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INSIDE: Localise Teens hold Annual Teen Fashion Show P8-9
Tennis: Epic battle sees McGee win for Ireland in Egypt Page 32
Football: Castleknock’s Kilkenny stars in Leinster win Page 31
ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ............. 2, 8-9 BUSINESS .................... 19 MOTORS ........................21 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26
April 12, 2012
CHILDREN: Public’s views vital in helping to draft child legislation P4
Planned location of new school is changed I LAURA WEBB
THE Department of Education and County Dublin VEC, have answered calls to shift the location of a planned new school building for Luttrellstown Community College, by moving it closer to a neighbouring national school. Following consultation with residents about the school’s location, planners heard concerns about the location of the school being too near surrounding residential homes.
In a surprise turnaround, the department went back to the drawing board and located the building further back, closer to Scoil Choilm NS. Welcoming the move, Fine Gael councillor Kieran Dennison said: “Rather than risk delaying the project, the Department went back to the drawing board. It’s vital that building on the school begins on the new site this year. Residents are happy with the changes.” Full Story on Page 7
Pretty picture: Mia makes her mark with prize win FORTY-THREE students from Dublin
city and county have won top prizes in this year’s 58th Texaco Children’s Art Competition. In Category F (six years and younger), third prize of €100 was won by six-year-old Mia
Browne, from Castleknock, for her painting entitled, Life under the Sea. Mia is pictured holding her prize-winning painting with her father, Barry, brother Daniel and mother, Michele.
2 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 12 April 2012
EVENT: BUSINESS BOOST
EVENT Ikhuoesan United Club of Ireland meeting
Fingal’s finest off to US show I LAURA WEBB
SMALL businesses from across Fingal hope to put their mark in the American market when they showcase their products at the Ireland Trade Show in the US. The eight small companies are hoping to trump at this years show which takes place in Secaucus, New Jersey, from April 21 to 24. The businesses hope to attract potential US buyers and secure combined export sales in excess of $200,000 in the next twelve months. The businesses, known as Fingal’s Finest, are supported by Fingal County Enterprise Board. The Ireland Trade Show is one of the United States’ largest ‘Irish’ trade shows, attended by hundreds of influential buyers and industry leaders every year. It offers Irish companies the opportunity to
meet and impress key representatives from the lucrative Irish-American gifts and crafts market. The eight Fingal-based companies will represent the jewellery, art and design, giftware and heraldic goods sectors. Businesses from Fingal, who attended last year, secured an impressive $70,000 in direct export orders with $200,000 in combined export orders projected for the rest of last year. This result edges this years attendees to come back with a similar achievement. Prearranged meetings with American buyers and enterprise development executives have already been set up by the Enterprise Boards. Fingal-based companies which are travelling to the show include Irish Linen House, O’ Gowna, Privatmark, Crystal Eire, and Sinead Cooke.
Debbie, Club PRO Vanessa, and secretary Victoria. Pictures: Ania Sherlock
Celebrate International Women’s Day HE Ikhuoesan United Club of Ireland met recently to celebrate International Women’s Day. The club, made up of exclusive Esan Women, meet with one aim of improving and empowering themselves as women, while also promoting their culture and social
T
values. The charity organisation came together on March 25 for a workshop titled, The Role of a Virtuous Woman in the 21st Century. Members and local representatives were in attendance at the workshop, which took place at Carlton Hotel in Dublin 15.
Ncube Akidwa, of Migrant Women Network, spoke at the workshop Estella and Charlotte President of Ikuoesan United Club, Dr Vivienne Vanni-Igbinomwaniha
Sister Carmel O’Halloran and Matron Vivian Lijoka and MD Angela Ejliakhide
Gbemi Shogunle
councillor Ann Devitt
12 April 2012 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 3
PEOPLE Early start sees Zookeeper avert tragedy
Susan to the rescue as baby Beag is saved I LAURA WEBB
castleknock@gazettegroup.com
THANKS to a Dublin zookeeper’s love for rugby, a baby pygmy marmoset was saved and is now striving after it was left behind by its parents. Z o o ke e p e r S u s a n O’Brien went into work earlier than usual in February. There was a rugby match on that day and she wanted to get her work done in time to watch the match. When she went into the South American House, she noticed two newly-born pygmy marmoset babies clinging on to their father. Leaving them
to go about her daily business, she noticed something in the corner. Thinking it was a mouse, she walked over and picked it up. To her surprise it wasn’t a mouse, but a new-born pygmy marmoset, the size of her thumb. The little animal appeared lifeless and was cold to touch, but that soon changed. “I held him in my hand and walked to the clinic [at Dublin Zoo] He started chirping and I started to warm him up. He held on to me and we got him into an incubator and fed him SMA milk used for babies, which is for primates too,” Susan told the Gazette.
Susan and fellow zookeeper, Aisling, then took turns to hand raise the little monkey, with feeds every two hours, sometimes even every hour, but she made sure the baby interacted with the family whenever he wasn’t feeding. Being such a small creature with a tiny mouth and nostrils, even feeding the little monkey was a precise and delicate operation requiring all their experience and care. According to Susan, it is very unusual for a pygmy marmoset to give birth to triplets, and, with only two nipples to feed its young, the mar-
The baby pygmy marmoset has been named Beag, Irish for small
moset parents may have decided not to feed the smallest and weakest of the litter. This was the second time this family gave birth to triplets; unfortunately only two survived the last time. Luckily this time, Beag was found. “It was pure luck we found him. He is very
lucky.” The monkey has been named Beag, Irish for small. “He is the cutest thing you will ever see. I have hand-raised kittens, pups, birds, but nothing compares to this cutie. He is so tiny. It was a huge responsibility, but I would do it again
in a heartbeat,” Susan added. Last Thursday, Beag made his first appearance on RTE programme, The Zoo. Viewers can watch his progress every week on the popular programme, supported by EBS on Thursdays at 7pm on RTE one.
HEALTH
Zest4life free talks ZEST4LIFE is hosting a free talk for Castleknock residents interested in losing weight and improving their health. Zest4Life has a number of nutrition and weightloss programmes, and a special talk this month aims to explain what they are all about. The programmes are based on the work of nutritionist Patrick Holford, and designed to motivate you to lose weight, improve health and wellbeing permanently and safely under the guidance of a qualified nutritional therapist and weight-loss coach. It helps to change eating habits to a healthy way of eating for life. This talk takes place at 10.30am until 11.30am, and 7.30pm until 8.30pm on Thursday, April 19, in St Mochta’s Pastoral centre, Luttrellstown Road, D15. To reserve a place, contact Mary Dunne, on 085 159 1810 or marydunne@zest4life.eu
4 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 12 April 2012
STANDARDS Improving Ireland’s child welfare services
Public is urged to offer views on child protection TRACY COOPER, chief executive of the Health Information and Quality Authority, says draft standards on child protection set out the key attributes of an effective and safe child protection service IT is very clear from various reports in recent years that have highlighted the scale and seriousness of child abuse in Ireland, that there is a need to significantly improve Ireland’s child protection and welfare services. With this as our guiding principle, the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA) has developed Draft National Standards for the Protection and Welfare of Children that set out the key attributes of an effective and safe child protection service. The setting of standards by HIQA and the monitoring of compliance with them are important levers in driving improvements in the effectiveness and safety of health and social care services for children and families. The new draft Standards have been launched for public consultation until May 17 next by HIQA. The Standards document, and an easy-toread guide to the draft Standards, can be downloaded from the Authority’s website, www.hiqa. ie. HIQA has a legal duty to set standards, while the Health Service Executive (HSE) has a legal responsibility to promote the welfare of children not receiving adequate care and protection and therefore it is critical to ensure that the system for protecting children is
effective and robust. The draft National Standards have now been developed by HIQA to support continuous improvements in the care and protection of children receiving HSE child protection and welfare services. The Standards put the needs of children at the heart of child protection services and promote the principles outlined in Children First, the national guidelines for the protection and welfare of children. HIQA is committed to ensuring that the safety and wellbeing of children is the top priority for the HSE. The Standards will apply to HSE Children and Family Services and its statutory functions, which include protecting and promoting the welfare of children at risk in the community, and supporting and protecting children in the care of the State. When finalised, the Standards will be the basis of HIQA’s future inspections of the HSE’s child protection functions and can also be used as a guide for self-assessment and improvement by all those involved in the protection of children. While HIQA will publicly report on the HSE’s performance, and hold the HSE accountable for these services, the Standards will enable HSE child protection and welfare services to gear up to the best of their ability to
address concerns consistently and to a high standard. It is important to point out that, when implemented, HIQA would review HSE systems rather than individual cases. It is not intended that, as a general rule, the Authority should become involved in the detail of individual child protection cases. Therefore, people who are concerned about the welfare of children in any setting should continue to report any concerns about child protection and welfare to their local HSE health office. The HSE has been consulted in the drafting of these standards as they are critical to the implementation of these standards. HIQA developed the Standards assisted by a Standards Advisory Group. This is a group of key representatives from the HSE, Government departments, An Garda Siochana, other regulatory bodies, people from the academic and legal fields, non-statutor y organisations and other key stakeholders. The expert group and HIQA looked at, and considered, international and national published research, standards in Ireland and elsewhere, expert opinion, policy document and reports by national and international governmental and non-governmental organisations.
Tracy Cooper, chief executive of the Health Information and Quality Authority (HIQA)
In general, our Standards are not prescriptive but are calling for timely and effective action to be taken to protect children, and that children and their families have timely access to child protection and welfare services. A number of reports on child abuse cases were considered by the Authority and its Standards Advisory Group when developing these standards. These Standards cover issues such as listening to children, assessment and planning, working
with other agencies, the protection of children across a range of settings and the training and support of staff, and are grouped according to six key themes as follows: • Child-centred services • Safe and effective services • Governance, leadership and management • Use of resources • Workforce • Use of information. The Authority is now seeking the views of the
general public and children and young people on the draft National Standards. Information collected from this consultation process will be used to inform the development of the Standards. Your comments can be submitted through an online survey on the HIQA website, www. hiqa.ie, or by downloading and completing the consultation feedback form on our website and emailing it to consultation@hiqa.ie. You can print off the feedback
form and post it to us, or you can write to us. Once the consultation deadline has passed, the Authority will carefully analyse all the submissions made and we make further amendments to the Standards document. The finalised Standards will be presented to the Board of the Authority for its approval. Following this, the Standards will be submitted for approval to the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs.
12 April 2012 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 5
EVENT
NATIONAL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL: CLLR PUSHES FOR CONNOLLY HOSPITAL
NAC gets set for top USA swim show
Call for support on hospital site I LAURA WEBB
castleknock@gazettegroup.com
A LOCAL politician is seeking cross-party consensus to support the possibility of locating the National Children’s Hospital at Connolly Hospital, Blanchardstown. Fianna Fail councillor David McGuinness, wants to push the Dublin 15 hospital site as the best possible location for the hospital, which was proposed to be built at the Mater Hospital near the city centre. An Bord Pleanala recently refused planning permission for the children’s hospital to be built at the Mater because it would constitute overdevelopment at that site. In light of this, an expert review group, headed by Dr Frank Dolphin, was set up to advise the Govern-
ment on options available for building the proposed National Children’s Hospital. One option for Cllr McGuinness is to locate it at, or adjacent to, Connolly Hospital. The local councillor was set to call an emergency motion on the issue at this week’s council meeting, scheduled for April 10, seeking the cross-party support. “I think it does represent a really viable option. I have tried to put together the practical reasons, medical and infrastructure, for why it should go there. If the Mater site does not go ahead, I would like Fingal County Council and the local community public representatives to make a submission to the Dolphin group to push Connolly. As of now, it
is a working document,” Cllr McGuinness said. “The argument, in contrast to Tallaght, is the actual population growth percentage around the Connolly site is 37%, while in Tallaght it is about 30%. Strategically there is a lot to be said for West Dublin.” In his proposed submission for the review group, Cllr McGuinness said access to the hospital was in the past poor and seen as a negative point for the location of the new hospital, but now these issues have been resolved with direct access to Connolly from the N3, rail services are just a kilometre away. He went on to say land available within Connolly Hospital grounds is coupled with extensive Stateowned Abbotstown site adjacent to the Hospital.
Tee-time: Members welcome new Captains at Luttrellstown Golf Club ON St Patrick’s Day there was a huge turn out at Luttrellstown
Castle Resort as the members of the Golf Club held their Captains’ Drive In 2012 and welcomed in its new captains for 2012. After arriving to the club in great style, new captains Aidan McCormack and Barbara Ardagh got the golfing year started by hitting fine drives to the first hole. Members then enjoyed a round of golf before heading to the clubhouse to continue the celebrations. Pictured are the new Men’s Captain Aidan McCormack and Lady Captain Barbara Ardagh.
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THE USA synchronised swimming squad is making a splash at the NAC with their Synchronised E x t r av a g a n z a s h ow heading for a 2,000 seat sell-out. The squad arrived in Dublin earlier this week for a six-day training camp. Showing off their talents to the Irish public, they are set to put on a fantastic display this Saturday, April 14 at 2pm. The show has already sold over 1,600 tickets and is heading for a complete sell-out. All proceeds will go to Temple Street Children’s Hospital. Tickets are on sale now at the NAC at just €5 per Adult and 2 children go free.
6 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 12 April 2012
Laurel Lodge Carpenterstown I HAVE two good news stories for this week’s Diary and both relate to growth. Not another load of economic “twaddle” I hear you say – no, this is a nature story, it is
about the environment, it is about community and working for community. Well done to Castleknock Lions Club, St. Brigid’s School Blanchardstown, Connolly
With Jim Lacey Phone: 087-2401308 Email: jimlacey@eircom.net
Hospital, Castleknock Community Centre, Scoil Thomais Laurel Lodge and the Parish of St. Thomas the apostle – they all come up smelling of roses. So read on!
Environmental project
L
IONS Club International started a very special project initiated by their International President Wing Kun Tam – to plant 1.3 million trees worldwide over 12 months. This represents one tree for every member of the worldwide organisation. To date, they have far exceeded that quota. Alan Halford, president of Castleknock Lions Club, tells me that more than 80% of the forests that covered our planet have been lost or degraded. Between 1980 and 1990 Latin America lost
62 million hectares of its forests. Despite efforts to reverse this trend, deforestation continues at an alarming rate. Trees are a fundamental element of various nature systems. They conserve soil and water, control avalanches, prevent desertification, protect coastal areas and are home to 90% of terrestrial life and are vital centres of biological diversity. Trees, and people, depend on each other for their existence. Trees improve soil quality, attract animals essential for pollination, seed dispersal and
germination and provide food and shelter. The local Lions Club’s Sean Lyons (yep! coincidentally that’s his real name) approached Karl Dalton, environmental manger, Connolly Hospital, who agreed to provide the land for 36 trees. T hen the boys of 5th class in St Brigid’s National School stepped forward to enthusiastically volunteer their services as a planting crew. They planted a selection of three different species of hardwood trees – ash, oak and beech.
Pupils of Scoil Thomas at work at community gardens in Laurel Lodge
Community garden for Laurel Lodge A
N environmental project, which was carried out by FAS trainees and supported by local people, including school children from Scoil Thomas, has been a great success, according to Lorraine Reid, of Castleknock Community Centre in Laurel Lodge. Lorraine was contacted by FAS who were looking for a piece of land where trainee gardeners could perfect their skills as part of a learning course in horticulture. I t w a s t o i nvo l ve designing and landscaping a community garden for the use of all members of the public. Par t of the parish grounds adjoining the community centre are not in use at present and there are no shortterm plans for their use so Lorraine approached Fr Mick Cullen, Parish
Priest, and he was glad to allocate the land for the project until a future time when it may be required for the parish. The workers arrived and set about their work with a will. This part of the course was to run for five weeks, but the complexity of the plans, and the extra little touches the workers incorporated, led to an overrun. The workers generously continued on in their own time with the assistance of volunteers from the community, including school children from 6th class in Scoil Thomais, to bring their plans to fruition. When I use the word fruition, I use it wisely, for some of the plants are fruit-bearing species. There are also vegetables such as peas, cabbage, onion, broad
beans and lettuce in this garden. Garry Foran, a professional horticulturalist from the locality, selected the plant species that were used. There are three beautiful Silver Birch trees included in the garden, one of which was donated by the Community Credit Union, who play a vital role in the areas of Laurel Lodge and Car penterstow n and who wanted to demonstrate their support for the project. The other two trees are planted in honour of the late Paddy Madden, who did so much voluntary work over the years – cutting grass, planting bulbs and shrubs. When entering Laurel Lodge from Castleknock Road in springtime the floral display that greets you is Paddy’s work. The third tree commemorates another man
who did so much for Dublin West and who was taken from us at a relatively young age, the late Brian Lenihan. Fr Dan Joe O’Mahony, parish chaplain, will officially open the garden on Monday, May 7 at 12 noon. A Community Festival, to which all are welcome, will follow the official opening. The garden will have seating on sunny days, courtesy of the Community Centre. There are no plans for permanent park benches. The garden will be lit up at night making the area safe and secure for all and the area has been covered by CCTV for some time now. So, well done to all concerned, and isn’t it great to have the school children involved too in such worthwhile inspiring work!
12 April 2012 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 7
ARTS Dance company set to perform new dance piece
Local dancer to show off her talents at Draiocht A CASTLEKNOCK dancer will showcase her dancing talents when she performs at Draiocht Theatre this weekend. In My Body Are These Islands, is presented by Corkbased integrated dance company, Croi Glan, featuring Castleknock dancer, Dawn Mulloy. Dawn is a core dancer with the company and is also one of its directors and project co-
ordinator. She will perform on stage on April 14, when the show is staged at Draiocht in Blanchardstown. Highly experienced in dance, Dawn has performed across Europe, including in Poland, Italy, Austria and Germany. Her career stemmed from graduating out of Sallynoggin Senior College in 2003 before moving to Austria to complete her training at The Salzburg Experimental Academy of Dance in 2006,
where she studied with teachers, including David Hernandez, Douglas Becker, Libby Farr, Ori Flomin, Kate Mattingly and Milan Kosanek. After a long career away from home she decided to come back to Ireland in 2008, when she found Croi Glan. She has worked and trained with them for the past three years. According to a spokesperson for Croi Glan, In My Body
Are These Islands “looks at our relationship to the environment we live in, the places we are from and the stories and associations which bind us to them”. “Inspired by John O’Donohue writings on landscape and beauty, this dance piece examines how our environment influences what he calls ‘the internal landscape’: our cultural attitudes, thoughts and feelings. In doing this,
Islands creates a space for community discussion and reflection on our post-Celtic Tiger surroundings, reflecting on our essential human relationship to our landscape and environments,” the spokesperson said. In the lead-up to the show the company will work with local people and incorporate them into the choreography at each venue. “Draiocht participants, aged 13-18 years,
will work with Croi Glan in an integrated dance project for both disabled and nondisabled dancers, and they will then be part of the final show. As a result, the piece will constantly shift and change as the non-professional performers bring their own experiences and movement,” the spokesperson added. In My Body Are These Islands is at Draiocht on Saturday, April 14 at 7.30pm.
Removed trees are to be replaced
Success: Students win €500 prize PICTURED at Agri Aware’s Green Dragon Secondary School Innovation Challenge were Creative Selling Winners, Celine O’Brien and Caoimhe Ryan, of Mount Sackville Secondary School, Chapelizod, with Agri Aware executive director, Dr Vanessa Woods. The Mount Sackville students joined over 60 other students at Croke Park recently to compete for the title of National Winner of the challenge. A total of €14,000 in prizes was awarded at the event and Celine and Caoimhe took home a €500 prize when they impressed 2011 Apprentice Winner Eugene Heary with their selling idea for their nametags made from biodegradable plastics.
EDUCATION: FEAR THAT SCHOOL SITE IS TOO NEAR TO RESIDENTIAL HOMES
Residents’ concerns force Luttrellstown CC rethink I LAURA WEBB
CALLS to relocate the proposed new building for Luttrellstown Community College have been answered, with the Department of Education and County Dublin VEC going back to the drawing board to address residents’ concerns. During recent meetings with local residents, the VEC and Department of Education outlined plans for the new school building. However, residents voiced concern about the location being too near surrounding residential homes. Since then, the Department of
Education and County Dublin VEC have gone back to the drawing board and changed the plans. The building will now be located further back from the original location at the Luttrellstown/Porterstown Road junction and will be closer to Scoil Choilm Community National School. The building has moved from the South end of the site to the West side, while the playing pitches have been moved to the dry high ground on the South East corner of the site, at the Luttrellstown/Porterstown Road junction.
Welcoming the move, local Fine Gael councillor Kieran Dennison said: “This had the potential to delay the planning process and the need to have the school opened for the 2013 school year. Of course all of this could have been avoided if the Department and the VEC had informed those neighbouring the site about the plans as a matter of courtesy. One resident, who lives beside the school site, only became aware of the planning application when talking to an engineer working on the new Porterstown Road. “The local residents
association invited me to a meeting to voice their concerns and, as a result, I organised for them to meet with the Department and the VEC before the public meeting. I understand it was a very frank exchange in which the residents made it clear they would be lodging an objection. “Rather than risk delaying the project, the Department of Education went back to the drawing board. The Luttrellstown Community College will now be sited beside Scoil Choilm rather than at the Luttrellstown road and Porterstown road junction.”
According to Cllr Dennison, following another meeting on Thursday, April 5, the concerns of residents have now been addressed. “This has allowed the school to send in revised plans without having to give a whole new plan. It is now in the hands of the Department of Education to submit the revised plan to Fingal planners. Residents are very happy with the changes; I have never seen such a quick turnabout like this from any organisation. I welcome the Department’s quick response. It is vital that building begins on the
new site this year,” Cllr Dennison added. In a letter to interested parties, Head of Organisation Services for County Dublin VEC, Paul McEvoy, said: “Every effort is being made to integrate the new school buildings as sensitively as possible into the local environment and within the community.” T h e d e ve l o p m e n t includes a new school building for Luttrellstown Community College, as well as classrooms extension and a new general purpose hall for Scoil Choilm Community NS, which is on the same campus.
MATURE trees, which were removed to facilitate the Porterstown Link Road, will be replaced by a number of semi-mature Austrian pine trees and ash trees as part of landscaping works. Last year, residents in the area were disappointed to see a number of mature trees removed as part of the works for the link road. During a recent area committee meeting, Labour councillor Peggy Hamill, asked Fingal County Council to report on landscaping measures being put in place for the mature trees that were removed. In response, a spokesperson for FCC said the felling of trees was in order to “provide the required level of safety at the new junction between the Luttrellstown Road and the realigned Porterstown Road”. “As part of the project the four Spruce trees have been replaced by four, three- to four-metre high semi-mature Austrian pine trees. “Twelve new ash trees are being provided at the new cross road junction, between the Diswellstown Road and the Porterstown Road, three trees in the open space at each corner,” she said. It is also proposed to provide a double line of native-mix hedging along the eastern edge of the new road.
8 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 12 April 2012
EVENT The Castleknock Localise
group host
Enjoying a feast of fashion OCALISE Group hosted their annual Teen Fashion Show in aid of St Francis Hospice in Castleknock Hotel and Country Club recently. This year the event was bigger and better than any other year. It was an evening of high teen fashion, music and loads of fun which help raised much-needed funds for the hospice. The show raised over €1,000 for the hospice and provided the young people of Castleknock with a great night’s entertainment. The event featured make-up stands from Benefit and Urban Decay and all outfits were from the Blanchardstown Shopping Centre.
L
The event provided local young people with a great night’s entertainment. Pictures: Ian Fleming
Carolyn Elliot
Chloe Lynch
Liz Hannigan and Beth Freeman
Hazel Keogh
Catherine Hegarty, Zara McNally and Liza Riley
Carolyn Elliot
Killian McInerney
Tamara and Elaine Monahan
12 April 2012 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 9
Teen Fashion Show in aid of the St Francis Hospice
MCs on the night, Caoimhe O’Rourke, Derek Cleary
Leo Gibson presents Aoife Graham with her prize
The student models looking sharp in their fashionable clothes
Yvonne Farrelly and Maria Carroll
Beth Freeman
Emily Hussey
Rebecca Agroli, Ellen Murphy, Julia Murphy and Maeve Reilly
Rebecca O’Reily
10 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 12 April 2012
SPORT South Korean swimming squad enjoy training
Christine Bolton, of The National Aquatic
Brian, with Kim Tung Hye and Seo Youn
Centre (NAC), Sewon Kim, Embassy of
Jeong
Korea, and Yvonne Gaule, of the NAC
Declan Curtis, general manager of the The South Korean Swim team. Pictures: Conor O Mearain
Brian McGloughlin, of the NAC, with
Carlton, with Choi Hyera and Yang June
Jeong Darae and Back Su Yeon
Hyuck
Korean team make a splash UBLIN West had some very special visitors recently when members of the South Korean swimming squad were in town to train for the London Olympics. The group were taking advantage of the state-of-the-art facility as a training base. Thirty swimmers and seven coaches stayed locally in Blanchardstown at the Carlton Hotel. The team included Yang June Hyuck, who once lived in Coolmine and attended Coolmine Community College.
D Castleknock resident, Sarah Hayes, marketing manager of Hyundai, with Jong Tack Ah and Jin Soo Kim
Hawon Kim, of the Embassy of Korea, with Kim Hye Rim and An Se Hyeon
12 April 2012 GAZETTE 11
12 GAZETTE 12 April 2012
COMPETITION: GETTING ‘HOOKED’ ON ENERGY
Top talent: A natural at wood turning
Looking to our youth for ideas
JIMMY DEENIHAN, Minister
for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, attended the National Museum to accept the museum’s most recent acquisitions from Kerry-based wood turner artist, Earl Allgrove (right). Minister Deenihan said: “This extremely talented artist was brought to the museum’s attention while participating in a craft development project with South Kerry Development Partnership. Having started working with wood relatively recently – back in 2003 – Earl has shown tremendous natural skill in attaining this level of competency with wood turning.” COMMERCIAL FEATURE
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porting Irish jobs and Irish suppliers. If you are an older person or if you have a parent living at home and are concerned about the quality of their daily meal, why don’t you visit our website at www.healthcarefoodsolutions.com and visit our Homecare Shop. We deliver our meals on a weekly or fortnightly cycle across Co.Dublin, we can be contacted via the web shop or contact one of our telesales team on 01 289 8823. Once you are happy with our service you can set up a regular weekly or fortnightly order which will be delivered automatically.
CELEBRITY broadcaster George Hook launched Tell The Future, a storyw riting competition encouraging primary school children, North and South, to write a short story on how to power homes, hospitals, factories and schools into the future. Now in its second year, the competition rewards the best ideas from young people in Ireland today regarding energy and the environment. Rugby pundit and NewsTalk host, Hook, is spearheading this year’s competition and has made a special animated video for pupils, parents and teachers to learn more about it, which can be seen by logging on to www.tellthefuture.eu Launching the competition, George commented that, as a nation, we need to pay more attention to the creativity of our youth. “Our young people today are not only more aware of innovation and new technologies, but also of the environmental and energy challenges we are facing today and into the future. We need to take more notice of young people’s creativity, and Tell The Future gives them a nationwide platform to showcase their ideas on energy sustainability,” he said.
Bringing these written stories to life is a key feature of this year’s Tell The Future competition, and winners in the junior and senior categories will have the unique opportunity to have their story transformed into a oneof-a-kind animated video narrated by George Hook himself. In addition, first-prize winners will receive their own iPad and a specially-engraved trophy. The school of the winning pupil will receive five Netbook laptops, with branded mouse pads and t-shirts for his or her class. Second and third-prize winners will each receive a Kindle. Tell The Future is part of a pan-European initiative – Future of Rural Energy in Europe (FREE) – which is supported in the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland by Calor Gas, and aims to highlight the environmental and energy-related concerns facing rural communities in particular. Tell The Future will be launched for post-primary school students North and South in autumn 2012. The closing date for entries to the Tell The Future primary competition is Friday, May 18 2012. For full details, please visit www.tellthefuture.eu
12 April 2012 SWORDS GAZETTE 13
R1
EVENT Getting a Lidl help for Happy Heart
Have a heart and help raise funds for foundation I BAIRBRE NI BHRAONAIN
FAIR City’s Tom Hopkins and TV celebrity, Caroline Morahan, have volunteered to raise money for the Irish Heart Foundation’s 23rd Happy Heart Weekend appeal. The weekend is on May 10 to 12 and the aim is to raise half a million euro to fight heart disease in Ireland. The event is sponsored by Lidl Ireland and their staff, together with the team at 2FM, and the Irish Heart Foundation are appealing to Dubliners to volunteer and lend a hand in the mission to raise the target amount. Happy hearts will also be sold through Lidl stores. “I support Happy Heart Weekend because I’m passionate about driving awareness of heart disease and stroke. A little bit of awareness can be the difference between life and
death. This was the case for my cousin, who was able to spot the signs of his heart attack and managed to get help in time,” Caroline Morahan said. Caroline has helped the Irish Heart Foundation before and been involved in previous years’ Happy Heart Weekends. She left Ireland for Los Angeles but has returned and is looking happier and healthier than ever. She is a loyal patron of the charity. The anticipation is building for the Happy Heart Weekend 2012 and preparations are already in full swing for what is shaping up to be the best Happy Heart Weekend yet. Every year thousands of people all over Ireland give up their time during the weekend of May 10, 11 and 12 forThe Irish Heart Foundation. These volunteers scat-
tered across the country will hit the streets to collect donations and sell the Happy Hearts for €2 each. They will provide you with a fundraising pack, heart badges, and details on local collection points, plus you can choose what day or days you would like to volunteer. You can also raise money for Happy Heart Weekend your own way by registering for the events pack to keep hearts across Ireland happy and healthy. Collect donations at work and discover new ways to gladden and strengthen your heart so that it will last a lifetime. The spoils of the Happy Heart Weekend will provide free heart disease education and fund a helpline to support heart and stroke patients. Every €2 raised from the sale of happy heart badges will
SHOW: PAVILION VENUE Dublin Dance festival set to delight DUBLIN Dance Festival is stopping off at several venues across Dublin and Pavilion Theatre, Dun Laoghaire, is one of them this year. The Spanish company, Aracaladanza, will perform a piece inspired by surrealist artist, Magritte. It will be a strange mix of puppets, dance, clouds and ladders sure to ignite the imagination of any audience. The show is entitled Nubes (Clouds) and it has already delighted audiences across Europe. It is suitable for all ages from
Caroline Morahan calls for volunteers to support the Irish Heart Foundation’s Happy Heart appeal, with ‘Lidl volunteer’, three-year-old Laura Ormsby
help to avoid 13 unnecessary deaths from heart disease and stroke in Ireland. Hopkins said: “Even giving a small bit of your time can make a big difference. Whatever you feel passionate about, prevention, research, CPR... the Irish Heart Foundation does it all and I hope the people of Dublin will volunteer to sell happy hearts this May.”
Hopkins is from Ballyfermot and has been on the show for many years. He began life as a civil servant but ended up treading the boards., and is well known for giving his time to charitable causes. To volunteer for Happy Heart Weekend in Dublin by selling happy hearts or by organising your own fundraising event, call Jena Clark on 087 3743367.
You can also donate directly to the charity online or find out more about the fundraising drive by going to www. happyheartweekend.ie
four years and up. “Magritte would tip his hat… for 50 minutes both children and adults were left speechless,” according to La Tribuna de Albacete. You can catch the show at Pavilion Theatre, Dun Laoghaire, where there will be four performances, on Saturday, May 12, and Sunday, May 13, beginning at 2pm and again at 4.30pm. Tickets are €14 for adults and €10 for Children. Concessions are €12 / €8 and Family tickets, €40 (for four people).
14 GAZETTE 12 April 2012
GazetteBEAUTY BEAUTY Green Angel skin range nurtures with nature
Weleda nourishes with its Skin Food
CELEBRITIES and models across the world swear by it, and it can be seen in makeup bags of A-listers like Adele, Alexa Chung and Rhianna, so what is Weleda’s skin food’s secret? Skin Food was created in 1926 and was the first skincare product developed by natural brand, Weleda. The replenishing skin repair cream, Weleda Skin Food is ideal for people constantly on the go, which can lead to tired, overworked and dehydrated skin. The product’s main ingredients include nature’s best, including organic sunflower seed oil, and extracts of wild pansy, calming chamomile, caring calendula and revitalising rosemary extract to perk up even the weariest skin. A great rescue remedy for undernourished complexions – the reason why it’s the go-to skin care product for so many worldwide. Weleda Skin Food is €6.25 (30ml) /€11.25 (75ml) and available from Nourish Health and Beauty Stores, selected independent health stores and pharmacies nationwide.
AN Irish-based company is showing just how wonderful Mother Nature can be with their exclusive range of seawood and essential oil beauty-based products. Each product is handmade using the very best in Irish products, sourced by a husband and wife team. Chris and Mary Mitchell developed Green Angel and have over 10 years experience in bringing, and developing high-quality Irish products. The Green Angel collection is a unique collection of fresh and innovative beauty products with over 33 unique handcrafted skin care, spa and hair-care products helping to rejuvenate and nourish all types of skin. The product is themed to be wellbeing from the ocean, which many users
would agree after testing it. According to the owners, the top-to-toe holistic approach they provide leaves the entire body, revitalised and enriched, with nurturing ingredients like vitamin E, jasmine, ylang ylang, neroli and apricot all combined with the natural healing benefits of Irish seaweed. Yes, you heard right, seaweed. Nature’s very own beauty product is added with care to ensure best results. Each product is blended meticulously to ensure that all the benefits of seaweed extract is captured. The seaweed is sourced from unpolluted waters off the west coast of Ireland, with all the benefits of natural, highquality essential oils to deliver amazing results. The Green Angel prod-
ucts have been making customers look and feel refreshed all day long. The couple have always seen natural ingredients as an important part of their lives, whether it is in the food they eat, or the topical applications they use. The importance of which has been carried through into their work and development of Green Angel products on an ongoing basis. The holistic Green Angel experience will leave you revitalised and ready to face the busy world again. Green Angel have their factory showroom in Rathcoole, where they continually develop new ingredients and products. Green Angel Body Massage Oil with Neroli Geranium & Irish Seaweed Extract is just one of the many products
Holistic Green Angel experience will leave you revitalised and ready to face the busy world again
available. It’s used to help relax; pour one drop into the palm of the hand and massage from the feet to the neck. Body massage is renowned for helping to clear toxic build-ups and for aiding relaxation. Another way of using this product is in
the bath – pour two teaspoons into bath water and soak for at least 10 to 15 minutes to soothe and relax. Check out the full range of Green Angel products by visiting greenangel.com, where products can also be pur-
chased. There is a also a wide range of pharmacies and gift shops nationwide stocking the natural range. For stockist information call 01-4124900 or visit their website for details of stockists.
12 April 2012 GAZETTE 15
Edited by Laura Webb
Give yourself something to really smile about
GIVE yourself something to smile about, and make that smile glisten with a whitening glaze, thanks to a new fuss-free treatment. Not ever yone can afford to get their smile matching celebrity smiles on red carpets all over the world. But who is to say we can’t try, and try is what Gazette Beauty has done. When we heard about PolarWhite Pro, a product used by some friends, we decided to find out if it really works PolarWhitePro Teeth Whitening Glaze comes in a very stylish silver penlike product, which says it is a fresh, affordable and fuss-free treatment to keep teeth looking healthy and pearly white. It’s a safe, pain-free way to whiten and brighten. Stains from
smoking, tea, coffee and red wine disappear with use. The light and small product can easily feet in to a bag or make-up bag when on the go. As a heavy tea and cof-
--------------------------
‘PolarWhitePro has been developed by an Irish company in conjunction with a leading international dentist’ --------------------------
fee drinker myself, it was time to put it to the test and see the results. It is recommended to use for five days once a month. and follow instructions carefully. It is a bit messy but worth it. Holding a smile after applying the application can make you
feel like a Chester Cat, but you won’t mind smiling once you see the finished results. It takes 60 seconds to dry, but do not rinse because the gel remains active, slowly dissolving surface stains on teeth and you can’t eat or drink for 30 minutes after application. After using it for the full five days there was a noticeable change. PolarWhitePro has been developed by an Irish company in conjunction with a leading international dentist. It uses potent active ingredients, a formula that helps to whiten teeth up to six shades lighter after six applications. For further information, or to purchase it, log onto www.polarwhitepro.com
Food intolerances - Could you be suffering? IT is estimated that about 20% of Irish people suffer from food intolerance and many of us are not aware of it. The term, “food intolerance”, refers to a reaction in the body that arises from an inability of the digestive system to properly digest certain foods. These undigested foods lead to an accumulation of harmful toxins in the bloodstream, which causes our immune system to overreact. Food intolerance can manifest itself in many ways some of which include: IBS, indigestion, eczema, asthma, hay fever, and even headaches. A finger prick test in your local pharmacy may identify foods that you are intolerant to and help improve your quality of life. With Thanks to the Staff of Lucan Village Pharmacy PolarWhitePro Teeth Whitening Glaze
16 GAZETTE 12 April 2012
GazettePETS PETS
Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA
THE FACTS: HOW TO SAFELY INTERACT WITH FAMILIAR AND UNFAMILIAR CANINES
Keeping children safe around dogs I WAS deeply upset to read about an incident reported earlier this week concerning a small child who was viciously attacked by a husky dog. Now, before I go on, I want to say that this is not typical behaviour for such a breed. In fact, here at the Dublin SPCA, we have successfully, responsibly, re-homed many huskies over the years that have made wonderful, loyal family pets, so I would hate for any reader or prospective husky parent to shy away from this breed in light of the unfortunate and dreadful incident. I don’t know the facts, only what I have read and I thank God for the quick intervention of the child’s neighbour and I believe
the little guy is recovering in hospital. When my own, now adult, daughter was only three, she was savagely attacked by a neighbour’s dog and I can tell you I was mad beyond words. Thankfully, Megan made a full and speedy recovery and I insisted on adopting a rescue dog, so she wouldn’t grow up fearing all dogs were going to attack her. That dog is my much lamented greataunt Sophie, now 17, and I immediately set about educating Megan regarding her own personal safety around Sophie. However, I would stress to all parents/guardians that no child should be ever be left alone or unsupervised with any dog, irrespective of breed.
Teach your child to NEVER pat a strange dog without the owner’s permission
That is not to say the little lad in question was ever left unsupervised, it’s just a piece of advice from somebody who works in animal welfare. As a mother and grandmother, I can only imagine the poor mom’s utter horror as she helplessly watched the scene unfold before her very eyes. As a result of that unfortunate
incident, I want to give readers a few tips regarding safety around dogs; whether it’s your own family pet or a strange dog, because, believe it or not, there are a number of ways in which your child could come into contact with an angry dog. They are: • The family pet. • A friend’s, neighbour’s
or relative’s dog. • An uncontrolled dog on the street/in the park. • A dog under effective control, on a lead, but who is approached by your child in a manner he doesn’t like. All parents know that kids go off the rails when they spot a dog. Their natural instinct is to run up and pet the animal, try to hug it, pick it up and scream and squeal with excitement, often upsetting the dog, albeit unintentionally. So, what can you do to protect your child from being bitten by a dog? • Teach your child to respect a dog’s instincts and, most importantly, its fears. When around a dog, ask your child to speak quietly and to move slow-
ly – no running around making mad, flapping movements. • Never allow your child to ride a bike, a scooter or skate too close to a dog. Some dogs feel scared because they are not normally used to these things and may even chase the moving object because such behaviour can trigger a dog’s natural prey instinct. • If a strange dog gets frisky or excited around your child, teach the child to behave like a statue. Your child will need to drop any food or toy they’re holding and stand still like a statue or a tree. Statues are boring for dogs – they will usually come over, sniff and go away. Practise this with your kids, so they
know exactly what to do if a strange dog rushes at them. • Teach your child to NEVER pat a strange dog without the owner’s permission. • With the owner’s permission, teach your child to approach the dog slowly and quietly and allow the dog to sniff the back of the child’s hand – then gently pat the dog’s chest, sides or back. Again, these are guidelines. Hopefully, the little lad will make a full recovery and I wish him and his parents the very best for their future. For more information, contact your vet or log onto www.dspca.ie or email me at miriam.kerins@dspca.ie
12 April 2012 GAZETTE 17
18 GAZETTE 12 April 2012
GazetteMUSIC MUSIC FastTunes with Radio Nova’s Dee Woods FORGET bankers, bondholders and brokers - it’s the rockers we should have been looking to for financial advice all this time. Two major players in the rock world could be making (even more) big bucks very soon. Bono’s tech-wise investments in the likes of Facebook and Yelp means some investors are saying “I Will Follow” to whatever the U2 frontman puts his money to. His investment firm, Elevation, is set to pocket a billion dollars from Facebook alone, and the next trick up Bono’s leather sleeve is the company expected to take a huge bite out of Apple’s market. Dropbox - an internet storage service - is still in its early stages but already has tens of millions of users, and with the first 2Gb free, they’ll be logging on in their droves. Although, back in the music world, it’s yet to be seen if ALL Bono’s investments are “sound”. U2 have apparently enlisted the help of the songwriter who gave X-Factor losers (well they didn’t win, did they?) One Direction their debut hit. Bet they’re sorry they already used ‘Pop’ as an album title.
Another rocker with his eyes on a very big prize is Neil Young. Coming from the time of vinyl, the legendary musician thinks MP3 just isn’t up to scratch and wants to develop a new audio format with quality that’ll take the listener right into the recording studio. Young wants the future of music to be coming from an online “cloud” as opposed to compressing audio like an MP3 would. Don’t be fooled by his 66 years, Neil Young is down with the kids, and with one of his trademarked names for this new invention: “Thanks for Listening” — he’s polite too! They don’t make them like that anymore. Listen to Dee Woods from Radio Nova every weeknight from 7pm to 12am on 100.3FM
Go with the Flo: Machine release Unplugged set COMING on the back of her recent acclaimed set at the O2, Florence Welch and her Machine are releasing the MTV Unplugged session recorded in New York recently. The set features songs from Florence’s two albums, as well as covers of Johnny Cash’s Jackson, backed by Queens of the Stone Age’s Josh Homme, as well as a beautiful rendition of soul standard, Try A Little Tenderness.
CHARITY: IRISH ACTS CONTRIBUTE TRACKS TO NEW RELEASE
Supporting the sound on Pieta House release I ROB HEIGH
LIFE SUPPORT, a compilation of exclusive tracks from some of Ireland’s finest artists was released last week in aid of Pieta House, the suicide and self-harm crisis organisation based in Lucan. Life Support is the brainchild of Alan Jacques from the Green & Live Show on Limerick’s Live 95 FM, a perennial supporter of new Irish music. Among the 18 tracks on the compilation, many which are exclusive, are songs by Delorentos, The Coronas, Windings, Wallis Bird, We Cut Corners and The Flaws. “Pieta House is a cause close to my heart. I wanted to support and raise money for Pieta House in a practical, pro-active way,” said Alan Jacques who conceived the album and approached some of his favourite Irish artists of the last few years to get involved. “Music is a great way to express your emotions. We’ve very appreciative that so many artists have come together to support the work we
We Cut Corners, one of the Dublin bands who feature on Life Support, released in aid of Pieta House
do at Pieta House,” said Joan Freeman, CEO and founder. “We want to remind people that we are here to help, and we urge people who feel they can’t cope, or who find themselves in crisis, to please contact us. Our services are free of charge and we’re equipped to help people get through their crisis,” she said. Pieta House provides a professional, faceto-face, free-of-charge therapeutic service for
people in the acute stages of distress. The therapy is aimed at people who have attempted suicide but sur vived, those who have a strong urge to take their life and those who self-harm. The primary aim of Pieta House is to reduce suicide by helping people get through that critical phase when suicide becomes a plan rather than just an idea. Pieta House opened its doors in Lucan in
January 2006. In the last five years, the organisation has opened four more centres – three outreach centres in Finglas, Tallaght, and Ballyfermot in Dublin, as well as a second national centre in Limerick. The unique, clinicallybased model developed by Pieta House is used by the five centres across the country. Aside from the contribution of the 18 artists who appear on the compilation, the album
has been made possible with the support of Limerick’s Live 95 FM and The Delphi Label to allow all proceeds from the sale of the CD to contribute directly to Pieta House. The album, priced €9.99, is released on The Delphi Label on Friday, April 20, and will be available to buy online and from selected stores in Ireland, and also as an iTunes download. For more information, see www.pieta.ie.
12 April 2012 GAZETTE 19
GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS
Supported by AIB
Interview: Antonio Macari, owner of Macari 66
Cooking the best in fresh at Macari 66 ANTONIO Macari’s parents came to live in Ireland in the late 1950s and early ’60s, respectively. Borza Cafe on Braemor Road in Churchtown, was owned by Antonio’s aunt and uncle and his mother was working there at the time. She met and married Antonio’s dad soon after. They went on to open a successful business, Macari’s, in 1966 at Harold’s Cross, but in 1972, they moved back to Italy. Antonio was only five years old, so he was brought up in Italy until he decided to come back to Ireland in 1993. He worked in Borza’s, in Tallaght, for a few months until he was given an opportunity to run the new Roma takeaway in Lucan Village, then a restaurant in Terenure and another takeaway. In the year 2000, he co-founded Italtiles, a bathroom and tiles company, with a friend. It had showrooms in Dunshaughlin, Co Meath, and he was involved until 2008 when he sold his shares. He spent some time back with Borza’s again, which has always been his second home, until last year, when he decided to open Macari 66. The number 66 is very significant to him because his dad opened Macari’s in Harold’s cross in 1966, where it used to be a few doors down from the cinema. He kept it in the name to distinguish him from the other Macaris. He then decided to do things a bit different from other chippers and cook fresh fish while you wait. His beef and chicken burgers are home-made and use Irish beef and chicken, and he fries with palm oil only.
WHERE TO PLACE € 10,000 Q – I have €10,000 to invest. Would my best option be to put it off my tracker mortgage and keep same repayments to reduce the term ? Or another option, to buy prize bonds ? Thanks. Declan – Blanchardstown A - There are a number of factors that must be considered in making investment decisions. Age, family and income are the three major considerations, along with current savings and investments strategies – do you have a Rainy Day Fund ? Ideally, three to six months net annual income in an accessible account for three reasons : 1. Emergencies (your engine packs in) 2. Sudden loss of income (one of you loses your job) 3. Investment opportunity (buying that le Broquy for half nothing !) Tracker rates are 1% currently and possibly likely to go even lower for the next 24 months. Therefore, you CAN earn more on deposit than you can save by paying off your tracker mortgage. You are probably paying c. 1.75% interest on your mortgage. Best demand deposit is 3.25% ( KBC Bank – email me for details ) or net 2.275%... over 0.5% more than your mortgage is costing. Investec Bank also offer 4.52% (net 3.164%... 1.314% greater) on an 18month fixed deposit account. As regards Prize Bonds, you are subject to the
Antonio Macari, owner of Macari 66
vagaries of chance. While you do have a greater chance than the Lotto, those chances are still slim,
Q&A
but Prize Bonds are a good option in a balanced portfolio.
Q: When you were a kid, what did you want to be? A: An airplane pilot.
Q: What part of your working day do you ‘delegate’? A: Most of the cleaning, which
ern Ireland – David Norris or Jedward? A: Probably Jedward.
Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously? A: Fancy restaurants and on
Q: What was your first job? A: Serving sweets and ice
I supervise anyway.
Q: What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/ iPad? A: A lot of Pink Floyd, Red Hot
holidays.
cream at the Borza on Braemor Road in 1980.
Q: And your first pay cheque? A: Twenty pounds. Q: When did you start your present job? A: November, 2011. Q: What is the best thing about your job? A: I suppose it’s that I am the
Q: What’s currently on your desk that shouldn’t be? A: A holiday brochure, even though I can’t go right now!
Q: What sport do you follow? A: Football and the Six Nations’ rugby.
Q: What sport can you play? A: Football.
boss!
Q: What habits would you like to lose? A: Eating too much!
Q: Have you ever done a job you loathed? A: No, not really.
Q: At the moment, what are you looking forward to? A: Definitely a holiday.
Q: Have you achieved anything that you once thought you could not pull off? A: My house, I guess.
Chili Peppers and other rock groups.
Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook? A: Mostly my friends status’. Q: What was your last Tweet/ status update? A: I shared a joke. Q: Describe your dream meal? A: It would have to be my wife’s lasagne and my mum’s homemade sausages.
Q: What is your guilty music/ TV or movie pleasure? A: Rock music.
Q: Who would you rather have dinner with – Enda Kenny or Dame Edna? A: Definitely together at the
Q: Who best represents mod-
same table.
Contact John with your money questions at
jlowe@moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing
Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own? A: Six, plus four or five pairs of
director of Money Doctor
sport shoes.
Q: What was your worst holiday experience? A: I’ve never had a bad holiday. Q: Describe your dream holiday? A: A round-the-world trip of three months, at least.
Q: What would be your dream job? A: I would love to win the lotto and then do charity work fulltime.
Q: What do you plan to do when you retire? A: Travel as much as I can afford to.
SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS ADVERTISE WITH THE GAZET TE CALL 60 10 240
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20 GAZETTE 12 April 2012
GazettePROPERTY PROPERTY
BLANCHARDSTOWN: DETACHED FOUR-BEDROOM PROPERTY
Redwood rises high in Hollystown homes Interiors at Barnageeragh Cove
SKERRIES: RANGE OF PROPERTIES FOR SALE
Captivating Cove for new buyers Hooke & MacDonald and Grimes Real Estate Alliance are opening showhomes on the waterfront at Skerries, at Barnageeragh Cove this weekend, and already only a small number of properties remain in the soughtafter development. The specification in Barnageeragh Cove is well above normal standards, both internally and externally. The contemporary houses and apartments are nestled amidst grounds that incorporate a blend of hard and soft landscaping, with feature seating areas and pathways providing residents with a soothing environment. In every property, kitchens are finished to a high standard as per the individual showhomes, and bathrooms and en suites focus on hygiene and clean modern lines. The bedrooms feature contemporary wardrobes, while all the living spaces boast fine finishes. The extra-large terraces are one of the main features of design of the apartments providing above-average outdoor space to residents. There is high-efficiency gas condensing boiler, WormGlo central heating system, with contemporary style Stelrad radiators. All the houses and apartments at Barnageeragh Cove are covered by the ten-year HomeBond Guarantee Scheme. The two bedroom apartments (70 sq m / 760 sq ft) are priced from €150,000; the three-bedroom duplexes (114 sq m / 1,230 sq ft) are priced from €220,000; and the threebedroom-plus study houses are priced from €295,000 (125 sq m / 1,350 sq ft).
SHERRY Fitzgerald are bringing No 38 Redwood, Hollystown, Dublin 15, a detached four-bedroom property in showhouse condition, to the market for the asking price of €315,000. The best quality fixtures and fittings adorn this turnkey property, situated near Hollystown Golf Course, and it further benefits from a landscaped, sunny, southwest facing rear garden with water feature, splitlevel patio and garden lighting. Inside, the accomodation, which extends to 1,360 sq ft, comprises of an entrance hall with Canadian solid hardwood flooring. There is particularly good understair storage here also. The oversized guest WC is elegant in its simplicity with quality wall and floor tiling, compris-
ing WHB and WC. The living and reception room benefits from dual aspect, with a bay window to the front and a picture window and double glass doors which open to the rear garden. A contemporary stylestone fireplace has a gas inset fire. The kitchen-breakfast room comprises an ivory-fitted kitchen, and is complemented by a deep red-tiled splash back and cream ceramic floor tiles. The electrical appliances are mainly topof-the-range Neff appliances, such as a double oven, five-ring gas hob, chimney-style extractor fan. There is also an integrated fridge freezer and dishwasher. Tall, double, glass doors open to the patio and rear garden, and a separate window to the side of the kitchen fills this room
with light. There is access to the utility room from here, which is plumbed for a washer and dryer. The condenser gas boiler is housed here and this room is ideal for further storage. The master bedroom is decorated with great flair and imagination, containing built-in wardrobes and triple windows maximising light. The flooring in all of the bedrooms upstairs is high-quality semi-solid. The master bedroom is also en suite, with cream ceramic wall and floor tiling and a Merlyn shower enclosure. The second bedroom is also en suite, a double guest-room with dual windows and built-in wardrobes. Bedroom three is another excellent double room with same flooring and quality-fitted wardrobes.
Number 38 Redwood, Hollystown in Dublin 15, is on the market for €315,000
The master bathroom is fully tiled, comprising bath with shower attachment, WHB and WC. Outside, the garden has a parking bay for two cars to the front, and dual
entrances to the landscaped south-west- facing rear garden. For more information, contact Michelle Curran at Sherry FitzGerald on 01 820 1800.
CASTLEKNOCK: TWO-BED GROUND FLOOR APARTMENT FOR €245,000
Courtly sought-after apartment SHERRY FitzGerald in Castleknock are bringing No 3 Castleknock Court, Castleknock, Dublin 15, a two-bed ground-floor apartment, one of just eight apartments in this sought-after development, to the market for the asking price of €245,000. Built to extremely high standards and benefiting from a recent total refurbishment, this property is in walk-in-condition, with an upgrade of wiring, plumbing and new double-glazed windows throughout. The ceilings have even been re-plastered to remove the previous stipple plastering. This property is further enhanced by having its own hall door and, there-
The interior of No 3 Castleknock Court
fore, no shared communal hallway. Built to extremely high standards and benefitting from a recent total refurbishment, this property is in walk-in-condition, with an upgrade of wiring, plumbing and new
double-glazed windows throughout. The new kitchen and electrical appliances are bound to appeal. The accommodation, which extends to 700 sq ft, comprises an entrance hall with laminate floor-
ing and a storage closet/ cloakroom which affords ample storage space for a clothes dryer, and there is a separate hotpress. There is a large open plan living/dining room with matching flooring. Decorated in neutral cream paint finishes and cream-painted woodwork, the room also features wood surround fireplace has an electric fire. A large glass sliding patio door opens to a sunny balcony which overlooks communal gardens. The new kitchen in the property is in high-gloss cream with wood veneer trim and matching countertops. An electric oven, ceramic hob, extractor fan and washing machine are
included, and the floor is tiled in cream ceramic and there is a very attractive natural stone splash back and window sill. Both bedrooms are spacious double rooms with built-in wardrobes, while the bathroom comprises a shower, washhand basin and WC, tiled flooring and extensive wall tiling. Castleknock Court is located at the top of Beechpark Avenue at the junction with Castleknock Road, right in the heart of the village. Viewing is by appointment and can be arranged by contacting Michelle Curran at Sherry FitzGerald in Castleknock on 01 820 1800.
12 April 2012 GAZETTE 21
GazetteMOTORS MOTORS
Edited by Cormac Curtis
Renault Clio gets a fresh design HERE is an awful lot of buzz going around about new compact cars entering the market this year, such as the Skoda CitiGo, VW up! and the Seat Mii. But, there are still other models around that should not be dismissed altogether, simply because they cost a little more. One such car is the Renault Clio. This week, I spent a few days with the entrylevel Clio, also known as Expression, and it is certainly a useful and eyecatching little motor. The model I drove was of the three-door variety, which is always a good test of practical design when there are two kids under the age of seven to ferry around. When it comes to passengers, the idea of buck-
T
ling in the kids in the back seat of any threedoor car always fills me with dread, but the reality is rarely all that bad. The front seats in the Clio Expression do move quite freely, and the handle for tilting and sliding the seats is easy to get at and operate. One trap this Clio doesn’t fall into is using overly-long front doors. There are quite a few small cars that go large on the doors to make passenger access that bit easier – but that often leaves the driver with a heavy weight close, and, more often than not, swinging wildly against the next car in the car park. So far, so practical. Where the Clio does make a statement is with its design. Without going com-
RoadSigns Road Signs JAGUAR CONFIRMS PRODUCTION OF F-TYPE: JAGUAR
The Renault Clio – also known as the Expression – is an attractive entry-level, three-door vehicle, with a subtle look that strays from recent Renault designs for a more refined style, replete with plenty of useful features
SPECS: RENAULT CLIO CO2 emissions: (g/km) 132 Consumption: 8.3 litres/100km 1.2-litre 16-valve Fuel tank: 55 litres Fuel type: Ethanol/ unleaded €12,990 for 1.2-litre
pletely over the top, the car does stand out nicely from the crowd. The front grille is low and large, almost giving it the look of a basking shark. Just over this grille, the headlights have a stretched look, as
they wrap from the front back towards the windscreen, really lending some expression to the front end. There’s also fog lights that give a little bit more personality to the whole affair. In terms of spec, the Clio Expression may be the entry-level model, but it does have quite a bit on offer. It comes with a threeyear/100,000km warranty, as well as ABS with EBD (electronic brake distribution) and electric windows up front. There is an 80W radio-
CD MP3 with a separate display, and four speakers that can also be operated from controls on the steering column. The back seats get three headrests, and an electronic immobiliser is also standard. In the rear, there are Isofix points on the seats, and the three-door model has Isofix points on front passenger seat. The rear seats also fold down to allow for larger items in the boot. There are a host of airbags, a multifunction trip computer, Renault’s Anti Intruder Device (RAID),
as well as remote central locking and a normalsize temporary spare wheel. The interior is dark grey cloth upholstery, and there are attractive chrome inserts on the dashboard and steering wheel. Coming in at €12,990 for the 1.2-litre model, the price is a little steeper than some other, high-profile entries in to the market, but with Renault’s various tradein offers, there are sure to be plenty of ways to bring that price down a bit.
Skoda Ireland to sponsor Robert Barrable Rally Team SKODA Ireland are sponsoring rally driver Robert Barrable and his team, Robert Barrable Rally Team, as he takes part in the Circuit of Ireland rally. A native of Swords, Barrable is a former Billy Coleman Award winner and 2010 British and Irish Citroen Racing Trophy Champion. The rolling sponsorship agreement will see Skoda Ireland support the Robert Barrable Rally Team with additional team infrastructure, including the provision of branded
merchandise, marketing, PR support and a team hospitality unit as well as investment towards event costs. This season, Robert is competing in the latest specification ex-works Skoda Fabia S2000 rally car. Last weekend’s Circuit of Ireland Rally formed the third round of the global Intercontinental Rally Challenge (IRC). The circuit of Ireland is the second-oldest rally in the world. Steeped in history, many epic battles can be recounted
after almost 80 years of rallying on the Emerald Isle. Skoda has previously tasted success at the event with Eugene Donnelly and Paddy Toner winning in 2009 with a Skoda Fabia WRC. Speaking at the announcement of the new sponsorship deal, Barrable said: “I’m delighted to have such a great brand like Skoda supporting the team, the Skoda Fabia S2000 is a fantastic rally car; the added support from Skoda Ireland will hopefully lead to further suc-
cess this season.” Raymond Leddy, marketing manager of Skoda said: “Skoda Ireland is very pleased to be able to support rising Irish Sports stars like Robert and we hope this sponsorship can help him further his career. We can see the potential in Robert and are delighted to be involved.” For information on Robert Barrable Rally Team please go to: http:// robertbarrable.com/ Or follow him http:// twitter.com/#!/RBarrableRally
Skoda Ireland are sponsoring rally driver Robert Barrable and his team
has confirmed that it will be bringing an all-new sports car to production – the F-TYPE. Speaking at the New York auto show, Adrian Hallmark, global brand director, Jaguar Cars, said: “We showed the C-X16 concept in September 2011, and the reaction to it has been so positive that we’ve accelerated our development of an all-new Jaguar sports car. “The core appeal of Jaguar’s cars is their sporting heart, and that heart will beat stronger than ever before in the F-TYPE.” Full F-TYPE technical and range details will be announced later in 2012. It will go on sale in mid-2013.
22 GAZETTE 12 April 2012
GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Relaxing in the elegant surroundings of Ballymaloe
Valletta, the capital of Malta
The sixth-annual star-studded Isle of MTV Malta music festival is a must-see for music lovers
THE successful Isle of MTV Malta music festival will be taking place in Malta this year for the sixth consecutive year on June 26. The music and entertainment organisation has already confirmed the attendance of multi-platinum selling musician and producer, Will.I.Am, in what promises to be a stellar line-up. The star-studded event will take place in Floriana, Valletta, and is a must-see for all music lovers. Concorde Travel is currently offering package holidays to this, or the neighbouring resorts, for the dates around the event. Early booking is recommended as availability is limited. Departing on June 21 for seven nights, stay at the three-star Bayview Apartments, in Sliema, on a self-catering basis, based on four sharing a twobedroom apartment, from €654pp; the three-star Bayview Apartments, in Sliema, on a self-catering basis, based on two sharing a studio apartment, from €674pp; the three-star Tal Fanal Complex, in Gozo, on a self-catering basis, based on four sharing a one-bedroom apartment, plus car hire for the stay, from €684pp. Stay at the four-star Mellieha Bay, in Mellieha, on a half-board basis, in a double/twin room, from €844pp or the five-star Le Meridien Hotel, in St. Julians, on a BandB basis, in a double/twin room, from €874pp. Prices include return flights to Malta, return airport transfers, accommodation and board basis as indicated, and all taxes and charges. To view videos of Malta and Concorde Travel accommodation, go to Concorde Travels YouTube channel at: www.youtube.com/concordetraveldublin To book your Malta break, or for further information visit www.concordetravel.ie or phone (01) 775 9300.
MIMI MURRAY
WHEN the sun shines in Ireland there really is no better place on earth. Our coastline takes on a glistening aquamarine hue, the lush countryside is several shades of green and, as we all know, the craic pores out on to the streets for some al fresco dining and drinking. Just east of Cork city is the lovely village of Shanagarry, which is home to the Allen family estate, Ballymaloe. This beautiful country house is set on hundreds of lush acres, with plenty of elegant country pursuits available right on the grounds. These
include an outdoor pool, a croquet lawn, a tennis court and a small golf course. We only stayed for 24 hours, but the intensely relaxing atmosphere in the house makes it feel like longer. We slept in the Blue Room, in the main house, which has double doors leading out to a very pretty garden, which leads into an area that houses pigs, chickens and a magnificent peacock. No television can leave some guests a little worried about the lack of a diversion on arrival, but we were thrilled to not have the distraction. A trip to Ballymaloe is all
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A spacious, tranquil standard room
about relaxation and dining. Oh, the dining. After a lengthy drive from Dublin, we immediately wanted to sample some of the food, even if it was only a small sampling. I went for the scones with home-made jam, whilst my other half had an open roast ham sandwich – big meaty chunks served on homemade brown bread with lots of pickled cucumbers and coriander. Everything was bursting with flavour – delicious and not a mouthful of their famed relish in sight! After some very sedentary pursuits, including reading and a nap, we decided to explore
the grounds. The estate is breathtaking and we meandered into the nearby craft shop and coffee shop for a look. The walled garden should also be seen. Perfection
And so to dinner. On Friday evenings, they do a hors d’oeurves buffet before the main event, which is really different and gets everyone buzzing about the meal ahead. There was everything from smoked fish, mussels, oysters, lots of delicious vegetables and a selection of pates and terrines. It is tempting to get stuck in here, but that would be inadvisable as there are five more courses to come, including, soup, main, cheese, dessert and coffee with petit fours. Everything is cooked to perfection and is very imaginative. Slowcooked lamb for me and poached monkfish with scallops for him, were perfection. We loved the way our waitress came around with a cheese trolley and the dessert trolley. It was quite 1970s, Fawlty Towers but good fun and something a little different. Plus, the selection was outstanding. The French almond tart was sublime. After that lot, there is nothing more for it than
The Ballymaloe country
an after-dinner drink in the bar or an early night. On many evenings you can find Rory Allen in the drawing room playing traditional music. In fact, you might run into any of the Allens, although we didn’t spot the illustrious Rachel or Darina during our stay. However, the elder matriarch, Myrtle, was on hand to chat to guests. After a very decent night’s sleep, brought on by the good country air, we looked forward to breakfast, which was again to an exceptional standard. We managed another quick jaunt around the gardens before we had to bid a very tearful farewell to Ballymaloe, with a definite promise to return very soon. For information on deals at Ballymaloe House go to www.ballymaloe. ie or check out the Blue Book website on www. irelands-blue-book.ie.
12 April 2012 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 23
Edited by Mimi Murray
TravelBriefs
London tops the polls for second year as most popular overseas destination for Irish travellers
house is set on hundreds of lush acres in the lovely village of Shanagarry, just st east of Cork city
Etihad Airways new service to Kenya expands presence in Africa ETIHAD Airways’ inaugural passenger flight to Kenya touched down at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi, last week. The new daily, twoclass A320 service is the airline’s first passenger service to East Africa and a critically important step in expanding its presence in Africa. The airline will also reach into West Africa with the introduction of flights to Nigeria in July, 2012. Etihad Airways commenced operations to the Seychelles in November, 2011, and Libya in January of this year, building on existing services to Egypt, South
Africa, Morocco and Sudan. An Etihad Airways delegation of senior executives, led by chief commercial officer, Peter Baumgartner, was on the inaugural Nairobi flight. Executives from the airline will meet government officials and local tourism representatives during the visit to Kenya. The delegation will also host an evening reception to celebrate Etihad Airways’ new flights. Etihad Airways President and chief executive officer, James Hogan, said: “We are delighted to introduce Etihad Airways to East Africa. This year will see consider-
able growth for us within Africa as a whole, as we observe strong and emerging markets across the continent. “In particular, this new route services the considerable and growing flow of people and capital between Kenya and north Asia, with major Chinese investment in Africa generating passenger demand in both directions. “We expect to see strong loads to China, including our new destinations – Chengdu and Shanghai – and, of course Beijing, though the schedule allows subfour hour connectivity to key destinations across
Etihad Airways’ inaugural passenger flight to Kenya touched down in Nairobi
north Asia, south-east Asia, the Indian subcontinent and Australia.” The A320 aircraft has 16 Pearl Business class and 120 Coral Economy class seats. Etihad Airways began dedicated cargo serv-
ices to Nairobi in March 2009 and will continue to operate five freightonly flights per week. The combined capacity of passenger and cargo aircraft will allow the airline to transport 340 tonnes of cargo each week.
LONDON has topped the poll for the second year in a row as the most popular overseas destination for Irish travellers, according to the latest Hotels.com Hotel Price Index. The report shows that London was the most visited overseas city by Irish travellers in 2011, beating off competition from places such as New York and Paris to take the top spot. Despite London topping the poll as the most visited city, the US was the most popular country for Irish travellers in 2011, with six American cities in the top 20. New York, Las Vegas, Orlando, San Francisco, Boston and Chicago all featured on the list as travellers took advantage of the strength of the euro against the dollar. Short breaks to European destinations also remained popular in 2011, with Paris, Rome, Berlin, Barcelona, Amsterdam, Madrid and Nice all in the top 20. Closer to home, wellknown soccer cities, such as Liverpool and Manchester, also made the list with Liverpool the fifth most visited destination in 2011. Kate Hopcraft, senior PR manager at Hotels.com, said: “London is always a popular choice for Irish travellers, thanks to its accessibility for both business and leisure travellers. High-profile media events, such as last year’s royal wedding, have really helped keep London top of mind with travellers and, with the Olympics just around the corner, we would expect to see London continuing to be a popular destination. “It was also interesting to see that six out of 20 destinations on the list were US cities, indicating the popularity of the US for Irish travellers all year round.” At home, Dublin was ranked as Ireland’s most popular destination for a ‘staycation’ in 2011, while cultural hot-spot, Galway, took second place. Cork was third on the list while Limerick, the destination with the lowest average price covered by the report, took the fourth spot. The popular picturesque town of Killarney scooped fifth place to make up the list of most popular domestic destinations.
24 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 12 April 2012
GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT
GoingOUT THE PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Springtime Recital
MUSIC lovers are well served by the Dun Laoghaire School of Music’s spring lunchtime rehearsals, which returns to the Pavilion with what promises to be a delightful performance by acclaimed cellist, Sandra Vedras. She will perform music by Bach, Vivaldi, Beethoven, Rachmaninov, and will be accompanied by Declan Fitzpatrick, for a refined recital that will usher in a fresh feeling for the middle of the season. Her lunchtime recital is at 1pm on Saturday, April 14, with tickets priced at €9.50/€6.50.
MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 Cause Celebre
THE social and cultural mores of the 1930s come to the fore in this 1977 play, which is based on a real-life story. Presented by the players of Sandyford Little Theatre, a young chauffeur, and his much older lover, is charged with the murder of her third husband. But who is really on trial, and who will society damn the most? Gender, class and the expectations of 1930s’ morality collide in this engrossing production. The play runs nightly at 8pm until Saturday, April 21, with tickets priced €18/€15.
CIVIC THEATRE 01 885 2622 Our Father
STEFANIE Preissner’s remarkable performance examines abandonment, loss and acceptance as she uses rhyme and rap to explore the death of a parent, as, stanza by stanza, the familiar familial threads of love, birth, betrayal, regret and death are pulled back to create a moving, mesmerising production, courtesy of a rhythmic journey through the language of rap. Our Father runs from Monday, April 16 to Saturday, April 21 at 8.15pm, with a Saturday matinee at 3pm, and with admission priced €16/€10.
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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Group of human soldiers in boat, meet enormously powerful invading alien vessel. Aliens, meet some ants. Still, cinemagoers will know which side to bet on in this latest tale of derring-do on the high seas. Luckily, Rihanna’s on board to help save the day. Hurray!
A sinking feeling ...
Kate’s left all at sea by a brash film that’s sure to leave critics floundering, but should make a splash at cinemas I KATE CROWLEY
IF I ever find Liam Neeson trying to stuff any kind of cheap flyers through my letterbox (you know, for any kind of local takeaway or taxi firm, that kind of thing), I swear I’ll drop my Mariettas and teapot to race over to the front door as fast as my dainty Size 9s will take me. Once I’ve flung open the front door, I swear, I’ll grab Mr Neeson by the strap of his leaflet delivery bag and drag him into the front parlour, ready to grill him on some of the roles he’s been taking on in recent years. After all, choosing to enlist for a (brief) role as an admiral in Battleship doesn’t seem to have quite the same gravitas of other roles he’s had in the past, right? (Are you listening to me, Oskar?) I’m sure that, like the rest of the Crowley household, my dear readers can both instantly relate to
FILM OF THE WEEK: Battleship ## (12A) 131 mins Director: Peter Berg Starring: Liam Neeson, Rihanna, Alexander Skarsgard, Brooklyn Decker, The Tall One, The Sidekick, The Captain, Aliens
OUR VERDICT: TIMBERS are left well and truly shivered by the bombastic antics in this tale. It messes about a bit with the standard Hollywood trope of Vastly Superior Invading Aliens Get Spanked By Primitive Hoomans, but its cheerfully enthusiastic approach to chaos and destruction will delight audiences as much as deafen them. Intellectually empty, it’s an adrenaline-packing production that’ll do well.
the raw tension and stress involved with the classic game, complete with endless shouts of “G7!”, “E3!”, and the like, eventually culminating in the indignant coup de grace: “You sunk my battleship!” Not, one may imagine, what one might call obvious source material for a $250 million blockbuster, but hark! What sound of barrel-scraping breaks through yonder window? Given that the thought of Liam Neeson playing Battleship against, I dunno, a CG panda, or a CG turnip (voiced by Eddie Murphy) for 90
minutes probably didn’t lead to high-fives at the movie mogul meeting, instead, we arrive at the completely logical and inexplicably previously omitted element needed to complete Battleship’s appeal – aliens. Yes, that’s right, a bunch of themtharr extreeturresteeal folk have suddenly started splashing about in the ocean, where, as luck would have it, Admiral
Neeson (oh, and Rihanna) are standing by, ready to do a lot more than shout “F6!” from the deck. (As normal for any film with plucky military types saving the day, I completely fail to remember character names, ending up with The Tall One or The Captain or The Sidekick – as such, it’s just easier to remember The Neeson or The Rihanna here.) With several ships happening to be in the area at the time, and caught unawares by the sudden a p p e a rance of vast (and vastly superior) invading alien vessels, it’s not long before the aliens have successfully turned
pretty much all of the ships they come across into rather unsuccessful submarines, and started trashing urban areas, too. Oh dear. Can the sailors wipe the deck with the aliens, or will there be an early bath for humanity? Well, you’ll get plenty of bang for your buck with this one, which is, basically, a much wetter version of Transformers. No doubt it’ll float yer boat if you’re one of those landlubbers that’s happy to send your brain on shore leave for a while, but Cap’n Crowley here found it all to be a little bit fishy. Now. Hollywood. I have a fandabidozi idea for a new film, with car chases, a love triangle, a hot chick, and a nervewracking finale shootout on top of the Chrysler Building. It’s called “Tiddlywinks”. Call me.
Meet Admiral Shane (Liam Neeson, in a not especially memorable role)
12 April 2012 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 25
GazetteGAMING GAMING
Gaming and its potential for a negative impact on kids SHANE DILLON
LAST week, The Guardian published an interesting story that emerged at the Association of Teachers and Lecturers’ annual conference, in which the negative aspects of gaming were having on some children were discussed. That word – “some” – is very important, as it is impossible to argue otherwise that regular exposure to violent and adult games has no effect on some children. At the conference, it was discussed that many psychologists were reporting negative behavourial traits in young children who played computer games extensively – of most note, and unsurprisinly, there were some worrying trends associ-
ated with young children playing games designed for teenagers, or adults. (Given that some of my siblings are teachers, these comments and insight backed up much of the anecdotal evidence I’ve heard from the coal face, in addition to my personal experience.)
Suggested It was suggested that many children who experienced such content (primarily, violent computer games) were prone to be more violent, potentially at greater risk to social exclusion, more physically sedentary, and other such worrying traits. Without wishing to sound too professorish, I’ve been gaming for more than 30 years, from the earliest days of home
computer gaming, so I’ve probably got more insight into gaming than an awful lot of people – and parents – out there. With this in mind, while I’m passionate about gaming, and still can enjoy games from many points of view, I’m also much more aware, lately, of the ways in which gaming is still largely regarded by many parents and adults as, “you know, for kids”. In this way, I’ve been pretty horrified by the increasing sight, and sound, of young children playing completely inappropriate games, along with teens also being needlessly exposed to gory, graphic content, Having just trotted past 40, my teenage years are some way past, although I can still (just about)
While many games that revel in slapstick violence can be age-friendly for all the family (such as Angry Birds, left), many other titles are rated 18+ for clear reasons (such as Grand Theft Auto IV, right) – yet many parents remain unconcerned about the potential negative impacts that such titles may have on their children
remember all of the things I, and my peers, did as teens in the 1980s, including the then media frenzy over “video nasties”, and the like, and how willing – of course – my friends and I were to dabble with our first steps into the adult world. However, while of course games, and gaming, can be wonderful pastimes, and fun for families to share and spend time together with, it’s worrying indeed that too many parents don’t seem to know, or care, what their children are playing. It’s safe to say that the
vast majority of parents wouldn’t know one end of a claymore from another – or, indeed, what a claymore is – but it’s a pretty safe bet that their sevenyear-old son does, given the amount of six- or seven-year-olds I’ve heard running around with guns and mines in games like the Call of Duty, or Battlefield franchises, with pretty disturbing language to boot. While of course “play” takes many forms, and any child psychologist worth his or her salt would tell you that violent, exploratory play is a normal part
Control the Force with this great Kinect competition HERE at The Gazette Group, we’ve teamed up with XBox to offer readers another great Kinect prize. Following on from the recent launch of Kinect Star Wars for Xbox 360, five lucky readers can be in with a chance to win a copy of the game. Using the Kinect sensor, Kinect Star Wars allows fans to physically hone their Jedi skills, wield the power of the Force in their hands, pilot iconic ships and vehicles, rampage as a vicious Rancor monster or even dance with iconic Star Wars characters. Using full body motions, players can live out the ultimate Star Wars fantasy to use the Force, battle with a Lightsaber and more – no controller required.
To be in with a chance to win your copies, simply email The Gazette with the answer to the following statement: Complete the following Kinect for Xbox 360 tagline: A. You are the boss B. You are the controller C. You are the best Email your answer, with the subject line “Kinect”, before 5pm on Friday, April 20, to: competition@gazettegroup. com. All correct entries will be entered into a draw, and five winners will be selected at random to win a copy, which will then be posted out. One entry per person.
Five readers can feel the Force and win a copy of Kinect Star Wars, for the XBox 360
of child development, as boundaries are explored and defined, gaming’s potential negative impact for some (but by no means all) children needs greater policing by parents.
While it’s clear that gaming is an acceptable, and welcome, part of children’s lives today, it’s to be hoped that parents take a greater interest in what, exactly, is being played.
GAZETTE
26 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 12 April 2012
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GazetteSPORT
SPINNING AROUND Stephen Halpin on his return to the top level of cycling: Page 29
ADVENTURE RACE: RACE OVER WICKLOW MOUNTAINS SET TO CHALLENGE ATHLETES
Competitors set for WAR at Glendalough sport@gazettegroup.com
THEY say that war is hell, and this weekend sees an opportunity to put that maxim to the test when one of the t o u g h e s t a d ve n t u r e races in Ireland, the 53 Degrees North Wicklow Adventure Race (WAR) takes place at Glendalough. On Saturday, April 14, over 600 competitors will run, cycle and kayak through some of
the most beautiful scenery in Ireland. There is a choice of three courses for competitors new to the adventure race scene. For those serious tough guys and girls, there is the full WAR course of 75km, which takes in 21km of mountain running, 52km of cycling and 2km of kayaking. T h e c o u r s e t a ke s competitors along the Spink Run, over the Sally Gap, along the
challenging Djouce run before ending with kayaking on Lough Dan. There is the shorter WA R- S p o r t o p t i o n , which will take in similar spectacular scenery and route, but which will total only 44km. And, for the first major race of 2012, there is the new WAR-Mini option, which avoids the gruelling heights of the Spink Run, but will be equally as challenging for new converts.
Former Ireland and Leinster player Shane Byrne celebrates finishing his first WAR event
The 53 Degrees North WAR series of adventure races will be run to the BS8901 standard. The standard defines the requirements for a sustainability event management system to
ensure an enduring and balanced approach to economic activity, environmental responsibility and social progress relating to events. Event T-shirts will be made for 100% recycled
polyester (each is the equivalent of five plastic bottles). And instead of the traditional single use plastic goodie bags, distributed at the end of the event, 53 Degrees
North WAR goodie bags will be reusable drawstring bags. For more information, and to register for the race, log on to www. wicklowadventurerace. com.
28 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 12 April 2012
GazetteSport Sport
Some of the action during the skills session
Ciara Colvin, Katie Duggan and Shauna Carton
Conor Cusack and Colm Cooper
Training day Gooch goes to school in Dublin 15 C
OLAISTE Pobail Setanta in Phibblestown was delighted to host Colm Cooper, the acclaimed Kerry footballer also known as The Gooch, to the school recently. In his role as AIB National Youth Ambassador, Colm visited the school to speak to the transition year students about the AIB Build a Bank Challenge programme. When he was in the school, he took the opportunity to coach their young footballers from first and second year. He spent over an hour with the teams working on football skills, and all the children benefited from spending time with the All-Ireland winning player.
Pupils and staff with Kerry footballer, Colm Cooper. Pictures: Conor O’Mearain
Some of the action during the skills session
Colm “The Gooch” Cooper with Gavin Keyes
12 April 2012 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 29
in association with
Comeback kid is ready for the Ras
FastSport
Stephen Halpin has bounced back from a tough year with the kind of form that sees him on the verge of a huge 2012, says STEPHEN FINDLATER Stars come out for the
AFTER a year ravaged by a nightmare series of injuries and infections, Swords Cycling Club’s Stephen Halpin is lining up a rejuvenated 2012. Relocating to his native city from Belgium, and a full pre-season, sees him in positive mood, and the results have begun to flow for Halpin. He took two big wins in March, as he spies top form ahead of May’s An Post Ras. Those wins included the Ras Naomh Finan in Clonard, Co Meath, and the Carrick Wheelers Cup in Carrick-onSuir. It gives a confidence fillip that he can get back on track af ter an 18-month period wracked by ankle problems, as he told GazetteSport. “I was injured for a lot of last year, from October to maybe April or
May. Then I came back, did a few weeks training and then went into the Ras very unfit. “I came out of that and got a blood infection and chronic fatigue,
Nicolas Roche lamenting the long-term effects in recent years. “It’s very important – that base training in the winter months – your fitness can be hit
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‘In a race, anything can happen, so I go out with every intention of winning.’
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which put me out for the rest of the season.” It tested his resolve but he cites the continued support of his Swords’ clubmates and his sponsors, Metaltek Scott, who stuck with him despite the problems. S u c h i s s u e s h ave afflicted a number of Irish pro riders in recent seasons, pre-season struggles leading to ongoing mid-season issues, with Phil Lavery and
and miss all year and then missing a couple of months of racing; you’re playing catch-up throughout the year. It’s hard to discipline yourself to take it slowly. I learned that the hard way last year, coming back too soon. “But this year has been really good. I’ve been disciplined and the positives that came from last year were that I was really motivated. I missed it so much last
Stephen Halpin, in blue, training with the An Post team last year
year, the winter was good enough this year, no snow to disrupt the training camps with the team, so it was very productive.” “In the space of a week, I won in Clonard and then in Carrick-onSuir. That, in itself, is very good for the confidence.” A crash in Essex slowed that momentum while a trip to Scotland for the Tour Doon Hame was also fruitless, but Halpin is content with where he is at. A fter five years in Belgium, he recently moved back to Dublin, moving in with top pro, Phil Deignan – a stage winner in the Vuelta in 2009 – in Terenure, something which he sees as another boost. “It happened by chance; we were both looking for a place to stay. It’s great, training with one of the best. “You do pick up bits as you go along, like diet, routines and treatments … little things that make a difference. “Living in Dublin, when the contract came about in the UK with Metaltek, it was the perfect opportunity to get a year at home. I could be living in London and a race would come up in Newcastle and you’re looking at a five-hour drive … so I’m probably better off living in Dublin, with the airport
going to loads of locations. “Having family and friends around does make a huge difference rather than being abroad. You do miss things, so it works out better for your mentality to training and overall for your performance. “My programme with the team has been sorted since January. I know now what I’m doing for the rest of the year so it gives me time to plan where I go and when. I don’t need to be on call, like I was in Belgium.” And it leaves the elements in place for him to try and make a big impression in the Ras in the next month despite the growing crew of Irish pro cyclists. “It’s the next big one. I’ll go out to win a stage but, if it happens that I’m in contention for the GC, I’ll race everyday. “A s f o r t h e I r i s h nationals, any where in the top five or ten would be great. But you see the likes of Matt Brammeier a couple of years ago winning it, so anything’s possible on the day. “The good thing about having more than just one or two pros, they can mark each other out on the day and, in a one-day race, anything can happen, so I’ll go out with every intention of winning it.”
Great Ireland Run 2012
THE biggest ever cast of celebrities from stage and screen are set to take part in the SPAR Great Ireland Run in the Phoenix Park, Dublin on Sunday, April 15 as they come together to support a range of charities. Among the leading lights confirmed to take part are Ugly Betty star Eric Mabius (above), Boyzone’s Keith Duffy, radio and TV talk-show presenters, Matt Cooper and Craig Doyle, former Miss World Rosanna Davison, Diarmuid Gavin, Irish actor Jason Barry and Coronation Street star John Michie (Karl Munro) among others. Many of the celebrities are taking part to support the events nominated charities, the Marie Keating Foundation and the Jack & Jill Children’s Foundation. Others are running for Leukaemia And Lymphoma Research and other good causes. Up to 10,000 runners, walkers and joggers are expected to participate in the event, which gets under way at 1pm and is shown live on RTE television. A further 1,200 children have entered the Mini and Junior Runs for five-to-eight and nine-to-15 -year-olds. These runs will make up the largest ever children’s running event in Ireland. The Junior Run starts at 11:15 followed by the Mini Run at 11:30. The Mini and Junior Runs take place over a flat 2.5km course, which uses the same start and finish areas of the adult SPAR Great Ireland Run, which starts at 1pm. The nominated charity for the Mini and Junior Runs is the Baby Max Wings of Love Fund. Entries for the SPAR Great Ireland Run are now closed, and those entering are required to collect their numbers and run packs at Lifestyle Sports in Blanchardstown during trading hours between noon on Thursday, April 12 and 4pm on Saturday, April 14.
30 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 12 April 2012
GazetteSport Sport FastSport
Life Style Sports offer Euro 2012 competition LIFE Style Sports in Blanchardstown Retail Park will this weekend host the quest to find the ultimate Irish sports fan. This fan will feature in the Life Style Sports window campaign in all its 62 stores nationwide and win a trip to Euro 2012 to see the boys in green take on Spain, including flights, accommodation and match tickets. From 10am to 4pm this Sunday, April 15, the Life Style Sports store in Blanchardstown will host the fervent fans as they attempt to walk away with the title and the much-soughtafter prize of the Spain match package. Vivienne Bushell, marketing director of Life Style Sports said: “We want fans to come to the store as if they were arriving at City Stadium in Poznan or PGE Arena in Gdansk. Nothing is too over the top or too green for us. “We are encouraging everyone over the age of 18 to come bedecked in their green white and gold.” A judging panel, which includes current Irish squad member Stephen Hunt will make the final decision. All fans will be accommodated on a firstcome, first-serve basis and must be available on Monday, April 16, for their Life Style Sports photoshoot. Stephen, who will drop into Life Style Sports in Blanchardstown at 1.30pm on Sunday, said: “The support we get at home and abroad from our fans is just amazing. To see a stadium awash with the green, white and gold gives you such a great feeling and lifts the team. The fans really are the 12th man.” While in Poland, the Life Style Sports Ultimate fan will blog on the Life Style Sports Facebook page and post photos so that they can share the excitement and give a sense of the atmosphere at the stadiums to all the Facebook followers. Find out more on the Life Style Sports Ultimate Fan, and how simple it is to get involved via Facebook www.facebook.com/lifestylesports.
SOCCER: MORE UNDER-11 SUCCESS AT CLOVERHILL FOR TEAM
Castleknock Celtic Under-11As celebrate their 4-3 victory over Ballyfermot United in the semi-final of the Brendan Coyne Cup
Celtic reach another cup final BRENDAN COYNE CUP Castleknock Celtic Ballyfermot United
4 3
I sport@gazettegroup.com
CASTLEKNOCK Celtic’s Under-11A team took on Ballyfermot United in the semi-final of the Brendan Coyne Cup in Cloverhill last week and prevailed to claim their place in the second final for this age level in the last fortnight. On a very murky night, the Celtic lads took time to get into their stride by which time a lot of damage had been done. The visitors were shellshocked by three goals after the home side went
Route 1, and it paid dividends amid hesitancy, ricochets and a lot of luck. When Celtic got into gear, their response was powerful. They played skilful football as the rain came down in stair rods. On the quarter hour, the ball was pushed out to the right wing, where Brian Dalton ran forward, picked his spot and gave the keeper no chance, bringing the score to 1-3, and lifting the gloom. Four minutes later, Nomah Erediawa struck with his left leg, rifling his shot low inside the
Tourist season: Coolmine welcome Warrington teams COOLMINE played host last Saturday to English touring side, Warrington, on their second visit to Ireland in the space of three years. Their entourage consisted of nearly 250 players, coaches and parents, fielding teams from age groups Under-7 up to Under-17. All games were played to a very high standard and the Coolmine’s players headed off to the Aviva for the muchanticipated Heineken cup semi-final between Leinster and Cardiff.
keeper’s near post. The Hoops’ supporters had found their voice as their team were just one down at half-time. After the resumption, Ballyfermot were relying on the odd break to regain a foothold, but it never came. Eight minutes into the second half, the towering Nomah surged forward, and, as he cut in, he unleashed another accurate shot that tied the game. Midway through the second half, Brian Dalton was again in the thick of the action, and this time he struck again from close range, placing
his shot in the bottom right corner. The job was completed, which the fans felt was inevitable from the moment Dalton had put Celtic on their way midway through the first half. While the goalscorers stole the headlines with their clinical finishing, this was a solid team performance, with each individual playing their part. From Andy Cunningham in goal, Charles Mutawe, Eugie Roland, and Alan Elliott in Celtic’s strong backline, captain Vilius Labutis, Jonathon O’Reilly and Conor
Kitching in the middle of the park, and the strike force of Nomah Erediawa and Brian Dalaton up front, all the players played a vital part in seeing Celtic into the final. Adam Kelly was in tremendous form when he came on for the second half. The cup final will take place on the second weekend in May following an exciting year of top-class football. The management team of Robbie Ryan and coach Tony Mantero, himself a Castleknock Celtic veteran, were full of praise for their players.
12 April 2012 CASTLEKNOCK GAZETTE 31
in association with
FOOTBALL: LOCAL PLAYERS HELP TO CLAIM CROWN .
CLUB NOTICEBOARD CASTLEKNOCK THE Clubhouse Appeal is still going
information on how to get your sign
strongly. We have collected €41,500
seen, contact Charlie on 085 110 1008.
to date.
Castleknock Hurling and Football
For more information on the club-
Club invites members (young and
house appeal, log on to castleknock.
younger) to participate in the Great
net/fundraising or call Pearse 086 247
Ireland Run on Sunday, April 15 in the
8961.
Phoenix Park.
Congratulations to Ciaran and the Dublin U-21s on winning the U-21 Leinster final last week. CHFC is offering a cardiac screening
Sponsorship forms are available to download on the website. All club fixtures can be found on the website the week before the game.
service to males and females, aged
2012 Registrations are now due.
from 14 to 35, at a cost of €45 per per-
Form can be downloaded from web-
son. If you are interested, contact the
site.
secretary@castleknock.net or text 086 102 296. Please keep sending in your match reports and photos. All entries are entered into a draw to win prizes each month. Well done to all involved in the Easter Camp. Signs surrounding the main pitch in Somerton are now on sale; for more
To subscribe to our e-Newsletters and text alerts, send email address or number to pro@castleknock.net or 0877532030. New players at all ages and levels are always welcome. Just contact our club coach, Brendan, on 085 132 9397 for details or check the website for contact information on each mentor.
Dublin’s Under-21 footballers were in complete control at Pairc Talteann when they saw off the challenge of Louth
Kilkenny directs the Dubs to Leinster title LEINSTER U-21 FC FINAL Dublin Louth
1-16 0-8
I sport@gazettegroup.com
CASTLEKNOCK’S Ciaran K ilkenny inspired Dublin’s Under-21s to the Cadbury Leinster Under21FC title in emphatic fashion in Pairc Tailteann, Navan last week, claiming the title for the third time in the last four years. K ilkenny ran up a personal tally of 1-7, and the schoolboy’s strength and power was pivotal throughout in a full-forward line which also featured St Brigid’s man, Philly Ryan. Dublin put on what was a dominant performance all round, and there could have been an even wider margin of victory but for some excellent goalkeeping from Louth netminder, Joe Flanagan, coupled with some brave lastditch defending from
the Wee County’s backline. The Dubs’ shooting at times, too, was slightly off course, but that mattered little, as Jim Gavin’s men were too hot for Louth to handle in the scoring department. One forward whose radar did not let him down was Castleknock man, Ciaran Kilkenny, and his contribution helped Dublin to annex their tenth provincial title at this grade. With a stunning personal tally of 1-7, the schoolboy’s strength and power were pivotal throughout. The game was less than two minutes old when Kilkenny palmed an enormous windassisted delivery from Mark Schutte to the net to give his side the dream start. Less than a minute later, Philly Ryan had the ball in the Louth net after slick interplay
in the forward division, but he was adjudged to have been in the small square before the ball and the score was disallowed. D e s p i t e D u b l i n ’s dominance of possession they failed to turn it into scores and it was not until the close of the first half that they gave themselves any breathing space approaching the break. Two points from Kilkenny, and one each for Jack McCaffrey and Paul Hudson, was reward for Dublin’s endeavours as the likes of O’Conghaile, Sean George, and Ciaran Reddin got through a lot of work. The second half followed a similar pattern to the first with the Dublin defence dealing comfortably with whatever Louth could muster. T he Wee County’s chances though were few and far between —
the final wides’ tally of Dublin 14, Louth hitting three, is an indication of what way the traffic flowed all night long in Pairc Talteann. Full-back O’Brien, in his post-game trophy acceptance speech, said he is hoping the side are looking to kick on, saying that their success at provincial level is only “step four of six” in their larger plan, to claim the All-Ireland crown for 2012. Such a situation is one which Martin Skelly, chairman of the Leinster Council, suggested may come to pass when he handed the cup over to O’Brien. “I think we may be looking at not only the Leinster champions, but the All-Ireland champions in a couple of months’ time,” said Skelly. The Dubs now progress to face the Munster champions on Saturday, April 21.
ST BRIGID’S THE senior hurlers face St Jude’s this week in AHL 1. Top inter-county pla yers and
Club Lotto jackpot is still €15,000, and takes place in the Vineyard this Thursday.
coaches will be present at this
Two great league wins for both
week’s Easter camp, including Noel
our adult ladies’ football teams on
McGrath (Tipperary), Philly McMa-
Wednesday.
hon (Dublin) and Colm Crowley (Dublin minor coach). The member ship deadline for players has now passed. Players who haven’t paid their membership will not be allowed train / play until membership is paid. The annual club golf classic takes place in Royal Tara on May 25. Team
Big list of juvenile and adult fixtures this weekend, see website for more. The club is still collecting old mobile phones. Please drop them in behind the bar. New players are always welcome, please contact our club coach, Paul, on 087 915 4748 or email info@ stbrigidsgaa.com.
entry is €400, while tee boxes and
Brigid’s-produced coaching DVD
greens can be sponsored for €200
also now available from Paul! Send
or €100. For more information, con-
your match report and photos to
tact Phil on 086 773 3693.
info@stbrigidsgaa.com.
ST PEREGRINE’S INTER Hurlers have a league game this
There will be promotions and infor-
Thursday at 6.45pm on club pitch v
mation days also set up, so please
Towers.
encourage all to get involved.
Best of luck to Colm and James in
If anybody fancies themselves as an
playing for Fingal v Monaghan this
adult hurling mentor, please contact
Sunday in the final.
Paul Harte.
Thanks to all who attended the Easter camp, it was a great success. There was one winner of the lotto:
Entertainment in the club this Saturday from Santoria, Dublin’s leading soul band .
Well done to Andy Walshe. Numbers
Tesco for Schools initiative is now up
drawn were 1, 4 9 and 12. Jackpot was
and running; please see clubhouse for
€3,800.
details.
Condolences to Martin Aspen and family on the death of his mother.
Club shop vouchers are now available. Details and contacts on the club
Brod club: Further to the initiative
website, CNP.ie, which will be finished
on RTE driven by Bernard Dunne, we
shortly. Follow us on Twitter @per-
are encouraging all our members to
egrinesgaa.
register: https://login.rte.ie/rtesso/ signup/
Bingo continues every Wednesday night in the clubhouse from 8.30pm.
ALL OF YOUR CASTLEKNOCK SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31
KING KILKENNY: Castleknock’s Ciaran kicks huge haul in Dubs’ U-21 final win P31
BLAZING SADDLES: Halpin ready for top return from injury P29
GazetteSPORT
James McGee celebrates his incredible fifth-set victory in the fifth rubber of Ireland’s Davis Cup success against Egypt in Cairo
APRIL 12, 2012
McGee is the prince of Egypt Inspired Castleknock LTC man backs up Bahrain win with truly memorable victory for Ireland in Davis Cup castleknocksport@gazettegroup.com
JAMES McGee hailed his winning shot as the “best of my life” after he produced the winning performance for Ireland to beat Egypt’s Sherif Sabry in Cairo on Monday to secure Group II status in the Davis Cup in 2013. The Castleknock LTC man was forced to endure one of the toughest battles of his tennis career but eventually prevailed in the fifth set of the fifth and final rubber 6-2 5-7 7-5 3-6 6-4, taking match point with a diving volley. Having won Friday’s opening singles date and, in partnership with Sam Barry, Saturday’s doubles rubber, McGee was continuing the brilliant form which brought an ITF Futures title in Bahrain a week earlier. It was a preparation tournament that held him in good stead, acclimatising perfectly to the heat which hovered around the 40 degree mark. But singles losses for an injury-afflicted Conor Niland and Sam Barry meant the tie went right
down to the wire, with McGee needing to beat Sabry to keep Ireland at this level of competition in the world game. The Castleknock man was coping well with the pressure, building a two sets to one lead, but his momentum was stunted when play was officially suspended on Sunday evening by the referee after he deemed the lighting to be unplayable. McGee told GazetteSport it was a situation he found tough to cope with: “I had all the momentum. My opponent was clearly tired and all I hear is the ref saying we’ve got to finish for bad light. “Everyone was patting me on the back but, in the back of my head, I was disappointed. I didn’t get a great night’s sleep because you’re still in the match. “My opponent came out playing incredible tennis. I don’t think he actually missed a ball in that fourth set.” In 40-degree heat the following morning at the El Gezera Sporting Club, Sabry broke McGee to love in the eight game of the fourth set and went
on to win 6-3. With the partisan Cairo crowd baying for blood, thronging the stadium with incessant whistles and screams, McGee summoned one last effort to break early and was on the brink at 5-2. “You wouldn’t believe it. At 5-2, I had match point and a smash right on top of the net to finish it. I just aimed too close to the line. Two of the Irish guys on the team are already running on the court to celebrate and the mark was literally just an inch wide on the clay. “Literally, there was nothing in it but I managed to get another match point.” This time, he managed to turn the tie his way and on to raptured celebrations. “It was probably the best shot of my life. He hit a running forehand cross-court and I got a diving volley to win the match. “The whole court was open for him to hit into and I just leaped from one side of the court to the other and, at full stretch, the ball just tipped onto my racquet and went over the net.”