael and the HSE. As a parent, I know the stress being suffered by mortgageholders as unemployment and wage cuts bite. The Socialist Party advocates a write-down of mortgages to the real value of homes as a way to deal with negative equity. It would free up huge resources to spend in the economy, as well.

My record as a councillor for eight years is unequalled by the other candidates. I have fought to maintain green belts, for community facilities and against developerled planning in Fingal. I would bring the same commitment as a ULA TD.

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‘I won’t oppose Government for the sake of it. When they make the right decisions, I’ll support them.

When they make mistakes, I’ll propose an alternative’ --------------------------

Roderic O’Gorman

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I AM a young, honest, and hard-working local councillor. Politics can improve people’s communities and lives. I can be a local TD who will make Dublin West a better place to live, work and raise a family.

I am very familiar with Dublin West having grown up in Corduff and now living in Manorfields, Ongar.

As a young boy, St Patrick’s school teacher, Kevin Willoughby, brought me and other students to play in St Brigid’s GAA and I remember standing behind a banner in Beech Park at a campaign to save the park for the club. I work in every community across Dublin 15 and in six out of the seven secondary schools.

I am involved in Castleknock Community College, Luttrellstown Community College, Coolmine Community School, Blakestown Community School and Pobal Scoil Setanta Ongar. I also continue to teach in Riversdale Community College. I work very hard in our local area. Since Brian passed, the one thing Dublin West is missing is a hard-working local TD and I can fill that role and continue to work on the local issues and national issues affecting Dublin West.

I got involved in politics as I know hard work can give us all a better place to live, work and raise a family. We need new people coming into politics and we need a fresh approach to the issues in our community. The Government simply do not need another TD and I will work as a local TD and bring Dublin West concerns to the centre of the Dail.

I see first-hand how people are struggling with mortgages. I know the community fears for their children’s education and how they worry about paying rising bills. I will use my campaign to listen to local residents and give them the opportunity

to listen to my solutions. We do not need another For-Nothing and Against-Everything candidate to represent Dublin West. I will be a TD with solutions and a high work-rate to see them delivered.

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6 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 22 September 2011

EVENT President McAleese attends the 50th anniversary of

A Golden Jubilee occasion RESIDENT Mary McAleese was in attendance to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Garda Siochana Retirement Members Association at Westmanstown Conference Centre in Clonsilla.

Over 300 guests joined President McAleese and the Central Committee of the Garda Retirement Members’ Association (GSRMA), who organised the event, held on September 14. A special Mass was held on the day and the Garda Band provided music entertainment for the guests from all over the country.

The GSRMA was formed in 1961 and is celebrating its golden jubilee anniversary this year. As part of celebrations the committee decided to invite representatives from all its 44 branches, from Dublin to Dundalk to Kerry and more, who were all represented at the event last week.

A website was also launched to mark the milestone anniversary and is available to view online at www. gardaretired.com

P

President Mary McAleese with the committee

Phyllas and Michael McGlynn Joe and Julie Cronin

Ninety-two-year-old retired Garda, Paddy McGlinley listening to President Mary McAleese’s speech

Louise Tighe, Phyllis and Michael McGlynn

Jack and Mary Marrinan

22 September 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 7

the Garda Siochana Retirement Members’ Association

President Mary McAleese listens to the Garda band

President Mary McAleese is welcomed by Chief Superintendent Declan Coburn and Superintendent Dermot Mann John Collins and John Carey

Tim Bowe is introduced to President Mary McAleese by retired members’ association president, Tony Sourke

Retired Members’ Association president, Tony Sourke, and general Joe and Vera Storey

secretary, John Rafter

Tony and Macy Sourke

8 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 22 September 2011

EVENT Fingal Volunteer Centre’s second Volunteer Expo

Volunteering is for RTE weather presenter, Nuala Carey, was on hand to launch Fingal Volunteer

Jolanta Janczyk, Glynis Dunne and Stuart Garland, just part of the Fingal

everyone ... even the

Expo, with volunteers and staff from Fingal Citizens Information Service

Volunteer Centre team

very young

Connecting communities HE recent Volunteer Expo at The Pavilions was a great opportunity for organisations to showcase their volunteer opportunities, let the community know about the work they do, network with other organisations and get to engage with Fingal Volunteer Centre and develop new opportunities. This event was being organised as part of Fingal Volunteer Centres activities for The

T

European Year of Volunteering 2011.

Twenty-two organisations, who are currently recruiting volunteers in the greater Fingal area, were on hand to give information on the wide range of roles available.

RTE weather presenter, Nuala Carey, was on hand to officially launch the event and she spoke of the great number of people who are currently returning to

volunteering or starting to volunteer for the first time. She spoke of how recessionary times has helped focus people on things that matters most – your community and helping others.

Feedback from the general public and the exhibitors was really positive and gave the public the opportunity to find out about volunteering opportunities they knew of before.

Emma McCluskey, of the Pavilions Shopping Centre, said: “There seemed to be a real buzz around the event.”

Fingal Volunteer Centre is a one-stop shop for voluntary activity, providing volunteering opportunities for the public, sourcing much-needed volunteers for organisations and providing support for organisations in managing volunteers.

Always looking for new volunteers - the team from Special Olympics Ireland GORTA was just one of 22 organisations present at

Representing the environmental sector, volunteers

Fingal Volunteer Expo in

from ECO-UNESCO were on hand to provide

the Pavilions

information on the work of their organisation

Members of the public were able to find out about a wide range of opportunities from the 22 organisations and Fingal Volunteer Expo that were

Louis Colley, of Fingal Volunteer Centre, speaking to

present on the day

some of the team from Focus Ireland

Irish Guide Dogs for the Blind brought one of their guide dogs to the Volunteer

Some of the Fingal Volunteer Centre team: Glynis Dunne; Stuart Garland, manager; Nuala Carey, RTE; Louis

Expo, which was a great attraction for young and old alike

Colley; Noreen Colgan, chairperson, Fingal Volunteer Centre, and Jolanta Janczyk

22 September 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 9

10 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 22 September 2011

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SNAPSHOT Top stories from

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Keeping things in D4 Hunky Dory...

LAST week, the famous (or infamous!)

Hunky Dorys models officially launched the 2012 Hunky Dorys Calendar at Herbert Park in Dublin 4 in their Hunky Dorys kit.

Two of the models at the centre of the hugely popular and controversial Rugby and Football campaigns jetted in from the USA and Holland to play some ball and have some fun in Ireland.

Model Lian is from Holland and has worked on campaigns for Tommy Hilfiger, Nike, Bjorn Borg, Shiseido & Marks & Spencer amongst many others. Accompanying her is Maitlyn Simmons (pictured), or

Ms. November, in the Hunky Dorys’ calendar. Maitlyn is represented by Elite Model Management in the USA and comes from Louisiana. Maitlyn has appeared in campaigns for Perry Ellis, Quicksilver, Callaway sportswear, Sandals Resorts and has rocked the runways of Escada, Versace, Shay Todd and Beachbunny swimwear.

Since the new Hunky Dorys’ campaign launched, over 36,000 Hunky Dorys’ Calendars have been sold. Lian and Maitlyn were kept busy signing calendars in Hughes & Hughes outlets in Jervis Shopping Centre and St. Stephen’s Green Centre last week-

end.

“The Hunky Dorys’ campaign has been a great success and we’re looking forward to seeing the impact on sales in a few weeks,” Ray Coyle, CEO of Largo Foods said.

And finally...

THE Liffey Valley Park Alliance are sponsoring Animal Magic at the village green at the Lucan Festival on Sunday, September 25.

Join them for a fantastic display of birds of prey, and there will be stickers available for children.

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

22 September 2011 GAZETTE 11

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12 GAZETTE 22 September 2011

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY NEWCASTLE: NEW RANGE OF PROPERTIES AT REDUCED PRICES COME TO THE MARKET

Lyons is roaring good value NEWCASTLE Lyons is a new residential development in one of the few remaining unspoiled villages in West Co. Dublin.

Newcastle Lyons offers a unique combination of modern living in the heart of a small rural community. All units are spacious and modern with large windows making living areas beautifully bright.

The prices for the properties range from two -bedroom apar tments, which extend to 769 sq ft, from €130,000; two-bedroom duplexes which exend to 1,166 sq ft, from €145,000; twobedroom houses that extend to 1,080 sq ft from €165,000; three-bed-

room duplexes extending to 1,142 sq ft, from €160,000; three-bedroom houses extending to 1,340 sq ft, from €199,950; and a four-bedroom endof-terrace showhouse, which extends to 1,755 sq ft, from €230,000.

Newcastle Lyons will undoubtedly appeal to first-time buyers who want to stay in the area and local residents wishing to upgrade their home yet remain in close proximity to family and friends.

The properties have been designed with the highest level of energy efficiency in mind, and running costs will be substantially reduced, as will any negative impact on

the fantastic rural environment in which they are located. All houses and duplexes and apartments on upper floors incorporate solar-powered, hot-water systems.

All homes have an energy rating of a B3 or higher.

As well as high-spec digital cabling, the properties have a superior level of finishing throughout, with a custom-designed fitted kitchen with eyeand floor-level units and brushed chrome handles in the kitchens, highquality Shires bathrooms and shower suites, all fitted with stylish, monoblock chrome fittings, and a tiling allowance or wall tiling in bathrooms and en suites.

There are a wide range of reduced priced properties at Newcastle Lyons

All of the houses feature gas-fired central heating, and have an excellent standard of wall, floor and roof insulation to assist with their

high-energy efficiency rating.

Smoke alarms are fitted as standard, and all will have a 10-year Homebond structural

guarantee.

In addition, the flooring and carpets are included in the price, and there are Nordan doubleglazed timber windows

and external doors with three-point locking system.

For more information, contact Douglas Newman Good on 491 2600.

CITY CENTRE: APARTMENT ASKING PRICE OF €185,000

Investment chance at the Brokerage FINNEGAN Menton are bringing Number 5 , T h e B r o ke r a g e , Townsend Street, Dublin 2, a fully-furnished two -bedroom apar tment located on the first f loor in excellent condition for €185,000.

Tow n s e n d S t r e e t , Dublin 2, is in a prime city centre location that would be ideal for investment, with current rents of €1,200 per month being achieved.

The Brokerage is a small development of 21 apartments in a wellmanaged city centre block of apartments.

T he apar tment has access to a private terrace on the first floor.

All floors have stairs and lifts.

T he Brokerage is ready to go, ideally located opposite the Irish Times building

The living room at No 5 The Brokerage on Townsend Street

and adjacent to Trinity College and Pearse Street Garda Station.

It is only a five-minute walk to Grafton Street and O’Connell Street from the property.

The accommodation, which extends to c.61 sqm (c.650 sq ft) comprises an entrance hall, two bedrooms, a bathroom and an open-plan

kitchen and living room space.

The property, which has a bright and spacious layout, features Creda electric storage heating, and it has access to large outside patio terrace.

The property is managed by Fisher Property Management, and there is a management fee of

c.€1,494 per annum.

Viewing of the property is highly recommended, and can be arranged by contacting Glenn Burrell at Finnegan Menton on (01) 614 7900 or 0866011378.

You can find out more information online at www.finneganmenton. ie

22 September 2011 SWORDS GAZETTE 13

14 GAZETTE 22 September 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel The perfect time to hit the road Experience beautiful Galicia and walk the Camino de Santiago

THE Bono Iacobus, or Camino Pass allows visitors to travel the historic Camino de Santiago route in stages, staying in a different rural tourism location each day.

The price includes accommodation, evening meal, breakfast and car transfer to the beginning or end of each section of the route. Picnic lunches and baggage transfer, as well as accommodation in Santiago de Compostela are optional extras.

The Vive Galicia, or Experience Galicia programme, which arose from a collaboration between the local administration with travel agencies and professional tourism organisations, aims to promote Galicia’s tourism offer both nationally and internationally. Its website www.vivegalicia.es (and also www.turgalicia.es) currently offers 122 different ways for visitors to enjoy their visit to Galicia.

Information is also available by phone at 00 34 902 200 432

STAFF REPORTER

IRELAND has a plethora of fantastic driving routes with events, activities and attractions en route to suit the whole family. So, whether you’re a Sunday driver, road hog, or you simply love to feel the wind in your hair on the open road, there is a driving journey available to suit you. Why not log onto www.discoverireland.ie to plan your perfect road trip.

Driving on Dublin’s Doorstep

T he Gordon Bennett Route - A journey through counties Carlow, Kildare and Laois Let the Gordon Bennett Route take you on an historic journey following the footsteps of our motoring pioneers across spectacular Irish countryside. While the famous Gordon Bennett route was raced by the world’s greatest daredevils at record-breaking speeds in 1903, we suggest you set yourself a much easier pace. www.discoverireland. ie Navigate the North-West on the Inishowen 100

The Inishowen 100 is one of Ireland’s most scenic drives. It’s a 100-mile (160km) circular route around the Inishowen Peninsula in north east Donegal. Bordered on three sides by water, the peninsula is almost triangular in shape, flanked by Lough Foyle and Lough Swilly and bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to

the north. With splendid coastal scenery, plus a collection of ancient forts and monuments, traditional craft centres, and a dozen or so friendly villages, many people consider Inishowen to be a miniature Donegal.

Also no trip would be complete without a visit to Malin Head, Ireland’s most northerly point, with its wild sea-ravaged coast, stunning seascapes and Fort Dunree, a magnificent viewing outpost with a fantastic military museum. www.discoverireland.ie Drive Into the West with the Connemara Driving Tour

Connemara’s unique landscape and quiet roads make it an ideal place to get behind the wheel and explore the countryside. You’ll have the freedom to meander at your own pace, stop for photographs and detour down back-roads to discover your very own slice of Connemara life. A driving tour with optional detours to the islands, takes in the best scenery and attractions on an easy loop from Galway City. www.discoverireland. ie Savour the South-West

in particular the 6th century Skelligs UNESCO World Heritage site.

There is something for everyone on this drive, which has spectacular views of the Blasket Islands and the Dingle Peninsula. www.discoverireland.ie

and rediscover the Ring of Kerry

Traverse the South-East

The Ring of Kerry is one of Ireland’s most popular scenic drives.

Take time to explore the many picturesque villages and the magnificent ancient and early Christian heritage of the area,

By Hook or by Crooke

Avoid the dreaded ‘Are we there yet?’ whines with the By Hook or By Crook drive through counties Waterford and Wexford, a road-trip the whole family will

enjoy (it is believed that when Cromwell invaded he said that Waterford would fall ‘by Hook or by Crooke’. Crooke village is just across the river in Co Waterford).

The starting point is the must-see Hook Lighthouse on the end of Hook Peninsula in Co Wexford.

It is one of the oldest functioning lighthouses in the world. Travel by car ferry from Ballyhack to Passage East across the Suir and then head to the gorgeous village of Dunmore East where you can unload the picnic basket

and enjoy lunch in the sheltered sandy swathe right in the village centre. www.discoverireland.ie There are so many magnificent scenic drives in Ireland. Your perfect driving holiday with friends and family is literally just moments away, so what are you waiting for? You don’t need to worry about luggage allowances or flight delays, simply choose one of the incredible value offers on www.discoverireland.ie to plan your perfect road trip.

22 September 2011 GAZETTE 15

Edited by Mimi Murray

TravelBriefs Discover Dinosaurs CLOSE to the centre of the city of Teruel, in the Aragon region of Spain, you’ll find Dinopolis, a theme park where children and adults alike can have fun discovering all the secrets of the exciting world of dinosaurs. It was conceived as a park with an educational slant, and its various attractions offer a panoramic view of the giants who once walked the earth: the dinosaurs. www.dinopolis.com.

ing wharfs west of Pontevedra, offers access to pleasant hiking trails and secluded white sand beaches. The market sells fresh fish, fine cheeses, organic breads, and honey.

The town’s popular seafood festival draws flocks of visitors during the first two weeks of THE self-proclaimed October. For further “Paraiso de Marisco” information go to (Shellfish Paradise), O’Grove, a tranquil fish- www.pescanatur.es

Shellfish and Seafood Festival Ireland has plenty to see and do for fans of the open road

16 SWORDS GAZETTE 22 September 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1

GoingOUT GoingOUT MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340

The Classic Motown Songbook with The Jewelettes CONTINUING with some of the classic, timeless tunes that The Mill has been delighting patrons with recently, classic Motown songs will fill the air as The Jewelettes, backed by a three-piece brass section, piano/keyboards, bass, drums, guitar and percussion, croon their way through some of the classic Motown hits of yesteryear. The music starts at 8pm on Saturday, September 24, with admission costing €18/€15.

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Faith Healer

FURTHER cementing Draiocht’s reputation for hosting topclass drama, Brian Friel’s Faith Healer takes to the stage, ready to bring the audience on a journey across Scotland and Wales with a faith healer and his companions, as he meets the sick by forests and mountains. But are Frank’s miraculous cures real, and what is the price the afflicted must pay? See this dramatic production of Faith Healer on Saturday, September 24 at 8pm, with admission costing €18/€14 conc.

PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 The Admirable Crichton

A LESSER-known work by the author of Peter Pan, JM Barrie, there’s a lot that modern audiences will still enjoy in this tale of Edwardian Era manners and “place”. An examination of the then English class structure, the Loam family, and their servants, are shipwrecked on an island.

But who will serve whom far from society? See this timeless tale nightly at 8.15pm from Tuesday, September 27 to Saturday, October 1.

“Oh my God – I’m you, and you’re me! Wait, who am I, again?” Identity confusion sets in for best friends Dave (Jason Bateman) and Mitch (Ryan Reynolds) after they mysteriously swap bodies/minds, and have to try and figure out how to reclaim their own lives and identities again

A change for the worse Someone change the body-swap template, please! This foulmouthed addition to the genre just doesn’t add anything good ...

Q KATE CROWLEY

THERE are some things in life that even I just don’t understand. Who coughed up the cash to make The Tempest (lost in unreleased limbo)?

Why is Ozzy Ozborne a star, but an equally befuddled Mr Crowley not? And why does Hollywood make body-swap films every so often?

True to form, here comes another one – and starring Ryan Reynolds, quickly becoming Tinseltown’s equivalent to Springfield’s Troy McClure as, shall we say, he stars in one less-thanOscar-challenging film after another.

If the day ever arrives where I see him starting a public information film with the words: “Hi, I’m Ryan Renolds. You may remember me from such films as The Green Lantern, and Change-Up...” – well, let’s say that I won’t be surprised.

FILM OF THE WEEK: The Change-Up ++ (16) 112 mins Director: David Dobkin Starring: Jason Bateman, Ryan Reynolds, Olivia Wilde, Leslie Mann, and cosmic identity confusion

OUR VERDICT: IF YOU like toilet humour, a fascination with breasts, and various other cinematic low-hanging fruit, this is the film for you, as ChangeUp aims low (even in the dull body-swap genre) and lands even lower. Reynolds’ many fans (and, presumably, Bateman also has some) may lap this up, but it feels like little more than a more foulmouthed (and minded) version of a hundred 1970s Disney films ...

Seeing as every Abbott needs a Costello, here he’s teamed up with Jason Bateman as the second partner in this tag-team comedy. But who’s on first?

Well, they have equally important roles, as Mitch (Reynolds) and Dave (Bateman) are best friends who’ve grown up together, even though they’re no longer quite as close as they once were.

Actually, they’re pretty different guys, as Mitch is a footloose singleton, while Dave is buried in family life.

Unsurprisingly, both

men see aspects in the other’s life that they’re envious of – Mitch, of Dave’s stability and family life, and Dave, of Mitch’s irresponsible freedom to do what he likes.

What can the guys do?

Well, as luck would have it, after a drunken night out together, something mysterious happens, and both men wake up the next morning inside each other’s body.

So, Mitch is now Dave, and – well, you can work the other part out, I’m sure. Mamma mia! What an unexpectedly wonderful opportunity the uni-

verse has given them!

Ah, if only. Their alltoo-brief-relief at being able to live it up in the skin of the best buddy they’re a little jealous of soon passes for the guys who, sure, have changedup their lives (what a clunky term!), but which, as always, turns out to be far from the carefree/cosy life that they’d thought it would be like.

So, with friends, colleagues and family members beginning to wonder what’s wrong with Mitch/ Dave and Dave/Mitch, and why they’re acting so strange – while at the same time playing dectective in disguise, trying to see if they can improve each other’s life – the guys have to work out how, instead of changing up, they can change back (ah, now it makes sense!) to their old lives, and bodies, that they suddenly appreciate. It’s a wonderful life ahead if they can, but can they?

There are plenty of scenes in the film that bring to mind what I suspect an old Italian friend might dub as “bunga bunga”, but which are, perhaps, a little foreheadcreasening for some of us gals to sit through.

Perhaps somewhere along the way a little of the spirit of Benny Hill got changed-up into either of the characters, or the writers, but, as my savvy dear daughter Crowleyetta would say: “Hmmmmmmmm ...”

And so, as far as somewhat sexist, laddish comedies go, I’ve seen worse.

However, I’ve also seen better – and so have you, dear reader – making this a film that, sure, you could go and see, or which you could change-up at the cinema to see something a little more entertaining instead.

No one ever said that finding a good, substitute film to watch was going to be Ozzy ...

G A Z E T T E G R O U P N E W S P A P E R S

&

SEP 2011

Bride groom

D u b l i n ’ s co m p l e t e g u i d e to yo u r w e d d i n g

Oldworld charm

Unique destinations: New trends in honeymoons Page 19

Finding the ultimate backdrop for your wedding: Page 18 All about beauty: Get your skin in tip-top shape Page 22

Wedding venues: Pick a perfect package Page 23

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

18 GAZETTE 22 September 2011

BRIDE& GROOM

D u b l i n ’ s co m p l e t e g u i d e to yo u r w e d d i n g

l LOC AT I O N , LOC AT I O N , LOC AT I O N l

Chosing that special venue EVERY woman dreams of a fairy-tale wedding day, in a luxurious and stylish venue, and every princess wants to get married in a castle.

In the shadow of Trim Castle, which casts it’s magical charm on the area that surrounds it, the Trim Castle Hotel’s Wedding Fair and Fashion Extravaganza event takes place on Sunday, October 2, from 2 to 6pm.

Trim Castle Hotel sits with quiet authority overlooking the mystical Trim Castle and the

adjoining rolling lawns of St Patrick’s Church.

We d d i n g s a t t h e hotel have the benefit of overlooking the castle, and, for those who have attended an event, there,they will agree that looking onto the Castle alight in romantic colour amongst the evening sky is a breathtaking scene.

It brings character and charm to an already very special day.

Trim Castle Hotel is a stand-out choice for a wedding reception as it possesses the old-world charisma of the histori-

cal Anglo-Norman castle, which it overlooks, and the contemporary standards of fine food and decor.

The hotel also boasts a rooftop terrace from which guests can admire the impressive castle. If you are lucky to host your wedding there, know that your guests will be talking about it for a long time to come.

The floor-to-ceiling windows of the Great Hall banqueting suite and pre-function area allow a view of the castle and church lawns that is

truly inspirational. The roof-top garden, located on the third floor, provides the ultimate backdrop for wedding photography, with spectacular views over the grounds of Trim Castle and the surrounding area.

At Trim Castle Hotel, the team aspire to make wedding days the most memorable and enjoyable day for the couples who celebrate their marriage there. To achieve this, their wedding team assures you of personal and professional attention in the planning and

preparation of your special celebration.

An all-inclusive package is available on key dates in 2012 and 2013 for only €55pp. There are also excellent packages available for January and February 2013.

For further information, please contact the wedding co-ordinators at Trim Castle Hotel on 046-9483000, or email info@trimcastlehotel. com. For more information, see www.trimcastleweddings.com or www.trimcastlehotel. com.

A special day awaits couples at Trim Castle Hotel

22 September 2011 GAZETTE 19

l GOI N G E XOTIC l

New trends in honeymoons AS each new generation ties the knot and enters the honeymoon market, they bring their own tastes and desires on travel.

Destinations, resorts, and activities that thrilled previous newly-wed couples may now be less appealing, or not as attainable, due to political and economic reasons.

Thankfully, new trends and exotic destinations always emerge, offering Irish couples fresh opportunities for fun and relaxation. So, before you plan your honeymoon, check out the latest offers, talk

to an expert and choose a destination to suit you!

Honey mooning in European Union countries mean shorter flight times, Old World cultures, the euro and romantic cities such as Paris, Barcelona, Rome, Prague, Istanbul or Copenhagen, to name but a few. Sunny Mediterranean beaches, great food and wine and an endless choice of hotels will suit any budget.

Cruising is romantic and cost-effective and you can sail into glamorous ports such as Monte Carlo, Cozumel and

Miami. Thinking of having your wedding aboard ship or renewing your vows at sea? – the new generation ships offer extensive and varied facilities and you can be as active as you want, remain occupied from morning till night and see the sights without going broke. Smart !

For many couples, A frica represents a dream honeymoon, and a favourable dollar/euro exchange has made many previously expensive destinations, such as Kenya, Tanzania and Botswana, much more accessible.

Combining the Serengeti with Zanzibar, the Kruger Park with Mauritius or the Kingdom of the Pharaohs and a cruise on the Nile, is a never forgotten safari and beach experience.

Other hot destinations include Sri Lanka, India, Madagascar, Ethiopia, Borneo, Brazil and Jordan. All offer unique and unforgettable honeymoons and have never been more inspiring.

So, before you plan your honeymoon, talk to GoHop.ie and check out the latest ways to celebrate one.

The new trends in exotic destinations include places such as India’s Taj Mahal (above) and Egypt’s Kingdom of the Pharaohs

20 GAZETTE 22 September 2011

GOT A STORY? Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email news@gazettegroup.com

BRIDE& GROOM Dublin’s complete

g u i d e to yo u r w e d d i n g

l WE DDING JE WE LLE RY l

Man’s guide to choosing a ring SO, the time has come to pop the question, eh? If you’re thinking of going down on one knee and asking her to marry you in the traditional way that women love, you’d better have the engagement ring ready.

While it’s becoming more popular for couples to decide to become engaged in an off-hand manner, and then venture down to the jewellers to choose the engagement ring together, many women still feel there’s something special about wearing a ring their beau has chosen especially for them.

The Right Choice

Before you can even

consider looking at rings, you need to find out a few basic things: • What is her ring size?

• Does she prefer yellow or white gold?

•Does she prefer simple styles, or would she prefer an engagement ring that will be instantly noticed?

By studying the kind of jewellery she generally wears, you can find out a lot about her tastes. If she wears simple jewellery, this is probably a sign that a diamond solitaire may be more appropriate than a flashy engagement ring carrying a cluster of gems.

The ring you choose should reflect her personality – she’ll be wearing it for a long time, after all.

The Cost

Once you’ve decided on a style, it’s time to determine how much you can spend on the ring.

Traditionally, a man is expected to spend at least the equivalent of two months’ salary, although a lesser amount is acceptable these days.

There are several reasons why the engagement ring was expected to be so costly: • So that the young lady and, not least, her family would know that you had made a conscious effort at saving in order to propose to her.

• By saving for the ring, you show that you’re also capable of saving for a future home.

The ring you choose should reflect her personality

• Should the couple fall upon hard times, there would always be the ring to “pawn” in order to get through.

Buying the ring

Before you go to the jewellers, ask around and try to determine which jewellers offer the kind of service you need. If you’re buying a diamond- set ring, you’ll want a guarantee that the stone is conflict-free, and you’ll want re-sizing included in

the price. You’ll also want at least a 12-month guarantee against loss of the stone, due to faulty craftsmanship or defects in the materials used. Make sure the metal is properly hallmarked, that diamonds carry a certificate, including the carat and grading of the stone, and that the jeweller provides a guarantee that the diamonds are conflict free.

With thanks to Adam, Sapphire Jewellers, Skerries, Tel. 8490063.

22 September 2011 GAZETTE 21

l ANOTH ER SL I CE O F YO U R P E R F ECT DAY l

Have your wedding cake – and eat it!

ALL the details matter on your special day, but one that people remember is the wedding cake.

It can be memorable, traditional or just plain ordinar y – William and Kate had a simple chocolate biscuit cake as their wedding cake – but taking some time to think about what you want from your cake, and who will make it for you, is time well spent.

Here, Amy from Cakea-licious, the bespoke wedding bakers, goes through some things to consider when choosing your wedding cake.

“One of the best ways to select your cake maker is to go by recommendations from friends or family.

Someone you know is bound to have needed

a professionally crafted cake at some stage and you want to know what the company was like to deal with, as well as how good their cake tasted.

Consider how many people you will need to feed to help you decide the cake size to go for.

Fruit cake and chocolate biscuit cake usually go further than sponge cakes. Most cake makers now offer a wide range of cake flavours, so you don’t have to stick to the traditional fruit cake.

Sponge cakes can come with a variety of flavoured cream fillings, such as strawberry or lemon if you like something light. You could have dark or white chocolate biscuit cake, red velvet or chocolate

sponge. If you wanted a bit of variety, you could have a different flavour for each tier.

You should also let your cake maker know at the beginning if there are any food allergies to consider, to see if they can accommodate you.

Give plenty of notice for your cake order, especially in the busier months of May to September.

Colour co-ordinated W hen it comes to choosing a colour for your cake or cake decorations consider copying the colour of your flowers or bridesmaid dresses, or you can tie your design in to match your invitations.

If you’re stuck for ideas for your cake,

Take time to think about what you want from your cake and who will make it for you

there are several wedding publications full of inspiration. You should also check out wedding websites, which often have galleries of wedding cakes among their planning tools. Looking at lots of cakes will help you figure out what you

love and hate about each one and guide you when choosing your own.

Think about your cake topper – do you want figurines or would you prefer to have something that looks like it’s part of your cake? Lots

of people have personalised wedding toppers now; sometimes these are given as gifts, so make sure you leave a space on your cake if you intend having one of these. It’s also worth keeping in mind the size of the cake topper when

choosing your cake size to keep everything in proportion and prevent it looking top-heavy.

If you can collect your cake yourself you may be able to save the delivery charge, although some bigger cakes would need to be assembled in situ by the cake maker, so this may not always be possible.

Did you know that the traditional wedding cake has three tiers to represent the engagement, wedding and eternity rings? Your cake will be one of the centrepieces of your day, and will reflect your personalities, so let your imagination take flight!”

With thanks to Amy from Cake-a-licious, visit www.cake-a-licious.ie or call 087 9800995.

22 GAZETTE 22 September 2011

BRIDE& GROOM

D u b l i n ’ s co m p l e t e g u i d e to yo u r w e d d i n g

l A L L ABOU T B E A U T Y WI T H DAWN LOVE l

Get your skin in tip-top shape for the big day ACHIEVING a flawlesslooking complexion for your big day has never been easier, with an array of creams and serums on the market that will leave you with a radiant and glowing visage.

Favoured by royals, such as the Duchess of Cambridge and TV reality star, Kim Kardashian, for their big day, it isn’t difficult to understand why classic skincare company, Lancome, is a firm favourite with brides-tobe.

Already a hit with beauty editors across the city, the French brand’s latest miracle serum, Visionnaire, does exactly what it says on the cover and is ideal for keeping your skin in tip-top shape throughout your wedding day, not to mention the weeks leading up to it.

A skin-correcting serum, it leaves complexions looking visibly transformed – the texture feels refined, wrinkles appear reduced, pigmentation irregularities are reduced

and pores are tightened.

The Visionnaire customised formula was developed around the specific qualities of LR 2412, to maximise its effectiveness and for optimal performance. It can be used on all skin types, even sensitive skin.

Its texture melts into the skin and instantly permeates it. From application, the skin feels transformed, enveloped in a luxurious sensation – skin appears soft, silky and supple.

Armani’s Youth Regenerator (above) and Lancome’s Visionnaire LR 2412

Visionnaire (LR 2412) (€70) can be used on all skin types, including sensitive skin and on the eye contour, and worn all year round. For maximum benefit, use at night.

Other creams and serums to definitely check out are in Armani’s Regenessence luxury range of products.

As the company says – no matter what their age, when women look at their skin, their concerns change.

Wrinkles are a visible sign of aging, but now women want more. Reducing and treating wrinkles is no longer enough.

Women want what a surgeon cannot offer – a wonderful skin texture.

One that is smooth, velvety and even. Now women are looking to target all the signs of aging that can occur in their skin, and to target everything at the same time – wrinkles, radiance, texture.

Hence, the company’s new Regenessence range, which includes a Multi-Corrective Rejuvenating Cream (€85), a Youth Regenerator Serum (€95), Eye Rejuvenating Serum (€60) and Cosmetic Water (€40). The products will leave you with a dewy, peachesand-cream complexion, leaving you with one less thing to worry about on your wedding day.

Dove takes the worry away for whole day FROM making sure you are picture perfect to worrying about table plans, there is sure to be a multitude of things on your mind when it comes to your big day.

And the last thing you need to worry about is perspiration.

Dove’s new Beauty Finish doesn’t just offer 24-hour antiperspirant protection, but also transforms underarms to give them a natural glow with a beautiful finish.

Dove Beauty Finish contains pearlescent mica, an iridescent mineral known to

enhance the natural look of skin.

The innovative formula of Dove Beauty Finish contains onequarter moisturising cream and is enriched with pearlescent mica, leaving skin soft, smooth and even-toned. With its long-lasting antiperspirant and skin caring qualities, women can now feel more confident and have the freedom to wear whatever they please to show off their gorgeous underarms.

Dove Beauty Finish provides 24-hour protection against under-arm wetness and odour and helps skin appear flawless all day long.

22 September 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 23

l WEDDING VENUES l

Pick your perfect wedding package THE award-winning Castleknock Hotel and Country Club is now considered by many to be the premier wedding venue in Dublin.

Set just outside Castleknock village, in close proximity to the Strawberr y Beds and the Phoenix Park, the hotel is a contemporary-styled alternative to the traditional hotel venue.

There is a choice of two wedding rooms, the larger Phoenix Suite or the more intimate Park Restaurant.

The hotel also has a stunning room, with a balcony on the first floor with views of the local countryside, for civil wedding ceremonies.

The hotel has a number of key strengths that tick most couples’ checklist.

There are two bars inside

the main ballroom and an adjacent smoking terrace, so you maintain the atmosphere and don’t lose your guests.

Mood lighting and chair covers create an elegant ambience and the flexible layout of the room allows for various setups.

In addition, St Mochta’s church in Porterstown, located just 700 metres from the hotel, is one of the most picturesque churches in Dublin and is extremely popular for weddings.

Castleknock Hotel has won no fewer than 12 awards since 2009. Their greatest strength is their service excellence and the quality of their food.

With an AA Rosette Award for the third year running, Best Food and Drink Experience 2010

from D15 Chamber of Commerce, and the Customer Service Excellence Award for the past two years running from The Fingal Chamber of Commerce, they’ll make sure that you have a wedding day you’ll remember.

Check out the brand new Pick a Perk Package for 2012 and 2013 weddings, a unique offer that allows you to create your own perfect wedding package tailored to your individual taste. So now you don’t have to pay for an inclusive package with items you don’t particularly need or want.

Make an appointment with Jenni or Audrey, their wedding co-ordinators for a tour of the hotel facilities by calling (01) 640 6300 or email events@chcc.ie

The Castleknock Hotel and Country Club Hotel just outside Castleknock village

24 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 22 September 2011

22 September 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 25

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

RTE star Duncan Stewart helps launch new Energy Saver Centre

Saving energy with the new B&Q centre PAUL HOSFORD

RTE star Duncan Stewart was in Liffey Valley last week to launch B&Q’s new Energy Saver Centre.

T he B&Q Energ y Saver Centre is the first of its kind for B&Q and is designed to help customers looking for costeffective, energy-saving measures for their home.

With fully qualified energy experts on hand, it will offer expert advice, a free, no-obligation home- energy audit, DIY energy-saving products and fully guaranteed installations of energy measures, such as internal and external insulation, boiler upgrades and solar panels.

Duncan says that with energy becoming a bigger cost, homeowners will need to look more closely at the money they spend on heating and lighting.

“As energy costs rise, and they will continue to rise, people will become more and more conscious of the ways they use energy.

“It’s critical that companies like B&Q do things like this, somewhere you can get advice, generic advice that isn’t about pushing products, and look at each home’s individual circumstances and see what homeowners can do.”

Duncan says that he is aware of a growing problem with “fuel poverty” in Ireland – people who don’t have enough money to heat their homes. “ We h a v e a b o u t 400,000 houses in fuel poverty. Even something like a fuel allowance isn’t solving that problem.”

In that regard, the issue of getting more for your money is an obvi-

ous concern and Duncan says that there are many small things that homeowners can do to ensure that their money is well spent.

“If you look at the average house, you can’t do everything, you just can’t afford to.

“Insulation is the most important thing. You can put renewable energy in and do a lot of things, but the most important is to get the building right.

Bring down the energy rating as much as you can.

“A typical house should be setting targets to bring your energy costs down to 20% of what it is.

“That is a realistic target, when you look at how much energy we waste.

We spend on average €2,000 a year on energy.

“That is down to things like poor insulation and boiler efficiency.”

In terms of what can be done on a practical level, Duncan has key areas that he recommends, the first of which is insulation.

“Insulation and air tightness will help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Make sure the attic is well insulated and, if at all possible, look to insulating walls.

“Replacing old boilers with more efficient ones is a very practical one, too,” said Duncan.

B&Q Liffey Valley’s in-store energy expert, Vivien Deering, also said that the centre can offer customers a valuable resource.

“Our Energy Saver Centre is a one-stop shop for anyone considering an energy upgrade to their home. We give our customers simple and straightforward advice on

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS

ENERGY BILLS Q – My dad died last year leaving a property worth between € 100,000 and € 130,000, jointly owned. My mother died six months later without making a will. There are two surviving children with my sister wanting to purchase the house from me. Can I transfer my share to my sister or will she have to buy me out ? What is the best way to deal with this so as not to cause us tax or additional stamp duty ? Would I be liable for Capital Acquisition Tax (CAT). Thanks. Jimmy, Co Kildare.

A - When your dad died, the property, along with all his possessions automatically passed to your mother, irrespective of whether a will was made or not. There was also no tax liability for your mother. Her untimely death and intestate (without making a will) means you now have to go through administration to formalise the handing down of her assets to you both.

Whatever happens, if you decide to keep the family home and transfer your share to your sister or leave it in your joint names, stamp duty of 1% is payable – replacing the Consanguinity Tax which allowed a 50% reduction on the previous higher rates. Plus legal fees, of course.

There are three categories of Capital Acquisition Tax, where exceeding the thresholds below, the rate of 25% tax applies.

1. Parent to child (plus stepchildren)

€332,084

2. Sibling to sibling, nephew, niece etc €33,208 3. All others

€16,604

Therefore, as you are well inside the first threshold, neither your sister nor yourself will have to pay any tax on the inheritance from your mother.

However, if the property has been left to you on a joint basis, transferring your share to your sister at that point if it is already in your joint names WILL involve a CAT tax liability of 25% over the threshold. Your share is worth €65,000 and if you pass this share to your sister, you will incur for your sister both CAT liability (€ 65,000 less threshold of € 33,208 = € 31,792 at 25% Energy expert and energy saving ambassador, Duncan Stewart, with Mark Gould

= €7,948 tax she will have to pay) and 1% stamp duty

(left), MD B&Q Ireland, who were on hand to officially launch the Energy Saver

(€650) plus, of course, the legal fees. Even receiving

Centre at B&Q, Liffey Valley.

€65,000 from your sister directly will incur a CAT tax

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

‘We give our customers simple and straightforward advice on how best to improve energy efficiency in their home and, ultimately, how this can save them money’ --------------------------------------------------------

Vivien Deering, B&Q Liffey Valley’s in-store energy expert

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

how best to improve energy efficiency in their home and, ultimately, how this can save them money.

“We offer a free, no-

obligation home-energy audit, where I will visit you in your home and provide you with a report based on your property

bill for you. Best advice ? Either sell the property and

detailing what actions you can take to improve the efficiency of your home. These actions can range from simple DIY measures, such as fitting energy-efficient light bulbs or installing draught excluders to installed measures, such as a solar thermal panel or high-efficiency boiler.”

For further information on the B&Q Liffey Valley Energy Saver Centre, visit www.energysaverscheme.ie

split the proceeds – no stamp duty or CAT tax – or leave your interest in the property with a provision that if your sister dies or sells the property, your 50% interest given to you by your mother is retained for you and your estate, while she could also give you a monthly income (taxable) for the use of your 50% share . This could be € 213.96 per month based on the best NET deposit account rate currently (3.95%).

Best of luck.

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

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26 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 22 September 2011

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GazetteSPORT

BLUE HARVEST: All-Ireland glory for Dublin after epic win over Kerry Page 29

SOLHEIM CUP: BOYNE VALLEY GEARS UP FOR INTERNATIONAL GOLF COMPETITION

Europe and USA all set for battle at Killeen Castle sport@gazettegroup.com

AS THE Boyne Valley prepares to host one of the biggest international events in its history, the 2011 Solheim Cup, local businesses are welcoming visitors in style by staging a huge array of entertainment in the area throughout September.

Up to 7,000 foreign visitors from the US and throughout Europe are expected to cheer on

their respective teams.

Hotel accommodation is filling up quickly, with some special offers still available in the Boyne Valley region.

A local steering group, comprised of key representatives from the Boyne Valley region including, Meath Tourism, Meath local authorities, hoteliers, vintners, local communities and Failte Ireland, have been working to ensure the region is showcased in

the best possible manner to all visitors during the event.

Over 40 events have been organised to coincide with the staging of the Solheim Cup which include festivals such as the Dunshaughlin Harvest Festival and the Terrific Trim Festival.

A range of cultural and musical nights are being staged including a culture night at the Solstice Arts Centre in Navan featuring the Irish Chamber

Vice-captain of Europe in the Solheim Cup, Annika Sorenstram, with with Marjorie McCorduck, president of the Irish Ladies Golf Union and the 2011 ILGU Junior medal winners, including Meabh Holden from Newlands

Orchestra, a traditional Irish music session in the nearby Dunsany GAA Club, and an evening with Liam O’Connor at Knightsbrook Hotel.

There is something for everyone, from a National Hunt Meeting at Navan Racecourse, to an Irish Night and Pig Roast

to name just a few. There is also more golf on offer with the Irish dynamos, the Maguire twins, playing in the PING Junior Solheim Cup 2011, at Knightsbrook.

Michael Killeen, chairman of the local steering group said: “This is a tremendous opportunity for

the Boyne Valley region to showcase all we have to offer as the area prepares to be centre-stage in front of tens of thousands of visitors and millions worldwide.

“Locals are working hard and determined to put on a great show. the Boyne Valley region is

offering great value for guests to come, stay and experience the area”.

To find special offers on accommodation during the Solheim Cup, visit www.discoverireland.ie/ golf, and go directly to the Event Package Offers section, or see www.solheimcupmeath.ie.

28 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 22 September 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

RUGBY: SOUTHSIDE RIVALS REVERSE SPENCER CUP RESULT

McGee on the rise after fine results in Istanbul CASTLEKNOCK LTC man James McGee registered the biggest result of his career in Istanbul last week when he got the better of France’s Edouard Roger-Vasselin in the last 16 of the ATP Challenger event.

McGee ousted the world number 104 man in straight sets, 6-1, 6-4, to continue his brilliant run of results on the tour, which has seen him rise to his highest ever world ranking.

He was installed at number 389 in the world list after his run in Turkey at the Challenger level, the second highest tier in world tennis.

To get to the final eight in Istanbul, McGee made his way through a couple of rounds of qualifiers before knocking out Austrian Carsten Ball in the first round of the competition – another player ranked over 80 places above him.

But the win over Roger-Vasselin was another huge step up. He ultimately fell in the quarter-finals to Lithuanian Ricardis Berankis, the world’s 157 in three sets.

The Dubliner won the first set 6-1 and was well in contention in the second at 5-5 before Berankis closed out to force a decider which he won with a couple of breaks of serve, 6-2.

But McGee followed up early this week with another couple of strong results at the $64,000 Turk Telekom Izmir Challenger after a 6-2 6-1 win over William Boe-Wiegaard (USA) in the final round of the qualifiers.

It earned him a place in the main draw against Italy’s Thomas Fabbiano (ITA) in the men’s singles main draw first round.

It will be his third successive time in the main draw of a Challenger event since moving up from Futures level, the last of which was the Irish Open, which he won back in July, his breakthrough win on the tour.

Brian Moran comes under pressure as Coolmine look for an opening against Monkstown at Ashbrook last week

Monks get revenge LEINSTER DIV 1A Coolmine Monkstown

9 15

sport@gazettegroup.com

T H E s e c o n d m e e ting between Coolmine RFC’s first XV and Monkstown in the space of a few weeks saw a reverse of the Spencer Cup encounter between the sides at Ashbrook last weekend.

A c o m p r e h e n s i ve win for Coolmine in the side’s cup tie left the home side under no illusions that this meeting was going to be a much closer affair.

Monkstown had the advantage of the wind on their backs for the first half, and both sides spent the first quarter feeling each other out, with neither side looking particularly threatening.

Coolmine’s first real chance came after 25 minutes, when a grubber kick from Donal Crotty was followed up

by David Stacey kicking the ball along the ground deep into the opposition 22. However, he failed to regain possession, knocking it on in the recovery.

Coolmine lost Harley Murray to the sin bin on the 31st minute when he was judged to have had his hands in the ruck, but Monkstown failed to convert the ensuing penalty.

The visitors soon took advantage of their numerical superiority, winning their own lineout and pushing over for the first try of the game, and the conversion put them 0-7 ahead.

Monkstown then lost a man of their own to

the sin bin, evening up numbers on the pitch.

A heav y shower of rain changed conditions and led to handling errors from both sides, and a converted penalty for Coolmine near the end of the half left them trailing by four points going into the break.

Monkstow n began to dominate the set pieces as the match progressed, preventing Coolmine from securing any sort of meaningful possession in the visitor’s territory as the second half unfolded.

A scr um near the Coolmine line was reset several times, and, with Coolmine’s front three under severe pressure, Monkstown elected to reset the scrums despite three points being on offer under the posts.

T h e i r p e r s e ve r a n c e eventually paid off with their second try, despite calls for a knock-on.

Coolmine pulled back six points from two penalties, narrowing the gap to 9-12 with five minutes to go.

But a converted penalty from the visitors left them some breathing space, and they managed to hold out for

the final whistle and an away win.

Elsewhere, the seconds played the same opposition, and were the comprehensive victors, running in a total of four tries, winning by 29-0, with Rory Farrell winning the man of the match award for his speed and power that he displayed in the three tries he scored.

Fionn Lacey evades his tackler

22 September 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 29

in association with

The ultimate honour at last

FastSport

Dublin’s heroics at Croke Park last weekend was the culmination of a journey that has seen the best players in the county claim their destiny Kilmacud Crokes named

BE R N A R D B r o g a n summed up the feeling that stretched across the capital on Sunday afternoon shortly after Dublin lifted the Sam Maguire trophy for the first time in 16 years when he said: “You couldn’t write it in a fairy tale.”

But the fairy tale came true in what was a dream final for the Dubs, putting years of disappointment in the All-Ireland senior football championship behind them with a win that spoke of the class and commitment that flows not only through the county team, but all of the teams in the county.

The foundations of the victory were laid when Pillar Caffrey was manager of the side, and his ability to instil a professional attitude and selfbelief in his Dublin side

The defeat in his first season in charge against last Sunday’s opponents, which saw Kerry positively crush Dublin by a 17-point margin in the quarter-final, was a stark

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

‘It was an epic victory worthy of an inspired team who have come together to finally reach their potential on the biggest stage.’

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

is something that Pat Gilroy has taken to the next level since he took over as Dublin manager two years ago.

Dublin’s success in the All-Ireland final was a deserved conclusion to the season

illustration of the qualities that his Dublin team would need to possess to reach the next level of footballing achievement.

And that they did in 2010, reaching the semifinal on the back of their first win against Tyrone in 15 years. However, heartbreak was on the cards as the Rebel forces conspired to keep Dublin out of the final again.

Defeat came only by a point, but the margin was again an indication that a tilt at the ultimate prize in Gaelic football was only just beyond their reach, and that the same determination would see them progress further again.

Disappointing showings in the Leinster final against Wexford, and again in the All-Ireland semi-final against Donegal, had many expecting a repeat of the 2009 encounter against Kerry, but the side that took

the field at Croke Park last Sunday were not the same.

From 1 to 15, there was an edge and a determination that ran like electricity through the side and transferred to the crowd in the stadium, and to those watching on TV around the country, that this was a Dublin team who had the mental and physical capability to go the extra distance.

Hearts were breaking, however, when Kerry went four points clear with seven minutes to go. Dublin had, to all purposes, shut down, and had only a Bernard Brogan point to show for their endeavours in the second half.

But Kevin McManamon’s incisive run and finish set up the most thrilling end to an AllIreland final in many years, proving the side’s strength in depth. Kevin Nolan added a point, and the scores tied as the clock ticked into overtime and fingernails were bitten to the quick.

With everything pointing to a return to HQ two weeks later, and with bare seconds left on the clock, a free was awarded to the Dubs just inside the Kerry half. There was one man with the previous to be able to step up to the challenge that would define Dublin’s, and his own destiny and place in history.

Stephen Clu xton’s

form throughout the season as top-point scorer meant that he was called to step forward and make the kind of kick from a placed ball that he had been striking over all season. This was the most important kick of a football all season, and he did not disappoint, the ball bisecting the uprights as he was already trotting back to his goal.

It was an epic victory, worthy of an inspired team who have come together over recent years to finally reach their potential on the biggest stage.

The 2011 vintage was made up of those players whose ability, consistency and belief in the cause has made Dublin GAA a pleasure to report upon over the last five years.

The club system underpins Dublin’s success and, without the support of clubs across the capital, Dublin would not have reached the heights they achieved at Croke Park, nor the heights that has seen Dublin’s representative teams reach the final stages of no less than five championships in recent weeks.

Those sides that did not get so far are stuffed with talent and are developing all the time, with new blood adding to old heads and creating teams capable of defeating the best in the country on any given Sunday.

as Best Club contenders KILMACUD Crokes have been shortlisted as one of the clubs who have been touting their greatest achievements in their bid to become Ethiad Airways’ Best Club Down Under.

Etihad, sponsor of the GAA Hurling AllIreland senior championship, challenged clubs around the country to tell it what their greatest achievement was.

Kilmacud Crokes GAA Club got their nomination on the basis of the ability of club to introduce new children to Gaelic games, improve their skills and instil a passion for hurling and Gaelic football in them.

Etihad will fly the first team from the winning club to Australia, where it will train with GAA legend Nicky English ahead of the challenge game of a lifetime against an Australian select team as the curtain-raiser for the International Rules match between Ireland and Australia in the Etihad Stadium, Melbourne.

To vote for Kilmacud in the competition, see www.etihadgaa.ie.

Kop legends take on Bohs in charity match LIVERPOOL legends Jason McAteer, John Aldridge, Sammy Lee, Phil Babb, Don Hutchinson, Ray Houghton and Alan Kennedy, to name but a few, will take on Kevin Hunt and his Bohemians legends team at Dalymount Park, this Sunday, September 25 at 3pm, with all proceeds in aid of the Chernobyl Children’s Trust.

A Gala Dinner will follow the match at

8pm in the Regency Hotel in Drumcondra.

Johnny Lyons from Dublin ’s 98FM will host the event and the dinner will include a four-course meal, a meet and greet with the players, and a postdinner Q&A session with the legends from both sides.

Match tickets cost €10 for adults, €5 for under-14s and €25 for a family of two adults and two children and can be purchased on www.ticketmaster. ie. Tickets to the Gala Dinner are €40 and can be booked by contacting Fiona on 086 3393913.

30 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 22 September 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

SOCCER: UNDERAGE TEAMS IN ACTION IN LEAGUE AND CUP

Phoenix rise with win against Wayside Celtic PHOENIX picked off a huge win last Friday night in Scribblestown when they got the better of reigning LSL Sunday Senior champions, Wayside Celtic, 4-0.

The win lifts them to fifth in the early season standings, with games in hand on each of the sides above them.

Former Mount Merrion man, Badir Bouznig, grabbed a brace for Harry Kenny’s team while Danny Giffney and John Brophy were also on the mark in the comprehensive win.Wayside had threatened before Brophy broke the deadlock, crashing a shot against the bar, but once the deadlock was broken, ’Nix were well on top.

Meanwhile, the club have drawn Newtown Rangers in the FAI Intermediate Cup.

Summerfest set for next weekend THE 2011 Tesco mobile SARI Summerfest, the largest intercultural soccer tournament in Ireland, is set to take part this year at the Garda and Camogie Sports Grounds, in Phoenix Park on September 10 and 11 from 11am to 5pm each day.

The Summerfest will also coinciude with the CONCERN kitefest, where kite flyers from around the world will display their kites and give kite workshops for children.

The two-day festival also includes a wide array of entertainment for all the family.

For more information, see www. facebook.com/sarireland.

Castleknock Celtic seeking ladies talent CASTLEKNOCK Celtic FC’s ladies and girls section are recruiting new talent to the cllub for the soccer season starting later this month.

If you were born in 1996 or earlier, visit the club’s website at www.castleknockceltic.com, and pass on your name and contact details in the How To Join section provided on the site.

The club are also looking to recruit girls born in 2001/2002 to play soccer in the DubliGirls Soccer League.

Oisin Zambra shoots as Castleknock Celtic look to take the lead in their recent match against Manortown United

Celtic stride ahead in ties sport@gazettegroup.com

CASTLEKNOCK Celtic’s DDSL 13A1 side travelled to Elder College to play against Home Farm as they continued their campaign in the league.

A great performance from all twelve players on show kept a great unbeaten start to the season going with a 4-1 victory.

After a lively start, Celtic took the lead after just eight minutes, with a fine finish from Conor Cummins following good work from Alex Ffrench Mullin and Padraic Collins.

Celtic pressed for the remainder of the half, and could have extended their lead following a number of chances, but had to settle for 1-0 at half-time.

The second half started in a similar manner as the first had finished, but in spite of pressing to double their advantage, Celtic were caught with a sucker punch, and Home Farm equalised midway through the second half. However, Celtic stuck to their guns, and with five minutes to go, Ruairi Patton allowed Celtic to retake the lead.

With their tails up,

A Cool’ treble: Local players in Leinster Metro selection COOLMINE RFC were celebrating this week when three of their Under-16 squad were selected to represent the Metro section of Leinster rugby. Flanker Aaron Ryan, second row David Gethin and centre Vakh Abdaladze have played with Coolmine since their mini rugby days. After a demanding fitness and conditioning programme throughout the summer the players made it through the final selection to line out in their first competitive game with Metro against the North East area this week in Malahide.

from the kick off, Celtic won the ball and Sam Ryan put Patton through for his second goal, and Celtic’s third.

With the last kick of the game, Evan Lawlor got on the end of a great cross from Conor Cummins and scored Celtic’s fourth, putting the icing on the cake.

Elsewhere in the DDSL, Celtic’s Under18 Premier side climbed to the summit of the league after securing an away win against Broadford Rovers.

Man-of-the-match Luc Cautley bagged another brace of goals after last week’s double

against Ballybrack.

His first was a superb, diving header from a Conor Byrne cross, who is racking up a large number of assists so far thsi season.

The second goal came from a through ball from Kevin Flanagan, and Cautley elegantly rounded the keeper to slot home.

Broadford reduced the lead to a single goal mid-way through the second half, but were unable to break down the Celtic defence to equalise.

In the Under-12C, Celtic’s young team found themselves down

2-0 at home at halftime, having been second best to the league leaders, Esker Celtic.

The second half was to be very different, as the changes made at half-time saw Castleknock coming out a different team and turn on the style.

They got their reward with good movement and finishing by Ayoub Khennache.

They were again on the mark when a perfect cross into the middle found Ayoub again, to fire home his second of the game and make the score level with seven minutes left.

22 September 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 31

in association with

FOOTBALL: JUNIOR LADIES CLAIM CHAMPIONSHIP .

CLUB NOTICEBOARD CASTLEKNOCK Congratulations to the Dublin fen-

details and support the lads.

ior footballers on their dramatic

Many thanks to all who organised

and well-deserved victory in the All

and attended the pre All-Ireland

Ireland final.

social in Kavanagh’s.

Commiserations to the minor lads

Sincere thanks to those who,

on their heart-breaking loss to Tip-

behind the scenes, worked so hard

perary.

to try and accommodate as many

Well done to the Castleknock l;ads involved in recent All-Ireland finals; Ciaran, Shane and Ian who were on the Dublin minor hurling panel and

members as possible with tickets for the All-Ireland.

Our All-Ireland newsletter is available to download from the website.

to Graham, Ciaran, Ross, Kevin and

Castleknock GAA Nursery for four-

Eoghain, who were on the Dublin

to seven-year-olds takes place

Minor Football Panel.

at CCC on Saturdays from 10 to

Our adult hurlers play their important last league game at the weekend in Somerton.

Minor championship also this weekend.

Plea se check the website for

11.30am. Just come on down and join the fun and why not bring a friend.

New players are always welcome at all ages and levels. Just ring our club coach Brendan on 085 1329397 for training and mentors details.

ST BRIGID’S St Brigid’s celebrate their Tesco Dublin Ladies’ Junior C championship final win. Picture: GAA pics.com

Clifford kicks Brigid’s to victory in C final JUNIOR C C’SHIP FINAL St Brigid’s St Finian’s Newcastle

1-13 1-10

sport@gazettegroup.com

INSEPARABLE for 82 minutes, Fiona Clifford’s last-gasp 35-metre free caught a wicked trajectory to nestle in the back of the net and finally end this classic slugging match in St Brigid’s favour, denying St Finians, Newcastle, a first championship win in Saggart on Friday night.

It capped the Russell Park side’s second comeback from the dead as Barbara Kelly twice salvaged parity, first in normal time with a late free to secure the extra 20 minutes.

And, with the daunting hill to face, Brigid’s turned at the midway point of the extra-time three points in arrears as Dublin U-16 Ciara Trant – an All-Ireland finalist in late August – put on a masterclass from the placed ball.

But Kelly again showed her nerve to wipe out the deficit and, after what seemed an interminable, nerve-wracking wait for the final free due to an injury; Clifford dropped in her final salvo and sent the title back up the Navan Road.

It was a huge finish, one which manager Phil Brennan said was in the making from way back in February.

“We had a meeting at the start of the season back in February and we said if we could just keep ourselves up, we’d be happy with that. We’ve succeeded in that but we never thought we’d get where we are in the championship,” he said.

“But the girls trained e xc e p t i o n a l l y h a r d , training each night in the winter in the snow and rain. It showed tonight.

Their level of fitness and dedication, it all stood to them and that’s what has got us where we are tonight.”

Finian’s played their part in the arm-wrestle, one which leaned one way and then the other throughout.

Brigid’s were the first to push on, Clodagh Rogers, Mariosa Bryce and Jenny Weldon building a 0-5 to 0-1 lead.

It was very much their purple patch of the first half and resulted in the largest margin of the evening. But the Newcastle side’s greater efficiency in front of the posts saw them level, despite considerably less ball, while a series of fine saves from Sandra O’Connor kept them in the mix.

Indeed, on one break they had a goal chalked off for a square ball while they looked good for the win when Trant appeared to have broken the tie, the teenager coolly slotting a penalty following a goal-mouth tussle.

Kelly, though, twice summoned scores and the game could have fall-

en her side’s way when Weldon found herself momentarily through on goal but Boland recovered quickly and the chance was gone.

Trant once more had one hand on the trophy when she was the only player to register in the first period of extra-time, two sweetly struck frees from the ground and one cracker-jack point on the turn from distance.

But Kelly’s free started the second fightback before a surging run had the margin down to one with five minutes left.

Weldon’s assist then gave Kelly the chance to level for a fifth and final time on the night.

And one final foray earned the crucial free.

Clifford was forced to stand over the free for over a minute but her visualisation proved spot on, her kick skimming down the back of the netting to start her side’s celebrations with a bang.

CONGRATULATIONS to Barry Cahill,

minute goal in extra time. Well done

Declan Lally, Sean Murray and the

to all involved.

Dublin senior footballers on their

Hard luck to Shona Barrett and

tremendous All-Ireland victory over

Sarah Fay, who lost out to Cork in

Kerry.

the Aisling McGing final.

Special thanks has to go to all the

The U-13A and B hurlers had good

mentors, right from nursery to

league wins over Slyvester’s and

adult level, who made this possible.

Clontarf.

The inter footballers had a good win over Craobh Charain.

The U-15 hurlers claimed a good extra time win over Finbar’s.

The senior hurlers face Craobh

Club lotto takes place in The Rosel-

Chiarain this Saturday at 4pm in

awn Inn this Thursday with a jackpot

Parnell Park. Big support needed.

of €15,000.

The ladies’ junior footballer s

The club Night at the Dogs will

claimed a brilliant Junior Football

take place on Friday, October 21, in

Championship victory with a last-

Harold’s Cross.

GARDA/WESTMANSTOWN GAELS WHAT a weekend! Dublin are All-

and especially Scoil Rince Nolan Dun-

Ireland champions 2011! How sweet

leavy, who gave a wonderful show-

it is.

case piece at the Family Céilí.

Meanwhile, a great win for the

Gaels’ U-10s and U-11s lost nar-

Intermediates over Crumlin in the

rowly to Wanderers and Good Coun-

league on Saturday night, by 4-12 to

sel respectively, but the U-9s v Kil-

1-5. There is now just one fixture left

macud, U-12s v DLS Ballyfermot and

in the league.

U-14 Girls v Foxrock/Cabinteely all

The ladies play in 7-a-side tournament next Saturday at St Sylvester’s, starting at 10am.

won their matches in a busy football weekend.

Thank you to Brian Keville for man-

It seems so long ago but well done

aging the distribution of tickets for

to Geraldine Culloty and her team

the All-Ireland game and, of course,

of helpers for organising True Blue

all of the other Dublin games since

Saturday, the day before the Dubs’

January.

great win. Pictures of the day are

Finally, thank you to the staff at

available on the Facebook link on the

Westmanstown Sports Complex for

Gaels’ website. A big thank you to all

hosting all of the Gaels events over

who joined us on Saturday evening,

this unforgettable weekend.

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ALL OF YOUR CASTLEKNOCK SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

DOWN TO THE FINAL EIGHT: Career best result for local man James McGee P28

SEPTEMBER 22, 2011

CONTENDERS Crokes make Best Club Down Under list P29

castleknocksport@gazettegroup.com

BERNARD, Alan and Paul Brogan added to their family’s incredible sporting history by emulating their father Bernard Snr in becoming All-Ireland football champions.

Alan also looks on course to follow younger brother, Bernard, as player-ofthe-year following an incredible day in Croke Park when the Dubs upset the form guide and conventional wisdom to come back from the dead against Kerry.

The brothers were part of one of the great comebacks in Gaelic football history, as Kevin McManamon’s goal and a nerveless long-range free from Stephen Cluxton were the pivotal moments that saw a Kerry lead turned on its head in the dying moments of the tie.

It left a serious amount of celebrating to do, something which Bernard admits was hard to get away from.

“An incredible feeling, obviously, and they had to pull me off the pitch there,” he said. “The stewards were asking us to leave. I was sitting in the centre cir-

cle and I didn’t want to leave. It’s a feeling you don’t get very often. I wanted to soak up every second of it.

“We obviously weren’t in a great position in the last six minutes or so, but I thought back to the Donegal game, that we have dug this out before. Kevin McManamon was after coming off the bench and he was always going to go at players. I knew that something would come. In fairness to the man, he has been unbelievable all year, and I am delighted for him. He’s just a legend.”

He added that he was ecstatic for Alan — who had led from the front for Dublin all season — after he finally got his hands on a Celtic Cross after 10 years of trying.

“I’m just delighted for Alan, who has given 10 years of trojan work, and must be in line for Footballer of the Year.”

Alan, meanwhile, says he was worried that this moment might not have come during his career.

“Of course there were times over the last three or four years where the likes of myself, Barry Cahill, Stephen Cluxton and Paul Casey, thought we might

never win an All-Ireland.

“Since Pat came in, and these younger guys, guys that don’t carry any baggage, playing against Kerry doesn’t faze them as it might have fazed us, and I think that has been the difference in pushing us over the line.”

Cahill, meanwhile, was another local winner – one of three St Brigid’s men,

along with Sean Murray and Declan Lally – and he was quick to an hail an “incredible” performance on Sunday.

“We put so much effort and so much hard work into it, not only in the last twelve months but over the last few years, and for it all to come together today is a great feeling. It probably won’t sink in for a while.”

Dublin’s epic performance against Kerry garnered them the All-Ireland title

GazetteSPORT

Brogans fulfil family destiny