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INSIDE: Shopping for love at a special Tesco Singles’ Night P10
Soccer: Phoenix set to face Lucan United in cup Page 32
Celtic’s night: Castleknock celebrate 25 years of soccer Page 28
ALSOINSIDE: GALLERY ........................ 2 BUSINESS .................... 19 MOTORS ....................... 20 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26
March 8, 2012
REFERENDUM: Making their case
for a Yes or No treaty vote Page 8
Growing support to keep ice rink facility I LAURA WEBB
SUPPORT for a local ice skating rink in Castleknock is mounting, with local politicians urging Fingal County Council to extend planning permission for the facility, after it was issued a notice to cease trading within a month. Castleknock Ice Rink was set up under exempt development, which is used for temporary recreational facilities,
such as a carnival or circus, but only allows it to run for a 30-day period. According to council officials, the planning department had not yet received an application for its retention, and an enforcement notice to close within one month was issued. However, local politicians have voiced their support for the rink and would like to see it remain open. Full Story on Page 2
Green-ing away: Sharing fun at a hospice fundraising night ENTERTAINER Syl Fox’s banter certainly hit all the right notes with singer, Rebecca Storm, when they met at the recent Celebration of Life Variety Gala Concert, which was staged at The Helix in aid of St Francis Hospice.
The pair were joined by a host of other local and national entertainers, while Brendan Gleeson, and his sons, added their skills to a night of superb entertainment for the popular cause. See Gallery on Page 9
2 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 8 March 2012
PLANNING Politicians urge council to extend permission to local business
Support is building for local ice rink I LAURA WEBB
SUPPORT for a local ice skating rink in Castleknock is mounting, with local politicians urging Fingal County Council to extend planning permission after the facility was issued a notice to cease trading within a month. Castleknock Ice Rink was set up in December under exempt development. This is kind of development is used for temporary recreational facilities, such as a carnival or circus, which allows it to run for a
30-day period. According to council officials, this time period ended at the end of January, and because the planning department had not yet received an application for its retention an enforcement notice to close within one month was issued. However, local politicians have voiced their support for the rink and would like to see it remain open. Fianna Fail councillor David McGuinness said the priority is “getting proper planning for it” but because there is “an appetite
locally for it” maybe the council could engage in a process to bring it under proper planning. “There isn’t anything like this around. There is a lot of buzz about it in schools, and I was approached by a local ice hockey team that have started up at this facility and are hoping to continue there. “We need to be a bit more proactive in terms of legitimising it and keeping it in place because there is an appetite for it,” Cllr McGuinness said. The local councillors were discussing the matter at a recent
area committee meeting, and the only negative issue about the ice rink was noise from the generator, which Castleknock councillor Eithne Loftus (FG) said was “irritating” people living close by. Mulhuddart councillor Ruth Coppinger (SP) agreed with Cllr McGuinness, saying more recreational facilities are needed in the area for “young and old people”. “If there is an issue with noise that needs to be looked at; [but] I do think we would like to see this type of facil-
ity, which is common to see in other countries, here. We need outlets for young people because we have one of the youngest populations in the country,” Cllr Coppinger said. Castleknock councillor Mags Murray (FF) said she never saw so much excitement about something when the icerink first came. “The beauty of it was it was much cheaper than the pop-up ones highly advertised over Christmas. People playing ice hockey are dying to extend the period of operation. It would be lovely
to think we could do something to extend for, say, the winter months. If noise is the only issue, I wonder if there is any thing we can do to reduce it. I would support it.” A council spokesman said he noted the support for the facility as a benefit to the community and would look at requirements of planning development act for the next meeting to see about its extension. At the time of going to print, the owners of the ice rink were not available for comment.
INTERVIEW: MARKING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY
Exhilarating and exciting – Joan I LAURA WEBB
news@gazettegroup.com
INTERNATIONAL Women’s Day takes place this week, with events around the globe inspiring and celebrating their achievements and one woman marking the occasion is local politician Joan Burton. She topped the poll for Dublin West in the General Election on February 25, 2011, and was the first politician to be elected to the 31st Dail. The Gazette caught up with the Dublin West TD and Minister for Social Protection in her constituency to talk about her first year in office, squash rumours on a leadership push in her party, and how she would like to see more women in government. The last year for Burton as Minister for Social Protection has been “very
exciting, exhilarating and demanding”. “It’s a huge responsibility, particularly for the 438,000 people who are on the Live Register and finding ways of helping them get back to education, work and retrain. It is an enormous privilege to have responsibility for that, but it is also a huge challenge,” she said. A critical policy for the Minister at the moment is “jobs, jobs, jobs” and, through the past year she has introduced a number of schemes that she hopes will help create jobs, including Jobsbridge and Pathway to Work. “We launched the Jobsbridge programme and, in just nine months, we have met our quota of 5,000 places. I am now looking to expand the scheme; this is a voluntary scheme and we have had 8,000 employers offer internship places, and, in
some cases, people having done the internship have been offered some employment or are getting employment – the feedback is quite positive.” According to Minister Burton, a challenge for her first year was facing a tough first budget, and protecting basic social welfare rates was “really important” to her. Asked about recent warnings that cuts to elderly benefits, like state pension, in Ireland is being considered by the IMF, she said: “I think it is very important that we maintain the income of older retired citizens and I have made that very clear to the IMF at discussions with them shortly after I became Minister. Many of our retired people, social welfare noncontributory old age pension is their income. “There may be peo-
ple who have very high pensions, we see politicians from the previous government retire with extraordinary pensions. If there are to be reforms in relation to pensions, let’s look at the people with very high incomes, like members of the former government – that is where I would start.” As a woman in politics, it’s important to stand your ground and there is no doubt that the Deputy Leader of the Labour Party would eventually want to be Leader, but when asked whether that was sooner rather than later, she was quick to squash rumours she would push for leadership next year. “The leader of the Labour Party is Eamon Gilmore. I am perfectly happy to work with Eamon as Deputy Leader and, as far as I am concerned, Eamon will
The last year for Burton, as Minister for Social Protection, has been “very exciting, exhilarating and demanding”
be leader of the Labour Party for a very long period of time.” Summing up her year she said: “It’s been an interesting year; it’s a huge honour to be asked to be a member of the Cabinet.” However, there is one
thing she would like to see when walking into Cabinet and that is to see more women in government. “I am conscious of the fact that I am one of two Ministers who are women and we are coming into this week, which marks
International Women’s Day and I would be happier if I was, maybe, in a cabinet that was 50/50 women and men, but that might be a little bit down the road,” she added. International Women’s Day is celebrated annually on March 8.
8 March 2012 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 3
TV Local mum impresses judges on Voice of Ireland
New body of work
Claire cruises into next round of competition I LAURA WEBB castleknock@gazettegroup.com
A LOCAL mum of two is showing her kids that anything is possible, as she goes through to the next round of the hit TV show, The Voice of Ireland. Claire O’Loughlin gave a mesmerising performance on Sunday night’s live show. Her mentor, Brian Kennedy, chose 90’s hit, Un-break My Heart, by Toni Braxton, a song well-suited to Claire’s unusual low range. The Castleknock native nailed the performance to win the public’s vote and a place
in the next round. Sunday night’s show saw all of Brian Kennedy’s acts and Bressie’s acts sing for a place in the next stage of the competition. Each mentor had six acts, but only five would go further. The two acts with the fewest votes faced their mentor to chose one act to go forward in the competition. In the Kennedy Camp, it was a nail-biting moment for Claire as she stood with two other acts. She was the last to be saved by the public. In the end, Ryan O’Shaughnessy was
sent home, while Bressie chose Gavin Kenny to leave. Next week’s show will see Sharon Corr and Kian Egan’s teams compete for a chance to stay in the competition. Mentor Bressie compared Claire’s performance to the late Whitney Houston saying: “God rest Whitney’s soul, you could actually take her place – it was that good.” Adding: “There is no woman, ever, that I have heard since Toni Braxton who can sing that song in that register – it’s stunning.” Sharon Corr complimented her outfit, say-
DRAIOCHT
Claire gave a mesmerising performance on Sunday night’s live show
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‘God rest Whitney’s soul, you could actually take her place – it was that good’
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ing she looked like “a goddess”. On her singing ability,
Sharon said: “You did a great job. Incredible tone, it never fails to utterly sur-
prise me no matter how many times I’ve heard it – wonderful.” Help Claire stay in the competition by watching The Voice of Ireland every Sunday at 6.30pm on RTE, then pick up the phone and vote to keep her in.
A NEW exhibition themed, Shore, by artist Cathy Henderson, will be displayed this week at Draiocht Theatre. Born in London, Cathy grew up in Northern Ireland before moving to Paris and then to Dublin to study at NCAD from where she graduated with a Masters of Fine Art in 1993. She has since exhibited in Britain, Ireland, France and Canada. This current body of work was made over the last two or three years all around the Irish coast. “My aim with these pictures is to capture the transience of the coastal view, the sense of shifting skies and the constantly fluctuating mood of weather,” Cathy said. This exhibition is on display from March 12 until June 2 at Ground Floor Gallery in Draiocht Blanchardstown.
4 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 8 March 2012
NATIONAL INITIATIVE Minister announces allocation of €35 million for plan
Replacing rented prefabs with permanent classrooms I LAURA WEBB
castleknock@gazettegroup.com
A NEW initiative to replace rented prefabs with permanent classrooms in schools across the countr y will include two in Dublin 15. Minister for Education Ruairi Quinn, announced plans to allocate €35 mil-
lion for a special initiative that will see old prefabs in schools replaced. Minister for Social Protection Joan Burton said she is “delighted” at the announcement by Minister Quinn that two of the schools in Dublin 15, St Philips the Apostle Junior National School Mountview and St Francis Xavier Junior
National School, in Castleknock, have been given the go-ahead by the Department of Education to replace rented pre-fabs in the schools. Minister Burton said: “At the height of the economic boom, the previous Government had an unfortunate policy of renting pre-fabs for schools.
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‘At the height of the economic boom, the previous Government had an unfortunate policy of renting pre-fabs for schools’
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“For instance, in 2007, 715 new rental contracts were agreed. The result of this policy is that there this is a
legacy of rental pre-fabs in schools around the country.” According to Minister
Burton, the programme for Government contained a commitment to reduce the reliance on rented prefabs in schools and the new initiative will mean savings of €5 million per annum on the rental prefabs in the schools. It will also result in the creation of 700 direct jobs and 140 indirect jobs.
Fantastico: Top prize for Howard
YOUR
A CASTLEKNOCK student is celebrating this week after winning first prize in a Spanish writing competition. Howard Tsang, a student at Castleknock College, won first prize at the Stein Study Abroad Essay Writing competition. The transition year student took the best part of two days to prepare his entry for the competition, writing 200 words in Spanish about his spare time. Headmaster at Castleknock College, Oliver Murphy, said he wrote “a most poetic piece about how he escapes the world of homework and exams and dreams of travelling to Spain”. “At the end of his piece he paraphrases W B Yeats and writes ‘He puesto mis suenos a tus pies, pisa suave por favor’ (I have spread my dreams at your feet, tread softly, please.)” Howard won a two-week scholarship to travel to Spain and attend a course in Spanish sponsored by Stein Study Abroad. Through the educational prize he hopes to learn more about the Spanish language and culture. “It is a well-deserved prize for a hard-working student,” Headmaster Murphy said.
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EDUCATION: PLANNING PERMISSION SOUGHT FOR PROJECTS
Department announces boost for two schools I LAURA WEBB castleknock@gazettegroup.com
TWO schools received a boost this week as the Department of Education announced it would seek planning permission for a new secondary school building and extension to an existing primary school at Porterstown. The Department has applied for planning permission for the longawaited new building for Luttrellstown Community College. The planning application also includes a nine-room extension to the existing Scoil Choilm primary school and a new 16-classroom school at the Porterstown site.
In the planning description, the department seeks to develop a two-storey school building for Luttrellstown Community College, which is currently based in Blanchardstown Village. The building will consist of 20 specialist classrooms, 18 general classrooms, a general purpose hall, a library/resource room, offices and staff areas. Meanwhile, the proposed extension to the existing Scoil Choilm, currently a 16 classroom school, is for nine new rooms comprising one class-base special needs unit, four rooms on the ground-floor and four
rooms to first-floor. Permission for a new 16-classroom school is also being sought, with a view to construct it to the east of the existing Scoil Choilm. This comprises of 16 classrooms and one class-based special needs unit. In keeping with the Fingal Schools Model, a general purpose hall will be built, acting as the new community centre and sports hall, and will be a shared facility for Scoil Choilm and the other new school. Site works to Luttrellstown Community College consist of five new ballcourts, access road with bus turning circle
and set-down areas, four bicycle racks and provision for 36 new car-parking spaces. Site works to Scoil Choilm include new access road, turning circle and set-down at new 16-classroom school, an additional 34 car parking spaces, two bicycle racks and four new ballcourts. The overall site area will be landscaped with grass planted areas and complete with new boundary treatment. Local Fine Gael councillor, Kieran Dennison, said that the news was a boon for local schools. “This is really good news for the Clonsilla and Carpenterstown area. We got a lot of criticism from
other parties when we supported rezoning the land for the school sites. As well as the badly needed schools, the community and sports facilities will be a fantastic asset for the whole area. “The only criticism I would make is that the Department did not get their application in six months ago. If they had the new Luttrellstown Community College might have some chance of opening its doors for next September. As it is temporary prefabs will likely have to be acquired at some €50,000 each to accommodate the new school intake,” Cllr Dennison added.
8 March 2012 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5
HEALTH: HSE UNDER LOCAL PRESSURE TO LOCATE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL HERE
Calls to build in D15, not Mater I LAURA WEBB news@gazettegroup.com
CALLS have been made for the HSE to consider building the National Children’s Hospital on site at Connolly Hospital. Mulhuddart Councillor Mary McCamley (Lab) said there is “no reason” why a proposal to build the Children’s Hospital on the Connolly Hospital site in Dublin 15 “should not go ahead by the Health Service Executive”. The call comes just weeks after An Bord Pleanala refused planning permission for the Children’s Hospital to be built at the Mater Hospital, saying it would constitute over-development of that site. Cllr McCamley believes Connolly Hospital should
now be considered. “On the previous occasion when the bid was made Connolly was refused on a number of grounds, one being that the proposed access road was not completed.
Running “This approach road is now up and running, and adjacent as it is to the M50, to the N3 and to the new N2 link road, will greatly assist travelling to and from the hospital and will facilitate those families travelling from across the country. There would be no need to enter a busy city centre. “It was stated on the previous occasion that there were not enough specialist consultants. Now, because of the upcoming merger with Beaumont Hospital, Con-
nolly Hospital will have 150 consultants between the two campuses with the specialties needed, and there is more than enough land to build. Even a high-rise will pose no problem as there are already buildings towering the skyline, such as the Quinn building and the hotel,” Cllr McCamley said. At the time of going to print, the Cabinet was due to discuss draft terms of reference for an expert review group, headed by chair Dr Frank Dolphin, which will advise the Government on options available for building the proposed National Children’s Hospital. Around €35m has already been spent in preparation for the proposed children’s hospital at the Mater site.
Helping out: Kavanagh’s Pub table quiz raises a total of €2,355 for the D15 Hospice THE LAUREL Lodge and Carpenstown
branch of Fine Gael has raised €2,355 for the St Francis Hospice in Blanchardstown through a table quiz held recently at Kavanagh’s pub, Laurel Lodge. Seen here at the
presentation of the cheque are (l. to r.): Bernadette Gill from Raheny, Cllr Eithne Loftus, Ned Walsh, Fr Dan Joe, Minister Leo Varadkar TD, Cllr Kieran Dennison, Clare Hannigan, Sean Sheils.
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6 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 8 March 2012
LIBRARY
Loads going on in March IRELAND’S biggest public Library has a jampacked schedule of events for March - from exhibitions to book clubs to a society on local history, it has something for everyone to enjoy. This month’s schedule at Blanchardstown Library includes an exhibition – Work by St Bridget’s Photography Group running until March 10. The parent and toddler group meet every Wednesday from 10am to 1pm. Running until March 14 is Europe Direct Exhibition – Irish Successes Abroad – on the main floor in Blanchardstown Library. Storytelling and musical events takes place on March 10 at 3pm in celebration of Seachtain na Gaelige from March 5 until March 17. The local history society Fingal South Heritage Society meet in the Library on the last Saturday of every month from 2pm to 3.30pm. Head down to your local library to find out what’s on or log onto w w w. f i n g a l c o c o . i e / library
EVENT Fingal Student Enterprise Awards 2012
Schools bid to win share of €10,000 I LAURA WEBB castleknock@gazettegroup.com
A RECORD number of school companies from across Fingal will compete for a share of the €10,000 prize fund at this year’s Fingal Student Enterprise Awards. This, the 11th annual final, takes place in the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Blanchardstown, on Friday, March 16, with 18 secondary schools and nine primary schools, comprising 60 companies in total, all competing for an award. “This year’s Fingal Student Enterprise Awards will showcase our largest number of student entrepreneurs yet, highlighting a growing interest in enterprise amongst young people,” said Oisin Geoghegan,
CEO of Fingal County Enterprise Board. “The key objective of the Fingal Student Enterprise programme is to encourage students to learn about the world of business so that they can discover the excitement and dynamism of running an enterprise. We are also welcoming three new secondary schools to the Fingal Student Enterprise programme for the very first time, making the Fingal programme the largest programme in the country this year,” he added. The programme involves nearly 2,000 primary and secondary schools students showcasing their companies. The budding entrepreneurs get an opportunity to research and set-up their own busi-
ness from September to March, with support of business mentors from the local Enter prise Board. A total of ten prize categories will be announced at the ceremony, which will be hosted by RTE 2FM’s Rick O’Shea, with support from Fingal County Council, County Dublin VEC, the Blanchardstown Centre and Xtreme.ie. Winners of the Enterprising School Spirit Award at primary and secondar y level will receive a laptop computer from County Dublin VEC, which is also sponsoring the County Dublin VEC Enterprise Award. The category winners and runnersup will all receive Blanc h a r d s t ow n C e n t r e vouchers, glass trophies and certificates. A prize draw for students and teachers will also take place on March 16, with adventure packages sponsored by Xtreme.ie from Balbriggan.
Jill Groome, Alex Farrell, Ryan Douglas, Noelle Leonard and Conor Carey from St. Joseph’s Rush, finalists in the County Final of the Fingal Student Enterprise Awards 2011 for their project Bright Bands
Pictured at the Fingal County Enterprise Board offices in Swords, launching the 2011/2012 Fingal Student Enterprise Programme was Killian Tol, Oisin Geoghegan, CEO, Fingal County Enterprise Board and Andrew Ennis
The Mayor of Fingal, Cllr Gerry McGuire, will be presenting the senior category prizes this year, which includes an educational trip to Barcelona for the winning students and their teacher. The secondary school winners will go on to represent Fingal at the National Student Enter-
prise Awards in Croke Park on Wednesday, April 18. Last year ’s Senior Category winner from St Fintan’s School (Sutton) and Intermediate category winners from Colaiste Choilm (Swords) went on to win prizes at the National Student Enterprise Awards in April. Participating Primary Schools include St Cro-
nan’s National School Swords, St Oliver Plunkett Malahide, Balbriggan Educate Together, St Catherine’s National School Rush. Secondary Schools i n cl u d e B a l b r i g g a n Community College, Loreto Secondary School Swords, Skerries Community College, Colaiste Choilm, St Fintan’s SS and St Joseph’s Secondary School.
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8 March 2012 CASTLEKNOCK ASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 7
Laurel Lodge Carpenterstown
Minister Leo Varadkar took members of the Castleknock U-11 Boys’ team on a guided tour of Leinster House recently
Local boys visit Dail Eireann A
LARGE group of hurlers and footballers representing Castleknock U-11 Boys’ team, and friends and parents, visited Dail Eireann on Wednesday, February 29, where they were brought on a tour of Leinster House by Minister Leo Varadkar. He told the group of the House’s history, and
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brought them to the Senate and, afterwards, to the Dail Chamber, where they heard a speech by Minister Pat Rabbitte. They then went to the Dail coffee dock for some refreshments, where they presented Minister Varadkar with a caman. Someone should have told them that Leo’s choice of stick is made
from willow, not ash, and is an entirely different shape. However, without reaching for his bat, he knocked them all for six with the great welcome to Leinster House that they experienced. On a serious note – isn’t it a great way for children to see at firsthand the workings of our democracy?
I understand that Lisa Tavey – the Minister’s PA – had a big hand in organising the visit. Cllrs Eithne Loftus and Mags Murray were in attendance and, incidentally, Mags is no stranger to the caman, with a string of camogie medals behind her. Catherine Byrne TD presented each of the
boys with a copy of the 1916 Proclamation. The group were very pleased with their visit, and expressed thanks to all, including Chief Usher, Tom McGrath, for a memorable evening.
With Jim Lacey Phone: 087-2401308 Email: jimlacey@eircom.net
FOOD FESTIVAL
on offer are truly delicious.
INTERNATIONAL DAY: MY TASTE buds are tickling – I have just heard that the Muslim Women Together group are having their annual international food festival in Castleknock College on Saturday, March 10, from 3 to 6pm. This is a great day out for those, like me, who love the exotic taste of delicious Eastern food. Admission is only €10 per adult, and it all goes to two good causes – Carmona Special National School, and Barnados. There will also be henna tattooing, and Arabic music. It is always a good, fun-filled day, and the exotic foods and drinks
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EXHIBITION PHOTOGRAPHY WORKS ON SHOW: THE local St Brigid’s Photo Group are currently exhibiting a very fine selection of their work in Blanchardstown Library. Greg Muldowney, proprietor of Gallery 23 in Coolmine Industrial Estate, launched the exhibition on February 22. The group have been in existence for more than 15 years, and meet in Blanchardstown Library every Wednesday at 6.30pm. New members are always welcome. Drop in and see this exhibition – I did, and was most impressed!
8 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 8 March 2012
OPINION The Fiscal Compact Treaty; how should we vote?
Seize the opportunity and reject this Austerity Treaty S O f a r, t h e Government has come up with lots of reasons for us to vote Yes. We should vote for ‘economic stability’ and for ‘economic recovery’. Unfortunately, the Government never deals with the actual content of the Treaty. This is a Treaty to institutionalise austerity in Ireland and across Europe into the future. Article 3 of the Treaty requires all countries to meet a severe ‘structural deficit’ target of 0.5%. This will be locked into our law and an automatic ‘correction mechanism’ will be triggered if we don’t meet this target
– this means automatic cutbacks and extra taxes. The Department of Finance estimates our ‘structural deficit’ in 2015 will be 3.7%. Meeting the target in 2015 would mean an additional €5.7 billion worth of cuts and extra taxes. That means more unjust taxes, further attacks on social welfare and pensions and it means more drastic cuts in health and education. If the European Commission gives us a longer timeframe to meet the target, it simply means an extension of that austerity over a longer period of time. Austerity has already
destroyed the economies of Ireland, Greece, Portugal and Spain and threatens all of the eurozone with recession this year. This sort of savage austerity implemented simultaneously across Europe would dramatically deepen the economic crisis. Article 4 of the Treaty is a provision written for the bankers, bondholders and speculators who caused this crisis. It is a demand to reduce every country’s debt to GDP ratio to 60% at a fast rate. In Ireland’s case, unless there is economic growth (unlikely because of the austerity policies demanded by
Article 3), it will mean being forced to pay back €4.5 billion to the bondholders in 2015, on top of the €9 billion in interest payments we will be paying to them! T h e Tr e a t y e f f e ctively rules out significant public investment by the state. At a time when private sector investment is collapsing (despite profits increasing for big business), massive public sector investment is needed to create jobs to get hundreds of thousands off the dole. This will be effectively made illegal by this Treaty. T he Government’s scaremongering about
Ireland being outside of the euro and the EU should be rejected. This is a stand-alone Treaty. We must choose whether we want to join this Austerity Club or not. We should seize this opportunity to reject austerity at the ballot box. Doing so will open a debate and struggle across Europe about what kind of Europe do we want – one for the millionaires or one for the millions.
Paul Murphy MEP Paul Murphy is the Socialist Party / United Left Alliance MEP for Dublin www.paulmurphymep.eu
Paul Murphy MEP
Vote ‘Yes’ in referendum LAST week An Taoiseach announced that he will be putting a referendum to the people of Ireland on the EU Treaty. The Treaty is about reinforcing existing EU rules to reduce Government deficits and debts. By signing it, we will be joining other Eurozone Governments in an official agreement to live within our means. We have already committed to behaving responsibly when it comes to our finances, this Treaty would be rubber-stamping that commitment. This Treaty will not affect our existing spending plans or tax rates. We know all too well the fallout of fiscally irresponsible governments – we are suffering that fall-out today. If this Treaty were in place in 2007, for example, the then Government would not have been able to introduce the measures which over-stimulated the property market and were part of their General Election campaign promises. I will be voting ‘yes’ in the referendum and am asking you to vote ‘yes’ too. By supporting this Treaty we will be gaining access to additional ‘insurance’ funds should we need them. We will be putting an end to the excesses of domestic and international boom-to-bust cycles and sending a clear message of stability and fiscal responsibility internationally. We depend on this in order to attract multinationals
Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, Frances Fitzgerald
to our shores and to forge trade links with countries, including China, who’s Vice-President has just completed a very positive trip to Ireland. This Treaty makes official what we are already doing – it gives us the opportunity to grow trade links and rebuild our international reputation. The Treaty is based on the common-sense approach that we must run budget surpluses in good times so we can run deficits in bad times. It aims to maintain a debt/ GDP ratio of about 60% except in ‘exceptional circumstances’ such as recessions like the one we are in at the moment. All countries who are signed up to the Treaty will have to act responsibly. The progress we have made in the last year has resulted in investment by companies like Eli Lilly and Abbot Pharmaceuticals. We have seen these results here in our own area with investment by Microsoft, Pfizer and Google in Grange
Castle Business Park. We depend on our international reputation in order to attract this level of investment, which creates local jobs and spin off trade. If we pass this Treaty and manage our public finances responsibly we will be protected against market speculation from the new Eurozone Rescue Fund. This ‘insurance’ fund is a €500 billion European Stability Mechanism. If we don’t pass this Treaty we will be locked out of this fund but will still be bound by the EU fiscal rules. We are already signed up to the conditions – it makes total sense for us to sign up to avail of the insurance fund too. If you are undecided about how to vote; inform yourself. If you are unsure about the issues the best way to gain clarity is by reading the Treaty itself. This Treaty is only ten pages long and far less complex than previous European ones. I have put a link to it on my website, www.francesfitzgerald. ie and you can download it from there. The Referendum Commission will be publishing unbiased information explaining what the Treaty sets out, every household should receive this information in the run-up to polling day. A ‘yes’ vote is a yes to progress.
Frances Fitzgerald Minister for Children and Youth Affairs
8 March 2012 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 9
EVENT Stars shine at Celebration of Life Variety Gala Concert
Clare Connolly, Hannah Ring and Sally Ann Grassick
The Moore School of the Performing Arts
At a gala concert WARD-WINNING actor Brendan Gleeson was just one of the attractions at a recent Celebration of Life Variety Gala Concert’ in aid of St Francis Hospice in Dublin. The event was held at The Helix and saw some of Ireland’s leading talent on show to raise money for the hospice and the building of a new hospice in Blanchardstown.
A Laura McDonnell, Annette Weir, Maria Farmer and Hannah McDonnell
Singers Rebecca Storm and Virginia Kerr, entertainer, Syl Fox, The Moore School of the Performing Arts, Riverdance and the Mount Sackville Choir were all in attendance to support this worthy cause. Brendan and his sons performed an extract from Dubliners, while RTE presenter, Marty Whelan, was MC on the night.
Sr Margaret Cashman, of the St Francis Hospice, and Ethel McKenna, CEO of St Francis Hospice, with Domhnall Rebecca on stage
Rebecca Storm and Syl Fox
Deirdre Lonergan and Jean Fearon
and Brendan Gleeson
Catherine and Pat Bulman
Sinead Flood, Anna McGerr and Anna Flood
10 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 8 March 2012
EVENT Romantic Singles Night fun enjoyed at Tesco Cabra
Date Night Winners, David
Graham Mulcahey asking a contestant what she chose from
Fogarty and Paulina Sheeran
the store to represent her
Martin Saunders with Avril Mulcahey and some admirers. Pictures: Andrew Foley
Love is in the Aisles for couples ESCO held its most romantic event to date, Love is in the Aisles, an exclusive Singles Night at Tesco Cabra recently. Love is in the Aisles was a speed dating event with a twist, with 20 men and women attending looking for love. Participants were sent on missions around the store to find products which best represent their personalities, along with a variety of other
T
match-making games, with the most compatible couple at the end of the night winning a romantic dinner for two to the value of €200 in top Dublin restaurant, Pichet, on Valentine’s Night. The winners, Dave Fogarty, from Firhouse, and Pauline Sheerin, from Raheny, were announced live on the Love Zone Show on Dublin’s Q102 by host Debbie Allen.
Jessica with her bubble bath
Eugene and Muireann Judge
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Martin with his peppers
8 March 2012 GAZETTE 11
PEOPLE Hollywood history-maker’s talk in Dun Laoghaire
A Brave task to talk about Brenda’s hit CV IBAIRBRE NI BHRAONAIN
DUN Laoghaire’s Pavilion Theatre played host to a Hollywod historymaker recently, when film director Brenda Chapman held a two-day seminar. In 1998, Brenda became the first woman to direct an animated feature for a major Hollywood studio with The Prince of Egypt and her CV is full of other blockbusters, including Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King, WALL-E and Up. Brenda is also the original writer and director of Pixar’s upcoming feature, Brave. The seminar made up
part of Brenda’s time as a Fellow in the National Film School in IADT. T he Pavilion was packed with students from colleges all over the city, questioning Brenda on her career and seeking advice. Because she’d been stung by big studios in the early years she advised the assembly to become more “law savvy” as to contracts and protection of ideas. Brenda is from a very small farming community in Illinois where her time was occupied by drawing and making up stories. “There wasn’t much to do,” she said, adding that she has her own fam-
ily and tries to strike the right balance. She tried to stay at home for a while when her daughter was born but soon realised that she needed to feed her creative side too. “I did miss [my creative side} myself and I wanted to give my daughter a good example too. “I’ve always been respected as an artist. I was originally hired because I was a woman. Executives responded to the fact that I was a woman but my peers responded to my work. “And, despite the communication dispute with Pixar, I still have incredible respect for that ani-
Brenda Chapman (right), writer of Pixar’s upcoming film, Brave (above), addresses local students at the Pavilion Theatre
mation community.” That “commuication dispute” revolves around the film Brave, which Chapman based on her daughter but which she is no longer working on. She refuses to be drawn further on the matter as it is in legal limbo. “Right now, I’m just taking a break. I’ll spend
a bit of time with my daughter. “I grew up in a really small town and the thing I really wanted to be was a hermit and part of me is like, yeah, I’d still like to do that.” One theme of the seminar was female involvement. The Pavilion auditorium held a
great number of female students and these were Brenda’s primary questioners. “I’m very excited to see so many women in there. Because when I was at that point, there were three or four women in my class. But now, it’s still not quite halfand-half but it’s getting
there.” In answer to why she chose animation as her lifelong career, Brenda has no doubts as to it being the right choice. “I love to tell stories and I love to draw and I love fine art, and all that, so the only way I can combine the two sides is through animation.”
12 GAZETTE 8 March 2012
GOT SOMETHING TO TELL US? WATER:
YOUR LOCAL PAPER, YOUR LOCAL NEWS! Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email news@gazettegroup.com
NEW PLANS PROPOSED
Making water meters pay I PAUL HOSFORD
news@gazettegroup.com
A NEW report has suggested giving financial incentives to people who instal water meters to help boost the local economy. The plan is one of many proposals contained in a document called Water Sector Reform by South Dublin Chamber, which was presented to the Department of Environment, Community and Local Government last week. T he proposals are based on the recent Government Position Paper and the 2011 Irish Water Phase 1 Report by Price Waterhouse Cooper. T h e Wa t e r S e c t o r Reform document also calls for the State’s proposed new water services utility to bear the cost of phased water meter installation. Peter By rne, chief executive officer of South Dublin Chamber, said the incentive would be a boon for struggling local economies in particular. “This incentive would boost the local economy and lessen the burden on the State to roll out the metering process.”
Patrick’s Day: It’s time for the party favours CELEBRATE in style this St Patrick’s Day
with a little help from Tesco Ensure you are kitted out for this year’s St Patrick’s Day celebrations by popping down to your local Tesco store where you can pick up an array of fun items available at great value prices. Decorate your home or workplace for St Patrick’s Day by picking up the Tesco 23 Foot Ireland Bunting at just €6.99 or some Ireland Flags available for just €1.49 each – perfect for decorating your St Patrick’s Day parties. For the St Patrick’s Day parade, why not pick up a fun Leprechaun Hat with Beard, the trendy Tesco Green, White and Gold Trim Cowboy Hat or the Tricolour Jester Hat for just €5.99 each? For the ladies, the Glitter Mini Hat with ribbon and feather is just €3.99, the Leprechaun Hairband with Green Hat is just €2.49 or the funky Black Shamrock Tights are just €5.99. And there’s also the St Patrick’s Day novelty tie at just €3.49 or the St Patrick’s Day Rosettes for just €1.99. Tesco also has a great range of accessories including the St Patrick’s Day Inflatable Sticks (2 pack) €1.20 or the St Patrick’s Day Vuvuzela Horn just €1.99 which are sure to finish off your Patrick’s Day attire. For details, visit www.tesco.ie
8 March 2012 GAZETTE 13
14 GAZETTE 8 March 2012
GazetteHEALTH HEALTH& &BEAUTY
Blood pressure – keeping it down!
A new heavenly collection I
BLOOD pressure is essential for us all to survive - without it our blood vessels would collapse. Hypertension, on the other hand, refers to blood pressure above a defined safe limit. Hypertension forces the heart to work harder and it is the single most important risk factor for coronary heart disease and stroke. Symptoms
Because hypertension generally has no symptoms it is essential that you attend your doctor or local pharmacy to get your blood pressure checked on a regular basis. With thanks to the staff at Lucan Village Pharmacy Helena Christensen (left) has officially launched her exclusive Triumph Essence Spring/Summer lingerie collection
CONIC supermodel Helena Christensen was in Dublin last week to officially launch her exclusive Triumph Essence Spring/ Summer lingerie collection, and Gazette Beauty went down to take a closer look. She has been in the business for over two decades and is still as stunning as she was starting out. The former Victoria Secret model has moved to the other side of the lens. She is now a photographer, and is an in-house photographer at Oxfam. The international fashion icon greeted guests and posed for photographers at Brown Thomas, when she showed off her lingerie collection recently. Wo m e n a n d m e n packed the lingerie room at Brown Thomas in Grafton Street to see what her collection offered, but really most just wanted to see what a real supermodel looks like, and hearing whisperings by customers behind me saying: “Oh, my God, she looks amazing” and “look at that body”, they weren’t disappointed. The Danish super-
model joined forces with Triumph Essence to design a sensual collection that includes a lacy bra and stunning bodyhugging skirt with subtle shaping properties and sexy string. For Helena, it’s essential for lingerie designers to get the woman’s perspective because women have to wear them, and what most women want is to feel sexy, yet comfortable in what they are wearing underneath their clothes. “For me, it’s essential for a lingerie company to have a female perspective. After all, women are wearing these pieces and it’s all about what makes you feel good. And these sophisticated styles definitely do that.” The model, who is not a big fan of g-strings, says creating the perfect piece of lingerie for women is “basically a science” because everyone has different bodies. Whether you want to treat yourself to a lavish lingerie collection, or you are looking for something extra special for that extra special dress, be it a wedding or ball gown, the Triumph Essence Collection has a stunning collection of
GOT A STORY? WE WANT TO KNOW!
Call our NEWS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email news@gazettegroup.com
Each Triumph Essence piece is developed to provide a blend of perfect fit and precise craftsmanship
8 March 2012 GAZETTE 15
Edited by Laura Webb
from Helena flattering designs to suit most body shapes. The Delicate Essence series combines lace and soft elastic fabric for charming and subtle shaping effects. The Charming Essence series stands out with delicate lace in striking geometric pattern. Decorative tassels, peek-a-book details, fine Guipure embroidery and flirty straps made of pleated mesh are playful details every fashionenthusiast admires. The Precious Essence series is a dream come true for brides-to-be because of its feminine look, which is available in a creamy white.
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‘For me, it’s essential for a lingerie company to have a female perspective’
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Helena Christensen
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Each Triumph Essence piece is developed to provide an uncompromising blend of perfect fit, precise craftsmanship and care for the small details that make all the difference. This is true luxury. And these are the qualities Triumph
has refined throughout over 125-years of lingerie excellence. The Triumph Essence collection, with designs by Helena Christensen, is available in The Lingerie Rooms at Brown Thomas Dublin, Cork, Galway and Limerick. Brown Thomas resident fitters are on hand to help solve all lingerie dilemmas, offering personal consultations to help weary lingerie shoppers to find their optimum shapes and styles. Book your personal lingerie and shapewear fitting appointment in The Lingerie Rooms Dublin at 01 – 617 1114.
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16 GAZETTE 8 March 2012
GazettePETS PETS
Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA
THE FACTS: HELP PREVENT POTENTIALLY UNWANTED AND ABANDONED CATS AND DOGS
Spaying or neutering your pet AS THE country’s leadi n g a n i m a l we l f a r e organisation, we at the Dublin SPCA understand and appreciate the importance of spaying and neutering animals. In fact, for 172 years this Society has assumed a leadership role in advocating and offering affordable spaying and neutering in order to help prevent the cruel and inhumane slaughter of unwanted, homeless, abandoned and neglected cats and dogs. In Ireland, as in every other country in the world, there are homeless animals. Many of these end up in rescue shelters similar to the Dublin SPCA. Through our very strict re-homing policy, we manage to rehabilitate them with loving, caring families. They are the lucky ones. Tr a g i c a l l y, m a ny, many, more, throughout the world, though healthy, wonderful and companionable they may be – face the pros-
pect of being euthanised due to a shortage of new homes and this is the only future they can look forward to. But it’s not just abandoned animals that are left at shelters. No, it’s the offspring of beloved family pets. Let me explain: For example, I wish I had a euro every time somebody visits our clinic with a pregnant pet explaining she “managed to get out of the garden, went missing for only half an hour and came back pregnant”. And, even if the “accidental” offspring manage to get adopted, it’s still possible for them to be placed in a rescue shelter due to them being “too big,” “not great with the kids,” “doesn’t fit in with the new decor,” or “too difficult to handle.” Yep, we’ve heard it all. So, in order to avoid this happening to you and your pet, because, let’s face it, no family wants an unwanted
pregnancy – I thought I’d make readers aware, or shine a little spotlight if I may, on World Annual Spay Day – it usually falls around the last week in February but you can visit your vet at any time. He/she will be thrilled to advise you regarding your pet because having your animal altered is the only effective 100% method of birth control. And, FYI, for those pet parents who are in receipt of social welfare payments, it’s advisable to drop into the Dublin SPCA mobile veterinary clinic at any one of our four Dublin locations, (details on www.dspca. ie/mobileclinic and have a chat with our vet). However, proof of social welfare is an absolute strict condition of this affordable, low-cost service. Neutering: The Facts.
• Castrating your dog prevents more than unwanted litters – it can help prevent testicular and prostate cancer,
Having your pet spayed or neutered is the only effective 100% method of birth control
which is common in unneutered dogs. In addition to this, if the dog is neutered before he reaches adulthood, he will not naturally develop the types of territorial behaviours un-neutered male dogs develop, i.e. aggressiveness, marking territory, roaming, etc., • Neutering is also a routine, relatively lowrisk surgery with a swift recovery time. Serious complications are rare and owners can usually take their dog home on the same day surgery is performed, having him back to his old self in no time. Spaying: The Facts.
• Spaying your female dog eliminates the problem of stray males camp-
ing on your doorstep and decreases her own desire to roam and breed. In addition, there are many health benefits attached, such as a marked reduction in the risk of her contracting ovarian cancer, mammary gland tumours and the procedure helps reduce aggression. The Myths:
• Spaying/neutering will make my pet fat. Nonsense. Owners make their pets fat! Failing to provide an adequate, healthy diet and daily exercise will render your pet fat. • Bitches should have one litter. This is of no benefit at all and simply an old wives tale. • Spaying and neuter-
ing is cruel. Look, we, as humans, domesticated animals and brought them into our lives and homes. The environment we created for them is far removed from their natural one and we have made them dependent on us; therefore we are responsible for their care. What is cruel, in my opinion, is allowing your bitch to have litter after litter and then dumping the puppies in a black sack on a deserted roadside, leaving the poor mites to fend for themselves and the mother heavily burdened with milk, with a serious risk of developing mastitis and dying from lack of veterinary care ... do you get my point?
• My dog’s personality will alter. Oh grow up! Neutering/spaying has absolutely no negative affect on your dog’s personality. Be positive! This procedure will make your animal more amenable, less aggressive and less likely to pick a fight! So, to those of you who whine, “it’s not normal,” or “my bitch deserves to have a litter,” my response to that is, get a clue, save a life; spay/ neuter your pet immediately or as soon as practicable. Contact your local vet for details. For more information log onto www.dspca.ie or email me at miriam. kerins@dspca.ie
8 March 2012 GAZETTE 17
18 GAZETTE 8 March 2012
GazetteMUSIC MUSIC FastTunes with Radio Nova’s Dee Woods
REVIEW: BACK TO THE FUTURE WITH FORMER REPUBLIC STARS
Cars Love Girls love... I ROB HEIGH
GOT last year’s mud scraped off your wellies? Ready to reveal your pasty pins in a pair of shorts (no matter how blue the cold makes your legs go.) Have a hankering for something cooked in a van? Then you’re ready for festival season. And with musical meccas cropping up on seemingly every grassy knoll this year, there are plenty of chances to check out bands you love and possibly discover new ones. We may be without Oxegen but we do have electricity. The Electric Picnic in Stradbally starts on August 31 and its line-up this year is a melting pot of acts and activities that includes multi-platinum artists like The Killers and The Cure, to festival staples like Christy Moore and Glen Hansard, and up-and-coming talents like Jonathan Wilson and Ed Sheeran. I’m already charged! Listen to Dee Woods from Radio Nova every weeknight from 7pm to 12am on 100.3FM
CARS Love Girls are set to launch their debut album, Skip School, this week and having heard the album, my goodness, you had better be at the Workman’s Club this Thursday. If you’re not lucky enough to be there, then you ought to rush out and buy the album immediately. When we spoke to lead singer Bres last summer, he was keen to get the band out into the public arena, but he was equally keen to make sure that the band took time to perfect every flick and twist, and that is clealy what Cars Love Girls have done. The slow gestation and polishing of every track here bears great fruit, and
is no small tribute to the quality of the songwriting and musicianship of the band, as well as the final touches provided by one of the most prominent names in mastering, Bernie Grundman, who worked on Carol King’s Tapestry, Steely Dan’s Aja and Prince’s Purple Rain. Whatever way you turn, there are inflections of some of the classiest pop in history throughout this record, and that’s no bad thing to wear on your sleeve when your influences are the best in the business. Opening with the Prefab Sprout-esque overture of What’s On My Mind, Skip School melts the day around you as you get drawn into its velvet sheen.
Cars Love Girls open up their account with a top-class debut album
There’s a pure pop sensibility that runs through every note of the album, and CLG’s way round a melody is refreshing, to say the least. Debut single, Lose Your Mind, langorously grooves it way out of the speakers,
while Never Gonna Get It wears its Prince influence on its sleeve, a combination of choppy guitar and synth lines that throw you all the way back to the heights of 1999-era Rogers Nelson. Cars Love Girls (the
track) is a Steely Daninfluenced west coast classic, another reinforcement of the feeling that this is the kind of music should be listened to in a convertible on a freeway driving next to the ocean. A fine debut all round.
8 March 2012 GAZETTE 19
GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS
Supported by AIB
Interview: Sandra Taylor, founder of Angelic Touch
A holistic touch to help resolve anxieties SANDRA Taylor had a very successful career in IT, but found that in recent years, it wasn’t getting her out of bed in the morning, and she struggled to figure out what she wanted to do. This struggle went on for a number of years until she had the luck to end up working in the same company as a woman who shared the same struggle. They started talking about what they wanted to do with their lives, started doing courses together, and six years later are the best of friends Her journey from there has had its highs and lows, with part of the journey to heal her own issues so that she could help her clients heal themselves. Sandra suffered panic attacks, fears and anxieties, fear of flying, mild agoraphobia, hated crowds and questioned whether her new path in life was the correct one – was an IT consultant job easier? For her, it would have been the easier path but not the correct one, as she felt that she wasn’t put on this planet to be an IT consultant. She underwent various therapies to help heal and resolve issues that caused
the panic attacks and anxieties and, today, she is feeling really good. However, she knows there are a lot of people out there that struggle like she did. As Sandra says, we live in stressful times; we often suffer from stressrelated health problems. Stress acts on the body and the mind and, therefore, on our whole being, causing us to battle through life. Sandra believes that adopting a holistic and natural healing approach is the best way to balance the body, mind and soul, allowing the body to use its natural ability to heal itself. She achieves this by using a variety of therapies that she is qualified in. In addition to helping clients resolve fears, phobias and anxieties, she is also a qualified reflexologist and massage therapist, and often uses a combination of therapies to help treat the mind and the body. Sandra also hosts talks/seminars by well-known speakers on holistic health. For more information about Angelic Touch, or to attend a “Detox Your Mind” event, see www.angelictouch.ie, or call Sandra at 086 838 4134.
the UK taxpayer. Investors are guaranteed up to €100,000 per person (and if sterling, the equivalent of € 100,000 so funds sent across the Irish Sea or up to the North of Ireland would be covered to this threshold) by the UK Financial Regulatory Authority. You may also remember Ulster Bank took over the engagements of ( i.e. bought ) First Active plc, formerly First National Building Society. Other institutions covered by the UK authority include Investec Bank, Leeds Building Society and Nationwide UK Building Society. KBC Bank, Rabo Bank and Danske Bank guarantee their respective subsidiaries here.
INCOME PROTECTION OR SERIOUS ILLNESS COVER Q – I took out a serious illness policy four years ago. I am a 36-year-old widow with two young children in professional employment, earning in excess of €85,000 per annum. The monthly contributions for this insurance are sizeable and with my current health good, seems to be a big waste of money. A friend of mine suggested I would be better off with income protection. What would you advise? Jenny – Blackrock
Sandra Taylor
A – Your friend could be right. Serious illness cover,
Q: What part of your working day do you ‘delegate’? A: None. I’m a one-man-band,
Q: What habits would you like to lose? A: Saying ‘You know’ at the
Q: What was your first job? A: Mortgage administrator in
so if it’s doing my treatments, designing/printing my brochures and flyers, updating my website, organising talks/ seminars/courses, I have to do it myself – but I love it
end of every sentence
Q: Have you ever done a job you loathed? A: No Q: When did you start your present job? A: October, 2009
ment guarantee? Alan - Mulhuddart
of Scotland (RBS) who, in turn, are owned 84% by
Q: When you were a kid, what did you want to be? A: PE teacher
Q: And your first pay cheque? A: My memory isn’t that good
Q – Is the Ulster Bank covered by the Govern-
A – The Ulster Bank is owned by the Royal Bank
Q&A
Irish Permanent
DEPOSIT GUARANTEES
Q: What’s currently on your desk that shouldn’t be? A: ITEC Teaching Diploma assignments – I really need to get the assignments finished
Q: At the moment, what are you looking forward to? A: Expanding my business
that the last body of the Tit Bonhomme victims was recovered
or critical illness only covers you in the event of contracting a serious illness (the big four in particular are cancer, heart attack, stroke, MS) but you could be incapacitated for any reason outside of these
Q: Describe your dream meal? A: Diep Le Shaker, Pembroke
“serious” illnesses and not be compensated. With
Street with hubby
tion be more suitable, but the premiums you pay
two young children, not only would income protecattract tax relief at your full marginal rate (which in
Q: What is your guilty music/ TV or movie pleasure? A: The Champ, or Shemar
Q: Who would you like to have dinner with – Enda Kenny or Dame Edna? A: Dame Edna, without a
Moore – AKA Derek Morgan, from Criminal Minds
shadow of doubt – at least he/ she would be a bit of a laugh
Q: What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/ iPad? A: I tend to listen to chill-out,
Q: Describe your dream holiday? A: Somewhere near the sea
covers 75% of your monthly salary (less any social
with my husband and kids, not too hot, with lots of activities, yet lots of treatments to help unwind
Some serious illness or critical illness cover can be
Q: What is the best thing about your job? A: Working for myself, look-
Q: Is there anything about yourself that you would like to set the record straight on? A: Redheads have a bad
ing after my clients and seeing their quality of life improving following treatment
reputation of having a fiery temper – not true! We are just passionate souls!
Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook? A: Kilmacud Crokes GAA,
Q: : Have you achieved anything that you once thought you could not pull off? A: Getting my first diploma at
Q: What sport do you follow? A: Football, rugby, GAA and
Louise Hay, Deepak Chopra, CoWorkinn
MotoGP
the age of 43 – in Anatomy and Physiology. It’s never too late!
Q: What sport can you play? A: Football.
Q: What was your last tweet/ status update? A: Shared great but sad news
relaxing music most of the time
your case would be 41%). Put another way, a golfing partner once confided to me that he missed out on a payout from his serious illness policy because he only had one stent put into his heart (apparently the minimum is two!). Essentially, income protection welfare payments) until your incapacitation ends or your pension kicks in – whichever is the sooner. considered as part of an overall mix of health cover. It is important you obtain independent and professional advice.
Q: What would be your dream job? A: Managing my own beautiful
Contact John with your money questions at
holistic treatment centre
www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the
Q: What do you plan to do when you retire? A: Enjoy it
Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing
SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS
ADVERTISE WITH THE GAZET TE CALL 60 10 240
jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at
director of Money Doctor
LOCAL
MATTERS
20 GAZETTE 8 March 2012
GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs GETTING MORE MILES FROM SKODA:
SKODA’s Dublin dealerships are giving away 300km of free fuel for every person who visits the dealership between now and March 16, and takes a test drive in any SKODA model. SKODA will also reward anyone who orders and registers a new SKODA before March 31 with an additional 3,000km Topaz fuel voucher. This latest offer from SKODA’s Dublin dealerships is part of a nationwide testdrive campaign where SKODA intends to give away up to twomillion kilometres worth of free fuel. Announcing the offer, Ray Leddy, marketing manager of Skoda Ireland said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for the people of Dublin to save some hardearned cash and avail of this free fuel offer.”
A recent survey has shown that 46% of all cyclists have done things like breaking red lights, while nearly three quarters don’t wear a helmet
Nearly half of cyclists break rules of the road HILE the majority of cyclists heed the rules of the road, a roadside survey in Dublin has shown that nearly a half (46 percent) break the law on Dublin’s streets. The survey by Semperit Tyres was carried out over two days at a number of locations around Dublin city and environs. Paddy Murphy, from Semperit Tyres Ireland, said: “Safety is key for
W
us in Semperit and that was the motivation for us to carry out this survey. The good news is that the majority of cyclists are careful and law-abiding but there is a significant minority who don’t obey the rules and it needs to be brought home to them that their behaviour is not only a safety hazard for themselves but also for other road users. “From my own experience, I know that cyclists
don’t have it easy on Ireland’s roads; badly designed and badly maintained roads, insufficient cycle path provision and aggressive driving habits, all combine to make life difficult for cyclists. However, as the most vulnerable class of road user, they really need to heed all of the rules of the road in order to stay safe.” The main infringements highlighted by the survey included cycling
on footpaths (21 per cent); breaking traffic lights (15 per cent); and cycling against the flow of traffic or wrong way on a one-way street (14 per cent). And although they are not obligatory, nearly three-quarters (73 per cent) of cyclists do not wear a protective helmet. Helmets have been shown to significantly reduce head injuries for cyclists in the event of a collision. At opposite ends of the
scale, the survey showed that teenagers proved to be the least observant of rules, while over-50s were the least likely to break the law. Exactly two-thirds (66 per cent) of teenagers were seen to break the law with a significant number commiting multiple infringements within a short space of time (e.g. breaking a red light and then cycling on the footpath). W h i l e t h e s u r ve y was being carried out,
a cyclist who broke a red light while pedestrians were crossing, was challenged by a pedestrian and the cyclist was heard to shout: “Traffic lights are for cars, cyclists don’t have to heed them.” However, under the terms of the Road Traffic Act, a bicycle is considered to be a vehicle, and thus, similar to car drivers, cyclists are obliged to obey the road traffic laws.
MINI making a statement in the commercial van world MINI are set to reveal a new stand-outfrom-the-crowd concept at Geneva International Motor Show 2012 – The MINI Clubvan Concept – a compact van for business and leisure, and the first premium model in the small carbased van segment. According to MINI, the Clubvan Concept proves that style can also be
practical. The MINI Clubman-based concept car combines all of the driving fun and distinctive design for which MINI is renowned, with an increased load-carrying capability. The Clubvan concept opens the door to a completely new market for MINI, premium small businesses who want to combine sharp driving dynamics with
low-cost of ownership, while also making a style statement with their company van. The Clubvan Concept is a five-door car with a twist. Two front doors for the driver and front passenger, two sidehinged rear doors and the rear-hinged Clubdoor on the right-hand side all create useful access. The Clubdoor gives
owners the option of loading smaller items from the side of the car as well as the rear.
8 March 2012 GAZETTE 21
Edited by Cormac Curtis
WHITE VANS
TomTom looking to improve Freight safety TOMTOM has launched a new partnership with the Freight Transport Association (FTA). The link-up will see TomTom provide their support for the FTA’s Van Excellence programme, which aims to promote best practice through selfregulation. TomTom and its network of fleet consultant resellers will promote best practice in van fleets across the UK and Ireland. The local representatives will use the FTA’s best practice guides to help van managers strive towards Van Excellence, using TomTom’s technology to underpin efforts to achieve this status. “We are delighted to join forces with the FTA, as the Van Excellence programme represents a significant move to raise standards throughout the industry,” said Giles Margerison, of TomTom. “The programme offers an ideal fit with TomTom Business Solution’s own values in promoting greener, safer, more efficient drivers. Self-regulation is important in ensuring high levels of operational best practice and our technology can help to provide the framework companies need to maintain those standards.” More than 40 organisations have already signed up forVan Excellence and members will be accredited through a robust auditing process. The programme is designed to improve safety and efficiency among van drivers, and help to scrap the outdated “white van man” image. Businesses interested in signing up for the programme should contact the FTA on +44 (0)8700 202 021.
The new Honda Civic, which has been hailed as one of the safest cars on the road
Civic safety supreme T HE new Honda Civic has received a five-star Euro NCAP Overall Safety Rating and Advanced NCAP Award for Safety Innovation. The new Civic has been rated one of Europe‘s safest cars, according to new independent crash testing results from Euro NCAP. In addition, Euro NCAP have announced that they are extending Honda’s Advanced NCAP reward for its Collision Mitigation Braking Sys-
tem (CMBS) technology to include the new Civic. The new Honda Civic has been awarded Euro NCAP’s maximum five-star rating. The rating scheme focuses on the vehicle’s overall safety performance which gives consumers an easy-to-understand single score. The system considers occupant protection, child protection, pedestrian protection and the availability of driver aids. Since the introduction of Euro NCAP’s new rating scheme all
Honda models tested have achieved five stars. Michiel van Ratingen, Euro NCAP Secretary General, commented “The ninth generation Civic impressed and achieved high scores in all areas of assessment, putting it on a par with its rivals in this competitive market segment. The car scored well in Safety Assist and is also fitted as an option with Honda’s Collision Mitigation Brake System (CMBS).”
Euro NCAP also announced that they are extending Honda’s Advanced NCAP reward for its CMBS technology to include the new Civic. The reward recognises Honda‘s CMBS technology as amongst the best available safety innovations, offering research proven benefits. Euro NCAP Advanced is an initiative developed in response to the rapid development of new safety technologies, for which there is no independent assessment.
This Tourneo aims to beat competition THE new Ford Tourneo Custom Concept will make its global debut at the 2012 Geneva Motor Show in March, bringing a new level of energy and style to the European personal use vehicle segment. Previewing the introduction of a completely new range of people movers, with commercial vehicles to follow, the Tourneo Custom Concept showcases a dramatic new look that will appeal to customers seeking style,
functionality and space. “One look at the Tourneo Custom Concept is enough to tell you that it will inject an exciting new spirit into the personal use segment,” said Stephen Odell, chairman and CEO, Ford of Europe. “Our forthcoming new range gives us the opportunity to appeal to new customers with a fresh new direction, and we have seized that opportunity with both hands. “The Tourneo Custom Concept will preview of
a host of exciting new features, which give the vehicle strong car-like appeal. “These include an allnew interior design with driver-focused cockpit, and a luxurious, fully trimmed cabin which has the ambience and highquality materials of a modern multi-seat saloon car.” Ford says the Tourneo Custom Concept “communicates very clearly a dramatic new design direction for Ford’s commercial vehicle range”.
The new Ford Tourneo, which will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show
22 GAZETTE 8 March 2012
R1
GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel
Leopards, temples and culture ... it can only be lovely Sri Lanka SRI LANKA conjures up images of tea plantations, beaches, sacred temples and exotic wildlife, and the island will not disappoint those looking for a holiday of exceptional variety this year, with an exceptional escorted tour available, from €2,139. Once landed, you’re in a different world, with a night in the vibrant colonial capital followed by a visit to cave paintings, en route to the ruins of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. History is everywhere, as shrines and temples punctuate this part of the tour, along with opportunities for an elephant-back safari and a visit to an elephant orphanage. A cultural evening is then followed by a trip to a tea plantation on the way to Nuwara Eliya, and then on to Yala National Park, where you can look out for leopards and other exotic creatures as part of a two-night stay there. Two relaxing days at the beach at Bentota, with visits to local towns, round off the 12-day adventure. The full escorted tour starts from €2,139 ex-London, which includes breakfast on most mornings, dinner on seven nights and lunch at the elephant sanctuary. Connecting flights from Dublin can be arranged. To book, visit your local travel agent or call the Thomas Cook Ireland team in Dublin on 01 514 0316.
A spacious Tara Room suite at the Trinity Capital Hotel on Pearse St in the heart of Dublin
CITY BREAK: A FOUR-STAR HOTEL THAT DARES TO BE DIFFERENT
Step into another world at the Trinity Capital JESSICA MAILE
I THINK its important to state that not all four-star hotels are the same. I’m sure we have all been in hotels where the decor and atmosphere makes them all feel similar. The Trinity Capital Hotel breaks that mould. Walking off Pearse Street and into the reception area, you know you have entered a hotel
with a difference. The subtle lighting and cosy selection of extremely tall Winsdor-like chairs makes you want to just sit back and watch Dublin pass by or marvel at the amazing chandeliers. The interior design makes you feel so warm and at home, as the dark, yet warm, colours give off a cosy, but exotic, atmosphere and you can certainly see why the hotel has achieved it’s four-star status. As we made our way to our room, the journey down the purple and magenta hallway was relaxing (it sounds a bit much, but with the low lighting, it really worked) and made us wonder what the inside of the rooms was going to look like! The Tara Rooms may have been at the end of this inspirational corridor, but the best was definitely left to last. It was a hard choice between the huge bed, or the wonderfully modern
The lavishly decorated bar
sofas that invited you to take the pressure off your legs after a day’s shopping in the capital city. The carpet, cleverly designed to look like floorboards, and the bare brick gave the room a modern, yet homely feel that would be suited in any docklands warehouse apartment conversion. As evening approached, it was time to sit back with a refreshing pint in the lavishly decorated bar and enjoy the buzz of conversations and the exotic music playing in the background. The soft lighting from the internal courtyard provided a
warming glow and actually made us feel like we were in a much warmer climate. The Cafe Cairo restaurant provided a wonderful choice of meals to suit our building hunger, and our friendly hostess even helped with a recommendation for which wine to choose. The delicious lamb kebabs, with a tangy cucumber and mint sauce as starter, just stirred up my appetite as I knew the Surf and Turf was next for the main course. The succulent steak, and large tiger prawns, did not disappoint, but I
had to make sure I still had room for the blackcurrant cheesecake to top it all off. The combination of a full stomach and warm ambience combined to make us feel ready to waddle back to our large, comfy bed for a peaceful night’s sleep. The central location of the Trinity Capital Hotel makes it an ideal venue to appreciate all that Dublin has to offer. It was just a short walk before we were right in the heart of Dublin shopping district, as Grafton Street and O’Connell Street were just a stroll away. T he Trinity Capital Hotel offers all that you would want from a city hotel, but with that something extra special that you will want to take home with you, especially if it’s one of those oversized armchairs for your front room! For more information see www.trinitycapitalhotel.com.
8 March 2012 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 23
Edited by Mimi Murray
SAFARI: LUXURY BREAK TAKES IN SPECTACULAR NATURAL SIGHTS
Kenya find a better getaway in Africa? THE itinerary of the Kenya Migration Safari has been specially designed to put you at the heart of the annual wildlife migration. Visitors to this beautiful country will experience three very different regions while on safari, including Sambur u, which is rugged and beautiful and is renowned for predators and elephants; Nakuru, which is located in the Great Rift Valley, and is most famous for its flamingos and rhino, and the Masai Mara – world famous for its rolling grasslands and vast migrating herds. Enjoy this magnificent country as you drive on its rugged roads through rich farm land. Samburu Reserve lies 300km north of Nairobi, on the hot and arid fringes of Kenya. You arrive in time for lunch, followed by a game viewing drive. The Ashnil Samburu is separated from the reserve by the Uaso Nyiro River. The reserve lies within the lands of the Samburu people and is home to wildlife rarely found elsewhere in Kenya, including Grevy’s zebra, reticulated giraffe, and beisa oryx, which are found only north of the equator. The graceful gerenuk – an antelope with a characteristic long neck – spends much of its time in a bipedal stance, seeking relaxation in the sparse scrub that grows in this harsh terrain. This dramatic landscape is blanketed by the hot equatorial sun for most of the year. Relief comes from the cool waters of the Uaso Nyiro River, which rises to the west on the foothills of the Aberdares and which vanishes beyond Samburu in the soggy expanse known
Flamingos flock to Lake Nakaru in their thousands – just one of Kenya’s many stunning natural sights
as the Lorian Swamp. Sweetwaters is a sheltered oasis, clustered around a water hole and set in the pristine and private Ol Pejeta Conservancy. Game here includes elephants, giraffes, zebras and impalas and you will also visit the 200-acre chimpanzee sanctuary, established by Kenya’s Wildlife Service and the Jane Goodall Institute. More than 20 orphaned and abused chimps reside here, while becoming rehabilitated so they may be reintroduced to the wild. Sweetwaters also boasts almost 400 bird species. Nakuru is perhaps the most famous of Africa’s great soda lakes, and Lake Nakuru is home to hundreds of thousands of greater and lesser flamingos and many other water bird species. Built in a natural dais, overlooking one of the world’s greatest ornithological spectacles, the Sarova Lion Hill Lodge impresses with its panoramic views of Lake Nakuru. The lodge is surrounded by natural flora and fauna and you can enjoy the vista from the privacy
of your own veranda. One of the great natural features on earth, the Rift Valley is visible from outer space and stretches 5,500km, spans two continents, and runs from Jordan, through Kenya to Mozambique. In the Masai Mara, with the reserve borders between Kenya and Tanzania unfenced, the wildlife is free to migrate, and the Mara is probably best known for its annual wildebeest migration. Lion, cheetah and leopard are often spotted; however, it is the vast herds that will leave you spellbound. The cost is €2,195pp – ground only – and €2,718pp, including flights. The price of this trip includes all transfers, accommodation, meals and game drives as indicated, private transport
while on safari with a naturalist driver/guide, and National Park and transit fees. International return flights to Nairobi are not included, and will be priced on application to ensure the best fare. Kenya visa fees are USD$50 per person. Travel insurance, and tips to drivers, porters and bellmen are not included. The Kenya Migration Safari is only available from July 1 to October 31, so book now to avoid disappointment. This package can be booked as is. However, it is best combined with a beach stay of four or six nights in a resort along Mombasa’s sandy shores. This can be arranged upon request. For more information, or to book, visit www. gohop.ie.
You could easily see some of Samburu’s elephants
TravelBriefs
Exciting new wedding package on offer at the luxury four-star Slieve Russell hotel in Cavan THE Slieve Russell hotel in Cavan has launched its exciting new wedding package. The four-star luxury Slieve Russell Hotel, located on the Cavan border, has created a great wedding package that is budget-friendly, covering 100 guests for €5,000, with this offer valid on all Fridays and Saturdays during the months of January, February, March, November and December, 2013, and all midweek dates in 2013 (excluding December 27 to 31). Set in 300 acres of magnificently landscaped gardens, including 50 acres of lakes, the hotel ensures the perfect setting for your wedding day. Inspirational gardens with vibrant and unique surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for those all-important wedding shots. For further information, contact the Slieve Russell sales office on 049 952 6444, see www.slieverussell.ie, or email slieve-sales@ quinn-hotels.com.
24 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 8 March 2012
GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT
GoingOUT THE PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Carthaginans
CONTINUING with The Pavilion’s run of strong, memorable drama, Frank McGuinness’ striking play, Carthaginans, runs on Friday, March 9 and Saturday, March 10. Influenced by Bloody Sunday, and delving into certain facets of The Troubles, this production, set in a graveyard, both helps to commemorate the 40th anniversary of Bloody Sunday and provides some thought-provoking entertainment for theatre fans. Catch the show at 8pm, with tickets costing €20/6.
MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 The Field GLENCULLEN Musical and Dramatic Society will bring the intimidating figure of Bull McCabe to life in their production of the classic John B Keane play, The Field. Marking the tenth anniversary of the acclaimed playwright’s death, the imposing tenant farmer will stalk the rural setting of a remote Irish village, while tragedy builds like billowing stormclouds over a simple field ... The show runs nightly at 8pm until Saturday, March 10, with tickets priced at €15/€12.
CIVIC THEATRE 01 885 2622 Love’s Last Shift PRESENTED by Bull Alley Training College, the sights, sounds and mores of 1696 will be brought to life in a broad farce inflluenced partly by the Restoration period’s values, and theatrical tastes. When a virtuous wife’s longabsent rake of a husband returns to London, yet no longer remembers her after all his time spent with the bottle and the brothel, she resolves to trick him, thus showing him the error of his ways ... The play runs at 8.15pm until Saturday, March 10, with admission costing €10/€7 conc.
DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 The Picture of Dorian Grey YOU’LL be Wilde about this production of the classic play, with Oscar’s masterpiece being brought to life with ease by the expert players of Wonderland Productions Limited. Gate Theatre regulars Michael James Ford and Michael Winder will be joined by the RSC’s Simon Coury for an exquisite dinner theatre 90-minute show at 7.30pm on Saturday, March 10, with tickets priced €40/€35 conc, which includes a three-course meal.
Although audiences may not have been quite as enthusiastic, there was near universal critical acclaim for The Artist, which claimed several titles at the recent Oscars’ ceremony, including the widely-expected wins for Best Actor, for Jean Dujardin, and Best Picture
Let’s look at Oscar Kate’s invite was lost in the post – but not to worry, as here’s a look at some key titles from this year’s awards I KATE CROWLEY
THERE’S no accounting for taste – something which my readers would probably hiss each week, but never mind. I mean, I take what you both think very seriously indeed, but I don’t always follow what general audiences, rather than my readers, are interested in. Take The Woman In Black, for instance, which I part reviewed last week, and noted that it was a decidedly twostar film. (Space prohibited me from revealing at the time that one star was given to star, Daniel Radcliffe’s whiskers.) However, audiences have begged to differ – in Britain, at least – where I see that the film has become the most successful horror film, like, ever. Yikes. Unlike the film, that’s rather scary ... Well, sticking with the audience for now, let’s follow ’em right on over
to The Oscars. Oh, sure, I’m a week late – but, on the other hand, this way I get to look at some of the winners, rather than sitting here with egg on my face from predicting likely winners from the week before. The Best Picture Oscar went to The Artist, which, in retrospect, wasn’t exactly the greatest surprise in the world. Although I never got around to reviewing it here, it’s a fine choice for best film, with the preceding year not having any particularly outstanding titles. Perhaps something of an acquired taste, it still stands out as an expertly made, yet entertaining look back at the fine old traditions of cinema itself, while its shameless mugging and over-the-top acting still has plenty of wit and warmth, making it a good, if somewhat safe, choice for that Oscar.
Not just one Oscar, of course, as it scooped up several others, with Jean Dujardin’s energetic performance seizing Best Actor, while other Oscars included Best Director, Best Original Score and Best Costume Design. Not bad going for a silent film. Hugo, which I did review, also did quite well, taking another impressive haul with such winners as Best Visual Effects, Best Sound Editing, and Best Cinematography, all of which helps to show that it’s not just a great, if thoughtful kids’ film, but also something that looks and sounds great, making it an audiovisual treat, and was a pretty good win for what is Marty
Scorcese’s first children’s film. Of course, Meryl Streep took yet another award, sweeping onto the stage to take Best Actress for The Iron Lady. Another non-surprise, as who on earth would argue with Margaret Thatcher – well, Meryl – on her way to the stage? I’m assuming thatMer yl’s downstairs loo – or wherever she keeps all her gold awards and statues – now has more bling than the window at Appleby’s. Something that was almost as golden was the highlyemotional acceptance speech by Octavia Spencer, given her Best Suppor ting Actress win for The Help;
a film I didn’t quite take to, but which was a hit for many. Christopher Plummer was gracious with his simple speech for his win for Best Supporting Actor for Beginners, while his rivals looked on from the rank-and-file filling the auditorium. Otherwise ... well, it was a mixed bag of largely unsurprising wins, while Billy Crystal’s shtick went down as well*/terribly* as usual (*delete as appropriate). And that’s yer lot. There were some great winners, some worthy ones, bizarre choices and curious omissions – same old, same old – creating an Oscars show, and selection, that was straightforward enough. And now, the Oscar award for the Best Suddenly Off To The Shops Film Critic goes to ...
In tribute to this year’s Best Picture winner, here’s a monochrome Oscar
8 March 2012 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 25
GazetteGAMING GAMING Bytesandpieces Could chain soon face Game over?
It’s early notice, but gamers will welcome the news of the release date for Bioshock Infinite, with its floating city-state setting of Columbia (above), echoing many of the architectural designs and societal mores of Chicago’s 1893 World Columbian Exposition (right)
Prepared for an Infinite adventure in Columbia? SHANE DILLON
BEING something of a nerd in many fields, and not just in gaming, I know lots of useless stuff – such as … did you know that the world’s first Ferris Wheel was Irish? (Keep reading – this is going somewhere, I promise.). Yes, indeed, the humble ferris wheel first made its appearance in Irish Town
– just one of the many national locations found within the vast, sprawling and pretty amazing 1893 World Columbian Exposition (also known as the Chicago World’s Fair of 1893). Amongst other gems, Irish Town featured a fine example of Irish steel and iron, which the ironmongers had crafted into a giant spinning
wheel with carriages, with which to raise visitors for a view over the vast site. So far, so … informative, yet what, one might ask, has the little-known wonder of the 1893 Chicago World Fair’s sights got to do with gaming today? It’s pretty simple, really, as the release date for Bioshock Infinite has
Anotherweebyte... Chilling news for Blizzard’s staff MANY readers will be aware of the jobs lost in Cork recently when Blizzard Entertainment announced that 200 jobs were to go at its division there, in a move that’s a personal tragedy for all involved, but a step that’s unlikely to have been very surprising for industry watchers, or, indeed, for many of Bliz-
zard’s user base. World of Warcraft, Blizzard’s international role-playing game, has peaked, plateaued and begun to lose subscribers, with a subscriber base standing at 12 million in 2010, but dropping to 10.2 million by the end of December last – a 15% drop that was set to inevitably hit staff numbers at the firm’s global operations. There’s absolutely no pun intended, but
Blizzard’s cuts are just another sign of the chill winds that continue to blow through the Irish and global economy. Hopefully, the staff at Blizzard’s Cork operations will benefit from the support available from IDA Ireland and other such bodies, and, with World of Warcraft set to be part of their past, I’m sure we all hope there’s a world of opportunity ahead for the 200 staff ...
just been announced – October 19 – and, for those who know of such matters, it’s easy to see Bioshock Infinite (or B3, as I’ll call it, being the third in the Bioshock series) as a setting that’s been heavily influenced by the architecture and stylings of the 1893 fair, coupled with the mores and habits of turn-of-thecentury America. Indeed, even by name alone, B3 seems influenced by the 1893 Fair, as its setting – the floating city of Columbia, traversing the sky with all manner of turbines and wind balloons holding it aloft – looks quite similar in look, and concept, to her earthbound Chicago counterpart. In B3, faced with the task of roaming through now largely lawless Columbia, which is feared by those lands below the anarchic floating city, the player will constantly endeavour to find, work with and
ultimately escape with Elizabeth – a mysterious women with barely controlled psychic powers, who is an essential part of Columbia’s destiny, and a character at the centre of several rival factions’ plans – and not all of them human ... So far, so Bioshock, as previous fans of Bioshock’s way of presenting story alongside gameplay will know to expect a first-personshooter that’s presented with interesting undertones to exercise their grey matter, alongside their trigger finger. Despite Columbia being set to be a very unwelcoming place for visitors on October 19 gamers will certainly be on cloud nine once they step forth into the floating city, where Elizabeth and all manner of wondrous sights, intimidating gangs, political rivalries – and terrifying falls to the distant landscape, below – will await …
I DIDN’T expect to be covering Game’s fortunes again quite so soon after last week’s side story on the retailer’s announcement it would not be stocking a significant new Wii release. However, the retailer has been making news for all the wrong reasons yet again, as its share price suddenly tumbled 15% at the end of last week. Continuing its ongoing trading difficulties with distributors, it was reported that Game was unable to reach agreement with EA over credit terms for stocking the imminent and keenlyanticipated cross-platform EA release, Mass Effect 3 (ME3) and, consequently, won’t be stocking ME3 at its stores upon its release this Friday – despite ME3 being one of the key “flagpole” releases for 2012 for all games retailers, and a lucrative money generator for all concerned. The failure to stock such a key title amounts to even more of Game’s balance-sheet blood in the water, as the retailer struggles to restructure its finances and credit sheet, and reach agreement with its significant trading partners. ME3’s war should have been a nice little earner for Game – or at the very least, helpful in addressing some of its ongoing credit issues – but, instead, gamers, shareholders and business correspondents could be forgiven for wondering if it’ll soon be Game over for the ailing chain …
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26 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 8 March 2012
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FINGAL COUNTY COUNCIL We, K & C Cassidy, intend to apply for PERMISSION for development at this site at Nos. 44 & 45 Alderwood, Ratoath Road, Hollystown, Dublin 15. The development will consist of relocation of boundary between existing dwelling at No. 44Alderwood & approved dwelling at No. 45 Alderwood (Reg. Ref: F05A/0715/E1), the relocation of car parking of No. 45 Alderwood to the southern side of the dwelling, single storey extension to side and rear of No. 44 Alderwood (29.3sqm) and all associated site works. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (EUR 20.00) within the period of five weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the Authority of the application 15007
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Further Information/Revised Plans. I, Vitalie Berzan, under planning reference FW11B/0071 applied for permission, but due to a request for Further Information/ Revised Plans the development will now consist of extension to existing hipped roof to form a gable roof at the sides of both dwellings for the purpose of attic storage, installation of solar panels to front section of both roofs, all associated site development works and overall boundary has been increased to include site no. 84 at both 82 & 84 The Village, Porterstown Road, Clonsilla, Dublin 15. Further Informaton/Revised plans in relation to the application have been furnished to the Planning Authority, and are available for inspection or purchase at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the authority during office hours. A submission or observation in relation to the further information or revised plans may be made in writing to the Planning Authority on payment of the prescribed fee. Submission or observations to be sent to the Planning Authority within two weeks of receipt by the Planning Authority of the newspaper notice and site notice or in the case of a planning application accompanied by an Environmental Impact Statement (E.I.S.), within 5 weeks of receipt of such notices by the Planning Authority.
Permission sought for removal of single storey bay window to side and relocation of main hall door from side to front elevation and provision of a two storey semi-detached dwelling to side (including attic conversion) with off street parking including relocation and widening of existing entrance driveway at 23 Warrenstown Grove, Blanchardstown Heath, Dublin 15. For Ann Hughes. This planning application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of the planning authority during its public opening hours and a submission or observation may be made to the Planning Authority in writing on payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application.
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GazetteSPORT
STARS IN YOUR EYES Dublin Sports Stars winners for February are announced: Page 29
SPORT SCIENCE: NUTRITIONAL BENEFIT OF MILK FORMS PART OF NATIONAL CAMPAIGN
Basketball Ireland and NDC hold seminar sport@gazettegroup.com
BASKETBALL Ireland, in conjunction with the National Dairy Council (NDC), recently held a Nutrition and Coaching Seminar for coaches at the National Basketball Arena, as part of the Milk it For All It’s Worth campaign. Dr Tom Hill, a senior lecturer in Nutrition at Newcastle University, led an interactive discussion, supported by
the nutritional team from NDC. Dr Hill has extensive experience of working on diet and nutrition issues with players, athletes and teams across a variety of sports, ranging from soccer to rowing. T he NDC interest is fuelled by the growing body of scientific research showing milk can play a very positive role in a number of aspects of sports nutri-
tion. Specific areas of focus include the effectiveness of skimmed milk as a rehydration drink after sports, in addition to research highlighting the beneficial role of milk and milk-based products in recovery from exercise-induced muscle damage. The beneficial role of milk in these areas has been attributed to the natural nutritional composition of milk.
Dr Tom Hill, Caroline O’Donovan from the National Dairy Council, and and Martin McGettrick, Basketball Ireland
A c c o r d i n g t o D r. Hill, coaches should be encouraged to initiate basic nutrition strategies with their squads. “Proper sports nutrition will help athletes to train and compete harder and to recover more quickly, so that they are better able to take on their next train-
ing session or competition,” said Dr. Hill. “The few hours before, during and after exercise are critical times for ensuring players eat and drink properly and coaches can play a role in giving encouragement to players around this. “During sport last-
ing more than 30 minutes, fluid intake may be required. Adequate rehydration after sports is vital to replace fluids lost via sweat.” Fluid requirements should also account for the ongoing sweat loss that occurs during the recovery period after exercise. In summary,
food and drink after sport, which replaces the carbohydrate stores, provides some protein and helps replace the fluid and electrolytes (sodium and potassium) lost in sweat is recommended. For more information on the campaign, see www.ndc.ie
28 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 8 March 2012
GazetteSport Sport
Club founder, Tom Moore, cuts the 25th birthday cake
John Delaney, Jim Geraghty, Tony Jordan and Tom Moore, with
in Castleknock Hotel and Country Club
schoolboy players, Leigh O’Reilly, Mark Hughes and Jonathon O’Hanlon David Hughes, and FAI CEO John Delaney
Minister Leo Varadkar, Councillor Eithnes Loftus, Hilary Treadwell,
Anniversary
Castleknock Celtic salute 25 years ASTLEKNOCK Celtic celebrated its 25th birthday in fine style at a gala event attended by 200 guests at the Castleknock Hotel & Country Club last week. Tony Jordan, co-founder and club secretary said: “Being part of the community, we believe we have a duty to encourage all children to play sport at a level where they enjoy their football and we continue to strive to provide the facilities to accommodate our growing numbers, which are now around 800. We like to think that we also help to instil the values of fair play, respect and sportsmanship in all our players.” The club’s standing in the community was reflected in the well-attended event where Minister Joan Burton, Minister Leo Vardakar and FAI chief executive, John Delaney, were on hand to not only show their support but also to say a few kind words about the club and its volunteers. Club chairman and co-founder, Jim Geraghty, who received an award from the club members said, “This club is about the community, and the support we receive from sponsors, managers and parents really symbolises what a community is all about.”
C
John Delaney, FAI CEO; Shay Fenton, Club Architect; Jim Geraghty, Chairman; Joe Mackey; Minister Joan Burton; Tony Jordan; Minister Leo Varadkar, and Tom Moore
Tony Jordan, Minister Joan Burton and Councillor Peggy Hamill
Phil O’Donnell, John Hayes, Francis O’Donnell and Jane Hayes
8 March 2012 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 29
in association with
GIFT OF SPORT: CELEBRATION AT ST ANN’S CHURCH
2012 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS FEBRUARY WINNERS IN ASSOCIATION WITH
STARof theMONTH
LESLEY O’HALLORAN THE South Dublin tennis ace has had a lengthy and prestigious career in the sport in this country, and brought two gold, a silver and a bronze medal back from the San Diego International Tennis Federation (ITF) Senior World championships, claiming Ireland’s first-ever team title in world tennis in the process.
Dublin gives thanks sport@gazettegroup.com
THE Annual Ecumenical Service of Thanksgiving for the Gift of Sport will be held in St Ann’s Church on Dawson Street on Sunday, March 25, at 7.30pm. Sixty-three years ago the first service of thanksgiving for the gift of sport took place in Dublin in 1949 in St Peter’s Church, Aungier Street, long since demolished. The idea for holding such a ser vice arose following discussions between the Revd
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THREE ROCK ROVERS
THE Rathfarnham side travelled to Malatya in south-eastern Turkey to claim promotion from the EuroHockey Indoor Club Champion’s Challenge II, getting back into the top tier of the indoor competition in Europe by virtue of a second-place position in the competition, achieved in spite of some tough breaks on their way to the tournament.
WHAT? It’s March already? February ended on a high with the showing of the Dublin Sports Awards show on Setanta Ireland, and keep an eye out for more repeats of the show throughout this month. Not only that, but there were some huge achievements on the world stage by our stars of the month. World number two at her age level, Lesley O’Halloran brought a handful of world championship medals back to the capital after her great success in San Diego. Equally far afield, Three Rock
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TEAMof theMONTH
Rovers achieved their Turkish delight and obtained promotion to the EuroHockey Indoor Club Champion’s Challenge I for the 2013 season.
Let us know! Let us know about your achievements in sport, so that the Gazette can tell the rest of Dublin — and give you, or your team, a chance to be one of our monthly stars. Contact us on 01 601 0240 or sport@gazettegroup.com to tell us all about your successes, and follow us on Facebook at facebook. com/gazettesportII.
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George Crummy and Bob Graves, the Irish r ugby international. Since then the ser vice has developed into an annual ecumenical event, held in the evenings, to allow for maximum attendance from the sporting fraternity The service continues to be the focus of thanksgiving for all men, women and young people whose lives have been enriched and blessed by the gift of sport, whether through active par ticipation, patronage or through the media of radio, tel-
evision or attendance at sporting events and fixtures. Over the years many prominent sportspersons of note have spoken at the service and, this year, the address will be given by Tommy Carr, the former Gaelic football player for Dublin and All-Star winner in1991. He has also managed a number of other county GAA teams since his retirement as a player. The collection is donated each year to a charity and, this year, Pieta House has been
chosen. Pieta is involved in assisting people at risk of suicide and self harm. Unfortunately, those who participate in sport are not immune from such tragedy and sadness as most recently highlighted by the death of Garry Speed in Britain. For further information, contact Robert Prole, member of the ASU (Association of Schools’ Unions ) Service Organising Committee by telephone on 01 2889565 or via email to rdeprole@eircom.net.
30 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 8 March 2012
GazetteSport Sport FastSport
Local sides draw to remain in cup mix PHOENIX succumbed to a late equaliser by Cork side Everton to deny them a place in the semi-finals of the FAI Intermediate Cup. Gareth Cooney’s penalty had put the Scribblestown side on terms at half-time after an early opening goal from the hosts. And things got even better for the ’Nix when Kevin Kennedy put them ahead 2-1. Everton had a player sent off, too, but were not to see their light dimmed and fought back to earn a second shot at this quarter-final date. Elsewhere, Verona stayed in the hunt too as they held high-flying Killester United 0-0 after Dave Pender produced a fine performance to keep a clean sheet for the Blanch side. Lee Cummins went closest to stealing a result for the Dublin 15 side while Darragh Kavanagh had an effort taken off the line to ensure parity remained and a replay will ensue.
SOCCER: YOUNG SIDE DRAW TO LEAGUE HIGH-FLYERS, GLEBE
Alex Santa Maria, Conor Delaney, and Conor Watt in action for Castleknock Celtic who defeated Shamrock Celtic in the NDSL U-9B division
Celtic register good results I sport@gazettegroup.com
IN THE Metropolitan Under-15 league, Castleknock Celtic’s girls kept their good run going in a very blustery Malahide Castle. Despite playing against the wind in the first half, Celtic put Malahide on the back foot from the start. It was not long before the goal arrived from a long throw-in that caused all sorts of confusion in the Malahide box. Leah Byrne reacted quickest to get a touch on the ball, which found its way over the keeper and into the net
to open the scoring for the visitors. C a s t l e k n o c k we r e unlucky not to be further ahead at half time, but, in the second half, the Celtic girls had the wind at their backs, but could not find their way past an outstanding Malahide keeper who pulled off save after save to keep the score respectable for the home side. With such a narrow lead, the Castleknock girls had to keep fully focused at the back, and there were a couple of minor scares that were dealt with by keeper, Naoise McAloon, and
Mullins makes mark: Local player for Dubs CASTLEKNOCK dual-code star Leah Mullins was one of the players who helped Dublin’s Under-16 ladies’ footballers to an emphatic victory over Kildare in their opening Leinster championship tie last weekend. Leah was one of the top performers, scoring 3-2 as the Jackies powered to a final tally of 9-19 to 2-4 against their opponents.
her defence. Castleknock saw out the game in what were extremely difficult conditions and still have their 100% record for 2012 intact.
Other results Elsewhere, in the DDSL U-12C, Castleknock Celtic secured a hard-fought 4-2 victory against a very good Parkvale team. A f ter drawing 2-2 earlier in the season, Celtic deserved all three points this time around, playing some great football. Goals from Ayoub Khennache and Cian Robinson sealed a valu-
able win which leaves Castleknock joint second in the league table. There were also great individual performances from Conor O’Leary, Keelin McEntee and man-of-the-match Franklin Izundu. In thee DDSL Under13A1, Celtic reasserted their title credentials with a very impressive 4-0 away win over Celbridge Town. Padraig Collins had put them on their way with a penalty before Ruari Paton recorded a brace, and Max Trigub completed the scoring. Celtic have dropped only four points in this
season’s campaign and are well positioned to make their title challenge in the coming weeks. H o w e v e r, i n t h e NDSL Under-10 Premier, Celtic fell to a 2-1 defeat to Woodlawn., despite a belter from Leigh Reilly. F r o m a t h r ow- i n , John Kane played a ball out left to Leigh who swivelled on to his right before executing an excellent finish with his right foot past the Woodlawn keeper. Woodlaw n took the points with an excellent strike in the second half.
8 March 2012 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 31
in association with
HURLING: PALMERSTOWN TAKE CHANCES TO WIN
.
CLUB NOTICEBOARD CASTLEKNOCK Our clubhouse appeal has com-
110 1008.
menced. Please log onto the web-
CHFC is offering cardiac screen-
site for more info castleknock.net/
ing service to males and females,
fundraising, or call Pearse 086 247
aged from 14 to 35, at a cost of €45
8961.
per person. If you are interested,
Congratulations to Jean Luc Cuel who won the club’s lotto jackpot of €8400 last Thursda y night in Brady’s. The Carpenter Off-Licence & Wine Shop, in conjunction with Castle-
contact secretary@castleknock. net or text 086 102 296. Our 2012 club calendar is now available to purchase for only €5 in the club shop, open every Saturday in Somerton 10 to 11.30am.
knock Hurling and Football Club,
Juvenile disco for 9 to 12-year-
would like to invite you to our Wine
olds from 7 to 9pm on March 16
Fair evening on March 14.
in CCC: Contact Cepta Igoe 087
Club Mass is Saturday, March 10, in Laurel Lodge Church at 6:30pm. All welcome. Signs surrounding the main pitch
6991976. Lotto jackpot now at €2,000 with the next draw in Kavanagh’s on March 8.
in Somerton are now on sale. For
2012 registrations are now due.
more information on how to get
Form can be downloaded from web-
your sign seen, contact Charlie 085
site.
ST BRIGID’S St Pat’s Palmerstown showed composure to pip St Oliver Plunkett’s in their recent encounter
Plunkett’s pipped as St Pat’s take tie AHL DIVISION 2
St Pat’s Palmerstown St Oliver Plunkett’s
2-13 2-12
I sport@gazettegroup.com
COMETH the hour, cometh Shane Stapleton. In a dramatic end-game, the Dublin senior star held his nerve to hit a 60-metre free six minutes into injury time to get St Pat’s, Palmerstown off to a winning start to the season. For Plunkett’s, it was heartache after an epic fightback saw them recover a four-point deficit only to succumb to a hotlycontested final free. It left neither side overly content on the final whistle, when Plunkett’s were left deflated at their lastditch demise, while Pat’s — targeting a concerted push for the title in this competition — lamented a lack-lustre early season performance. The wind played its part, working measurably in the visitors’ favour in the first period. But they were rocked by an early
Aidan Glennon point and Des Rushe’s goal. But a Plunkett’s goal from Oisin Boland, and a couple of Shane Bonfil points, had them level and they controlled affairs for much of the first half as Finn Dunleavy bossed the middle, and Patrick Bergin roamed well around the defensive 40. Scores from the lively youngster Boland, as well as a couple of Stu Mullen frees, kept them ticking over, but they were pegged back in the 22nd minute, when Stapleton’s shot was saved by Joseph McDonnell but only as far as Glennon. Stapleton’s second free levelled at 2-3 to 1-6 but Plunkett’s scored the last three points of the half for a small advantage. The strength of the breeze predictably saw a change in fortunes, but Pat’s started the half with three wides before Stapleton took control. He clipped a pair of 65s and a free in the 48th minute.
Chris Dolan’s excellent over-the-shoulder score from Lee Dunne’s cross put Pat’s in front. Mullen eventually got Plunkett’s first score of the half with nine minutes of normal time left but Glennon countered instantly. And Stapleton tacked on a truly brilliant sideline from 40-metres out on the left to start a run of points that brought the hosts to the brink of victory. Stapleton’s eighth point – a fine effort as he wheeled away into the crowd on the right – put four in it with the clock ticking past the hour and victory looked assured. But a couple of inju-
ries and delays prior to close-in frees pushed the final whistle back. Mullen cleared one of those to get within a goal and they won the next phase of play. Ian Franzoni dropped the sliotar into the danger zone, wreaking havoc, and the scramble broke Niall Murray’s way to net, all square at 2-12 each. There was one last throw of the dice when the puck-out made it to midfield Barry O’Hanlon who was impeded and while Plunkett’s contested the decision, Stapleton lined up the target and split the posts for the winning point.
DEEPEST sympathies this week to the Donnelly and O’Reilly families on their recent losses.
footballers also. Round 2 of AFL league fixtures this Saturday and Sunday.
Congratulations to junior camogie
Tradesmen and volunteers are
player, Patrina Peacock, and senior
still needed for work on our new
footballer, Conor Moran, on their
gym. If you can spare a few hours,
marriage, celebrated last week. A
email martincahill1@gmail.com.
lifetime of happiness to you both from all in the club. Well done to Philip Ryan, who scored 1-2 for the Dublin U-21s in their win over Wexford. A mixed weekend for our adult hurlers, with our junior hurlers
Well done to all those who helped collect over 350 phones for our new AED, which we will receive this week. Club lotto is still € 15,000 and takes place in the Roselawn Inn this Thursday.
beating Crumlin, while our senior
New players are always welcome,
and inter hurlers were both nar-
please contact club coach, Paul on
rowly edged out by Vincent’s and
0879154748 or info@stbrigidsgaa.
Crokes respectively.
com.
Good wins for our inter 2 football-
For instant club updates, make
ers and our U-16, U-14, U-13 camogie
sure you are following us on Face-
teams and U-16 Division 1 ladies
book and Twitter!
GARDA/WESTMANSTOWN THE intermediates had good win in
Training on Monday at Parkwest and
cup away to St Finian’s, Newcastle,
Wednesday at Westmanstown both
on Sunday morning. They are back
sessions at 8pm.
to league action next weekend with a
Well done to Westmanstown Gaels
home fixture against St Vincent’s at
U-8s, 9s and 12s who all won against
Westmanstown on Sunday morning
St Mark’s, St Patrick’s and Ballybod-
at 10.30am.
en respectively.
The junior 1s are also at home next
The girls were in action, too, with
Sunday at 11am against Kilmacud
the U-15s winning against Foxrock
Crokes in the league. Please come
Cabinteely while the U-12s played
out and support both teams.
their first competitive game ever and
Training continues on Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7.30pm. The ladies have a challenge match Saturday away to Kilcock at 12 noon.
lost by a point to Robert Emmets. Nursery training every Saturday from 10am in Westmanstown Sports Complex. Everyone is welcome!
Follow GazetteSport on Facebook and Twitter, and at www.gazettegroup.com
ALL OF YOUR CASTLEKNOCK SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31
LITTLE WONDERS: Castleknock
Celtic’s underage sides exude promise P30
MARCH 8, 2012
FEBRUARY FAVES: Dublin Sports Awards winners announced P29
I castleknocksport@gazettegroup.com
IT IS a case of better the devil you know for Lucan United and Phoenix after they were paired once again in the FAI Senior Cup at this week’s draw. The two clubs played out an epic fourth-round duel over the course of two matches when Lucan defied the league rankings to tie 1-1 with the ’Nix in Scribblestown, with Mark Rutherford cancelling out John Brophy’s effort on a frosty Friday night. But the Sunday Senior side won the replay to reach the last eight of the FAI Intermediate Cup, a competition in which they are still up and running, following an initial draw with Cork side, Everton. In reaching that advanced stage of the intermediate competition, it earned both clubs a Senior Cup berth. For Lucan, it opens up another shot at a giant-killing in their first ever foray into the most prestigious cup competition in the country, and it is one which club secretary, Noel Shanahan, has gratefully received. “We can’t say we are disappointed,” he
told GazetteSport. “We know what we are up against having played them twice, and we went very close and had the chance to beat them. “Mark Rutherford took the penalty in the replay and their keeper saved it. Had that gone in, we probably would have won the game. But we are quite confident going out against them again. “They are a senior division side, and you look at the results up there and they are all quite close; there’s not a lot between them. “It means we don’t have to look at another team because we know what they are like. That’s the upside of it. “The whole thing about it is that it is good to be in the competition. That’s the bottom line. It really doesn’t matter, we just go out and do our best.” Set for the weekend of April 1, conditions at Scribblestown are likely to be much more amenable this time around and Shanahan said they could play a part. “The time of the season is going the right way but, hopefully, it won’t be too windy. They’ve got the pitch over there
Ray Kearns and Tadhg Murphy, from Phoenix, at the FAI Ford Cup first-round draw
and that to contend with. If we play as well as we did the last day, even if we bring them back to Airlie, it will be an interesting match.” For Phoenix, Tuesday’s draw in Abbotstown – conducted by FAI President Paddy McCaul and former Shamrock Rovers, Derry City and Shelbourne star
Mick Neville – also saw their potential inter semi-final opponent revealed. Another Cork side, Avondale, lie in wait in the final four of that competition. Verona go to Cherry Orchard in the senior cup first round and could also face a date with them in the inter if they get past the rising tide of Killester United.
GazetteSPORT
Phoenix face Lucan in FAI again