Dublin Gazette: City Edition

DublinGazette APRIL 11-17, 2019

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THE LATEST NEWS & SPORT FROM THE DUBLIN CITY COUNCIL AREA

Phibsboro revamp hangs in the balance amid row RACHEL D’ARCY

A ROW is rumbling on between developers of Phibsboro Shopping Centre and Tesco that could see the project shelved indefinitely if it’s not resolved.

The developers, Mm Capital, allege that Tesco

originally supported revamp efforts, but “new” demands from Tesco would make the revamp financially unfeasible.

However, Tesco say that the developer is “undermining” their ability to trade by not allowing them to receive deliveries to the front of the store, as they have for the past two decades.

The row has resulted in Bohemians Football Club releasing a statement, saying their members were aware of the on-going row, and clarifying that if the Phibsboro Shopping Centre development is shelved, that the adjoining Dalymount Park revamp is still set to continue, with some minor design changes.

FULL STORY ON PAGE 8

2 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 11 April 2019

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NEW DEVELOPMENT WILL BE TALLEST IN THE COUNTRY

Tara Street’s 22 floor tower causes conflict

Book a break for the family this Easter

 RACHEL D’ARCY

rdarcy@dublingazette.com

AN TAISCE have slammed the approval of a 22-storey building for Tara Street, saying that the tower will have ‘major repercussions’ for the city.

The building, upon completion, will become the tallest building in Ireland, towering 30 meters above Liberty Hall. It is set to be developed by the Ronan Group, owned by Johnny Ronan.

Approval was given for the highrise project by An Bord Pleanala last week, with construction expect-

FASTNews

An artist’s impression of the new 22-storey tower that’s set for Tara Street

ed to begin imminently.

An Taisce, who work to preserve and protect Ireland’s natural and built heritage, say that establishing a high rise tower on the quays is ‘gravely erro-

neous’.

In a statement, the organisation said: “The dec ision of An Bord Pleanála… is a catastrophic error which undoes decades of planning con-

trol in Dublin and will irrevocably damage the city’s irreplaceable character.

“The allowing of highrise towers in the centre of Dublin is gravely erroneous.

“The decision will have major repercussions for the status of Dublin; it is unlikely to now achieve the coveted UNESCO World Heritage Site status for ‘Historic City of Dublin’, which requires internationally-accepted standards for protection, conservation and management of the historic urban landscape.”

An Taisce’s comments contrast those made by business group Dublin Chamber, who support the development of taller buildings in the capital.

The group last year provided a letter of support for the 22-storey project.

Dublin Chamber CEO Mary Rose Burke said: “This is a progressive decision for Dublin and one that will hopefully mark a step-change in Ireland’s attitude towards taller buildings.

“While all buildings over 8-storeys should be carefully considered for their impact on the city’s skyline, taller buildings can add to and become emblematic of the city, in the same way the Samuel Beckett Bridge has become a symbol of Dublin.”

THIS EASTER book a family escape to The Hillgrove Hotel & Spa Monaghan where parents can sit back, relax and enjoy the break away while the hotel’s friendly staff keep their little ones fully entertained.

The hotel’s supervised Kids Club is open for 7 hours every day, free to all little guests staying at the hotel. There’s a jam-packed activity timetable that includes Junior Yoga, arts and crafts, dodgeball, dancing, nature hunts, pizza making and much more.

Children under 12 also dine for free Monday to Saturday from 5pm to 6pm in the Kids Club. Outside of these hours they can dine for free in PK’s Bar when an adult meal is also purchased from the delicious evening menu.

This special Easter Family Break is available to book today from Friday 12th to Sunday 28th of April at a rate from €125 midweek or €190 at weekends, based on two adults and 2 children (under 12) sharing. Check-in to one of the hotel’s spacious family rooms this Easter for an overnight stay that includes full Irish Breakfast and complimentary use of the hotel’s leisure centre facilities for all the family.

For your chance to win a stay with Hillgrove, see our competition on P15!

Dublin man wins ‘Apprentice-ship’ A DUBLIN MAN has won a prestigious travel competition, which will see him travel the world for three weeks this summer.

Harry McNulty, 26, beat out over 37,000 other candidates from around the globe to be selected as Royal Caribbean International’s official Shore Explorer Apprentice.

Harry said: “This has come as a bit of a shock, but an amazing one… The chance to travel the world and inspire people by capturing content of extraordinary places is the opportunity of a lifetime. I can’t wait for the adventure to get started and give it everything that I’ve got!”

Cashless coffee shop opens in city centre IRELAND’S first cashless coffee shop has opened it’s doors for business on George’s Street.

Bear Market Coffee opened last Monday, and are an entirely cashless shop - meaning that they only accept contactless card, smartphone or smartwatch payments in store, no cash.

On Facebook, Bear Market said: “We are excited about the improved customer experience, service and efficiency we can offer by going completely cashless with [the George’s Street store].”

11 April 2019 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 3

FINGLAS: MONKEY SEIZED IN RAID IN CARE OF DSPCA; ONE WOMAN HAS BEEN CHARGED

Monkey found in drug bust in the safe hands of DSPCA RACHEL D’ARCY

A MONKEY seized as part of a drugs bust in Finglas last week has found a new home with the DSPCA. George the Monkey was found as part of a series of raids targeted at an organised crime gang in the northside suburb.

He was found in a small cage at the scene of one of the raids in a halting site in Finglas.

On Monday, Dublin Zoo released an update on the monkey, who was named George by An Garda Siochana, saying that the marmoset was in the safe hands of the DSPCA.

It is believed that an investigation has now begun to try and discover how the monkey, who is part of a species native to South America, was sourced and brought into Ireland. The marmoset is worth an estimated €2,000.

Other animals were found on the scene also, including dogs and fowl.

While George the Monkey was an interesting discovery in the raids, Gardai have said that a number of machine guns retrieved in the operation were a significant find in the operation.

During the course of the search Gardai discovered a machine pistol, a sub-machine gun, one .357 calibre Revolver, 300 Rounds

of assorted 9mm and .357 ammunition and 227 Rounds of 12 gauge Shotgun Cartridges.

An estimated €100,000 worth of cocaine and other drugs were also seized, as well as €3,000 of clothing.

Three people were arrested in relation to the raid last Friday, with a woman being charged on Saturday under the Theft and Fraud Offences Act, 2001, and will appear in court at a later date.

The two men arrested in connection with the raid have since been released without charge, with a file to be prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.

George the Monkey, found in last week’s raid

Cabra’s Kojaque hits the FASTNews big time with YouTube nod Is your puppy the 2019 dog of the year?

RACHEL D’ARCY

A RAPPER from Cabra w h o’s b e e n m a k i n g waves in his genre has been named as one of 11 artists worldwide to be selected for a prestigious YouTube music programme.

Kevin Smith, better known by his stage name Kojaque, has been selected for YouTube Music’s Foundry programme. The initiative aims to help musicians bring their sounds to new audiences, and to help them develop lasting relationships with their fans.

Kojaque has made a name for himself on the Irish music scene in the last 12 months with the release of his debut project, Deli Day Dreams, that has led to the Cabra rapper selling out shows across Ireland and the UK. Speaking the Foundry programme, Kojaque s a i d : “ My m e n t a l ity towards music has all been DIY; independence when it comes to creativity is key for me. My YouTube channel has given me the opportunity to showcase that output to the world without interference.

“Having the support of YouTube Music Foundry means I can continue to create art with my friends exactly the way

we want to make it.”

He co-founded independent label Soft Boy Records, through which he releases his own music.

The musician has worked with several notable Irish producers such as Wastefellow and JarJarJr, with his own influence on Ireland’s hip-hop scene steadily growing.

Kojaque has become known for his poetic lyricism, taking Dublin life as a main inspiration for his music. Most recently, he played to a packed-out audience in Whelan’s to celebrate a year of the release of his debut project, as well as making his way to the prestigious South by South West festival in Texas.

He will also head off on another heavily anticipated tour of the UK and Ireland this May. Inductees into the Foundry programme will receive marketing promotion and education on the best ways to engage and grow their audience on an international scale, in addition to guidance on how to develop their music and visual content.

As well as Kojaque, acts selected by YouTube for this year’s programme include US based guitarist Omar Apollo, Tokyo rock band Ace Collection, Brussels based rapper ICO and iyla, an R&B

Cabra native Kojaque has landed a prestigious spot on YouTube Music’s Foundry programme

“

Having the support of YouTube Foundry means I can continue to create art with my friends exactly the way that we want to make it singer from Los Angeles.

Former inductees to the Foundry programme since it’s beginning in 2016 include global pop-

star Dua Lipa, rising Spanish hip-hop starlet Rosalia, American sister singer songwriters Chloe x Halle and UK breakout

rapper Dave – meaning the future certainly looks bright for Kojaque as one of this year’s artists.

To check out Kojaque’s

music, make sure to check out his Twitter @kojaque, or his Facebook page by searching ‘Kojaque’.

THE HUNT is underway to find Dublin’s Puppy of the Year, who will go on to take part in the 2019 Ireland’s Puppy of the Year competition.

This is the fifth year of the competition, with a record number of puppies being entered into last year’s competition, meaning the 2019 contest could be the most competitive yet.

The winner of the coveted Puppy of the Year title will feature in national campaigns for Petmania.

Over the next two months, through public voting and a grand final dog show, the prize puppy will become the face of Petmania for 2019/2020. The winning puppy will receive a top prize worth over €1500.

Emily Miller, Petmania’s Marketing Manager, said: “We are excited to launch our fifth ever Puppy of the Year competition. This year we will crown a Dublin Puppy of the Year who will go forward for the national Puppy of the Year title.”

To be eligible, puppies must be under the age of one from Saturday 6th April 2019.

Once entries open, there will be three weeks to register puppies in any of Petmania’s 12 nationwide stores.

4 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 11 April 2019

IRELAND’S GOT TALENT: DANCE TROUPE CROWNED WINNERS

dublin

DIARY Creative activities and interests to the fore in a diverse range of things to do in Dublin this week

A DAY IN MAY TAKES TO STAGE

Ireland’s Got Talent winners, Back Street Dance Studio

BSD ‘on cloud nine’ after talent show win SYLVIA POWNALL

BACK Street Dance Studio are still on a high after a “whirlwind” weekend that saw them crowned winners of TV reality contest Ireland’s Got Talent.

They topped the public vote on Sunday night, netting a €50,000 prize fund as well as the chance to feature in a one-hour TV programme on Virgin Media.

Dance teacher Niamh Carroll yesterday reflected on a “crazy” few days for the Swords-based Hip-Hop academy as they come to

“

The kids deserved it for all the hard work they put it, but it was still a huge surprise

terms with their massive win.

She told Dublin Gazette: “We knew the kids deserved it for all the hard work they put in but when they were announced as winners it was still a huge surprise.

“These kids are only young, their career is only starting, and this is a massive boost for them.”

One member of the troupe, 17-year-old Paddy Ferris, sat his Leaving Cert Spanish oral exam before his rehearsal on Friday and had to go into school afterwards.

Niamh revealed that there were also at least half a dozen of the 38 members on stage, aged from 10 up to 17, who were sitting their Junior Certificate this

year.

She said: “Paddy was coming to the studios with his books for his French and Irish orals. But he gave 100%, just like every single one of them did.”

BSD collectively credits Sunday as “the most incredible day” they’ve had since opening their doors at Airside in 2003.

They said their ethos was to create a safe place for dancers where they could “grow up, feel at

home, break away from their problems. Somewhere that they can be themselves and somewhere that they can live their dreams.”

With this in mind, Niamh hit out at meanspirited critics who were quick to slam Sunday night’s win claiming that the voting system needed to change because it gives large dance troupes an unfair advantage.

She said: “People picked up the phone and voted.

We put in the hard work, the kids trained and trained, and we got the votes, so that was that. I think they said there was 800 votes in it so that was quite close.”

Filming will start on the BSD special, which will air during next year’s run of IGT on Virgin Media, in coming weeks but in the meantime it’s business as usual.

Niamh said: “They’re all buzzing and they’re still on cloud nine. We’ve given them a couple of days off after a whirlwind of emotions, but after that it’s back into studio to plan what our next steps are.”

ON MAY 23 2015, Ireland made history by becoming the first nation in the world to introduce marriage equality by popular vote.

In his book, A Day In May, Charlie Bird presented the stories of some of those people most deeply affected by the referendum result. Now, the theatrical adaption of Bird’s book is set to take to the stage in Civic Theatre, Tallaght, Pavilion Theatre, Dun Laoghaire and Draoicht, Blanchardstown.

Directed by Gerard Stembridge, Colin Murphy’s theatrical adaptation takes us from the dark days of 1983, through the Norris legal battle and decriminalisation, through the divisions within the gay community over civil partnership and right up to #hometovote.

All proceeds from ticket sales will go to Pieta House, with tickets priced at €20/€22.

RECORD STORE DAY AT TOWER THIS WEEKEND will see the ultimate event for music and vinyl lovers take place in Tower Records on Dawson Street.

Celebrating the now-legendary Record Store Day and the 11th year of the international event, the independent retailer have a jam-packed schedule of in store performances all weekend as they launch their massive vinyl sale.

On Thursday April 11, they will have Walking On Cars launching their new album ‘Colours’, before they embark on a nationwide tour. To be in with a chance to attend the launch pre-order, Walking on Cars fans can preorder the new album in store or online.

On Friday afternoon, April 12, All Tvvins will visit Dawson Street for an instore performance of tracks from their second album ‘Just To Exist’ , coinciding with the album’s release.

Saturday is the big day itself and Tower Records will be open from 8am in both their O’Connell St & Dawson St stores. The line is expected to start in the early hours of the morning so join the queue early to avoid disappointment! There will be in-store competitions and more on the day.

For more information, visit towerrecords.ie.

GAME OF THRONES QUIZ NIGHT TO CELEBRATE the return - and final season - of Game of Thrones this weekend, Fibber Magees are hosting a table quiz all about the much-loved fantasy show.

Running from 5pm this Sunday, April 14 ahead of the season premiere of the show, there’s lots scheduled for the evening including food and drink specials and GOT themed pitchers, a Game of Thrones raffle, and great prizes for winning team.

Dressing up is also encouraged to truly get into the spirit as the world waves goodbye to one of the biggest cult shows in recent years.

For more information and to book a table, visit bit.ly/2VyuT0a.

Celebrate - or mourn - the end of Game of Thrones this weekend at Fibber Magees

11 April 2019 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 5

CHARITY: WINNERS OF GOOGLE.ORG IMPACT CHALLENGE ANNOUNCED LAST WEEK

Over €1m in grants awarded to five of the city’s non-profits PADRAIG CONLON

Sile Maguire, Mark O’Doherty both from Down Syndrome Ireland with Stuart McLaughlin, Google.org Senior Regional Manager, EMEA. Picture: Shane O’Neill

FASTNews Hundreds visit maths exam revision course Griffith College welcomed hundreds of Leaving Certificate students last weekend for its annual free maths revision course.

Across the weekend, almost 700 students attended the workshop.

Saturday welcomed ordinary level students while higher level students visited the campus on Sunday.

Director of Academic Programmes at Griffith College Dr Tomás Mac Eochagáin, presented the course. Dr Mac Eochagáin has over 25 years of experience teaching mathematics and securing excellent exam results.

All sessions from the weekend were recorded and will be online to all participants until after the examinations in June.

UCD grad wins business award A Dublin woman has been honoured as one of UCD’s Business Alumni of the Year 2019.

Clare Gilmartin, who is the CEO of Trainline, was bestowed with the honour at an awards dinner last week at the InterContinental Hotel in Ballsbridge.

This year celebrated the 28th year of the awards.

She joins a prominent list of former alumni, including Stephen Kavanagh, CEO of Aer Lingus and the former director of Primark, Breege O’Donoghue.

A NUMBER OF non-profit organisations and social enterprises working to improve Dublin communities were awarded €1m in grants as part of the Google.org Impact Challenge.

Five grants of €100,000 and 10 grants of €50,000 were awarded to 15 charities, with winners selected by a panel of judges and an online public vote.

The five overall winners were announced at a gala event at The Foundry in Google’s Dublin offices

on April 4.

Winners included A Lust for Life, a platform to share creative mental health content, Citywise Education which provides educational support to young people, the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre, SeniorLine, a peer-to-peer IT education facility for older people and Down Syndrome Ireland.

Speaking at the awards, Lord Mayor of Dublin Nial Ring said: “It has been wonderful to be part of the judging panel and to have the opportunity to recognise just some of the voluntary organisations and social

enterprises who are contributing to our city.

“The five charities named today represent some of the most pressing issues and underserved communities in Ireland, covering mental health, disadvantaged community education, special needs and older people”.

Fionnuala Meehan, head of Google Ireland, commented: “The five months since we launched the Impact Challenge have been really awe-inspiring.

“We received over 150 entries from every imaginable community initia-

tive. It was really heartening to see so much energy and enthusiasm being invested into local and grassroots projects.

“Dublin has been very good to us in the last 15 years, so we have been very mindful of supporting local projects as much as possible, and the Google.org Impact Challenge Dublin is the latest in a long line of these endeavours.

“We’re now looking forward to working with all of the winners and helping them use their funds in the best possible way to realise their goals.”

Liffey Cycle Route gets the green light from DCC

RACHEL D’ARCY

AFTER NEARLY SEVEN years in the making, plans have been announced for the Liffey Cycle Route.

Planning for the project by the National Transport Authority began seven years ago, but now the €20m project has been revealed for the quays by the NTA and Dublin City Council.

The segregated 5km cycle path will run on both sides of the Liffey.

More than 30 trees will be removed to facilitate the track, in addition to the loss of more than 100 parking spaces.

However, unlike previous plans, the newly proposed route will not result in cars or buses being diverted away from the quays.

Cycling campaigners have said that the new plans will address a number of blackspots for cyclists along the River

Liffey, with hopes that the number of incidents along the quays will be reduced thanks to the plans.

The route will run in both directions between the Phoenix Park and the East Link Bridge.

Beginning at Phoenix Park, it will run along the left hand side to Fr Mathew Bridge next to the Four Courts, along the buildings side of the road.

Fro m t h e re o n to O’Connell Bridge, the route will move riverside in an attempt to avoid impacting on bus stops along Bachelors Walk and Aston Quay.

The cycleway will remain riverside for the continuation of it’s length until the East Link Bridge.

Commenting on the plan, Anne Graham, Chief Executive Officer of the NTA, said: “The Liffey Cycle Route is a key objective of the cycle network plan for the city and NTA has been closely involved

in this project since 2012.

“This plan means there will be safer cycling facilities and an improved environment for pedestrians along the Liffey and we believe that this will encourage more people to cycle and walk as part of their daily commute.

“This is good news for commuters, but it’s also good news when it comes to reducing our carbon emissions.”

Minister for Transport, Shane Ross, welcomed the proposals for the cycleway.

Minister Ross said: “The Liffey Cycle Route will provide a safe and segregated cycle track right through the heart of our capital city. From listening to the concerns of cyclists over the past few years I know that this is something which will be very much welcomed by them... and hope this long-awaited project can now move forward.”

6 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 11 April 2019

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Katie and Aisling John Russell and Oisin Hoy

Jude Hanratty and Julie Morissey

Foe Dodd, Stephen McGinn and Shane McIntyre. Pictures: Alison O’Hanlon

Conor Cronin and Shauna Lunney

A fantastic night at The OsKaRs

T Michelle and Robert Potthoff

HE Bonnington Hotel hosted an incredible night last week as Clontarf GAA held their first OsKaRs. The amazing community event was a fundraiser for the club and fea-

tured seven brilliant movies with super performances from over 60 people from across the community.

Over 750 attended the first Clontarf OsKaRs.

Ciaran Cyne, Michael Cunningham, Sean Kelly, Daniel O’Sullivan and Stephen Evans

Lucy, Abby, Orla, Maeve and Ellen

Kevin and Mary Hoy

Barbara and John Corr, Ruth Kyne and Sophie Farrelly

11 April 2019 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 7

SOCIETY: MORE THAN 7,000 PEOPLE EXPECTED TO TAKE PART IN 2019’S LGBT+ PARADE

A sense of great pride as parade returns to O’Connell St RACHEL D’ARCY

DUBLIN PRIDE have announced that the 2019 Pride Parade will return to O’Connell Street this year.

In an announcement last week, the proposed route for this year’s March and Parade was announced, seeing those taking part congregating at the Garden of Rememberance before proceeding down O’Connell Street, turning down onto Eden Quay and then crossing the Liffey at Talbot Memorial Bridge.

The Pride Parade will then continue

FASTNews Autism parent group set up in Dublin 8 A GROUP has been established in Dublin 8 to help provide support to parents of children with Autism.

The D8 & Bluebell Parents Association for Autism Inclusion started last week, and aim to provide support to parents and guardians in the area of autistic children.

Particularly, the group are eager to support parents of autistic children finding it difficult to secure correct placements for their children in the D8 and Bluebell areas, and are working to highlight the need for more ASD units in the locality.

The group run support coffee mornings in Bluebell each Thursday, with more information available from dublin8autisminclusion@ gmail.com.

Applications open for new creative idea THE MINISTER for Education and Skills Joe McHugh T.D. has opened applications for Creative Clusters, an initiative taking place as part of Creative Ireland.

Each school will have access to a specialist facilitator, artist or creative expertise in whatever their own chosen area of interest is.

In addition, clusters will receive up to €7,500 funding to help bring their plans and ideas to fruition.

Applications for the scheme are available from the Department’s website, at https://bit.ly/2Gav5gX.

onward along City Quay and Lombard Street, heading down Westland Row before finishing up with a free outdoor event in Merrion Square.

Last year, there was a rerouting of the Pride Route which saw the parade begin at Stephen’s Green, before continuing along Cuffe Street, Kevin Street, Church Street and North King Street before culminating at Smithfield Square.

The 2018 parade was the biggest event, to date, with more than 60,000 people in attendance – a 100% increase on the 2017 parade, which saw 30,000 people take part in the

Pride festivities.

This year’s Pride Parade will take place on Saturday, June 29, and more than 7,000 people from over 100 groups will participate in the parade in an array of colourful costumes and floats.

It was also announced last week that Dublin Pride has entered a bid to become the host of Europe’ biggest LGBT event, EuroPride, in 2022. Dublin Pride is one of five Pride organisations entering a bid to host the 30th anniversary event of EuroPride, which would also fall on the 50th anniversary of the first Pride event in Europe.

The proposed route for the 2019 Pride Parade

Hoping to find Joan after an unforgettable time in 1977 PADRAIG CONLON

AN ENGLISHMAN who last set foot in Dublin 42 years ago is looking for Dublin Gazette readers’ help.

Now living in Kent, Mike Billington contacted us with a special request.

“I’ve contacted you because I’m hoping you can help me,” he cryptically said in a phone call to our office this week.

“The last time I was in Dublin was Saturday, April 2, 1977. I was in my late 20s and working as a pilot; we flew into Dublin from Biggin Hill.

“That night we went to a nightclub in the city centre. It was called Slack Alices; it was located opposite the Ha’penny Bridge – I think it’s long gone.

“While there I had one of those ‘eyes across the room’ moments with this really nice girl.

“Her name was Joan – she was a schoolteacher, and she just looked so serene and calm, there was a serenity about her.”

Mike did more than shyly staring back at the pretty lady: “We started dancing and immediately clicked. We had a wonderful night and arranged to meet the next day.

“I was staying at the airport so I walked all the way back there from O’Connell St that night.

“The next day I returned

to meet Joan in the afternoon; we went to the cinema. We had a lovely time together, we felt very close to each other.”

However, with the difficulties of the time, things weren’t completely perfect: “She was a Catholic and I wasn’t, so maybe she thought this might be a problem.

“After that she got on a bus outside the cinema.

She immediately went to the back of the bus, so I walked around to the back of the bus on the street.

“This moment is indelibly printed in my memory and has haunted me for the past 42 years.

“As the bus moved away she burst into tears. I felt just as upset, knowing we would never see each other again.

“After that, I flew back to England, never returned to Dublin, and never saw Joan again.”

Mike, who went on to get married, have two children and become a grandfather, contacted us because he would love to make contact with Joan.

He explained: “I just want to know that life treated her good and she’s okay. I am not looking to rekindle an old flame or anything like that; my wife knows all about this.

“If Joan is married, her husband need not be worried – I’m 75, short, bald, fat and no threat to anybody!

Mike Billington (inset, and his 1970s self, above) is just hoping to finally know what happened to Joan, a teacher who he met here in 1977

“I have been thinking about her often down the years; this is more of a harmless thing.”

In fact, Mike revealed a personal moment which made him decide to see if he could have some peace

of mind about Joan: “I recently had my second bout of cancer and that made me realise I have more life behind me than in front of me.

“If Joan was interested, I’d love to meet up. I would

bring my wife and if she was married her husband would be more than welcome.

“I’m planning on visiting Dublin in June. I’m hoping some of your readers may be able to help me.”

So, if you happen to be Joan, were once a schoolteacher and had a wonderful time in April, 1977 with a charming visitor called Mike, get in touch with Dublin Gazette today, to let Mike know!

8 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 11 April 2019

PLANNING: RETAIL GIANT REFUTES STATEMENT ON PHIBSBORO SHOPPING CENTRE

Tesco hits back at claim it’s ‘blocking’ a redevelopment RACHEL D’ARCY

POPULAR supermarket giant Tesco has refuted claims that it is the cause of a stalemate over Phibsboro Shopping Centre’s redevelopment, after a statement made by developers this week.

The developer of Phibsboro Shopping Centre, Mm Capital, have said that “demands” from Tesco may result in the indefinite shelving of the project.

Derek Poppinga, managing director of Mm Capital, said: “The cost of these demands would render the redevelopment of the centre financially unviable.

“As it stands, the shopping centre is asbestosridden and dilapidated.

The reality is that if the centre is not redeveloped now, it will likely fall into further disrepair and that cannot be good for any-

one, including Tesco.”

It is believed that Dublin City Council and Bohemians Football club, which is involved in the redevelopment of the adjoining Dalymount Park, are concerned about the impasse.

Bohemians have said that their members are aware of the current standoff and have hopes that it will not impact on the long-awaited redevelopment of Dalymount.

In a statement, the club said: “Bohemian FC was fully aware of this potential impasse and it was communicated to club members and discussed at our recent AGM. “If this impasse persists, it would not prevent the redevelopment of Dalymount Park.

“It would, however, obviously necessitate a change to the conceptual design presented thus far. But as the final

At stake is the redevelopment of Phibsboro Shopping Centre. Picture: Google Maps

design team are yet to be appointed, this would be factored into the council’s plans.”

However, in a statement to Dublin Gazette, Tesco refuted claims that it had made “fresh demands”, and that the developer is “undermining” their ability to trade as a result of new plans.

A spokesperson for Tesco said: “Tesco has

made no fresh demands, as claimed. We have been consistent across all our dealings with Mm Capital over several years and right up to today.

“Our position, on record throughout the very extended planning process, is that we are seeking to maintain deliveries for our store.

“Currently the store receives deliveries to the

front. This right to deliver to the front of the store is contained in our deed of conveyance and we have been making deliveries in this manner for more than 20 years, since the store was operated as a Quinnsworth.

“While we welcome development for Phibsborough, the developer here is seeking to undermine our ability to trade.

“The developer has recently escalated this matter, stating that they will commence extending the boundary wall at the front of the store on April 28, preventing our trucks from gaining access and making deliveries to our store impossible.

“Tesco has agreed to a further meeting with the developer in an effort to resolve the matter.”

Man pleads guilty to burglary charges

Ireland Womens 7’s visit children at CHI in Crumlin THE IRELAND Women’s 7s team made a very special visit to the children in Children’s Health Ireland (CHI) at Crumlin which was organised by CMRF Crumlin and Rugby Players Ireland.

Pictured with 14-yearold Aaron Redmond from Kildare are Ireland Women’s 7 players, from left, Audrey O’Flynn, Deirbhile Nic a Bhaird, Ashleigh Baxter, Kathy Baker and Amee Leigh

Murphy Crowe.

CMRF Crumlin is urging people to help some of Ireland’s sickest children by donating whatever they can at cmrf.org.

Picture: Mark Stedman

A MAN WHO burgled four student apartments while their occupants were asleep said he did not care about getting caught, a court has heard.

Simon Whelan (32) with an address at Meridan Court, Ashtown, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to trespass and theft of four apartments in Gateway Student village, Ballymun, on October 4, 2018.

He also pleaded guilty to burglaries at Salamanca Restaurant, Andrew Street, on July 23, 2017; at Lush, Grafton Street, on August 16, 2018; at 777 Restaurant, South Great George’s Street, on August 20, 2018; and at Nisbits Catering Equipment, ILAC Centre, on September 7, 2018.

Garda Sergeant Colm McGallagher told the court that in the early hours of the morning on October 4, 2018, Whelan broke into four apartments in the student accommodation complex and stole valuable items while the occupants were sleeping.

Sgt McGallagher said a garda saw the accused struggling to carry a heavy bag on

the street and stopped him. Whelan threw the bag at the garda and tried to run away, but was caught and arrested.

Inside the bag were various valuable items including laptops, speakers, watches, wallets and cash. All items save for a small amount of cash were recovered and returned to the victims.

In interview with gardai Whelan said “I don’t care about getting caught, it’s about the hit”.

Gda Sgt McGallagher agreed with Simon Matthews BL, defending, that his client had been taking drugs since his release from custody and that no violence was used during the incident.

Mr Matthews said Whelan had spent a lot of time in custody since 2007 and that he developed an addiction to crack cocaine and heroin while imprisoned. He lives with his partner and three children.

Judge Melanie Greally ordered a probation report and that Whelan undergo urine analysis. She remanded him in custody and adjourned the matter for sentencing on May 30, next.

FASTNews Liberty Hall to host new book launch LIBERTY HALL will play host to the launch of an exciting new book this Thursday.

The second volume of Left Lives in Twentieth Century Ireland, edited

by Dr Kieran Jack McGinley and Frances Devine, examines fourteen lives lived on and for the Left.

The launch of the book will take place on April 11 in the Connolly Toom, Cois Life Bar, and ensures to be an informative evening.

DCC unveil new co-cup programme

DUBLIN CITY COUNCIL have teamed up with with Dublin City University, Trinity College Dublin and 2GoCup to launch the pilot Co-Cup Deposit and Return Scheme.

The pilot project, funded by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and run by 2GoCup, will be rolled out in a number of locations including campuses at DCU, Trinity, and in Dublin City Council’s Civic Offices.

Under the scheme, when someone purchases a hot drink, there is an additional charge of €1 – a deposit for the cup.

When they return their cup, they get their €1 back. A lid can also be purchased for €1, which can be kept and re-used.

Fionnghuala Ryan, Executive Environmental Scientific Officer at DCC said: “DCC is delighted to be involved in this exciting pilot project. With funding from the EPA’s Local Authority Prevention Network, Co-Cup hopes to be the beginning of the deposit and return revolution in Ireland.”

11 April 2019 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 9

POLITICS: LABOUR CANDIDATE’S UNSANCTIONED USE OF OUR IDENTITY WAS NEWS TO US, TOO

Outrage as Dublin Gazette dragged into election row “

Dublin Gazette would like to assure our readers that we do not – and will never – align our explicit support with any specific political candidate or party

A LOCAL election candidate has come under fire by locals for her election fliers, which feature an unsanctioned mock-up of a Dublin Gazette front page.

Labour candidate Juliet O’Connell issued two styles of flyers in the general Dun Laoghaire region with an edited version of a Dublin Gazette The candidate also tion and contact details for front page, which have shared pictures of the fli- the candidate, who is runnot been approved by this ers on her social media ning in the local elections newspaper, and feature accounts, both on leaflet on May 24 for the Labour the unauthorised use of drops and in coffee shops, Party. our masthead. with our masthead clearly It is believed that these One leaflet featured displayed in these images. fliers have been distriba near direct uted to several copy of the homes, shops cover of our and other busiFebruary 7- 13 nesses in the issue, whilst local electoral the other flier area and furutilised our ther afield, masthead and with readers other design from Shankill, elements Glenageary, exclusive to A second flyer misusing our masthead and branding Killiney and t h i s p a p e r, more lodging alongside a “Vote No. 1” Both versions of the flier complaints with Dublin banner for the candidate. featured a story previously Gazette.

This banner, located written for the South ediOur group has received directly below the locally tion of Dublin Gazette. several complaints from well-recognised Dublin The story was based on locals in the Shankill/ Gazette masthead, has the depleting main street Killiney electoral area caused immense confu- of Dun Laoghaire, which regarding these fliers, as sion in several South Dub- featured comment from loyal readers of our South lin areas as a result, with candidate O’Connell, who edition believed that the locals believing this paper owns a business in this paper had given consent endorsed the candidate locale. for our masthead and due to the use of our mastOn the rear of the flier design to be used by the head. is promotional informa- Labour candidate.

Labour candidate Juliet O’Connell’s main flyer, misappropriating Dublin Gazette’s masthead and branding (right)

Many callers aired their frustration that Dublin Gazette would allow our South edition, or any edition, to be aligned to an electoral candidate, when we pride ourselves on being an unbiased source of local news, and are not affiliated with any political party.

Other local election candidates from different parties also made contact to

air their frustrations.

Dublin Gazette would like to assure our readers that we do not – and will never – align our explicit support with any specific political candidate or party ahead of this May’s elections, and that Dublin Gazette are in no way associated with this literature.

When contacted by Dublin Gazette, Juliet O’Connell said: “I am sorry

Opening of new domestic violence clinic in Ballymun welcomed by locals RACHEL D’ARCY

A NEW domestic violence clinic, run by Aoibhneas, is set to open in Ballymun by referral.

The new outreach service aims to provide practical support to women who have, or are, experiencing physical, emotional, sexual and/or financial abuse.

It will provide advice and assistance, in addition to information and referrals to appropriate services, as well as a court accompaniement and preparation service.

Local independent councillor Noeleen Reilly welcomed the introduction of the new clinic.

Cllr Reilly said: “Unfortunate-

ly domestic violence is an issue in our community like every other and often the victims are left feeling very isolated.

“It is not often clear what supports are available and this often stops people coming forward looking for help.

“This is very welcome in our community and I’ve no doubt

will be a great support to many victims.”

The Aoibhneas Clinics will operate on a referral basis only and those referrals can be made to the Outreach Service by contacting 086 047 0331 or 086 415 1284. A referral form can also be downloaded from the site at www.aoibhneas.ie.

I misunderstood the permission to use the article.

“I want to apologise to [Dublin Gazette], your staff and your readers for using it as I did.

“I have halted distribution of the article. It was not my intent to cause any damage to the paper.

“I am sorry.”

In response to a query for comment, a Labour Party spokesperson told

Dublin Gazette that “[the party] does not centrally oversee the content of leaflets distributed in the run up to local elections,” and that they have requested O’Connell halt distribution of the fliers.

Following complaint, O’Connell has agreed to withdraw the leaflets from circulation, and to destroy any flyers that have not yet been distributed.

MOTORING, PAGE 22

Find premium French flair with this DS7 Crossback



RACHEL D’ARCY

Flyer front

Flyer back

10 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 11 April 2019

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Preston Magennis and Masie Freeman

Tara and Luke Freeman

Alicia Culhane and Aoife Hoffler Caoimhe Heneghan, Muireann Ni Dhallaigh, Meibh Ni Dhallaigh and Julia Finnegan. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

A wonder-full event at the Lighthouse Cinema P Amber Glover and Moss Pinder

Marty and Eleanor Miller

Gillian Fitzpatrick with children Felix Ward and Giulia Ward

ARENTS and children alike made their way to Dublin’s Lighthouse Cinema in Smithfield last week to get a sneak preview of the new animated children’s film Wonder Park.

Guests arrived to a specially themed Wonder Park Reception with lots of kiddies attractions on the day. Wonder Park tells the story of a magnificent amusement park where the imagination of a wildly creative girl named June comes alive.

Eamonn Phelan, Isabelle Phelan and Lucy Phelan

Jessica Wall, Laura Wall, Theresa Wall and Jacob Wall

11 April 2019 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 11

GALLERIES OF THE WEEK

Nikki Whelan and daughter Pippa

Dylan Ellis and Anna Ellis

Aoife, Eoin and Ella Dunne. Pictures: Brian McEvoy

Ireland’s Got Talent semi-final at the Helix Vida Valaitiene and Kinga Gawronska

Mary Feighery, Elaine Gillen and Kellie Walton

T

HE excitement in the air was palpable at the second Virgin Media Ireland’s Got Talent semifinal at the Helix last week. Before the heart stopping action began, guests gathered in the Domino’s Golden Buzzer lounge for a drinks reception and plenty of delicious pizza.

Ian Curran and Mikie O’ Loughlin

Kim Vavasour and Anne Barry

Isabella Hanlon and Polly O Brien Hogan

Sarah Bagnall, Milly Kelly, Sinead Kelly and Jessica Kelly.

Nicola Tate, Cleo Knight and Megan Corcoran

Jane O’Farrell, Darcy Hartnett and Juliette Dunne

Ruth Cumiskey, Millie Cumiskey and Christine Norberg

12 DUBLIN GAZETTE 11 April 2019

FAMILIES: UPCOMING IMAGINATIVE EVENT FOR CHILDREN PLACE AT DRAIOCHT IN BLANCHARDSTOWN, CELEBRATING FRIENDSHIP AND PLAY

TA! for the fun kids’ event PADRAIG CONLON

and the public space.

“I use the body, visual imagery and props to create thought-provoking and visually stimulating dance experiences.

AN EXCITING event celebrating the creative arts for very young children is coming to Blanchardstown.

A-do-le-TA! is a dance theatre piece exploring This is Draiocht’s friendship and play for fifth Toddler Takeover children aged between event celebrating the three to six. limitless imagination of young Created by Selma children and the magic that Daniel, a Brazilian happens when it is combined choreographer based in with the world of artists Ireland with more than and the arts 20 years’ experience in dance, this is her first full dance production for chil“A-do-le-TA! is based dren as part of Draiocht’s on the importance of play, Toddler Takeover Festival especially free play durnext month. ing early childhood.”

She told Dublin A highly imaginative Gazette: “I am interested and slightly abstract in investigating dance piece, A-do-le-TA! shows for young audiences, to a day in the life of two create socially engaging friends called Joy and Sky. dance for screen, stage Join them in a world

where anything is possible – a tent can be a crab, an umbrella can be a cloud, and the moon can sing.

Through play, the two friends overcome differences and together imagine, create and expand their reality and the audience’s.

So what does A-dole-TA! mean? Adoleta, from the French word Andouilette, and also called adoleta or adoteca (in Portugese, UmDo-Li-Ta) is a Brazilian children’s hand-clapping game where participants in a circle clap hands with each other and sing the song Adoleta.

Originally a French children’s song, it was brought to Brazil by French immigrats and adapted over time as children had dif-

Celebrate the magic of play and imagination at the upcoming event at Draiocht

ficulty pronouncing the French lyrics.

Adoleta is still a popular children’s game in Brazil to this day.

This is Draiocht’s fifth Toddler Takeover event celebrating the limitless imagination of young

children and the magic that happens when it is combined with the world of artists and the arts.

With a combination of book-in and free drop-in events, children are invited to bring their insatiable curiosity and their adults

to explore, discover new art forms, create, play, do a dance, draw, explore, and nurture creative potential, while having fun too.

Funded by the Arts Council’s Dance Project Award and supported by Dance Ireland, Draiocht

and Riverbank Arts Centre, The Toddler Takeover takes place on Wednesday, May 29 and Thursday, May 30 at Draiocht.

Booking opens this coming Tuesday, April 16, at 10am, telephone 01 885 2622.

MAGAZINE

11 April 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13

LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS TAKE YOU ON A TOUR OF THE NEWS AND EVENTS ACROSS THE CITY AND COUNTY

CELEBRATING 20 MILLION VISITORS WITH AN AMAZING AFTER-DARK EVENT

PICTURED are DJ Kormac and members of the Irish Chamber Orchestra (violinist Louis Roden and cellist Gabriele Dikciute) at the launch of the ‘Guinness Storehouse After Dark’.

This April, the Guinness Storehouse is bringing together some of Ireland’s most exciting live music acts to deliver a one-off performance to mark a momentous milestone of welcoming 20 Million visitors.

Taking place on Saturday, 27 April 2019, ‘Guinness Storehouse After Dark’ will see the seven-storey treasure trove come alive with an eclectic programme of live music, great beer, delicious food and bold entertainment.

Picture: JULIEN BEHAL PHOTOGRAPHY.

14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 11 April 2019

CAMPAIGN

THE SECOND IN OUR SERIES ON CYCLING SAFETY

No helmet, no chance if you come a cropper on your bike NIALL SWEENEY

WITH an increasing amount of cyclists using the busy streets of Dublin, safety has become a major issue, with frequent reports of cyclists suffering catastrophic, life-changing injuries, or even death..

It is a legal requirement to use the lights on your bike at night-time and to be seen, but the use of lifesaving helmets has still not been legislated for.

Following last week’s powerful opinion piece

by Neil Fox, whose sister Donna was tragically killed by a motorist while cycling in the city, Dublin Gazette asked Dubliners, politic ians, frontline health and road safety personnel to gauge the depth of opinion regarding whether or not the use of cycle helmets should be made compulsory.

The issue of helmet use for cycling is a divisive one in society.

The public, authorities and governmental figures don’t seem to agree on a single solution.

The Association of Garda Sergeants and Inspectors (AGSI) have

advocated for mandatory helmet laws in a bid to curb deaths on the roads.

Joanne Sweeney, of the AGSI stated that, from their perspective, “public safety is paramount and the wearing of helmets is encouraged”.

However, this was opposed by cyclists, who felt this law would distract from the issue of driver behaviour and poor enforcement of road traffic laws.

Cyclist.ie’s Michael McKillen insists helmets should be a “personal choice” and that helmets do not offer adequate protection against the type of road traffic collisions encountered by cyclists.

Though not in favour of making them compulsory, Minister for Employment Affairs and Soc ial Protection Regina Doherty said she would demand her children wear them on public roads.

In a statement to Dublin Gazette, a spokesperson from the Department of Transport outlined t h a t t h e re we re n o immediate plans for the implementation of helmet laws, and an alternative

Whether you’re one cyclist – or one of many – always wear your cycling helmet, which could just save your life one day, or prevent dire injury

approach was needed, but nonetheless promoted use of the helmet.

They said: “It is longstanding government policy to recommend and promote the wearing of helmets by cyclists.

“The Rules of the Road booklet encourages the use of cycle helmets and draws attention to their safety benefits, and the Road Safety Authority,

the agency responsible for public education and awareness, strongly encourages their use.

“Opinion is divided internationally on whether the wearing of safety helmets is best achieved through the introduction of statutory requirements or through other strategies.

“The matter was considered in the context

of the preparation of the Road Safety Strategy 2013-2020.

“Although the strategy strongly favours encouraging the use of helmets, it stopped short of recommending making their wearing compulsory.

“The Department is of the view that the wearing of cycle helmets is better achieved by way of

educational and publicity campaigns rather than by pursuing a punitive approach to the issue, particularly having regard to the large numbers of children and young people who cycle.

“Consequently, there are no plans to make the wearing of bicycle safety helmets a legal requirement at this time,” they said.

NEXT WEEK

IN THE concluding part of our three-part special focus on cycling safely, we look at how laws differ in other countries – and attitudes towards cycling and cyclists, too.

We also touch upon the injuries and harm that can befall cyclists who aren’t wearing a helmet.

Vox Pops: Should the law force cyclists to wear helmets?

DUBLIN GAZETTE asked people at venues across the city if cyclists should have to wear helmets by law?

Here are some of their answers...

“Yes, the roads are getting a lot more violent; the deaths caused on them are pretty serious.”

“I think so, especially if they are going outside cyclist routes.”

“Yes, it should be done. I cycle myself and I often don’t wear a helmet, and it’s not until afterwards that I really think about the risks.”

“Yes, definitely. It’s so easy to get a

brain injury if you hit the ground.

I feel strongly about it for young people especially.”

“No, not really. It’s a risk they’re willing to take. I walk up and down along by the road and I’m taking my own life in my hands. Maybe I should wear a helmet!”

“Yes. Just from a safety point of view, as the roads are so busy.”

“Yes. It’s most necessary and pretty obvious. Dublin city is a very dangerous place to cycle in.

Everyone has the responsibility for their own safety and a helmet is

part of that.”

“Yes. It’s safer for cyclists, and for drivers if there was ever an accident.

“There are some studies I’m aware of that show they’re not the safest thing, but [wearing a helmet does] bring some safety. There’s no reason not to, other than style reasons.”

“I would highly suggest someone on a bike wears a helmet. You come off a bike and bang your head – you have no protection at all without one.

“But no, I don’t support helmet laws, as people should be given a choice.

“I think they should be mandatory

for children, anyone under 16, but adults should have the freedom to choose.”

get me to wear one, finally!

“I struggle to find one that fits, but they’re definitely a good thing.”

“Yes, I think so, especially in Dublin.

Traffic is very chaotic. It’s safer for cyclists. I see a lot of bicycle accidents happening. It’s always a problem.”

“Yes, for their own protection helmets should be compulsory. And it’s peace of mind for the drivers that they [cyclists] won’t get injured.

“I strongly believe they should have to wear a helmet. It’s dangerous on the roads – people are opening car doors [in front of cyclists] and everything; it’s crazy.

“There’s a big ad on tv now about drivers giving room to cyclists etc – but it’s not that cyclists do the right thing all the time. They take chances and it goes both ways.”

“I would support such a law for cyclists. I cycle and don’t wear one, but absolutely can understand why they’d be a necessity.

“Judging by what I know about head impact injuries and how helmets can prevent them, it’s a no-brainer. I think [such a law] would

11 April 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15

TRAVEL

How the Westeros was won

GAME OF THRONES: STUDIO TOUR COMING TO BANBRIDGE

SYLVIA POWNALL

Travel Editor HBO has teamed up with Linen Mill Studios in Banbridge to open the full Game of Thrones studio tour in Northern Ireland after the series ends.

With the final featurelength episodes of the epic drama due to start airing next week, Northern Ireland is preparing to reap the tourism rewards from the hit show.

The experience promises to “open up Westeros to everyone” and is expected to attract millions of tourists from Spring 2020 when it opens its doors.

The GoT interactive exhibition will showcase authentic sets, costumes, weapons and props as well as other behind-thescenes items from the hit Sky Atlantic series.

Linen Mills Studios was the original filming location used for countless iconic scenes throughout the run of the fantasy drama.

The tour will bring visitors face-to-face with original fully dressed sets and interactive elements used to create the worlds of Westeros and Essos.

Promotors promise that the 110,000sq ft tour “will drop fans in the very heart of the Seven Kingdoms” allowing visitors to relive key scenes and “stand right where they took place”.

Sets will include King’s

Drop over to cheerful Stannis Baratheon’s keep

Check out fine furnishings fit for a mother of dragons

Examine Castle Black’s fine dining arrangements* and seating (*murderous rebellions not included)

Landing, Winterfell, Dragonstone and The Wall (and beyond), as well as kingdoms across the Narrow Sea such as Mereen and Braavos.

Jeff Peters, vice president of licensing and retail at HBO, said: “Some of the most iconic scenes from Game of

Thrones were filmed at Linen Mill Studios and our fans will soon have an opportunity to visit and see the work of the show’s incredible crew in the museum setting it deserves.”

Northern Ireland has been a key filming location for Game of Thrones

for a decade, using more than 20 locations including the Dark Hedges at Ballymoney (The Kingsroad) and Castle Ward estate on Strangford Lough (Winterfell).

Andrew Webb, managing director of Linen Mill Studios, said: “We are committed to giving fans the opportunity to experience first-hand the most comprehensive selection of iconic elements from the show available anywhere in the world.”

To u r i s t c h i e fs a re already cashing in with themed GoT bus tours, m e d i ev a l b a n q u e t s, archery experiences and even afternoon tea with a large dollop of Dothraki trifle served up at Ballygally Castle.

R i c h a rd Wi l l i a m s, chief executive of Northern Ireland Screen, said: “Almost from the start, fans of the show from near and far have sought out and enjoyed visiting the locations featured in the show.

“It is brilliant that this visitor experience is being built and developed on top of the film studio where many of the most iconic Game of Thrones scenes were filmed.”

L a s t y e a r, H B O Licensing & Retail also announced plans to convert key Northern Ireland filming locations into “legacy” tourist experiences “on a scale and scope bigger than anything the public has ever seen”.

You too can plot the downfall of your enemies with a trip to the Lannisters’ map room – at least, from Spring 2020, once the sets and the attraction have been opened

16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 11 April 2019

DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS I N F O R M AT I O N Heritage House, Dundrum, Dublin 14 Tel: 01 - 6010240

SOME OF THE RANDOM AND

Garfield phones beach mystery finally solved

Dublin Gazette Newspapers publishes four weekly quality free titles, covering the latest news, sport, entertainment and lifestyle from the four local authority areas of Dublin

C O N TA C T S Managing Director: Michael McGovern mmcgovern@dublingazette.com Group Editor: Patrick Finnegan pfinnegan@dublingazette.com Deputy Group Editor: Shane Dillon sdillon@dublingazette.com Sports Editor: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@dublingazette.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile jmaile@dublingazette.com

AFTER 30 years of searching and wondering, the people of Normandy, France, have finally found out why plastic pieces of a very famous yellow cat kept washing up on their shores.

While Earth’s polluted oceans have brought forth rubbish and debris for ages, these French beaches have been hit by one bizarre, recurring item: Garfield telephones.

Over 200 plastic fragments of the infamous cat washed ashore in 2018 alone and since the 1980s, local residents have pondered what was causing the phenomenon.

Recently, the 57-year-old farmer Rene Morvan disclosed to a local environmental group where the phones

were coming from.

Apparently, when Morvan was 20 years of age when a storm ravaged the area and the merchandise began to wash ashore soon after.

Getting curious, he and his brother went exploring. They found the wreckage of a shipping container wedged into the cliffs of a nearby sea cave.

The local environmental group went looking for the container and sure enough, when the tide was low, it revealed itself.

In it was hundreds of yellow, plastic phones all branded with that smug cat’s face – the face that was taunting the people and beaches of Normandy for 30 years.

Picture Editor: Aisling Conway aconway@dublingazette.com

DUBLIN Gazette Newspapers has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs.

Jack and Jessie are two incredibly adorable dogs who can’t imagine life without each other!

They came into Dogs Trust together as best friends and are completely inseparable.

Jack is a super-friendly nine-year-old old Collie cross that loves everything and everyone.

His favourite things in life are walks, yummy treats, belly rubs and attention.

Jessie is a stunning nine-year-old Labrador cross who, like Jack, is a happy and positive dog that loves to be spoiled.

She can be a little unsure of other dogs, so she will need some training to improve her doggie social skills.

They are hoping for a family who can adopt them both and give them plenty of love. They would love a family with children over the age of 10, in a nice quiet area.

If you have room in your heart and home for Jack and Jessie 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. (Remember: Always have your dog on a lead when in public.)

Travel Editor: Sylvia Pownall spownall@dublingazette.com Advertising Sales:

01 - 6010240 sales@dublingazette.com

FIND US ON

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

How’s this f

jessie & jack

DOG OF THE WEEK DOGS

11 April 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17

D QUIRKY THINGS THAT CAUGHT OUR EYE THIS WEEK...

BITS & BOBS TOP TWEETS

for a baby boom?

NINE nurses working on the same maternity ward at Maine Medical Centre are all heavily pregnant and due to give birth at around the same time.

The odds-defying baby boom provoked plenty of excitement upon its official reveal by the hospital, which said each of the women were expecting to welcome a new child over the next few months.

Posting on social media, the Portland hospital said: “How’s this for a baby boom?

Nine of our nurses (eight of whom are in this photo) are expecting babies between April and July! Congratulations!”

Thousands of well-wishers have liked, shared or commented on the picture, which shows the nurses holding up signs displaying their respective due dates.

“Don’t worry! We have a plan!” added the hospital, reassuring those who feared that the hospital may face a staffing shortage over the coming months.

Out-of-this-world burger discovered A GROUNDSMAN at Colchester United’s training ground had an out-of-this world experience when he discovered a galactic burger had landed on the playing pitch of the League Two side.

The now-frozen meaty snack was attached to a polystyrene box with a GoPro and sent up to space by Tom Stanniland, better known by his YouTube name Kill’em, who called the club to explain.

Stanniland claimed he would eat the burger once it had safely returned to solid ground - wherever that may be. He was able to determine its location thanks to a tracker he had installed in the box.

After contacting the club to confirm its whereabouts, Mr Stanniland travelled down from his home in Sheffield to retrieve it. However, the effects of the journey into space had taken its toll on the meal and he said, “that’s not nice.”

Rent due. Lights due. Car note due.

Insurance due. Mountain dew. Baby shark do do do do do do. Every damn thing due. @CWILK1989

Bruce Wayne: How would you like to come take a ride in my batmobile Date: ...

Bruce: I mean...Brucemobile Date: uhh Bruce: my regular normal carmobile @_elvishpresley_

I will never understand why the smell of girls’ perfume lasts 8 secs meanwhile boys can go through an apocalypse and still smell like cologne @notpanashe

Gmail debuted 15 years ago today!

My favorite Gmail memory, by far, is entering my login and password.

What’s your Gmail login and password? @rynprry

18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 11 April 2019

GOINGOUTOUT

PICK WEEK OF THE

APRIL 13 & 14 (SATURDAY + SUNDAY) Shawn Mendes @ 3Arena, €80+ SHAWN Mendes first gained recognition on YouTube and Vine through his affiliation with the popular Vine group Magcon Boys alongside Nash Grier, Cameron Dallas and others.

He released his first single “Life of the Party” in June 2014. His self-titled debut EP reached number one on the iTunes charts in under 40 minutes upon being released in July 2014.

APRIL 11 (THURSDAY)

Peco @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €11 Inni-K @ Whelan’s, €15

APRIL 12 (FRIDAY)

DJ Kormac @ Lost Lane, €20 A launch party for Dublin’s newest venue features the lively DJ and his boisterous live show.

A real scenester must-attend.

Interference @ Whelan’s, €22 Comethazine @ The Academy, €25

APRIL 13 (SATURDAY)

Flash Harry (Queen tribute) @ Vicar Street, €31 Yak @ Whelan’s, €15 Badhands @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €13 Georgia Anne Muldrow @ The Sugar Club, €18 Bexey @ The Academy 2, €16

New venue to focus on Irish live scene THESE DAYS, the development of a new live music venue in Dublin seems to be an increasingly rare thing.

With the likes of Tivoli Theatre, Hangar, Twisted Pepper, the Wright Venue and Sweeney’s all departing the city’s musical map in recent years, those spots still standing at the heart of the Irish music scene feel too little, and are often full to bursting.

The announcement of the opening of Lost Lane, on the sight of the old Lillie’s Bordello on Adam’s Court, just off Grafton Street is a great boost, then, and one going very much against the grain.

Lost Lane will be part of the Porterhouse pub chain, but a step away from their traditional lively but very much beerfocused offering of their

Screaming Orphans @ Whelan’s, €11 Sassperella @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €5

APRIL 15 (MONDAY)

Billy Lockett @ Whelan’s, €16

APRIL 16 (TUESDAY)

APRIL 17 (WEDNESDAY)

Dropkick Murphys @ Vicar Street, €40 Milo @ The Sugar Club, €15 Ramriddlz @ The Academy 2, €19

small-chain pubs.

“A lot of venues have been closing recently but I think they would tend to fit more in the term of night club,” Elliot Hughes, Porterhouse partner told Dublin Gazette.

“What we are doing with Lost Lane is embracing a growing culture of live music. This scene in Ireland has been booming over recent years with more and more talented artists looking for places to play around the capital, while I don’t think the infrastructure has followed suit.

Of course though, everything is at risk. Opening a new venue will always

regardless if the act is local or international, the common denominator will be the the quality of performers people can expect to experience at Lost Lane.

“For us it’s all about giving people the best experience that a live music venue and late night bar can offer. That applies to both the experiential - sound, lighting, atmosphere and setting - and the drinks offering to make sure they enjoy the artist they’ve come to see to the max.

“We’ll have the best of Irish and international craft beer on tap and can as well as a focus on our premium spirits offering, led by Dingle Gin & Dingle Vodka.

“We don’t want to offer the same bland beer that everyone else offers. Lost Lane aims to start with a

THIS week in Carrigstown, Orla and Wayne’s travails continue, Tommy and Dearbhla get a shock when a surprise visitor arrives, Hughie has a surprise for Jackie and Damien and Mairead return from Munich in great form and much more...

APRIL 14 (SUNDAY)

Dropkick Murphys @ Vicar Street, €40 Boston Celtic-punk act start a three-night run at Vicar Street, where their pogoing is sure to evoke a passionate reaction amongst their dedicated fanbase.

 JAMES HENDICOTT

give a sense of nervousness. It is impossible to guarantee success however we have a wonderful location, a top class sound system and a fantastic look to the venue.

“We’ve moved the main bar as well as a couple of other major changes, while the main difference will be the aesthetic,” Hughes explains.

“The stage area in particular is quite minimalist as we want the focus to be on what is important, the artist and the sound.”

With that in mind, Lost Lane will be welcoming a lot of emerging Irish artists, though the booking policy remains a relatively straightforward one.

“The act must be quality,” Hughes says.

“We’re passionate about supporting and showcasing local talent, but

The Dillons get a shock with a surprise visitor in Carrigstown

Jackie bonds with Ellie much to the annoyance of Renee. Jackie is spooked when Deegan tells them the burglar has been caught at the scene of another crime.

Hughie has a surprise in store for her.

Sash sees Orla’s fear when Wayne tells her the hospital isn’t happy with Junior’s latest blood tests, and is keen to keep her distance.

Sharon encourages Erica to have faith in Darragh. Meanwhile Damien and Mairead

Dearbhla’s delighted to welcome a surprise visitor to town

return from Munich on a high. Doug is irked when Sean arrives at the garage to help out.

Wayne suggests they try Sash one more time, but Orla insists they focus on the sur-

bang and give consumers something different.”

Things seems to be going well in terms of the initial offering, which features lots of themed nights, and a number of solid Irish bookings.

“I see Lost Lane fast becoming a part of the vibrant music scene in Dublin; a go to for new and more established artists wanting to play intimate gigs in Ireland,” he concludes.

Lost Lane will hold its opening night on April 12, featuring DJ Kormac.

David Kitt, Delorentos, Interskalactic, Saint Sister, Wyvern Lingo and Le Galaxie have already confirmed dates at the new venue. Learn more at www.lostlane.ie See the full-length article on our website at www.dublingazette.com

rogacy in the U.S. Sharon is planning on a big family do at Easter, while Tommy and Dearbhla get a shock when a surprise visitor arrives.

Doug is annoyed that Sean is still at the garage and accuses Ray of being a hypocrite and Ray is surprised when Doug makes an effort with Sean.

Orla and Wayne continue treading softly with Sash, hoping the softly-softly approach will work. Zak has no problem getting the ladies but his philandering past comes back to haunt him. Doug is irked when Sean gives him orders and takes his potential sale.

Watch Fair City on RTE One on Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.

11 April 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19

WHAT’S BIG IN MUSIC, CINEMA, TV AND ONLINE Complaints to watchdog fell by 33% last year THE Broadcasting Authority of Ireland (BAI) received 33% fewer complaints in 2018 relating to programming and advertisements broadcast on Irish radio and television, compared with the previous year.

Figures released Sunday, March 31 by the BAI, show that it received 73 valid complaints in 2018.

In 2017, it received 109 such complaints.

Valid complaints Of the valid complaints, 45 were made under the Code of Fairness, Objectivity and Impartiality and 20 under the Code of Programme Standards.

Four were in relation to the General Commercial Communications Code while four were under the Children’s Advertising Code.

“As is BAI policy, in general complainants must complain to the broadcaster in the first instance.

If they are not satisfied with the response from the broadcaster, they can then make a complaint to the BAI,” says BAI chief executive, Michael O’Keeffe.

“The reduction in the number of complaints received is very encouraging and is testament to the high level of compliance by broadcasters with the BAI’s broadcasting codes and rules.”

Warner Bros are hoping that fans go batty for Joaquin Phoenix’s compelling turn at the heart of the Joker’s dark origins tale

New Joker trailer is no laughing matter GARY IBBOTSON

WARNER Bros has released the first trailer for Joker, its upcoming origin story for the classic Batman villain.

It’s directed by Todd Phillips, and stars Joaquin Phoenix as the eponymous character.

The preview gives us our first look at Phoenix’s depiction of the character, a clown and struggling comedian from Gotham City named Arthur Fleck.

Fleck seems to have fallen on hard times. He is beaten up and humiliated on the streets and in the subway and sinisterly muses, “Is it just me, or is it getting crazier out there?”

Over the course of the trailer, we see his descent into madness, appearing at the very end in costume as the classic villain, with green hair, white face and red lips all prominently displayed.

The film is reportedly inspired by Mar-

tin Scorsese’s Taxi Driver and The King of Comedy – movies with leading characters struggling to deal with hardships and mental illness. Scorsese is credited as a producer on the film.

A scene in the trailer also shows an excited crowd queuing up to see Charlie Chaplin’s Modern Times – the classic film depicting the life of a factory worker completely overwhelmed by modern life and who consequently suffers a nervous breakdown.

Joker looks as though it’s pulling some of its inspiration from Alan Moore and Brian Bolland’s classic graphic novel Batman: The Killing Joke, which introduced one origin story for the character.

While there are some small references to the larger Warner Bros touchstones, such as Arkham Asylum, there’s no sight of Batman apart from a cameo appearance from a young Bruce Wayne.

Joker opens in cinemas on October 4.

ENTERTAINMENT

20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 11 April 2019

FOOD CRAFTBEERCORNER Hilden Brewing Company Belfast Blonde  PALE MAILE, Beer Aficionado This offering is from one of Ireland’s oldest independent breweries and she is the Belle of Belfast City.

This a very light beer with as expected from a Blonde but it is crisp too with just a hint of hops.

A very refreshing beer and with a 4.3% ABV it is certainly sessionable.

Picture: Sasko Lazarov/ Photocall Ireland

Chocaholics rejoice – ruby chocolate is here

This group of cheerful volunteers were delighted to help launch Street Feast 2019, which is expected to bring thousands of people together on May 5

THOUGHT chocolate couldn’t get any better?

Think again. After 13 years in development, ruby chocolate has arrived and it’s making quite an impact in the foodie world.

Ruby chocolate is the first new type of chocolate to be discovered since white chocolate, more than 80 years ago.

Recently crafted by chocolate experts, ruby chocolate is known to be significantly more expensive than milk, dark and white varieties and is made from the rare ruby cocoa bean.

Known to be incredibly smooth, intensely fresh and fruity with sweet yet sour notes, the flavour is completely unique.

With Easter on the horizon, Aldi have released their own ruby chocolate egg (above), available for €11.99 (350g), bringing the distinctive flavour to Ireland.

GARY IBBOTSON

Union Cafe outlets to host wellness events

UNION Cafe is launching a series of refreshingly balanced events this spring.

Taking place in The White Room in both of their Mount Merrion and Beacon South Quarter locations, the restaurant chain have partnered with Ketel One Botanical to curate this selection of wellness events.

Each of the four events will feature a movement class led by four of Dublin’s leading instructors, followed by a nourishing brunch or dinner created by Union Cafe head chef Siobhan MacDonagh.

The shared, long table feast will be paired with a selection of drinks created in partnership with the newly launched Ketel One Botanical.

Ketel One Botanical Vodka is distilled with real botanicals and infused with natural fruit essences. The new range is available in three flavours, Peach & Orange Blossom, Cucumber & Mint, and Grapefruit & Rose.

Tickets include movement class, goodie bag, brunch/ dinner, plus a selection of drinks.

The classes run from this Saturday, April 13 to Thursday, May 16. Tickets are available for €35 plus booking fee from Eventbrite.

COMMUNITY | TENS OF THOUSANDS EXPECTED TO SHARE IN FUN DAY

Tuck into Street Feast fun with neighbours REGISTRATIONS for Street Feast 2019 opened this week with the announcement that Sunday, May 5 will be national Street Feast Day. This year sees the tenth birthday of one of the most suc- cessful

community initiatives in Ireland.

An impressive 514 Street Feasts were held across Dublin in 2018, with more than 41,000 neighbours taking part.

The organisers are hoping for more success in 2019.

Registration for Street Feast is free and hosts can sign up for a free Street Feast pack which includes bunting, invitations, posters and a

handy guide.

Street Feast co-founder Sam Bishop says: “Street Feast is about building community and tackling isolation. It is a great opportunity for people to get together with their neighbours to share food and enjoy some conversation and camaraderie.

“It doesn’t matter if you live in an apartment or house, all you need is an outdoor space to bring people together.

“We have had feasts organised in front gardens, on streets and greens, in carparks, laneways, local parks and community centres.”

Organising a Street Feast could not be easier, Bishop says. “All people have to do is spread the word amongst a few neighbours and get everyone to bring along some food and drink for sharing.

“It has been hugely successful and we have

Appreciated by those

who love their Irish history

NAMED after a British barracks that used to sit adjacent to it, Beggars Bush and the surrounding area has a fascinating history.

The name of the pub is famed and appreciated by those who love their Irish history, being the first British barracks handed over to Michael Collins and the Irish Government in 1922. It was just down the road at Mount Street Bridge where one of the more successful stands of 1916 took place, and it was back to Beggars Bush where advancing troops retreated.

Serving pints since 1803, the walls of the pub are plastered with all the historical events that have gone on in or around the bar. To get a proper sense of how steeped in history the place is, it is worth first going to the website and then the bar itself. In the modern day, given its location.

As for present day offereings, the pint was cream personified. Tasted great and the temperature was about right, but it was just shy of the 8 mark. A very strong effort all the same ...

Ryan’s Beggars Bush Dublin 4 @guinnessadvisor

great stories of neighbours meeting each other for the first time at Street Feasts – making great connections and starting initiatives.”

Street Feast was set up

by Bishop and a group of volunteers in 2009 as a non-profit, communitybuilding initiative.

Since then it has grown steadily with 1,344 feasts organised in the country in 2018 which the team are aiming to build to 1500 in 2019.

11 April 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21

22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 11 April 2019

MOTORS

WHAT’S NEW IN THE WORLD OF TRANSPORT

Find premium French flair with this DS7 Crossback DECLAN GLYNN

F RO M i t s c r e a t i o n in 2014, the French automotive brand DS drew on an outstanding heritage – that of the DS 19 launched in 1955.

That legendary car embodies the values of innovation, excellence and avantgardism.

DS is the ultimate symbol of French highend automobiles, as t o d a y ’s D S m o d e l s combine remarkable d e s i g n , te c h n o l o g y, comfort, performance, premium materials and refinement.

As a brand, DS challenges established codes, to go beyond expectations of automobile customers.

A DS car is sensual and spectacular in its styling, refinement, and attention to detail.

From 2025, all new DS models will be available exclusively in electrified versions, either hybrid or fully electric, while DS promises six new cars by 2023.

The DS7 CROSSBACK is the first of the secondgeneration models from DS Automobiles.

This sophisticated SUV asserts itself with a stunning front end that is instantly recognisable.

From the side, its sculpted shape, and the intricate aesthetics of its alloy wheels, emphasise its dynamism.

Fa s h i o n e d l i ke a p i e c e o f j ewe l l e r y, DS Active LED Vi s i o n i s t h e exterior design’s ‘piece de resistance’.

At t h e b a c k , D S signature 3D-style LED taillights are found, connected by a chrome strip spanning the width of the tailgate. Some chunky black cladding

endows the car with a rugged, off-road look.

The new DS7 CROSSBACK is available in four highly-specified trim levels – Elegance, Pe r fo r m a n ce L i n e, P re s t i g e, a n d U l t r a Prestige.

Engine options consist of 130bhp or 180bhp petrol units, and 130bhp or 180bhp engines in diesel guise too.

A technologicallyadvanced 8-speed automatic gearbox joins a slick six-speed manual as transmission options, while annual road tax ranges between €190 and €280 depending on the engine and transmission chosen.

My review car was a D S 7 Pe r fo r m a n c e Line BlueHDi 180 EAT8 (2.0-litre turbodiesel, 180bhp, with an eight-speed automatic gearbox) and was finished in stunning grey metallic paint.

Standard Performance Line equipment includes 19” Black Onyx BEJING diamond-cut alloy wheels, black front grille, dark tinted rear windows, roof rails, black Alcantara and leatherette seats.

Other features included a perforated leather steering wheel,

aluminium sports pedals and footrest, Alcantara d a s h b o a rd a n d d o o r panels, 12.3” digital

Audi readies for the cars of tomorrow AUDI has released the first design sketches of the AI:me, a new design study that the brand with the four rings will be presenting at the Shanghai Motor Show on April 15.

The showcar illustrates the vision of an automated driving compact car for the megacities of tomorrow.

Audi is currently engaged in the most ambitious new model launch initiative in its history, and in 2019 its full effect will begin to be felt.

One of the most prominent results will be the market introduction of the e-tron SUV, the first ever fully electric Audi and the standardbearer for a major expansion of the BEV and PHEV portfolio that will see in excess of 20 electrified models join the range by 2025.

General drop in new vehicle registrations OFFICIAL statistics released by the Society of

instrument cluster, 12” HD touchscreen display, DS Connect 3D Nav, voice recognition, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth with media streaming, USB socket and DAB digital radio.

Even more f e a t u r e s included a rear armrest, front central armrest w i t h s t o r a g e, AG R- ce r t i f i e d ergonomic driver seat with electric l u m b a r su p p o r t, D S 3 D L E D re a r l i g h t s, perimetric & volumetric alarm, automatic dualzone air conditioning, and much, much more.

With 180bhp and 400Nm of torque available, the punchy engine in my review car can sprint from 0-100km/ h in just 9.9-seconds, while returning up to 43.3mpg (6.5l/100km) in the process.

The automatic gearbox shifts through the gears effortlessly, while the car is well insulated from road, engine and wind noise, for a supreme driving experience.

The cabin of the new DS7 CROSSBACK is a luxurious place to be, with obvious attention being lavished upon all occupants in the form of ultimate comfort and convenience.

In the tradition of quality craftsmanship, each detail and material used is carefully chosen and brought to life.

Stunningly designed, metal-look, switchgear for the electric windows a n d d r iv i n g m o d e s button add a real sense of occasion to every journey.

B o o t s p a ce i n t h e

DS7 is impressive, with 555-litres available with the rear seats in place, or a massive 1,752-litres w i t h t h e re a r se a t s folded.

Pricing for the new DS7 CROSSBACK starts at a competitive €36,000, with a fiveyear, unlimited mileage warranty included across the entire range.

FACT BOX

1) Luxury new SUV 2) Four trim levels 3) Petrol or diesel 4) Manual or automatic 5) Priced from €36,000

the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) show that total new car registrations for the month of March are down 5.6% (16,738) when compared with March 2018 (17,726).

New car registrations in the year, to date, are down 10.7% (64,098) on March 2018 (71,760).

Meanwhile, new Light Commercial Vehicle (LCV) registrations were down 2.2% (3,067) from March 2018 (3,137), and year to date down by 10.7% (11,182).

New Heavy Commercial Vehicles (HGV) saw a slight decline of 1.5% (267) on March 2018 (271), and year to date down 3.3% (886).

11 April 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23

CHALLENGE YOUR BRAIN...JUST FOR FUN!

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All you have to do is decide which letter is represented by which number!

To start you off, we reveal the codes for two or three letters.

As you find letters, enter them in the key and into the grid.

Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.

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11 April 2019 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 27

SPECIAL OLYMPICS P29

THE BEST IN DUBLIN

SPORT

LATE LATE SHOW: HURLING: A RONAN Hayes goal deep in injury-time snatched a 1-16 each draw for Kilmacud Crokes in the Dublin SHC ‘A’ Group 1 clash with Na Fianna in Parnell Park on Saturday afternoon.

Na Fianna looked to be heading for victory when points from Feargal Breathnach, Seán Currie, Colin Currie (free), Donal Burke and AJ Murphy had them 1-16 to 0-15 clear.



GAZETTE

RUGBY P28

PAGE 31

LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS INFORM YOU OF THE HIGHLIGHTS AND SCORES OF YOUR FAVOURITE TEAMS SOCCER | SPAIN PROVE TOO STRONG IN FINAL CHALLENGE

Irish U-19 hopes denied by Spain in last qualifier  sport@dublingazette.com

SEVERAL Dublin players were involved as the Republic of Ireland Under-19s fell just short of qualification for the European Championships in Scotland this summer.

Shelbourne trio Rachael Kelly, Tiegan Ruddy and Alannah McEvoy started alongside DLR Waves’ Roisin McGovern as Ireland fell to a 3-0 defeat to the overwhelming favourites Spain.

Dave Connell’s side had run out 4-0 winners in their opening two games over Hungary and Serbia, with former Peamount United striker Heather Payne on the double against the Magyars.

Carla McManus also netted against Hungary, while Ireland also benefitted from an own goal from Lily Anna Farkas.

They followed up that win with an even more impressive 4-0 victory over Serbia, with New Jersey striker Kelly Brady on the double, while Ruddy and captain Meghan Mackey also scored.

Ireland went into their final elite qualifier against European champions Spain knowing nothing short of a win would suffice to reach their first finals since 2014.

On that occasion, a side containing current senior captain Katie McCabe reached the semi-finals before losing out to eventual winners the Netherlands.

And they faced a similarly daunting task as they came up against the winners of the last two tournaments on home soil at Santiago de Compostela.

Two goals in the space of three firsthalf minutes from Claudia Pina, and Aoife Slattery’s own goal early in the second half, saw Ireland outclassed on the day.

“We did very well in Lithuania in the Qualifying Round and did very well over here,” said Connell.

“Today proved a bridge too far. Spain were exceptional. The better team won on the day. Hopefully this will stand to the girls next season.

“It’s been a pleasure working with

Peamount United’s Heather Payne

the girls who have finished with the Under-19 team today. I hope they go on now and play with the seniors”.

Kilnamanagh native McCabe was on target for the Republic of Ireland senior team as they came out the wrong side of a 2-1 scoreline against Italy in Reggio Emilia on Tuesday.

Denise O’Sullivan pounced on a mis-

take by Aurora Galli to play in the Arsenal striker to open the scoring with just three minutes on the clock.

The World Cup-bound Italians equalised before the break through a stunning strike from Juventus’ Barbara Bonansea, before Milan’s Daniela Sabatino headed home the winner in the second half.

SPORT CONTACT INFO SPORTS EDITOR: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@dublingazette.com

For more information or to send in news and photos: sport@dublingazette.com Phone: 01 601 0240

28 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 11 April 2019

CLUB NOTES

ROUND

2 1

LUCAN SARSFIELDS BALLYMUN KICKHAMS FIXTURES WELL donefor to our the adult Juniorchampionships A la have been set for next weekend. Our seniors are in Parnell Park on Saturday to play Kilmacud at 7pm, our inters have a bye week, while our junior A’s play Ballinteer in Marley park on Sunday at 11am while our junior B’s play St. Marks in Pc. Ciceam at 3pm, also on Sunday. Please try support our men!

Huge congratulations to our under 15’s boys who have continued their 10 month unbeaten run, this time with a huge victory over Templeogue in the ‘A’ championship. Well done Eamo and his team, in particular Rossa Hughes, Zak Farrell, Joe Fitzgeary, Lee Rafferty and James Marson. The lads will now face Sylvesters in the next round.

Well done all.

Our under 13 girls team also impressed yet again, congratulations to them on another impressive league win against Erin go Breagh on Saturday. A superb performance in goal by Alicia Lacey, complete with penalty save, was complimented by a brilliant debut for Áine Clinton on loan from the under 11’s. This outstanding team always remain solid and this week was no different. It also tops off a great week for some of the girls who made their confirmation. Maith sibh cailíní!

Our minor boys team also had an outstanding win, this time away to Cuala. Star players for the minors were Corey Power, Ryan Murphy and Dean Robertson.

Our Easter camp this year is on in St. Kevins school between Monday 15th to Thursday 18th April, all details here on our website: http://www. ballymunkickhams.com/category/nursery-andjuvenile-news/ We would like to remind all members, that under no circumstances are dogs allowed on our pitches and surrounds, and that smoking is not allowed on our pitches and surrounds. This is an executive order, and will be strictly enforced.

For more information on all our news snippets, go to our website, FaceBook, Twitter or Instagram page, where you can find a myriad of facts about the club!

O’TOOLE’S IT’S CHAMPIONSHIP time and our Senior footballers have an important game this Saturday 13th in Donabate at 6pm. Come along and show your support.

The more cheers they hear, the better our lads play.

In O’Toole’s great club where are girls are not only pretty but verytalented as well. Starting with our U15’s that had a home game and a drawwith a competent St Sylvester’s.

Then up was our U13’s who had a comprehensive home win over Clontarf.

What a team effort by all players.

Are we finished….not by a long shot. Next to the party is our U12’s who travelled to Newcastle for their

away win over St Finians.

This was another very even end to end game, played well by both sides. So, we say ‘Well done’ girls, keep up the good work.

Well done to our minor footballers on their away win to a tough Na Fianna team, in the league on Sunday. The lads stood together as one and played for a well deserved victory.

It was win win for both our U14 football teams.

Our B team travelled to Portmarnock on Saturday for their superb league win. While our A team, travelling just across the road (as the crow flies) had an excellent league win over near neighbours Parnells on Friday evening.

RUGBY: THORNTON STRIKES DRAMATIC LATE PENALTY TO LIFT

Terenure give AIL escape hopes a massive boost AIL DIVISION 1A Clontarf 15 Terenure College 16  sport@dublingazette.com

OUT-HALF James Thornton struck a dramatic injury-time penalty at Castle Avenue on Saturday afternoon to guide relegation-threatened Terenure College to a vital 16-15 win over Division 1A semi-finalists Clontarf.

The visitors looked set to fall short in this Dublin derby when scrum half Angus Lloyd broke away for Clontarf’s 64thminute try.

Thornton’s dependable right boot kept ‘Nure in contention, however, and his ice-cool demeanour and accuracy from the tee ensured that they lifted themselves off the foot of the table.

It was second against tenth at the north Dublin venue, with Andy Wood’s charges aiming to stay

ahead of Lansdowne in their battle for a home semi-final in the top flight of the All-Ireland League.

Nonetheless, Nure, who had beaten fell ow s t r u g g l e rs U CC and Shannon in recent weeks, began the contest on the front foot and applied significant pressure early on.

It was Clontarf who were first on the scoreboard, though, as David Joyce punished an 11thminute high tackle with a well-struck penalty goal.

Just a few minutes later, Lloyd spread the play from a ruck and Jack Power was able to release Cian O’Donoghue for a neat try on the left wing. Joyce’s conversion was cancelled out by a smoothly-struck penalty from Thornton in the 22nd minute.

Te re nu re n a r row l y avoided the concession of a second try before

Terenure College celebrate their win over Clontarf in the changing rooms following the game. Picture: Terenure RFC

d raw i n g t h e m se l ve s level for half-time at 10-all.

Young centre Adam La Grue’s powerful break from deep created space in behind ‘Tarf’s defensive line and his wellplaced pass sent former Leinster winger Sam Coghlan Murray over for his third try in two league matches, converted brilliantly by Thornton.

With so much at stake, it proved to be a largely attritional third quarter

with a series of turnover penalties making it difficult for either side to build momentum.

Seizing the initiative, the razor-sharp Lloyd stunned Terenure when he intercepted a loose pass and raced away for a potentially game-changing try. Joyce missed the conversion, nonetheless, and Thornton’s 69thminute penalty gave ‘Nure fresh hope.

Clontarf, who visit Lansdowne in next Sat-

urday‘s final round, came under further pressure after losing openside Tony Ryan to the sin-bin, and James Blaney’s men duly forced another shot at goal for the impressive Thornton.

He made no mistake with a clinical place-kick from the left, and while ‘Nure remain secondfrom-bottom, a victory at home to Young Munster next week will preserve their top flight status for another year.

Irish medals galore in Torun

Clonliffe’s gold medalist Snezana Bechtina.

Picture: Patrick Crossan

CLONLIFFE’S Snezana Bechtina was one of the Irish stars of the Masters Athletics team that competed in Torun, Poland last week.

She took 200 metre gold in a new national record time for women’s Over-35s while she followed up with a silver medal in the 400 metre race.

She was among a number of Dubliners to win well in the competition with Donore Harriers Ann Woodlock in the women’s Over-80s with gold in the 3,000m and silver in the 1,500m, both times doing it in new national record time.

Raheny’s Annette Kealy added another medal to her huge career haul. She was the gold medalist in the women’s Over-50s in the 8km cross country race along with a silver medal in her 3,000m event.

The 106 Irish Masters Athletes that travelled (from age 35 to age 83) performed exceptionally well during the week winning a total of 41 medals (10 Gold, 18 Silver and 13 Bronze).

This ranked Ireland 11th overall out of the 101 countries competing – continuing to punch well above their weight.

11 April 2019 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 29

NURE OFF BOTTOM

SPECIAL OLYMPICS: ASHTOWN WOMAN SHINES IN DUBAI

Edel’s golden moment as Phoenix Flyer soars SPECIAL OLYMPICS HOMECOMING

Special Olympics Edel Armstrong with her medals from the World Games.

 JAMES HENDICOTT

sport@dublingazette.com

FEDERATION CUP

Fennelly named in Irish side for Montenegro RATHMINES woman Jane Fennelly will compete for Ireland’s Federation Cup side that will contest the Europe/Africa Group III event in Montenegro, starting on Monday, April 15.

Ireland have been drawn in a competition with Norway, Egypt, Armenia, Morocco, Montenegro, Madagascar, Kenya and Uganda. She is in the squad alongside fellow Dubliners Rachael Dillon and Juliana Carton.

Picture: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile

TWO PODIUM finishes for Special Olympics swimmer Edel Armstrong were the highlights of a swimming career that has already stretched beyond the young athlete’s dreams as she rose to a world medal winning standard at the contest in the UAE in mid-March.

Armstrong trains with the Phoenix Flyers club under Liz Ward, and qualified for the Irish Special Olympic team after a strong showing at the Irish Nationals last year.

The Ashtown-based youngster, in her early 20s, competes in category one, for those with mild learning disabilities. Her team, the Flyers, train in Coolmine swimming pool.

Only a few days before the event, it had looked likely Armstrong would have to pull out, after she developed an ear infection and was advised not to swim for several weeks.

She pulled through, however, and went on to win a silver medal in the 100 metre freestyle, finish fifth in the 200 metre freestyle and win gold with her teammates in the relay event at the swimming portion of the games in Dubai.

“I didn’t think I’d come back with any of these medals,” Armstrong told Dublin Gazette, pointing to the hefty but intricate metal she’s laid on the table before us.

“I was so nervous going out I was almost shaking. The training was going really well until the ear infection. I thought I wasn’t able to swim and found out I could on the last day before I went. We did a few lengths with the coaches to get ready. I’m really happy with how I did.

“They were really good hosts. When I won the gold for the relay, we were waiting for the results and we didn’t know where we’d finished.

We thought we might be fourth, I was really, really happy when we were first.”

Armstrong swam the freestyle closing leg.

Other highlights included walking behind the

Irish flag at a massive opening ceremony, as well as being cheered by substantial family support at races, and watching Nicole Scherzinger perform at the closing ceremony.

The community spirit of the games stood out, too, with the Ireland team forming a tight bond as they worked towards their goals, as well as mingling with the other teams, exchanging national badges and experiencing different cultures.

“When I won the gold, I was almost crying with joy,” Armstrong said. “I thought we hadn’t got it. The opening ceremony was great, too, with the trip back stage, and walking out. I really liked that, wearing the uniforms. When we got back, there were paparazzi in the airport waiting for us.”

“The next event is in Berlin in four years time.

I really hope I can be picked for that,” she concluded.

Good’s timely return for Pembroke MEN’S EY HOCKEY LEAGUE  STEPHEN FINDLATER

sport@dublingazette.com

PEMBROKE bounced back from their chastening 8-1 defeat last time out to beat Banbridge 5-2 at Serpentine Avenue, all but ending Bann’s hopes of winning the regular season title.

They started well on top, winning a number of corners with one ending in a stroke which Stephen

Sweetnam converted, Luke Roleston made a number of key saves but they fell further behind when Patrick Good got on the board just before half-time in what was the veteran’s first game of the season for the first team.

A Harry Spain penalty corner made it 3-0 in the second half before Eugene Magee got one back, reducing the arears at three-quarter time to 3-1.

Banbridge went to a

kicking back with 10 minutes to go but it backfired spectacularly as Good and Jack Ryan both scored, countering Magee’s second of the day for a 5-2 win.

It was Pembroke’s ninth win of the campaign and means they can still overhaul both Bann and Glenanne if they win both their games and that duo lose both. That would bring a Champions Trophy playoff place.

Pembroke’s Harry Spain. Picture: Adrian Boehm

30 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 11 April 2019

LADIES FOOTBALL

RUGBY: THRILLING DERBY AT ANGLESEA ROAD

Belvo put big dent in Wes title hopes AIL DIVISION 1B

Clontarf’s Niamh Hetherton closes in on Cork’s Niamh Cotter. Picture: Sportsfile

Dubs loss leads to Cork rematch DUBLIN LOST 2-8 to 2-13 out to Cork in Mallow on Saturday, in a game that ensures the two will meet again in the ladies football national league semi-finals.

Mick Bohan fielded a much changed team as he looked to run the rule over his bench, with Dublin having already confirmed their place in the last four.

Meetings with Cork, though, are never without the weight of history: Dublin’s All Ireland win against the Rebelettes last year came off the back of years of dominance from the Munster girls, a substantial-feeling backdrop.

Noelle Healy is now a familiar figure in Cork, playing with their ladies’ powerhouse Mourneabbey, but familiarity doesn’t seem to have blunted her impact. A fantastic pass from the Dub in the opening seconds played in Carla Rowe for a goal for Dublin almost from the off.

Any hint that the Dubs were in for any comfort as they pushed for a rare third successive victory against Cork was quickly washed away, however.

Cork were an attacking threat throughout, and were level after 11 minutes, when Marie O’Callaghan ran in behind the Dubs and fired home.

Prior to the goal, Cork had already had a clear sight of the Dublin net, but hooked just wide.

It was nip and tuck for most of the remainder of the first half, though Cork’s 1-4 to 1-3 lead flattered Dublin, who had seen the home side fail to convert at least four strong goal chances as the half wore on.

Cork were edging away in the early stages of the second half, and looked like they’d put the game to bed when Niamh Cotter fired home a second goal, but this Dublin side - even in weakened form - don’t give up easily. They were already on their way back when Eimear Meaney was sent to the sideline for 10 minutes.

That prompted a Dublin revival, with the gap narrowed to just 2-8 to 2-7 when Clontarf’s Siobhan Killeen hit a goal for the visitors and brought the game back to life.

As it turned out, that was the push Cork needed to see the game out, and they wrestled back control with a run of 0-5 to 0-1 in the closing stages to send Bohan’s side back to the capital for two weeks of thinking ahead of a more-meaningful rematch.

“It was a good chance for some of our players to test themselves against one of the top sides in the country,” Bohan said after the game.

“We don’t like to lose any game and it always hurts when you do so we are hurting a bit now.”

The two sides will meet again in the semis in just a fortnight’s time, a game that’s likely to give a firmer impression of ladies’ football’s pecking order going into the summer.

Old Belvedere 30 Old Wesley 24  sport@dublingazette.com

OLD Belvedere put a big dent into Old Wesley’s automatic promotion hopes as they nicked a 30-24 victory, knocking Wes off top spot while boosting their own playoff chances.

Before most of the pre match lunch guests had their coats on, Belvo were seven points up after an intercept by Jack Keating earned them a try under the posts.

After the early dust settled, Old Wesley eventually got a footing and Rory Stynes got Wesley on the scoreboard with a well struck penalty goal after 15 minutes.

Belvo, though, were more assured in possession as Wesley spilled some chances via handling errors and turnovers and the Anglesea Road club moved further ahead via a Steve Crosby penalty.

Then five minutes before half time, their mobile back line out stretched the Wesley defence allowing Joe White to score in the corner for a 15-3 half-time lead.

The second half started

Old Wesley scrum half Charlie O’Regan makes a break. Picture: Ken Richardson

much brighter for Old Wesley with an attack down the left wing. After some good handling JJ O’Dea crossed for Wesley’s first try, well converted by Stynes. But soon after, Belvo regained the initiative and they looked to be over on the right wing only to be called back for a foot in touch.

No matter, Belvo nicked the line out, allowing Eoin O’Neill to cross virtually untouched for a try.

Just after the hour mark, a scrum and a rehearsed move saw Peter O’Beirne crossed under the posts for the home side, and it looked like game over.

U-16A CAMOGIE Na Fianna duo play part in draw with Kilkenny DUBLIN’S Under-16A camogie

side produced a super performance to earn a draw against Kilkenny in their Leinster championship showdown with a 2-11 to 1-14 final scoreline.

The side feature a healthy contingent from Na Fianna with Laura Grendon and Sinead Rogers starting alongside St Jude’s Ash Gannon and Clair Gannon.

Dublin’s Siobhan McGrath lays off a pass. Picture: Matt Browne/Sportsfile

Picture: ilivephotos.com

Wesley, however, were not giving up and launched an immediate response.

A quickly taken penalty by Charlie O’Regan and some good hands had Belvo on the back foot as substitute Lachy Anderson received the final pass who snuck in in the corner for a try.

With six minutes to go, Belvo extended their lead to 13 points with a penalty but, shortly after, winger Jack Keating was yellow carded for not releasing.

From the ensuing penalty, Wesley piled forward and, from a second penalty, Paul Harte took a quick tap, eventually leading to a try

by Conor Maguire.

With the gap eight points Miller again did the needful kicking the conversion for a losers bonus point.

Now in injury time and with renewed enthusiasm, Wesley threw everything forward but the final pass did not go to hand.

The result leaves Old Wesley in second place on the league table three points behind Ballynahinch.

Next week it’s the final match of the campaign against eighth-placed Armagh but they need a favour from St Mary’s against Hinch.

11 April 2019 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 31

HURLING: CROKES DIG OUT RESULT IN INJURY TIME IN SHC OPENING TIE

HURLING

Vincent’s cruise to opening SHC win

Kilmacud Crokes’ Ronan Hayes fires his crucial late goal. Pictures: Steven Dagg

Na Fianna denied big win by Hayes heroics SENIOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP  sport@dublingazette.com

A RONAN Hayes goal deep in injury-time snatched a 1-16 each draw for Kilmacud Crokes in the Dublin SHC ‘A’ Group 1 clash with Na Fianna in Parnell Park on Saturday afternoon.

Na Fianna looked to be heading for victory when points from Feargal Breathnach, Seán Currie, Colin Currie (free), Donal Burke and AJ Murphy had them 1-16 to 0-15 clear as the game moved into added time.

Hayes then converted a 45-metre free, following a foul on Fergal Whitely, before dramatically earning a share of the points for the Stillorgan men with his goal in the third minute of injury-time.

Anthony Daly’s Crokes, beaten finalists in the last three years, trailed 0-7 to 1-8 at half-time with Na Fianna’s goal arriving in the sixth minute when Seán Currie was on target.

Donal Burke, who finished with 0-5 from play, struck some fine scores for the St Mobhi Road outfit who led 1-8 to 0-5 after 20 minutes before Crokes concluded the opening half on the up with points from Ronan Hayes (free) and Alex Considine, who tallied 0-3 overall.

With ten minutes left Crokes had edged in front after Mark Grogan, Caolan Conway and Whitely, with his third point from play, were on target to nose 0-15 to 1-11 ahead.

But Na Fianna looked to have given themselves a winning position when an unbroken chain of five points in-a-row.

The outcome though was not decided yet as Crokes struck at the finish to earn a draw as the Mobhi men were left to rue shooting 17 wides over the hour.

Craobh Chiaráin cruised to a 35-point victory over and understrength Nh Fionnbarra in Thursday night’s Dublin SHC ‘A’ Group 3 encounter in Parnell Park.

The Donnycarney men made light of the conditions, which deteriorated into the second half, as they played an attractive brand of accurate first-time hurling.

Barrs’ cause was not helped, to state the obvious, by the loss of several players to injury including Dublin forward Eamonn Dillon.

Cian Derwin starred for Craobh in the half-forward line and apart from striking over eight frees he also hitting five from play as well as contributing well to his side’s game-plan.

However, it was Nh Fionnbarra who raised the first green flag of the net when

Jay Roe found the net following good work

by Ger Dodrill and Seán Mac Donnacha.

That gave the Cabra side a 1-1 to 0-2 lead in the fifth minute but they were soon rocked by two Craobh goals in quick succession.

Billy Ryan and Robbie Mahon both rattled the Barrs net to propel their side into a 2-4 to 1-1 lead by the ninth minute and they never looked back as they led 2-9 to 1-4 at the interval.

Six minutes into the second half James

Finn, who had tallied 0-2 in the first half, hit the first of his two goals after good selfless interplay by Chiaráins.

In the 43rd and 44th minutes Craobh grabbed two more goals when Billy Ryan and Paul Kelly were the scoregetters to make it 5-13 to 1-5.

Finn scrambled home goal number six in the 46th minute after Derwin originally drove for goal from 25 metres and before the finish Mahon added their seventh goal, 7-22 to 1-6.

ST VINCENT’S launched their 2019 SHC ‘A’ Group 3 campaign with a 13-point victory over St Oliver Plunkett’s/ ER at a wet and windy Parnell Park.

The Marino men were the better side throughout and with wind advantage were 0-14 to 0-1 in front at the interval, Plunkett’s only score coming in the 17th minute when Stuart Mullen converted a free. Conor Burke put in an impressive opening for Vins and by the break he had five points from play to his credit.

John Hetherton tallied five freees in the opening period and with Mark O’Farrell, Ruairi Trainor and Rian McBride strong at the back it was mostly oneway traffic.

By the 16th minute, Vincent’s were 0-10 to 0-0 clear and they never looked in any trouble despite an improvement by Plunkett’s in the second half with the wind in their favour. Both teams were reduced to 14 men late in the first half when Cian McBride (St Vincent’s) and David Phelan (Plunkett’s) were red-carded.

Plunkett’s did not have long to wait in the second period for their second score when Mullen pointed from play but they were facing an impossible task.

Six minutes into the second half Vins raised a green flag when Alan Moore fired to the net past Plunkett’s keeper Bill McCormack, who showed great reflexes on several occasions to deny Vincent’s, after moving onto a long angled delivery from Frankie Power. Sean Clerkin’s goal proved a consolation.

32 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 11 April 2019