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‘Middleton’s wedding makeup was classy and timeless’ FEATURE: P15.

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INSIDE: Castleknock student a Leader of Tomorrow P6

May 5, 2011

CABLE GUY: Leo Varadkar and team on local clean-up mission: See Page 2

Wedding belles: Royal affair for local ladies Football: Local ladies aiming for Division 2 crown Page 32

CASTLEKNOCK beauties Jacqueline Murphy, Helena Farrelly and Nicola Talbot joined 44 other royal wedding fans who enjoyed a special breakfast last week in aid of the charity, Children First.

Celebrations began at 9.30am with a Buck’s Fizz reception, then it was on to Brasserie 15 for a sitdown breakfast before the wedding proceedings began.

Full Story on Page 2

Sports Awards: Esteemed April winners are announced Page 29

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ................8-10 MOTORS ........................18 BUSINESS ................... 20 TRAVEL......................... 23 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

Call for action on ‘war zone’ sites Council urged to make developers clean up their act

Q LAURA WEBB

DERELICT sites at unfinished residential developments across Dublin 15 have been described as resembling “war zones”, with local politicians urging Fingal County Council to force developers to “clean up” abandoned sites.

At a council meeting this week, Socialist Party councillor Matt Waine will press FCC to “take action” on abandoned and uncompleted residential developments in D15.

Councillor Waine said he visited a number of unfinished developments and “could not believe the state” the sites are

in. “The rubble and other construction waste discarded on these sites make the area look like a war zone,” he said.

He said he now wants the council to actively move to force developers to “return these sites to an acceptable level of care”.

Full Story on Page 5

2 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5 May 2011

HORSE AND PONY CLUB: MEMBERS RECEIVE MERIT FOR ANIMAL CARE STUDIES

CHARITY Fundraising event at So Belle

Learning is truly the key in Dunsink Q LAURA WEBB castleknock@gazettegroup.com

A LITTLE knowledge does go a long way for the members of the Dunsink Horse and Pony Club, who thanked the coordinators of an educational programme that has helped them learn more about how to maintain their horses.

On April 28, 14 members of the Dunsink Horse and Pony Club (DHPC) graduated from a Stable and Yard routines course, receiving FETAC Level 4 certificates.

Members received merits and distinctions on completion of the course.

During a special awards ceremony, officials from Fingal County Council, the Irish Horse Welfare Trust (IHWT) and very special guests British actor, Anthony Head and his wife, Sarah Fisher, congratulated all the participants on their achievements.

The Dunsink Horse Club is an initiative formed and managed by a committee made up of representatives of FCC, IHWT and Dunsink Horse Owners. The awards ceremony recognised the achievements of the horse owners who participated in the course, many of whom passed with merit or distinction.

Speaking to the Gazette before receiving his graduate certificate, Patrick Ashe, member of the DHPC said this is a “great thing”.

“There is not one badlooking horse out there now. It is great to be part of. We learned a lot, about feeding, how to look after a horse, I am delighted with it. The course was one day a week for fourteen weeks. There is an awful

lot I learned that I didn’t know before. This council, and the IHWT, worked great with us and anyone having problems like that, I would advise them to get in touch with your local council and try to work things out.

“We had horses there all the time and they were getting impounded, and the council wanted to work with us to build stables and sort out the problem that was going on.

There were a lot of horses dying out there, just being left there, so they wanted to sort that problem out.

That is how this all kicked off.”

Dunsink Horse and Pony club member and --------------------------

‘There is not one badlooking horse out there now’ --------------------------

Patrick Ashe, DHPC member

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graduate, John Murtagh was grateful for everything. “A little knowledge goes a long way, and that’s what we needed. All the horses are looking the way they should be, and that is the way it is going to continue.”

A n o t h e r m e m b e r, Karen Hyland, spoke at the ceremony, saying the last few months had been a “whirlwind”. “It’s been such a great experience and an amazing story has evolved.

“It is a programme for adults and children alike.

It wasn’t that we didn’t love our horses, but it was a chance to help look after them properly. On behalf of the whole horse and pony club, I would like to thank everyone involved.”

Clockwise from left: Rosemary and Celine, of So Belle, with Sharon and Monica, of Shamon; Maureen Guilfoyle, Carol Dixon and Christine and Anita Courtenay; and Keith Hallissey, of Brasserie 15, with Theresa Rocca and her sister Anna Sweeney

Local ladies receive the royal treatment Q LAURA WEBB castleknock@gazettegroup.com

CLIENTS and staff from So Belle in Castleknock were treated like royalty last Friday, during a very special breakfast celebration of the nuptials of Prince William and his new Duchess Kate in aid of charity Children’s First.

Celebrations of the royal wedding began at 9.30am with a Buck’s Fizz reception, then it was on to Brasserie 15 for a sit-down breakfast before the royal wedding proceedings began.

The 44 ladies in attendance were all dressed for the occasion, wearing stunning fascinators and hats. According to coowner of So Belle, Celine Brady, the day went without a hitch and everyone adored the bride and her bridesmaid’s gorgeous wedding attire.

“They absolutely loved it. They loved the bride’s gown, they loved Pippa [bridesmaid], everyone was talking about Pippa.

Ever yone just really enjoyed the occasion – it was great fun. They will all know where they were when they married.

“Ever yone was so glammed up, it was fascinators and hats at dawn.

The celebrations continued on until the wedding was finished with the first and last kiss,” Celine said.

So Belle Beauty Salon has been in the heart of Castleknock Village for seven years. The salon owners, Rosemary Duffy and Celine Brady, both from Castleknock, are proud of the fact that their five staff members are from the local area.

The royal breakfast was the brainchild of co-owner Rosemar y.

Celine said they knew it was “going to capture our clients’ attention and we wanted do something to get everyone together.

“It was also a chance to promote our newest equipment to the salon, a cellulite removal machine.

“We put a bit of a royal slant on it by calling it the Royal Flush. We also have the Middleton manicure on special offer and we have Kate’s Glow, it was just to create a bit of buzz around it.

“The tickets cost €15 and the profits are going to Children’s First char-

ity. It is for vulnerable children in the home in Ireland. It’s just really nice to give something back,” Celine said.

The salon is still counting the proceeds raised from the day and hopes to have a final figure this week.

The next big occasion the salon celebrates is the visit of American President Barack Obama, so “watch this space” for the American-themed offers they will have on at the salon very soon.

Check out their Facebook page for great offers when you like the page.

Leo leads local cable tie clean-up crew Q LAURA WEBB

LOCAL politicians and volunteers have shown their commitment to keeping D15 litter-free by removing more than 10,000 election poster cable ties left behind from the recent general election campaign.

Dublin West TD and Minister for Transport Leo Varadkar, and a number of volunteers, have cleared the thousands of election poster cable ties from across a large area of Dublin 15.

F o l l ow i n g p u b l i c concerns over the large

number of cables left behind after the General Election the Minister decided to act and remove the cables.

Since then, a group of around 12 volunteers and constituency supporters have put in about 200 hours removing cable ties from a large area of Dublin West, south of the N3.

The Minister paid particular tribute to the volunteers, headed up by Ned Walsh, who worked tirelessly to clear cable ties from Castleknock and Blanchardstown.

“Some of my campaign workers felt that we’d

Minister Leo Varadkar, with volunteers John O’Shea, Ned Walsh, Cllr Kieran Dennison, Cllr Eithne Loftus and Andy Garvey, on their recent clean-up mission

put in a special effort after the election to take down cable ties from all political parties in Dublin West,” he said.

“As Minister for Tourism, I am very conscious of the need to look after the environment in

order to encourage visitors. Many people had complained about the unsightly cable ties left behind after the election. The area now looks much better before the tourist season begins,” he said.

Minister Varadkar encouraged other politicians of all political parties to make a similar effort. “We weren’t able to cover the entire constituency, so we would invite the other parties to get out there too.”

5 May 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 3

ANIMAL WELFARE Sarah Fisher has a novel idea

FastNews Park road restrictions THE Commissioners of Public Works in Ireland have ordered road restrictions in the Phoenix Park to ensure the safety of participants in a programme of cycle races and duathlons on various dates in 2011. Road restrictions will apply in the Phoenix Park on Wednesday, May 4, Wednesday, June 1, Wednesday, July 6 and Wednesday, August 3. This will see roads closed to vehicular traffic at Acres Road and Military Road from 7.30pm until 9.30pm.

Adult First Aid course in Blanch Elaine Hyland, of the Dunsink Horse & Pony Club, with Anthony Head and Sarah Fisher, who are both supporters of the IHWT. Picture: Conor O Mearain

The Dunsink Horse and Pony club a ‘blueprint’ for others Q LAURA WEBB

SARAH Fisher, wife of British actor Anthony Head, is to pen the true story of Dunsink and its horses in a novel, and possible feature film she is proposing to write with help from the Irish Horse Welfare Trust (IHWT).

During a graduation ceremony, where 14 members of the Dunsink Horse and Pony Club received a certificate for completion of the Stable and Yard routine course, the actor and his wife announced their plans to put the story into a novel, and possibly a feature film.

Best known for his acting abilities as Rupert Giles in Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and as the Prime Minister in Little Britain, Anthony Head took time out of his busy schedule to be by his wife Sarah’s side as they com-

memorated all the parties involved in the welfare of the horses at Dunsink.

Sarah, who is a horse and dog trainer, first came into contact with co-founder of IHWT, Sharon Newsome, four years ago. After hearing Sharon, the local council and the responsible horse owners at Dunsink were working on a longterm strategy for horse welfare, she decided to take a look for herself and later donated money for the educational programme, and has committed a further £1,500 for future educational programmes.

“We are going to write a novel based on the true story, so we can get it into film as well. It has changed lives and everyone was working on the same level – and that was for the welfare of the horse. We were aware of

the very bad press Dunsink was receiving in the international media, and most of the claims in the media were unfounded.

There were very few horses up there in poor condition and the majority were owned by responsible

feature film, would reach a wider audience. Take Into the West, people suddenly saw the kids’ enthusiasm for the horse and it wasn’t just about the kids keeping a horse in the flat – it’s a wonderful story. This whole pro-

ing together to improve the community to understanding, education – the education programme had only started – they got more people signed up, more and more kids were coming up to round up the horses that didn’t

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‘It is the spirit of the thing that is so infectious, a documentary would only go so far, but a novel, followed by a feature film, would reach a wider audience. Take Into the West, people suddenly saw the kids’ enthusiasm for the horse and it wasn’t just about the kids keeping a horse in the flat – it’s a wonderful story. This whole programme is amazing’ -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Anthony Head, British actor

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owners; what I witnessed there was something extraordinary,” Sarah told the Gazette Anthony said: “It is the spirit of the thing that is so infectious, a documentary would only go so far, but a novel, followed by a

gramme is amazing.”

When Sarah spent two days at the landfill, she said the energy towards the plan just “grew and grew”. “The concept of the horse club was becoming something tangible, and everyone work-

belong to people, and it was just the most incredible two days. It was hugely successful.”

According to Anthony, the long-term strategy for Dunsink and the educational programme is about “empowering the

community to work with themselves and for themselves and work for the horses”.

“Sharon [IHWT] has an uncanny knack of being able to just draw the energies of the various people involved to be able to draw up a plan that works for everybody, and it has brought the power back to the community. Instead of saying you have to do this and you have to do that, the community actually makes the decision themselves; They have really put in a place a long-term strategy for the horses in the Dunsink area,” he said. With Sarah adding: “This should be a blueprint for other areas.”

The couple are currently in the process of setting up a charity to improve animal welfare through education.

Full gallery next week

THE Castleknock Division of the St John Ambulance Brigade of Ireland will run an Adult First Aid course in Blanchardstown village this May. The course, which is set to run for eight weeks, encompasses a wide variety of topics, from treating strains and sprains to learning the vital life-saving skill of CPR. It is taught and examined by fully accredited St John instructors and demonstrators. Participants will receive a certificate in first aid once they complete the course.

St John Ambulance is well known in the D15 area, with members providing a variety of services at a number of events from local schools’ fairs to GAA matches and major concert and sporting events.

This course is for anyone aged over 18 years and is a great way of meeting new people. The course costs €100 and includes a first aid manual. For information, visit www.stjohn castleknock.ie or phone 086 8461314.

4 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5 May 2011

FastNews

TRANSPORT Minister moves to allay fears

Council remove two illegal clothing banks CLOTHING collection banks illegally located in Clonsilla and Carpenterstown have now been removed.

Two clothing banks were placed on the Clonsilla Link Road and on a traffic island between Woodbrook and Riverwood in Carpenterstown.

When asked by Castleknock councillor Matt Waine whether they were placed their legally, a spokesperson for Fingal County Council confirmed they were not.

In a report to the councillor, the spokesperson said: “Two clothing collection banks were placed illegally at the locations referred to. The clothes banks were put in place at these locations

by Orphan Aid Association. The company was contacted and advised that the containers would be impounded if they did not remove them. The containers were subsequently removed by the company.”

Despite concerns raised by Councillor Patrick Nulty (inset) over the possible privatisation of Dublin Bus and CIE, as recommended by the

Citizens’ meeting planned for Crowne A MEETING to get citizens together and share their views on how to make this country better will take place at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Blanchardstown.

We The Citizens is an independent national initiative with a clear and simple idea to show how this country could benefit by its citizens coming together in new ways of public decisionmaking.

The initiative believes this is a way to renew trust in politics at a time of social and economic crisis in Ireland. Now D15 citizens are being asked to come together and share views on how to make our country better and engage with others on the future of our country.

A free meeting will take place on May 31 in the Crowne Plaza in Blanchardstown, were people can participate in an open discussion and speak about what’s important to them. It also gives an opportunity to express ideas on how to renew this country. There will also be a bite of supper served from 6.15pm and discussion will begin at 7pm To secure a place sign up online at www.wethecitizens.ie/events/detail/citizens_ event_Blanchardstown

McCarthy Report, the Minister for Transport, Leo Varadkar, has insisted the Government has no plans to privatise such services.

‘No plans’ on Dublin Bus privatisation Q LAURA WEBB blanchardstown@gazettegroup.com

A LOCAL Minister has responded to concerns that a proposal recommended by the McCarthy Report – to privatise Dublin Bus and CIE – could be considered by the Government, stating there are “no plans” to privatise bus or train services.

This week, Dublin West Fine Gael TD, and Minister for Transport, Leo Varadkar, said the Programme for Government commits to “favouring public transport in the future, and that is what I intend to do”. He added: “We do not have any plans to privatise bus or train services.”

Minister Varadkar was responding to comments made by Mulhuddart councilor, Patrick Nulty (Lab), who expressed

“significant reservations” on recommendations by the McCarthy Report to privatise Dublin Bus and CIE, calling on the Minister to make clear that this proposal “will not see the light of day”.

He said the recommendations in the McCarthy Report on State assets to privatise Dublin Bus would “cause chaos, and are condemned to failure”.

“Dublin Bus provides a service not for profit, but for the good of the people. Any privatisation of bus routes will inevitably lead to private operators ‘cherry-picking’ highvolume routes, whilst neglecting smaller local communities.

“Residents across Dublin 15 have serious concerns about losing their bus services.

“People are already concerned about some

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‘Dublin Bus provides a service not for profit, but for the good of the people. Any privatisation of bus routes will inevitably lead to private operators ‘cherrypicking’ high-volume routes, whilst neglecting smaller local communities’

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Councillor Patrick Nulty, Labour

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of the recent changes to West Dublin routes, and are worried about losing their local services.

“It is older people, and the less mobile, who will suffer most from cutbacks in services,” he said.

“I believe that providing an adequate public transportation service is a necessity of any state. Many of our senior citizens, or the 450,000 people who are seek-

ing employment, cannot afford a private car, or the sky-high price of fuel.

“Any policies that seek to privatise essential public services will, by their nature, hit the less-welloff hardest.

“I believe that it is the policy of the new Government to prioritise public transport, and I am calling on the Minister for Transport to make clear that an integrated, pub-

licly-provided bus service will be maintained, and McCarthy’s proposals will not see the light of day,” said Cllr Nulty.

In response, Minister Varadkar said: “We do not have any plans to privatise bus or train services.

“I recently welcomed the extension of the 37 bus route to the Blanchardstow n Centre, which will be a tremendous boost for residents, shoppers and employees.

“T he Government favours more diversity in the provision of services, and that is already available in the context of the licensing of private bus services.

“I am also keen to study what options exist in relation to Bus Rapid Transit [options] for suburban parts of Dublin,” said Minister Varadkar.

5 May 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5

COUNCIL FCC called to exercise powers

Action urged on derelict sites Q LAURA WEBB

THE council must exercise its powers to “force developers” to clean up derelict sites left looking like “war zones” at uncompleted residential developments across Dublin 15.

That’s the call from Socialist Party councillor, Matt Waine, who is urging Fingal County Council to “take action” on abandoned uncompleted residential developments in Dublin 15.

Commenting ahead of his motion to Fingal County Council Local Area Committee meeting, Cllr Waine criticised developers who “having pocketed enormous profits from residents who had bought homes in their developments, had shirked their responsibilities and left residents with vistas more akin to scenes in

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‘The rubble and other construction waste discarded on these sites make the area look like a war zone’

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Libya,” said the Castleknock councillor.

“I have visited some of these sites in the area, specifically the uncompleted development at Station Court/ St Mochta’s in Clonsilla and Parkside/Millrace Rd off the Castleknock Rd, and cannot believe the state these sites are left in.

“The rubble and other construction waste discarded on these sites

make the area look like a war zone.

“These truly are the graveyards of the property bubble and a legacy of the selfishness of the property developers who have turned this country into an economic wasteland,” he said.

The councillor went on to say the sites are littered with construction waste, such as scaffolding material, concrete blocks, cement bins and portacabins.

“They are a magnet for anti-social behaviour, are often poorly secured, allowing easy access, and have little or no security. I am also quite concerned about the safety of children who are drawn to such locations.

“I understand that the council have extensive powers under the Derelict Sites Act to force the owners of these sites

to clean up these lands, including taking them into public ownership.

“I believe the Act needs to be strengthened to allow local authorities to seize such lands and develop them for the benefit of the community.

“As a matter of urgency and public safety, I am calling on the council to actively move to force these developers to meet their obligations

and return these sites to an acceptable level of care,” Cllr Waine added.

T he councillor ’s motion is due to be discussed at an area committee meeting at Fingal offices in Blanchardstown this Thursday, where a council response will be given to the local representative.

Anyone interested in watching the meeting can view it online at www.fingalcoco.ie

COUNCIL: N3 SCHEME June completion for pedestrian crossing WORK on a new pedestrian crossing at the busy N3 beside St Brigid’s GAA club is to be complete by early June.

According to a spokesperson for Fingal County Council, the pedestrian crossing scheme on the N3 east of Auburn Avenue is promoted by the National Tranpsort Agency, the National Roads Authority and by FCC. The project is being delivered by M50 Concession Ltd and the

works is programmed to be completed by early June 2011.

The council report was in response to a motion put down by Fianna Fail councillor Mags Murray asking the manager to confirm when the ESB will supply power for the lighting signals at the pedestrian crossing on the N3.

According to the councillor, this facility is urgently needed as “many pedestrians are already crossing at the location”.

6 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5 May 2011

EVENT: RECYCLING

CHARITY: LOCAL YOUTH CLUB PUTS ON DAZZLING FASHION SHOW

Tonnes of spring cleaning in Fingal

Stylish kids raise €2,700 for hospice

Q LAURA WEBB

Q LAURA WEBB castleknock@gazettegroup.com

Having a ball : A black-tie event to celebrate all things Leinster rugby IT’S TIME to get the glad rags on for the annual Leinster Rugby Awards Ball, which will take place this month in the Burlington Hotel. Dave Kearney, Nathan Hines and Isa Nacewa (above) and the rest of the team are calling on its supporters to come along and enjoy the evening with them, which will honour all the hard work and effort put in by those involved in rugby throughout Leinster.

Among those to be recognised at the black-tie event will be inter-provincial players, amateur clubs, schools and volunteers through awards such as Player of the Year, Club of the Year, School of the Year and Try of the Year. The night will kick off with a drinks reception at 7.30pm and guests will then enjoy a three-course meal before the much-anticipated awards are announced. Tickets for the event are priced at €89 per person and can be purchased on www.leinsterrugby.ie Groups of any number will be catered for at the ball.

ST YLE and glamour has helped members of a local youth club raise over €2,000 for the Dublin 15 St Francis Hospice by putting on a dazzling fashion show in aid of the charity.

Suppor ters of the Localise Youth Club in Castleknock headed down to the Castleknock Hotel and Country Club recently to see some of the best in summer season clothing from the Blanchardstown Centre and the Westend Retail Park had to offer. Clothing showcased on the night came from the stores such as the Suit Company, Benetton, New Look, Next – all at the Westend Retail Park, while stores in from the Blanchardstown Centre included Dunnes Stores, Republic and Best.

This year’s event marks the club’s eighth annual fashion show in aid of the D15 hospice, due to open later this year.

Models on the night were 25 of the club members aged between 13 and 18. Over 150 guests turned up to enjoy the show the teenagers put together.

The successful night raised €2,700 for the D15 Hospice.

Adult leader and volunteer of the Localise Youth Club in Castleknock, Jackie Newmand, said: “The D15 Hospice is a charity that everyone will know someone who

will, at some stage of their life, have need of care in a hospice. It is not up and running yet, but it will be a great asset to the community. The care that the nurses give the patients, and for the family to know their loved ones are getting the best care possible, it’s a really good cause.”

Over the past eight years, the club has raised a staggering €25,000 for the hospice and now a further €2,700 can be added to that figure.

“We have raised now around €27,000 and we will continue to raise money for the hospice, whether it is a fashion show or not,” Jackie said.

The Localise Youth Club in Castleknock meets every week during the school year from September to May on a Friday night for an hour. The club is for kids of secondary school age between 13 to 18 years old.

“They are either planning a fundraiser or executing one. They are always planning something, but they will always make room for some down-time. They all get something to do and it is really good for them to expand their own capabilities and give them confidence to do things,” she said, adding thar it also shows the importance of giving something back to the community.

For further information, log onto www.localise. ie or email castleknockgroup@localise.ie

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FINGAL residents showed electric enthusiasm to spring cleaning and recycling responsibility when they recycled 15 tonnes of WEEE and Batteries at European Recycling Platform (ERP) recycling days.

Fifteen tonnes of electrical waste and waste batteries were recycled at two ERP Be Free Recycling events in Blanchardstown and IKEA on the April 15 and 16.

Over 400 people made the journey to the recycling days to contribute to the huge amount recycled, which is the equivalent of 1,916 televisions.

Hundreds of large electrical appliances were recycled by homeowners, including washing machines and televisions, as well as smaller electrical equipment like kettles, hairdryers, toasters and computers.

The Be Free Recycling Days gave householders the opportunity to recycle unwanted electrical equipment and waste batteries free of charge.

Martin Tobin, CEO of ERP Ireland, said: “Fingal residents collected an impressive 2000 tonnes of WEEE in total last year and were victorious in the 2010 Recycling Championship. We are extremely pleased that the people of Fingal spring cleaned their homes and turned out in force at the recycling days.”

For full information on this day and other locations around Ireland, simply log onto www.befreewitherp.ie.

CALL THE GAZET TE ON 60 10 240

5 May 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 7

BUSINESS Accenture Leaders of Tomorrow Awards

TRANSPORT: MOTORIST ‘DRIVING ON WRONG SIDE’

Local councillor, Eithne Loftus (FG), says people are a bit confused with the new road lining in the village

‘Confusion’ over road markings Q LAURA WEBB

UCD students, Mark Wiley, Maeve Farrell and John McGovern are pictured with the 2011 judging panel of the Accenture Leaders of Tomorrow Award when they were announced as runners-up. The judges were (L-R) Mark Ryan, country managing director, Accenture Ireland; Bruce Robinson, former Head of NI Civil Service; Mary Lou Nolan, general manager, Cisco Ireland; Liam Kavanagh, managing director, The Irish Times and Josephine Feehily, chairman, Revenue.

Maeve a runner-up in Leaders of Tomorrow Q LAURA WEBB

A CASTLEKNOCK student has been announced as a runner-up in the National Accenture Leaders of Tomorrow Awards, with her group’s RealRoute business idea.

Maeve Farrell and her project partners, Mark Wiley and John McGovern, entered their idea and made it to the final round of this year’s awards.

The Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School students’ RealRoute business idea for a GPS tracing system with smartphone technology, to deliver real-time information to their clients

and their end users, was one of just six to make it to the final round of the nationwide competition.

Primarily, the idea targets logistics-based companies in order to improve the efficiency of their service to provide additional customeradded value. The group said the concept “will instal GPS trackers on the vehicles we wish to trace”.

“The real-time location of these vehicles may then be identified; this information will then be processed through our server interface. This realtime information is used to generate a smartphone application that will be

made free to download in order to encourage mass usage. We believe our idea will provide great value for the end-user because of its convenience and accessibility.”

Overall winner

The overall winner was UCC student, Padraig Horan, for his ‘TAPP’ business concept – a software application which will allow commuters to pay tolling and public transport charges via a single platform on their mobile handset.

T he 2011 judging panel featured some of Ireland’s leading business figures from across various industries and

sectors – Bruce Robinson, former Head of NI Civil Service; Josephine Feehily, chairman, Revenue; Mary Lou Nolan, general manager, Cisco Ireland; along with Mark Ryan, country managing director and Marian Corcoran, client director, of Accenture Ireland.

Accenture’s Mark Ryan said: “Speaking on behalf of the judging panel, who gave generously of their time to the students, we were all inspired by the high calibre of entrants and reassured to know our future is in safe hands.

My heartfelt congratulations goes to Maeve, Mark and John on their

outstanding project submission and I wish to acknowledge the winner, other finalists and competition entrants who are all destined for great success; they are a credit to themselves, their colleges, families and Ireland.”

The Accenture Leaders of Tomorrow Award is open to all third-level final year and post-graduate students from across Ireland. It seeks out innovative and entrepreneurial young talent in order to foster Ireland’s next generation of leaders, who will ultimately shape the public, private and social landscape of this country in coming years.

A NUMBER of motorists have found themselves driving on the wrong side of the road close to Castleknock Village due to confusing new road markings for the new bus corridor.

That’s according to local Fine Gael councillor, Eithne Loftus, who says people are a bit confused with the new road lining, which was part of the Castleknock Quality Bus Corridor works.

The road markings, by the junction of Auburn Avenue heading into Castleknock Village, have continuous white lines at the bus lane and in the middle of the road. According to the councillor, a number of motorists have mistakenly driven on the other side of the road.

“This is really serious.

I think where you have road with continuous white lines delineating a bus lane, then another that doesn’t have broken lines – it’s confusing.

“There was a two-car collision one day because a fella was driving on the wrong lane,” Cllr Loftus

said.

A Dublin Bus (DB) spokesperson was present at an area committee meeting in Fingal offices in Blanchardstown last week. During discussions with the Dublin Bus representative, Cllr Loftus asked if he had received any complaints relating to the confusion of some markings on the road in Castleknock.

Responding to the councillor, the Dublin Bus representative said: “I have received very positive feedback from there. The best eyes we have are the [bus] drivers. I haven’t had an issue with other road users – which is very positive.”

Meanwhile, Labour councillor Peggy Hamill asked if there is a need for a 24-hour bus lane in Castleknock, or even Dublin 15, and whether Dublin Bus would consider putting in a bus lane from 7am to 7pm.

However, the DB representative disagreed, saying he would rather every bus lane be 24 hours. “It teaches people and educates people to stop going into them.”

8 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5 May 2011

SPORT Sizzling sunshine helps children to have a great time

Kids are on the ball for great GAA tips UBLIN senior panellist James Brogan was a guest of honour at the recent St Oliver’s GAA Easter camp, which saw lots of children from across the area gather for some expert coaching and tips in soccer and hurling, with the great Easter sunshine helping everyone to enjoy the camp.

The well-known Brogan clan star was quick to offer his encouragement to the children, who also enjoyed the coaching they received from a number of local experts. One thing’s for sure – St Oliver’s has plenty of up-and-coming talents to draw on in the coming years ...

D

James Brogan takes centre-stage, surrounded by some of the many up-and-coming would-be sports stars who attended the busy camp.

Philippa Walsh, Siobhan Maguire and Robyn Clarke

Alex Kinsella practises his swing

James Brogan and Johnny McGlynn, head coach

Rebecca Carolan, Lisa Scully, Katie Hanna and Jade Merton

Roisin O’Neill, Lucy Phelan and Eva Kearney

5 May 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 9

at St Oliver’s Easter GAA training camp in soccer and hurling

Coaches Lizzy McSweeney and Aoife Mclaughlin with members of the 9-12 girls

Pictures: Peter Doyle

Lorna Byrne, James Brogan and Michelle Bergin with members of the nursery group

Coach Michelle Bergin with Aisling Lynch, Aisling Participants in the boys’ hurling and football academy

Hayes, Eve Higgins and Amy Macken

Coach Michael May with James Brogan and Dara Nederman, Sean Doyle, Diarmuid Hayes, Brandon Parsons and Alex Kinsella

Hurling coach Daragh Brogan leads out his young charges

Cooney, Caoimhe

10 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5 May 2011

EVENT The Crowne Plaza hosts Chamber Network Evening

Colm O’Maolmhuire and Mary Boland

Dave White and Keith Mooney

Social side of business HE Crowne Plaza Blanchardstown was the venue for a recent Business After 6 Network Evening hosted jointly by the Fingal Dublin Chamber and D15 Chamber. The event gave Chamber members an opportunity to make new business contacts and socialise with other business people in a relaxed setting and catch up on topical and relevant issues for businesses in the area. Sean Weafer, of www.SeanWeafer.com, who is an international speaker, author, workshop leader and mentor, was the special guest speaker. Sean has worked for over 25 years in sales and leadership and his expertise is in training people in the psychological and emotional dynamics of sales and leadership and how to use them to develop compelling business relationships and referrals.

Mark Brennan, Fingal Skillsnet; Siobhan Moore, president, Fingal Dublin Chamber, David Donnelly, president, D15 Chamber, and Sean Weafer, speaker at the event

T

Sara Farrell, Waterside House Hotel, and Tony Lambert, CEO Fingal Dublin Chamber

Edward Powell, Eugene Haines and John Lambert

Elaine Stratford, D15 Chamber, and Lil O’Breen, Fingal and North Dublin Skillsnet

Gary and Neill Lawlor with Conor McCabe

Julie Griffin and Damien Heaney

5 May 2011 GAZETTE 11

RETAIL Celebrations kick-off action-packed weekend

Carraig Donn’s new Dublin outlet LADIES fashion, jewellery, accessories and gifts retailer, Carraig Donn, will unveil its brand new store at Dun Laoghaire Shopping Centre, in Dublin, on Thursday, May 12, at 12 noon.

The new store opening celebrations promises to kick-off an actionpacked weekend not to be missed.

Carraig Donn has confirmed that they will have hundreds of special offers in-store to mark the event, along with goodie bags for the first 50 customers on the day. A FREE J’aime la Vie necklace worth €25 will also be given away with all purchases of €50 or more for the opening weekend!!

The new store will showcase the best of Irish and international designer fashion, lifestyle giftware, accessories and jewellery. Carraig Donn will offer a boutique shopping experience with the purchasing power of a larger group.

T he family-ow ned Irish company has relevant, high-fashion and contemporary collection focused on styling and price. Carraig Donn has become Ireland’s leading lifestyle retailer now with 22 stores nationwide showcasing irresistible fashions, jewellery and gifts.

Carraig Donn champions a number of brands – their own label, J’aime la Vie, is seen alongside Vila, Amari, St. Martins and Peruzzi, to usher in every trend and silhouette of the season. All brands have

one thing in common – fantastic prices. The Star Buy of the collection has to be the J’aime la Vie Estelle dress retailing at only €59. The Estelle features one of this season’s hottest looks in crushed fabric. The J’aime la Vie Penny dress is a close second as the season’s star buy, retailing at only €69. I’m sure you’ll agree the Spring Summer 2011 collection is a dream for dress lovers. Carraig Donn caters for every need at a range of budgets making you look fantastic for all occasions, such as Communions, Confirmations and weddings. Knight & Day and Soul jewellery complete the look, with both contemporary and funky pieces.

This winning formula extends to the gift and home departments, making Carraig Donn at Dun Laoghaire a destination store. Customers can enjoy prestigious leading labels, such as Newbridge Silverware, Genesis, Killarney Crystal, and many more as well as novelthemed lifestyle giftware to suit any budget for every occasion.

2011 promises to be a busy year for Carraig Donn with the company celebrating 40 years in retail, more new store openings in the Dublin area and online shopping launching next month!

Last year, the Irish retail company opened a store at Fairgreen Shopping Centre, Carlow, as well as MacDonagh Junction, in Kilkenny, bringing the total number of new jobs

Magnum force: Join Georgia and take a break from the heat J’aime La Vie Penny Dress €69, available at Carraig Donn

created by the company in recent months to in excess of 70 in the southeast. Since its opening, Carraig Donn in MacDonagh Junction, has since gone on to win a

Top 5 Place in the annual Retail Excellence Ireland Store of the Year Awards in 2010.

Join the opening party all this weekend in Carraig Donn at Dun

Laoghaire Shopping Centre, from 12noon on Thursday, May 12, or register your details online at www.carraigdonn.com to get the latest news, promotions and discounts.

GEORGIA Salpa is pictured in the “rainforest” for the launch of the delicious new Magnum Ghana ice cream, part of Magnum’s new Rainforest Alliance Certified™ Magnum Cocoa range. The new Magnum Ghana is made with specially selected cocoa beans sourced from Rainforest Alliance Certified™ farms in Ghana and is an exquisite blend of hazelnut ice cream and delicate milk chocolate sauce.

12 GAZETTE 5 May 2011

GazettePETS PETS Keeping Fido and Kitty cool and safe

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: TAKE PRECAUTIONS TO KEEP YOUR PET SAFE IN THE SUMMER HEAT

T’S May and temperatures are rising, so, officially, we’re in the midst of summer and you know how we girlies love to get our bodies into shape for that all important bout of sunbathing.

(I’ll let you into my body beautiful secret – I’ve added a salad to every meal. The weight should be dropping off any day now!)

Ah, yes, roll on the aroma of the family barbecue and the frenzied dash to smother the kids with sun block – even though we know we’ll never see blue skies and searing sun for more than a few days at a time.

But wait, did you forget something? What about Fido and Kitty? Did you know that hot weather can pose a real threat to your pets?

Let me put this simply.

Animals CANNOT tolerate extreme temperatures.

So, as a responsible pet owner, you must make absolutely sure that when the sun does make an appearance, you’ve taken precautions to keep your pet safe.

I

Here are some tips to help you out:

Never leave your animal in a car. Pet owners should know the dangers of leaving any animal in a hot car – even for just a few minutes.

This particularly applies to dogs who love to travel in a car and it’s tempting to let them go to the supermarket with you, but don’t leave your dog inside, even with the windows open.

Temperatures don’t have to be in the 30s for a car-bound dog to be in serious trouble. Even at much lower temperatures, even under a cloud-

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

‘Temperatures in air-conditioned cars can reach the same temperature as outside within just five minutes of being turned off’ --------------------------

less sky, the humidity inside the car turns it into a sauna.

Research has shown that if it’s a sunny 25 degrees, the temperature in a car, with the windows closed, rises rapidly in 30 minutes. In short, 25 to 40C+ in half an hour!

Temperatures in airconditioned cars can reach the same temperature as outside within just five minutes of being turned off.

This means, on a hot day, it takes a matter of

minutes for a dog to end up organ damaged or dead!

If you must take your dog out in the car, make sure you have him well strapped in. Purchase a car safety harness for your dog. This is for your safety as much as his! They’re available in any good pet shop or from our Dublin SPCA gift shop. Cats should always be in pet carriers when travelling in the car.

One small jolt in traffic can have a very sad result for an unsecured pet. If you’re forced to brake suddenly, an unsecured animal can be thrown forward, hitting you in the back of the head or neck, causing painful injuries to both you and your pet.

Make sure the car window is open while driving – enough to give your animal plenty of ventilation.

Don’t leave your dog in the car if you need to leave your vehicle.

If your dog pants quickly, looks very tired or collapses, he could be suffering from heatstroke.

Put him in a cool, shady spot and spray his body with cool water, or give him a cool (not cold) bath immediately.

Never cool your dog so much that he/she begins to shiver. Let your dog drink small amounts of cool water. Contact a veterinary surgeon urgently

You must always remember that your dog has no sweat glands, which can affect them badly in hot weather. Be responsible, and remember some simple things to help your dog – or other pets – stay cool and well in summer.

for further advice as heatstroke can prove fatal.

Be responsible

Leave your dog at home. Place his bed/kennel in a shaded area, and he will automatically go to it when he needs rest from the hot sun.

Leave plenty of water and leave it in the shaded area. Check water bowls

regularly to make sure there’s plenty of fresh water available.

Never exert your dog during hot weather.

When walking your dog, remember there are areas and times during the day where temperatures soar.

It makes sense to walk your dog in the early morning or late evening, when temperatures are

lower and the hot concrete won’t burn sensitive paws.

Always take along water for yourself and your dog. Stop frequently to allow both of you to have a refreshing drink.

Many domestic animals do not sweat to keep cool.

Dogs have no sweat glands and can only lose heat by panting. Make sure they always have plenty of water to help them keep cool. Tip: Temperatures are at their highest during mid-day and 3pm. Avoid these times.

Keep your pet groomed

Very important during hot weather. If your pet has long hair then that’s akin to you wearing a fur coat in 33C! Regular brushing helps remove the winter under-

coat and helps your pet regulate his body temperature. Apply sunscreen to pets with white tipped ears and noses. Tip: Children’s sunscreen, Factor 50+ is particularly good.

Insects

Make sure your pet receives regular flea preventatives. And keep that first aid kit close by in case of bee and wasp stings.

Water Safety

If your dog likes the water, he’ll instinctively want to swim during the hot weather so put a life jacket on him.

Remember, even the healthiest of pets will suffer in extreme temperatures, so please take the above precautions.

If you’d like more information log onto www. dspca.ie or email me at miriam.kerins@dspca.ie

5 May 2011 GAZETTE 13

YOUR STORY Taking to two wheels after winter

Top tips for riding safe this summer AS the evenings start to get brighter, and the cold snap has, hopefully, passed, we will be longing to get back to two wheels, perhaps after an absence of many months.

But spare a thought for your bike. What effect has the winter break had on it? Has it been stored inside, warm and dry, or outside exposed to all sort of weather, engine lying idle, oil turning to sludge?

Tyres sitting in the same unmoved position for months, the loss of air and the weight of the bike, playing their part in damage to the sidewalls. Rubber hoses can also crack and perish, so take a look at the water hoses, brake lines, etc.

Chains can also become dry, causing kinks and tight spots, and brake pads can stick and cause problems.

Moving parts that don’t move as freely as they should need attention, start with a thorough wash and clean, checking all parts as you go. Are all the lights working? Clutch, throttle, brakes, etc.

If you do not have the skills to sort problems yourself, leave it to the experts to get your bike ready for the road again.

OK, now the bike is sorted, what about you?

Having not ridden your bike for a few months, it can take time for your skills to return to a safe level. Your awareness of what’s going on around you, and your reactions to the many hazards we face may be slow, it will take time and practise to be competent again Although the weather is improving, there are still plenty of hazards. It’s still possible to find frosty patches of road early in the morning and dazzling,

low sunlight, can still be a problem.

It’s fantastic being able to get back out on the road, but riders who’ve not been out during the winter need to allow some time to get back up to speed. In your mind, you will remember how well you were riding at the end of last year.

But, after a lay-off of a few months, you are not going to be at the same level, or as alert.

Perhaps this would be a good time to get advice from an approved riding instructor, and gain confidence in your riding, learn to recognise the dangers, and become a safer and

more responsible motorcyclist. Perhaps this will be the year that you take the motorcycle riding test, or take that bike trip that you always wanted to do.

Either way, with these new skills you could also qualify for a discount on your insurance cost; it may even save your life.

Your insurance company will have a list of approved instructors in your area.

Please note that anybody providing tuition for payment must be an RSA Approved Driving Instructor (ADI); see www.rsa.ie for a list of instructors in your area.

Enjoy the summer and Ride Safe.

W

Q TOM CARLETON Motorcycle riding instructor ADI

Interview: Jessica Alba shares her thoughts on the Fockers

Spare a thought for your bike’s condition after the cold winter months

ENTERTAINMENT PAGE 25

14 GAZETTE 5 May 2011

GazetteGAMING GAMING

Nintendo are soon to launch the Wii Play: Motion, the new version of the classic mini-games set which comes with a special red Wii Remote Plus

Xperia PLAY: the world’s first Playstationcertified smartphone SONY ERICSSON has announced that Xperia PLAY, the world’s first Playstationcertified Smartphone, is now available exclusively in The Carphone Warehouse stores nationwide.

The game-changing Xperia PLAY, is the latest phone in Sony Ericsson’s Xperia range of Android-based smartphones and delivers the smartphone functionality that the most serious power users could need, teamed with the immersive gaming experience that any gamer would want.

In portrait mode, the Android smartphone offers all the benefits that consumers have come to expect from Sony Ericsson’s existing range of Xperia smartphones, with best-in-class entertainment experiences, a great five-megapixel camera, a brilliant four-inch multi-touch screen and great social networking features.

A new world

However, slide out the gaming control and users enter a new world of immersive mobile gaming. The slide-out game pad reveals a digital D pad, two analogue touch pads, two shoulder buttons and the four PlayStation icons: circle, cross, square and triangle.

Qualcomm’s optimised Snapdragon processor with a 1Ghz CPU and embedded Adreno GPU graphics processor deliver silky smooth 60fps play-back 3D mobile gaming and Web browsing with minimal power consumption so Xperia PLAY users can enjoy long hours of battery life and game time.

XperiaTM PLAY will run on Gingerbread (version 2.3), the latest version of Google’s Android platform. The Xperia PLAY will also be the first PlayStation Certified device.

This means it will have access to PlayStation game content provided through the PlayStation Suite initiative, currently under development by Sony Computer Entertainment and due to launch later this calendar year.

A mini-game for all with Wii Play:Motion Q ROB HEIGH

NINTENDO’S Wii has become the ubiquitous and most popular games console in the world, and shortly, the Kyoto games “brain trust” are launching the Wii Play: Motion, the new version of the classic mini-games set that has launched so many gamers on their Wii mission.

The new iteration comes with a special red Wii Remote Plus, the motion sensitive controller that started to be bundled with the consoles for the last year.

Wii Remote Plus combines

the original Wii Remote controller with the precision of the Wii MotionPlus accessory – to deliver great value, precise motion control and immersive social fun that anyone in the household can pick up.

As you make your way through the 12 mini-games, which have multiple game modes for added depth to gameplay, see every swing, tilt, hit and spin of your Wii Remote Plus come to life, as it becomes faithfully replicated on your TV screen with exacting precision. From Treasure Twirl where the Wii Remote Plus acts

as a “winch” to collect deep-sea treasure, to Cone Zone – where you tilt the Wii Remote Plus in the correct position to balance ice cream within a giant waffle cone and stop it from falling, whilst extra scoops are being added – there’s a mini-game for everyone to enjoy.

Each of the 12 mini-games included can be played in single player mode, yet, if you fancy a different experience and want to get your friends and family involved, then the multiple game modes of a selection of Wii Play: Motion mini-games allow for up

to three other people to join in on the fun, ensuring your game play experience is always a truly unique one.

For example, in the mini-game Skip Skimmer, where you can skip stones along a lake, there is a Score Mode in which up to four players take it in turn to skip stones through a series of rings with the aim of getting to the target at the end. By strategically angling the Wii Remote Plus you can compete against your friends to get the highest score in order to win the game. Wii Play: Motion is released on June 24.

PlayStation 3 sales reach 50 million SALES of PlayStation Move motion controller for PlayStation 3 (PS3) has surpassed eight million units worldwide, accelerating the expansion of the PS3 Platform.

Sony Computer Entertainment Inc (SCE) has announced that the cumulative sales of the PS3 computer entertainment system reached a milestone of 50 million units worldwide, as of March 29, 2011. SCE also announced that PlayStation Move sales surpassed eight million units worldwide as of April 3, demonstrating continued growth and momentum of the PS3 platform.

The PS3 system, equipped with futureproof, cutting–edge technologies, including the powerful Cell Broadband Engine

and RSX processors, as well as the Blu-ray disc player and HDMI, has delivered users with high-definition and high-quality entertainment experience since its launch in November 2006. The PS3 system continues to evolve and enhance the user experience through new features and services delivered via software updates.

Communication

With the introduction of PS3, SCE launched PlayStation Network service, which now has more than 75 million registered accounts and operates in 59 countries and regions around the world. PlayStation Network supports free community-centric

online gameplay and communication tools such as PlayStation Home, and offers vast downloadable digital content through the PlayStation Store.

SCE launched PlayStation Move in September 2010 for North America, Europe/ PAL territories and in Asia, and in October 2010 for Japan, to deliver a new entertainment experience across all categories of games, from casual to immersive.

The PlayStation Move motion controller is used in combination with the PlayStation Eye camera to detect the precise movement, angle, and absolute position in 3D space of the user, thereby allowing users to intuitively play as if they are within the game.

5 May 2011 GAZETTE 15

GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY

Edited by Dawn Love

Get the Kate look for your big day ...

DAWN LOVE

SHE’S now one of the most photographed women in the world, and while her legendary tresses are styled at London hairdresser Richard Ward’s salon, Kate Middleton showed her independent streak by doing her own make-up for the big day.

With most brides on an economy drive Kate also showed that you don’t need a make-up artist to achieve the perfect bridal look.

Just days before she tied the knot with Prince William last Friday, the willowy brunette was spotted shopping at a Lancome make-up counter.

A true classic skincare and make-up brand, Kate stocked up on several products last week, including Hydra Zen Neurocalm™ Soothing Anti-Stress Moisturising Cream, €50.50; Lancôme Hypnose Mascara in Black, €25.50 and Lancôme Artliner €27.00.

Lancome’s national

make-up artist says Benjamin Rousseau, Kate’s everyday make-up is natural, understated and very pretty - and this didn’t change very much for her wedding day.

“It's really what i expected - subtle yet enhances and highlights everything that's most beautiful about her face, especially her eyes, which has always been her signature.

“As you would expect her skin was glowing, with a f lawless light radiant foundation. As we know, she wears Lancome, I wouldn’t be at all surprised if she was wearing Lancome’s no1 Bridal foundation Teint Miracle, which allows light from the skin to be reflected out.

“Shades 01 and 03 contain slightly yellow tones, which absorb light from flash photography, neutralising her complextion ensuring it is smooth and looks flawless.

“I love the way she has combined subtle, pinky, blush tones - really to give her a beautiful bridal flush, and she applied

these on the apples of her cheeks, sweeping up to fantastic cheekbones.

“This also really complemented her chic, natural hair that she wore part up and part down with lovely curl at the back, but away from her face,” says Rousseau.

Eyes “I LOVE that Kate kept to her usual eye liner –it’s her trademark and suits her perfectly. All she has done is soften the look by blending it well into her lash line and left it strong on the lower part.

Lips “KATE went for a subtle, natural nude pink colour – it’s really an enhancement of her natural lip, but will always look classic and pretty no matter what the era, so photographs won't look dated.

Over all it is the ultimate bridal make up and enhancement of her natural style and, applied with such skill, it makes me wonder if she really did it herself,” he said.

The new Duchess of Cambridge used her own selection of products to achieve a fresh and natural look for the Royal Wedding. Hydra Zen Neurocalm Soothing Anti-stress Moisturising Cream, Lancôme Hypnose Mascara and Lancôme Artliner

Become a bronze beauty with some serious summer sun tips AS Ireland basked in glorious sunshine last week it was time to get the pins out. But if we’re all honest about it, after months hidden away during the winter an Irish girl’s legs are likely to be a distinctly pasty shade of pale.

But help is at hand with top selftanning brand, He-Shi. And to make it even easier this popular brand has just introduced their new Discovery Kit that contains 50ml travel sizes of all its products.

Ideal for weekends away, a business trip overnighter, or simply for

your handbag, the new kit is priced at €21.25, and contains three 50ml products, including the He-Shi Exfoliating Bodywash to help prepare the skin first, the He-Shi Express Liquid Tan and for those who want to start off gradually this summer, the kit also contains the HeShi Day to Day Gradual Tan. The He-Shi Miniature Tanning

Mitt is also included for perfect application. The Discovery kit’s three-step process ensures your exfoliation, application and aftercare are always as good as you expect, wherever you are!

This compact and conveniently-sized tanning kit is the ideal solution for the ultimate glowing tan. He-Shi’s products are designed especially for Irish skin tones, helping create the

most kissable complexion for enviably glowing skin.

The He-Shi Discovery Kit comes in a stylish transparent travel bag finished with a white trim, which can be reused to store all of your tanning and beauty products again and again!

He-Shi products are available from selected department stores, including Brown Thomas, salons and day spas. For your nearest stockist of He-Shi, contact Euro Products on T: +44 (0) 28 9044 9744 or www.europroducts.co.uk

16 GAZETTE 5 May 2011

SNAPSHOT The stories of the day GAZETTE COMMENT

Getting outdoors safely this summer

N

OW that the winter is well and truly over, it is time to look forward to getting outside in the sunshine and enjoying as much activity as possible.

Every opportunity to enjoy the wealth of local amenities across Dublin must be taken – from the incredible public parks and cycle routes, to the Capital’s enviable choice of high-ranking beaches and swimming spots, we are truly spoilt for choice.

It goes without saying, that, in order to enjoy these facilities, those using them must do so responsibly.

There is nothing worse than stepping through empty crisp packets and plastic, or worse, glass bottles – either at the beach or in our local parks.

Dublin’s local councils must be commended for the lengths they go to in order to maintain these facilities, but they simply don’t have the resources to do everything.

Weather The fine weather also brings with it the wonderful ‘stretch in the evenings’, that sees many people walking running, cycling or just meeting friends a good deal later than they usually would.

But it is so important that people

in the community remain vigilant, and keep an eye out for each other.

Already in west Dublin in recent weeks, two young girls were reported missing. One later returned home, but the other has not yet done so, with gardai appealing for information.

In the Swords area, there have been numerous worrying reports of “attempted abductions”.

One national newspaper claimed that there had been as many as four in recent weeks.

Local Gardai have moved to calm fears over the reports, saying that, while there have been inappropriate approaches to minors, it was wrong to categorise the incidents as attempted abductions.

In the same area, gardai are appealing for witnesses of a daylight assault on a woman in her mid-twenties.

This incident shows just how vigilant we have to be, as it happened at 11.25 am while the woman was out running.

What must be remembered, is that our parks and public amenities are wonderful places that can be used often and safely.

By simply being aware of our surroundings, and looking out for each other, there is no reason that we can’t make full use of them throughout the summer months.

GazetteContacts Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 6010240 Fax: 01 6010251 Managing Director: Liam Holland email: lholland@gazettegroup.com

General Manager: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com

Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com

Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com

News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com

Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com

Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com

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

Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

Dining, and donating, for a good cause...

Maurice Murphy, Glenda Murphy, Vivienne Thompson and Ciaran Smith were at the Eatzen Restaurant Dine and Donate event in Ashbourne, where over €5,000 was raised for the Ireland Japan Association Earthquake Appeal

Making a movie date at midnight MIDNIGHT Movies, a new series of midnight cult cinema screenings, opens on Friday, May 13, with a screening of Russ Meyer’s classic film, Faster, Pussycat! Kill! Kill!

Brought from the team behind Film Fatale, Midnight Movies will bridge the gap between conventional cinema and late-night fun, playing the best of grindhouse, blaxploitation, exploitation, horror, underground, and cult classics.

Event producer Fernanda Parente said: “Midnight Movies offers cult film fans an opportunity to enjoy the experience of midnight movie-going, which goes all the way back to New York of the 1970s where eccentric films were played at midnight to equally eccentric film lovers.

“Films that had failed in the box office were given extended runs, while repeat viewers would often dress up and interact with the films. We aim to create the same environment.”

Tura Satana, Haji, and Lori Williams star as Varla, Rosie and Billy who, while racing cars in the desert, meet a young couple. After taking care of the boyfriend, they kidnap the girlfriend and head on a spree of mayhem.

The screening will be followed by a special cult film retro set by

DIARY DJ Shrem.

Midnight Movies launches with Faster Pussycat! Kill! Kill! on Friday, May 13, midnight at the Sugar Club, 8 Lower Leeson Street, Dublin 2.

Tickets are priced €9/€7 students, and is strictly over 18.

Doors open at 11pm. For more information go to http://midnightmovienights.blogspot.com or visit www.facebook.com/midnightmovienight.

Free flights with every pint BULMERS have teamed up with The Grafton Lounge to give away a free return flight to a European destination when a pint bottle of the new Bulmers Lite is purchased in The Grafton Lounge this Friday, May 6, from 8.30pm onwards.

General manager, John Ennis, says it is going to be a great night and people should get in early to avoid disappointment. “It promises to be a great night, with Dj Johnny Hammond playing the best in summer tunes and 2-for-1 cocktails

throughout the night.”

For more information go to www.facebook.com/thegraftonlounge

Holy sunburn!

THE Workman’s Club is going al fresco!

We’re not sniggering at those who have booked holidays on the continent, but is there ANYTHING worse than spending a fortune on dodgy Santa Ponsa beach towels, nuclear yellow cocktails and Billy Bulldog’s British Breakfast when, in fact, at home in the dirty ole town, it’s SSSSSS-SCORCHIO!!!!!

Wish you were here? – we bet you do!

And, as if by some sort of divine moment of timing, as the skies clear and the sun blazes down, Dublin’s loveliest venue announces the launch of The Roof @ The Workman’s Club.

Yes, you heard it right! An entire roof’s worth of hanging out space, which will be an outdoors-indoors all-weather deck of fun. The Roof @ The Workman’s will have its own bar, BBQ area, heating, seating and very soon it will also have a wonderful Persian area, where Workmen can sample (legal) tasty hookah delights.

5 May 2011 GAZETTE 17

MUSIC Up-and-coming groups compete for Toronto gig

Local bands hope for shot at Indie Week A NUMBER of Ireland’s hottest up-and-coming bands will take to stages around the country next week as Indie Week Ireland comes to town, with a number of local groups vying for the chance to play Toronto.

Indie Week, the brainchild of Canadian indiescene stalwart, Darryl Hurs, is a two-country music festival in which over 150 bands a year showcase their talents for public, press and industry.

In the Irish version, bands play hoping to win a slot at Indie Week Toronto, and vice-versa.

To that end, Toronto electro-pop/new-wavers, These Electric Lives, will be playing on all the bills, as part of their prize as winners of the Toronto event in October, 2010.

The band combines influences to create a sound that has been described as reminiscent “of happier days in the

Last Second Magic

Cure, mixed with a few guitar licks from U2”.

On the local end of things, Lucan favourites, The Riptide Movement, will play the May 13 showcase in The Grand Social on Liffey St. As anyone in Lucan can tell you, The Riptide Movement are riding the crest of a wave.

Music bible, Hot Press, has called them “a thrilling live proposition that leaves crowds wondering how on earth they haven't passed out”.

On the Irish festival circuit, they have a busy

The Riptide Movement

summer ahead, with Indiependence, Vantastival, Sea Sessions, Temple House, The Leixlip Festival, Shamrock Festival, Abbey Fest, Festival of Fires, No Place like Dome all on their slate.

They take the stage at 9.15pm on the Friday, hoping to move into Saturday’s final.

Made up of Blanchardstown, Castleknock and Dundrum natives, The Dirty 9s, fresh from their own trip to Toronto for Canadian Music Week, will close the festival on Saturday, May 14, with

a set at 11.50pm in The Grand Social on Indie Week Finals night.

The Dirty 9s released their debut album “Stop Screaming, Start Dreaming”, produced by Greg Haver (Manic Street Preachers) in 2010 to critical acclaim.

Described by RTE. ie as “plenty of energy.. nice hooks” and by State. ie as “a record of youthful endeavour – bags of promise”.

At 10pm in Sweeney’s, Dame St on May 11, two bands from Gazette Newspapers areas take

The Dirty 9s

to separate stages at the same time as part of Indie Week’s launch party.

Sixteen Layers are past winners of Indie Week, having claimed the crown at the 2009 event.

From there, their debut album, I Am No One, was hailed a “sonic tour-deforce” by Hot Press and Toronto’s Music Vice called their Indie Week stand “one of the best shows I’ve ever seen in Toronto”.

Hailing from Dun Laoghaire, K insealy, Castleknock and Lucan, the band are preparing to

follow-up their impressive debut album.

Meanwhile, downstairs, Indie WeekToronto alumni, Blanchardstown’s Last Second Magic, take to the stage, hoping to earn a return to Toronto following their selection for the 2010 Toronto edition.

The band took the name for their recently released second EP We Miss You, Black Stalin from a painting in the Canadian city, but that was not all they gained.

Following a set at the festival, the band signed with a Canadian manage-

ment company.

Indie Week Ireland takes place between May 11 and May 14. May 11’s launch party in Sweeney’s, Dame St is free admission, before the event moves to Auntie Anne’s in Belfast, where tickets will cost £6.

The Grand Social on Liffey St then hosts the final two gigs on Friday, May 13 and Saturday, May 14. Friday’s event kicks off at 7pm and Saturday’s at 8pm. Tickets for both cost €4, before 9pm, and €6 after.

For more information, see www.indieweek.com

18 GAZETTE 5 May 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs GM EXPECTS TO SELL MORE OPEL/VAUXHALL CARS THIS YEAR: GENERAL

Motors reports that it expects to sell 10,000 to 15,000 more Opel cars in Europe than originally forecast this year. GM Europe President, Nick Reilly said in an interview with Dow Jones, that strong demand in markets, such as Germany and Russia, will more than compensate for weaker sales in countries such as Spain and Portugal.

Opel/Vauxhall is GM’s second bestselling brand after Chevrolet, but is the company’s only unprofitable division.

Better sales will help GM Europe to reach its goal of breaking even this year before restructuring costs and making a profit next year. The division is reducing production capacity by a fifth and cutting around 8,000 jobs.

Jeep will be offering a new Compass model as an affordable and stylish two-wheel drive version from the end of this year for Irish buyers, with prices that are expected to be very competitive, according to Fiat Ireland, which will be the official importer from the middle of this year.

New direction for Compass Jeep is to relaunch its vehicles this summer in Ireland as Fiat takes over the brand. The most important is the new Compass, as MICHAEL MORONEY found out.

WAS in Italy recently, test driving the new Jeep Compass, the car that the newly revitalised Jeep brand is hoping will spearhead the rebirth of the brand in Ireland.

And there is some truth to that conviction, as the new Jeep Compass has been upgraded with better styling, new engines and a new level of European on-road handling.

That will make it a real competitor in the smaller SUV segment.

The important news for the redesigned Jeep Compass is the arrival of a Mercedes Benz-built 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine. This engine will be offered with two power outputs options in Ire-

I

SPECS: COMPASS 2.2 CRD 4X2 Top speed: 201km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 11.5 sec Economy: 18.5 km/litre (5.4l/100km) CO2 emissions: 161g/km (152 g/km Jan 2012) Road Tax Band: C (€302) expected Entry Price: €24,000 approx

land, either 136bhp or 163bhp. The peak torque or pulling power remains the same for both engines at 320Nm. Jeep, in Europe, is being managed by the Fiat Group after Fiat took what is now a 30% share in the Chrysler company from the US government as part of a financial bail-

out. Fiat expects to have more than 46% of Chrysler by the end of June.

Jeep, as a brand, is a very important part of the Chrysler deal – important for Fiat for the future, as it gives the company an instant access point to the SUV and 4x4 market on a world-wide scale. The success of the Compass will be pivotal for Jeep in Europe in achieving its optimistic sales goal of pushing sales from a current 15,000 units to over 150,000 units by 2014.

With the new Compass, Jeep has responded to the demand for two-wheeldrive versions of modern family-type SUVs. The new Compass, with the lower-output engine, will

be available with frontwheel drive only.

Jeep claims that its performance is moreor-less on a par with the high-power unit. The high-power unit is offered with all-wheel drive only and boasts an increased 2,000kg towing capacity.

When launched during the summer months, the 136bhp version’s emission of 161g/km of CO2 will place it in VRT Band D. The more powerful 163bhp, all-wheel drive model produces 172g/km (VRT Band E).

Those figures are still a shade too high and Fiat Powertrain Technologies is working with Jeep to substantially reduce these emission figures further.

Jeep reckons that, by the time customers will start place their orders in Ireland for January, 2012, deliveries, the new Jeep Compass 2.2-litre CRD 4x2 Limited should fall into VRT Band C, further lowering the price and making it a far more costeffective car to own.

In styling terms, the Fiat influence has made a difference. The new Jeep Compass has a new front end that’s closer in design to the bigger 2011 Grand Cherokee.

Naturally, being a Jeep, the 4x4 version of the Compass offers offroad capability and this is thanks to its Freedom Drive I full-time 4x4 system. It also features a

lockable, electronicallycontrolled centre differential for tackling more extreme conditions such as deeper snow and sand.

The Compass’ 4X4 system works in conjunction with the stability control, ABS and Brake Traction Control systems to ensure the good handling and traction characteristics.

The proof of the car is in the driving. The Compass can drive well with plenty of power in the entry-level model, which we drove across rural roads near Baracco, near Milan.

The acceleration proved its worth, but it was the handling and road-holding of the car that impressed me most of all.

The Scrappage Scheme is ending – so act now!

THE Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) has advised motorists who are considering buying a car under the Scrappage Scheme, to order as soon as possible as the scheme ends in just nine weeks time.

SIMI advised that, while the scheme officially ends on June 30, a dealer

may require a number of weeks to order and take delivery of your car. So, if customers don’t want to be disappointed, they need to shop now.

SIMI reported that, so far this year, sales of new cars are up on last year, driven by the Government Scrappage Scheme and the great discounts availa-

ble. With not long left until the scheme ends, SIMI is anticipating a rise in the number of scrappage enquiries at dealerships in the next few weeks.

The Governments Car Scrappage Scheme provides for VRT relief when a new passenger car with CO2 emissions of not more than 140g/km (i.e.

CO2 band A or B) is purchased and registered, and another passenger car over 10 years old is scrapped.

The scheme runs until June 30, 2011.

The VRT relief available is €1,250 for qualifying vehicles registered during the period January 1, 2011 to June 30, 2011.

5 May 2011 GAZETTE 19

20 GAZETTE 5 May 2011

GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY DUN LAOGHAIRE: THREE-BED SEMI-DETACHED FOR €349,000

Granny’s delight at Johnstown Road

14 Millmount Grove, top, and 42 Camberly Oaks

DUNDRUM: RANGE OF NEW PROPERTIES

Homes in Milltown and Churchtown SHERRY FitzGerald are bringing a number of new properties to the market at the moment.

The first featured is No 14, Millmount Grove, a hidden gem situated close to Milltown, Clonskeagh and Dundrum.

This two-bed terraced cottage that benefits from a quiet, leafy location, and will no doubt appeal to a wide variety of buyers.

This stylish home, which has been beautifully renovated, enjoys a bright crisp interior with contemporary light-filled living/bedroom accommodation coupled with an airy kitchen and private sunny rear garden with large decked area ideal for dining al fresco.

The other property is No 42, Camberly Oaks, Churchtown, Dublin 14, with an asking price of €350,000.

This three-bedroom terraced house measures 84 sq m, and is positioned off Upper Churchtown Road, close to Dundrum and Churchtown.

The property would be a great trade down or first home and offers the discerning purchaser 904 sq ft of bright and airy accommodation.

Internally, there is a living room, kitchencum-dining room, w.c., three bedrooms, bathroom and is further enhanced by a private 33ft south-facing rear garden, ideal for those with a keen eye for gardening.

To the front there is a communal parking area and landscaped borders.

The sun-drenched rear garden has a sunny south-facing orientation ideal for enjoying the evening sun with patio area, ideal for outside dining or simply relaxing.

The properties are avaible to view by appointment, which can be arranged through Sherry FitzGerald’s Dundrum branch on 296 1822.

GUNNE are bringing No 21 Johnstown Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin, a three-bedroom semidetached house in south County Dublin to the market for the asking price of €349,000.

This bright and airy three-bedroom family home, of c117 sq m, boasts a large, attractive 98ft rear garden and a spacious front garden with ample off-street parking.

The property features a converted garage to the side of the house which is used as a self-contained granny flat, with its own door access, front and rear.

There is great potential to further extend to the rear of the property or

Number 21, Johnstown Road, Dun Laoghaire

convert the attic, subject to the necessary planning permission.

The property itself comprises entrance hall, living room with gas fireplace, a kitchen/dining room with tiled floor, fitted with wall and floor

units, built-in storage cupboards and is plumbed for washing machine.

The bedrooms feature built-in wardrobes and the bathroom is thoroughly tiled.

The granny f lat is situated to the side of

the house and is selfcontained, with separate own door entrance to the front and access to the rear garden. It features an open-plan living room/kitchen, with fitted wall and floor units, cooker and is plumbed for washing machine, a shower room with Triton T90si electric shower and bedroom.

There is a gated front garden with a paved driveway providing off street parking for two cars, the garden is mainly lawned and bordered by mature hedges and plants. The large 98ft rear garden boasts a decked patio, ideal for al-fresco dining, and is bordered by mature plants and

trees.

There is gas central heating in the property, with a newly installed Baxi boiler, and there are double-glazed windows throughout.

Ideally located within close proximity of a host of local amenities including excellent primary and secondary schools, shops and leisure facilities. The area is also close to good transport links, including the N11 and M50 which are within easy access and regular bus services to and from the city.

Viewing is by appointment only, and can be arranged by contacting Gunne on 01 280 1719 or e-mail dunlaoghaireoffice@gunne.ie.

RATHMINES: ORNATE PERIOD RESIDENCE REDUCED IN PRICE

Kensington Lodge a palace in the south

FINNEGAN Menton are bringing No 107 Grove Park, Rathmines, Dublin 6, an ornate Queen Anne-style detached residence in the heart of Rathmines, with four bedrooms to the market at the reduced price of €1.2m.

Kensington Lodge is a majestic period residence extremely conveniently located on Grove Park, which is a quiet residential road off Rathmines Road, close to Portobello Bridge.

The property extends to 3,000 sq ft and has a secluded garden with off-street parking.

This proper ty was designed by William Isaac Chambers, for himself, in 1882 in Queen Anne-style. Kensington Lodge was lovingly restored and sympathetically modernised by the current owners over

the past 30 years and is undoubtedly now one of the finest period residences in the area.

The property comprises hallway, drawing room with dual aspect, elegant, grey marble mantle piece, cast-iron fireplace with tiled inset, and polished wood floor.

The kitchen is fully modernised, with Rayburn cooker, with brick feature surround. There are full-length Shakerstyle maple cupboards, granite worktops and feature island unit with sink unit and storage presses.

There is an integrated fridge, double oven, grill, electric hob with extractor and dishwasher.

The sitting room has a wood-burning stove with recessed book shelves to either side, wood panelled ceiling, laminated

The kitchen at Kensington Lodge

wood floor and folding French doors to garden.

The four bedrooms are well-sized and appointed, and there is an attic room with large velux window and feature circular leaded-stained glass window and a pitched, painted wood ceiling.

There are views of the Dublin Mountains.

This superb location offers a tranquil environment just a five-minute stroll from bustling Rathmines Village and within an easy walk of Dublin City Centre (1.25km).

The area is superbly served by a myriad of shops, restaurants, and pubs with numerous schools, churches and

other public amenities all at hand, complimented by an excellent public transport system, including Luas, for those not wishing to walk to Dublin City Centre.

For more information, contact Iain Finnegan or Richard Carrigan on (01) 614 7900 or e-mail info@ finneganmenton.ie.

5 May 2011 GAZETTE 21

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS Furnishing what customers want

Supported by AIB

Interview: Graham Costigan, general manager, Room To Room

DUCA Furniture, trading as Room To Room, started business more than 10 years ago as a furniture wholesaler.

Given the tough economic conditions prevailing in the country, the company decided to take their furniture directly to the public, with a benefit for the customer being the excellent value the company says it offers all year long.

Talking to the Gazette this week, general manager Graham Costigan told us about his career and the company.

“I was born what seems like an eternity ago in Dublin, I spent seven years living in Germany, and came back to Ireland 12 years ago.

“Since leaving school (Joey’s in Fairview) I’ve run pubs, an accounts department and a freight company before joining Duca Furniture about a year ago.

“I enjoy work, golf, travel, a couple of drinks now and then and relaxing with [partner] Karen, but not necessarily in that order!” Graham says.

“Duca Furniture started business over 10 years ago as a furniture wholesaler. Based on the outskirts of Dundalk, we have a state-of-the-art 75,000 sq ft warehouse facility. Our showrooms in Santry, Fonthill and Leopardstown are decked out in the best of furniture.

“We sell quality and pride ourselves on this. There are plenty of furniture retailers, but we feel we have some of the best furniture out there. And, as we’re a wholesaler by

Q: What was your first job?

A: I worked in Dunnes in the northside, stacking shelves and sweeping floors. Oh, how I miss those days ...

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: It was from the same place.

Q: How many people do you have to talk with every day?

A: Loads. Sometimes too many, sometimes not enough.

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: The greatest thrill is getting things organised and not having any problems with deliveries.

Q: What part of your job do you dislike the most?

PRSAS (PERSONAL RETIREMENT SAVINGS ACCOUNTS) Q – I am married, 43 with two children and no pension. I was told employers have to provide a facility for employees to contribute to a pension, a PRSA. Can you advise me, as I don’t fancy having to live on € 230.30 per week when I am 68? Gerry - Ranelagh

Graham Costigan, general manager at Room To Room

trade, the price is fair as there is no middle man.

“We stock most of the floor items and have a wide range of customised furniture.

Why not slip by if you’re in the market?”

According to Graham, Room To Room don’t mark up prices to enable them to mark down in a fake sale.

The company is keen to promote its core belief of providing the customer with an excellent level of service and quality at

a fair price.

Room To Room carries stocks of leather, bedroom, dining and occasional furniture, with most of these items available for immediate delivery.

Added to the its extensive range of custom-made fabric suites, the company believes it has something to suit every taste and every pocket.

Customers can find all of the company’s details at www.roomtoroom.ie

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

A: I wanted to be a footballer.

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS

A: Doing the accounts – boring.

Q: What air carrier do you use when going on holidays?

A: Generally Aer Lingus or Ryanair, whichever is best value.

Q: What car do you drive?

A: I drive an old Audi.

Q: Can you swim?

A: I can, and try to, as much as possible.

Q: Would you ever bungee jump?

A: Nope; I don’t like heights.

Q: Do you play any sport?

A: I play golf.

Q: What is your favourite food and drink?

A: My favourite food is stew; my favourite drink is coffee.

Q: Who would you like to have dinner with – Brian O’Driscoll or Brian Cowen?

A: Brian Cowen. I’d love to

Q: Where is your favourite holiday destination?

A: Portugal.

give him a slap up the side of the head.

Q: Have you ever met Brian Cowen?

A: Nope.

Q: How many times a week do you go to the ‘hole in the wall’?

A: Way too often.

Q: What other job in the whole world would you really like to have?

A: A professional golfer;

Q: How many times each year do you shop for clothes?

A: As seldom as possible. I

otherwise, I’m very happy with my work.

don’t like shopping.

Q: What is the name of your favourite shop?

A: Room to Room, of course!

But, really, it’s Macy’s in New York.

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: About 15, I think.

Q: When do you wish to retire?

A: As soon as I have the means to do so, comfortably.

A - There are currently over 420,000 Irish citizens over the age of 65 and, by the year 2050, there will be 1.8million citizens over this age - 767,300 by 2026, meaning that 16 years from now, more than 16% of the population will be in retirement. Put another way, in 2010 there were six workers for every retired person in the state.

By 2051, there will only be two workers for every retired person. Another fact is that half of the current earning population of Ireland does not have a pension, having to solely rely on the State Pension when they retire.

As you know, that retirement age is also moving to age 68 over the coming years. So, you are quite right to be concerned, as we need to address our retirement planning and save for the future now.

PRSAs – Personal Retirement Savings Accounts - were introduced September 2003 forcing ALL employers to set up a debit system to allow employees to contribute to a pension plan if there was not one already in place. While they do NOT have to contribute to their employees’ pensions, at least not yet, they will do in 2014. They MUST nominate an insurance company now to allow these pension payments or direct debits to be made by their employees. Failure to do so can result in a fine to the employer of between € 1,500 and € 12,700 !

You should, therefore, approach your company and ask if they have nominated a insurance company and set up such a scheme. You can, of course, also take the initiative yourself and open your own PRSA with any insurance company directly. The idea behind PRSAs was to make them affordable and portable for everyone. There is a maximum annual management charge of 1%, together with a maximum contribution charge of 5%.

Needless to say, there are a number of rules, regulations, terms and conditions and therefore you should seek professional, authorised and independent advice on same.

WE HAVE 146,000* READERS EACH WEEK

*based on standard industry measurements

Q: What will you do then?

A: I haven’t got a clue. I will read books and take it easy for a while, and just spend some time smelling the flowers – I don’t get a chance now.

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS CALL 60 10 240

22 GAZETTE 5 May 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Try-mendous travel offer with Stena Line for Heineken Cup Final RUGBY fans can travel from only €44* per person by car for the Heineken Cup Final. STENA Line has a special offer from only €44* per person for rugby fans travelling by car (with four passengers) to the Heineken Cup Final in the Millennium Stadium in Wales on Saturday, May 21, which kicks off at 5pm.

Fans can travel by Superferry from Rosslare Port on Friday, May 20, at 21:15, or on Saturday, May 21, at 09:00 and return from Fishguard on Sunday, May 22, at 02:45 hours, arriving into Rosslare Harbour at 06.15.

For more information, or to book, log on to www.stenaline.ie, call 01 204 7777 or visit your local Stena Line office or travel agent. *Terms & conditions apply. Subject to availability. Fare does not include match ticket and is based on a car plus 4 people travelling.

Hop to the great cities of Las Vegas and San Francisco CHECK out two of the USA’s coolest hotspots with the latest twin city offer from GoHop.ie.

Soak up the hip vibe of San Francisco and enjoy its many fine restaurants and cultural highlights and then throw yourself into all of the excitement and buzz that’s on offer in Las Vegas.

Stay seven nights from €809 per person sharing Package includes: Return flights from Dublin to San Francisco, three nights accommodation in your choice of three-star hotel, four nights in your choice of three-star hotel in Las Vegas on room-only basis and airline taxes and charges.

Don’t miss out on this unbeatable twin city offer to San Francisco and Las Vegas, book with Gohop, visit www.GoHop.ie or call (01) 2412303.

A bit of windsurfing in Antrim WINDSURFING Week, which is taking place across Northern Ireland until May 8, provides enthusiasts with the perfect opportunity to enjoy a spring break in the surfing hub of Portrush, Co Antrim.

Co Antrim’s North Coast is dotted with surfing schools that offer lessons to all ages and abilities. Visitors and wannabe surfers can turn their trip into a short stay by availing of the Northern Ireland Tourist Board’s (NITB) special accommodation offer of two nights’ accommodation with breakfast at the Ramada in Portrush from only £95pps (subject to availability). The beautiful seaside town is a favourite with tourists due to its stunning scenery and fantastic entertainment venues.

For further information contact the Northern Ireland Tourist Board on callsave 1850 230 230, click on www.discovernorthernireland.com or visit the Tourist Information Centre, Suffolk Street, Dublin 2 to avail of its free advice and booking service.

A magical place for those vital first steps DAWN LOVE-LATIMER

ALTHOUGH the chance to review one of Ireland’s best-known hotels is something I would normally jump at, the idea of driving to Kerry with a 10-month-old baby made both me and my husband, Dylan, think twice, actually more than twice to be honest.

But throwing caution to the wind, on a sunny April day we loaded up our old estate and the three of us headed for the Parknasilla Resort and Spa in Kerry.

In the end, we’d nothing to worry about. We decided to stop in Adare for lunch, and the new motor way meant we zipped down in no time at all. It was like the scene in Meet the Fockers, when all the traffic lights go green, because Harry ended up sleeping most of the way to Adare and again until we reached Kerry.

Okay, getting from Killarney to Kenmare proved a little tricky, as Harry left both me and Dylan in no doubt that he’d had enough, but we got there in the end and the view when you pull up to the front of Parknasilla Resort and Spa is one of the most spectacular I have ever seen.

Perched majestically

overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this historic Victorian building conjures up images of the sumptuous hotels featured in Miss Marple and Poirot, and you can understand why both Charles de Gaulle and Princess Grace of Monaco were fans. There is a timeless quality about the hotel, although it now boasts a state-of-the-art spa and a new wing.

I think Irish artist Patrick Scott summed it up best, when, recalling the holidays he spent there with his family in the 1930s, he said: “I remember as a child being very impressed by the grandeur of it, and the locations, of course.

But it did seem to be the kind of hotel that people got very fond of and kept going there.”

To be honest, nothing has really changed, and that’s what I loved about it. Many of the people I met on our stay at Parknasilla are regulars, and many of them are families. It’s set amidst 500 acres, and, with a massive swimming pool, rock pools and walking trails, it is sheer kiddie heaven.

We’ve been to a few cafes and restaurants before where it’s made pretty clear that children aren’t particularly welcome, but, in spite of

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‘Our little bundle of joy took his first solo steps, a family memory that we will treasure, and we hope to have many more of them at this Kerry gem’

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the beautiful reception rooms in the hotel, never once were we made feel like this.

In fact, Harry got so attached to some of the hotel’s staff that on the last day, as we said our goodbyes, he leaped into the arms of John from the Pygmalion.

Other staff members,

like PJ, are also parents, in fact he is a dad of twins – so we always felt we were in an easygoing atmosphere and there was never a problem if we needed some food heated.

We stayed in one of the hotel’s new suites, and there is oodles of room for a family. One of my pet hates is poor bed linen, but

there were no fears here.

The beds are massive with really comfy mattresses and the bed linen is topquality cotton.

The bathroom was gorgeous, too, and I’m a total sucker for nice beauty products, so the Elemis ones that Parknasilla uses went down a treat.

Which brings me to the

5 May 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 23

R1

TravelBriefs

Four-star holidays deals from €53 per day all-inclusive, from Panorama Holidays

Dawn with her son Harry, left, taking his first few solo steps. A lone Drascombe Lugger, above, drifts by the surroundings of Parknasilla

SPECIAL OFFERS THE Parknasilla is currently offering guests a twonight bed and breakfast and one evening meal deal from just €159 per person sharing, or book three nights bed and breakfast and two evening meals from just €229 per person sharing.

Bookings must be made before May 31 and the stay must take place before June 30, 2011.

To book visit www.parknasillahotel.ie or telephone 064 667 5600.

next part of the hotel, the spa – a definite must. I had a Hot Stone Massage. Now, I’m a big fan of facials and massages but I’ve never had a Hot Stone one and I really wasn’t sure if I would chill out as I heard the rustle of stones at the beginning. Chill out I did, so much so that

Dylan told me I should have a massage like that more often. He was joking, of course – at least, I like to think so.

In fact, I chilled out so much I fell asleep and the therapist had to wake me when she had finished.

Most nights we ate in the Doolittle Bar, which has an extensive menu

of really wholesome food and yummy desserts – definitely try the Sticky Toffee Pudding.

The buffet breakfasts were a real treat. Set in the Pygmalion restaurant, this is a really stunning and historic room with ocean views, and on our last night we decided to get a bit dolled up and

eat there.

Head chef is Peter Brennan, who has worked in some of London and Dublin’s top eateries, and his food is pretty spectacular. I have to say I would travel to Parknasilla alone for one of his dinners. All ingredients are locally sourced, including the freshly

caught fish, local farm vegetables and meat.

On a personal note, our little bundle of joy took his first solo steps in Parknasilla, a family memory that we will treasure and we hope to have many more of them at this Kerry gem that is run the way hotels used to, and should be.

“ALL-INCLUSIVE” is very much the buzz word among cost-conscious sunseekers this year, with tour operators seeing a strong rise in holidaymakers opting for packages, which include meals, drinks and entertainment in the price. Panorama has just released a large selection of all-inclusive deals for the month of May, with prices as low as €375 per week for four-star accommodation in Crete.

The offers cover three- and four-star properties in 12 destinations spread across Turkey, Greece, Portugal and Spain, and include all meals, snacks, non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks, evening entertainment and use of hotel facilities. The four-star Gouves Park in Crete is on offer for just €375 per person sharing for May 6 departure, and is ideal for families, with nightly entertainment and a kids’ club, with a day-time activity programme.

The Algarve remains a favourite with Irish holidaymakers, and Panorama has a number of all-inclusive deals in the area, with the four-star Delfim Hotel in Alvor available from May for €635, and the Dom Pedro Golf resort in Vilamoura for €756 on May 15.

The Villa Marina Club in Salou, on the Costa Dorada in Spain, offers terrific value in May, from €415, departing May 6 or 15, while Fuengirola, on the Costa del Sol, can be enjoyed for €499 (Gardenia Park). Turkey is rightly popular for its value, and Panorama has a choice of allinclusive destinations in May, with the four-star Delta Beach Resort in Yalikavak from €479, the Bathian Hotel in Kusadasi from €449 and the Piril Hotel in Cesme from €539.

Menorca, from €449, Majorca from €489, Fuerteventura from €549, Lanzarote from €545, Tenerife from €635 and Zakynthos from €619, complete the special May offers. All prices are per person, based on two sharing and include taxes and charges.

“The prospect of accommodation, meals, snacks, drinks and entertainment for as little as €53 a day must be very appealing for families struggling with the cost of living here in Ireland,” says Brian Nevin of Panorama Holidays.

To book, and for more details on any of the discounts on offer, call 0818 20 20 20, log on to www.panoramaholidays.ie or visit your nearest travel agent.

24 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5 May 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT 1

GoingOUT GoingOUT PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Howard Marks: An Audience With Mr Nice Howard Marks is a writer, creator, contributor, storyteller, comedian, Oxford graduate, philosopher, teacher, stoner, singer, actor, DJ, social commentator, revolutionary and an all-round Nice guy. A softly spoken man, he has engaged audiences from Kilkenny to Kathmandu with his fascinating lifestyle and great anecdotal tales that has seen him driven by adrenaline and fuelled by emotion for a right and just society.

May 8 at 7:30. Tickets €19/€21.

SEAMUS ENNIS CULTURAL CENTRE 01 802 0898 Majorstuen Breakneck polkas with daring runs, easy-going lullabies with blue notes, groovy reinlenders and wickedly wonderful waltzes. This is what you may expect from a musical experience with the fiddle and cello collective Majorstuen. Majorstuen has somehow come to signify the revival of Norwegian traditional music with a hugely dynamic and forward-looking musical expression.

Already with its 2003 debut album this five-strong fiddle ensemble made it clear that things were changing in the sphere of Norwegian folk.

May 7 at 8:30pm. Admission: €16.

THE HELIX 01 700 7000

Priest (Paul Bettany) knows that his kidnapped niece is somewhere out there in the wasteland. The warrior has to find her, soon, before her vampire kidnappers turn her into one of them. Meanwhile, the Church has sent agents to find and stop him – but why?

Psychic Medium Tony Stockwell Psychic Tony Stockwell has been working for some 20 years, constantly striving to push the boundaries of his communication. In that time he has had umpteen television programmes and has taught at the most respected schools for mediumistic development. Legions of people have witnessed his unique gifts and can testify to what he does as truly amazing.

May 6 at 8pm. Tickets: €30.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 The Pajama Game The story deals with labour troubles in a pyjama factory, where worker demands for a seven-and-a-half cents raise are going unheeded. In the midst of this ordeal, love blossoms between Babe, the grievance committee head, and Sid, the new factory superintendent.

Until May 7. Admission: €18/€15

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Pineapple Pineapple is a tough and tender drama about love and survival. Calipo presents the world premiere of Pineapple, the new play from acclaimed playwright Phillip McMahon (Danny and Chantelle, All over Town, Alice In Funderland).

May 5 - 6 at 8pm. Tickets: €15/€12 conc / €10 Groups.

Vladimir and Classical Twist Vladimir Jablokov is a young violin virtuoso from Bratislava, Slovakia. He arrived in Ireland in 2004 and formed the Slovak Festival Quartet with some friends.

May 7 at 8pm. Tickets: €18 / €16 concession.

CIVIC THEATRE 01 4627477 Somewhere Under The Rainbow Starring Sharon Sexton as Liza Minnelli. Beneath the surface of sequins, feathers and razzle dazzle that is so often associated with Miss Minnelli, lies a truly captivating character, who has lived one of the toughest, most fascinating and remarkable lives in show business! Join Sharon Sexton’s Liza in the intimate setting of her dressing room as she performs pieces from her infamous musical catalogue and shares the secrets, stories and memories that make up a mesmerising career, including the memories of what was undoubtedly the most demanding role she ever played, that of “Judy Garland’s daughter”.

May 6 at 8pm. Admission: €20 and €16 concession.

Bit of an unholy mess Kate’s prayers for an original vampire movie have ... not been answered, with this Matrix-with-bloodsuckers film Q KATE CROWLEY

A READER recently asked me if I liked any film I cover, given a near-constant stream of one-star and two-star reviews streaming out from gleaming Gazette Towers.

Well, Timmy, by golly, I’m glad you asked me that. Of course I like films and cinema, it’s just that Hollywood keeps on making bad, bad films, which then end up trying to sneak into Dublin cinemas in a bid to take your hard-earned Recessionista Roubles. The noive of those guys!

So, rather than trying to tell you about good or interesting films (such as Takashi Miike’s latest, 13 Assassins, which is another well-told tale set in violent, feudal Japan), I sometimes feel it’s my duty to climb up on the roof and start shouting about some of the lame turkeys on the way to

FILM OF THE WEEK: Priest ++ (15A) 87 mins Director: Scott Charles Stewart Starring: Paul Bettany, Christopher Plummer, Karl Urban, Lily Collins, Cam Gigandet, lots of CG beasties

OUR VERDICT: LOOKING around the world, Kate has seen some fresh twists on the vampire theme recently, such as Let The Right One In (Sweden), or Thirst (Korea). Then she gets Priest (Hollywood). Although not totally terrible, its endless style over substance is rather draining and, she says, it has rather too much leather coats, slo-mo and noisy music to make a good impression. Conclusion? It sorta sucks ...

gobble your change.

That, or to sit here at my old Remington, put on my geen eye shade, and tap away in front of the fire.

And, lo, speaking of warnings about bad films, here comes a Priest that many of you probably won’t like so much.

In a futuristic world, following a long-running clash between humans and vampires, which humanity eventually won, a warrior priest (Paul Bettany) lives in obscurity amongst the huddled masses of one of the world’s safe, walled cities,

ruled over with absolute authority by the Church.

The war was won, but the vampires weren’t wiped out, with many of their various, mutated forms prowling around in the post-apocalyptic wastelands beyond the walls of the cities.

When his niece, Lucy (Lily Collins) is grabbed by the vampires, Priest is the only man for the job to go git her, before the gal becomes a ghoul.

Well, almost the only man, as he’s joined by Lucy’s brave boyfriend and an Inevitable Feisty Warrior Woman Sidekick

for his near-suicidal rescue mission.

Not that the Church wants him to leave the city; in fact, Monsignor Orelas (Christopher Plummer) expressly forbids his mission, and even despatches other holy warriors to bring back Priest from the wasteland. Could the Church have its own nefarious secrets, perhaps?

Still, our heroes don’t have Nosferatu go to find the vampires and screaming niece/girlfriend.

However, despite being very skilled at trampling vampires, there’s still just a few of them, and an awful lot of mean vampires to get past – and the meanest of them all is Black Hat (Karl Urban), who may still look pretty human, but is a true beast on the inside.

Priest finds himself not just with a rescue mission to complete, but also has to do something about the terrible truth he

uncovers; something that Black Hat was counting on him uncovering ...

Shlock-horror fans will welcome the sight (and distinctive sound) of Christopher Plummer; a seasoned old ham who adds his reliable B-Movie stamp to the film.

Meanwhile, Bettany continues his apparent bid to usurp Clive Owen as a Grade-A indicator of a Grade-Awful film, with yet another film involving him and some supernatural hi-jinks.

I’m not adverse to vampire films – some readers may recall that I liked the bloodthirsty film, 30 Days of Night, for example – but, I confess that Priest really isn’t anything that special.

Coming across like a cross between Judge Dredd, Firefly and Mad Max, Priest will probably go down well with some, but, for this reviewer, Priest hasn’t a prayer.

Fangs, but no fanks ...

5 May 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 25

Imagine! People actually queueing to buy music!

ADAM MAGUIRE

Jessica Alba, one of the stars of J th the just-released, Little Fockers

Why Alba really loves the Fockers THE third instalment in the highly-popular Fockers series, Meet the Parents – Little Fockers, was recently released on a range of formats, with the DVD and Blu-Ray releases flying off the shelves.

One of the film’s stars, Jessica Alba, shared some of her thoughts on working with the likes of Ben Stiller. Meet the Parents – Little Fockers is available now at a wide range of outlets.

Q: Tell readers about your character ...

A: I play “Andi Garcia” and, yes, that’s a bit of a joke! She’s very bubbly, very outgoing and she never thinks before she speaks.

She says exactly what’s on her mind, and she has that ‘cheerleader’ kind of attitude.

Q: Does that mean you got some really good lines to say?

A: Yes, and I threw in a lot of slang as well, because I thought it would be funny if [Andi] did that, and if there was that sort of generational gap between Ben’s character and her character, that he just had no idea what the hell she was talking about at all!

Q: Is comedy hard to do?

A: Yes, comedy is the hardest thing to do.

Acting in other things, it’s subjective what works. But, with comedy, if you don’t make people laugh, you have screwed up. It’s hard.

Q: You’re working with some great comedians. Is it difficult to keep a straight face sometimes when you’re filming scenes with them?

A: Well, you can laugh at the scene when they’re doing their close-up, but when you are in the scene with a wide shot, you can’t break character. So, my goal every day was to try and get Ben to break character and laugh!

Q: What was it like, doing ‘Little Fockers’?

A: It was the best time ever, it really was, and every day I came home knowing that I’d had a great day at work. It was the kind of film that made me want to act in the first place. I loved it; every day was a blast.

A FUNNY thing happened recently; something that had not happened for quite some time.

People up and down the country queued outside their local music shops, waiting for the doors to open.

The reason was Record Store Day – an international event aimed at drawing crowds into record shops with live music and limited edition releases.

Its success was, no doubt, welcome for the industry, too, as it continues to struggle in a world of digital – and more often than not, illegal – downloads.

If record labels and musicians can take one thing from it, it is that people are still willing to pay for music, assuming there is enough of an incentive for doing so.

Gimmicky However, if they feel this kind of gimmicky event is enough to save an industry in turmoil, they are only fooling themselves.

The reality is that the world has changed. The internet has made it possible to get hold of practically any song, and users do not even have to pay for the pleasure of doing so.

This is a modern-day Pandora’s Box, and all the legal threats, court cases, moral appeals and guilt trips in the world will never undo this shift.

The way people consume music will never go back to the way it was before.

However, these very tactics have characterised the industry’s reaction to illegal downloading, to date, simply because they are the easiest ones available.

Unfortunately for the

record labels, this is not a simple problem with a simple solution.

Rather than waste energy fighting a losing battle in the courts, perhaps it is time for the industry to focus its energies in more productive ways.

Hinderance Individual artists are already leading the way and, as much as it has proven a hindrance, technology can also be used to help this.

There is no one route that will prove successful for all, of course, but, then again, it is a myth to suggest there ever was.

With matters such as Record Store Day and the resurgence in vinyl sales, it is clear that people will spend money on music, as long as they get something in return.

Something tangible, exclusive, personal ...

Whatever the big players decide to do, people will continue to make money from music in the years and decades ahead.

Whether they are a part of that really depends on how they react in the relatively short-term ...

Nintendo 3DS Having led the field with touch-sensitive, and then motion-sensitive, gaming, Nintendo may be on to another winner with this glasses-free 3D handheld.

The original Nintendo DS, which has been on the market in one form or another for many years now, has been a roaring success.

Worldwide sales are touching on 150 million units, and most people have played games, such

as Brain Training and Nintendogs, at least once.

Therefore, a follow-up to the handheld was always going to be hotly anticipated, and under a lot of pressure to perform.

The Nintendo 3DS, it seems, is worth the wait, with its cracking graphics and striking 3D graphics without the need for glasses.

The 3D, along with 3D cameras built-in, opens up a whole new way of playing games that will really capture your imagi-

nation.

The ability to download new titles wirelessly is handy, too, as is the likes of the “Streetpass” feature, which helps you to set up multiplayer games with people nearby.

If there is anything bad

to say, it is that the 3D can strain the eyes a little when used a lot, but it is so easy to adapt it to suit you – or to switch it off – that this is not really going to be a problem.

Expect this to be top of many people’s birthday and Christmas lists for the next year, or more.

The Nintendo 3DS is available from games retailers, with a RRP of €270.

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

GAZETTE

26 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5 May 2011

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5 May 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

SPORT AWARDS: GazetteSport’s April winners are announced: Page 29

CRICKET: NORTH COUNTY CLUB TAKES FIRST STEPS TOWARD INTERNATIONAL FACILITY

Malahide all set to celebrate 150 years ROB HEIGH sport@gazettegroup.com

THE development of cricket in north County Dublin announced in October of last year began to come to fruition when representatives of Cricket Ireland and Fingal County Council were on hand at the turning of the sod on the new international cricket facility at Malahide Cricket Club last week.

Ireland cricket inter-

national John Mooney, Warren Deutrom, the CEO of Cricket Ireland, Mayor of Fingal, Ken Farrell, and Norman Adams, president of Malahide Cricket Club were present at Malahide Demesne as the club took the first tangible step on the road to the development of the club’s grounds, which came on the back of a €450,000 funding boost.

The funds, predomi-

nantly, will go toward the cost of redeveloping and extending the outfield, as well as providing grass banking, which will accomodate the crowds attending matches.

Mayor Farrell said: “Fingal County Council is greatly looking forward to working with Malahide Cricket Club and Cricket Ireland on the development of this facility.

“The sport of cricket has a long association

Jonh Mooney, Warren Deutrom, Mayor Ken Farrell and Norman Adams at the ceremony at Malahide CC

with Fingal with some of the oldest and longest established clubs based in north Dublin and the sport is very popular in the Fingal area. It was therefore fitting that the Cricket Club in Malahide Demesne had been

chosen as the location for Ireland’s new international cricket facility.”

Celebrations The club are in the midst of another celebration at the moment, with their 150th anniversary

celebrations about to get into full swing.

As part of the celebrations, the club are hosting a Gala Dinner Dance on June 11 in the Grand Hotel, Malahide and hope that the wider community of members,

friends and supporters of the club will join in the celebrations and reunite with old friends and team-mates.

For more information on the dinner, contact Howard on 087 419 0148.

28 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5 May 2011

GazetteSport Sport Rugby

FastRugby

COOLMINE RFC: DOUBLE DISAPPOINTMENT FOR TEAMS

Limerick tour a huge success for U-16s COOLMINE RFC’s Under-16s recently undertook a tour of Limerick, which saw them take part in a tour of Thormond Park, as well as play Garryowen after having watched their hosts play Buccaneers in the AIL league game at Dooradoyle.

The U-16s game was an end-to-end thriller that saw both sides in scoring form, in which the hosts prevailed by a final scoreline of 39-24.

Despite the result, Coolmine were in high spirits after the game after putting on what was easily their best performance of the season, contested in high heat and in front of a large home crowd.

Coolmine seek volunteers and donations COOLMINE RFC are hosting a garden fete and funday on Saturday, May 28, and are looking for club members to get on board to help in putting together one of the biggest days of the year as the season comes to an end.

They are looking for volunteers to help with manning the stalls and attractions and help with erecting tents and

organising car parking for visitors on the big day.

Sponsorship is sought as well for raffle prizes, small toys and novelties and bottles for the bottle stall, sweets for the sweet stall and for children’s prizes, as well as cakes, bric-a-brac, toys, books, CDs or DVDs, jams and preserves.

All donations are gratefully received.

If you can help in any way, contact PatAnn at 086 807 6677 or patannw@eircom. net.

Coolmine were unable to bring their league form to bear for just one more game when both the firsts and seconds suffered cup defeats

Trophies denied for ’Mine METRO PLATE S-FINAL Coolmine NUIM Barnhall

5 24

sport@gazettegroup.com

IT WAS A disappointing end to the season for Coolmine’s first and second XVs when both sides were denied the chance to capture the final honours in their respective cup competitions last week.

Despite hard-fought battles, both sides failed to perform to their normal high standards and suffered the consequences.

Coolmine’s first XV took on NUIM Barnhall last Tuesday night at Ashbrook in the Metro Plate semi-final.

They managed to stay in touch with Barnhall for most of the first half

despite losing a man to the sin bin after eight minutes for a high tackle.

The visitors took advantage of having a man extra, and were soon on the scoreboard, running in a try from deep inside their own half.

An intercepted ball after 21 minutes gave them their second try, and NUIM Barnhall made no mistake with the conversion this time, pulling 0-12 ahead.

Coolmine did manage to pull a try back with ten minutes to go, and a missed Barnhall penalty left a seven-point gap between the sides going into the break.

Matters were thrown into the mix when Barnhall lost a man of their

own to the sin bin after the restart, but Coolmine failed to capitalise on the extra man.

Twenty minutes into the half and Barnhall started to pile on the pressure.

A scrum option was taken after a penalty was awarded under the posts.

This resulted in multiple resets, and several more penalties being awarded with Barnhall opting for the scrum each time, hoping for a penalty try.

However, they did manage to eventually push over for their third try of the game.

The conversion was charged down, denying them another two points, but a Coolmine player received another yellow card and, with the sin bin filled with a dark

blue shirt once again, Barnhall pushed ahead further with another score to leave the final score at 5-24 to the visitors.

Byrne Cup It was a tighter affair for Coolmine’s seconds last Wednesday night away to Guinness RFC. The Ashbrook men dominated the first s e ve n m i n u t e s , b u t didn’t manage to come away with any points.

On the other hand, Guinness managed to grab three points from their first visit to the Coolmine half, and snatched another three after 20 minutes as they started to dominate the game.

A high tackle put Coolmine a man down

for 10 minutes, and Guinness ran in a try before the break, going in 11-0 ahead.

Guinness failed to score in the second half and, with Coolmine managing to pull a try back midway through the period, it was backs to the wall for the home side.

Coolmine played their best rugby of the game in the last quarter and ran in another try with six minutes left.

The conversion would have put them a point ahead but it sailed wide of the posts.

This saw a nail-biting end to the game, but Guinness managed to hold out to the final whistle to win the game 11-10 and secure the Byrne Cup victory.

5 May 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 29

in association with

SWIMMING: ARRAY OF TITLES CLAIMED AT NAC

2011 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS APRIL WINNERS IN ASSOCIATION WITH

+ STARof theMONTH

DAVID MALONE THE Paralympic swimming star was announced as the team manager for Ireland’s 2012 London Paralympics campaign last month, a well-deserved accolade and further affirmation of both his place as one of the leading lights in the sport and his ability to develop and nurture new talent in the sport

TEAMof theMONTH + COLAISTE IOSAGAIN

THE southside ladies took on a challenge never attained in Dublin schools’ senior football and brought back the All-Ireland title after a titanic struggle against Holy Rosary College of Galway, showing that the game of ladies’ football in the capital has a great deal of promise for the future.

APRIL saw a great deal of sporting achievement in Dublin, and the early weeks of May look set to do the same, with the capital’s footballers, hurlers and ladies footballers all chasing league titles, and other titles being decided in all manner of sports.

But an All-Ireland crown has a special cachet, especially when it is the first one to be claimed in Dublin since the competition began, and Colaiste Iosagain must be hailed for their success.

When one of the greats in a sport received an accolade that recognises his capacity to rise beyond any perceived limitations and inspire

those he coaches to the same level of achievement, that cannot be ignored.

David Malone showed his ability to shine in the pool at international level for many years, and now is set to bring a new generation of swimmers to Paralympic glory in 2011.

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

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

Portmarnock’s Karl Burdis was one of the top performers at the National Long-Course championships

National contest sees local winners TROJAN’S Nuala Murphy and Portmarnock’s Karl Burdis were two of the bigger local winners at last weekend’s National Long-Course swimming championships, held in the National Aquatic Centre in Abbotstown.

The formerwas involved in a series of high-profile tussles with rising star Sycerika McMahon and fellow high performance swimmer, Niamh O’Sullivan.

But it was in Friday’s 1500m freestyle final that she achieved her big success, crushing her rivals by over a minute as she finished in a time of 17:19:13, well clear of Breifne’s

Cliodhna Delaney and Comans’ Sarah Kelly.

As she dropped down the distances, the quality of the fields became more intense, none more so on day three when Murphy contested the 400m freestyle race.

Murphy was well in contention with McMahon and O’Sullivan But, at the half-way mark, Murphy who is returning from an injury this year, dropped behind leaving McMahon and O’Sullivan to dominate the race.

The two rivals made an outstanding effort, and turned at the last wall within four hundredths of

a second of each other.

O’Sullivan dug in deep, but McMahon powered through on the last 25m in an impressive home, straight spurt to touch the wall ahead of the Kerry native in 4min.17.39 – just over a second faster than O’Sullivan (4min 18.17).

Prowess Burdis, meanwhile, showed his prowess in the backstroke field as he clocked 2:04:57 to win the men’s 200m race ahead of Niall Wynn as he continues his build-up for a second World University Games bid in China.

The Portmarnock man is currently studying at

DCU after a couple of high-quality seasons in the US at the University of Minnesota.

Aer Lingus were another club to prosper, picking up a number of medals despite the absence of World Senior Champiosnhips qualifier, Barry Murphy.

ConorTurner, a qualifier for the European Juniors in Belgrade, was the silver medallist in the 1500m freestle, finishing just off the pace set by Leander’s Conor Donnelly, while club-mate Andrew Meegan matched that feat in the 100m butterfly and also grabbed bronze in the 400m freestyle.

NAC to host more Olympic champions THE Irish Water Polo Association and Swim Ireland have announced that the triple Olympic water-polo champions, Hungary, are coming to Ireland in June.

The National Aquatic Centre secured the high-profile booking when the British and Hungarian waterpolo teams decided to come to Dublin for training and international fixtures, Minister for Transport, Tourism & Sport Leo Varadkar announced last week.

This is the latest in a number of

high-profile link-ups with international competitors for the NAC, as it is already booked to host the USA Synchronised Swim Team for up to six weeks in advance of the London Olympics. It will also host the British Paralympic Swim squad for a training camp later this year.

International The Hungarian and British men’s waterpolo senior squads will use the National Aquatic Centre for a training camp

and two international matches between June 5 and 8, in co-operation with the Irish Waterpolo Association and Swim Ireland.

Minister Varadkar said: “It’s a great boost for waterpolo in Ireland to attract athletes of this calibre. The 22-man Hungarian senior squad has more than 40 Olympic Gold Medals [between them]. I would like to congratulate the National Aquatic Centre, the Irish Waterpolo Association and Swim Ireland for attracting these world-class athletes.”

30 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5 May 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

Brogan’s all heart: Launches Irish Heart appeal DUBLIN and St Oliver Plunkett’s senior footballer Alan Brogan was first in line to buy a happy heart to launch the Irish Heart Foundation’s Happy Heart Weekend appeal, which runs from May 12 to 14, in Lidl’s Marlay Grange store last week. The GAA star was joined by store manager Pawel Kopec and Happy Heart Weekend coordinator Aideen Lynch as they urged the people of Dublin to make sure their hearts are in the right place and buy a happy heart for €2 this May. See happyheartweekend.ie.

Celtic coaches’ club opens to acclaim

NDSL U-8: CASTLEKNOCK REPEAT VICTORY OVER NEIGHBOURS

CASTLEKNOCK Celtic’s coaches’ club kicked off its first session recently at Porterstown Park, where over 30 of the club’s coaches attended.

The warm-up was given by Castleknock’s own Brian Kennedy and the other two sections were coached by Ger Coughlan (Coerver Coaching) and Mitch Whitty (ex Chelsea and Technical Director of the NDSL).

The sessions were very informative and the emphasis was on improving technique, and a key element was the coaches’ insistence that a ball be used at all times.

FAI Fives set Dunboyne club to kick off next holding open weekend day this week THE FAI Fives’ leagues will be commencing at Coolmine RFC on May 13, and the organisers are calling on teams to register immediately in order to compete.

Teams will comprise eight players each with entry costing €450 per team for the 10-week programme.

The inaugural tournament, starting from May 13, will see teams compete for the opportunity to play in the Aviva Stadium in August.

Teams are invited to sign up as soon as possible on www.5s. ie, or by calling 0818 501555.

DUNBOYNE Tennis Club are set to hold their open day this week, and they are calling on the local community to come along and support the club on Sunday, May 8 from 2 to 6pm.

The open day is for the whole family and is open to all players, irrespective of age or ability.

There will be matches arranges for all levels, exhibition matches, a dedicated juniors and teens’ court, as well as fun events for the younger members of the family.

For more information, see www.dunboynetennis.com.

David Olaiya, right, was on target for Castleknock Celtic to ensure another victory over Dunshaughlin

Celtic keep up winning ways NDSL U-8 DIVISION Dunshaughlin 1 Castleknock Celtic 2 sport@gazettegroup.com

D U N S H AU GH L I N arrived at Porterstown with a belief that following a close game against Celtic in March, that they had the ability to match the opposition but it was the Celts who emerged victorious with a solid display.

The game started at pace, although both defences were proving dominant. As the half wore on, Castleknock began to dominate possession — Alex San Emetrio and Lloyd Turner on the left were showing

a good understanding while Leigh Reilly looked to release John Kane.

Mikey Rogers was busy up front and found time to create two good opportunities – one a high shot that beat the goalkeeper but also the crossbar, and on the other occasion, he was foiled by some brave goalkeeping from the Dunshaughlin stopper.

The crowd sensed a goal and it came just before half-time in the most unexpected way.

Dunshaughlin played the ball out but the ever alert Leigh Reilly pressurised the defender into a mistake and struck the ball from outside the box with pace, power and

accuracy into the bottom corner.

However, as they had shown in previous games, Dunshaughlin have belief and reacted swiftly. On their next attack, the Dunshaughlin midfielder struck a shot that was blocked but their no 10 reacted sharply to hit a thunderous shot into the net to leave the sides level at half time.

It was clear that Castleknock were seeking a win and they began the half meaning business.

Two corners were won in quick succession with Reilly just failing to score from a good Hughes delivery.

Chances continued

with Hughes and Kane coming close.

However, Castleknock needed to be careful as they searched for a goal.

On one occasion, Dunshaughlin were through on goal but Rogers got back to make a great clearance.

With legs tiring David Olaiya was re-introduced for the hard working Kane with Hughes taking over on the right side of midfield.

Within minutes Castleknock had scored. Hughes received the ball from the defence and went on one of his runs down the wing, beating two in the process, before hitting a cross to the wait-

ing David Olaiya, who having taken up a great position six yards out, connected with the deftest of touches to score a fine goal.

Castleknock looked for a third and following an exchange of five passes between the two, Kane released the ball to Hughes who just failed to get his shot on target.

As has been the pattern with games against Dunshaughlin, they finished the stronger as they sought an equaliser.

In the dying minutes San Emetreio was on hand to make two fine saves ensuring a hard fought victory for Castleknock.

5 May 2011 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 31

in association with

SFC ROUND 1: LOCAL SIDES SEE MIXED FORTUNES

CLUB NOTICEBOARD CASTLEKNOCK CONGRATULATIONS to Dublin hurlers

Don’t leave it until the last minute to

on their historic League final victory

have your name etched in the roots

over Kilkenny.

of Somerton! Personally tagged

A great tribute to all Dublin hurling

native Irish trees only €20 from club

people and great credit to all hurl-

mentors. These trees will be planted

ing mentors in the county and in the

around the new grounds in Somer-

club.

ton and are a great idea for a gift for

Well done to our feile footballers who did the club proud over the weekend.

The club has launched a Bond Scheme, where club members and

friends and family.

Congratulations to Brian and Lydia Clarke who won the club lotto of €6,600 last week. This week’s lotto is €2,000, with the draw in Myo’s.

friends will take out 10-year bonds

Castleknock nursery for four- to

and loan the club the value of the

seven-year-olds takes place at CCC

bond at zero interest.

on Saturdays from 10 to 11.30am.

All bonds are repayable after the 10 years. A positive response is

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

required to complete the develop-

New players are always welcome at

ment of Somerton and ensure all our

all ages and levels. Just ring our club

members enjoy top-class facilities

coach Brendan on 085 1329397 for

for many years to come.

training and mentors details.

St Oliver Plunkett’s Alan Brogan was one of the architects of their comeback win against St Vincent’s

SFC opening week sees thrilling ties DUBLIN SFC ROUND 1 St Oliver Plunkett’s 2-10 St Vincent’s 1-11 STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@gazettegroup.com

ST OLIVER Plunkett’s/ ER sprung a stunning late fightback, with Conor Daly and Jason Sherlock netting goals, to put their struggling league form to one side, despite fielding an under-strength side at Parnell Park last Saturday.

Ross McConnell and Bernard Brogan we r e t h e m a r q u e e name absentees from the panel, while Eoin Somer ville was also out for this high-profile contest, which was a repeat of the 2007 league final.

And it looked like Vinnies, who fielded Eamon Fennell in SFC colours for his new club for the first time, would take advantage of Plunkett’s absences, when they led by six points with the clock ticking ever closer to the hour

mark and the game looking well in the bag at that stage.

Shane Dunne brought them a shade closer with three minutes to go before the fireworks began in earnest.

Alan Brogan’s quickthinking saw an opening to find Sherlock, and Jayo moved the ball on to Daly to bang home.

Paul Brogan drew an excellent save from Michael Savage in the Vincent’s goal soon after, leaving the game on a knife-edge, but the rampant comeback was complete in the second minute of extra-time.

Again, Daly played his part, a second-half substitute whose form was vital to the piece.

He went down the right, fed Alan Brogan, who was the architect again, shifting the ball into the danger zone where Sherlock again spotted the space and hit high into the rigging.

Dunne knocked over

his second point of the afternoon for added insurance, and a second-round berth was assured for the Navan Road men.

Early on, Mossy Quinn’s boot accounted for five of the Vincent’s scores, while Diarmuid Connolly’s goal, with a quarter of an hour remaining, seemed to have all but wrapped up the tie.

Fennell scored two points from deep areas, but those scores proved to be not enough, as Vincent’s did not count on the late Plunkett’s show.

St Brigid’s St Oliver Plunkett’s near-neighbours, St Brigid’s, meanwhile, were left undone by something of a shock results against the emerging Templeogue Synge Street footballers.

St Brigid’s fell 0-13 to 0-12 at the Iveagh Grounds, giving up a two-point lead in the

closing stages when Fergal O’Gara – younger brother of injured Dubs’ star, Eoghan – weighed in with three great scores after he was sprung from the subs’ bench.

The result was one of a couple of shocks in the senior championship, but the nature of the weekend’s action saw many scratching their heads and Paddy Power possibly counting the cost of generous odds overturned.

Five-to-one underdogs, St Peregrine’s, knocked out Lucan Sarsfields in emphatic fashion, with a six-point win in Russell Park, built on Robbie McCarthy’s nine-point haul.

Eve n b i g g e r o d d s were against St Anne’s, but they still managed to overcome St Jude’s.

With St Mar y’s thrown out and St Vincent’s falling to St Oliver Plunketts/ER, it means quite a few big names could tumble before the sudden-death rounds.

ST BRIGID’S WHAT a day in Croke Park. Congratu-

11am.

lations to Daire and Alan on their fan-

Best of luck to Elaine, Ailish, Noelle,

tastic achievement. It was a special

Sorcha and Noelle this Saturday as

day for everyone in Dublin who has

Dublin contest the NFL Division 2 final

put in tremendous work over the past

in Parnell Park. Best of luck to Paul

20 years.

Winters and the Dublin minor hurlers

Members can now pay their membership online at www.stbrigidsgaa. com.

Senior 2 footballers had a good win

vs Wexford this Saturday.

U16B footballers in replay this Thursday at 7pm vs Lucan in Russell Park.

over Good Counsel while the seniors

Major annual fundraising club golf

were edged out by TSS. The seniors

classic takes place on Friday, May 27

face St Mark’s on Friday at 7pm in

in Royal Tara; to enter a team, contact

O’Toole Park.

Phil Kelly.

U-13A hurlers had a good win over

The Club History Committee will

Castleknock. Minor hurlers drew with

meet on May 9 at 8pm; anyone who

David’s. Junior B footballers beat St

would like to be part of the committee,

Vincent’s in league.

please do not hesitate and come down

Junior A and Bs in league action on Sunday: Junior A vs Good Counsel at 11am in Russell; Junior B vs Starlights in Collinstown Lane at 11am. Minor hurlers face Finbarrs on Sunday at

on the evening.

Club Lotto takes place in Myo’s on Friday with a jackpot of €12,800.

Junior hurlers’ fundraising Trad/ Ballad Night on May 20.

ST PEREGRINE’S VOTE for our very own unsung hero

day. Junior B play Lucan on Thurs-

Albert ‘’Albie’’ Pierson; as we all

day and Erin’s Isle away on Sunday,

know, Albert is a hero among the

and Junior B play Barrog away this

club and needs our votes.

Thursday and home to Man O War on

Please long onto www.unsunghero. com/ourheroes.

Brilliant win for our senior footballers last Friday evening over

Sunday.

Club lotto was not won; numbers drawn were 1, 18, 21 and 23. Next week’s jackpot is €3,600.

Lucan in SFC, all roads now lead to

Any member not buying lotto tick-

O’Toole Park this Saturday at 6pm

ets visit CNP.ie and support your

for second round against St Anne’s.

club for only €2 a week and is also

Well done to the club’s feile team

available to play on-line using the

on some brilliant performances on Saturday last and indeed had a fantastic day out in Parnell Park last

link on the club website.

Entertainment in clubhouse this Saturday in club from Who’s Eddie.

Monday, well done to all concerned.

Club shop is open on Mondays,

Adult football resumes this week,

Wednesdays and Fridays 6pm to 7pm

Junior A play Cuala at home on Sun-

and on Saturdays 10am to 12pm.

ALL OF YOUR CASTLEKNOCK SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

LAST-GASP: Two goals late on seal memorable Plunkett’s win over Vinnies: P31

MAY 5, 2011

SPORTS AWARDS: April winners revealed: P29

GazetteSPORT

Elaine Kelly, pictured earlier in the league campaign against Waterford, will be hoping to add NFL Division Two glory to their promotion

Local ladies target phase of campaign Jackies aiming to return to NFL Division One as champions as they prepare to face Meath on Saturday STEPHEN FINDLATER castleknocksport@gazettegroup.com

DUBLIN skipper Cliodhna O’Connor is hoping her ladies footballers can follow in the footsteps of their hurling counterparts and claim national league glory.

It may be a far cry from Croke Park as they take on Meath in Parnell Park on Saturday (3.30pm) in the division two title with their primary objective already in the tank as they ultimately seek to retain their All-Ireland senior championship.

St Brigid’s quintet Sorcha Furlong, Colleen Barrett, Noelle Healy, Elaine Kelly and Ailish McKenna will all be involved, and O’Connor says this tie is a shot to nothing in one sense.

“Our first aim this year was to qualify back to division one so we’re delighted to have done that by reaching this final. The first job is ticked off.”

Despite a string of emphatic wins, the side did endure some nervy moments, falling to Cavan in the group stages, setting up a tricky semi-final

against the Breffni county.

But they emerged from that battle, 3-12 to 1-9 victors, to set the final date with lessons learned.

“Even when we won the semi-final, it was still a tough match. We had to reassess after Cavan beat us for the first time. We didn’t perform to the best of our abilities and we knew that after the match. It was probably a reminder that we had to make sure we got everything right, no matter what match we were playing.

“I suppose we had to assess a little our gameplan and our decision-making. When things weren’t working on the pitch, we were slow to change.

“We had to refocus ourselves but all was not lost after we lost to Cavan. We could still qualify for the semi-finals, but we had to concentrate.”

It leaves Dublin in an interesting situation. Last year, they claimed ultimate glory despite being relegated from division one. This time, they will enter the Leinster championship on form but against a lower-tier of competition.

The Naomh Mearnog woman admits it is “hard to know” which approach is better.

“Last year, we had to learn a lot about ourselves very early on. We were making mistakes and it was being shown up straight away.

“This year, we have a different scenario. We’re in a league final; you can take positives from both but you just have to learn from whatever situations you’re presented with and take as much as you can from it.”

Her side has also had to learn a slightly new style as Tommy Brown stepped up to take over from long-serving manager, Gerry McGill.

“There’s been a few changes to the set-up.

Tommy knows what we’ve done the last few years and that’s given us momentum going forward, but also he’s had a few different approaches to what Gerry had.

“Angie McNally has come in and she’s doing a lot of coaching, she’s a new voice which freshens things up. There’s probably a nice balance and continuity.”