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April 20 - 26, 2017

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POP-UPS DON’T PREACH  SYLVIA POWNALL PRIESTS from several Dublin parishes pooled their resources to provide a pop-up Easter confessional on Saturday – at Liffey Valley Shopping Centre.

Thinking outside of the confessional box, one of the clever clerics told The Gazette: “We’re

following the lead of Pope Francis who says you have to be out where the people are.”

The padres used their initiative and transformed a vacant retail unit into a drop-in centre offering a space for reflection, prayer, pastoral guidance and a chat. Continued on Page 2

2 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 20 April 2017

HOUSING | COUNTY MANAGER ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR 500 NEW HOMES

Population boom is on the cards for Poolbeg  AISLING KENNEDY

AN ADDITIONAL 500 homes will be built on the Poolbeg peninsula – bringing the total number of dwellings for the area to 3,500.

T he new plans were revealed

by Dublin City Council (DCC) c h i e f e xe c u t i ve O we n K e e g a n a t a recent DCC meeting following 108 submissions about the Poolbeg Strategic Development Zone site during its public consultation.

All of the 3,500 homes will be apartments and it is expected that construction will start in the next few years.

When it is finished, the total population for the new Poolbeg site is expected to be 8,000 people, up by 1,000 since the announcement of the 500 additional homes.

Dublin’s Poolbeg West development will also include an extra 10% affordable housing under revised plans by DCC, bringing the total to 20% affordable housing.

Cllr Patrick Costello (GP) told The Gazette

that although he is eager to see construction started on the new homes, he is pushing for the Department of Housing and DCC to allow for 30% of the housing to be social and affordable.

“It is imperative that the Minister for Housing, Simon Coveney, acts to allow more social housing to help deal with the housing waiting lists that fuel the ongoing homelessness crisis and so far, he has failed to do so.”

Housing Cllr Costello said that he believes there are great plans for the site including the increased housing plans for the SDZ and “the high densities of much needed housing it can deliver.”

He has reservations about how the site will progress however and said: “There is a real risk that the plan will not get the support of councillors as Minister Coveney has not acted to enable more social housing.”

In response, a spokesperson for the Minister for Housing told the Gazette: “It’s entire-

ly a decision of the elected members of the council to vote on the planning scheme for the Poolbeg Strategic Development Zone and to decide on the appropriate mix of residential, commercial, amenity etc. within the site.”

The spokesperson said that the Department engages with DCC regarding the appropriate scale of overall housing needs, for example finding the balance between both home-owner and rental supply as well as social housing units and other specific needs groups such as sheltered housing for elderly.

The spokesperson added: “In our submission to the council as part of the public consultation process on the draft Planning Scheme, we outlined that the scheme could include a policy mechanism, where on an agreed basis, there would be delivery of up to another 10% of its housing yield, which would be accessible in economic terms for households on average industrial wages – possibly in partnership with the voluntary housing sector as a joint venture agreement.”

VALLEY OF PEACE

Continued from Page 1 initiative saw seven priests,

Clondalkin priest Fr Damien Farnon, the brains behind the novel scheme, told The Gazette: “We realised that an increasing number of people are working on Holy Thursday and Good Friday, so they’re just not able to get to church.”

The makeshift chapel – the first of its kind in Dublin – saw a steady stream of worshippers for the five hours it stayed open.

Fr Farnon said: “I was a wee bit apprehensive, but it was a great success. Will we do it again? Yes, definitely.”

He added: “We’re following the lead of Pope Francis who says you have to be out where the people are.

“We knew that whatever most people were doing on Easter Saturday afternoon, they weren’t going to [do it] in the churches, so there was no point in us sitting idle either. I couldn’t get over the number of people, particularly young families, who were stopping by.

From four o’clock on we actually had a queue.”

The Peace in the Valley

two pastoral workers and Neilstown-based Sr Carmel Earls combine their efforts to hear confession, offer blessings and even provide a kids’ pray and play corner.

Sr Carmel said: “For me, it was a new experience of renewal and resurrection for our church. Many stopped off at the information table where I sat, to say ‘thank-you’ for providing the opportunity for them to relax, pray and go to confession.”

Staff at the centre stopped by on their break and students asked for a blessing ahead of their end of year exams.

“It gave the clergy a great boost,” Pastoral worker Frank Brown said. “There was a non-stop flow of people, young and old – people who admitted they had not been to church or confession in 40-odd years.”

Liffey Valley centre operations manager David Ward added: “It was a great success for Sr Carmel and Fr Damien. “It definitely was a case of thinking outside the confessional box.”

FASTNews

A screenshot of the positive test. Picture: @GardaTraffic

Two drug-drivers caught in new Garda checkpoints TWO motorists in Dublin were caught driving under the influence of drugs at the weekend as gardai set up the first ever drug-driving checkpoints.

One motorist tested positive for cocaine after he was stopped on the N4 between Dublin city and Leixlip, while another driver was arrested after he tested positive for cannabis on the Chapelizod Road in West Dublin.

Over the Bank Holiday Weekend, a total of 185 people were arrested for driving under the influence – three of whom were under the influence of drugs.

Gardai rolled out the tests after a new Road Traffic Bill was passed in the Dail and Seanad last December, making it illegal for motorists to drive while under the influence of cannabis, cocaine, opiates (heroin) or benzodiazepines (Valium).

Half a million flock to first ever Cruinniu na Casca OVER half a million people turned out for the first ever Cruinniu na Casca on Easter Monday.

The nationwide free public festival presented by RTE in association with Creative Ireland, Cruinniu na Casca celebrates culture and creativity in contemporary Irish society through a rich variety of live music and dance, talks, coding, theatre, art and music workshops, readings and special events.

Cruinniu na Casca saw four zones in Dublin – Smithfield, Dublin Castle, St Stephen’s Green and Custom House Quay – turned into a festival.

Minister for Arts Heather Humphreys said: “This was truly a day when we came together to celebrate our creativity.”

Yobs plough a stolen truck into Ballyfermot CCTV pole A STOLEN truck was rammed into a CCTV camera pole at Cherry Orchard Park on Easter Monday.

Gardai were on the scene the next day as there is considerable damage done to the pole. It is believed the truck crashed around 7.40pm.

No arrests have been made as yet and Garda investigations are ongoing.

Cllr Daithi Doolan (SF) told The Gazette: “The action was an attempt to undermine the good work going on in Cherry Orchard.

“These criminals will not succeed.”

Anyone with information should contact An Garda Siochana at 01 6667200.

Dublin Gazette Newspapers, Second Floor, Heritage House, Dundrum Office Park, Dublin 14 Tel: 01 - 6010240. Email: sales@dublingazette.com news@dublingazette.com web: www.dublingazette.com twitter: @DublinGazette Visit us on Facebook at DublinGazetteNewspapers

20 April 2017 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 3

Gazette babies are the cutest...

WINNERS | CHECK OUT THE GA-GAZETTE’S SPRINGTIME BONNIE BABIES GORGEOUS JOE O’Carroll is The Gazette’s Spring Bonnie Baby, after a week of frantic voting!

Joe wins a photoshoot worth €180 from Gazette snapper and expert baby photographer Ali, of Alison O’Hanlon Photography.

The silver medals go to super cute Grace Ahern and little smiler Parker Daly, both of whom have won hampers worth €90 from NUK Ireland.

A massive “Thank you” to our many hundreds of readers who took the time to vote either by email or on Facebook. It was a close call, and if we’re honest, everyone who entered was a winner!

4 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 20 April 2017

RETAIL | CLLR MANNIX FLYNN’S CLAIMS CITY CHARACTER BEING ‘ERODED’ REJECTED BY CHAIN, DCC

Trouble brewing as fresh Starbucks outlet opens

 EMMA NOLAN

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

‘We are proud to be part of [DUblin’s] vibrant coffee culture. We have 750 Starbucks [employees] delivering a fantastic experience for our customers where they want to find us.’

DUBLIN CITY Council have been accused of “negligence” as yet ANOTHER Starbucks has opened in the city centre.

The newest branch has opened on Aungier Street in Avalon House – a listed building that operates as a youth hostel.

Nearby are several other Starbucks all within close proximity. Just a short walk away is one on Bishop’s Square (Kevin Street), one on Chatham Street and one on Drury Street.

Branches As well as that, there are branches at St Stephen’s Green, Harcourt Street, Leeson Street, Dawson Street, Dame Street, Temple Bar, North Earl Street, O’Connell Bridge, O’Connell Street, two directly opposite each other on Westmoreland Street, Henry Street, Liffey Street, the Ilac Centre, Georges Quay, Talbot Street (kiosk) and Custom House Quay.

Slightly out of the city centre, there are two in Rathmines that are a three-minute walk from each other, two in Dundrum

Sinn Fein call for a Crumlin Men’s Shed LOCALS in Crumlin are calling for the creation of a Men’s Shed in the area to provide social activities and opportunities for men.

Cllr Ray McHugh (SF) raised the issue at the recent local Area Committee meeting of Dublin City Council.

At the meeting, he requested the council manager to write to the HSE for permission to use the derelict HSE building on Parnell Road, Crumlin for the creation of a Men’s Shed for the area.

Cllr McHugh added:

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

The exterior of the new Starbucks outlet, at listed Avalan House on Aungier Street – an opening

Starbucks spokesperson, defending the opening of another city-centre outlet --------------------------------

which drew scathing criticism from Cllr Mannix Flynn (Ind)

Town Centre, two on Main Street in Blackrock, and three within walking distance in Dun Laoghaire.

On the nor thside, in Blanchardstown, four Starbucks are all within walking distance of each other.

There are 51 Starbucks in total in Dublin, and city councillor Mannix Flynn (Ind) says that they are “eroding the city’s

“A place where men can meet up and socialise with other men to develop friendships and work on projects together, has and will continue to help men with health issues. It will also give a positive feeling to the men and benefit the local community.”

Coast guard pays tribute to missing men THE Irish Coast Guard last week issued an emotional statement a month after the Rescue 116 helicopter crash as a book of condolences was opened in Fingal.

Winch crewman

character” and that DCC are “turning a blind eye”.

Speaking on the latest branch to open on Aungier Street, Cllr Flynn said: “Here you have yet another Starbucks undermining small businesses in the area.

“A lot of work has gone into Aungier Street by all the new independent businesses that have opened there in the last

Ciaran Smith (38), a native of Swords and a resident of Oldtown, and his colleague Paul Ormsby (53), from Ballyfermot, are still missing after their aircraft went down off the Mayo coast on March 14.

Last week, Fingal County Council marked a minute’s silence at the start of its April monthly meeting and a book of condolences was last week opened at County Hall, Swords and the local authority’s civic offices in Blanchardstown.

In an emotional statement, the Irish Coast Guard said: “We will not leave you. You are not alone. Help is on the way. Hold hope.”

few years, and Starbucks is just piggybacking on that.”

In the last few years a number of independent business have opened on the street that was once bypassed by most pedestrians for Camden Street, Wexford Street and Georges Street.

Network cafe, Aungier Danger, Dublin Pizza Company and Scoop have all added a

Warning of fake collectors in Blanchardstown BLANCH locals have been warned to be alert after reports of charity scammers emerged in the area last week.

A statement on the Brookhaven Neighbourhood Watch Facebook page read: “Just had a message ... about young people going around supposedly fundraising for Zambia, claiming to be from Transition Year in Coolmine Community School. We’ve been told they definitely are not.

Please keep an eye out.”

Anyone who notices any suspicious activity

diverse vibrancy to the street since opening.

Cllr Flynn also accused the council of “negligence” for allowing one chain to saturate the city.

‘Authenticity’ “It’s overbearing and garish branding is a visual pollutant that throws out the balance of the streets – these streets with Starbucks on them are losing

can contact Blanchardstown Garda station at 01 666 7000.”

their authenticity.”

A spokesperson for Starbucks said that while they are “not the biggest coffee brand in Dublin we are proud to be part of its vibrant coffee culture”.

They added: “We have 750 Starbucks partners [employees] delivering a fantastic experience for our customers where they want to find us.”

Responding to Cllr Flynn’s comments, DCC said: “Each planning application for development is assessed in terms of the proper planning and sustainable development for an area.

“The majority of the premises that are currently occupied

by Starbucks were previous cafes or restaurants and therefore there would have been no requirement to apply for planning permission for Starbucks to operate out of.”

However, when asked if DCC had a responsibility to prevent the claimed over-saturation of the market and to monitor what is going into premises even if planning permission is not required, they had not responded by the time of going to print.

Doyle threw some shapes upstairs on the bus at the weekend; filmed live on Instagram by his friend, Jack made use of the bus’s poles as he performed a sassy dance to Aaliyah’s More Than A Woman.

It has since been shared almost 2,000 times and was even reported on by UK newspapers.

Student’s bus Call for urgent dancing antics action to tackle go viral online city congestion A YOUNG Dublin student ‘went viral’ after a hilarious video of his dancing on Dublin Bus was filmed.

Trinity student Jack

TRAFFIC congestion in the capital has reached “crisis point” and urgent measures are needed to deal with it, according to

local Fianna Fail TD John Curran.

He raised the issue in the Dail last week and urged Transport Minister Shane Ross to take account of it when reviewing capital investment.

The Clondalkin-based deputy said: “Reviewing the policy on public transport to ensure that services are sustainable and have the capacity to meet the needs of our growing population, is of critical importance.

“There is no future transport strategy in place for how to deal with the expected 401,400 [people] population growth in the Greater Dublin Area by 2030.”

20 April 2017 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 5

FASTNews

Toddler injured after hit by car A THREE-YEAR-OLD girl was rushed to hospital after being struck by a car in Tyrrelstown over the weekend.

The incident happened on Easter Sunday in Ballentree Grove at around 8.15pm. The child was rushed to Temple Street Hospital, where her injuries were described as minor and not life-threatening.

McDonald’s sold for €2.26m A MCDONALD’S drive-thru has sold for €2.26 million, well over the guide price of €1.77 million.

The property in Lucan village also seats 90 customers, with a current passing rent of €130,000 per annum.

The building is in a prime location just outside of Lucan village, and underwent a major refurbishment in April last year.

Open day will be a hot ticket NUTGROVE Fire Station will host an open day on Saturday, April 29 in aid of the children’s autism charity, Snowflakes.

The station’s fire crew will teach families and children about fire safety and there will be teas, coffees, cakes and refreshments for all, along with face painters and a DJ. All are welcome at the event, which will run from 1 to 4pm.

CAMPAIGN | DUB IS USING FIRST-HAND EXPERIENCE TO HELP MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Stephen’s on a mission to make our fair city more disabled-friendly  SYLVIA POWNALL DUBLINER Stephen Cluskey is leading a campaign calling for better access for those with disabilities.

The 32-year-old from Swords, who was paralysed in a freak accident at the age of 18, is the driving force behind the One Simple Change initiative.

The campaign calls on communities to take simple steps to create a more inclusive society for those with higher access needs.

Wheelchair user Stephen – the creator of the award-winning Mobility Mojo – hopes that by sharing his story he can encourage schools, councils, businesses and taxi drivers to get on board.

Stephen was a happy and healthy 18-year-old due to start his Leaving Cert year at Belvedere College when he fell off a bale of hay and broke his neck – and his life changed forever.

Instead of completing his schooling, he ended up in the Mater Hospital and then spent a year and two months at the National Rehabilitation Hospital in Dun Laoghaire.

Reliving the horror of

the accident on August 4, 2002, he said: “As I was sitting there, all of a sudden I felt it [the bale] begin to move. I looked back and one of my friends was pushing it.

“I tried to keep my balance, next minute I fell. This was my Indiana Jones moment when I was trying to get out of the way of the big, rolling boulder.

“Unfortunately, this wasn’t a movie and I wasn’t as lucky as Indy, so as I went to quickly get out of the way I lifted my head and the rolling bale caught the back of my head pushing it forward and I heard a crack.

“Everything in my body went dead in an instant.

Next, I heard a bit of commotion. I asked one of my friends to lift my arm and I saw this limp, lifeless hand appear in front of my face – a hand I should have recognised as my own but didn’t.

“When he let, go my arm dropped to the ground with a thud, and I knew something serious had happened.

“I was taken to the Mater Hospital and after what seemed like an endless amount of scans and x-rays, the doctor came in

to give me the news that I had broken my neck and I was paralysed.”

Stephen adapted to his new life as best he could and has been lobbying for accessible taxis since

2012 after being stranded until 6am on a night out with pals in Dublin city centre because no taxi could accommodate his wheelchair.

He told The Gazette:

“Just 6% of our taxi fleet is wheelchair-accessible compared to 80% in the UK. We are making good progress, but it is going to take time.

“Barriers in our physi-

Don’t be Freud-tened of this day  AISLING KENNEDY

FOLLOW US TODAY ON OUR SOCIAL NETWORK

Stephen Cluskey with former Irish soccer international Kevin Kilbane. Picture: Paul Sherwood

cal environment can be more disabling than the disability itself but small changes have the power to make a world of difference to people dealing with mobility, visual, hearing and cognitive challenges.

“Imagine trying to meet friends for dinner but there isn’t enough space between the tables for you to navigate your wheelchair around. Imagine trying to decide what you’ll order if you can’t see the menu.

“Things that many people take for granted as being simple can become major barriers for people with higher access needs, so small changes can make a huge difference.”

Stephen appeared on RTE’s Late Late Show earlier this month after setting Kathryn Thomas and Kevin Kilbane a unique challenge to navigate the city in a wheelchair – with interesting results.

He is now urging people to visit www.challengeaccess.ie for ideas and practical tips on how to improve accessibility for the 600,000 people – 13% of the population – living with a disability.

A PSYCHOLOGY Matters Day will take place on Saturday, May 13 in two venues in Dublin, with a range of free, informative public talks taking place at each event.

While many people still associate psychology with intensive work from the likes of Sigmund Freud (right), modern psychologists provide invaluable help to people of all ages and back-

grounds, with Psychology Matters Day providing a great insight into this fascinating field.

The Psychological Society of Ireland (PSI) will host the day around the country, with two venues in Dublin hosting the talks – at the Dublin Business School (DBS) on Aungier Street, and the Dun Laoghaire Institute of Art, Design and Technology (IADT). The talks at DBS will run from 2pm to 5pm, while the talks at IADT will run from 1.30pm to 4.30pm.

The aim of Psychology Matters Day is to promote psychology by making it accessible at a public level. The talks at DBS and IADT will focus on a wide range of topics such as parenting, romantic relationships, anxiety, and suicide prevention.

All members of the public are welcome to attend, and as this is a drop-in event, no booking is required. For further information, see www.psychologicalsociety.ie.

6 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 20 April 2017

Out and About Oscar McHenry (4) from Dublin holds on tight to his Easter egg, as Bossy – one of the the newly-born Spring lambs on his grandparents’ farm in Antrim – investigates.

Picture: Julien Behal

Glencullen Dundrum Musical & Baldoyle Musical Society delights families

Dramatic Society presents Barry

once again with their production of

Manilow’s Copacabana at the Mill

Seussical – The Musical

Theatre

Festive Easter fun

W

Teachers Music Society: The cast of Sweeny Todd fills the stage

E’RE not yolking – Dubliners all across the city (and even far beyond) had a cracking Easter this year, with lots of pretty eggs-cellent activities – not least the nationwide Cruinniú na Cásca which saw hundreds of free artistic and cultural events have taken place across the country.

While some Dubs braved beyond The Pale to share some fun times with their country cousins, closer to home people all around the city had a wealth of events to enjoy, with Easter musicals and shows helping to keep people of all ages entertained (and gave a bit of a break from munching away at delicious chocolate eggs).

The serious side of Easter was not forgotten, with Christian ceremonies providing some spiritual food for thought, while in addition, the annual commemorations at Glasnevin Cemetary on Easter Sunday provided a suitably sombre reflection on the weekend’s importance to Dubliners.

Lucan United gets their youngest members out in the sun for some holiday fun

Brigadier General Howard Birney, 2nd Brigade is pictured as he laid a wreath at the grave of Edward Hollywood – the man who delivered the first Tricolour flag to Ireland from France. Looking on are Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht, Heather

Shankill GAA Club Under-9 football team pictured in the hallowed ground of Croke

Swapping the city for the country ... Laura Mae and Katie

Humphreys and the chairman of Glasnevin Trust,

Park with coaches Mike Brophy and Eoin O Rourke after playing in the Go Games

O’Brien with Alice and the Easter Bunny. Pictures: Aishling

John Green. Picture: Iain White/Fennell Photography

series of matches

Conway

20 April 2017 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 7

8 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 20 April 2017

FASTNews

COMMUNITY | WOMEN WORK TOGETHER TO FINALLY QUIT SMOKING

Councillor wants Marriage Equality vote to be marked with Pride flag A CLONDALKIN councillor has called for the Pride flag to be hung outside Clondalkin civic offices to mark the second anniversary of the Marriage Equality vote on May 22.

Cllr Francis Timmons (Ind) also wants the flag displayed for the week of June 19 to 25 “to show solidarity with all LGBT [people] and especially all those struggling with their sexual identity”.

The motion was due to be debated at a council meeting last night (Wednesday).

These cigarette quitters are also great quilters, as they together celebrate giving up the dreadful habit

Quitters never win– but these ladies deserve to be praised A GROUP of women from Dolphin House, Rialto are now celebrating after completing a free programme called We Can Quit, which aims to help women quit smoking together.

In total, nine women from the area successfully completed the course and seven women have completely quit smoking.

Pictured at the graduation ceremony with a quilt handmade by the women during the course were Theresa McCarthy (facilitator), Ann Marie Leahy, Lisa Buckley (facilitator), Collette Wylie, Sandra Lee, Veronica Lally, Marie O’Neill and Martina Whelan.

T h e wo m e n c o m menced the free 12-week programme in January, and from there they attended weekly group sessions and one-to-one support meetings, as well as receiving 12 weeks

of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) to the value of €450, free of charge.

The programme was open to female smokers over the age of 18 years and living in the Dublin 8 and 12 areas.

Rachel Burke, community cancer prevention officer at the Irish Cancer Society, said: “We would like to congratulate all of the local women who have completed We Can Quit – it is a fantastic achievement which will have a positive impact on their lives, and those of their families.

Support “We Can Quit offers women support to take on and succeed on their quitting journey. Through the programme, women can access a friendly and supportive network of like-minded women who really understand what

Worth Poppin over to try fitness gear

GYM equipment has been installed in Poppintree Park, Ballymun for the first time, with local residents welcoming the move.

TDublin City Council installed the new fitness units after it applied for the Sports Capital Grant in 2015 and were granted funding to install them.

Cllr Noeleem Reilly (SF) said she is delighted that the new equipment has been installed in the park and said: “A lot of the equipment is wheelchair-friendly, so everyone can enjoy the facilities.

“It was great to see people out this morning already using the facilities and I hope the communities of Ballymun and Glasnevin make full use of this new equipment.”

they are going through.

“Together, the women in We Can Quit help each other to quit smoking for good.”

We Can Quit is an initiative of the Irish Cancer Society, in partnership with the HSE, F2 Centre and Enterprise Management Board, Fatima Groups United, Dublin South City Partnership, Dolphin CDA, Canal Communities Regional Addiction Service, Bluebell Pharmacy and Haven Pharmacy.

The next We Can Quit course in the area will begin on Tuesday, April 25 at 11am in the St Agnes Parish Centre, St Agnes Road, Crumlin, Dublin 12.

To find out more about We Can Quit, or to register your interest for the next course, see the Irish Cancer Society’s website at www.cancer.ie/wecan-quit.

20 April 2017 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 9

FASTNews

Godot and see this play over at The Abbey THE acclaimed Samuel Beckett play, Waiting For Godot will come to the Abbey Theatre from April 22 to May 20.

Tony award-winner Garry Hynes will direct members of the Druid Ensemble in the play, including Garrett Lombard, Aaron Monaghan, Rory Nolan and Marty Rea. Directors of the Abbey, Graham McLaren and Neil Murray, said: “We wanted to start our first season on the Abbey stage by inviting in Irish artists, companies and shows we have long admired.

“A number of these shows have never been seen in Dublin and none of them at the national theatre.”

Tickets are on sale now via the Abbey Box Office at 01 878 7222, or online at www. abbeytheatre.ie.

A special day to celebrate Africa THE countdown to Africa Day 2017 is on, with it once again taking place in the grounds of Farmleigh Estate in the Phoenix Park.

Supported by Irish Aid, the day takes place on Sunday, May 21 from 11am to 6pm and will see free public performances by well-known African and Irish musicians. There will also be children’s entertainment, traditional African drumming, dance workshops and cultural performances.

Africa Day is described as a great occasion for families and friends to celebrate African culture and the strong bonds that exist between Ireland and the continent of Africa.

For further information on the day, see www.africaday.ie.

HEALTH | DR CIARA KELLY ON THE PROBLEM THAT MOST OF US CONSTANTLY FACE

Taking the pain out of coping with headaches  EMMA NOLAN

Dr Ciara says lifestyle issues are the most common causes of average headaches. Picture: David Cantwell

Help Debra Ireland and win time with Leinster lads

LEINSTER players James Tracy, Garry Ringrose, Josh van der Flier, Dominic Ryan, Rhys Ruddock, Jordi Murphy, Billy Dardis and Ed Byrne joined Debra Ireland fundraiser Lyndsey Campbell at Leinster Rugby HQ to call on Dublin mini marathon participants to help support children with EB (epidermolysis bullosa), an incredibly painful skin disease.

Those who do will be in with a chance to fly on a private jet with the Leinster Rugby team for their first away game of the 2017/18 Guinness PRO12 season, courtesy of Joe Walsh Tours. To register and receive a Debra Ireland fundraising pack, call 01 412 6924, or register at www.debraireland.org.

Picture: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

WE ALL get headaches – and while most of us just consider them a part of everyday life, there could be some underlying reasons causing them.

The Gazette sat down with Dr Ciara Kelly to discuss headaches and how they can be prevented.

She said: “A lot of the population are having headaches weekly or monthly.

“If you look at the causes you’ll see it’s simple things like a lack of sleep, poor hydration and not eating regularly enough – those basic things that we all do when rushing around and not looking after ourselves properly.”

Dr Ciara says that headaches are a very common problem and for most people they’re nothing more than a nuisance because “hopefully, most people aren’t having a rehabilitating kind of a

headache”.

A poll conducted by Nurofen Express found that almost one fifth (19%) of those surveyed suffer from headaches on a weekly basis, and 37% suffer once a month.

In addition to this, of those suffering from headache on a regular basis, some 20% identified their headaches as being severe in terms of the pain level.

Dr Ciara maintains that lifestyle issues are the most common causes of average headaches and said that eyestrain and staring a screen too long can be causes.

However, before reaching for the painkillers, Dr Ciara suggests making sure that you are drinking enough water and getting enough sleep.

“But if you do have a headache the best thing to do would be to reach for medication, by which I mean paracetamol or ibuprofen.

“Ibuprofen is relatively safe, but for some people it can be hard on the tummy – that’s why people take it with food.

“I would suggest if you’re getting headaches weekly and if you’re taking ibuprofen on a weekly or daily basis, you really need to look at these headaches, and there are different types of headaches that need to be addressed, such as migraine.

“Other red flags to be aware of with headaches are very severe headaches associated with other neurological symptoms, like nausea, weakness or impaired speech and visual disturbances.

“If you’re having any weird headaches with any of these symptoms it’s more than just popping two paracetamol or ibuprofen – that’s when you see your doctor.”

Disclaimer: Dr Ciara Kelly does not endorse any medication brands.

TOP TIPS TO HELP PREVENT HEADACHES Hydration – Being dehydrated is one of the most common causes of headache. By drinking water throughout the day, you can avoid the risk.

Sleep – Headaches are often an indicator that our body is weak due to a lack of sleep. Taking a rest in a dark room can be a great way to fight a headache.

Nutrition – By eating small but frequent meals you can maintain a healthy blood sugar level and help prevent a headache.

Weight – Carrying extra weight can make you more likely to suffer from headaches and migraines. By losing even 10 pounds you are reducing the chance of getting a headache.

Caffeine – While a little hit of caffeine is known to have pain-killing properties, over-consumption of caffeine can be a major trigger of headaches and migraines for some people.

10 GAZETTE 20 April 2017

Out and About Pictures: Andres Poveda

 EMMA NOLAN SORROW, escape, starvation; Dublin’s hottest new attraction is a unique bus tour that takes passengers on a journey through Ireland’s darkest hour.

On board the Perseverance: Fleeing the Famine, passengers are invited to journey through Ireland in the famine years as actors weave together a moving and enlightening journey through Ireland’s darkest hour on board a custom designed bus.

The Perseverance bus has been entirely transformed into a famine ship, thrusting the audience on deck and back in time to encounter the stories of those that fled The Great Hunger.

The actual Perseverance was amongst the first of hundreds of ships to set sail from Ireland carrying the sick and starving people of the nation.

Using journals, letters, newspaper reports, government speeches, poems, songs and survivors’ stories, Hidden Dublin Tours have expertly crafted a truly unique experience.

Aboard passengers will discover the impact of British rule and the horrors of starvation and pestilence and uncover the voyages overseas, the thrilling rescues and tragic ends.

Listen to songs of sorrow and escape and witness the resilience of the Irish spirit.

The Perserverance; Fleeing the Famine is the fourth interactive bus tour from Hidden Dublin Tours.

The award-winning company bring to life the hidden histories of Ireland’s past through unique and exciting theatrical performances by professional actors on board custom designed tour buses.

The new tour is now available to the public and runs daily at 11.15am and 2,15pm from College Green, Dublin 2. For more information visit www.fleeingthefamine.ie.

Traveling through our darkest hour Actors Siofra O’Meara and Andy Gallagher

Creators Shane Whisker and Eilis O’Donnell

20 April 2017 GAZETTE 11

Live life

to the max

THE Dublin Gazette Newspaper has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs. Mick is a threeyear-old Spaniel who has recently had one of his back legs amputated. Poor Mick had an old fracture that hadn’t been treated and his leg had set incorrectly, causing him trouble to use his leg properly and bear weight on it.

He is doing really well post surgery, but we would absolutely love to get him his forever home to convalesce in. He will need an adult-only home, where he will be the only pet initially. Any potential adopter would need to live close enough to the centre and have their own transport, as Mick will need regular check ups until he is fully healed. Mick LOVES cuddles and fuss, so the person/family must be OK with providing lots and lots of these and generally spoiling this handsome tripaw to bits!

If you think you could help Mick recover from his surgery and enjoy life to the max on three legs, then please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www. dogstrust.ie. You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE.

LIKE MICK





! y eyes into m E a Look V ld LO I wou ever furrr !

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GAZETTE

12 GAZETTE 20 April 2017

DUBLINBUSINESS Chopped’s MD and co-founder, Brian Lee

Salad bar chain Chopped serves up 300 new jobs with ambitious expansion MORE than 300 new jobs are to be created thanks to the expansion of salad bar Chopped.

Brian Lee, co-founder and managing director of Chopped, announced the creation of 320 new jobs with 20 new stores are set to open across the country this year.

These stores will be joined by six new Chopped stores in the UK – the chain’s first outlets outside Ireland – with the creation of 110 jobs to service the new outlets and manage the international roll-out of the brand.

The new outlets will join existing Chopped locations in Dublin, Kildare and Galway. Chopped recently opened new sites in Talbot Street, UCD, and in Galway. Chopped outlets are also opening this year in counties Wicklow, Cork and Waterford, alongside continued expansion in Dublin.

Lee said: “Last year we set a target of increasing our staff numbers by 100 people and we exceeded that expectation by increasing our employees by 140 in 2016.

“Our staff are what makes Chopped the success it has become and we are looking forward to seeing our family grow as we expand across Ireland and beyond.”

Get to grips with tech

PICTURED taking part at the recent Bank of Ireland “Digital Arrows” session in Stillorgan library are David McCabe and Rachel Foster from Bank of Ireland, with Eileen Somerville. The event was one of many Bank of Ireland Digital Arrows events that ran during Get Online Week 2017.

Bank of Ireland has a dedicated team of Digital Arrows providing training around the country to help educate people around technology, introduce them to social media, assist in setting up an email account, and demonstrate how to bank online safely and securely.

The European-wide Get Online Week was an annual digital empowerment campaign to engage with and encourage people to use technology and the internet with confidence.

Joan Rock, Irish Life Assurance (Large Employer winners); Andrew Hayes, Helsinn birex Pharmaceuticals (Medium-Sized Employer winner) and Nicole Quinn, MCI (Small Employer winner) at the FDI National Workplace Wellbeing Day Awards 2017. Picture: Naoise Culhane

Approach to workers’ wellbeing wins awards

THREE Dublin companies have won awards for the National Workplace Wellbeing Day Awards this year.

Irish Life Assurance was named Ireland’s Best Large employer, while Helsinn Birex Pharmaceuticals took the honours in the Medium Size category.

The award for Best Small Company went to MCI (formerly Ovation Group), a Dublin destination management com-

pany.

Speaking at the award ceremony in Dublin, Dermot Doherty, manager, FDI Health Strategy said: “Today, more employees have access to health and wellbeing initiatives within the workplace than ever before.

“We hope that these award-winning companies will inspire an even greater number of employers to do more in this area by adopting a collabora-

tive approach to employee wellbeing.

“Our recent study showed that only a quarter of Ireland’s workforce takes the recommended level of exercise and that most employees believe that a healthier diet and more exercise in the workplace are likely to provide greater energy and wellbeing.

“This, in return, raises team moral, the overall culture of organisations

and leads to higher productivity.”

Alan Quinlan, principal, Mercer Health and Wellness (award sponsors) said: “Ultimately, it’s not about spending more – it’s about targeting spend to have a bigger impact across the general population.

“Organisations that get this right actually make savings on benefits and reduce the costs associated with managing work-

place health.”

The judges for the awards included John Treacy, chief executive, Irish Sports Council; Mar y Connaughton, director, CIPD Ireland; and Alan Quinlan, principal, Mercer Health and Wellness.

They commended the winners for their fresh and holistic approach to wellbeing and their seamless integration of it into the workplace.

Nestle Ireland appoints new country business manager NESTLE has appointed Andrew Shaw as the new country business manager for Ireland.

Andrew assumes responsibility for Nestle Ireland’s operations and its wide portfolio of products across the confectionery, beverage, food and pet care categories.

He will lead the company in Ireland as it continues to expand its presence and deliver growth across its categories.

Andrew has more than 20 years of international experience in the

FMCG sector. He has held a variety of supply chain management and leadership roles in Nestle UK & Ireland, and Nestle Switzerland.

His most recent role was as head of demand and supply planning for Nestle UK & Ireland.

Andrew has worked across many Nestle UK & Ireland categories, including pet care, confectionery, culinary, ice-cream and beverages.

He said: “I look forward to working closely with our dedicated team based in Citywest to drive further

growth across our multiple categories whilst bringing our iconic brands to new levels of customer and consumer engagement.

“It is a particularly exciting time to lead the business too, where we are announcing some significant market-leading research and development innovations to reduce sugar across our confectionery portfolio.”

Andrew is a graduate of Northumbria University where he obtained a Business Studies degree.

20 April 2017 GAZETTE 13

DUBLINLIFE Let Dublin Gazette Newspapers take you on a tour of the news and events taking place across the city and county this week

TRAVEL: MARVELOUS MADRID P24



GAZETTE

CINEMA: A MESMERISING MAIDEN P24

MOTORING: AMOUR FOR THE AMAROK P20

MUSIC: THE MECHANICS OF BUILDING A FESTIVAL

Helmet

Mike Skinner

BARE

In The Woods: “It’s a slow burner”

BARE in the Woods organiser, Peter Dunne offers a notably different line-up such as former The Streets frontman, Mike Skinner, rapper and spoken word artist, Akala, House of Pain and The Rubber Bandits

- James Hendicott talks to Peter Dunne about converting punters and agents to a startup festival.

See Pages 16-17

GAZETTE

14 GAZETTE 20 April 2017

DUBLINLIFE

DIARY

ARTS: LITERARY STARS AND CULTURE VULTURES GET SET TO FLOCK TO DUBLIN

Festival to celebrate the city's write good arts stars DUBLIN is getting ready to celebrate its historic and contemporary connection with literature by welcoming some of the biggest stars from the literary stage this May as part of the International Literature Festival Dublin (ILFDublin), which runs from May 20 to 29.

Celebrating words, language, literature and reading of all genres, ILFDublin will feature more than 60 events, with everything from readings, discussions and interviews to debates, workshops, masterclasses and performances to enjoy.

Renowned for bringing the big names to Dublin, this year’s festival features a stellar line-up of writers, including Susie Orbach, Patrick McCabe, Ruby Wax, Elizabeth Strout, Colm Toibin, Lisa McInerney, Richard Dawkins,

Sally Rooney, Will Self, Madeleine Thien, Dusan Sarotar, Raja Shehadeh, Bettany Hughes, Dorit Rabinyan and Richard Ford.

M e a nw h i l e , p o e t s Michael Longley, Leontia Flynn, Kerrie O’Brien, Paula Meehan and Peter Wawerzinek will be featured, along with journalists Patrick Cockburn and Mary Fitzgerald.

Filmmaker Xiaolu Guo, historian Avi Shlaim and economist and former Greek Minister for Finance Yanis Varoufakis will also be here.

Tickets will be available from ilfdublin.com.

CALL TO CREATE THE PERFECT GIFT CARD THE search for Dublin’s up-and-coming creatives is on as One4all has launched its annual Design A Gift Card com-

petition, with its fifth run once again giving artists across the country the opportunity to get national exposure for their designs.

The winning design will be turned into a gift card and sold in An Post outlets nationwide and online in 2018. Budding artists, illustrators and designers are invited to design a unique gift card and carrier inspired by the theme: Happiness.

The 2017 judging panel consists some of Ireland’s best-loved creatives, including internationally acclaimed fashion designer, artist and printmaker Helen Steele, and esteemed street artist and art teacher Joe Caslin, who has drawn attention for his thought-provoking murals around Irealand including Cladagh Embrace (the same-sex

Water story! Author Dave Rudden reaches a dramatic part of The Little Raindrop as Jasmine Tessier, Grace Kavanagh and James Keane look on at the Little Ship Street steps, with the group playing their part to help promote the upcoming International Literature Festival Dublin 2017. Picture: Sasko Lazarov/Photocall Ireland

marriage mural which appeared on a George’s Street gable in the heart of the city).

Rounding off the judging panel for this year’s competition are Jerry Kelly, chief executive of Tweak.com, and Aoife Davey, group marketing manager at One4all.

Not only will the winner see their gift card design sold through One4all’s retail network, but they will also receive a MacBook Pro – an essential tool for any budding creative.

The closing date for entries is May 11, with further information and specific guidelines at www.one4all.ie/design.

HELP CLEAN UP OUR WONDERFUL CANALS CANALS Action Day is back this April and volunteers are needed to help with the clean-up on Saturday, April 22, from 10.45am to 1pm all along the banks of the Royal and Grand Canals.

Dublin City Canals Group invite volunteers of all ages to help clean up these two iconic Dublin canals, with starting points at Leeson Street Bridge, Spencer Dock, North Strand, Ashtown, Castleknock, Cross Guns Bridge, Grand Canal Basin, Sally’s Bridge or Bulfin Estates Resident’s Hall.

All equipment is provided – just bring yourself

and your energy!

The day is supported

by Dublin City Council, The Inland Waterways Association of Ireland and Waterways Ireland, together with local community groups and small local businesses, and has been organised in tandem with An Taisce’s National Spring Clean.

For further information, see Dublin Canals Action Day's Facebook page.

'WAKE UP' AND HELP SUPPORT PIETA HOUSE THE PEOPLE of Dublin are being urged to “wake up” and support Pieta House for this year’s Darkness Into Light events.

Last week, Electric

Ireland launched The National Wake-Up Call – a rallying cry to the people of Ireland to wake up to the critical issue of suicide and self-harm in Ireland.

Almost 500 people died by suicide in Ireland last year, so the public are being urged to support Pieta House to raise vital funds for suicide prevention, suicide bereavement and self-harm.

Wake up and walk from Darkness Into Light this May 6 at 4.15am. Dublin events are taking place in Malahide Castle, Marlay Park, Phoenix Park, Ringsend Park, Skerries and Tymon Park.

You can register at www.darknessintolight.ie.

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DUBLINLIFE

FEATURE

Calling all Superheroes SPECIAL OLYMPICS IRELAND: VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR SPORTING BODY'S ANNUAL COLLECTION DAY  REBECCA WESTON

capital in 2018, meaning most of the organisation’s current activity is focused on Regional Advancement.

Motor Activities Training Programme Regionals took place at the Sport Ireland National Indoor Arena recently, with all areas of Dublin represented.

Among the athletes were Matthew McHugh from Ballymun, Matthew Kinsella (right) from Perrystown and Gerard Hegarty, who is based in Stewart’s Care in Palmerstown.

Easte r n

Regional Director Liz Callery explained the importance of sport in SPECIAL Olympics Ireland are callthe lives of people with intellectual ing on Dublin's big-hearted heroes disabilities in Dublin. to help transform lives through sport She said: “Special Olympics by volunteering for their annual ColIreland is first and foremost a lection Day on Friday May 5th. sports organisation for people This year’s theme is ‘Currently with an intellectual disability, Seeking Superheroes’ with the goal but it provides athletes with far of recruiting volunteers to help on more than the physical benefits the day and inspiring the wider comof sport. munity to give what they can.

"Every day we see athletes The Special Olympics Ireland demonstrate courage, experience Games return to t h e joy and share long lasting friendships.”

Athletes from as young as six can train in a chosen sport and ultimately improve their quality of life.

Athletes’ families build an invaluable network of friendship and support, but money raised through the annual Collection Day is critical to the future of the programme. This year’s goal is to raise €650,000 on May 5th.

“We need 1,000 people to help in Dublin alone,” said Callery.

“If that many volunteers can spare a couple of hours to rattle a bucket at one of the junctions we’ll be based at, we’ll be a long way to meeting our target. Collection Day is the only day in the year where a call is issued for every community to support Special Olympics Ireland at the same time. There will be lots of coffee mornings, bag packs and fun events to get involved in too.”

Clockwise from left: Volunteer Kim O'Lane with Mohamed Sahid from Stewart's Special Olympics Collection Care, volunteer Lauren Murphy Kelly and athlete Gerard Hegarty. Below: Day is once again proudly supAthlete Matthew McHugh (centre) with his SNA and volunteer Danny and ported by eir. Open eir Wholesale Special Olympics Eastern Regional Director Liz Callery. Pictures: Ross O'Donoghue Managing Director Carolan Lennon says every cent counts.

“Special Olympics really does transform lives through sport, but it’s not possible without Collection Day,” she said. “It starts with recruiting volunteers to lend a hand on May 5th and eir employees will be among the thousands who will play their part in towns, cities and villages across Ireland.”

People looking to volunteer can register their interest at www. specialolympics.ie/collectionday Anyone who is unable to volunteer is asked to give what they can on the day or make a donation online.

Special Olympics Eastern Regional Director Liz Callery with athlete Matthew Kinsella and volunteer Karen Conlon from Cheeverstown House

WIN

A THREE-NIGHT STAY FOR TWO AT THE 4 STAR FITZWILTON HOTEL IN HISTORIC WATERFORD CITY

THIS fantastic prize includes:  Three nights B&B and one evening meal in the plush Met Bar Café for two people.  Bike Hire for one day on the new Waterford Greenway.

T&Cs Apply. Prize is subject to availability. Excludes Bank Holidays and Saturday nights in July & August.

Fitzwilton Hotel is the finest boutique 4 star Failte Ireland-approved hotel in Waterford city.

All 90 rooms have recently been refurbished.

The city centre is a mere 5 minute stroll and the hotel is located just two minutes from the bus & train station.

The renowned Met Bar Café and Chez K’s Bistro offer scrumptious menus catering for all taste buds.

For the adventurous out there, the stunning Waterford Greenway starts beside our hotel and is ideal for walk, running and cycling.

WEB: FitzwiltonHotel.ie PHONE: 051-846900

DUBLINLIFE

N O S ’ T A H W

E D I U G S T N E V E with JAMES HENDICOTT

Just Words

Rathmines arts venue MART introduce the fourth edition of their poetry night, a free event in the gallery featuring Raven, Adriana Ribeiro, Roisin Jenkinson and Kevin Dwan. April 26.

Record Store Day

A music lover’s and vinyl collector’s Christmas, Record Store Day takes over Dublin’s independent music retailers with dozens of live shows and unique musical releases. April 22.

Hanging On A Thread

Immersive debut exhibition from Aoife Banks takes a critical look at ‘fast fashion’ using sculptured textiles and audiovisual presentation. Launching at the In-Spire Galerie in Gardiner St on April 20, running until the 23rd.

Therapy?

Noisy Northern Irish metallers Therapy? tone things down for their latest tour, with a series of rare acoustic gigs. Drawing on a quarter of a century’s material, the quieter outings will be a chance to check out the strength of their songwriting. April 25, Whelan’s.

Dublin Canal’s Action Day

The canal clean up and biodiversity crew hold a special edition of their monthly meeting around Dolphin’s Barn, with a memorial action day for recently passed former member Don. April 22.

Private Lives

Noel Coward’s bittersweet love story continues its popular run at the Gate Theatre this week, with the curtain having risen in late March. Tickets are flying out, with the marriagebased plot on stage almost every evening until June 24.

Sumo Run Ireland

Marlay Park’s Sumo Run is a knowingly ridiculous event that will see thousands of fat-suit-wearing fools charge spend their Sunday afternoon bouncing across 5km of the park in aid of Purple House Cancer Support. April 23.

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

Mark Haddon’s fantastic novel - a strange investigative plot narrated by a gifted and probably autistic child - briefly comes to an Irish stage. April 25 to 29, Grand Canal Theatre.

New album of the week: Maximo Park - Risk To Exist.

Northern English rockers who rose with the Arctic Monkeys return with their sixth album, a blunt assault on the state of the world todayasdfasdfasddf

Maximo Park - Risk to Exist

20 April 2017 GAZETTE 17

BARE  JAMES HENDICOTT

MUSIC festivals, it’s fair to say, are on something of a relentless rise. Combining a weekend of hedonism with the opportunity to see musicians that would cost far more to see individually, the events present a risky but potentially rewarding opportunity for businessmen.

With the country’s biggest festival Electric Picnic selling out before even announcing a lineup this year, newcomers have been consistently sticking their head above the parapet – alongside BARE, festivals like Live On Air and BD Festival are nudging into the scene. BARE in the Woods, a growing event in Garryhinch Woods, Portarlington, is perhaps the most successful newcomer.

“We launched in 2014 with a single day ‘taster’”, organiser Peter Dunne told us. “It was really just getting people to buy into the concept, but it was also great experience for us. It’s been a slow burner, but I worked a lot on the other side of things, as a band manager, and so I understand what it’s like. It’s a slow process building trust with the acts [it’s worth noting that a couple of new Irish festivals have shut down in recent years, often without paying the performers], we just make sure we send them home happy. Now we have a lot of acts emailing us asking if they can come back again.”

“For me, it’s like seeing the festival experience from the other side of the fence. There’s a lot of correspondence, and you really have to pull together,” he says of the process. “I’ve learnt a few tricks, and we’ve brought a lot of experienced heads into our top team. We’ve been using a system called Mobstar [a musical talent platform], which has made it far easier to pick acts we’re interested in for the festival.”

BARE In The Woods’ line up is notably different to much of what’s going on in Ireland over the summer: some of the acts come straight out of leftfield (like sharp, political deep-thinking rapper and spoken word artist Akala, or former frontman with The Streets Mike Skinner), while others - like Canadian pop starlet Kiesza - are playing playing rare Irish dates.

MUSIC

IN THE WOODS:

Festival

Building a

From Scratch

Dunne thinks it’s important to keep the festival diverse, and books accordingly. “We tried to go for non-everyday acts,” he explains. “We’re up against a lot of big players when it comes to booking, and we’re doing the same with the site. We’re going to have access to the woods, which means the festival will spill into them, and punters can explore the woods as well as the music. Then we’ll be adding in other elements, the things that keep people coming back.”

“This year, that means bringing in things like a tech element. We’ll have a gaming area, for example. It’ll be family friendly. There’s also going to be American wrestlers, lots of different art forms, an artisan food village, and lots of comedy. We’ve made a real effort with the spoken word stuff, too.”

The progression over recent years - from one day festival featuring almost exclusively local Irish acts to three day bonanza layered with international diversity - is a promising sign.

And once it’s all done? There’s only one way Peter can unwind. “I think I’ll have Post Traumatic Stress Disorder for about a month, so I’ll be taking some time off” he tells us, “but then I’ll be heading off to a few festivals around Europe as a punter, and to see what they’re up to.” Of course he will.

BARE In The Woods takes place in Portarlington, county Laois on June 9, 10 and 11. The line up features Kiesza, House Of Pain, Right Said Fred, Mike Skinner, Helmet, Rubberbandits and Ham Sandwich.

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House of Pain

Akala

BARE in the Woods organiser, Peter Dunne

The Rubber Bandits

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DUBLINLIFE

STYLE  EMMA NOLAN Style Editor

I’M A big believer in the summer mantra: “You can never have enough pairs of sunglasses”.

From getting sat on to left behind or even being misplaced, High Street sunglasses are a godsend for the person on a budget.

While it would be nice to splash out on an expensive designer pair, chances are that many of us don’t quite have €200plus for sunnies.

We need to know more about the workers who

Style Editor

DO YOU know where your clothes come from?

Well, it’s time to start asking questions.

Fashion Revolution Week is coming to Dublin and organisers are urging fashion lovers to understand the true cost of the industry.

Now a global movement, a week-long series of events runs from April 24 to 30, including film screenings, pop-up shops, vintage clothing walking tours, street art exhibitions, clothing swaps, podcasts and more, all to inspire action to solve the problems the fashion industry is causing.

The week’s arrival in Ireland coincides with the anniversary of the Rana Plaza garment factory collapse in Bangladesh, which killed 1,138 people and injured 2,000 others in April, 2013.

In Bangladesh, garment workers earn just €49.56 per month, which is less than is calculated

as the basic living wage there. With almost 80% of the workforce in this industry being young women and living in poverty, it’s time for change.

To raise awareness and start a conversation, organisers around the country are calling on fashion lovers to join fellow organisations across the world in asking leading fashion brands #whomademyclothes across social media.

Events in Dublin include the #whomademyclothes designer show and tell at the Fumbally Exchange on April 24, and a Haulternative Walking Tour with Amelia Eclectique of La Femme Eclectique and Om Diva.

A mending workshop with Liadain Aiken Knitwear is also set to take place, along with a screening of TanaBana at the Fumbally Exchange.

For further information and events details, see Fashion Revolution Week’s Facebook page.

k

spectacle-ular €9

 EMMA NOLAN

L Look

Time to ask – and care – about who made your clothes, says new campaign

New

literally make such great clothes. Picture: Alex Sheridan

Besides, with such a great, affordable selection of glasses available, who cares?

You’ll probably just end up sitting on them anyway…

Here’re a few affordable and super-stylish options available in Dublin right now.

You can even treat yourself to two or three pairs if you feel like it (thanks, Penneys)!

And always remember to bring backup pairs on holidays or to festivals where your sunnies will inevitably end up lost or broken.

Ultimately, if you go ahead and wear any of these beauties below, I promise you’ll...

Topshop €25

Next €12

River Island €17

Next €12

3 eys € Penn

Penneys €3

ce Ac

ss

ze ori

€16

ize

Acc

or ess

€16

M50MOTORING The Dublin Gazette drives you through the motoring world on a tour of the latest models, technology & industry news

Windsor Motor Group expands to Long Mile Road IRELAND’S largest retail motor group, the Windsor Motor Group, is expanding and creating 20 new jobs with the opening of its fifteenth dealership nationwide. The new jobs in sales, service and repair were announced with the opening of the new Windsor Long Mile Nissan dealership in Dublin.

Windsor Motor Group, which has an annual turnover of €200 million, now employs over 300 people at its dealerships in Dublin, Wicklow, Meath and Galway. The motor group represents Nissan, Opel, Peugeot and Mazda and sells over 9,000 new and used vehicles in addition to servicing and repairing 25,000 vehicles a year, making it the market leading brand.

The company has also announced the appointment of Peter Nicholson as its new managing director.

Peter Nicholson joined Windsor Motor Group in 1992 and has previously held roles as group finance and

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20 April 2017 GAZETTE 19

Renault-Nissan welcomes EV competition RENAULT-NISSAN, the pioneer of electric cars, claims that mainstream acceptance of electric vehicles (EV’s) is reaching a tipping point as electric car get more range from a full charge. Renault-Nissan has welcomed increasing competition from rivals such as Volkswagen and Opel enter into the market.

Renault’s original target of selling 1.5 million zero-emissions vehicles by 2016 will

not be met, and the company claims that it will take an additional four or five years for sales to get to that level. Last year, the group reported global EV sales of 94,265.

Opel will soon be launching the AmperaE hatchback with claims of a 500km range, beating the 400km top range of Renault’s and Europe’s top-selling EV, the Zoe. The Volkswagen Group plans to bring purposebuilt EVs to market, including the new

Golf-e. In a few years, Volkswagen, Skoda and Seat will be introducing volume EVs underpinned by the company’s dedicated MEB modular architecture for electric vehicles.

The Renault-Nissan Alliance sees the light-commercial vehicle market was a natural fit for EVs. Renault will launch a Kangoo Z.E van, followed by the Master Z.E. heavy van toward the end of the year.

Trio winners of Irish Van of the Year 2017

insurance director and dealer principal at Windsor Airside Nissan.

“The new Windsor Long Mile Nissan dealership is a key part of our strategic plan to expand nationwide and to lead the way in delivering a modern motor sales and aftersales customer focused experience,” said Peter Nicholson, managing director of Windsor Motor Group.

“Our state-of-the-art showrooms put technology at the heart of the retail experience, presenting a modern, spacious, open and friendly environment where customers are better informed and empowered to make the right vehicle choice,” he added.

Newly-appointed managing director of Windsor Motor Group, Peter Nicholson (right) pictured with company brand ambassador and Leinster and Irish rugby player Jack McGrath

THE new-generation Citroen Dispatch, Peugeot Expert and Toyota Proace have been crowned Irish Van of the Year 2017. The award was voted upon by a jury of Ireland’s most experienced van journalists, in association with Continental Tyres.

This range of vans build by the PSA Citroen Peugeot Group in France is a complete re-design from the previous models, with new comfort levels, more flexible options than ever before. All feature more fuel efficient diesel engines matched to new gearboxes.

Launched last year, these new vans are among the first vehicles of its type to offer hands-free sliding side doors and a head-up display, as well as numerous other technologies that make working lives easier and safer. The new vans exude a robust and attractive character. Carrying loads from 1000kg up to 1400kg, it is pre-

The Citroën Dispatch / Peugeot Expert / Toyota Proace Van, a joint collaboration of the three companies has been voted Irish Van of the Year 2017 in association with Continental Tyres. Pictured at the presentation of the award were (l to r): Ian Corbett, Toyota Ireland, Chris Graham, Citroen Ireland, Des Cannon, Peugeot Ireland and Tom Dennigan of awards sponsor Continental Tyres.

sented with a reduced height of 1.90m, in three lengths and in a range of trim levels. Built on the PSA Group’s new modular EMP2 platform, it is powered by the highly efficient 1.6 95bhp / 115bhp and 2.0 BlueHDi 120bhp Euro6 diesel engines. Available in panel van and special order crew cab or platform cab variants, it has the highest safety level in its category, achieving a five-star rating in Euro NCAP tests.

Want to reach an audience in excess of 300,000 people in Dublin each week?

To advertise in our new Motoring section, contact sales@dublingazette.com or call

01 601 0240

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20 GAZETTE 20 April 2017

M50MOTORING

Amour for Amarok THE MARKET for 4x4 pick-ups has become a fashionable one, as the wide range of accessories for these otherwise functional machines, adds a deal of spice to their appearance. For those who make the 4x4 pickup choice for reasons of business or image, the engine performance is one of the key features.

What’s the point of looking muscular if there’s little pace and stamina to back it up?

Volkswagen has set the bar higher in power terms in the 4x4 pick-up market with the launch last year of the Amarok V6 version. In one fell swoop Volkswagen has leap frogged the competition by using an engine version that had been proven in the large Touareg SUV. Pick-up drivers were a little apprehensive about the power claims of the previous Amarok. Getting 180bhp from a 2.0litre turbo-diesel engine seemed to be at the heart of their concerns. That’s no longer an issue with the big 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel version that pumps out 204bhp and is now the sole six-cylinder engine option in the 4x4 pick-up market.

The extra power is smooth in terms of delivery and adds more muscle where it’s needed. This new Amarok has faster acceleration, more towing power and a higher payload capacity than the previous model. That means that this new V6 Amarok is now ready to challenge the market leaders, Ford’s Ranger and Toyota Hilux.

Out on the road the V6 engine power and 550Nm of torque is palpable as its flows through the eight speed automatic gearbox.

Manual gearboxes will be the exception in the new Amarok as Volkswagen

FASTNews New breakdown service ‘easyAssist’ is launched THE company behind, easytrip, Ireland’s only electronic parking and tolling tag provider, has launched a new breakdown assistance service in Ireland called easyAssist.

The new breakdown recovery and assistance service is available from €3.99 per month.

Recent easytrip research revealed that three out of five motorists don’t have breakdown cover for their vehicle and often rely on their vehicle insurance policy to cover

The new and more powerful Volkswagen Amarok 4x4 pickup has bigger engine and some fresh external and internal styling. This is a big machine with a powerful performance and an entry price for the 204bhp version of €47,670 incl. VAT.

it. They claim that as motor insurance premiums have increased by over 70% since 2013,

Volkswagen Amarok 3.0 SPECIFICATIONS

Engine Engine power 0 – 100km/hr Economy Fuel Tank Capacity CO2 emissions Road Tax Band Main Service Euro NCAP Rating Towing rating Warranty Entry Price NI Price

will claim that this more powerful engine will deliver at its best through the automatic gearbox.

The Amarok comes with a fuel economy rating of 14.3km/litre

3.0 litre 204hp 11.7 seconds 14.3km/litre (7.8l/100km or 36mpg) 80 litres 203g/km Commercial €333 20,000km/12 months 4 stars 2010 3500kgs 3 years (200,000km) €47,670 £32,493

(7.8l/100km or 36mpg), which is marginally better than the previous smaller engine version. My test result was about 10% lower and that alone was an impressive real world

Modern day 4x4 pick-ups have become fashionable due to the range of smart styling accessories, but as Michael Moroney found out, it’s really raw power that drivers are looking for when it comes to their choice of real on and off-the-road 4x4 status. driving margin difference.

In the 4x4 pick-up market I pitched the fuel economy performance of the new V6 Amarok against equivalent 4x4 pick-up vehicles at the top end of the power game.

While the Amarok is an improvement it’s still significantly less powerful than the Nissan Navara.

The smooth flow of engine power is noticeable and the strength behind the acceleration is clear. Volkswagen did not provide a towbar on the Amarok, so that towing test with a claim of 3.5 tonnes with a braked trailer, was not put to the test.

That towing rating puts the new Amarok at the top of the class along with the new Nissan Navara.

I was very impressed with the Amarok V6 in terms of power; it was comfortable on the highways where its rear leaf springs were not too noticeable. On smaller rural roads the ride was less comfortable and the bump more noticeable and here is the place to ease off on the pedal power.

The Amarok is wider than the competition and it feels so on those smaller rural roads. It is shorter however and its load area is not the longest, if load carrying ability is high on your agenda. The ground clearance is also lower than the competition while if you are brave enough to face a water crossing, there is a 500mm

wading depth ability.

The Amarok comes with some options around the 4x4 system. You can choose from a selectable (with manual gearbox) and permanent (with auto) 4MOTION fourwheel drive. An optional mechanical rear-axle differential lock is also available for demanding offroad use.

Entry prices for this engine grade start at €47,670, which means that the Amarok is one of the more expensive 4x4 pickups on the market. Can that premium be justified?

The sales figures don’t seem to indicate so, as Amarok shares joint fifth place in the market for the first three months of 2017 with the Isuzu D-Max.

many insurers have also reduced benefits on motor policies, with some not covering breakdown assistance at all.

The company has joined with nationwide breakdown assistance and recovery specialists, easyAssist to offer motorists with cars and small vans, assistance from trained professionals who claim to resolve 80% of breakdowns on the spot.

The easyAssist service from easytrip provides customers with assistance on all major breakdown scenarios nationwide including: battery charge; punctures; refuelling; wheel change; home start assist; and continuation of journey.

Colin Delaney, CEO of easytrip Ireland

20 April 2017 GAZETTE 21

GAZETTE

22 GAZETTE 20 April 2017

M50MOTORING

Pricing for new A5 cabriolet announced AHEAD of its launch later this month, Audi Ireland has announced pricing and specification details of the new Audi A5 Cabriolet, which completes the new generation of the A5 family.

The new model claims to be sportier, with an elegant design with a larger interior and more comfort and convenience, including a fully automatic acoustic hood as standard. The car comes with the latest Audi technology, including seat belt microphones, up to thirty different driver assistance systems and Audi virtual cockpit.

With room for four people and a fully automatic soft-top, the redesigned model is kitted out with the latest technology. The entry prices start at €60,730, before delivery charges.

The body of the new Audi A5 Cabriolet is claimed to be the strongest in its class and yet is among the lightest in the segment. Thanks to a smart mix of materials and lightweight design, compared to its predecessor model,

engineers have increased the car’s torsional rigidity by another 40% and reduced its weight by up to 40 kilograms.

Safety

The new one-touch opening function makes operating the standard acoustic hood much easier: the top fully opens in 15 seconds and closes in 18 seconds, even while driving up to 50 km/h. The Cabriolet’s additional body struts and reinforced sills make up for the absence of a fixed roof. In the event of a crash and/or rollover, head and torso airbags and automatically extending aluminium profiles ensure the occupants’ safety.

The new Audi A5 Cabriolet will be offered with a choice of three engines, a petrol 2.0 TFSI with 252bhp, and two diesels, a 2.0 TDI with 190bhp and a 3.0 TDI with 218bhp, each of which offers up to 17% more power while consuming as much as 22% less The Audi A5 Cabriolet is characterised by sleek lines and a flatter, sportier look, including a wider three-dimensional Single frame grille and wave-shaped shoulder line fuel compared with its predecessor.

High-powered Skoda Octavia RS to hit Dublin market in May SKODA has revealed details of the new high powered Octavia RS version, including the new pricing of €34,450 when the car hits the Dublin market in May of this year.

Skoda claims that the new Octavia RS maintains a balance of space and functionality coupled with power and performance.

The will be available as either a hatchback or estate combi version.

The Octavia RS in particular enjoys something of a cult following in Ireland, accounting for almost 10% of Octavia sales. This new third generation Octavia RS comes with a new front grille. New LED headlights replace the Xenon lights and LED technology also powers the rear tail lights.

Compared to the standard Octavia, the RS squats 15mm lower and can be fitted with wheels of up to 19 inches in diameter.

The rear wheels track has been increased by 30mm,

compared to the previous version, for improved road holding and cornering ability. The interior has also been refreshed with new seating and instrument cluster.

The Octavia RS will be powered by the familiar 2.0 TDI, 184bhp diesel engine that consumes just 4.5 litres of fuel per 100km on the combined cycle. This version can be mated to a 6-speed manual or DSG transmission, while a DSG

4x4 version is also available.

The new Octavia RS enjoys upgraded infotainment systems. The Columbus is the best system available in the Skoda range and boasts a 9.2 inch colour touch screen.

Compared to the previous Octavia the biggest advancements are in the area of connectivity. The Octavia RS model comes as standard with Infotainment online allowing

the driver to access news, weather and parking data.

Care connect is available as an option for the first time in the Octavia and provides emergency call function and remote access to your vehicle via the drivers smart phone.

Through the drivers smartphone they can view their vehicle on a map and also activate the vehicles honk and flash function in order to locate the car in a busy car park for example.

Compared to the previous Skoda Octavia RS models, the biggest advancements in the new 2017 model are in the area of connectivity

20 April 2017 GAZETTE 23

CINEMA

GAZETTE

DUBLINLIFE ReelReviews

GHOST IN THE SHELL

Not quite a cracking tale SCARLETT Johansson is watchable in just about anything, but even she can’t turn Ghost in The Shell (Cert 15A, 107 mins) anything much more than a visually spectacular but intellectually stupefying mess. Basically playing Roboscarlett (or The Terminatsson), she’s essentially a cyborg cop on the trail of some bad guys in a dazzling future world that’s wired for mayhem.

Like many South Korean films enjoying well-deserved greater international recognition lately, The Handmaiden is a feast for the eyes and the intellect alike

THE HANDMAIDEN: A CULTURAL THRILLER WITH A VERY HUMAN HEART ENCHANTS

BEAUTY & BEAST

A furly pointless remake WHILE looking a little dated around the edges, the original Disney animation is still more charming than Beauty and The Beast (Cert PG, 129 mins). The live-action remake of the classic is okay, but comes off as a little more onedimensional in parts than the source cartoon. With a live-action Mulan remake also on the way, the reboot conveyor belt is in full flow over at the Mouse House.

FAST & FURIOUS 8

Theron the edge of speed SPEAKING (top) of actors who’re very watchable in anything, Mad Max’s flatout star Charlize Theron has another run in with petrolheads, this time in Fast & Furious 8: The Fate of the Furious (Cert 12A, 136 mins). Boy racers and speed junkies will love this latest – and reliably barmy – addition to the evergreen franchise, but other cinemagoers will want to slam into reverse.

A mesmerising Maiden AFTER a brief flirtation with Hollywood (2013’s Stoker), Park Chan-Wook returns to Korea for The Handmaiden (Cert 18, 144 mins), a multi-layered thriller that mesmerises and devastates in equal measures.

While this may be the established director’s first real foray into romance, The Handmaiden comes equipped with all the masterful framing, bleakerthan-bleak humour and brutal violence for which Chan-wook has become beloved and revered.

The Handmaiden is inspired by Welsh author Sarah Water’s novel, Fingersmith, but loosely transplanting its narrative from a Victorian setting to pre-war, Japanese-occupied Korea.

K i m Ta e - r i p l a y s Sook-hee, a young thief employed by a Korean con-man impersonating a

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

Japanese Count, Fujiwara (Ha Jung-woo).

The “Count” plans to seduce and marry a wealthy Japanese woman, Lady Izumi Hideko (Kim Min-hee) and steal her inheritance.

Fujiwara sends Sookhee to live with Hideko, posing as her handmaiden, in the hopes that she will influence the Lady’s opinion of the Count and ease along the marriage.

However, Hideko’s perverted uncle (Cho Jin-woong) – her guardian since the death of her mother, and the more dubious death of her aunt – also has his sights on her

inheritance.

Beneath all this scheming, Sook-hee and Hideko form an intense bond; a deeply intimate relationship entirely foreign to Hideko’s conservative, sheltered upbringing and Sook-hee’s orphaned childhood on the streets.

Chan-wook’s screenplay, however, is woven with myriad levels of narrative intrigue; nothing is as it seems at first encounter.

The Handmaiden’s story is told in three parts, from altered perspectives.

Often, the same incident is repeated from another angle, revealing intricate details that, however small, are integral to the narrative development of this wonderfully compelling thriller.

C h a n - wo o k ’s l e n s is dynamic and lyrical throughout, vacillating between creeping shots

and sweeping movements; expertly composed symmetries and intimately framed closeups.

While it evokes much of Chan-wook’s previous work, The Handmaiden is a distinctly uniquelooking film.

The filmmaker relentlessly seeks out and frames each and every human movement, capturing every gesture with a masterful eye. Much of The Handmaiden is composed of close-ups on hands, fingers and eyes; glances, caresses and intimate touches.

From mild, trivial gestures to the most intense romantic encounter, each human interaction is made significant and sublime by Chan-wook’s intimate framing.

As such, for all its mystery and intrigue, The Handmaiden is a film

about human intimacy captured in a lengthy series of intimate human interactions. With his unique style, Chan-wook renders the fantastical notion of “love at first sight” entirely believable.

It also helps that all this sumptuous photography is focused on beautiful costume and set-design unlike much of anything we get to see on our screens.

The Handmaiden is posed between wars, between countries and cultures. Accordingly, everything on display mixes the aesthetics of East and West: the lush greens of the Korean countryside, the deeps browns of the mansion’s Anglo-centric architecture, and the calming whites of its Japaneseinspired paper-walls.

The result is often otherworldly, and always a

delight to gaze upon.

Each layer of romance and tragedy in The Handmaiden is inflected with Chan-wook’s wry sense of humour and morbid wit – this is often a deeply funny movie.

Even still, there’s a distinct sense of menace throughout, lurking beneath each and every narrative twist. Chanwook’s storytelling is efficient, economic even, and details are only revealed ever so delicately.

Aided by a cast of actors profoundly capable of communicating genuine emotion, Chanwook offers up a deeply human cinematic experience. The Handmaiden is a film that encapsulates everything so incredibly unique about its creator, cementing Chan-wook’s place as a master of modern filmmaking.

Verdict: 10/10

24 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 20 April 2017

DUBLINLIFE Marvel at the sights, sounds and tastes of a Spanish city

MADRID: VISIT REGAL PALACES, TEMPTING FOOD MARKETS, TOP-NOTCH

Get sun (or shade) at the Parque de la Arganzuela  JESSICA MAILE

ONE of the best places to enjoy the sun in Madrid is the Parque de la Arganzuela. It is an oasis just 1.5 kilometres from the Puerta del Sol in the centre of Madrid.

 EMMA NOLAN

The park offers, water fountains to relax by, plenty of trees to provide shade should it get too hot, playgrounds and three main water features for the little folk (and you) to splash and play in.

Along one tree-lined path there are tables with checker boards painted on them if you fancy a game while having a little picnic. There are also rowing lanes on the river, bicycle paths, cafes and restaurants and an urban beach is close by, near the old slaughterhouse (Madrid Matadero). So there is definitely something for everyone to enjoy.

The park also features the Arganzuela Footbridge which was designed to link the neighborhoods on the right and left banks of the Manzanares River. It is for both pedestrians and cyclists and provides direct access to the park below.

PICTURE this – Madrid, late November, Sunday night. A cocktail bar with mirrored shelves bursting with bottles of every kind of gin imaginable.

Marble and mahogany, a large decorative mantle piece; the place is Bar Cock just off Madrid’s Gran Via. The pouring rain is keeping most of the Madridlenos inside.

But a bit of rain isn’t enough to keep this Dubliner inside on her first ever night in the Spanish capital.

Having spent the evening sampling tapas from a number of places in the

Chueca district, guided by a proud local, I’m not ready to go to bed yet.

“Jamon Iberico is the most superior of all meats,” our guide tells us as the first of many plates of the famed cured ham is presented to us earlier in the evening.

A staple for most Castilians, Iberian ham is defined by its rich, earthy taste and must come from black Iberian pigs. The finest jamon comes from free range Iberian pigs who feed on acorns, we’re told.

Next stop is Taberna Angel Sierra (pictured below) for a vermouth and a plate of fresh anchovies and olives. It doesn’t get any more Spanish than

this.

The Chueca district is known as Madrid’s “gayest barrio” and it is lively with a sense of fun about the place.

Many of the bars here stay open late along with a selection of great nightclubs.

The centre of this barrio is Plaza de Chueca, a popular meeting spot for locals. Another popular place here is the Mercardo de San Anton – a space with an art gallery and a bar with a terrace, but it also still has meat and fish stalls that are very typical of Madrid’s many mercardos.

Eat like a local

Many of Madrid’s mar-

 TOPTIP

If you’re taking a day trip outside Madrid, stop by La Rozas Village, the Spanish equivalent to Kildare Village, for some shopping. Brands like Bimba Y Lola, Desigual and Sandro all offer discounted prices on last season’s stock.

Taberna Angel Sierra in the Chueca The Royal Palace of Aranjuez

District

kets include bars and food stalls serving everything from tapas, to Mexican and Asian cuisines, with enthusiastic vendors offering samples and tastes.

Fresh produce can be purchased too and there is always an impressive display of fresh seafood, which earns Madrid the title of the Spanish city that consumes the most fish, despite not being on the coast.

There’s also the historic Mercado de San Miguel, just off the Plaza Mayor which is a little more upmarket. More traditional ones include Mercado de Anton Martin in the Huertas district and Mercado de la Paz in the posh Salamanca neighbourhood.

All worth a visit to soak up the busy atmosphere and eat like a local.

A special mention has to go Platea. We had the most exquisite lunch here. A former cinema in the Plaza Colon, Platea was transformed into a huge market complete with restaurants and bars and reopened in 2014.

The space is spectacular – it retains the shape of the old theatre along with the stage (pictured) which regularly features live

music, performances and cooking demonstrations.

Arriba restaurant is located on the balcony with the best views of the stage and the food is by Michelin star chef Ramón Freixa. Freixa himself describes his Platea restaurant as a “concept where tradition and vanguard are combined”.

We enjoyed traditional cod fritters and croquettes served with a deconstruct-

20 April 2017 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

TRAVEL ART MUSEUMS, STUNNING ARCHITECTURE AND AMAZING RESTAURANTS, TO START.....

Platea – the former cinema transformed into a spectacular food market and (inset) dinner at Atico

‘One of the best things about a trip to Madrid is how accessible it is for visiting surrounding areas – Toledo, El Escorial, Avila, Cuenca and Segovia are all just a short distance away’

The iconic Metropolis as seen from the Calle de Alcala

ed patatas bravas to start.

For mains we had Tataki butterfish and a simple but delicious chicken and mustard dish. Platea is a must visit on any trip to Madrid.

Explore

We stayed in the Hotel Catalonia on Gran Via. Superbly located and reasonably priced, (€135 for a one night stay for two in May) this hotel is

a great base for exploring the city, with many great sights, bars, restaurants and shops within walking distance. (And it has a rooftop pool!)

Just down the road from the famous Metropolis building, on Calle de Alcala, you’ll find yourself constantly looking up at the impressive art deco architecture.

“Barcelona can have their Gaudi,” our guide

tells us. “In Madrid, we have Barroco Madrileno.”

It’s true that the city is incredibly stylish and monumental with broad boulevards lined by ornate structures and gardens.

One such example is the stunning El Buen Retiro Park – an expansive 19th century park in the centre of the city with a huge lake, impeccable lawns, and cryprus tree-lined walkways. Not to mention

the marble fountains and statues.

Even though we visited in November it was still beautiful; but it doesn’t compare to summer time when it is a hive of activity.

Within the park is another great restaurant, Florida Retiro. Located inside the park, it is a bright an airy space that felt summery even on a dull November day. We were told that there is an abundance of outdoor seating during warmer months.

Serving elegant Mediterranean cuisine and an interesting selection of tapas, Florida Retiro is a great place to enjoy a glass of wine and take in the atmosphere of the glorious park that was once reserved for royalty.

Speaking of beautiful things, Madrid is famous for having some of the best

museums in Europe. The Prado, the Reina Sofía, the Thyssen – the place is an art lover’s paradise.

The Museo ThyssenBornemisza has one of the largest private art collections in the world, with a vast array of different styles and eras.

Works of many big names artists are on display in the Thyssen from Caravaggio to Van Gogh.

There’s a single Rembrandt and Monet and Renoir are also on display. Picasso and Salvador Dali are also featured with some other notable pieces from Hopper and Munch.

A must visit for any trip to Madrid, whether you’re an art lover or not, the space is impressive. A perfect way to spend an afternoon in the Spanish capital.

Dinner that night was

at Atico, another of chef Ramon Frexia’s endeavours. Situated atop the Principal Hotel, the iconic location offers direct views of the Metropolis building.

For dinner we enjoyed a refined version of huevos rotos, or Spanish broken eggs while the main course featured the most delicate piece of salmon I’ve ever tasted. Nearby is an array of cocktail bars that stay open late – try the gin bar in the basement of Mercado de la Reina (the Madrileños know their gin).

One of the best things about a trip to Madrid is how accessible it is for visiting surrounding areas – Toledo, El Escorial, Avila, Cuenca and Segovia are all just a short distance away.

A must visit, however, is Aranjuez. Aranjuez is the capital of the Las Vegas district just south of Madrid.

Known for its Royal Palace (pictured bottom left), the Palacio Real de Aranjuez is a residence of the King of Spain and a designated a World Heritage Cultural Landscape.

A guided tour of the palace reveals the decadent interior which was designed during the 18th century with a considerable collection of paintings, statues, furniture, mirrors

and chandeliers.

The Porcelain Room and the Morroccan rooms were highlights and absolutely breathtaking.

Make sure to visit the royal gardens too and take the road train around the beautiful monuments.

Aranjuez is an excellent day trip from Madrid and well worth it but if you decide to stay for a night or two, the NH Collection Aranjuez is an ideal spot, located just a stone’s throw from the palace.

If you do plan to spend a night in the area, take a quick taxi to Real Cortijo de Carlos III – a beautiful winery with a long underground cellar. Here enthusiastic guides will explain their wine making process with a tasting afterwards.

Generally speaking, when Irish people go to Spain, we go in search of beaches, but Madrid and the surrounding region have so much to offer all year round.

Its inhabitants are proud of their captivating city, and rightly so.

FLIGHTS Ryanair fly direct from Dublin for about €28 to €40 midweek. Weekend flights are usually from around €30 to €50.

26 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 20 April 2017

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28 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 20 April 2017

SPORT

FastSport DCU, KUBS AND CELTICS ALL IN IRISH U-16 TEAM: DCU Mercy’s Bronagh Power Cassidy, Maeve O’Seaghdha and Rachel Hijsdens, KUBS’ Ella McCloskey and Courtyard Liffey Celtics’ Sorcha Tiernan have all been included in the Irish Under-18 women’s baskeball team announced by Head Coach, Tommy O’Mahony.

The team has been selected ahead of this year’s FIBA Under-18 women’s European Championship, Division B, which will be hosted in Dublin this August.

The championships will run from August 4 to 13 and will be held in two venues – the National Basketball Arena in Tallaght and the National Indoor Arena, Abbotstown.

Speaking about the news, Coach O’Mahony stated: “It was a very difficult decision to select 12 players to go forward for the team as there is such a depth of young talent here in the country. We have been working hard at training and are really looking forward to the months ahead.”

RUGBY: DUBLIN CLUBS LOOK FORWARD TO PLAYOFFS WITH BIG BOOST ON BOARD

Lansdowne and Clontarf’s semi-final home comforts

sport@dublingazette.com

TABLE toppers Lansdowne and defending champions Clontarf will have home advantage in the Ulster Bank League Division 1A semi-finals after a tumultuous final day in the Ulster Bank League.

Next Sunday’s semi-final clashes will pit Lansdowne against fourth-placed Cork Constitution and Clontarf will host third-ranked Young Munster at Castle Avenue.

Lansdowne finished top of the pile on scoring difference following their 40-17 bonus point dismissal of Garryowen whose top-flight survival rests on the upcoming promotion/ relegation play-offs which include three Division 1B clubs.

The headquarters club were winless in the last four rounds but with Scott Deasy back at out-half, they led from the second minute onwards thanks to flanker Charlie Butterworth’s early try on the Aviva Stadium’s back pitch.

Current Ireland Under-20 hooker Tadgh McElroy also touched down as the hosts built a 28-3 lead.

Tries from Ireland Students

Clontarf will face Young Munster at Castle Avenue in their UBL Division 1A semi-final. Picture: Deryck Vincent

international Bailey Faloon and Steven McMahon lifted the Light Blues’ spirits - their second-from-bottom finish means they will host Old Wesley in a play-off semi-final next Sunday.

Lansdowne made sure they had the final say with two closing tries from back-three regulars Daniel McEvoy - the division’s top try scorer with 11 touchdowns - and Eamonn Mills.

Former Ireland Under-20

international Conor O’Brien, who recently returned from injury, bagged two tries in Clontarf’s action-packed 37-28 bonus point win over UCD on their 4G pitch.

The north Dubliners were 21-15 down at half-time, with Josh Murphy, Ciaran Frawley and Andy Marks notching tries for the students who were brimming with confidence after last week’s Colours success.

Tarf got on top in the third

quarter, moving ahead thanks to converted tries from centre O’Brien and out-half David Joyce who also kicked 12 points.

A deserved try for workhorse number 8 Michael Noone, coupled with a Joyce penalty, made it 27 points without reply, before UCD’s Leinster-capped prop Andrew Porter had a late consolation score.

Down at Temple Hill, there were tries aplenty too as Cork Constitution got the better of

St. Mary’s College on a 34-27 scoreline. Backs Ned Hodson and Michael Clune bagged braces for the victors.

Dublin University clawed clear of the relegation zone with a stunning last-minute try from Tim Maupin which saw them overcome Terenure College 27-25 at College Park.

The students, who were bidding to stay up at the end of their first season in Division 1A, won possession back in the final seconds thanks to a big tackle by number 8 Tom Ryan.

The Trinity backs then countered at pace from their own 22, with Colm Hogan and Michael Courtney to the fore, and they put USA international Maupin into space out wide for the game’s decisive score which was coolly converted by U-20 out-half James Fennelly.

Trinity director of rugby Tony Smeeth, whose young side finished sixth in the table, beamed afterwards: “It was just unbelievable.

“I can’t describe it really. I didn’t think we were going to win. That was the try of the year, that last one. You won’t see many tries better than that in College Park.”

Railway trio set for Japan leg of World Sevens series  sport@dublingazette.com

Railway Union sisters Kim and Stacey Flood

R AILWAY Union trio Kim Flood, Stacey Flood and AmeeLeigh Murphy-Crowe are among a quartet of Dubliners – along with Clondalkin woman Hannah Tyrrell – who were named in Anthony Eddy’s HSBC World Rugby Women’s Sevens Series squad to play in Kitakyushu 7s next weekend.

It follows their eighth place at the Las Vegas 7s, the second successive tournament in a row that the side to made the quarterFinals.

The new additions to the squad for Kitakyushu are Kim Flood, Louise Galvin, Katie Heffernan and Emma Murphy.

19-year-old Heffernan could be set to make her World Series debut, having won her first senior 7s cap last summer at the Rugby Europe Grand Prix in Malemort.

Ireland will face Fiji in their opening game of Pool B, before meeting Australia and then will finish Day 1 against Brazil.

All three teams will be familiar to one another, having all been drawn into the same pool at the Sydney 7s, where Ireland defeat-

ed both Fiji and Brazil on Day 1.

The Japan leg of the World Series will see Ireland and the Fijians meet for the fourth successive tournament this season – the sides drew in Dubai, Ireland claimed the win in Sydney and Fiji evened the scores as they were victorious in Las Vegas.

Commenting on the squad announcement, Eddy said: “We have an experienced side travelling to Japan next week for the fourth stage of the World Sevens Series.

“We have managed to make the quarter finals in the last two

tournaments, so that will be a target for us again in Japan. Hopefully we can have a productive Day 2 and achieve some really good results.

“The players have worked extremely hard and have shown good improvement all year, so I am sure they are looking forward to the Japan tournament to build on their performances.

“It will be a challenge however, as we face the ever-improving Brazil, Fiji, who we are very familiar with having met them regularly throughout the series and Australia,”

20 April 2017 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

FASTSport

Harte at the heart of Wesley promotion bid

Donnybrook side claim last Ulster Bank League Division 1A promotion playoff place with narrow win over UCC in home turf, earning their fourth during the 1B regular campaign UBL DIVISION 1B

Dubliners abound in basketball All-Stars DUBLINERS abounded in the Basketball Ireland’s National League All Stars named this week with the Player of the Year for each division and five stars named for each division.

The All Stars were selected from the votes of the National League coaches who voted for the players every month from the start of the season until the end of March.

In the men’s Super League, Garvey’s Tralee Warriors’ star guard, Trae Pemberton scooped his first All Star here in Ireland, but has also secured the title of Player of the Year after a superb season with the Kerry side.

The rest of the All-Star side, though, hail from Dublin clubs as Pyrobel Killester’s Jermaine Turner and Templeogue’s Mike Bonaparte have picked up their second successive All-Stars.

They are joined by new recipients Jose Maria Gil Narbon of Griffith Swords Thunder and Templeogue’s Lorcan Murphy.

The top three clubs in this year’s Women’s Super League meanwhile have All-Star recipients on their rosters, with Ambassador UCC Glanmire’s Claire Rockall picking up her third successive All-Star and also winning the Women’s Super League title of Player of the Year 2016/17 after a phenomenal season with the Cork side.

Jazmen Boone of Courtyard Liffey Celtics meanwhile has bagged her second consecutive All-Star, while Glanmire’s Grainne Dwyer, Emma O’Connor of Liffey Celtics and Sarah Fairbanks of DCU Mercy make up the remaining spots.

In the Women’s Division One, Meagan Hoffman of Oblate Dynamos received the prestigious award as one of this league’s All-Stars.

“We’re delighted to honour the very best of our leagues for the 2016-17 season,” said Women’s National League Commissioner Matthew Hall. “The All Stars were brought back in 2015 and have proven to be very popular since then.

This year’s awards recognise the best and most consistent players in Ireland.”

Old Wesley 19 UCC 5  sport@dublingazette.com

EAGER to put a disappointing away loss to Dolphin, Old Wesley got the win they needed last weekend at Donnybrook against UCC to get into the promotion playoffs for the Ulster Bank League Division 1A. They were out of the blocks early in this final AIL fixture played in perfect conditions at Donnybrook. A huge tackle

by Paul Harte, forcing a knock on, was an early indication of Wesley’s intent and ambition.

For the first 15 minutes, play was confined to the UCC half of the pitch but Wesley only had a Tim Clifford penalty goal to their name.

Once the Cork side did get into the Wesley half,

their mobile back line looked dangerous. It took a desperate corner flag tackle into touch by Rory Stynes to prevent UCC scoring the first try.

However, with 20 minutes gone, a break by centre Paul Kiernan, son of former international Michael Kiernan, found the Wesley defence thin and with two men outside him he ran in for the first try of the match.

The more physical Wesley pack responded and soon had the opposition having to dig deep in defence but, despite their territorial and possession advantage, they could not cross the whitewash.

With half time approaching, all they had on the scoreboard was a second Clifford penalty goal. Some good carries again tested the opposition defence in a late Wesley rally but it came to naught, leaving the

half time score 6-5 to Old Wesley.

Now playing into a breeze, Wesley had to score first in order to avoid any momentum build up by the Cork students. Sure enough, a break by Conor Maguire had UCC on the back foot and brought play back into the opposition half.

Then, it was quick recycled-ball taken on by David Rowley and a pass to Paul Harte.

Harte, still with a lot to do, switched on the after burners and sprinted 30 metres, beating a number of tackles to score Wesley’s first try.

The home side was now attacking and counterattacking with good effect, with substitutes Ger Finucane and Michael Dunleavy adding positive impact. Stynes, with his evasive style of running, found space out wide inside the UCC 22.

He passed to Harte who this time sprinted in untouched for his and Old Wesley’s second try.

The conversion came back off the post. Indeed, both team’s place-kickers had a poor day with the boot.

Wesley were now starting to turn the screw and spent most of the rest of the second half in opposition territory.

Despite having a number of scoring opportunities, including two five metre line outs and a five metre scrum, they were denied any more tries, partly due to solid UCC defence and partly due to some frustrating errors.

A yellow card for a high tackle by UCC second row Daragh Moloney

seemed to open the door for Old Wesley but their only return was another Clifford penalty goal.

However, now with a 14 point lead, the result was in no doubt and despite a late UCC counterattack and a five metre scrum the scoreboard remained unchanged.

Nevertheless a 19-5 win over a side that had been on a roll was no mean achievement. The win means Old Wesley finish a highly commendable fourth in the league and now play Garryowen on April 23 at Dooradoyle, in the play-off semi-final.

The winner of that match will play the winner of Naas v UL Bohemian for a place in next season’s premier division.

Wesley’s Conor Maguire makes incisive break into the UCC 22, left, lock,while Michael Dunleavy, right, muscles his way through. Picture: Ken Richardson

GAZETTE

30 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 20 April 2017

SPORT

FASTSport

SOCCER: SHANOWEN CLUB HOSTS EUROPEAN ELITE FOR ACADEMY CUP

Ballymun continue push for yet more promotion BALLYMUN United continued their push for a third promotion in four seasons as they continued their push in the LSL Sunday Senior 1A with a crucial tie with Liffey Wanderers on the horizon.

Like in many of the LSL divisions this year, several teams are still in with a shout of winning the league. None more so than Ballymun who beat Mount Merrion 5-1 at home to cement their position at the top of the table and provide a boost going into their vital game with Liffey Wanderers.

Ballymun went into the game having not lost in eight but Mount Merrion arrived believing they could cause an upset as they fight for survival.

Sitting third from bottom with just 12 points form 22 games, they badly needed a win.

However, belief could only get them so far and eventually the reason why Ballymun sit at the summit of the division began to shine through.

They took the lead through Dylan O’Driscoll after just 10 minutes when he raced onto an excellent pass from midfield and lifted the ball over the keeper and into the net.

It didn’t take long before Ryan Scully made it 2-0 by finding space at the back post to prod home a Sean Rogers cross.

Scully almost had Mount Merrion dead and buried shortly afterwards but he missed a great chance and Mount Merrion pulled one back from a set piece to give themselves hope.

That strike returned the belief the visitors arrived with and they closed out the half being firmly in top and Ballymun struggling to reassert their dominance.

Ballymun started the second half stronger, however, and restored their two-goal advantage through Chris Sheridan. His strike took everyone by surprise, netting as Mount Merrion were in the process of setting up their defence for a free kick.

Sheridan didn’t fancy waiting around and simply rolled the ball into the back of the net.

Noel Downey came off the bench to add another, producing a neat finish to secure the points.

Another substitute Lee Somers then added a fifth.

The result keeps Ballymun ahead of Tullamore Town by one point but with two games in hand.

Liffey Wanderers are a point further behind.

Barcelona celebrate their Academy Cup success

Kevin’s Barca deja vu sport@dublingazette.com

DEJA VU struck for St Kevin’s Boys as they once again lost on penalties in the final of their academy cup at the weekend.

Deportivo La Coruna, Olympique Marseille, KRC Genk and West Bromwich Albion all joined European powerhouses Barcelona in Shanowen Park and, once again, Kevin’s almost came out on top.

The Santry side fell behind four minutes into the second half against Barca through Xavier Planas Cruz. It was 2-0 shortly afterwards when Pol Munoz Mila picked up the ball in his own half before sauntering past

three players and playing in Aleix Garrido Canzizares via Cruz.

It looked like St Kevin’s days were numbered until three minutes from time when the excellent Evan Ferguson broke free down the right before cutting inside, rounding the keeper and slotting home.

Kevin’s used up every one of the four minutes added on at the end of the game and equalised right at the death with Ferguson’s second.

Jamie Mullins floated a free kick into the box that was headed onto the post.

The ball rebounded into the path of Ferguson who made no mistake.

It was a spirited fightback from Kevin’s that

PARALYMPIC HERO Kelly receives special recognition award THE successes of Paralympian Ailbhe Kelly were celebrated recently at the Castleknock Hotel where she received a Special Recognition Award from her local GAA club, Castleknock. Kelly, currently a leaving certificate student, represented Ireland at the Paralympics in Rio last year. She will soon be making preparations for further major competitions in 2018.

Presenting the award Castleknock GAA Club, secretary Sean McLaughlin praised Kelly as an inspiration to her peers, sports people and her local community in Dublin 15.

delighted the crowd at Shanowen but their luck eventually ran out when Barcelona were on penalties.

Kevin’s had reached the final after an impressive performance against Deportivo in the semifinal that saw them walk away with a 2-0 win. Mullins was the star of the show and he also ran it.

Delivering dangerous cross after cross from corners, floating in testing free kicks and stopping Deportivo from ever getting a foothold in the game with tenacious tackling, were just a few examples of how dominant Mullins was.

The game started with both sides enjoying possession of the ball but as

the first half wore on, it was obvious Kevin’s were the better side. They had the first shot of the game after nine minutes, Alex O’Brien raced onto a through ball but put his shot into the side netting.

Deportivo then had a decent chance but Kevin’s had a better one after 10 minutes when Curtis found Cian Kelly with a ball over the top, but his effort was blocked.

The first shot on target came a minute later and again it was Kevin’s who created it. Ferguson met a cross from the right wing but his header was straight at the keeper.

Kevin’s almost took the lead 20 minutes in when O’Brien tried to get on

the end of a shot that was deflected onto the post by a Deportivo defender, but the keeper got their first to smother the ball.

They did eventually score before half-time when Sean Grehan flicked on Mullins’ corner into the path of Ferguson to prod home.

Deportivo almost equalised in the second half when one of their players rounded Fiachra Pagel in the Kevin’s goal, but he watched on in despair as his shot hit the post.

Kevin’s wrapped up the victory four minutes from time when Mullins drifted an in-swinging cross into the box that Curtis got over the line on the second attempt.

20 April 2017 DUBLIN CITY GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

LADIES FOOTBALL: DUBS BLOW AWAY KILDARE IN FIRST HALF

UNDER-21Semi-final

Brian Howard of Dublin receives the Man of the Match award from Fintan Slye, CEO of EirGrid Pictures: Cody Glenn/Sportsfile

Dublin’s minor footballers celebrate their seventh Leinster title in a row. Pictures: Maurice Grehan/GAAPics.com

Tarf quartet shine in seventh heaven

LEINSTER MINOR FINAL

Dublin 6-13 Kildare 2-12  sport@dublingazette.com

FOUR Clontarf women starred as Dublin minors retained the Leinster championship for the seventh successive year with a comprehensive victory over Kildare.

Caoimhe O’Connor hit the net, while Heather Bolger, Sarah Fagan and Aoife Bell featured as dominant Dublin prevailed 6-13 to 2-12 in Clane on Easter Monday.

Clanna Gael Fontenoy’s Ella Thirroueiz and Parnells’ Siabh Hannigan were also part of a sensational attacking display.

The destination of the title was effectively settled by the break as Dublin went into the changing rooms with a 5-8 to 1-6 lead, with four of those goals coming between the 11th and 16th minutes.

Dublin showed just why they have dominated at age-grade level in recent years with a devastating attacking performance that left their neighbours scrambling for answers.

The Lilywhites had chances in the early stages but failed to make them count. The Girls in Blue were ruthless, by contrast, as shown by the scoring blitz that effectively settled the tie.

The Dubs led by 0-3 to 0-2 after ten minutes, and a tightly-contested affair looked to be on the cards until Sheehan took the game by the scruff of the neck with a clinical forward display.

St John’s clubwoman Sheehan scored her first goal in the 11th minute and followed it up with her second two minutes later.

Caoimhe O’Connor added a third goal in the 14th minute before Sheehan completed a fiveminute hat trick to put the champions in firm control.

The Ballinteer player added her fourth goal, and Dublin’s fifth, in the 27th minute to cap of a dazzling first-half display as her team took an unassailable 14-point lead into the break.

Dublin refused to take their foot off the gas in the second half and landed two quick points thanks

to a fine solo effort from Cuala’s Eimear Loughlin and one from O’Connor.

There was time for Naomh Olaf ’s Ciara O’Sullivan to add goal number six 15 minutes into the second half.

The substitute buried the rebound after Sheehan’s initial effort had been well saved by Lilywhites goalkeeper Emily McGrory.

Fingallians’ Dearbhla Snow and St Sylvesters’ Danielle Lawless were also impressive as they each notched 0-3 tallies.

Kildare belatedly struck back, with substitute and

Irish soccer international Lauren Kelly scoring 1-4 in the second half including a penalty for a technical foul in the small square.

The damage had been done in that blistering first half, however, and Dublin easily held to on to seal their ninth championship of the last ten and seventh in a row.

The Leinster champions will have time to reflect on a job well done with a date against the yet-to-bedetermined winners of the Connacht minor championship on either July 15 or 16.

Farrell’s flyers through to All-Ireland decider DUBLIN’S Under-21s saw off Donegal 1-13 to 0-9 to reach this year’s EirGrid All-Ireland Under-21 football championship final.

The Dubs will face Galway in the final, themselves underdog victors over Kerry in their semi-final, on Saturday, April 29.

Dessie Farrell’s side came with a tactical game that worked brilliantly as they stymied Donegal’s high-paced counter-attacking game that had paid rich dividends in their successful Ulster campaign, the final of which only took place last Monday night.

Dublin also lost Con O’Callaghan to a fourth minute black card but their work-rate and attitude ensured that they were not rocked by the loss of such a talented forward and team co-captain while midfielder Andy Foley had to be replaced in the 23rd minute owing to injury.

The boys in blue led 0-5 to 0-2 at the interval and had shut down their opponents for the opening 24 minutes before Donegal eventually opened their account, to make it 0-4 to 0-1, with a Michael Langan free.

The Dubs were more clinical in possession and were patient and strong in possession with players such as Brian Howard playing a real leadership role while Glenn O’Reilly kicked two first half points with Con O’Callaghan, Tom Fox and the impressive Aaron Byrne all on target.

Donegal pegged the Dubs back with the first two points of the second half but crucially Dublin responded with points from Aaron Byrne, Cian Murphy and a brace of frees from Byrne to make it 0-9 to 0-4.

The energetic Darren Byrne popped up in attack to push Dublin 0-10 to 0-5 clear before the only goal of the game arrived in the 50th minute when Sean McMahon burst onto the end of a superb Dublin move to fire to the roof of the net.

Chris Sallier rocked Donegal back with a monster point and Dublin were out of sight when leading 1-11 to 0-6 before Andrew McGowan gave them further space when on target.

Donegal pressed to the finish but Dublin’s defence held strong while at the other end Cian Murphy added his second score of the day to close out the result.

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ALL OF YOUR DUBLIN CITY SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 28-31

ACADEMY CUP: St Kevin’s push Barcelona all the way as Shanowen hosts another brilliant tournament P30

APRIL 20-26, 2017

DUB DUOS HOME COMFORTS: Clontarf and Lansdowne pin down semi-final bonus P29

St Vincent’s celebrating their 2016 Dublin senior football championship success. Picture: Grainne McKinney

SFC comes into focus St Vincent’s begin the defence of the Dublin senior football championship crown this weekend with 16 ties beginning the competition with a bang

 JAMES HENDICOTT

sport@dublingazette.com

AS COUNTY football hits its pre-provincial break, the Dublin Senior Football Championship cranks up this week with some fiery match ups in the opening round of what’s always a fiercely hard-fought competition.

Several of the contests will take place at Parnell Park including holders St Vincent’s crossing the Malahide Road to face off against one of the competition’s outsiders, Round Tower Clondalkin.

Vincent’s made the All-Ireland semi-finals last time around, before being beaten by the astonishing story of rural outfit Slaughtneil.

The Derry club reached the latter stages of the All-Ireland club championships in football, hurling and camogie in 2016.

The side that Vincent’s defeated in last year’s Dublin final, Castleknock, were 2016’s surprise package. The Somerton side had not won a Senior Championship game ahead of last year’s charge, yet they saw off latter-stage regulars St Jude’s and several other traditionally higherplaced clubs before losing to Vincent’s in the final.

Castleknock will play Templeogue Synge Street in their first championship outing of 2017.

There are a couple of tasty derbys to look forward to with underdogs St Peregrine’s – who

play at intermediate level in the league – facing local opposition in powerhouse St Brigid’s. Last year’s intermediate champions, Swords club Fingallians, have been rewarded with a match up against fierce Fingal rivals Skerries Harps.

Peregrine’s and Fingallians will welcome back Dublin stars Eric Lowndes and Paul Flynn respectively into their panels.

Of the remaining favourites, Dean Rock’s Ballymun Kickham’s will be confident of progress against St Patrick’s Palmerstown.

St Jude’s head to Parnell Park with similar expectations against Naomh Mearnog with Kevin McManamon likely to play a role, and Ballyboden St Enda’s are in the same venue later the same evening, facing off against the

Brogan clan in a tough draw against St Oliver Plunkett’s ER. Having played only a single league game so far this season, Jonny Cooper’s Na Fianna are the only unbeaten top tier side other than league leaders Vincent’s going into the ties, and face Naomh Olaf, unbeaten in the second tier.

Kilmacud Crokes will play another of the senior outsiders, Erin’s Isle, while Parnells face down Fingal Ravens in Balgriffin.

The opening senior championship games of the season get underway this Thursday, April 20, with all 16 ties expected to have been decided by late in the evening of April 22. The feast of football offers the first ‘must win’ ties for the county’s biggest club sides.