Castleknock GAZET TE FREE
RECYCLE THIS COPY. KEEP DUBLIN TIDY.
YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER
INSIDE: Opinion piece asks why are our TDs paid so highly? Page 6
April 5, 2012
MARKING A DECADE: St Patrick’s
National School anniversary See Page 8
Followers of fashion: Club fundraiser MANY PEOPLE gathered at the
Football: Castleknock teams keep up winning ways Page 31
Castleknock Hotel recently in support of the Localise Youth Club’s annual fashion show. Now in its ninth year, the club put on a stylish event showing the best in fashion this season. Prior to the show, the club raised an impressive €25k. All proceeds will also go to St Francis Hospice. Pictured at the event are Tahrah Khalil, Alexandra Wall and Grace Lun. See Gallery next week
Soccer: Celtic U-11s claim place in cup final Page 30
ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ......................8 BUSINESS .................... 19 MOTORS ....................... 20 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26
Free land gifted for Children’s Hospital Developer offers site at Phoenix Park race course
I LAURA WEBB
AN eight-acre site in the heart of Castleknock, has been offered to the Government for free by a Dublin-based developer for the proposed National Children’s Hospital. Flynn and O’Flaherty has offered Minister for Health
and Children, Dr James Reilly, and the Government, the free site located at the former Phoenix Park race course, which already has planning permission for a building up to nine storeys. The developers are confident that, if the Government takes them up on the offer, the
vital children’s hospital could be built by 2016 because planning permission is already in place, there are no impediments to construction and it is located away from any residential development. They also believe the hospital could be delivered for less this way. Full Story on Page 2
2 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5 April 2012
PROJECT: DEVELOPERS’ GIVEAWAY FOR GOVT
R1
PROJECT Restoring walled gardens to their former glory
Free site is offered for hospital I LAURA WEBB
news@gazettegroup.com
THE Government has been offered a free eightacre site in Castleknock by a Dublin-based developer for the proposed National Children’s Hospital. Flynn and O’Flaherty has offered Minister for Health and Children, Dr James Reilly, and the Government, the free site located at the former Phoenix Park racecourse, which already has planning permission for up to nine-storey buildings. In a statement to the Gazette, the developers outlined why the site is an ideal location for the hospital, including access, as it is situated beside the N3, while the M50 is just minutes away. It is easily accessed through public transport with a Quality Bus Corridor, served by eight bus routes, a railway station with 95 trains stopping daily and close to major hospitals across Dublin. The site is part of a much larger site zoned for development, with a significant quantum of development established by planning permission
from An Bord Pleanala. The developers are confident that the hospital can be delivered by 2016 because planning permission is already in place, there are no impediments to construction and it is located away from any residential development. They also believe the hospital could be delivered at considerably less cost than its current price. A spokesman for Flynn and O’Flaherty said: “The availability of a free site on established development land, with sufficient areas to facilitate economical construction, providing adequate car parking and space for future or parallel symbiotic development, not only makes the site ideal for development of the hospital, but will ensure the project, as a whole, offers significant value for money. “The site, if chosen, will have the capacity to develop a world-class National Children’s Hospital and will have the physical capacity to have in-patient and daycare beds with an emergency department, the operating theatres.”
Cllr Michael O’Donovan with FCC officials John Harrington and Jimmy Connolly
Students start work on Shackleton Gardens HORTICULTURE students from Institute of Technology Blanchardstown have commenced work at the former Shackleton Gardens in order to restore the once famous walled gardens to their former glory. This could turn it into a major tourist attraction in the area with people coming from far and wide to view its rare species of plants. Fingal County Council had been in talks with ITB for some time to discuss a project with its horticulture students, to offer them some handson experience at the gardens. During a recent area committee meeting, Labour councillor Michael O’Donovan
asked management at FCC to report on the council’s interaction with the horticulture department at the local college regarding Shackleton Gardens, now known as the Beechpark walled gardens. In a report, a spokesperson for the council said there have been detailed discussions to provide practical experience to horticulture students in the restoration of the walled garden at Beechpark. According to the spokesperson, arrangements have been put in place, and the first group of students have commenced work in the gardens. The students are working with the council’s
senior horticulturist, John Harrington. Local volunteers from the area, who have horticulture experience, have also been sharing their expertise. Simmering
“This is very good news. It has been simmering since last year and it is great to see them on board and working in the gardens now to help accelerate the restoration of the gardens,” Cllr O’Donovan told the Gazette. “Our parks department have a very specific schedule of what to do, so it’s great to have skilled students be part of it. Great experience for them too,” he added. Fine Gael councillor Kieran Dennison said
the council has requested grant funding from the Department of Tourism. “I gather the gardens will be of international significance and it could be very important from a tourist point of view. People do travel across the world to see exceptional plants and that is what the team want to put back into the gardens, restore it with the rare plant species it was once famous for. There are exceptional plants being put in from all around the world.” According to Dennison, this is the finished piece of the puzzle for Beechpark, which already has allotments, a playground and football pitches for the community to enjoy. The council is
also looking into putting in a small coffee room near the garden, and is in talks with a local resident about it. “We don’t have anything like this on this side of the county. In Dublin North there is the Malahide Demesne so it will be great to have this here again,” Cllr Dennison added. The Victorian Walled Gardens at Beechpark were established by explorer, Ernest Shackleton. He sourced exotic plants from near and far, all over the world, during his years of travelling. The gardens were open to the public up until the late 1980’s. Once restoration is complete, the famous gardens will once again be open for all to see.
Porterstown Link Road delayed I LAURA WEBB
news@gazettegroup.com
WORK on the much-anticipated Porterstown Link Road has been delayed because of the installation of pedestrian traffic lights, which were not part of the original plan. That’s according to Castlek n o c k c o u n c i l l o r, P e g g y Hamill. Since last August, residents have seen construction work continue on new roads at Luttrellstown and Porterstown. It was originally planned to
complete the work by the end of March, but that has now been extended with a view to finishing it in the next week or so. Speaking to the Gazette this week, councillor Hamill said it has taken longer than expected because of the installation of much-needed pedestrian traffic lights. “There were changes to the original plan to introduce traffic lights on Luttrellstown Road. Changes had to be made in the interest of safety. “It will be a busy route and it
was necessary to provide it for the two schools. “There will be a huge increase on traffic. If people know they can avoid the level crossing they will use the new road, so it was thought to be safer to introduce pedestrian lighting. “This obviously had some bearing on the delay, but we are hopeful it won’t be delayed for much longer.” W hen contacted by The Gazette, a spokeswoman for the council said works on the Porterstown Link Road should
be complete “quite soon”. Councillor Hamill went on to say that the opening of the new road is dependent on a new school building being constructed for Luttrellstown Community College, which is due to open in September, 2013. “It [the road] has to be up and running before work on the new school can commence, that was a condition of the school. The existing road was not capable of any more traffic, so it is vital that this road is finished as soon as possible,” Cllr Hamill said.
5 April 2012 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 3
EVENT Family’s gratitude for father’s treatment
Fundraiser to say thank you to hospice I LAURA WEBB
WHEN a family member tells you they want to spend their last days in a hospice it can be a hard decision to support, but that can change quickly when you witness firsthand the amazing care staff and nurses provide for their patients. Marisa Macari and her family felt that way when their father, Peter Vecchio, made the difficult decision to go to a hospice. Peter was diagnosed with terminal lung cancer early last December. He already had throat cancer and had to have a tracheotomy. Initially he want-
ed to be at home, but as the illness progressed he chose to die in St Francis Hospice, Raheny. Now Marisa wants to say thank you by holding a fundraiser in the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Blanchardstown. “Myself and my family were very sceptical about that [going to a hospice] and very scared because we really didn’t comprehend the meaning of a hospice. Once in the hospice we found he was more relaxed, and they kept him so comfortable. The nurses and staff there couldn’t have done more while he was there,” Marisa told the Gazette. “I was so impressed
with what they do. You really don’t realise unless you have someone close to you there. The care, the compassion and respect the nurses had for my dad and family was truly amazing,” she said. Peter passed away on February 13, 2012, and, according to Marisa, the decision to spend his last days in the hospice was the right one. “It was the best decision for him. He was scared at home; in the hospice he felt secure and relaxed. He made the right decision.” When Marisa found out that the majority of funding for the St Francis Hospice in Raheny
EVENT: SHOPPING CENTRE
Plenty to do this Bank Holiday
Peter Vecchio and Marisa Macari
and Blanchardstown is through continued community fundraising, she knew she had to help and is hosting a fundraising night. “We want people to be aware of what is really involved in a hospice. You don’t realise that the hospice is mostly run by fundraising, charity work, by voluntary work.
“With the recession, the HSE has cut back on funding them, so it’s detrimental to raise money elsewhere. If we don’t help the hospice now, we could lose them and we don’t want to lose them,” she added. Marisa has organised a dinner dance in the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Blanchardstown on April
23. Ticket holders will be treated to a four-course dinner followed by music and dancing. A speaker from the hospice will be there to talk about the work they do. This event is strictly cocktail wear and it starts at 7.30pm sharp. Tickets for the event can be purchased at Shamon Boutique on 8220588.
CELEBR ATE Easter with the Blanchardstown Centre and its eggcellent event line up for shoppers this April bank holiday. On Saturday, April 7, there is a bunch of entertainment and activities for the family to enjoy from 12 noon to 4pm. The Make and Do arts and crafts activity area is open from 12 noon to 3pm. On the main stage, level 2 outside Debenhams, there will a fun family disco, a mad hatter magic show, balloon modelling and facepainting. The best disco dancers will be in with a chance to win an Easter egg which will be presented by the Easter bunny.
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CLOSURE TD calls for consultation with local residents
Section of park road may be closed permanently
I LAURA WEBB
castleknock@gazettegroup.com
A DUBLIN West politician has warned that any decision to permanently close a section of the main route road through the Phoenix Park should only be made after consultation with local residents. A section of the main route road through the Phoenix Park will be closed to motorists this Easter weekend to
make way for the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party on Sunday. However, the OPW are considering closing it off on a permanent basis to encourage more recreational use. Local TD, Patrick Nulty (Lab), said he is “sceptical” of the OPW’s proposal to permanently close a section of Chesterfield Avenue at the weekend. “I think there should be serious consultation with
residents, especially in Castleknock, if this is going to be a permanent thing. It is temporary now in the run-up to the summer. “It will only lengthen commuter times for people trying to get to work. At peak times, morning or rush hour in the evening, it needs to remain open. I understand it is important to encourage more people to use the park for recreational use, but I would be
cautious about it. I’m not in favour of closing it permanently. Let’s see what happens but no permanent decision should be made without full details being shown to residents,” he said. The section of Chesterfield Avenue closing is between the Phoenix roundabout and the Mountjoy roundabout. The trial pedestrian-only area will commence from April 7. A spokesperson for the
OPW said it is part of the ongoing management of the Phoenix Park and will facilitate greater public recreational use of this area. “It will allow pedestrians to cross Chesterfield Avenue safely and utilise the amenities on both sides of the Park. “The benefits, or impact, to the public will be closely monitored and, in order to minimise disturbance to
Park gets set for a mad party GET together for the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party and join all the characters from Alice in Wonderland for an afternoon of fun. As part of the Phoenix Park 350 celebrations, The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party will take place along Chesterfield Avenue between the Phoenix and Mountjoy roundabouts on Easter Saturday, April 7 between 12 noon and 4 pm. There will be some delicious food available from the Food Village, follow the white rabbit on an Easter Egg hunt and paint roses with the Queen of Hearts, just some of the great activities happening that day. Admission is free and all are welcome. For further information for what’s on in the park this spring/summer, log onto www.phoenixpark.ie Meanwhile, Dublin Zoo is celebrating the Easter Bank Holiday weekend with special talks about the adorable birds and chicks at the zoological gardens. Each day, from Friday to Sunday, between 11am and 5pm, zookeepers will be on hand to talk about the zoo’s birds’ eggs and chicks. There will also be facepainting and arts and crafts. An Easter Bunny Disco will take place throughout the weekend, making it an egg-cellent weekend for all. For further information on what’s on at the Zoo log onto www.dublinzoo.ie
commuters, the closure will take effect from 10pm on Friday evenings to 10pm Sunday evenings,” the spokesperson said. Diversions will be in place for motorists with signs displayed. The specific objectives and actions relating to the restriction of unnecessary and/or through traffic at weekends are recommendations within the Phoenix Park Conservation Plan 2011.
Campaign: Action on hearing loss GAY Byrne is pictured here with Tom Freeman, from Castleknock, at the recent launch of Hearing Action Week – a national awareness campaign conducted by Hidden Hearing in association with Irish Deaf Society encouraging people to take action on their hearing loss. Log onto www. hearingactionweek.ie for more information.
EXERCISE: CASTLEKNOCK COMMUNITY COLLEGE TO PARTICIPATE IN EVENT
Students bid to beat the bleep and get their fitness levels up I LAURA WEBB castleknock@gazettegroup.com
CASTLEKNOCK students are improving their fitness levels by taking part in a Beat the Bleep challenge that has students from all, over the country running from post to post in an effort to get hearts racing and fitness levels up. First and second-year students from Castleknock Community College have been testing their fitness levels for the past couple of weeks as part of the RTE Radio 1 John Murray Show and Dublin City University
challenge. The show has teamed up with professor Niall Moyna, Head of the School Health and Human Performance at DCU, and fitness advisor to Dublin GAA club, to challenge students from secondary schools nationwide and beat their previously recorded class average fitness levels over a sixweek period. The Beat the Bleep method involves continuous r unning between two lines 20 metres apart in time to recorded beeps. The student’s score is the level and number of 20-metre shuttles reached before
they were unable to keep up with the ‘bleep’. The school to most improve its fitness wins the challenge. Castleknock Community College has always encouraged students to stay active, and last week they invited former athlete turned politician, Senator Eamonn Coghlan, to speak to students about the benefits of a healthy, fit lifestyle. PE teacher, Paul Brogan, said he was delighted to have Eamonn down to chat to the students. “He was great. We had an extended second -year assembly and he
talked to over 200 students about his life and what he experienced as a kid growing up, compared to kids now, the lack of activity. He spoke about his running career and went on to talk about the importance of exercise and the problems you can encounter if you don’t exercise. We brought in the first-years then and he spoke to them too. He was very good and very well received by the kids,” he said. According to Paul, fitness levels are improving, thanks to the Beat the Bleep test and a morning fitness workout
running at the school. “The professor set a level for the kids to get and we have been running ever since. Also, what we have been doing is a lot of fitness work in the school, aerobics, circuit training, and in the mornings we have kids coming in off their own bat, and they have been doing a fitness programme five days a week. There has been a huge increase in their fitness levels. “We found that, in the last ten years, with computers and things, fitness levels have gone down. We are trying to target kids who would
go home and play on the computer, and their only activity is PE or a bit of soccer, its only a couple of hours a week, that isn’t good enough to maintain a healthy body. “Most of our kids coming in the morning aren’t part of a team, and they just want to get fitter. I don’t find obesity is a huge problem, but certainly lack of fitness is definitely one; this is our little way of trying to push and improve students’ fitness which will help them in the long run,” Paul said. Full Gallery next week
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TRANSPORT
Real-time bus info stands placed THE roll out of real-time bus information stands in Dublin 15 is continuing, with 19 being placed around the area. On behalf of the N a t i o n a l Tr a n s p o r t Authority, Dublin City Council is rolling out the installation of realtime passenger information in the greater Dublin area. A total of 39 have been identified across Fingal with 19 located in the Castleknock/Mulhuddart area. No timescale has been put in place and a spokesperson for Fingal County Council said “work is ongoing”. “Each location requires its own individual electricity supply, the lead-in time can be significant and depends on the local conditions and availability for supply,” said the spokesperson
OPINION Bringing political pay level to real world
It’s time our TDs got Real Pay for their job AARON MCKENNA
WHEN Alexander the Great led his army across the ancient world, he ate when and what his soldiers ate, slept when they slept and led them from the front. When Leo the Lion, and his colleagues in Dail Eireann, travel to work they claim tax free expenses no ordi-
nary person is allowed. The salaries paid to our politicians bear no relation to what similarly responsible individuals get in the real world. Compare
Compare the pay of a Government minister to that of your average company managing director: The minister earns 41% more. What does a min-
ister, who already has a professional staff of civil servants looking after the department, do that deserves that premium? TDs earn as much a s s e n i o r c o m p a ny directors, individuals with real commercial responsibilities. Most TDs show up in the Dail to vote as they’re told by party whips and mind the vote in their constituency. It may be mentioned that, in the private sector, bonuses are paid on top of basic pay. But bonuses are rarely paid when a company is in financial receivership, or while substantial cutbacks are being made. When our new Government came to power it reduced the pay of ministers. Rather than a pay cut, this was less of a pay increase for those being promoted. The Taoiseach still earns more than the Prime Minister of Britain and a host of other leaders of nations far larger and less bust than Ireland. There have been many s i c ke n i n g m o m e n t s since the beginning of the crisis in 2008, but among the least edifying for our body politik was watching them fight for their own pay, expenses and pensions when Brian Lenihan proposed a change to the regime. Politicians were rubber stamping budgets that stripped SNAs from schools, pensions from blind people and nurses from hospitals. But, at the first mention of vouched expenses or an
Aaron McKenna, organiser of the Real Pay Petition
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‘The proposal to reduce the pay of politicians is not based on a race to the bottom. This campaign is benchmarking politicians against real work done in the real world’
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attack on their salaries and pensions, the backs were up. Our new Government has not lifted a finger to the gravy train. The Taoiseach, Minister for Finance and Minister for Public Sector Expenditure and Reform, are among those who don’t provide receipts for their expenses. Revenue would treat any ordinar y person claiming expenses without receipts as a fraud, trying to hide income. Revenue also states that no person may receive tax-free expenses for travelling to their place of work.
Commute
Dublin TDs receive €12,000 a year to travel to Leinster House, conveniently located in Dublin 2. If you live in a suburb and commute to the city centre you might be paying over €1,000 a year for a tax-saver commuter ticket. Our local TDs claim that much every month. There are some, such as Joe Higgins, who say they only take the average wage. This is of no advantage to the taxpayer as they give the balance of their salary to spend campaigning for votes.
These socialist fighters aren’t shy about taking expenses: Patrick Nulty was entitled to claim the moment he was elected. Joe Higgins got €24,500 in 2011. Ministers claim the majority of their expenses via their departments, but both Joan Burton and Leo Varadkar are claiming over €1,000 a month from the Dail as well. The proposal to reduce the pay of politicians is not based on a race to the bottom. This campaign is benchmarking politicians against real work done in the real world. It’s time for politicians to take a fair share. If you agree, sign the petition: RealPay.ie Aaron McKenna is the organiser of the Real Pay Petition. You can contact him via aaronmckenna.com, on 0858434246 or on twitter @ aaronmckenna
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EVENT St Patrick’s National School celebrate anniversary
Marking a decade Irish dancers ready to perform
HERE was plenty of reasons to celebrate at St Patrick’s National School recently on their 10th anniversary. With St Patrick as the patron saint of the school, it made the most of its celebrations. Students helped two artists brighten up the school by creating and painting murals on the wall around the building. As part of its celebrations, a concert with performances by students entertaining attendees was also held. Other events, included a special St Patrick’s Day parade on March 16, a family quiz organised by the Parents Association, and a special GAA workshop given by Kerry footballer, Colm Cooper, to name but a few.
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Dramaworks Dance Crew. Picture: Ania Sherlock
Fifth-class student Sean Lynch played Oliver Twist
Kirsten Walsh, Ruby Gear, Kendra Walsh, Niamh Andrews and
Fourth-class pupil Korina and second-
Laura O’Reilly
class pupil Bianca
Castleknock Community College students danced on the night. Laoise, Ellen, Laura, Ciara and Kendra
Fifth-class performer,
Ciara Lynam, Erica Foley and Sarah
Laura O’Reilly
Dornan
Performers from the Toni Martin Speech and Drama Group: Will, Robyn, Leila, Heidi, Isabella and Gara
Sixth-class performer Kendra Walsh
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EVENT Fr Peter McVerry Launches ITB Humanities Week
Bernadine Brady, from Mullahoran
Human Rights campaigner, Fr
and Laura Curtis, from Donaghmede
Peter McVerry
Nadine Fowler, from Finglas, Emma Kennedy, from Swords and Aislinn Higgins, from Finglas
Celebrating humanities UMAN Rights campaigner, Fr Peter McVerry, was on hand to launch ITB Humanities Week 2012 recently. This three-day event commenced with a Grand Children’s Rights Parade. This colourful and vibrant parade made its way throughout the college with students and the staff in the Humanities Department taking part. The parade was followed by the official opening
H
of ITB Humanities Week in the Sports Hall by Fr McVerry. Other events included talks, plays, and an address by Minister of Social Protection, Joan Burton, TD. There was also display stands and workshops on campus every day from Social and Communication Development Year 2 Students, student competitions and loads more for everyone’s enjoyment.
Lisa McCann from Rathoath, Lynn Hamilton from Ballyboughal, Swords, and Aisling Carter, from Celbridge
5 April 2012 GAZETTE 11
HEALTH Fundraiser for children
Citywest workers urged join fun event MORE than 5,000 workers at the Citywest Business Campus will take to the streets in aid of Barretstown Children’s Camp. Ireland legend Ronan O’Gara was on hand to announce the launch of the first annual CityWest Fun Walk, which takes place on Friday, April 27, at 1pm at Browns Barn, Citywest. Barretstow n are encouraging all staff that work in Citywest and beyond to get out and walk, run or jog the route. Stephen Campbell, Citywest campus manager, is very excited about the upcoming fundraising event. “We are delighted to support this Citywest Campus Fun Walk in aid of Barretstown. We
Noah Quinn and Ronan O’Gara at the launch of the Citywest Fun Walk for Barretstown
are looking forward to seeing a large number of the campus community out on the day enjoying a walk around the landscaped areas of the cam-
pus,” he said. The route will begin at Brown’s Barn, then head over the N7 Bridge, through the campus and along the Luas line, back up the main road and will finish back at Brown’s Barn. To register, log on to www.citywestfunwalk. org. There will be an online €10 registration fee, and all proceeds will go to Barretstown. Registration commences on the day, from 12pm, and all participants will get a free t-shirt and goodie bag on the day. Barretstown is a Kildare-based camp uniquely designed for children who have been affected by a serious illness, primarily cancer, and their families. Barretstown works to assist in the cancer
recovery process through activity-based therapy. Each year, approximately 1,900 children come to Barretstown to take part in its programmes of therapeutic recreation. The programmes build confidence, trust and selfesteem.
Survival In Ireland, five children are diagnosed with cancer every week. Due to the everimproving treatment process, childhood cancer survival rates will have increased to 90% by the end of this decade. To register, log on to www.citywestfunwalk. org, or contact Ciara Smullen or Liz Denieffe at citywest@barretstown. org; telephone 045 864 115.
EASTER: LIDL IS TOP OF THE CHOCS
Time for treats AFTER 40 days and 40 nights of desperately trying to keep the kids away from sweets, Lent is drawing to a close, and with that, the annual reward of an Easter egg feast. So, for anyone looking to stock up on delicious chocolate treats ,and even sweeter prices, it’s time to hop on down to Lidl, who have a whole range of sweet treats that won’t leave you hopping mad at the cost. They have lots of Easter goodies by Lidl’s delicious own brand, Favorina, to suit all tastes and budgets, including Favorina Chocolate Bunny or Chocolate Painted Bunny. For lots of little treats, go for a bag of goodies, like the Favorina crispy chocolate pralines– a firm favourite, thanks to their creamy and crisp fillings. So, hop along to Lidl to stock up on choco-
late and luxury food and drink items this Easter. For further information about Lidl’s Easter special offers, or to
locate your nearest Lidl store, log on to www. lidl.ie. Availablity is limited so shop early to avoid disappointment.
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GazettePETS PETS
Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA
THE FACTS: FELINE IMMUNODEFICIENCY VIRUS IS NOT A DEATH SENTENCE
Protect your cat from FIV HIS week I thought I’d write about a medical condition known as Feline Immunodeficiency Virus, or FIV. Officially diagnosed back in 1986, FIV is commonly associated with cats, a condition that often scares the wits out of concerned pet parents. So, with that in mind, I thought I’d do a sort of FIV 101 for cat parents; just in case any readers had a kitty that’s recently been diagnosed.
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Is FIV like HIV? It belongs in the same group as the Human Immunodeficiency Virus, or HIV, so it gets a lot of negative press and is often referred to as Feline Aids. Can I/the kids/my dog catch it from my
cat? No. It’s species specific. FIV cannot be transmitted to humans, or to any other animals, so please don’t stop giving your kitty love and attention just because she’s been diagnosed with the condition. How did my cat catch the virus? Ever heard of a cat fight? Well, that’s possibly how your kitty caught the virus. You see, the virus is present in the saliva and blood of infected cats, and although a very fragile virus, meaning it is unable to survive outside of the body making it difficult to pass from kitty to kitty; it can be passed through biting. If an infected cat bites an uninfected cat the virus is injected directly into the bloodstream of the
Older cats with FIV can be adopted, but it is wise to look after younger cats.
uninfected cat. However, if an uninfected cat bites an infected cat, the risk is lessened. Even though there is still the element of risk present. In this scenario, the virus is not directly injected straight into the blood stream… if that makes sense. The virus cannot be transmitted indirectly through food, feeding dishes, toys
or bedding, etc. Also, it’s worth knowing that there is no scientific proof the virus is passed through sexual contact but the male often grabs hold of the female’s neck with his teeth, puncturing the skin.
What are the signs of FIV? A blood test is needed
to ascertain infection so please do go to your vet who will best advise. However, raised lymph nodes, conjunctivitis, diarrhoea, gum inflammation, eye and nose discharge, etc., are just some of the things to watch out for. Bear in mind that some of these conditions can occur in uninfected cats that’ve been fed an improper diet, so you see, the signs vary and only your vet can properly diagnose. It is worth remembering, the virus will deplete certain white blood cells in your kitty, making her more susceptible to other infections. I cannot stress enough that if in doubt, visit your vet.
What is an infected cat’s life expectancy? Infected cats usually
retain their strong immunity for years following infection and it’s usually some years later when the symptoms begin to show, and most of them can be treated quite easily with prescribed medication. So, don’t worry, it is not a death sentence and an infected kitty, once managed by a vet, can live a happy, healthy lifespan. In fact, did you know, your cat is more likely to die as a result of a road accident than to have her life ended as a result of FIV?
How do I protect my cat? You could keep her indoors but possibly a tad dramatic. We would recommend you spay/neuter as it reduces the need to fight and wander. Want to adopt a HIV
kitty? HIV cats find it difficult to find new homes but, remember, these kitties are normal pets who deserve to be loved and cherished as much as uninfected ones. If you can provide a home with an enclosed garden, or cat run, then why not call into your local rescue shelter and give a HIV cat a chance. All she needs is love, regular veterinary check-ups, up-to-date vaccinations and a proper diet that includes vitamin supplements to help build her immune system. The information is a guideline only and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. For more information, contact your vet or log onto www.dspca.ie or email me at miriam.kerins@dspca.ie
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GazetteFITNESS FITNESS
Brought to you by Derry Temple
A ray of sun can make you fitter SPRING is here and the sun has started to shine! This is the time to come out of hibernation and shake off the winter blues. Now that the clocks have gone forward, we have longer evenings with more activity time. You can expect better weather too, which should encourage you to get outside and get active. The biggest benefit of getting our activity outdoors is that we can also get some much-needed sunshine. Sunshine and exercise cause the body to produce feel-good betaendorphins and serotonin that simply cannot be obtained from food (no matter how much chocolate you eat!). The other important
benefit is, after a long dark winter, you may be deficient in vitamin D, “the sunshine vitamin”. Our body’s primary means of obtaining vitamin D is through sun exposure and, since Ireland is located in a northerly latitude, it does not receive enough sun to provide vitamin D for large periods of the year. In recent times, vitamin D has come to the forefront of the nutrition world because of the numerous health benefits that have been associated with it. While we can get good sources of vitamin D from fish, such as salmon, sardines, tuna and also milk and eggs, the best source is natural UVB sunlight.
Vitamin D is crucial to the function and health of our bodies and low levels of vitamin D are implicated in several diseases. It has been historically proven and documented that adequate calcium intake can improve general bone health and decrease the risk of certain bone diseases that are more prevalent in later life. What many people don’t realise is that vitamin D is critical in the body’s ability to properly utilise calcium. Calcium absorption in the intestines actually requires vitamin D and, when its levels are deficient, calcium is not optimally absorbed even if there is enough of it in the diet.
personal trainer and pilates instructor
The keys to seeing signs of a stroke Taking in the sun isn’t just good for plants
If this is the case, then the body will mobilise calcium from the skeletal bones and release it into the bloodstream. This inevitably causes a loss of bone density and can lead to osteomalacia, osteopenia and, eventually, to osteoporosis. Bone health is an important health issue for people over 50 years of age and becomes an increasing concern as we age. Temple Training will
hold a free fat-loss workshop for Gazette readers on Tuesday, April 17 at 8pm in Le Cheile Community Centre, Donnycarney. This is an introduction to our “Body Design” course, which will empower you to “attain a lean body, healthy mind and an abundance of energy for life”. To secure your place simply e-mail us at info@templetrain ing and mention that you are a Gazette reader.
TEN THOUSAND Irish people have a stroke every year and around 2,000 of them die from stroke. The most common form of stroke occurs when the artery that supplies blood to the brain becomes blocked causing a part of the brain to be damaged. FAST
A handy guide to identifying signs of a stroke is FAST. Facial weakness – can they smile? Arm weakness – can they raise both arms?
Speech – can they speak clearly and understand you? Time to call 112 or 999 and ask for an ambulance. Speed
Speed is essential as stroke damages brain tissue. Two of the principal culprits that can lead to a blockage of the arteries are smoking and high cholesterol. You can have your c h o l e s t e r o l l e ve l checked at your local pharmacy or by your GP. With thanks to the staff of Lucan Village Pharmacy.
16 GAZETTE 5 April 2012
GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY
Edited by Laura Webb
Dare to bare your legs with a number of great treatments T FELT like summer last week – that feels a long time ago, already – and, for ladies across Dublin thinking of baring their legs in a great summer dress, or shorts, they should make sure they look the part whenever the good weather returns. We don’t often get a chance to bare our legs in Dublin, but when we do, we like to take full advantage of the sun’s rays.
I
In this dreary town, we can often neglect our legs and leave them hiding behind skinny jeans or black tights Letting them breathe in the open air means making legs look supersmooth, and there is no better place to start than waxing. Gazette Beauty came across Wax in the City – a leading international waxing-only studio located in South William
Street. It opened last week and there is already a buzz about the top-quality treatments it supplies. Specialising in hair removing, it uses highquality natural beeswax, and skin is treated with Hamamelis water before and after hair removal. No wax strips are used, which makes it fast, gentle and leaving skin feeling smooth for two to four weeks.
Prepare to have perfect pins for summer – or any time of year – with a number of luscious leg beauty products
The wax used by Wax in the City is suitable for all hair removal, from face to toes, and is great for sensitive skin. Once the hair has been removed, keep your legs smooth and supple with a great moisturiser. One such product is Weleda’s Aloe Vera Body
Lotion. This product lightly moisturises and keeps the skin smooth. Ingredients such as organic jojoba oil, apricot kernel oil and organic shea butter support the skin’s moisture balance, and gives off an amazing aromatic smell. This product is avail-
able at Nourish health and beauty stores, and selected health stores and pharmacies nationwide. Once complete, sun worshippers can decide whether they want to go all natural with their bare legs, or add a bit of colour by using their favourite tan product. A good instant tan is Karora Instant Tan washoff (rrp €14.99). This tan is not only suitable for skin-bronzing legs, it can also be
used on the face and body. A great fau x glow helps to disguise cellulite and blemishes, and gives a fashionable tan that many have been already spotted with on the spring-summer catwalks. So, whenever it happens, with these great products and services you’ll be all set to pick out your favourite sun dress or shorts and show off those fab legs when the sun beams back.
Max Factor Miracle Touch CReamy Blush; €10.79
A Blush you’ll welcome to see on your glowing face CREATE a fresh face look by adding a pop of colour to your skin with MaxFactor’s very own creamy blush. MaxFactor Miracle Touch Creamy Blush is designed to bring fresh dew to cheeks. It glides on easily, and leaves cheeks with a subtle hint of colour, ideal for a fresh spring/summer look. This cream blush is a softly pigmented, nongreasy creamy formula that transforms at the touch, blending easily and evenly over skin. The result is a sheer blush of colour across the cheeks, giving a fresh, natural glow, which can be built up easily for a more dramatic evening look. Max Factor Miracle Touch Creamy Blush is available nationwide in four shades – Soft Copper, Soft Murano, Soft Candy and Soft Pink – and are priced at €10.79 RRP each.
5 April 2012 GAZETTE 17
18 GAZETTE 5 April 2012
GazetteMUSIC MUSIC FastTunes with Radio Nova’s Dee Woods A household charge for our homes, sky-rocketing petrol prices for our cars...and now our musical ears are getting a bashing. Sonisphere 2012 in the UK was billed to be the rockingest yet, with headliners Queen (with Adam Lambert) being joined by Kiss, Faith No More and The Darkness. Then last week, organisers literally pulled the plug saying the “challenging year was more difficult than anticipated”, which presumably translates to spiralling costs outweighing poor ticket sales. With Glastonbury on a year’s break and Oxegen taking a breather here, it’s a chilling thought that the future of the big music festival could be as unpredictable as an Irish summer. With more music being sold over cyberspace than in shops, is it possible that promoters in the already-strained music industry are bowing out of staging huge, outdoor gigs? Could we be telling our wide-eyed grandchildren legendary tales of overpriced burgers, wearing shorts in the rain and paying hundreds of Euro to sleep in a mucky field with thousands of fellow music fanatics - just for the love of music? I hope not, that’s something everyone should get to experience for themselves. Although we have to look at the plastic glass as being half full, 2012 does have Electric Picnic in Stradbally (The Cure, The Killers), the Rory GallagherTribute Festival in Ballyshannon (Horslips, Mick Taylor) and The Sea Sessions in Bundoran (Happy Mondays, Kaiser Chiefs) to name but a few. Or if a mucky field doesn’t do it for you, what about partying with some Easter bunnies on dry land? Listen to Radio Nova this week for your chance to win a trip to the Playboy Mansion’s Rock n Roll Fantasy Party with Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler in May. Listen to Dee Woods from Radio Nova every weeknight from 7pm to 12am on 100.3FM
REVIEW: THREE DIVERSE RELEASES AHEAD OF THE BREAK
Magic number for preEaster goodies I ROB HEIGH
LIKE a candy store display, there are far too many goodies on offer in the music scene at the moment. So, which are the fun-filled Easter eggs and which are the empty vessels? First up is the return of trance-dance duo, Orbital, with their first album since 2004, Wonky. The record represents their first recorded work since their return to the live arena in 2009 after their retirement from the business after the Blue Album in 2004. Their revival showed how much they had been missed, as festival-goers and fans flocked to their appearances, and now, eight years since their last release, they have returned with Wonky. Orbital always demonstrated a more considered approach to their recorded output and live shows in comparison to the more Pavlovian mechanics of
stadium house acts like Chemical Brothers, and that’s a trend they continue on Wonky. There are some fine grooves on offer here, certainly, but they are inlaid within Orbital’s acid-inf lected melodies and electronic riffs that show old habits die hard — one foot remains in the chill-out space, one on the dancefloor, but the headlights are still firmly aimed at the stars. Next out of the shiny wrapper is Noctourniquet, the sixth album from The Mars Volta, the band, who rose from the ashes of one of the most influential and thrilling bands of the last 15 years, At The Drive In. With ATDI’s Omar and Cedric driving the creative agenda, and with the diversity of the ideas, soundscapes and melodies colliding, Noctourniquet is the sound of a million ideas colliding all at once. This isn’t rock as you
Orbital, Estelle and The Mars Volta make for an eclectic trio
know it, it’s not punk, it is completely its own beast and what a magnificent, prickly and involving beast it is. Listening to all of The Mars Volta’s records over the years has been a challenge, but an enduringly rewarding one for those who can stay the distance and appreciate the nuance and intelligence at play. There truly is very little out there that makes its mark on you like Mars Volta, and, given the time and the inclination, you will thoroughly
appreciate the craft at play in Noctourniquet. Finally, Estelle, the American Boy singer who has divided her time in recent years between Brooklyn and her home town of London, and has made some impressive appearances of recent times, showcasing her silky vocals with The Roots and John Legend at venues across America. All Of Me, her latest release, demonstrates all of the cross-Atlantic influences at play in her career, and is as smooth
a piece of pop-soul as you are likely to hear this year. It also features more mature and intelligent lyrics than this genre usually displays, with Estelle obvioulsy drawing on the personal and social consciousness displayed by the likes of The Roots in their music. This is a classy piece of work that demonstrates Estelle’s talents as a writer and as a savvy and adept listener to the trends and styles that best suit her skills
5 April 2012 GAZETTE 19
GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS
Supported by AIB
Interview: Anthony Carmody, partner at Carmody Moran Solicitors
Taking stress out of Courts ANTHONY Carmody is a partner in Carmody Moran solicitors, one the fastest-growing legal firms in West Dublin. Having merged Carmody & Co with Moran Solicitors, the Carmody Moran mix is gaining a strong reputation. Anthony brings a wealth of expertise to the practice, having previously worked in one of the big top-10 Dublin law firms, as well as a niche defence law firm. Anthony was keen to establish a general legal practice specialising in the area of court disputes with Q: What was your first job? A: At 16 I ran away to sea and was a steward on the ferry to France
Q: And your first pay cheque? A: IR£71 per week Q: Have you ever done a job you loathed? A: A steward on the ferry to France on a rough sailing… you can probably imagine the cleaning jobs
Q: When did you start your present job? A: I started my apprenticeship as a solicitor on February 5, 1996
Q: What is the best thing about your job? A: When people have to access
the expertise to offer clients a cost-effective legal service that aims to simplify the traumatic experience of taking a case through the courts. This week, he spoke to the Gazette about the challenges his clients face. Anthony says he has “no typical day and feels strongly that he can help his clients by advocating on their behalf and advising them when tackling the challenges that result from road traffic accidents, employment claims, etc”. He says: “One
legal advice they can be often quite intimated, so when you get working with them and explain the process and seeing them relax working with me, that’s a great part of the job
Q: Have you ever achieved anything that you once thought you could not pull off? A: Setting up my own practice,
day I can be securing a client a divorce and the next day I’m in the High Court on a personal injury action.” He goes on to say: “The most rewarding part of my job is getting my clients the results they deserve and that, while I cannot turn back the clock for them, it is always great to obtain a just and fair outcome.” Carmody Moran solicitors have offices in Dublin 15 and Dublin 7. To find out more, visit www.carmodymoran.ie or telephone 01 827 2888.
Q: Is there anything about yourself that you would like to set the record straight on? A: I’m not a complete nerd Q: What sport do you follow? A: Rugby and soccer, in particular Sligo Rovers
Q: What sport can you play? A: I have played every sport going
which now employs six of us
and was equally useless at each one
Q: What part of your working day do you ‘delegate’? A: Not anywhere near enough; I’m
Q: What habits would you like to lose? A: Smoking… if only I could turn
very hands-on in work
the clock back to 1989!
Q: What’s currently on your desk that shouldn’t be? A: A few empty coffee cups
Q: At the moment, what are you looking forward to? A: Continuing to build up our
practice that people come to when they wish to get solid, affordable and realistic legal advice and building on our reputation for putting clients first.
Q: What is your guilty music/TV or movie pleasure? A: Eurovision – it’s the worst and the best thing on TV
Q: Describe your dream meal? A: Outdoors somewhere with my
Solicitor Anthony Carmody
Inc. back to work.
Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously? A: Bookshops or HMV Q: Describe your dream holiday? A: Up in the mountains somewhere with my wife and baby son getting away from it all
Q: What would be your dream job? A: I don’t think that there is any-
wife, family and friends
thing else I would want to do or could do as well as what I’m doing,
Q: Who would you rather have dinner with – Enda Kenny or Dame Edna? A: Enda Kenny, as I’d love to know
Q: What do you plan to do when you retire? A: I don’t think that I will ever
what his plans are to get Ireland
retire
20 GAZETTE 5 April 2012
GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs New M-Class set for Irish release WITHIN the coming weeks, Mercedes-Benz will introduce the second of three new models planned for release in Ireland this year - their new third-generation M-Class sports utility vehicle. The M-Class links a strong off-road heritage to the comfort of a luxury premium saloon. In appearance, it has been given a more defined, forceful look with the introduction of new headlamps and grille and centrally mounted three-pointed star. Improvements include a more spacious and comfortable interior with more elbow room, a new dashboard and upholstery and a raft of standard and optional infotainment systems. The M-Class is powered by an all-new line-up of engines - one petrol and two diesel units. In Ireland, the version most likely to appeal is the 204bhp ML250 CDI BlueTEC 4-MATIC selling at €71,060 ex works with road tax of just €481. Notable features of the new M-Class include a new on/off road package that provides six transmission modes, depending on road conditions. Air suspension, anti roll stabilisation, adaptive damping that moves from firm to soft, electric steering and a tightest-in-its-segment turning circle combine to boost driving pleasure.
The new Mercedes-Benz M-Class
TomTom app hits tablets: TomTom has released an updated version of its WEBFLEET Mobile fleet management app, extending use to tablets and making fleet management more accessible for managers on the move. WEBFLEET® Mobile is designed to give businesses the flexibility needed to inform customers at all times and operate an efficient vehicle fleet and workforce. New functionality allows users to view details for all current
orders, manage workflow and meet service agreements. New jobs can be sent straight from the smart phone or tablet to a field workers’ TomTom PRO device, providing them with all critical information about the job. WEBFLEET Mobile displays an accurate time of arrival, which can be used to inform the customer. The new version also displays tracks for selected trips by date and vehicle. It is available in app stores for TomTom’s 15,000 business customers.
Done deal: Renault join Dubs for 2012 season DUBLIN football star, Bernard Brogan, is joined by local schoolkids Jack Murray, Roisin Gregory Cox, Mikey O’Driscoll and Molly Fitzgerald. The group got together this week to celebrate the launch of an official car partnership between Renault Ireland and the Dublin Gaelic Football Team. Renault will partner the All-Ireland Football Champions for 2012, a partnership that will see a number of players driving new Renault models. Players Denis Bastick, Kevin Nolan, Barry Cahill, Michael Dara
MacAuley, Eoghan O’Gara, Alan Brogan and Bernard Brogan took to the pitch at Parnell Park, home of the Dubs, with Renault managing director Eric Basset. Commenting on the deal, Mr Basset said: “We are delighted to announce our partnership with the Dublin football team today and we believe it’s a great natural fit as we share the same values - hard work, performance, challenge, and dedication. In 2012 Renault and Dublin GAA will have to continue to perform based on the good 2011 results, so we’re in it together!”
Dublin fully charged for 2012 EV Summit DUBLIN is to host Fully Charged 2012,an international Electric Vehicle (EV) Summit that is taking place on July 11, 2012, in the Convention Centre. T h i s o n e - d ay E V conference and exhibition will bring together thought leaders and policy makers from Europe, US and China as well as other experts at the cutting edge of EV technology. International executives from IBM, Nissan, Renault, Siemens, International Energy Agency will share their knowledge, latest research results and expert views
about this dynamic and emerging industry. A panel discussion with those responsible for ecar programmes in Estonia, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands and UK will provide delegates with an insight into the business models, consumer uptake and challenges of EV adoption. In addition, first year results from Green eMotion, the EU funded transport research project with a budget of €42 million, will be discussed. A range of electric cars and related EV products and solutions will be on display. A number of Irish
Dervla O’Flaherty, ESB ecars, and Reg Plunkett, owner of the 1899 Sperry Cleveland vintage electic car
small and medium enterprises, who have invested in developing a range of innovative products/ services for the EV market, will be showcased using the umbrella Ecar Ireland brand. These world-class solutions, supported by Enter-
prise Ireland, have been proven in the Irish market and are being actively marketed internationally. All participating exhibitors to date are listed at www.fullycharged2012. com/exhibition.html There will also be an Ecar Test Drive Zone,
whereby members of the public will also have the opportunity to test drive electric vehicles in Dublin city on the same day. Interested parties should register online @ www. fullycharged2012.com Fully Charged 2012 is a satellite event of the prestigious Euroscience Open Forum (ESOF 2012) which is one of the highlight events of Dublin, City of Science 2012. A discount delegate fee is offered to those who wish to attend both events. Registration for one or both of these events is available online: www. fullycharged2012.com.
5 April 2012 GAZETTE 21
Edited by Cormac Curtis
RoadSigns Road Signs
LONG-AWAITED KIA OPTIMA SET FOR ARRIVAL:
Eddie Murphy, chairman and managing director, Ford Ireland, and Mark Anderson, director of Titanic 100 Cobh project, at the handover of two specially liveried Ford
Ford getting on board ORD Ireland has become a partner of the Titanic 100 Cobh 2012 centenary project, with the provision of a pair of specially liveried new Galaxy models that will be used during the yearlong commemoration. Cobh (or Queenstown as it was known then) was the last port of call for the ill-fated Titanic on April 11, 1912, when 123 passengers boarded the ship before it put out into
F
the Atlantic ocean. Three days later, the “unsinkable” ship sank following a collision with an iceberg in the north Atlantic.
Tragedy To commemorate the visit of the Titanic to Cobh and the terrible tragedy, the Titanic 100 Cobh project has been set up and will run a packed agenda of events throughout 2012. According to Marc Anderson, Director of the
Titanic 100 Cobh project: “Cobh will be buzzing during 2012 as we commemorate this important part of the town’s, and Cork harbour’s history. We are delighted with Ford’s support and, as the centenary date in April approaches, the two Galaxy vehicles will be very busy. But the activity doesn’t end there because, into the summer and beyond, our programme of events means that the cars will
be familiar sights on the roads around Cobh and its environs right until the end of the year.” Eddie Murphy, chairman and managing director of Ford Ireland, said: “The Titanic is an important part of Cobh and Cork’s history so it is fitting for Ford, with our historical Cork roots, to be involved in the Titanic 100 Cobh project. In addition to providing these vehicles for use during the year, we are
also sponsoring a novel Titanic-themed short film competition for budding film-makers.”
Inspired Entitled 8 Minutes: The Ford Short Film Competition, Entrants are invited to produce an eight-minute short film inspired by one of the themes of Titanic. Twelve finalists will be given the opportunity to showcase their work to the wider film industry and the gen-
eral public at a great family evening out at Fota House Cobh on Saturday June 9th. On the night, one overall winner will be chosen and will receive the use of a Ford Fiesta for a year, fully fuelled, taxed and insured. Visit w w w.8minutes.ie for more information. More information in relation to the Titanic 100 Cobh 2012 project and the range of events planned can be accessed at www.titanic100.ie.
Dublin winner in the latest The Care Trust fundraiser DEIRDRE Ni Dhonaill, of Rathfarnham, and Susan Banks, of Kilnamanagh, were each the lucky the winner of a Ford Fiesta in The Care Trust’s latest fundraising draw which, as Ireland’s biggest car giveaway, will see 36 cars up for grabs in 2012. Commenting on her win, Susan said: “I am really thrilled to win a Fiesta in The Care Trust draw - I really love the sporty look of the car. It couldn’t have come at a better time for me as I had been looking around to replace my eight-year-old car and now I can’t wait to get behind the wheel.”
Gaeilgeoir Deirdre was also delighted with the win: “Ta me an-sasta leis an Fiesta nua – is carr alainn e”. Deirdre’s sons will benefit from the win too as she will give them her old car now that she has a sparkling new Fiesta for herself.
Winners The Care Trust’s prize draws take place three times per month with all winners notified by post. For €3.50 per week / €15 per month, contributors are eligible for all draws. For more information, see www.thecaretrust.ie or phone (01) 200 0060.
Phil Reid, of The Care Trust, presents the keys for a new Fiesta to Susan Banks and Deirdre Ni Dhonaill, while Aidan Kane, of Rathfarnham Ford, looks on
THE Optima Kia’s long-awaited new D segment saloon will arrive in dealerships throughout Ireland in the coming two weeks. The Optima, which has won numerous design awards, is an all-new car from the ground up. Longer, lower, wider and with an extended wheelbase compared to previous D-segment offerings from Kia, the new sedan embodies what Kia’s chief design officer, Peter Schreyer, calls “a bold, athletic and visual sporting energy”. Welcoming the announcement, Kia Motors Ireland MD James Brooks said: “Having being largely absent in recent years from this important segment of the market we are delighted to be back with this very attractive sedan.”
22 GAZETTE 5 April 2012
GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel A wonderful place to take a well-Erned relaxing trip Strokestown Park offers an Easter treat for families, with fun, eggs, music and puppets
VISIT Strokestown Park, Co. Roscommon, this Easter Sunday and enjoy an action-packed day of Family Fun in the Park’s idyllic six-acre walled gardens. The Park will be open from 12 noon to 6pm on the day with a whole host of activities and entertainment available for children to enjoy. For an entry fee of just €10 per child (admission is free for adults accompanying children) guests can enjoy a great array of fun activities and entertainment, including live puppet shows which will be performed by Conor Lambert’s Custard Pie Puppet Company, face-painting, bouncing castles, craft workshops, which are being presented by the Eco Envolve Team and includes both individual and group craft activities. There will also be a live musical performance by Eileen O’Toole, an exciting Easter Egg Hunt and unlimited access to the Park’s stunning gardens The Strokestown Park Woodland Walk Cafe will be open all day on Easter Sunday and special lunch rates will be available, with separate menus for kiddies and adults, for just €5 and €10, respectively. Pre-booking is advisable, so secure your tickets today. Tickets are available online at www.strokestownpark.ie or by phone at 071 9633013.
Enjoy a relaxing weekend close to home with the Ballsbridge Hotel ENJOY your next weekend break in Dublin with a special offer package at Dublin’s Ballsbridge Hotel and Berkeley Court Hotel. Both will be offering phenomenal deals this spring to brighten your next Dublin excursion. The Dublin Sightseeing Package at Ballsbridge Hotel, starts at only €55 per person sharing, which includes an overnight stay and a delectable Full Irish Breakfast. Explore the many sights and attractions the city has to offer with tickets for the Dublin City Sightseeing tour also included. Packages are subject to availability so early booking is recommended to avoid disappointment. To make a booking visit www.ballsbridgehotel.com and www.berkeleycourthotel.com.
BAIRBRE NI BHRAONAIN
THE Lough Erne Resort in Enniskillen is a golfcentred hotel with full course and a training academy both designed by Nick Faldo. Perched on the edge of Lough Erne in Fermanagh, the hotel has an impressive pedigree, with the awards to match. Indeed, it was the first AA and Northern Ireland Tourist Board five-star hotel in Northern Ireland, and was awarded the title of Best Hotel at the 2011 Northern Ireland Tourism Awards. T he beautiful setting and sumptuous hotel are not the most impressive things about the Lough Erne Resort, however. They are merely the surface layer of an exquisite resort. The golf course is now world-famous as it was Nick Faldo’s first Irish creation. The course is a real treat for avid golfers and non-golfers alike as it offers a real mix of golfing styles. It meanders around Castle Hume Lough and Lower Lough Erne and the holes vary from pine-lined and heathland. There are a lot of
water features on the course too, which only adds to its interest and diversity. Along with the magnificent views of the grand lake and the beautiful hotel, the experience of playing on the course is a multilayered sensory delight. Lough Erne Resort
guests and participates freely with whatever event is ongoing at the resort. Another very novel feature of the resort is the Faldo Academy. This is a state-of-theart facility for improving your golfing skills by practising with the assistance and guid-
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‘So, if you are a seasoned golfer, or a complete novice, the course and academy are a wonderful way to have great craic whilst improving or learning the game’
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won Golf Resor t of the Year from the Irish Golf Tourism Operators Association in 2010. T he Resor t effor tlessly marries old world charm and up-to-date luxury. It is set on its very own 600-acre penins u l a , b e t we e n C a s tle Hume Lough and Lower Lough Erne, just outside Enniskillen.
A Master at work Rory McIlroy is the touring professional of Lough Erne resort and has a house on the course in the golfer’s village. When McIlroy visits the resort he often leads golf clinics for the
ance of the hotel’s resident golf pro, the expert Lynn McCool. Lynn had a highly successful amateur career and won many titles throughout Ireland. She then won a golf scholarship at the University of Hawaii before embarking on a four-year training programme at The Belfry. She is a very adept and straight-talking instructor and believes that keeping things simple is the best way to improve a golfer’s form. “Sir Nick Faldo was the most straightfor ward and simple instructor I’ve ever come
across and if you practise the stance, grip and swing I show you, you can play on any course in the world effectively,” she informed me before tee-off.
A Beginners look McCool is equally good at instr ucting beginners, of which I was one. She tells you in very basic terms and by showing you your alignment and swing on the s c r e e n , h ow e a s i l y you can improve your game. The Faldo Academy is an indoor structure that leads on to an outdoor green where your swing, trajectory, distance and other technical skills can be monitored and tracked by a computer programme and equipment housed in the academy. Lough Erne houses the first Faldo Academy in Europe and, according to the man himself, through these academies, “we aspire to achieve the very best in all that we do”. Revolutionary Lough Erne claims that the Faldo Academies have revolutionised the way in which golf instr uction and practise facilities are being viewed.
The beautiful jetty at
It has been designed with golfers in mind and all of the staff at the facility assist golfers to replicate the shots that they will experience on the golf course. So, if you are a seasoned golfer, or a complete novice, the course and academy are a wonderful way to have great craic whilst improving or learning the game. Another facility at the Lough Erne Resort is the Thai Spa. This spa and thermal suite offers a truly authentic experience in the art of relaxation and Thai massage. From the moment you enter the spa you are taken in hand and led through a series of relaxing experiences, from head massage to foot massage, and everything in between. I had the back, neck and shoulder massage
5 April 2012 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 23
Edited by Mimi Murray
TravelBriefs
Killiney’s landmark Fitzpatrick Castle is fit for a King, and Queen, this Easter weekend
Lough Erne Resort in Enniskillen at dusk is a highlight of any stay, as trips to the Catalina Restaurant (top) and infinity pool (bottom)
as well as the head massage. T he dexterity and power of the delicate Thai girl working on me was quite remarkable. She was a true master of the art of massage and I was very revived and relaxed on leaving the suite. Dinner was ser ved in the hotel’s Catalina Restaurant where the cuisine was of the highest quality. Ever y thing on the menu, from vegetarian meals to a seafood selection and fowl, like quail and duck, were locally sourced. All of the bread, too, which was some of the most exotic I’ve ever had, (curry for instance) we r e b a ke d o n t h e premises. I had the hake on a bed of lentils with a great sauce and the most debauched choc-
olate dessert of three different creative incarnations. In all the whole experience at the Lough Erne Resort was a very good one. The staff is highly attentive and accommodating and all of the facilities, from the golf course to the spa and the dining, was absolutely above par. Escape for an overnight retreat with dinner in the award-winning Catalina Restaurant, a restful night’s sleep followed by the very best of Irish breakfasts. For more information on this fabulous resort, log on to www.lougherneresort.comor call the reception on 048 6632 3230 The Lough Erne Spring retreat costs from £89.50 per person, based on two persons sharing.
WITH the Easter break fast approaching now is the time to think about booking a break with family or friends, and Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel, Killiney, have a great selection of great value packages now available with something to suit everyone. Enjoy an Easter break the whole family can enjoy with the Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel Family Package. The package includes a two-night break for up to a family of five with breakfast each morning and dinner on one evening and a third night’s B&B absolutely free! Its also never been easier to entertain the children this Easter with Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel’s Kids Club, which will run Saturday, April 7 and Sunday, April 8 from 7pm to 10pm – perfect for giving mum and dad the opportunity to enjoy a relaxing dinner. On Easter Sunday morning, from 10.30am, a special Easter Egg Hunt will take place with the Easter Bunny leaving lots of delicious Easter eggs for children to find throughout the Castle. The Family package is available from just €205 per adult for a midweek break, and €240 per adult for a weekend break. Fancy an Easter break with friends? Then why not try the Spring Midweek Special from Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel. From just €145 pps (based on two sharing) you can enjoy a twonight break with breakfast each morning, dinner on one evening of your choice and scrumptious afternoon tea for two as an extra treat for you to enjoy during your stay. Or why not enjoy a longer getaway with the Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel Spring 3 for 2 Offer. This package includes two nights B&B, with dinner one evening, complimentary wine and chocolates in your room to enjoy upon arrival and a third’s night stay with breakfast absolutely free. This great-value package is available for just €175pps for a mid-week break and €195pps for a weekend break (based on two sharing). All Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel guests can enjoy full use of the hotel’s extensive leisure facilities as well as free WIFI and car parking. To make a booking contact the reservations team on (01) 2305556 or email: reservations@fitzpatricks.com
24 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5 April 2012
GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT
GoingOUT THE PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Baglady
FRANK McGuinness’s rarely-performed play has an extra poignancy in the current economic climate, given the social exclusion that some citizens continue to face. Here, True West, in association with Eska Riada, take a “baglady” (as memorably played by Maria McDermottroe) – someone you might walk past in the street – and reveal the person inside, stripping away the layers of alienation to find the isolated woman inside. Catch this moving play at 8pm on Thursday, April 5, with tickets costing €15/€13.
MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Faulty Towers Dining Experience DISCERNING diners are cordially invited to attend Basil and Sybil Fawlty’s upcoming special Easter three-course meal at The Mill, with fine fare provided by Roly Saul’s restaurant. Basil, and his loving wife, Sybil, will be ably assisted by Manuel – one of Barcelona’s finest waiters – to ensure the evening runs perfectly smoothly, and without any possible chance of mishap or mayhem whatsoever. Your Fawlty evening can be enjoyed on Saturday, April 4, with the price for the three-course meal, and Basil’s attention, set at €45.
CIVIC THEATRE 01 885 2622 The Playboy of the Western World PRESENTED by Loose End Studio, and performed by the ITT Dublin Drama Society, the classic Irish play by JM Synge gets a fresh approach in this upcoming production. Still striking a contemporary note with modern audiences, the secrets of a small Mayo townland will be revealed when wedding plans are interrupted, as Christy Mahon’s arrival will upset Pegeen Mike’s plans ... Catch Playboy nightly at 8.15pm from Wednesday, April 11 to Saturday, April 14; tickets priced €10/€7 conc.
DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Easter Integrated Dance Project CROI Clan, a professional contemporary dance company based in Cork, invites both disabled and non-disabled dancers, aged between 13-18 years, to participate in this exciting and dynamic week-long project, which celebrates and encourages dance diversity. The week will conclude with a dance piece set in a professional show in Draiocht’s studio space. The free project will run from Tuesday, April 10 to Saturday, April 14. If interested to participate, email sarah@draiocht.ie or telephone 01 809 8029.
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It could be something of a tall order for Snow White to thwart Queen Clementianna’s plans to marry a rich young prince but, thanks to this rather unlikely band of brigands she falls in with in the forest, she’s ready to face the challenge
Not a Grimm story It’s Snow joke to say that director, Singh, has struck the right note with an upbeat reboot of the classic fairytale I KATE CROWLEY
UNFORTUNATELY, The Gazette does not employ yours truly as its political correspondant, meaning that, alas, my dear readers are spared my thoughts on a number of pressing issues of the day. Yes, that’s right, you’ll both have to only guess what I might have to say on such matters as the Mahon Report, Bertie, the €100 Household Charge, the Troika, and so on. Why, it’s all enough to make a gal wish for an escape into a fantasy land. And, oh, look, here comes one now! Presented in the cinema style du jour, Mirror Mirror is a reimagining, reboot (or rehash) of Grimm’s old tale, rejinked for modern audiences. (Yes, yes, very good – it’s Snow White’s tale, with added glitz, polished CG effects, knowing asides, and so on.)
FILM OF THE WEEK: Mirror Mirror #### (PG) 106 mins Director: Tarsem Singh Starring: Julia Roberts, Lily Collins, Armie Hammer, Nathan Lane, blink-and-you’ll-miss-him Sean Bean, and seven rogues
OUR VERDICT: FORGET anything to do with whiney vampires, woeful werewolves and angsty moaning that would make Kevin The Teenager look good by comparison – this slice of pure fantasy is an amusing, upbeat slice of family fun, with Roberts’ gamely knowing portrayal of a youth- and beauty-obsessed queen adding another layer of deliciousness. For a fun, feisty fairytale, Mirror Mirror is certainly a film to reflect on ...
Not a million miles away from the classic fairytale, here, Snow White (Lily Collins) is a lovely lass, living in Ye Olde Kingdome under the tender, motherly ministrations of the Queen (Julia Roberts, right). That’s “tender” as in “pretty insecure and increasingly jealous of Snow, and ready to get rid of the girl once she’s old enough to scupper her plans to marry the next passing rich young prince and thus stabilise her broke kingdom’s finances and bag herself a toy-boy in the process,” folks.
Enter the Prince (Armie Hammer) who, as fairytale luck would have it, falls for the girl, not the queen. If Queenie’s going to have any chance of blagging her man – and his money – S n ow ’s gotta go, and so it’s not long before a certain someo n e ’s b e e n sent on a onew a y
trip to the forest, where people tend to have a habit of not returning from. Of course, as the tale is better known by another well-known title, rather than “SnowWhite and the Hungry Forest Monster that Ate her for Lunch”, Snow soon runs into a group of bandits, of sorts, who’re small in stature but can stand shoulder-toshoulder with any soldiers in the kingdom, such are their impressive fighting skills (and, err, occasional use of stilt-legs). Beautiful, feisty and strong-willed Snow (and, thank God, not oooh-angsty like too many young female leads have been in several films lately) enlists the help of her seven new friends to square up to
the tall order of reclaiming her rightful place in the kingdom, thwarting the Queen’s plans, and – duh – netting the Prince, and getting the fairytale ending that everyone expects. But the Queen may have other ideas, once she learns that Snow is still alive ... Camply colourful and upbeat, it’s a film that’s full of great design and striking vistas, with amusing turns from several of its leading and supporting stars, such as seasoned ham, Nathan Lane, while there’s a fun frisson to the Queen’s/Roberts’ obsession with fading beauty. Mirror, mirror, on the wall ... who’s the sharpest critic of all? What’s that you say? Meeee? Why, thank you! Upon reflection, there’ll be extra Pledge for you this week, my polished sidekick ...
Startled to learn Snow lives ... Queen Clementianna (Julia Roberts)
5 April 2012 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 25
GazetteGAMING GAMING Bytesandpieces True out-of-this world marketing
Whether standing at the gleaming entrance to the flagship store on Fifth Avenue (above), or passing by a billboard in a corner of Chinatown (right), Apple have significant branding around New York – a stark contrast to Dublin, where the company has little comparable presence. Pictures: Shane Dillon
A tale of two cities SHANE DILLON
THIS may sound like something of a grand statement, but I was at Apple’s flagship store on the corner of Fifth Avenue and Central Park, in Manhattan, just last week, as well as at a number of other key game and technology outlets all around the island. All just part of a routine holiday, but it was pretty interesting to note the very different approaches, and
interest in, gaming and tech between the two distant, and disparate, capital cities (on paper, at least, if not by legislation). Firstly, my condolences to the GAME staff at a number of locations around Dublin, given last week’s well-publicised abrupt closure of the Republic of Ireland wing of the games retailer. Although I’d written here previously about the ailing chain’s difficulties, it’s regrettable that what
many business, gaming and technology followers had half expected would indeed come to pass, and that the company would enter administration, with GAME’s outlets in the Republic being closed, while those in the North, and Britain, continued trading. Like other interested parties, I’d been on a deathwatch, of sorts, while in Manhattan, as gloomy business headlines indicated what was
Anotherweebyte... Feeling The Force of some great promotional ideass IN MY main piece, above, I briefly touched upon how games stores in Ireland never quite market themselves very well, by comparison to their peerss that I’ve seen elsewhere. However, games companies are much more savvy about great marketing, as Microsoft proved when it enlisted the intergalactic tin can hero, R2-D2 (with human friend, Craig Sutton) to help launch Kinect Star Wars in Ireland recently, which was released on April 3. nect title, which It was a great way to publicise the latest top Kinect is one of the year’s most anticipated titles for Kinect, XBox 360 and Star Wars fans alike, letting fans jump straight into the action, using Kinect to engage with the Star Wars universe in a wide variety of key settings, light sabres at the ready. It shouldn’t be hard to Force any Star Wars fan to pick this one up ...
coming, as looming rent payments, and other costs, seemed impossible for the chain to meet. What a contrast between the sight of nearly deserted games stores and technology sections in Dublin – for all retailers, I hasten to add – and that of the many such similar retailers in Manhattan. Eve n c o n s i d e r i n g the vast differences in economies in scale and populations, I saw much busier shops (or “stores”, for our American friends) around New York than to be seen here at home, or, indeed, in London, where I was also on a similar ITrrelated stroll around last weekend. w Back Stateside, and, whether in bustling flagw sship stores or much ssmaller independent rretailers, I was impressed by the engaging displays, b and a much better, handsa on approach to displayo iing the latest (and recent, iinteresting) titles than I have seen for several years here in Dublin. Even better, the swamp of second-hand titles –
which did much to add to GAME’s difficulties, as well as to HMV’s equally ailing section, in my opinion – was not as prevalant, giving a much wider range of recent stock . With GAME now gone, what does the future hold for games retailers in Ireland? If I were to shake a Magic 8-Ball app beside me, it would probably answer: “The future is unclear” ... With the loss of GAME in the Republic – with staff members’ sit-ins making news around the world, I noted, in the relevant gaming/tech press – there’s a sudden loss of a key games retailer, further reducing choice for Dublin (and Irish) consumers. Presumably, that’s good news for the few remaining chains and online distributors (major supermarkets still present extremely limited choice, so I discount them), but, given the stale state of the market, and how games are marketed in Dublin, at least, I hope they can continue playing ...
SPEAKING of marketing – well, it’s a fairly broad theme that I’ve chosen for this week’s page – Roxio, makers of the infamous Angry Birds series, came up with an out-of-this-world idea for the latest instalment in the smashhit franchise, Angry Birds Space. Seeing as this series is likely to send some readers into an angry rage, such is its love/hate appeal, rather than delve into the game – widely available at a unmber of sources, and which Roxio are hoping will make the franchise the first game series past the one-billion download mark, as it’s somewhere around 800 million, at present – I’ll just say that getting NASA astronaut Dave Pettit (above) to demonstrate the principles of Angry Birds – while in gravity-free orbit on board the International Space Station – was, perhaps, not Mankind’s greatest scientific moment, but a pretty fun way of looking into the principles of the series, as well as some inspired marketing. Dave’s scientific discussion of how angry birds could attack greedy green pigs, using the principles of velocity, can easily be found on YouTube.
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26 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5 April 2012
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GazetteSPORT
STARS FOR MARCH
This month’s Dublin Sports Awards winners are announced: Page 29
CHARITY: IRISH CRICKETERS GIVE BACKING TO CAMARA’S 10K EVENT IN SANDYMOUNT
Batting for the betterment of Irish schools sport@gazettegroup.com
TWO members of Ireland’s World Cup cricket team, Trent Johnston and Max Sorensen, were on hand recently to support the launch of Camara Education’s 10K r un, which will take place along Sandymount Strand on Saturday, May 26. T h e a n n u a l c h a rity 10K Run, now in its third year will raise vital funds for Camara Edu-
cation’s Irish School’s Programme, which aims to supply 65 Irish schools with 1,300 computers and train 300 school teachers in ICT in 2012. Every €5 that is raised will help another child in a disadvantaged area gain access to ICT, making it easier for them to reach their employment potential and build a better future. The run is open to all ages and abilities and
you can walk, jog or run. The race will commence on the Promenade, Strand Road at 9am shar p, with the course stretching around Sean Moore Park and the Irishtown Nature Reserve providing scenic views of Dublin Bay for entrants. Camara Education is an Irish charity and social enterprise dedicated to using technology to deliver a more effective education to
Trent Johnston and Max Sorensen from the Irish cricket team, with Killian Byrne, launch the 10k race
disadvantaged children in Ireland, Africa and Jamaica. Camara Education’s CEO, John Fitzsimons said: “It’s a great opportunity to get some exercise and help Camara deliver e-learning opportunities to some of
the most disadvantaged schools in Ireland. “Last year’s event was a huge success, and we are on track again this year for a big turnout. It is geared toward everybody, young and old, and is a great family day out and also a good pre-
mini-marathon run.” Johnston added: “The education that Camara provide with the computers is of utmost priority. It’s an amazing job they do.” Along with trophies for the winners and gold medals for all, partici-
pants can also choose to fundraise for the event with prizes being awarded to the top ten fundraisers. Register now at www. camara.ie, and avail of the special early bird registration fee of €15 until April 11.
28 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5 April 2012
GazetteSport Sport FastSport
RUGBY: MINIS GO TO LIMERICK AS GUESTS OF THORMOND
Walk of Dreams 2012 set to take to streets THE John Giles Foundation, in association with Three, sponsors of the Irish national soccer team, last week launched the 2012 Walk of Dreams, which will take place this year on May 7. This will be the second time that the Walk of Dreams has been held. Last year, the initiative involved more than 25,000 participants who raised a total of €360,000, which went back into club and community projects involving soccer throughout Ireland. The 2012 Walk of Dreams will include five new venues this year and will bring together the football family to raise funds for the work being done by the foundation. Half of funds raised will be retained by participating football clubs while the other half will go to the Foundation for community football projects in clubs, schools and community groups throughout Ireland. John Giles said: “Last year’s walk showed the power of the football family to turn out en masse and raise funds for club and community projects through the foundation. “Following the walks, €360,000 raised went into community projects benefiting young people in 62 projects nationwide. “This year, the number of walks will grow to 20 and we look forward to demonstrating, through the numbers walking for a great cause, the important role that football plays in Irish community life. “Half of the money raised will go back to participating clubs while the other half will be used by the Foundation to fund football projects where they are needed most.” For more information, see www.johngilesfoundation.com.
The Coolmine mini section who travelled to take part in the Munster Branch Scheduled Blitz celebrate in the sunshine
Coolmine go west for blitz I sport@gazettegroup.com
COOLMINE’S Mini section last week travelled to Limerick for a friendly tie against Munster side, T hormond RFC. Situated in Limerick city, the current AIL Division 2 side have a long and illustrious history in Limerick rugby going back to 1944, and count in their ranks current Ireland centre Keith Earls and his father, Ger. Thomond RFC were r u n n i n g a Mu n s t e r Branch Scheduled Blitz, and were delighted to have Coolmine Under9s join in. Twenty-six of the 29 minis from the Ashbrook club made the trip, and previously having fielded two sides at this level, the decision was made to field three
teams in the blitz competition - the Blues, the Sharks and the Reds. A m o n g t h e cl u b s attending the Blitz were Shannon RFC, a club who gave Irish rugby many current and past internationals, such as John Hayes. Also present on the day were west Limerick’s finest, Newcastle West. The Coolmine sides revelled in the challenge of taking on such illustrious clubs, and started the brightest of their peers, scoring frequently in what was a sun-drenched morning on the banks of the river Shannon. All games were played in great sprit but with a harder edge than the Coolmine kids were used to, but they knew they had the measure of the very well-drilled Limerick sides.
Each of the three Coolmine teams played three games in succession and in ideal conditions, and every player made a big contribution to the Coolmine cause. Everyone gave their all and Coolmine ended up undefeated, scoring an impressive number
of quality tries on their way to a fine set of results. T he Coolmine’s Under-9 players can feel rightly proud of their achievements on a very successful day’s rugby in Limerick. T h e cl u b w i s h t o pass on their thanks
to Thomond RFC, who hosted the event and provided refreshments for parents and kids afterwards, as well as to head coach, Declan Power, who organised an enjoyable morning’s rugby and ran the matches off in quick succession.
5 April 2012 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 29
in association with
2012 DUBLIN SPORTS AWARDS - MARCH WINNERS
FastSport
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
# STARof the MONTH
# TEAMof the MONTH
APRIL showers? Let’s hope not! But the stars continue to rain from the sky here in Dublin, and March’s winners are a soccer double-bill that shows the talent on offer across the city in the underage levels. Let us know about your achievements in sport, so that the
DAN CASEY ST JOSEPH’S Boys’ Casey is a star on the rise, his talents having seen him appear in Irish colours on several occasions in recent months. His trip to Qatar to play against the ASPIRE academy in late 2011 was a gateway to him getting his first international call against Belgium in Killarney. His selection was vindicated when he took the captain’s armband in the first match, and scored goals in both ties.
COLAISTE PHADRAIG MARCH was a memorable month for the Colaiste Phadraig first-year team, which claimed not only the Umbro FAI Schools’ Leinster Cup title after defeating Chanel College, but also their league title with victory against the same opponents. Their cup success, a 2-1 win in Arklow, was a well-deserved one, and they now progress to the All-Ireland semifinals in May.
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 or Twitter.
Ireland’s biggest kids’ race in Great Ireland Run THE SPAR Great Ireland Run, which will take place on Sunday, April 15, in Phoenix Park, will feature the largest-ever children’s run in Ireland. Over 1,100 children between the ages of five and 15 have already entered the MiniRun and Junior Run events. The Mini and Junior Runs take place over a flat 2.5km course, which uses the start and finish areas of the adult SPAR Great Ireland Run. An adult is allowed accompany a child running in the Mini Run. The Junior Run starts at 11.15am followed by the Mini Run at 11.30am. Entries for the Mini and Junior Runs are still open at www.greatirelandrun.org. Current Olympic champion at 5,000 and 10,000 metres, Kenenisa Bekele of Ethiopia, will lead off the main field in the SPAR Great Ireland Run at 1pm when up to 10,000 runners, joggers and walkers will enjoy the stunning beauty of the Phoenix Park as it celebrates its 350th birthday this year
30 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5 April 2012
GazetteSport Sport FastSport
SOCCER: UNDER-11S REACH CUP DECIDER TO SET UP DOUBLE
Phoenix fire to FAI Senior Cup success PHOENIX dug deep to produce a truly stunning comeback, coming from 3-0 down to snatch a breath-taking win at Scribblestown in the FAI Senior Cup. Lucan were sunk in the wake of Simon Carroll’s red card seven minutes into the second half as Phoenix – three tiers higher in the Leinster Senior League roster – roared back into contention to dump them out of an FAI competition for the second time this term. John Brophy proved the hero, scoring twice coming off the bench in the closing eight minutes to complete a famous comeback. Such a situation looked a long way off after 45 minutes. For the most part, the ’Nix did the pressing, but struggled to get a clear view on goal, bar Keith Kennedy’s flashing right-foot drive. Lucan went one up after O’Donoghue got the trajectory just right to bend a left-foot free-kick from 25 yards into the top left corner. The winger had clipped the bar in the Intermediate Cup fourth round six weeks ago with a similar effort, but it had the requisite curl to beat Tadgh Murphy. Conor Walsh created the second in brilliant fashion, keeping the ball just in play on the right sideline, beating three to get into the box. His shot was blocked by Ray Kearns but spun left to strikepartner Dunne who rocketed in off the underside of the bar. And in the 43rd minute, Lucan looked home free when Gary Lang’s free-kick was dinked forward. It was never cleared, and Rutherford placed the breaking ball into the net. However, Lucan sat deeper and deeper in the second half and Phoenix pushed on, with Derek Swan to the fore. The Lucan goal was finally breached when Sean Gleeson’s shot rebounded to Gareth Cooney who slotted home in the 62nd minute. The pressure was incessant, but it needed a moment of brilliance to close the gap further, and it came from Swan’s pin-point cross, finding Keith Dawson whose first-time volley rocketed home. Lucan were wobbling badly and could not escape their half. The leveller came with eight minutes left, when Brophy rose highest to nod home another perfect cross. Three minutes later, he bent the winner around Barco. Harry Kenny’s men were left to celebrate a famous win.
Castleknock Celtic Under-11s celebrate their victory over St Mark’s Rangers in the Lee Kavanagh Cup semi-final
Celtic into the Kavanagh final LEE KAVANAGH CUP Castleknock Celtic St Mark’s Rangers (AET)
4 2
I sport@gazettegroup.com
CASTLEKNOCK Celtic Under-11s have made it to the Lee Kavanagh Cup final in pursuit of back-to-back cup success. This time, they overcame a brave St Mark’s Rangers side in Liffey Valley. It was St Mark’s who started the brighter, and they broke the deadlock halfway through the first half. A slick, incisive move caught the Castleknock
defence napping, and the influential striker for St Mark’s, Jake Purcell, finished off a good move when he rifled home to put the home side in front. Celtic did go close when a good exchange of passes between Kevin Long and Ben Fleming saw a ball crossed into the box which Joe Gleeson was unlucky not to get to. T he sides went in at half-time, 1-0 to St Mark’s, with Celtic very much on the back foot. After the break, Long began to show why he is one of the most improved players of the
Reign in Bahrain: McGee victorious in Futures contest CASTLKEKNOCK man, James McGee, won both the singles and doubles titles at the Bahrain F1 Futures last weekend as his preparations for this weekend’s Davis Cup continue in excellent fashion. McGee defeated Spain’s Jordi Samper-Montana in the final on a scoreline 6-4 6-4, and was also victorious in the doubles event with partner Sam Barry. The pair had a 7-5 4-6 [10-8] win over Jeremy Jahn (GER) and Matthew Short (GBR).
season, while twins Robert and Aaron Lynch showed their skills. A superb through ball from Ahmed Khalid saw Rober t Lynch taken down in the box, and a penalty was awarded. Lynch stepped up to take the penalty himself, and his spot-kick brought the sides level. Again, St Mark’s came at Castleknock in waves. Alex Murphy impressed at left back, Ben Blanche at right also cleared his lines well, but some poor luck saw St Mark’s take the lead and go 2-1 up. A through-ball bounced awkwardly, hit
Jack Kearney in the midriff and popped up for the lethal Purcell, who notched up his second. It was a cruel blow to Celtic, though the hosts deserved to be in front at this stage. As time slipped away, Celtic launched wave after wave of attack and there seemed to be perpetual panic in the Mark’s box, but they were holding on. Dylan Mulhearn, Aaron Lynch, and Khalid all went close. Just when it looked like Celtic were going home empty handed, a final assault saw Sebastian McMahon send in
a corner that eventually came to man-of-thematch, Robert Lynch, who netted his second from close range. The visitors went wild as the teams went into extra time. Celtic saved their best till last, and Aaron Lynch, who had tormented his opponents throughout, finished with panache. Celtic had finally got their noses in front. It was left to Robert Lynch to complete his hat-trick with a cool strike. They now look forward to yet another cup final in May.
5 April 2012 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 31
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FOOTBALL: LOCAL SIDES PICK UP LEAGUE POINTS .
CLUB NOTICEBOARD CASTLEKNOCK THE Clubhouse Appeal is still going
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6.
younger) to participate in the Great
Well done to all of our Adult and
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minor teams after winning all of their
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A trio of wins for Castleknock adults I sport@gazettegroup.com
A V E RY s u c c e s s f u l weekend for the adult teams of Castleknock began in Pairc Na Uinsionn against St. Vincent’s on a beautiful Saturday evening. There was a big crowd out to support the first team in their AFL Division 4 clash, and they were not disappointed. It was far from easy for the team though, and ten minutes into the game, they knew they were in a battle. A very low-scoring first half was stop-start, but that did not disrupt the intensity. Scores were exchanged between the teams, and Vincent’s went in with a twopoint advantage, five points to three at halftime. Howe ve r, t h a t a l l changed in the second half. Some inspirational words were obviously spoken at half-time, and
a totally different team emerged in the blue and gold jerseys. The introduction of Eoghain Quinn was also important, and the opposition struggled to deal with his pace on the ball. And he was rewarded when a great move ended with him fisting Castleknock’s first goal from close range after a fine attacking move. Two more goals then came in quick succession, both from Tommy Corcoran, and that effectively ended the game as a contest. Stand-out performances for the Castleknock team included Tom Shields at halfback, Shane Boland and Quinn at half-forward, and the Corcoran brothers.T he match ended on a final score of Castleknock 3-10, St Vincent’s 0-9. The second team headed out to the Bogies to play St Finbarr’s the
following morning with the hope of claiming their second win of the season so far. The team lined out, unusually, on the juvenile pitch, with the main pitch already being in use for another match. However, the cramped conditions were reflected in the scoring in the opening phase, with little room available to either forward line, with Matt Griffin kicking most of the Castleknock scores from frees. Bad shooting from a more dominant Finbarr’s team meant that Castleknock went into the half-time break five points to four up.
All change Then the match was moved to the main pitch for the second half when it became free. And it turned out that the bigger main pitch suited the faster Castleknock men, and they
took full advantage. Strong running from Griffin’s brother, Damien, was very effective, and he was rewarded with 1-1, the goal proving to be the crucial difference between the sides in a final score of Castleknock 1-12, St Finbarr’s 0-7. Elsewhere on Sunday afternoon, the third team travelled to take on Ballyboughal in AFL9. A gallant performance in defence from Dan Steward, Ben Mulcahy, Tony Corcoran and Anthony Corbett, and five points from a hardworking Conor Deasy, saw the visitors turn a half-time draw into a six-point lead at the end of the encounter. This is the first year Castleknock has fielded three adult football teams and, with a total of eight wins out of nine, the season has started strongly for all three teams.
All club fixtures can be found on the website the week before the game.
son. If you are interested, contact the
Lotto jackpot now at €2,800, with
Castleknock GAA’s football teams continued their impressive run of results at the start of the season
site.
or 0877532030. 2012 Registrations are now due. Form can be downloaded from website.
ST BRIGID’S EASTER GAA Camps: Brigid’s Easter
or €100. For more information, con-
GAA Camps next week! Some limited
tact Phil on 0867733693.
places are still available. Contact
Club Lotto is still € 15,000 and
Paul on 0879154748 or see website
takes place in Russell Park this
for more details.
Thursday.
To p in t e r co un t y p l a ye r s a n d
Great league wins for five of our
coaches will be present including
six adult mens’ football teams over
Noel McGrath (Tipperary), Philly
the weekend, reports on website.
McMahon (Dublin) and Colm Crowley (Dublin minor coach). Membership deadline has passed. Pla yers who haven’t paid their membership will not be allowed train or play untiol membership paid. The annual club Golf Classic takes place in Royal Tara on May 25. Team entry is €400, while tee boxes and greens can be sponsored by €200
Minor hurlers, junior ladies’ footballers, U-16 girls and camogie teams also recorded great wins. Great start for U-9s with a fourteam blitz on Sunday. New players are always welcome, please contact our club coach, Paul on 0879154748 or email info@stbrigidsgaa.com. Brigid’s-produced coaching DVD also now available from Paul.
GARDA/WESTMANSTOWN THE Gaels GAA Skills Easter camp
12 girls’ footballers who pla yed
runs from April 10 to 13 from 10am to
their Clontarf counterparts, and
2.30pm every day for €40 per child
both teams secured victories.
in Westmanstown Sports Complex. All boys and girls welcome. To register online or to download the registration form, visit http:// www.westmanstowngaels.ie Westmanstown Gaels Under-8 and Under-9 hurlers were in action
The senior ladies secured a hardfought four-point win against Lucan Sarsfields on Thursday, April 29. All other Senior weekend fixtures were postponed due to death of Grainne Moyles, wife of our friend and colleague, Sean Moyles.
against Naomh Olaf and St Mark’s
We extend our deepest sympathy
Tallaght, and both contests ended
to Sean and his family on their very
with the honours shared.
sad loss.
Well done to Under-15s and Under-
May she rest in peace.
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32 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5 April 2012