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WHEREVER YOU ARE IN THE DCC AREA, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED  FEBRUARY 15-21, 2018

DEAR MARY More great advice from our favourite X-Factor star! P19

MUSIC Eddi Reader ready to wow Dublin P21

DISMAY AT LATEST TWIST IN SAGA OVER FATE OF 1916 BUILDINGS

No Moore time for battle sites?

Campaigners vow to fight on after ruling by Court of Appeal that historic Rising sites at Moore Street CAN be developed

SPORT The new LOI season has landed!

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 MARK O’BRIEN CAMPAIGNERS have called for dialogue in an attempt to preserve the historic elements of Moore Street following a ruling that the area cannot be classed as a historic monument.

The Court of Appeal yesterday (Wednesday) overturned a 2016 High Court decision that prevented redevelopment of some of the buildings in the area, which formed part of the 1916 Rising battlefield.

The case was originally taken by Colm Moore on behalf of the 1916 Relatives Association.

Continued on Page 5 Pictures: Shane Dillon

2 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 15 February 2018

BALLYMUN | NO FOUL PLAY IN DETECTIVE SUPERINTENDENT’S DEATH

Tributes paid as top garda dies suddenly  RACHEL D’ARCY TRIBUTES have been paid to a senior garda investigator following his death last weekend.

Detective Superintendent Colm Fox (right) was found dead in Ballymun Garda Station.

No foul play is suspected, but An Garda Siochana and the Garda Ombudsman are both carrying out separate investigations into Det Supt Fox’s tragic death. At present, his death is being considered a personal tragedy.

Det Supt Fox was in his fifties when he passed away last Saturday.

Although based in Ballymun at the time of his

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Picture: The Irish Sun

passing, Det Supt Fox spend most of his career at Blanchardstown Garda Station.

He played a key role in the investigation into the shooting at the Regency Hotel two years ago – an

incident that marked the beginning of the KinahanHutch feud.

Det Supt Fox has been described as “popular” by his peers, and many paid tribute to him following his passing.

‘Det Supt Fox has been described as “popular” by his peers, and many paid tribute to him following his passing’ --------------------------

Prior to the beginning of a trial at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court, Paul O’Higgins SC, prosecuting, said he knew Supt Fox since his first days as a garda.

He described the senior

garda as a most decent man, both professionally and in his dealings with people.

Brendan Grehan SC, defending, said the deceased was a top police officer, a pleasure to deal with and someone who “always got the best out of the team around him”.

Judge Karen O’Connor agreed that it was a very sad death and said her thoughts were with Supt Fox’s family at this tragic time.

She said: “There are very few at the Bar who won’t have encountered him. I know from my own experience that any team Supt Fox was involved in always spoke very highly of him.”

FASTNews

Council adds new housing department section to help check private rented homes DUBLIN City Council have introduced a new section of their housing department, designed to inspect private rented homes.

The council encourages neighbours and residents to report any issues or concerns they may have over private rented dwellings to the new department.

Legally, landlords are required to maintain all buildings to a good standard, and to ensure they comply to all regulations. This news comes as Daft. ie have revealed rents in Dublin are increasing by more than 10% a year.

DCC ask that if anyone notices issues with overcrowding, fire safety or excessive waste, to contact their local councillor, or to directly contact the council at privaterented@dublincity.ie

Un-bearably cute Northern Cross relief sisters get road is a ‘must’ for the help for National Capital Plan – Lab teddy pals

EILEEN and Saoirse McCarthy showed they were furry kind-hearted when they brought their teddy bears to the fourth annual RCSI Teddy Bear Hospital check-up beside St Stephen’s Green last weekend. The siblings were among the hundreds of children who came along, with several RCIS specialists on hand to help look after bears who’d had the stuffing knocked out of them as part of their highly-demanding teddy bear lifestyles. The event was also a great way to help fundraise for the Jack and Jill Foundation. Picture: Julian Behal

A DUBLIN city councillor has said that the Government “must” include the Northern Cross relief road in the National Capital Plan.

Cllr Alison Gilliland (Lab) has said that it is “essential” that the relief road is included in the plan, which is due to be announced tomorrow (Friday).

The road is proposed to reduce immense traffic congestion at the Clarehall Avenue/R139/Malahide Road junction on the north side of the city.

Cllr Gilliland said: “This area has huge potential to become a key residential, retail and enterprise district; however, local residents are at breaking point with the extent of traffic gridlock at the moment.

“The approval of 150 new social housing units in the area was severely criticised, given the poor local traffic infrastructure.

“At a recent stakeholders’ consultation, organised

by Dublin City Council on the future of the area, the relief road was viewed as a top priority.

“If it is not included in the Government’s upcoming Capital Plan, it will show a distinct lack of attention to local needs and no comprehension of progressive land management.”

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15 February 2018 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 3

TRANSPORT | SOME BUS TIMES DOUBLED; COLD SHOULDER FOR SUGGESTION TO REDIRECT BUSES

City’s fed-up commuters rail against Luas problems ‘Dart Underground is needed now, not later’

 RACHEL D’ARCY SOME bus journeys have more than doubled in duration since the introduction of the Luas Cross City, it has been revealed, with local representatives blasting the impact on hard-pressed commuters.

Since being introduced in December, the Luas Cross City link has caused traffic chaos within the city centre.

In January, several bus routes were re-routed from College Green to try to alleviate rush-hour traffic.

However, last week, an analysis of bus journey times over three days within the city have shown that journey times have doubled since the introduction of Cross City.

The Luas has also caused issues for taxi drivers, with the same analysis showing that taxis and buses are moving at just 1.7kmph during rush hour traffic.

There have now been suggestions that all traffic apart from the Luas should be banned from College Green to O’Connell Bridge.

It is believed that outside of peak times, the

 RACHEL D’ARCY

From gridlock to blocked junctions, commuters by bus, rail and road – and bike – are still waiting for the Luas Cross City operational issues to settle down

Luas can cross the centre city within five minutes, but in peak times the Luas is only able to serve 22 journeys per hour, as opposed to the planned 40.

T he suggestion to remove buses has been met with criticism from local councillors, saying that buses serve many more people than “the Luas ever will”.

The redirection of buses outside of the primary city travel corridor would result in individuals potentially being left nowhere near their end destination.

It would also encourage traffic in other areas of the city, such as along the quays.

Deputy Noel Rock (FG) said: “When it comes to any suggestion that buses should be run off the road in order to prioritise the Luas, all public representatives need to be clear: absolutely not. “[Bus] routes have been established over the course of decades based on demand.

“Any alternative routes would, given how much of the city arteries the Luas now runs along, require buses to be stopping nowhere near where people actually want to be.

“It would be nothing short of a planning disaster, and would be favouring the few over the many”.

As previously reported

in Dublin Gazette, those on social media have reported that travel times could be up to 40 minutes in rush-hour in certain areas following the first redirection of buses to new routes.

The addition of new, longer trams that have been put in service have also come under scrutiny, with the revelation that the 55-metre trams have the potential to block yellow boxes and junctions.

These carriages can hold 380 passengers, while a standard Luas can hold 320. Their introduction last Thursday saw part of the longer trams protruding onto the quays from O’Connell Bridge, causing traffic issues.

WITH the city centre experiencing traffic disruption, a TD has called for the introduction of the Dart Underground amidst calls for a restructuring of central public transport.

Deputy Catherine Martin (GR) called for the introduction of the underground rail system to streamline public transport within Dublin.

The Dart Underground would run under the city centre and link all rail, Dart and Luas services. At 7.6km long, it would connect to Heuston Station and then go on to Kildare.

“The Dart Underground is the missing piece that would, for the first time, give Ireland’s capital city the joined-up network of commuter rail and light rail that it so badly needs,” she wrote in an op-ed for Journal.ie.

In recent weeks, a commitment has also been given to getting the green light for Dart Underground in the Government’s National Planning Framework.

However, project planners in 2017 The longer carriages were introduced after complaints of overcrowding; however, users on social media – such as 98FM DJ Jeremy Dixon – have posted images of

announced it would be “at least” 2030 before commuters would be able to use the line.

Labour councillor for PembrokeRathmines, Dermot Lacey, said that while the Dart Underground is needed, the city has more “immediate” problems.

Referencing recent gridlock issues at College Green, he told Dublin Gazette: “Dublin needs the Dart Underground, but even more immediately and at hugely less cost, we need one single Dublin transport authority accountable to the people of Dublin, to take over as much of the powers of the 60+ existing bodies responsible for traffic in our county. That is why we have the current mess.”

Cllr Ciaran Cuffe (GR) also backed calls for the Dart Underground, saying: “It is crucial that the Government invests in such high-capacity public transport infrastructure so that Dublin doesn’t grind to a halt.

“It doesn’t make sense to widen the roads leading to Dublin unless public transport also gets the money it deserves.”

packed, “unsafe” Luas carriages.

Posting on Twitter, he said: “It’s a serious safety issue. I’ve just got off a Luas that was so packed, two children were visibly

upset.”

In response to a request from Dublin Gazette for a response to the issues raised, a spokesperson for Luas operators Transdev declined to comment.

Free online GP access for USI students  RACHEL D’ARCY

MORE than 370,000 students are set to avail of free access to online GP consultations thanks to a new Union of Students (USI) initiative.

All members of USI will be able to receive a seven-daya-week GP service from VideoDoc until the end of the academic year. VideoDoc is an Irish company that lets individuals log on from their computer or mobile device to see a GP.

Every doctor working with VideoDoc is registered with the Irish Medical Council, and the service is available from 8am to 10pm, seven days a week. The partnership between USI and VideoDoc was launched as part of a campaign to promote health and wellbeing in their 37 campuses nationwide.

USI president Michael Kerrigan says that the free use of VideoDoc will allow students to “rest assured”.

He said: “With the high cost

Michael Kerrigan, president, USI with Mary O’Brien, Videodoc’s chief executive and Dr Brian McManus, medical director, VideoDoc

of living and accommodation being a main factor in student poverty, [USI] students can

now rest assured that if they get sick, they can save money on a GP visit with VideoDoc”.

Where needed, students will also be prescribed medication through the app. The prescriptions will be available for pickup at a chosen pharmacy or sent directly to the patient.

Doctors will be unable to prescribe controlled drugs.

Many colleges offer oncampus doctors or medical help; however, they have been criticised in the past for lengthy waiting lists.

Mary O’Brien, chief executive and co-founder of Vid-

eoDoc, says: “Our experience is that about 70% of all GP visits can be treated online.

“Students who need to see a doctor but are far from their family GP, or too busy to attend a surgery between regular 9-to5 working hours, can now log on from anywhere.”

VideoDoc allows individuals who aren’t students to pay just €20 per consultation, with monthly subscriptions to the app also available for €30, or €75 for a family of four.

4 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 15 February 2018

CAMPAIGN | SUBTLE CODEWORD USED TO HELP PROTECT WOMEN AND MEN

Just look out for ‘Angela’ at the bar if you feel in danger  RACHEL D’ARCY

With the success of the #AskForAngela initiative in Waterford (above), Dubs can expect to see similar posters appearing in many of their favourite venues soon

A NEW initiative designed to help individuals escape from uncomfortable situations on nights out has been welcomed by An Garda Siochana.

Following a successful pilot scheme in Tipperary, #AskForAngela encourages women – and men – to ask security or bar staff to “ask for Angela”, Angela being a recognised code word that can be used to ask for help.

An Garda Siochana backed the scheme last month on Crimecall, ahead of its launch in Cork this week.

‘Angela’ was introduced

by Waterford City Council to local pubs last November, and gardai now aim to have it rolled out nationwide.

There are calls for the initiative to be introduced in Dublin, given the high volume of nightlife and pubs in the city, as well as the increasing use of dat-

ing apps such as Tinder.

Dublin City Cllr Rebecca Moynihan (Lab) said: “With more people now using online dating apps to meet people, they may find themselves in a situation where they don’t feel safe or something simply feels ‘off’, and this code of ‘asking for Angela’ is a great way of letting staff know they might need help.”

Posters are displayed on the back of bathroom doors and in other discreet locations with an explanation of the initiative.

“Tinder date not who they said they were? Does it all feel a bit weird?” are just some of the questions detailed on the poster, before encouraging those in uncomfortable situations to ‘ask for Angela’.

Guidelines are also given to venues and staff that participate in the scheme, detailing how to help the individual in question that asks for assistance.

City centre colleges

are also welcoming the introduction of the initiative, with Trinity College welfare officer Damien McClean saying it’s important to have such practices in place to ensure everyone’s safety.

He said: “The importance of increasing safety for people in alcoholbased environments cannot be overstated, and this project is another way to ensure people feel safe in such environments.

“It’s really positive to see the joint issues of consent and harassment being taken seriously by publicans, and I for one would love to see #AskforAngela spreading throughout the country, as a common part of the safety routine when people are on a night out.” #AskForAngela was initially launched in Lincolnshire in late 2016, by Hayley Child. It gained worldwide acclaim after a social media post of the poster in the bathroom of a pub went viral.

FASTNews

Wing it over to a chicken challenge A PUB in Finglas have launched a ‘chicken fillet roll challenge’, based on the Food Network TV show Man Vs Food.

The Shamrock Lounge invite punters to eat a three-foot chicken fillet roll without a drink, inside 5 minutes, with the pub saying the challenger “must eat what’s on it”.

If they can eat the entire roll in the 15 minutes it’s free, but if they fail to eat the entire sandwich it will cost €20.

A pop star who Cher-ly likes Irish politics LEGENDARY pop icon Cher has found herself involved in Irish politics – after tweeting her support for a ban of oil drilling off the Irish coast.

The ‘Believe’ songstress responded to a tweet from Green Party member and Dail researcher Sinead Mercier, asking the 71-year-old to support the Climate Emergency bill.

Her response? “#HELLTOTHEYES” This bill would see Ireland become the fourth country in the world to ban oil and gas drilling.

The People Before Profit bill would stop the Government from issuing new contracts to drill for fossil fuels.

It was passed in the Dail last week, to be further considered. The bill would help Ireland meet its targets, set under the Paris Climate Agreement.

15 February 2018 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 5

Call to act over Moore Street

Continued from Page 1

The appeal was brought

by The Minister for Arts and Heritage and Dublin Central Limited Partnership, a company that owns some of the buildings in the area.

The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Micheal Mac Donncha, had campaigned for the preservation of the site and was in court for the appeal ruling.

He told Dublin Gazette that the verdict was “disappointing” but more time was needed to examine the final ruling.

“It’s two separate, very detailed judgements so they have to be examined to see all the implications but obviously, on initial hearing, it is disappointing,” he said.

“The scandal here is that a private citizen had to take a case at all to prevent the destruction of a national monument.”

Mayor Mac Donncha said that he felt that the preservation of the site

was a political issue and called on Minister Josepha Madigan to work with local groups to find a solution.

He said: “The judgement said that the designation of national monuments is a matter for the Minister. The ball is very much in her court, and we believe that she should intervene.”

Cllr Mac Donncha said that he did not want to see a shopping mall in the area, as has been mooted, and hopes the area could be developed in another way, and added: “It’s eminently solvable if the Government and the owners are prepared to accept that a new plan is needed.”

The 1916 Relatives Association also called for all parties to take time to consider the court’s ruling. In a statement, they also appealed for all parties to work together in the hope of finding “a solution that can meet the concerns of the stakeholders and the Irish people”.

NORTH INNER CITY | UNEASE AT GROUP’S DISTRIBUTED BOOKLETS

Scientology’s links to drug leaflets in focus  RACHEL D’ARCY

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Scientology’s HQ building, California

CONCERNS have been raised over Scientology’s links to groups promoting anti-drug awareness in the north inner city.

The groups have been distributing information to schools in the north city; however their links to Scientology were not explicitly detailed in the material circulated.

Internal emails within the Department of Health and the HSE report an unease by both executives and other drug awareness groups over the booklets, as well as talks supposedly given by the groups within the north inner city area.

One of the groups – Foundation for a Drug Free World – was established by the Church of Scientology in 2006, and is based in California.

Truth About Drugs – another group distributing information in the city – was praised for their

‘One of the groups – Foundation for a Drug Free World – was established by the Church of Scientology in 2006, and is based in California’

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

work at the opening of Scientology’s Dublin “church and community centre” in October last year.

Self-help books have also been distributed to working class areas in Dublin, with titles such as Do Not Murder, and Be Competent.

T he books also have no direct mention of Scientology; however, Scientology’s founder, L Ron Hubbard, is registered as the trademark holder

for the literature.

A group called The Way to Happiness, a name of another self-help book being distributed, has been delivering the 70-page guides to homes in the inner city.

It has been reported that Scientology aims to increase its “efforts to educate Irish people”, with speculation arising over their exact plans for the organisation in Ireland.

Scientology’s sudden rise of investment in Ireland in recent

years has garnered much controversy, but the Church of Scientology have made little comment about its plans.

In 2016, Scientology made a profit in Ireland of €48,803 – they are registered as a company in Ireland, having failed to achieve religious or charitable status.

Scientology has been in Ireland since 1956, when their first office opened in Merrion Square.

ST PATRICK’S DAY | 2018 FESTIVAL BASED ON ‘HOME’

Everyone’s invited to the Paddy party  REBECCA RYAN

‘HOME’ has been announced as this year’s theme for the St Patrick’s Festival.

Taking place from March 15-19, the five-day festival will see thousands of home-grown and international musicians, dancers and storytellers perform.

The artistic programme also includes a unique film commission project, street-theatre, talks, walks, spoken word, literature, music, Irish language, visual art and more.

The vibrant and colourful programme of more

than 30 events will create a world class cultural celebration of Ireland, its people and our national holiday.

The festival is expected to bring in more than €70 million for the Irish economy which Minister for Department of Transport, Tourism & Sport Shane Ross told Dublin Gazette is “phenomenally good for tourism – it’s the most celebrated national day in the world”.

He added: “It is so professional, it’s so well organised, it’s such a tremendous spectacle for the world to see.

“It attracts tourism and

it shows that Ireland is a really modern, vibrant, energetic, peaceful state.”

Speaking at the launch of the festival on Tuesday, Ardmheara Micheal Mac Donncha said: “It is a great honour for me to launch the 2018 national St Patrick’s Festival programme.

“Celebrating Ireland’s national holiday, our capital city is set for five wonderful days of fun and activities for all ages and interests.

“I invite Dubliners and people from across the country to enjoy the events on offer, and for those who will be visiting

from overseas, I extend a cead mile failte.

“You’re sure to have a fantastic time at this year’s festival and leave with lasting memories.”

The Lord Mayor told Dublin Gazette he also thinks the Home theme is great: “Dublin is our home, Ireland is our home, and it’s home not only to people born here, but to many new communities who have made their homes here in recent years.”

Cllr Mac Donncha added the theme has significance to the housing crisis: “It also echoes that we have our major prob-

Ardmheara Micheal Mac Donncha and friends help launch St Patrick’s festival, which this year has the theme of ‘Home’. Picture: Robbie Reynolds

lems – not least, housing. Everyone deserves a home and has a right to a home, so I would see that as important as well.”

Susan Kirby, chief executive St Patrick’s Festival, said this year they want to explore and celebrate what Home means to all of us.

She said: “It is the inspi-

ration for our artistic programme of more than 30 events from talks, walks and literature to street theatre, spoken word and a unique film commission project.

“Together, these reflect the talents and achievements of Irish people on national and world stages, showcasing the skills of

every age and social background.”

More than 100,000 overseas visitors are expected to come to Dublin to watch the festival parade waltz and whirl through the streets of Dublin from noon on March 17th.

To find out more, see www.stpatricksfestival.ie.

6 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 15 February 2018

ARTS Gloriously awful, hilarious new show on the way to Drumcondra

Teachers busy Producer-ing next musical M

EMBERS of the Teacher’s Society of Ireland are ready to give some lessons in laughter with their upcoming production of the classic Mel Brooks musical, The Producers. The teachers are currently busy rehearsing what promises to be a hoot and a half in March, as they bring to life the tale of a scheming shyster, his nervous accountant, and their get-rich plan to stage the world’s worst musical (featuring the legendary showstopper, Springtime For Hitler) and make a killing.

What could possibly go wrong? For tickets for the March show at The Theatre, St Patricks’ College, Drumcondra, see www.eventbrite.ie; for further information on the show, email teachers.ms@gmail.com.

Gotta sing, gotta dance – and gotta rehearse! The teachers are all working hard to make the show a hit.

Scheming producer ‘Max Bialystock’ (above) and his nervous, blankie-snuggling accountant ‘Leo Bloom’ (top) are getting ready to stage a brilliantly awful show

Take some showgirls, ditzy secretaries, little old ladies and scam artists, then add some song and dance – and you have all the ingredients you need for The Teacher’s Society of Ireland next big production, The Producers

15 February 2018 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 7

COURTS | GARDA INVESTIGATIONS INTO CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES SEE NUMBER OF SEIZURES

Rickshaw driver is told to leave Ireland

A RICKSHAW driver caught with more than €4,000 worth of ecstasy tablets has had a prison sentence suspended on condition she leave the country.

Bianca Francisco (21), formerly of The Forge, Railway St, was caught with the drugs in her flat on May 4, 2017.

She was on bail at the time awaiting sentence for a previous offence of holding drugs for sale or supply in November 2016.

Garda Cian Fleming told Dublin Circuit Criminal Court that Francisco’s work as a rickshaw driver was “what drew our attention to her”.

The Brazilian national pleaded guilty to unlawful possession for sale or supply of a controlled substance at

her home last May. Gda Fleming said that during a search of the flat, gardai seized MDMA, mainly made up of ecstasy tablets, with an estimated street value of €4,570. They found lesser amounts of cocaine and other controlled drugs.

Gardai also seized weighing scales in a handbag and a white purse containing a total of €1,060 in various denominations.

Francisco told gardai she was holding the drugs for somebody and said she wasn’t being paid. Gda Fleming said that Francisco was the target of the search in 2017.

Luigi Rea BL, defending, said his client came to Ireland in April 2016 to learn English and began working

as a cleaner but lost that job.

He said she got a job as rickshaw driver but fell in with bad company. Gda Fleming agreed with counsel that he didn’t believe she is still involved with this company.

Mr Rea said she since got work as an au pair but she wanted to return to Brazil.

Ashamed Judge Patrick Quinn accepted Francisco was embarrassed and ashamed by her crimes. He said her involvement probably came out of economic necessity but that was not an excuse.

“A young person in a strange country who meets up with the wrong people can easily get distracted,” he said.

He said it was in her best interests to return to the support of her family. He suspended a 12-month prison sentence on condition that Francisco leave Ireland in the next three months.

Judge Quinn ordered the destruction of the drugs seized and the confiscation of the cash seized.

The court heard that last April, Francisco pleaded guilty to possession for sale or supply of cannabis, cocaine and MDMA. The drugs found on Francisco on November 5, 2016 had a total estimated street value of €1,555.

A Dublin District Court judge ordered her then to carry out 180 hours of community service in lieu of a six-month prison sentence.

CENTRE | FUNDING FOR AUNGIER STREET SERVICE

Tree-mendous boost for youth group with €1,500 artist windfall  RACHEL D’ARCY

AN AUNGIER Street youth group are one of 13 projects around the country to be awarded under the national Arts and Youth scheme.

South Area Youth Ser vice (SAYS) were awarded €1,500 as part of the Artist and Youth Work Residency Scheme.

Based at Aungier Street, SAYS encourages young people to look at trees from a “different perspective” alongside artist Stephanie Troy.

The Arts and Youth scheme is managed by the National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI), with funding from the Arts Council and the Department of Children and Youth Affairs (DCYA).

The scheme aims to support youth organisations that run art projects for younger people in the

The group was just one of 13 projects around the country to receive funding under a national artist and youth work scheme

local community.

Anne O’Gorman of the NYCI said: “We are delighted with the calibre of this year’s successful projects. They demonstrate the quality and variety of ways in which young people are working creatively with each other and in

their local communities”.

“We look forward to working with our funding partners, The Arts Council and DCYA, to resource this fund for the future, ensuring that young people are supported to access high-quality arts experiences in their local communities.”

‘Easily-led’ dad sent to jail for helping pal with €286k drug haul A MAN who was caught preparing more than €286,000 of heroin for street sale as a favour to a friend he met at football has been jailed for three years.

Garda Shona Moran accepted that Robert Reynolds (35), of Orchard Lawns, Ballyfermot, could be described as “easily led” and said the father-of-one told her he had been helping Edward Maher (31), of Croftwood Gardens, Ballyfermot, mix the drugs for street sale.

Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that Maher had been under garda surveillance and this led the investigation to Reynolds’ address, where the two men were found mixing heroin in a garden shed.

Reynolds pleaded guilty to possessing just over 2kg of heroin, worth €286,020, at his home on December 19, 2016.

Maher was jailed for three and

a half years last November for the same offence.

Gda Moran told Maurice Coffey BL, prosecuting, that she and colleagues entered Reynolds’ home and found the two men with large quantities of brown powder and mixing agents in the back shed.

Gardai also discovered a weighing scales, blender and gloves on the scene.

Reynolds told officers that he was not a heroin addict, but smoked €50 cannabis a month and had been asked to get involved with the drug preparation as a favour.

Gda Moran agreed with Pauline Walley SC, defending, that her client co-operated fully and that he “doesn’t possess great insight and appears to be easily led”.

Judge Nolan accepted that Reynolds was “not the most streetwise” but said he knew what he had been doing with the drugs.

8 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 15 February 2018

FASTNews

Dublin’s runaway rents are now almost €400 more than even at the height of the Celtic Tiger – Daft.ie THE latest rent report by Daft.ie has revealed that within Dublin city centre, rents are now almost €400 above the Celtic Tiger average.

In the last quarter of 2017 alone, Daft.ie reports that the asking prices for rent nationwide rose by 2.4% to a national average of €1,227 per month.

This means that, on average, there has been a 10.4% rise on rents across the country on an annual basis.

In Dublin, rents are now 26% high-

He’s Cian to rule with Junk Kouture CIAN Newman looked ready to rule the fashion world as he unveiled his C.Dat King creation at this year’s reveal of the BOI Junk Kouture regional finalists.

Cian, a fifth-year student from St

Aidan’s CBS Whitehall, put his creation together in the spirit of Junk Kouture – creating new style from old, recycled materials and junk, making something fashionable and fun from discarded things.

For the full list of those who’ve made it through to the regional finals for Bank of Ireland Junk Kouture 2018, see https://www. facebook.com/BOIstudents.

Picture: Julien Behal

Training course to help families of people with depression MENTAL health charity Aware has announced that it will be providing a training course for friends and family of those struggling with depression.

er than they were within the Celtic Tiger era.

Daft.ie report that rents in all four county areas of the capital are now up to €4,500 higher than at the previous peak, in 2008.

Daft.ie lists north Dublin city, central Dublin city, south Dublin city and south Dublin county as the most expensive places to rent in Ireland.

Rents in these areas range from €1,709 in the north of the city, to €1,995 in South Dublin.

Set to take place over four weeks, the course aims to help relatives and friends of those dealing with mental illness to identify symptoms and communication skills.

Those taking part will also be able to design and implement a tailored support plan to the individual in their life that is experiencing

depression or bipolar disorder.

It will take place weekly from 7:30pm until 9pm, in the Carmelite Church at Aungier Street, beginning on Tuesday, February 20 and ending on Tuesday, March 13.

A €30 refundable booking fee is needed to secure a place on the programme.

15 February 2018 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 9

COURTS | JAIL AVOIDED

Dad conned credit unions to help pay off gambling debts A FATHER of two who used a forged bank statement to secure a loan from a credit union, claiming he needed to buy a wheelchair for his disabled daughter, has been given a fully suspended sentence of two and a half years.

Gareth White (29) of Plunkett Green, Finglas West, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to five counts of using a false instrument to secure loans from various credit unions on dates in 2016.

He also pleaded guilty to using a false instrument to buy seven phones on behalf of a non-existent business from Three Ireland on August 13, 2015.

Passing sentence, Judge Karen O’Connor said White had a serious gambling addiction which he appeared to be trying to address.

She said he had been caught “somewhat redhanded” regarding the phone theft operation, which she said “was not the work of a criminal genius” although it had been premeditated.

Judge O’Connor said that White had displayed “a degree of desperation” in relation to the loans he sought from credit unions, and had aroused suspicion by making multiple calls to see when the loans would be available.

She sentenced him to two and a half years in prison, but suspended it on condition that he engage with Probation Services for 12 months.

White was also ordered to abstain from gambling, stay away from bookmakers and other gambling establishments, and to engage with Gamblers’ Anonymous.

Garda Noel Whelan told Derek Cooney BL, prosecuting, that gardai were alerted to the fraud

when the manager of one of the credit unions contacted them after noticing that the address on the AIB Bank statement provided by White did not exist.

White also used forged bank statements to apply for loans at Phibsborough Credit Union, Larkfield Credit Union in Santry, Whitehall Credit Union and Core Credit Union in Dalkey, the court heard.

Gda Whelan said that White claimed the loans were to buy a new wheelchair for his disabled daughter and to purchase a headstone for his mother’s grave.

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

‘Judge O’Connor said White had aroused suspicion by making multiple calls to see when the loans would be available’ --------------------------

“The reality is they were needed to pay his gambling debts,” Gda Whelan said.

The court heard €908 was still owed in outstanding loans to Rathfarnham and Dalkey Credit Unions.

Gda Whelan said White used false bank statements, a false driving licence and a false company registration certificate to purchase seven Samsung phones and one iPhone from Three Ireland on August 13, 2015.

A fraud officer in Three Ireland became suspicious and alerted gardai, who travelled to an address in Finglas, where they intercepted White as he arrived to collect the phones.

The phones were valued at more than €4,169.

RINGSEND | EXTRA 400,000 PEOPLE ARE EXPECTED TO BE SERVED

€80m redevelopment for wastewater plant  REBECCA RYAN

IRISH water has started an €80 million upgrade to its Ringsend wastewater treatment plant.

It is expected that an extra 400,000 people will be served by the plant after its redevelopment.

Wastewater from Dublin has been treated in Ringsend since 1906. It is the largest wastewater treatment plant in Ireland, and services more than 40% of the national population.

Currently, the plant serves the Greater Dublin Area including Dalkey, Rathcoole, Clondalkin, Blanchardstown/Mulhuddart, Dublin Airport, Howth and the city centre, as well as parts of Meath such as Dunboyne, Clonee and Ashbourne.

The upgrade will take

Upgrade: The works are expected to help meet the city’s needs in the coming years

approximately two years to construct and will support planned housing and economic growth in the Dublin region.

It will also improve the quality of the treated wastewater discharged to the Liffey estuary.

This capacity upgrade is one part of an overall investment of €400 million by Irish Water in the Ringsend wastewater treatment plant upgrade project.

Subject to planning permission, the overall upgrade project will enable full treatment of wastewater for the equivalent of 2.4 million people, meeting all foreseeable development needs to at least 2025.

The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Micheal Mac-

Donncha, said it is important that Dublin can sustain growth: “With the CSO predicting the population of the Greater Dublin Area to grow by 1% per year over the next ten to 15 years, it is vital our infrastructure keeps up with that growth.

“This investment will enable future housing and commercial development and help ensure Dublin is able to sustain continued growth.”

Minister for Housing, Planning and Local Government, Eoghan Murphy, welcomed the commencement of the upgrade, saying: “This is a hugely important and modernising step for our national

and regional wastewater infrastructure.

“This investment is preparing our capital city for future growth. It will ensure that the highest treatment standards are being deployed and utilised in Dublin, that we are preparing for future housing, population and economic growth and that we meet the stringent requirements of the EU’s wastewater treatment directives.”

Last December, Irish Water awarded the capacity upgrade contract to Veolia Water Ireland Ltd & PJ Hegarty & Sons DC Joint Venture for the construction of this phase of the upgrade.

10 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 15 February 2018

EVENTS No matter what’s happening in your area, Dublin Gazette’s

THE ASDFDA Xxx yyll xxyyl zxyxzz zz x xxylyx. Xxx Aadsf fdasf asdf dsaf dsfasf dasf dsaf dfsf dsaf dsaf dsafyyll xxyyl zxyxzz zz x xxylyx.

Picture: Xxxxx Zzzzzz

Nicky Byrne

Roz Flanagan John McKibbin and Jonothan Sultan

Pictures: Brian McEvoy Georgina

Byrne

Sonya Valadi and Gerald Kean

Sonja Mohlich

Pauric Flanagan and Maguerita Flanagan

Happy to help CARI T

he great and the good – and the fabulously dressed, darling – came out in force for a fundraising ball at the The Radisson Blu Hotel, Golden Lane recently.

All kinds of well-known faces from across Dublin and Irish society turned out for the The CARI Red Ball, with eve-

ryone happy to help support CARI’s work in providing therapy and support for children affected by child sexual abuse.

The CARI ball is always a popular fundraiser for the charity, with people from all walks of life happy to throw on their glad rags and support the ball. As ever,

the celebrities and attendees proved very willing to help, and were all conscious of playing their part in supporting the charity’s work.

MC Alan Hughes was a reliable old hand at keeping everything moving along, with the night hailed as a great success.

15 February 2018 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 11

far-ranging photographers have all the events and angles covered

Yes, it’s ruff work, but ...

MAGGIE looked particularly pleased with herself after taking Miriam Cronin, from Sutton, on some walkies with a difference recently.

The canny canine and her minder both ended up at a casting call for dogs, with the producers of Legally Blonde on the hunt for the paw-fect pooch to play Rufus in the upcoming musical at Bord Gais Energy Theatre.

Whether she wins the role or not, Maggie at least made it into the Gazette – so no wonder she looks so pleased ... Picture: Brian McEvoy

S

TUDENTS from across the northside stepped forward for some special education awards recently when they were presented with memorial scholarship awards at DCU. A ceremony at the Helix at DCU saw the group presented with awards honouring former Taoiseach Charles J Haughey, and other notable figures in Irish and educational life.

Paying tribute to their successes in obtaining the scholarships, Nathalie Walker, chief executive of DCU Educational Trust said: “This year we have awarded scholarships to 17 students whose talent and dedication are a tribute to those we remember today.

“Charles Haughey, Nicola Radford, Paddy J Wright and TJ O’Driscoll shone brightly in her own lives and made a significant mark on Irish society so it is fitting that their legacies will be honoured and live on in the bright and gifted northside students here today.”

Pictures: Daire Hall

1

AWARDS AT DCU 1. Mary Shine Thompson, DCU Educational Trust Council of Trustees and Professor Brian MacCraith, president, DCU present Leo Ward with his scholarship

2

2. Aoife Farrell 3. Cassie Hunt 4. Farhat Omar 5. Sean Trimble

3

5

4

6. Danielle Fitzpatrick

6

GAZETTE

12 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15 February 2018

DUBLINBUSINESS

ENTERPRISE | DEPARTMENT TRYING TO ENCOURAGE GREATER PARTICIPATION RATES

Engaging SMEs with the public procurement process PAT Breen – Minister of State for Trade, Employment, Business, EU Digital Single Market and Data Protection – has welcomed the recent launch by Minister of State Patrick O’Donovan of a new range of materials from the Office of Government

Procurement (OGP) aiming to promote SME participation in the public procurement process.

The initiative, developed in response to industry feedback, includes a series of introductory breakfast briefings, organised by InterTradeIreland, and

a range of videos explaining the procurement process.

The innovation in providing additional encouragement to Irish businesses, comes at the suggestion of an SME advisory group chaired by Minister O’Donovan.

The group, containing representatives from the public sector and business representative bodies, has been working to further promote SME participation in the public procurement process.

Welcoming the initiative, Minister

Breen said: “I am delighted that the OGP, with the support of this department and its agencies and key business representative bodies, has developed a suite of materials to make the public procurement process for SMEs clearer.”

Minister of State for Mental Health Jim Daly (centre) Member First Credit Union’s school liaison officer, Marie Kane, and chief marketing officer Darren O’Reilly

EDUCATION | TRAINING FOR STUDENTS

Initiative is a real credit MEMBER First Credit Union, in partnership with UnPlug, have launched a new digital education initiative with Minister of State Jim Daly, targeting ten primary schools in North Dublin.

Designed to raise awareness of the impact that technology and social media have on the lives of young people, and to promote positive tech habits for children in the school setting, the initiative aims to provide them with the skills and coping strategies to have a more balanced relationship with technology and social media.

Its workshops are designed to be fun, evidence-based and focused on practical steps for positive change.

The initiative is being uniquely delivered in two workshops in each school.

One workshop is delivered to primary school children in 5th and 6th class, but the other is for their parents and guardians.

Darren O’Reilly, chief marketing officer at Member First Credit Union, said: “We want young people to manage their technology and empower them with digital literacy skills.”

Echoing his words, Member First Credit Union’s chief executive, Fiona Cunningham, said: “Modern life and the ‘always-on’ mentality is stressful and can impact on young people’s wellbeing, so we hope to see the programme adopted

across the local communities we serve in North Dublin.”

As one of the largest community-based credit unions in the country, ser ving communities across north Dublin, Member First Credit Union has recently rebranded as a next-generation credit union.

As a technically capable, remotely accessible credit union with a visible local presence, Member First Credit Union sees the withdrawal of banks from the main streets as an opportunity.

By filling the void and offering its services across multiple platforms, it aims to become the numberone loan provider in north Dublin.

15 February 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13

STYLE P22

TRAVEL P25

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

MARVELLOUS MARTIN IS A BRAINY BOY DUBLIN Gazette has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs.

Martin is a handsome two-year-old German Shepard that’s not just a pretty face, as he has proven himself to be a very bright spark with brains to burn.

He still requires some additional training, but with his clever brain and love for food this should be an easy task.

With his love for people, he’s looking to be the only dog in an adult-only home so that he can get the attention he deserves, but his potential adopters will need to be used to owning a dog of his size, and he is looking for someone that will be home during the day.

If you think you can offer Martin a loving home, contact Dogs Trust at 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 over on Twitter @ DogsTrust_IE.



GAZETTE

DIARY P14

A FUN FAMILY TREAT FOR MID-TERMS

It’s Butlers to the rescue to help entertain ‘chocaholics’ WITH midterm breaks looming, lots of parents will be scrambling for activities to keep the kiddies occupied.

The Butlers Chocolate Experience could be a pretty sweet solution to help fill some time, as well as proving a perfect day out for chocolate lovers of all ages.

On arrival at the centre at Clonshaugh Business Park, close to the M50/M1

junction (or a hop away from the No 27 bus route), visitors will dress like a real-life Butlers chocolatier and gather to watch a chocolate movie, learning about the fascinating origins of the cocoa bean and the history of Butlers, accompanied by delicious chocolate treats.

With an expert guide in tow, the budding chocolatiers will explore the interactive museum and step

out on the Chocolate Gallery to see the Butlers factory, savouring the sweet aroma as they discover the secrets of how Butlers Chocolates are created.

Finally, everyone gets to unleash their inner chocolatier in the Chocolate Experience room, where they can decorate their own chocolate masterpiece to bring home as a treasured souvenir (or as a tasty treat after they’ve fin-

ished admiring their own handiwork).

The Butlers Chocolate Experience entry must be booked in advance, priced €13.50 per person, with tours running daily at 10am, noon and 3.30pm, Monday to Saturday (subject to change and availability) You can save 5% by booking online at www. butlerschocolates.com/ book, or call 01 671 0599.

Steady, steady ... applying the finishing tasty touch

14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15 February 2018

GAZETTE

DUBLINLIFE Karen gets her teeth stuck into children’s oral hygiene initiative

DIARY

CAMPAIGN: RAISING AWARENESS OF DENTAL HEALTH

TV broadcaster Karen Koster was joined by Kate O’Riordan (age 2) to launch Dental Care Ireland’s “First Dental Visit” campaign, which aims to raise awareness about the importance of establishing a good dental health routine from an early age.

Throughout the month of March, Dental Care Ireland’s Dublin practices in Knocklyon, Cabinteely and Swords will be offering a free first dental visit to all patients under five.

Speaking at the launch, Karen said: “We all know about teething and tooth fairies when it comes to our children’s dental health, but otherwise I think there can be a tendency to wait until a problem arises before

seeking advice.

“At the baby and toddler stage in particular, it is so helpful to speak to a dentist and find out what you should or shouldn’t be doing to prevent potential issues from the outset.”

MACBETH TO TAKE TO THE BORD GAIS STAGE SHAKESPEARE’S legendary Macbeth will take to the Bord Gais stage for a limited run next week.

The fear-filled tragedy will run for six shows, in what is promised to be a ‘kinetic and blood-thirsty’ production.

Macbeth revolves around a murderous individual, his mind clouded by demons as his lust for power ignites a passion

within him to seize the throne.

The show will run from February 20 until 24.

Tickets are on sale now from bordgaisenergytheatre.ie, with prices from €15 to €30.

AN AMAZING COLLECTION OF ART THE Bernard Shaw, renowned as a legendary pub and flea market, will be hosting The Shaw Art Market on February 17.

The art market will take place as part of the bimonthly flea market.

A hipster haven on the border of the city and Rathmines, a collection of art will be available from stall holders for purchase.

Running two markers a

month, the Bernard Shaw hold a vintage and flea market on the first Saturday of each month.

For more information, check out thebernardshaw.com/flea.

COMPLEX TO HOST WORLD PREMIERE THE Complex will host the world premiere of Anthony Goulding’s new play F.A.T. D.A.D. from Thursday, February 15 to Sunday, February 25.

The play tells the story of the profound impact a teacher and hunger striker had on his pupils in the Smithfield area during the 1980s and 1990s.

Inspired by true events FA.T. D.A.D., an acronym for the six counties under British rule, depicts the

TV broadcaster and mum Karen Koster is pictured with Kate O’Riordan (age 2) at the launch of Dental Care Ireland’s ‘First Dental Visit’ campaign.

Picture: JULIEN BEHAL PHOTOGRAPHY

life of a teacher, Fiachra Martin.

His classroom acts as a symbol of a divided Ireland and the conflicting lives of his students.

Mr Martin goes on hunger strike with Bobby Sands, and while his beliefs deepen, he finds himself unemployed and homeless.

His bond with his former students however holds strong.

Tickets for the show can be purchased online at a cost of €18 / €15 concession / €12 for groups of 10 or more at www.tickets. ie or by emailing bernadette@thecomplex.ie.

ROMEO AND JULIET COMES TO DUNDRUM MILL Productions will

bring their production of William Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet to the Dundrum stage next week Directed by Geoff O’Keeffe this abridged version of the play is the ideal opportunity for all Junior Cert students to see one of Shakespeare’s most popular tragedies performed.

The play stars Tom Moran, Laura O’Leary, Neill Fleming, Jennifer Laverty, Matthew O’Brien, Paul Eliott, Claire O’Donovan, Jack Mullarkey The play lasts one hour and 30 minutes with tickets priced at €12.50 per student (1 Teacher per 20 goes free) For bookings please see www.milltheatre.ie / ph.

01-2969340.

EVENT BOASTS DIVERSE LINEUP FOLLOWING a successful debut in 2017, the innovative SPECTRUM festival will return this coming March for a second year.

S PE C T RU M 2 018 , presented by IMC, is fuelled by a diverse programme of music, encompassing jazz and creative music.

From “free” jazz to electro-folk, the festival will take place across three Dublin venues – The Grand Social, the Fumbally Stables and DBD (under The Mess) - from March 9 until 11.

Tickets are priced from €16, and are on sale from improvisedmusic.ie now.

15 February 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15

ARTS: CLASSIC 1950S PLAY SEES IMAGINATIVE REBOOT

This take on Anger should delight fans  JORDAN UPSHAW YOUNG Irish director Annabelle Comyn has breathed new life into the 1950s John Osborne classic, Look Back in Anger.

The production debuted at the Gate Theatre on February 7 and features a stellar cast who share an easy chemistry.

Ian Toner is Jimmy Porter, the original “angry young man” of theatre.

Tooner brings just enough charm to offset his character’s self-aggrandising speeches and malice.

As Alison Porter, Clare Dunne gives a believable performance as a victim of spousal abuse while bringing a refreshing new strength to the role.

Lloyd Cooney and Vanessa Emme round off Cliff and Helena, the couple’s respective best friends.

Cooney brings a surprising yet welcome amount of likability and comic relief to the serious subject matter, while Emme successfully disrupts the entire plot when she arrives on the scene.

However, Comyn’s fresh reinterpretation of the source material is what stands out most. Even those familiar with the

play will be surprised by this production.

Through well-chosen directorial decisions, Comyn gives the female characters an agency they were previously denied.

Nearly all of the stage directions from the script are narrated by whichever actor happens to be offstage. This provides a sense of Osborne’s influence; the audience can almost see him using his words to yank the characters around, often against their will.

Beyond that, the characters sometimes resist their orders, waiting for them to be repeated before complying. Sometimes they ignore them completely.

However, the young female director wrests power from the author and puts it in the hands of the female characters instead.

Comy n has pulled off the daunting feat of changing the narrative without changing the script and staying faithful to Osborne’s story while making it her own.

Look Back in Anger runs at the Gate until March 24. Tickets can be bought at www.gatetheatre.ie, or directly at its box office on 01 874 4045.

The women at the heart of this take on the well-worn play successfully bring it in a bold new direction

GAZETTE

FEATURE

16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15 February 2018

EVENTS No matter what’s happening around the city, The Gazette’s

Nadia Forde, Brian Dowling and Pippa O’Connor

Lisa and Keith Duffy. Pictures: Brian McEvoy Photography

Having a ball at a fundraising event P

IPPA O’Connor Ormond welcomed a host of famous faces for the inaugural Blossom Tree Ball in aid of Temple Street Hospital at The K Club in Straffan, County Kildare.

Pippa’s husband Brian Ormond was the MC for the evening with Barry Murphy on hand to conduct the auction and Brian Dowling did an impromptu blind date ahead of St Valentine’s Day. The event raised a huge amount of money to help purchase vital pieces of equipment for the children’s hospital, and many well-known faces stepped out to support the cause.

Jenny Nolan, Colin O’Shea and Rachel O’Shea

15 February 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17

far-ranging photographers have all the events and angles covered

Ellen Jones and Conrad Jones

John and Emma O’Sullivan

Sinead Beggan and Julie Husman

Oonagh and Joanne O’Hagan

Laura Jayne Halton, Umit Kutluk and Laura Mullet

Carol Byrne

GAZETTE

18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15 February 2018

DUBLINLIFE

PUZZLE PAGE SUDOKU

CODEWORDS EASY

TOUGH

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTIONS

HOW TO SOLVE

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

WORD SEARCH

Codewords are like crossword puzzles - but have no clues!

Instead, every letter of the alphabet has been replaced by a number, the same number representing the same letter throughout the puzzle.

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.

SCRIBBLE BOX

DON’T FORGET TO CHECK BACK NEXT WEEK FOR THE SOLUTIONS TO THIS WEEK’S PUZZLES

LAST WEEK’S SOLUTION

FIND THE FOLLOWING HIDDEN WORDS abode

location

accost

lodging

direct

pad

domicile

place

dwelling

speak to

greet

venue

hail

whereabouts

hold forth house lecture locale

15 February 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19

How could I become more confident, like you always are?

I HAVE been a big fan of yours since you appeared on X-Factor and I love your sense of positivity and zest for life.

I wish I had your confidence, and I wonder have you always been so outgoing, or is it the result of your success on X-Factor?

Martin, Skerries

MARY SAYS: I’M A firm believer that life is all about choices and that we all have to make choices in our lives.

Sometimes the choices are straightforward and sometimes they are tough and sometimes, in hindsight, the choices we make might not be the best choices – but remember we all make mistakes in life, the trick is to learn from our mistakes.

One of the biggest choices I had to make in my life was entering the X-Factor.

Believe you me, I had little or no self-confidence before I chose to enter.

The truth is, my family and friends had to practically drag me to the auditions and push me out in front of the judges for that initial audition!

However, having overcome that fear, and having made the choice to enter, my confidence grew over the weeks that followed and I think that showed in my performances in those weeks.

Conf idence breeds confidence; once you can overcome that initial fear you will be surprised how quickly confidence can grow.

Take a deep breath and go for it – what do you have to lose?

My panic attacks are ruining my life – should I tell my friends the truth?

I HAVE agoraphobia and suffer from anxiety and panic attacks, meaning that it’s very difficult and almost impossible for me to go out.

GAZETTE

ADVICE I keep making excuses to my friends not to go out with them, and I’m afraid they’ll think I’m a bit odd.

So far I’ve kept it a secret from even my closest friends, and only my husband knows the truth. I’ve given him strict instructions not to tell anyone about this!

Do you think I’m right to keep it secret, or should I confide in my cl o s e s t f r i e n d s ?

I’m afraid they won’t understand, but it is ruining my life.

Stephanie, Lucan

MARY SAYS: I CAN empathise with your situation, having suffered similar symptoms at different periods during my life.

Firstly, I can understand you wanting to keep this a secret. None of us wants to feel odd or to admit to something that might cause people to look at us in a negative light.

Confiding in your husband is a brave thing to do, but I suspect he will feel helpless in this situation.

Can I reassure you that you are not alone. Tens of thousands of men and women will suffer the same symptoms at some stage in their lives.

More than likely the symptoms will have been triggered by some incident or incidents in your life that you may not be able to relate to.

It’s time to be brave and to face your fears. Please confide in your GP; they will understand and will no doubt refer you for specialist counselling to tease out the root cause of your fears.

Once you face your fears they will lose their power over you, and you will be able to return to a happy life with your loving husband and friends. Trust me, and be brave.

I’ve been doing great with my weight loss – but how can I stick to my plan?

I HAD my last child at

Is there something on your mind? Mary Byrne is delighted to offer her advice to Dublin Gazette readers; email her today at marybyrne@dublingazette.com 37, and he’s a real bundle of joy! However, I’ve piled on the weight since and I decided to follow you on Operation Transformation.

I was doing really well and was sticking to the plan, but I’ve started to slip.

My greatest weakness is that I’m ‘a picker’, even straight after my dinner. I love to have a biscuit or two with a cup of tea, and then I

regret it immediately!

What advice could you give me to help overcome this and get back on track?

Joan, Finglas

MARY SAYS: OPERATION Transformation was one of the biggest

challenges of my life.

I had to face some of my biggest fears and make some life-changing decisions and break some of the habits that I had learned over a lifetime.

This takes a lot of selfdiscipline and, from experience, your priorities af ter hav-

ing a child are with the baby and not with yourself.

First of all – well done in sticking to the plan; this shows you do have the self discipline!

As for slipping, well, I think we all like to treat ourselves, as a little reward, from time to time and let me reassure you there is nothing wrong with that.

Like you, I’m a picker as well. My trick is to have something to hand to pick on that is relatively healthy.

I stopped buying the chocolate and the biscuits and made sure I had sliced fruit (apples, strawberries, grapes) or vegetables (celery

or sliced carrots) to hand to nibble on.

These are delicious with one of the low-fat dips you can pick up in the supermarket.

In this way you can feel both rewarded and healthy.

You’re doing so well to stay on track, particularly with the demands of a new baby, so don’t be too hard on yourself.

The odd slip is allowed – just don’t make a habit of it!

REMINDER Mary needs you to contact her by noon on Monday, so don’t delay – send your problem to Dear Mary at Dublin Gazette today!

15 February 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21

DUBLINLIFE

MUSIC

LET’S GO OUT MUSIC

GAZETTE

GAZETTE

20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15 February 2018

O Emperor return Ready, Eddi, go!

Waterford group’s new single, Make It Rain, may be a

crowning glory

PICKWEEK OF THE

FEBRUARY 16 (Friday) Eddi Reader @ The Pavillions Theatre, €22 The former Fairground Attraction vocalist has never quite reached the same heights as her early days solo. That’s through no fault of the songwriting: if anything she’s better now than in the vocalled love ditty, Perfect, that helped to make her name.

BEST OF THE REST  JAMES HENDICOTT RETURNING to the scene after a break of a couple of years, O Emperor leave behind their hang-ups, delving into a free-spirited, avant garde, industryignoring new phase.

The Waterford act are back, but not as you know them...

When they burst onto the Irish music scene with major-label debut Hither Thither, O Emperor were a band known for their meticulous attention to detail.

They wrote beautiful, haunting indie-pop songs that meandered wonderfully, every note carefully adjusted in agonised-over studio recordings.

That startling attention to detail was a blessing and a curse: at times a constraint on the release of the band’s music, but creating a distinctive and much-loved sound that propelled them to national attention.

In hindsight, frontman Paul Savage admits: “We needed to let that perfec-

The lads in O Emperor admit they’re slow at getting things done, preferring to wait until the music is right

tionism go and accept that at a certain point what we’ve done is actually fine.

“We used to obsess over things like the exact level of reverb. Looking back, I don’t think other people really notice or care about things like that.”

A f ter a couple of years away, O Emperor returned having done a

full 180. New single, Make It Rain, is the first offering from an as yet untitled new album, and the first of a series of pre-album singles set to come out over the course of a year.

The band also completed their live return with first show in some time last week at Cork’s Quarter Block Party.

Savage says: “We did most of the recording two years ago, but we’ve only got to mixing now. We’re very bad at taking our time with things.

“We got a notion to go ahead with it now, though, so we’ve gone ahead.

We’ve gone really rough and ready with stuff. It’s actually written live; it’s just live jams.

“We recorded two to three hours of us jamming and picked out bits we liked, and chopped up and constructed some bits in the edit. Then we added the vocals later, but even the vocals were kind of made up on the spot in some cases.

“It’s inf luenced by things like Sun Ra, Can, and krautrock stuff, and really concentrates on atmosphere. It can actually be quite difficult to reproduce live, and it’s really radically different to anything we’ve done before.

Evolved “It’s already evolved quite a lot from the record in rehearsal and in the live

show, as it’s very difficult to actually reproduce what you did before. There are clashed notes, odd chords, stuff like that.

“We’re trying to base the live show in a framework and jam around that,” he continues, “which can be hard to do, especially where you’re nervous. It’s easy to mess up on the spot, but it’s really exciting to do.”

In the early days, O Emperor were signed to Universal, and looked like a serious prospect for the kind of overblown music industry success that the likes of Hozier and Walking On Cars went on to achieve.

The difficulty, as Savage recalls it, was that even back then the band weren’t particularly suited to radioplay. Even when second album Vitreous was the hot favourite for the 2013 Choice Music Prize (Ireland’s national music award, eventually won by Villagers, with Awayland), O Emperor were never quite a household name.

Savage says: “Being with

Universal was a long time ago, and important in the development of the band.

It was short-lived but it taught us what we needed to know about the music industry and how to exist within it.

“We weren’t as avant garde back then, but we were never the type for daytime radio. Daytime radio is very limited, unfortunately, and it doesn’t suit 99% of Irish bands.

“It would be difficult if you really wanted to pursue things full time, but we’ve never really been at that level.”

These days, it’s more about having fun, though it’s easy to get the sense that the more relaxed approach might bring about the band’s very best days.

Savage sees the falseness and tepidness of the music industry for what it is, and prefers the more stress-free approach the band are taking now.

He says: “We’re just enjoying playing, enjoying making music. We’ve played in Germany and the UK before, and I hope

we’ll be able to do that again, but it’s different doing it for the enjoyment.

Stressful “We found the PR stuff to be a lot of work, and quite stressful, especially when you’re spending money and feeling like you should be getting better results; that it’s not really helping you that much.

“There’s an obsession with things being new, and you end up doing things like launches for international tours that are fictitious, really, as everything that’s online is available everywhere already, so you’re not really doing anything new. But from a PR point of view you need a ‘new release’.

“We’re less and less interested in stuff like that, and far more focused on the music this time. If people discover our music in four years’ time and listen to it then, that’s great.

That’s a nice thing.”

O Emperor make their Dublin return in playing the Bello Bar on February 17. Single, Make It Rain, is out now.

FEBRUARY 15 (Thursday) Jake Bugg @ Whelan’s, €28 Brit-pop style vocalist Jake Bugg might have an air of 90s throwback, but when he gets pounding on that guitar he hammers through the fast-flowing melodies and hooky riffs.

Get a close-up on this rare small-venue acoustic tour.

Finbar Furey @ Vicar Street, €36.50 Wild Beasts @ Olympia Theatre, €28.50 FEBRUARY 16 (Friday) Loney Dear @ The Workman’s Club, €16 Sharon Shannon @ Draiocht, €20 Fehdah @ The Sugar Club €10 Alestorm @Tivoli Theatre, €25 Anna Mitchell + Patrick Freeman @ Whelan’s Upstairs, €12 FEBRUARY 17 (Saturday) X Factor Live @ 3 Arena, €46 Donal Dineen @ Hang Hai My Tribe Your Tribe + Cat Turner @ Whelan’s Upstairs (late show), free

Clara Rose @ The Underground, €10 The Kerbs @ MB Slattery’s, €8 FEBRUARY 18 (Sunday) Smokie @ Vicar Street, €36.50 Call Girl @ Toner’s, €6 Malojian @ Whelan’s, €13 FEBRUARY 19 (Monday) Galantis @ Olympia Theatre, €28 FEBRUARY 20 (Tuesday) Wiley @ Olympia Theatre, €26 One of the men at the absolute heart of the current thriving UK Grime scene, Wiley is a bonafide superstar set for big, big things. This isn’t quite in at the ground floor, but you won’t see him somewhere this small again in a hurry.

T he Ruby Sessions @ Doyle’s, €6 FEBRUARY 21 (Wednesday) Christian Loffler @ Sugar Club, €12.50 Paradise Lose @ Tivoli Theatre, €25 Katie Gallagher @ Cat and Cage, €5

22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15 February 2018

DUBLINLIFE Dune Chorizo €95

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This dry-touch formula is incredibly light, with an invisible no-streaks finish and a clean skin sensation leaving no white marks.

FOR HIM River Islan d B

lack le watch ather

WARMER… IT’S GETTING

HERE COMES THE

SUN?

River Island Bright blue Jimmy tapered leg jeans €55

River Island Stone wool blend overcoat €120

nds Isla r e Riv Round r Clea lasses g Sun €22 B G P

WINTER is (hopefully) almost over and Spring is just around the corner. As the weather gets warmer and we spend just a bit more time outside, it’s important to make sure your skin is protected from the sun’s rays. La Roche Posay have a wide range of sun products to keep you protected and moisturised. After all, a well-dressed man should have healthy, happy skin, too! La Roche-Posay is available in pharmacies nationwide.

My UV Patch Users scan the patch using the My UV Patch mobile app, which analyses the varying photosensitive dyes squares to determine the UVA and UVB exposure level. Through a smart algorithm factoring in the user’s personal data - phototype, skin type, location and weather data the app generates essential information on what behaviours to adopt and what protection to apply.

Cicaplast Levres (7.5ml RRP €6.50) A protective and replenishing treatment in a custom-tailored texture especially for lips. Cicaplast lips is a replenishing lip balm that creates a protective layer on lips to immediately fill cracks and prevent them from reoccurring.

€40

River Island Black leather belt

€16

River Island Black gingham button-down shirt €33

Dune Patch in black €145

15 February 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23

GAZETTE

STYLE

EASING INTO SPRING

and

Celebrate stripes in any which direction. The Spring/ Summer 18 Collection from River Island

 Jessica Maile, Style Editor

Muted colours in relaxed styles for warmer weather.

The Spring/ Summer 18 Collection from River Island

Ahhhhhh, spring... That time of year when you have no idea what to wear because the weather is so changable. It’s not unheard of to go through all four seasons in one day.

Transitioning your wardrobe is easy if you just switch it up to lighter fabrics and lighter colours until River Island you work cream your way to Headquarters summer’s stamp baseball more relaxed styles. cap €17 Original Penguin T-Shirt €45

egas €75 don Fabr

Dune Lon

24 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15 February 2018

COMMERCIAL FEATURE

GIVEAWAY

EZ’s Melissa Casserly presents Noirin Ui Ghoill with her €2,000 voucher

A helping hand for a golden moment ... Lisa Dundon is presented with her €2,500 voucher by Lisa Halley, EZ Living Furniture

PRIZES: LEADING FURNITURE RETAILER ANNOUNCES THE OVERALL WINNER, RUNNERS-UP IN GIANT GIVEAWAY

Tipp-top triumph for one lucky customer in EZ Living’s €8,000 Golden Ticket contest THE EZ Living Furniture Biggest Sale Ever ended on a high last week with customer Lisa Dundon from Tipperary scooping the €2,500 prize as part of the €8,000 Golden Ticket giveaway.

The overall Golden Ticket winner was chosen in the Clonmel, Tip-

perary Store. Lisa was awarded the €2,500 prize as part of the EZ Living Golden Ticket competition, in conjunction with the final week of the leading furniture retailer’s Biggest Sale Ever.

For the entire month of January, EZ Living Fur-

niture offered customers the chance to win their furniture for free – with more than €8,000 in prizes given away.

All customers had to do was simply make a purchase during the Biggest Sale Ever in-store or online to be in with a chance of winning their

furniture or accessories for free in the weekly draws.

As well as receiving €50 vouchers, the winners from each store were entered into a draw to win a grand prize from €500 to €2,500 in EZ Living Furniture vouchers every week.

EZ’s Anthony Leneghan presents Ruth

EZ’s Marius presents Bobby Luiz with

Brehany with her €1,000 voucher

his €500 voucher

EZ’s Niall McMahon presents Sebastian Billioud with his €1,500 voucher

15 February 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 25

TRAVEL

GAZETTE

DUBLINLIFE TravelExtra How to keep up with the Head East for the Kardashian – by using holiday of a lifetime an SUV to zip around LA  SYLVIA POWNALL THE number of people choosing to spend their holidays in LA is rising.

Data from Rentalcars. com shows holidaymakers are flocking to the City of Angels to explore all the top celebrity haunts – and they want the perfect car to give them the all-American experience.

Episodes of hit reality show Keeping Up With the Kardashians often show Kim and her clan whizzing around LA in their SUV cars, and it seems Irish car renters want a slice of the action.

Research shows 42% choose to hire SUV trucks such as range rovers and jeeps, when they’re in LA, compared with just 8% in other locations.

Hiring an SUV or convertible is one way you can holiday like a Kardashian in LA, but there are a number of stops you can make on the way...

1. Carousel Restaurant – Hollywood The Kardashian sisters regularly celebrate their Armenian heritage at this old-school Middle Eastern joint. “We go once a month, and it reminds us of our dad because he used to take us here once a week for dinner,” Khloe said in an interview with Food and Wine magazine.

2. Hansen Cakes Anyone who follows the KardashianJenner sisters on Instagram knows no birthday

party is complete without a cake from Hansen Cakes. The bakery designs ornate celebration cakes for all the sisters’ big events.

3. Barry’s Bootcamp Rumour has it that Kim and Kanye head to Barry’s Bootcamp for couples’ training sessions.

According to reports, the pair have been seen sweating away in the 6:30am class, so if you really want to holiday like a Kardashian, you need to be up early!

Thai’s the limit for an unforgettable break Feel like you’ve wandering into a Hollywood set as you explore some of Petchaburi’s charms

4. Bel Bambini North and Saint are the trendiest kids in celebland, and Kim has been spotted on a number of occasions shopping at this bespoke kids shop.

The shop stocks designer Versace baby changing bags – for a cool $600. (Gulp.)

5. Lancer Dermatology Kim (below) has Dr Harold Lancer to thank for her unbelievably flawless skin. She hails him as her skincare guru, and he is Hollywood’s go-to expert when it comes to looking younger.

The Lancer Method reverses the usual order of skin care – beginning with polishing, or exfoliation, followed by cleansing, and then nourishing.

He believes that by polishing first, the result is a deeper cleanse, a more efficient d e l i ve r y of active ingredients and m o r e robust c e l l renewal.

 SYLVIA POWNALL Travel Editor

IF YOU’RE planning a bespoke trip to Thailand and want to take in the best of what it has to offer, then here are a few must-see recommendations

See for yourself why Maya Bay cove is world famous

Jungle trails and waterfalls also await

Try snorkelling in Mu Ko Surin’s crystal-clear waters

1 Train from Hua Hin to Petchaburi Hua Hin is the charming coastal town where the king has his summer palace, with one of the best-loved street markets in Thailand.

A stay here is highly recommended (cheap and cheerful downtown, or blow the budget at the five-star Sheraton resort on the outskirts).

The one-hour train ride north to Petchaburi is a magical experience and will take you off the tourist track. Once there, the temple and architecture are worth the trip, but the journey itself is the most memorable part.

The train returns at sunset and costs less than a euro.

2 Discover Chiang Kham T h i s l i t t l e - k n ow n

northern district offers scenic countryside on the border of Laos far from the madding crowd and queuing of Bangkok.

Phu Sang national park is a wonderland of limestone caves, waterfalls and natural plunge pools – not to mention the rare flora and fauna, and the hidden temples such as Wat Saen Mueang Ma. A double room in the Chiang Kham Grand Villa will set you back €20 a night.

3 Trek through the jungle Less than an hour from the Myanmar border lies Pai, a hotspot for tourists keen to see Mae Yen waterfall. Wildlife will abound on the threehour walk with farmers selling fruit at stalls along the route.

Your shoes might get a bit wet on the river crossings, but the views are spectacular and it’s well worth it.

4 Snorkelling at Mu Ko Surin The Surin islands in the Andaman Sea are surrounded by coral

reefs and are rated the number-one snorkelling destination in Thailand.

Day trips abound, but to fully immerse yourself in the experience a stay at the campsite at Mai Ngam bay is recommended.

A tr ue must-see is Suthep Bay – the country’s first underwater signposted snorkelling trail.

A two -person tent costs €15 a night (nps. dnp.go.th).

5 The Island(s) The notorious Maya Bay cove was made famous in Danny Boyle’s The Beach.

You can spend a night on the Maya Bay Sleep Aboard boat in Kho Phi Phi after an opportunity to explore the caves and jungle before watching the sunset with a cold beer.

Snorkels are provided after dark and fresh local cuisine is served. Bedding is provided on the sand to sleep under the stars, or aboard the boat if you prefer.

T he entire experience costs around €100 (mayabaytours.com).

GAZETTE

26 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15 February 2018

DUBLINLIFE

FEATURES

PYEONGCHANG: ATHLETES DOING THEIR BEST FOR US

Bubba and co – giving their all for Ireland  QUINN KANNER DESPITE our general lack of snow and winter sports, Ireland has five athletes representing us in the Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang – and one of them even grew up in Ireland!

Team Ireland’s secondyoungest member and only snowboarder is also the only Olympic vet on the team.

Seamus O’Connor made history as the first snowboarder to ever represent Ireland at the Olympics (in Sochi, 2014) and was the flagbearer for the team this year.

The Californian currently lives in Utah, but he’s eligible to compete for Ireland due to his Irish paternal grandparents.

Seamus finished the Men’s Halfpipe Qualifiers in 18th place, but unfortunately only the top 12 moved forward.

Our team’s four skiers include athletes living in the United States, France, Norway and Austria.

Tess Arbez grew up in the French Alps and has an Irish mother; she’s competing in the Ladies’ Slalom and Ladies’ Giant Slalom events.

Thomas Maloney Westgaard also has an Irish mother and is a duel citizen of Ireland and Norway.

He’s been competing for Ireland since 2016, and his Twitter bio roughly translates to “Norwegian. Competes for Ireland. Confused?”

He finished in 60th place for the Men’s’ 15km + 15km Skiathlon, and in 62nd for the Men’s Sprint Classic Qualifiers.

Donegal-born Patrick McMillan grew up in County Clare and went to Kings Hospital Secondary School here in Dublin. He started skiing seriously after a clerical error meant he couldn’t continue to play for the U19 Leinster Rugby team.

He splits his time between Ireland and Austria, where he trains, and is competing in the Men’s Super-G, Men’s Downhill and Men’s Alpine combined.

Rounding out the team is Brendan ‘Bubba’ Newby, who was born in Cork, but grew up in Utah where he still lives and works.

He’ll be competing in the Men’s Ski Halfpipe, starting February 20.

Patrick McMillan getting a feel for the conditions during his downhill training for the Games

ARTS: AN EXCITING LINE-UP OF PLAYS FOR ST PATRICK’S FESTIVAL

An exploration of living in Dublin in Where We Live  MARK O’BRIEN A T WO-WEEK pro gramme of theatre productions, work-in progress showings, music events and live art is coming to The Complex in Smithfield as part of the upcoming St Patrick’s Festival.

Where We Live is a kaleidoscope of stories about what it feels like to live in Dublin and Ireland today, told by some of the best storytellers on the island.

It investigates ideas around money, housing, migration, gender, community, the city and sex.

Jenny Jennings and Phillip McMahon, codirectors of event organisers THISISPOPBABY, said: “Where We Live aims to challenge the prevailing narratives fed to us by the media, the Government and increasingly, the algorithms and echo chambers of social media.

“We’re creating a kind of ‘town hall’, where discussion should be heated,

performance will be redhot, and where opposing views are encouraged.

“We want to tell funny, devastating, exhilarating and joyous stories that imagine and re-imagine what our city and country could be.”

Plays from Oonagh Murphy, Tara Flynn, Peter Daly (above) and Veronica Dyas, an immersive exhibition from Eamonn Doyle, Niall Sweeney and David Donohoe and a one-off concert from The High Hopes Community Choir are just some of the events to look forward to during this creative fortnight.

The consequences of the financial crash of 2008 are a theme that features in several works.

Veronica Dyas’ play, Here & Now (I live here now), tells the story of how ridding herself of her possessions has made her a happier person.

In November 2011, Veronica travelled to the Camino de Santiago – a trip that she said changed

her life.

When she returned, she came back to a house that was €100,000 in negative equity with mortgage arrears.

One year to the day later, she handed her keys to an estate agent and become an unlikely and nomadic landlord, living with friends and family and slowly shedding herself all but the most basic of possessions – something she called Project Downsize.

‘Fear’ She tells Dublin Gazette: “When I came back I was just surrounded by all this stuff and what I realised was that I’d bought the house out of fear.

“I’d bought the house out of shame because people were saying ‘You have to get on the property ladder, you’ll never get a house if you don’t buy now’, all that kind of stuff.”

After renting out her house, Veronica contin-

ued to get rid of what she viewed as unnecessary possessions.

“I started giving away my clothes. I gave all the stuff from the house to St Vincent de Paul, to charity shops, to Oxfam.

I gifted specific books to specific people.”

With the house currently up for sale, Veronica said that, once she pays the bank what she owes she may only have enough to “maybe buy a van to live in” and says that Here & Now aims to highlight the social policies that have impacted on generations of Irish people.

Actor and chartered accountant Peter Daly’s play, Money, tries to get to grips with what actually happened on the path to, and beyond, that fateful day in 2008 when the country was plunged into recession.

The play also has an autobiographical element, with Peter unafraid to reveal some of his own financial missteps.

He says: “It’s me as me,

talking about money and and talking about the wider Irish economy but also my own relationship with money.”

Money also explores deeper themes, asking whether success equates to monetary wealth or something deeper.

“I try and cover how crazy we went during the boom and then the bubble and then the bust.

“I look into what was driving us and how could we be so blind to what was almost an inevitable collapse that was coming down the line, and most of the reasons were that there was huge money to be made.

“And where there’s huge money to be made, people will take big risks and when people take risks, the money gets bigger and when the money gets bigger, even more people pile in.”

We Live Here runs from March 6-18, with tickets for Where We Live events on sale now from www.thisispopbaby.com.

15 February 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 27

GAZETTE

CINEMA

An iconic shot from Get Out – but will the film get the top win at the Oscars?

OSCAR LEADERS GET EVEN MORE AWARDS AHEAD OF THE BIG SHOW NEXT MONTH WITH the Oscars looming next month, the last few ceremonies by lesser known but also highly prestigious awards bodies are wrapping things up, with the Writers Guild of America just the latest to give some unsurprising nods to the clear frontrunners.

Twin juggernauts Get Out, and Call me by Your Name scooped Original Screenplay and Adapted Screenplay respectively, with the biting satire on racism, and the gay coming of age tale, continuing to steamroll the opposition despite some superb competition.

At this stage, it’s beginning to feel that nothing than stop the films’ total domination of the planet’s film awards – and deservedly so, as they’re both terrific – but even though the Writers awards tend to be echoed by the Oscars soon afterwards, nothing is certain.

There’s a chance that the critics’ darling The Shape of Water – the film about a cleaner falling in love with a sea monster – will sweep away the top Oscars, but we’ll have to wait and see.

Television Things were less open and shut with the Writers’ television awards, with many critics still convinced that we’re in the golden age of television, such has been the remarkable calibre of shows that have popped up in recent years.

From new dramas to westerns, sci-fi to documentaries, the past year has seen some remarkable work on the small screen.

Dystopian but timely drama The Handmaid’s Tale nabbed Drama Series and New Series awards, while a plethora of old favourites, ranging from Curb Your Enthusiasm to Better Call Saul at least garnered awards nods in their categories.

“What you lookin’ at?” If you’ve any sense, it won’t be Cloverfield Paradox, just added in a surprise move to Netflix. Despite its high-profile cast – and Chris O’Dowd (right) seemingly playing his role purely for laughs – the film is a disappointing addition to the smash-hit Cloverfield legacy.

CLOVERFIELD PARADOX: INTERESTING GAIN FOR NETFLIX ULTIMATELY DISAPPOINTS

A monster of a mess

 SHANE DILLON

REMEMBER Cloverfield? The found-footage monster film that conquered the world back in 2008, followed by an indirect but decent sequel of sorts in 10 Cloverfield Lane (2016)?

Well, how the mighty have fallen, because the latest addition to the Cloverfield oeuvre – Cloverfield Paradox (102 mins) – is an oeuvre-cooked monstrous mess – so much so that it’s been dumped straight onto Netflix by Paramount, rather than stink up cinemas.

It’s an interesting move for Netflix, which is no stranger to original programming, of course, but has a comparatively light record when it comes to

screening original big-name films.

Speaking of light, an exception came late last year with Bright, an underwhelming high-concept Will Smith vehicle starring him as a rather unpleasant cop in the ’hood teaming up with an orc partner to safeguard a powerful wand while some bad elves – oh, don’t ask, as it was anything but a magical experience.

However, Paradox goes a step further, leaving viewers scratching their heads and wondering what on earth Netflix took ownership of such a troubled production for.

Earth is central to the film, which largely follows a group of orbiting astronauts attempting

to fire up a McGuffin machine to create infinite energy for the planet, which is slipping into chaos below as our resources run out.

Tensions are running high both on terra-firma and terraspace-stationah, with the international crew at their wits end in trying to get their science project to work, watching war break out and adding to the pressure on their spinning station.

Perhaps they should have relied more on asking The IT Crowd’s Chris O’Dowd for tech support, as he’s also on board, but seemingly treating his role and the entire film as a flat-out comedy, despite the (admittedly impressive) earnestness on show from some of his fellow

cast members.

So far, so ... odd, given that the first two films in the Cloverfield universe were very much set in the ‘now’, whereas this tale just feels like some near-future offshoot that, frankly, is pretty hard to relate to the giant-monster flicks that its predecessors ultimately proved to be.

It’s not long before terrible things start happening on board the station, the crew start meeting grisly or unexpected deaths, and the film starts turning into some kind of mish-mash between Gravity, Sliders, Life, and Doctor Who. Believe me, that would be a better production to watch, as Paradox’s muddled tale of desperate astronauts and parallel

universes (spoiler alert there) fails to line up the easy shots that such a diverse sci-film should be able to take.

It’s almost worth watching for Chris’s funny turn (there’s an unintentionally absolutely hilarious scene where his neatly-severed-yet-still-alive arm wants to write the crew a warning, with Chris playing the scene like it’s a Red Dwarf offshoot), but the end result is just awful.

As such, Paradox is an early candidate for the worst-of-2018 film lists that you’ll see appearing near the year’s end.

If you’re looking for a great stompy-monster show, Netflix is still home to Stranger Things, but this thing is just strange...

Verdict: 3/10

MiniReviews...

PHANTOM THREAD

THE 15:17 TO PARIS

50 SHADES FREED

SUPPOSEDLY Daniel Day Lewis’s final film, Phantom Thread (Cert 15A, 130 mins) would be a terrific swansong to bow out on. It’s the type of role that Lewis can do in his sleep – playing a driven character who’s far from perfect, playing a dressmaker sewing and snipping his way through one muse after another (not literally) until one woman proves more

QUIETLY slinking into cinemas comes Clint Eastwood’s latest, The 15:17 to Paris (Cert 15A, 94 mins). It’s hard to know what to make of Clint’s latest, which tells the true-life tale of how three ordinary guys leapt into action to thwart a terrorist attack on their train – with the three guys playing themselves in the roles! While their act was undeniably heroic, the

ITS two stars may have all the charisma and chemistry of a concrete breeze block and a lonely hamster, but that hasn’t stopped 50 Shades Freed (Cert 18, 105 mins) becoming a financial smash-hit. Not so much a standard film as a loosely edited collection of property and luxury porn shots with two mismatched leads stumbling through its and-then-this-happened plot,

It’s definitely sew good

It’s rail-ly an odd film

than his match. Part period drama, and part sly comedy, director Paul Thomas Anderson stitches together a sumptuous-looking film that could also see it stitching up some Oscars in March.

A hundred ways awful

trio aren’t exactly the world’s greatest actors, let’s say, and in the current climate the film’s subject matter may rankle a little. At least Clint’s latest is an interesting move by the grizzled director.

the film is an utter mess – but its fans and viewers aren’t bothered about such matters as plot, dialogue, character development, and so on. As a plus point, at least Freed is the final film in the series ...

GAZETTE

28 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15 February 2018

DUBLINLIFE

FASTNews

The Skoda Vision X urban crossover

Skoda has new crossover Vision

SKODA will present a further development of its model range, with the hybrid Skoda Vision X model, due to be released at the Geneva Motor Show in March. This is a compact hybrid SUV, which Skoda claim has been designed for an active, urban lifestyle.

Ibiza delivers fresh style with connectivity

Compact cars, now often called superminis, are all moving to petrol fuel and for good reason, especially for low mileage city drivers. The Seat Ibiza is one of the new generation city car options that have enough space for a family in a stylish fresh design, as MICHAEL MORONEY found out during his recent test drive.

The car will come with distinctive bumpers, sporty side sills, a large panoramic glass roof and 20-inch alloy wheels create a powerful look. The sharp design is claimed to be inspired by traditional Czech glasswork.

The interior of the Skoda Vision X has a new wide, ergonomically contoured dashboard with freestanding colour display dominates the visual impression in the interior. The infotainment and connectivity services can be accessed quickly and intuitively via the screen. Illuminated elements made of cut crystal glass in conjunction with the colour display are designed to create atmospheric lighting effects.

The new Skoda Vision X Skoda’s vision of a modern crossover. By adding a third model to the SUV family, Skoda will be expanding their range of models with a focus on the fast-growing SUV segment. By 2025, Skoda will have brought out plug-in hybrid vehicles in addition to all-electric cars. Then, every fourth vehicle the brand delivers worldwide will have a plug-in hybrid or purely electric powertrain.

Promising start for Renault Group in 2018

RENAULT Group Ireland has claimed a promising start to 2018, taking fourth place in the combined new car and van market with a 10.1% share with almost 4,500 units sold in January. The Renault Group finished the month

THE Seat Ibiza has been a pillar model of the Seat car brand in Ireland with more than 30,000 sold over the five generations of the compact car. During 2017, Seat launched their fifth incarnation of the Ibiza with claims to bring a higher quality feel to the driving experience along with refreshed design while retaining the value for money image.

I’ve driven the Ibiza in the past and this new version is sharper to look at, smoother to drive and comes with new lower levels of economy. The Ibiza is in the smaller compact car market where there’s lots of competition.

Despite this, it retains its distinctive look and brings together the best of the Volkswagen Group technology in a design that individual to the Spanish

Seat Ibiza Xcellence Engine 1.0 litre Engine power 115hp 0 – 100km/hr 9.3 seconds Economy 21km/litre (4.71/100km or 60mpg)

Fuel Tank Capacity 40 litres CO2 emissions 108g/km Road Tax Band A3 €190 Main Service 20,000km/12 months Euro NCAP Rating 5 star (2017) Warranty 2 years Entry Price €18,745 origin brand. What’s very noticeable in the design is the Seat design full LED triangular headlights.

This Ibiza design is sharper as well as being significantly more modern. The new car has higher levels of connectivity than in the past with three options of Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Mirror

Link. This brings the Ibiza into the same connectivity league of some of the bigger cars in a compact and affordable package.

I found the system quick to set up and easy to use with my Apple iPhone package.

I took the Xcellence version of the Seat Ibiza for a recent test drive. The Xcel-

as the bestseller in counties Carlow, Louth, Waterford,

lence is one of four trim levels in the Ibiza range, second from the top which is the FR model, so I expected to get some useful specification in the car.

I was keen to evaluate the Ibiza’s compact threecylinder petrol engine in the new design. This engine is widely available in cars from across the Volkswagen Group, such as the Skoda Fabia and Volkswagen Polo, so the Seat offer has to be at least as good.

The engine is smooth and lively and rated at 115bhp and delivers good acceleration across the range of gears in the sixspeed manual gearbox.

The gear change mechanism is easy with a light feel clutch in support. This is just one of three compact engine options for

the Ibiza Xcellence, there are two smaller engine power options using the same engine design, that are programmed differently in terms of ability while the price difference is not that significant and the performance value far better as you go up the power offering.

Out on the road, the Ibiza Xcellence can deliver some pace, with the car achieving 100km/hr in just 9.3 seconds. You will have to work through the gears to get the most economical speed as with all modern petrol engines, so cruising at top motorway speeds can be less economical.

Mercedes-

Westmeath and Wexford.

Renault Group Ireland enjoyed its most successful year so far in 2017, achieving third position in the combined new car and van market with a combined market share of 9.8% and 15,226 vehicles sold. In January, Renault achieved a 6.2% share of the car market, while Dacia took 2.6%.

January saw a good start to the year for Renault Bank with €25.5 million lent to new car customers. Lending to business customers purchasing vans increased by 34% versus January 2017, indicating that the low rate of 3% APR across the Renault range is attractive to LCV customers. Dublin’s Renault dealers have attractive offers on models registered by 31 March 2018 across its Renault and Dacia PC and LCV ranges.

The new Mercedes-Benz A-Class will be unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in March

MERCEDES-BENZ has lifted the covers off its all-new A-Class which will be unveiled to the public at next month’s Geneva Motor Show. The new A-Class claims to be more ‘grown up’ and more comfortable than before.

There are numerous body changes to give the new A-Class a larger appearance, noticeably a more sloping bonnet and lower, more angular headlights and grille with inset star. The car claims to have more front headroom, more rear elbow and shoulder room than the cur-

15 February 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

MOTORING Fiat opens the order doors for stylish Tipo S-Design FIAT has expanded the Tipo range to include the new S-Design, a car with claims of more style and substance.

The new Tipo S-Design is only available in hatchback with entry prices starting from €22,995 for the 1.4 T-Jet 120hp petrol version.

This new version is immediately recognisable thanks to its distinctive wide grille with glossy black trim, which continue around the

The new Fiat Tipo S-Design

edges of the fog lights and on the

hatchback is now in Fiat Dublin

mirror caps. It also encases the Bi-

showrooms and is available to

Xenon headlights, which make their

order now

first appearance in the Tipo family.

New diamond-cut 18-inch alloy

The new Seat Ibiza Xcellence model comes with three engine power options and entry prices starting from €18,745. The new models are more stylish and are underpinned by the latest in Volkswagen Group car technology.

Sticking to the 2000rpm engine speed will bring fuel savings and achieve the rated figure of 21km/litre (4.71/100km or 60mpg), in reality, the feel of the car tends to force you to drive on and that economy level will be difficult to achieve on longer drives or in city traffic.

The car comes with the usual start-stop facility and although it’s lighter than some of the competition, including the Volkswagen Polo, it doesn’t achieve any better in terms of overall economy. The fuel tank capacity at 40 litres matches that of the competition, and I found that I was getting a range of almost 650km from

the full tank, which is very acceptable for a car of this size.

There are more specification features in the new Seat Ibiza. The standard kit includes Front Assist safety system as standard, while Adaptive Cruise Control, Wireless Charger and GSM signal amplifier are all available as options.

The new Ibiza rightly claims to have the largest boot in the segment with a capacity of 365 litres. That’s significantly bigger than the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Polo boots and that’s before the rear seats are folded.

Usefully, the Ibiza came with a space-saver spare wheel,

which for me is always a bonus.

On the safety front, this Ibiza comes with the impressive accolade of achieving a five star rating in the 2017 Euro NCAP testing programme. That’s a high rating and is based on the standard car specification across Europe, which includes Ireland. There are two ISO fix couplings in the rear and the driver protection rating of the car has improved with the new model, while the child protection rating has remained the same.

The front passenger airbag can be disabled to allow an additional rearward-facing child restraint to be used in

that seating position.

Entry prices for the Ibiza Xcellence models start at €20,180, which is very price competitive in the supermini league, making the car more competitive than the likes of the new Ford Fiesta, while Nissan’s new grown up Micra is keener priced for an equivalent entry model.

Seat has still some useful new car incentives that might help to add to the value that’s underpinned in a car that’s firmly based around the latest in the Volkswagen Group chassis and technology. That’s what adds the extra Xcellence factor to the Ibiza new generation deal.

Benz prepares for A-Class arrival rent model. The boot capacity is also 29 litres greater than before.

The car has a new dashboard design that is divided into two sections, one set above the other. The lower section separated from the other by appearing to ‘float’ before it in a three-dimensional way.

The new A-Class comes with what is claimed to be an ultra-modern multimedia and infotainment system, one of whose characteristics is a capacity to ‘learn’ thanks to its use

of artificial intelligence. Branded the Mercedes-Benz User Experience, MBUX, for short, this intuitive operating experience is claimed to significantly reduce driver distraction.

The new A-Class will be available with a range of new engines, including two four-cylinder petrol options of 1.4-litre and 2.0-litre capacity and a new 1.5-litre diesel with power outputs in the 116bhp to 224bhp range initially. higher performance AMG versions will follow. Transmission

options include a six-speed manual (on A220 version) and seven-speed automatic (on A250 and A180d versions).

The new car comes with advanced safety systems including see-ahead camera and radar with up to 500 metres range plus many ‘active’ features now common in MercedesBenz models, including Lane Keeping, Adaptive Braking, and various Distance Control and Driver Assist systems.

tainment system, fitted with high-

wheels, tinted rear windows and

resolution seven-inch touchscreen,

body coloured handles complete

and Apple CarPlay and Android

the look. It is available in a choice of

Auto to allow drivers to access

five colours, including the exclusive

their phone’s functionality while in

new Street Grey.

the car.

The new looks and equipment,

The interior has been restyled with new Techno leather and fabric

are underpinned by the nimble

seats. Double stitching on the

1.4-litre T-Jet 120hp petrol engine.

Techno leather and Airtex seats

Combined with a manual trans-

is replicated on the gear knob and

mission, it produces 139g/km CO2

steering wheel, while glossy black

while returning 6. l/100km on the

accents highlight the dashboard

combined cycle and travelling from

and Tecnico Grey fascia, which

zero to 100kph in 9.6 seconds.

The 1.6 M-Jet 120hp diesel with a

spans the entire width of the pas-

manual transmission, it produces

senger compartment.

The Fiat Tipo S-Design includes

98g/km CO2 while returning 3.7

some new technology as standard,

l/100km on the combined cycle and

including the next-generation

travelling from zero to 100kph in 9.8

Uconnectseven-inch HD LIVE info-

seconds.

Renault continues support for partner Pieta House RENAULT Group Ireland and its network of 28 dealerships around the country raised €5,000 for charity partner Pieta House during its recent Open Week. During this period, dealerships donated €5 for every test drive taken across the Renault and Dacia ranges, with the total amount raised matched by Renault Ireland. Renault Ireland has also provided Pieta House with a brand-new 181 Renault KADJAR for its fleet.

Patrick Magee, Country Operations Director Renault Group Ireland: “We are delighted to be in a position to support Pieta House’s incredible mission, and we hope this donation will make a positive difference in the charity’s everyday work.”

Brian Higgins, CEO Pieta House: “We deeply appreciate all the support from Renault Ireland over the years. We are very thankful to accept this generous donation from Renault Ireland, and all the dealers nation-

Renault Ireland recently raised €5,000 for

wide. These funds will go

its charity partner Pieta House, which was

directly to the delivery of

presented during the handover of a brand-new

our free service across the 181 Renault Kadjar by Liz O’Gorman, marketing country, helping people all manager at Renault Ireland to Brian Higgins of over Ireland.”

Pieta House

30 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 15 February 2018

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34 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 15 February 2018

SPORT

FastSport HOOLAHAN CALLS TIME ON IRISH CAREER: FORMER Shelbourne star Wes Hoolahan retired from international football this week after 43 caps for the Republic of Ireland.

The Dubliner etched his name into Irish footballing history with his exquisite finish against Sweden in Ireland’s opening game of EURO 2016, while he also provided memorable assists for Robbie Brady’s goal against Italy in Lille and James McClean’s strike against Austria in Vienna.

Since making his senior debut in 2008, Hoolahan had to wait another four years before earning his second cap but went on to become the third most used player under Martin O’Neill with 35 of his appearances coming within the current manager’s era. Twenty-four of his caps came in the starting team.

SOCCER: TALLAGHT CLUB AIMING TO AVOID SIMILAR SLOW START TO LAST TERM

Rovers chase sun in bid to start season in sunny style

 DAVE DONNELLY sport@dublingazette.com

SHAMROCK Rovers boss Stephen Bradley says his squad’s pre-season trip to the Algarve has given them an edge in their preparation for the new League of Ireland season.

The Hoops were invited to take part in the week-long Atlantic Cup in Portugal, where they faced Swedish sides Dalkurd FF, Hammarby IF and IFK Norrkoping on their way to a fourth-place finish.

And Bradley feels that, added to the quality of the opposition in all three games, the warm-weather training has allowed them to focus more on the tactical side of the game.

“It helped us training,” Bradley told the Dublin Gazette. “We could do a lot of tactical stuff we wanted to do and not have to worry about the snow or the rain or the wind. That was a big part of why we went, that and the games.

“Yeah, the standard over there was good – really

Shamrock Rovers celebrating a late cup goal against Dundalk last season. Picture: Martin Doherty

intense games, really good games. I think the lads are ready to go, but it’s always different when it’s a league game, always.”

An up-and-down start to the 2017 season, which saw the Hoops lose six of their first ten matches, meant Bradley’s side were never really in

the title race as Cork City raced clear.

Gelling The Tallaght native had stressed all along that his squad – which was muchchanged from the one inherited from Pat Fenlon – would take time to gel.

That showed with wins over Cork and Dundalk in the final series of games, though they lost out to the Lilywhites in both the EA Sports Cup final and FAI Cup semi-final on their own turf.

With an away Dublin derby at Bohemians followed by Dundalk at home in the sec-

ond round, Bradley feels the pressure to perform early-on will create the ideal environment for his side.

“I think it’s perfect. Other than Bohs at home, [games] don’t come much bigger for us. A sell-out, it’s going to be a rough and ready game.

“It mightn’t be a great spectacle but we know what type of games it’s going to be and we’ll be ready for it.

“In these games, it all goes out the window. It’s about the rivalry of us and them. You get out there and it’s intense and it’s hostile and it’s a strange one.

“Any derby is like that around the world – they’re all the same. Very rarely is it pretty to look at.”

Bradley confirmed the signing of striker Dan Carr earlier in the week, while ex-Leeds Un i t e d a t t a c ke r E o g h a n Stokes may still earn a contract.

However, he was beaten to the signing of the former Liver pool defender Daniel Cleary – who spent the entirety of pre-season with his squad – when Dundalk made a late bit for the Dubliner.

Method in Liam Buckey’s ‘madness’ at St Pat’s  DAVE DONNELLY sport@dublingazette.com

St Patrick’s Athletic’s I an Bermingham at the Aviva Stadium this week at the League of Ireland launch

LIAM Buckley has called on his St Patrick’s Athletic side to find that little bit of “madness”’ to take them back to the top table of Irish football.

Speaking to the Dublin Gazette at the launch of the SSE Airtricity League at Lansdowne Road on Tuesday, the Dubliner was in optimistic mood.

A disappointing campaign last year saw Buckley’s young side battle relegation to the

very last day, when a draw away to Derry City was enough to see them to safety by the slimmest margin.

Experience Experienced players like Killian Brennan and Owen Gar van, both recr uited in the summer, were key to the great escape and they’ve been retained this year.

And ‘Bucko’ feels there is enough talent in his squad this year to challenge at the right end of the table and possibly for European football.

“I want my team to play as well as they can,” Buckley said. “I want them to play with desire, a bit of madness, a bit of passion – they have the ability. They need to just get on the pitch and play.

“We have enough players in the squad to do well and I’m excited about where we’ll go at this moment in time.”

Pat’s beat Shamrock Rovers to the signing of the defender Kevin Toner – who signs after making four Premier League appearances for Aston Villa.

Along with former Rov-

ers wingers James Doona and Dean Clarke, there’s a healthier balance of youth and experience this time around.

Enough for Buckley to sound a note of cautious optimism ahead of the league opener as double winners Cork City come to Richmond Park for the first time since a dramatic 4-2 defeat in October.

“Bring on Cork on Friday night – they’ll be a good test for us. They are league and cup champions” he said.

The tie gets underway in Inchicore at 7.45pm.

15 February 2018 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 35

GAZETTE

FIRSTDivision

UCD consistent picture amid a flurry of change  DAVE DONNELLY

AMID all the change in the First Division with the introduction of three new teams and the shift to a ten-team league, UCD have been a picture of consistency.

Having fought off interest from Drogheda United for manager Collie O’Neill, the only real change has been Under-19 league-winning coach Ian Ryan replacing Evan McMillan as his assistant. Winger Simon Power – a peripheral figure last year – has moved on to Norwich City but captain Gary O’Neill has opted to stay, as have the bulk of last year’s squad.

And Dubliner Ryan feels that consistency will serve them well as they chase promotion back to the top tier for the first time since 2014.

“It’s probably the best squad I’ve seen there with the strength of the 20-22 players we have,” he told the Dublin Gazette.

“It’s all scholarships this year. Everyone in the first-team squad is on a scholarship – we don’t have any outside players.

“Ideally, we’d like to win the league, yes, but we’re there to develop the players and for them to realise their potential.”

A short trip down the N11 in Cabinteely, there’s been much change as senior figures Jason Byrne and Daire Doyle have left for coaching posts.

Strikers Ryan Swan and Gareth McCaffrey have moved on to Bohemians and Drogheda respectively, while former captain Victor Ekanem has also joined the Drogs.

Last year’s First Division player of the year, Marty Waters, remains with his local club, however, and Pat Devlin’s side will look to kick on from last season’s best-ever sixth-place finish.

Ireland Colleges & Universities star Joe Doyle and Dean Casey will provide competition up front, while Conor Earley scored twice as Cabo pushed Dundalk all the way in a 4-2 pre-season defeat. The club have announced they’ve allocated season tickets to all of their schoolboy players and managers. The total value of season tickets being given away exceeds €50,000.

All tickets are packaged and ready to be collected by the manager to distribute to their players ahead of the start of the 2018 season on Friday, February 23 ahead of Wexford at Stradbrook.

Bohs playing Long game on eve of new campaign Gypsies boss taking different approach with the hope of reaping rewards in 2018 despite a tight budget with evening trainings with a squad willing to take some leaps of faith  DAVE DONNELLY sport@dublingazette.com

KEITH Long believes his Bohemians squad for the forthcoming League of Ireland season is stronger than at the same point last year – when the Gypsies went on to finish fifth.

Bohs kick off their Premier Division campaign on Friday with the biggest game of them all – the Dublin Derby against fierce rivals Shamrock Rovers at Dalymount Park.

And the Dubliner says he’s got more strength in depth at his disposal than he did 12 months ago – despite losing firstteamers Fuad Sule and Warren O’Hora to league football in England.

Combative mid-

fielder Sule has moved to London to join up with League Two Barnet while the classy defender O’Hora signed a threeand-a-half-year deal with Premier League Brighton.

Speaking at the launch of Bohemians’ underage partnership with schoolboy nursery St Kevin’s Boys – former club of internationals Robbie Brady and Jeff Hendrick – Long said he will continue to have faith in young players.

“I think I’m happier than I was last year,” he said. “There’s more strength and depth to the squad than this time last year and the reason why is we’ve got a lot of games midweek and that will take its toll over the course of the season.

“Whether we’re stronger than last year... a lot of people would have had misgivings about us coming into the start of the season, but things evolve, things change.

“We brought a lot of young players into the squad and we’ve got some young players into the squad again this year, so who knows? We’ll see.

Pre-season can be phoney.”

Long has looked both inside and outside the league to strengthen with Kevin Devaney returning having starred despite Galway United’s relegation and JJ Lunney moving from St Patrick’s Athletic.

Irish under-19 internationals Darragh Leahy and Dylan Watts are also in situ at Dalymount,

Leahy signing from Coventry City and ex-UCD midfielder Watts on loan from Leicester City.

After new signing Ryan Swan was struck down with a pre-season knee ligament injury, Long says signing another striker would be nice but, with a tight budget, it’s unlikely.

“It’s ver y difficult to find a striker at this moment in time. We’ve got restrictions in terms of what we can bring in budget-wise, so we’re looking for a striker but it’s easier said than done. “ L o a n m ove s a r e options but it’s easier said than done, particularly when they’re coming from full-time clubs, because we’re part-time, albeit that we’re training as some of the full-time

All the League of Ireland teams gather for the new season which start on Friday evening. Picture: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile

clubs.

“We train at night and that can be difficult to try and persuade fellas that are coming from a fulltime set-up to take a leap of faith coming with us.

“We believe what we’re trying to do with the players is as good as anything that’s around the league but trying to convince them to take what they perceive as a step backwards is difficult.”

Midfielder Ian Morris – who is also the club’s youth development officer – believes Bohs can kick on from last season and challenge for Europe in the reduced ten-team league.

“I’ve been thinking about this for a long time.

Obviously with 12 teams, the player pool is bigger.

“Going down to ten teams, you’re nearly getting all the top players, the better players, into ten teams. I think the league is going to be a hell of a lot stronger this year.

“The tempo in our training is extremely high, the standards we set, and any of the players that come back into us now, that’s the first thing they say.

“Sometimes the socalled top clubs in the league don’t like playing against us because we’re so intense and we like to get on with the game.

“We’re hard to play against, and that’s what we’ll be looking to do again this year, upset teams and if we want to play, we can play.”

GAZETTE

36 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 15 February 2018

SPORT

FASTSport

SOCCER: RINGSEND CLUB WITHIN TOUCHING DISTANCE OF TOP TIER

St Mary’s on the attack. Picture: Paul Lundy

Mary’s show of force too much for Newbridge ST MARY’S College outscored Newbridge three tries to two to secure a place in the Bank of Ireland Leinster Schools Junior Cup quarter-final at Donnybrook with a 20-12 win over Newbridge.

The Rathmines got on the board straight away via a full-back Max Svejdar penalty in the fourth minute.

Newbridge were not shy about putting the ball through the hands either into a strong wind but they just couldn’t afford a mistake coming out of defence, a knock-on keeping them hemmed in.

St Mary’s number eight Adam Sloan powered off the back of a scrum to make a great gain and they kept the hammer down from multiple carries for Sloan to eventually lunge for the try, converted

by Svejdar for 10-0 on 16 minutes.

Newbridge’s counter-rucking was a strength and they looked capable on the ball, number eight Donough Lawlor carrying well and right wing Daniel Silke-Fetherston showing speed.

It was hooker Fintan O’Malley, who ripped the ball away, and Lawlor who found the metre of space close to the touchline to make it to the right corner for a valuable try in the 25th minute.

Mary’s countered quickly, though, with centre Rob Nolan and hooker Matthew Black making inroads and John Kennedy finished the job in the right corner for 15-5 in the 28th minute.

It was all to play for in the second half as the Bridge had use of the considerable wind in the second-half. This wasn’t a problem for St Mary’s running game as they managed to some semblance of control as Black and centre Barra O’Loughlin carried well.

A cleverly worked lineout sucked in Newbridge’s maul defence for hooker Black to stride over unopposed for 20-5 in the 46th minute.

There was still life in the Kildare school as outhalf Hugh Prendergast showed fancy footwork and Lawlor finished smartly from a quick tap penalty for wing Adam Conneely to convert with a dozen minutes left to play.

Not content, they came again for lock Diarmuid Mangan to tear through the middle where Svejdar brought him down.

It was nip and tuck from there as they went toeto-two with neither side able to land a telling blow.

Liffey Wanderers before last Friday night’s game, wearing their new kit sponsored by 5 Lamps

Liffeys leading the way LSL SUNDAY SENIOR 1

Liffey Wanderers 3 Dunboyne 1  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

LIFFEY WANDERERS went top of the second tier of intermediate football – LSL Sunday Senior 1 – as they overturned resilient visitors Dunboyne 3-1 in Irishtown on Friday night.

Wanderers are bidding to complete the climb from junior football to the intermediate’s top tier this season and remain on course after a win in which their frontline was largely ineffective against their relegation-battling visitors, but the rest of the side

stepped up.

It was Dunboyne who almost scored first, however, as Liffey’s keeper Philip O’Connor spilled a through ball at the feet of visiting target man Niall Connellan, only to pull of a fantastic save from Connellan at close range.

From then on, Liffeys dominated the early stages with Dean Young hitting the angle of post and bar from distance after chaos in the visitors defence, and Aidan Roche just failing to convert a close-range cross into a gaping goal.

The breakthrough was overdue on 20 minutes when another penalty box scramble led to right back

SOARING SUCCESS Killester depose league leaders UCD Marian PYROBEL Killester sparkled on Saturday

evening to win a cracking men’s basketball Super League tie, beating UCD Marian who had started the weekend in first place - 79-73.

“We’re delighted to get over the line it’s not easy, Marian have been the frontrunners in the league for so long and they’re a good team,” said Killester’s Brian O’Malley. “They got one over us in the cup semi-finals, and we’re delighted to get the victory.”

Picture: Martin Doherty

Andy Gray thumping a clearance back in on the volley to score from distance.

From then on, Dunboyne grew into the half and found themselves level when Jeff Deehan – by a distance their outstanding attacking threat – won a penalty as he was taken down running onto the ball down the right.

Brian McCrossan converted and, after a scrappy end to the half, the sides went in level.

Having been held by 10-men Tolka Rovers last week, however, Liffeys were in no mood to ship points to the team with the league’s worst recent

record. The creativity up front ramped up a notch in the second half and a through-ball from Lee Roche to Gary Young forced a good save out of Rob Hickey early on.

Hickey could do nothing about a dipping volley from Gavin O’Toole on 50 minutes, however, which flew just out of his reach as it was smashed back into the net from a Dunboyne clearance.

O’Connor needed to make another good save at the other end as Dunboyne tried to hit back, again through Deehan, but Liffeys all but cemented the points on 70 minutes when Lee Roche fired

into the bottom left from a 25 yard free kick, after a foul on Aidan Roche.

From there, the game opened up, and O’Connor pulled off a sharp save from a second McCrossan penalty as Dunboyne were the better side in the closing minutes, finally finding some fluidity as the home side took their foot off the gas.

There was to be no late comeback, though, as Liffeys 3-1 win lifts them above Tullamore Town and Tolka Rovers to a position at the top of Senior 1, one they could make their own should they make good use of their games in hand.

15 February 2018 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 37

GAZETTE

SOCCER: ANDY NOONAN’S SIDE GO CLEAR AT THE TOP

AULSoccer

Raheny celebrate one of their goals. Picture: Deryck Vincent

Raheny’s Transilvanian express  DAVE DONNELLY Bluebell United’s Tony Griffith battles for possession. Picture: Deryck Vincent

Bell ring up big win in Killester goalfest LSL SUNDAY SENIOR Killester United Bluebell United  DAVE DONNELLY

2 5

sport@dublingazette.com

BLUEBELL United move four points clear at the top of LSL Sunday Senior with a thrilling 5-2 win over second-place Killester United at Hadden Park on Sunday morning.

Goals from Gary Seary, Shane Stritch, Sean Byrne, Gareth Cooney and a first for the club for Ireland international Jason Byrne saw the Red Cow side to victory.

John Brophy and Josh Mullen scored for the home side, who battled throughout but were exposed on the counterattack time and again by the ruthless visitors.

It was Killester – who would have gone top with a win on their home patch – who took the lead after 20 minutes when Brophy nodded home from a setpiece delivery.

Bluebell could have equalised within two minutes when Sean Byrne – who recently returned

from Newbridge Town following Dean Ebbe’s departure for Wales – missed from close range.

The Bell did level on the half-hour when interplay between the front three saw the ball sit up for Gary Seary, who slotted past the keeper from ten yards.

Five minutes before the break, the visitors took the lead as Stritch showed strength to hold up the ball centrally and worked himself a shooting opportunity.

Killester started the second half strongly and put the Bell goal under siege, but another break saw Stritch square for Sean Byrne to tap in his second since returning in January.

Referee Daniel Murphy – who was excellent – awarded the home side a penalty but keeper Andy McNulty got down brilliantly to his left to deny Stephen Chambers.

The hosts did bring it back to 3-2 with ten minutes remaining when Mullen converted following a goalmouth scramble.

The Bell remained lethal on the counter, however, and Cooney

stuck home a fourth after his initial volley was saved before Jason Byrne added the gloss from three yards in injury time.

“The scoreline definitely flattered us,” Bluebell manager Andy Noonan told the Dublin Gazette.

“It was a 50/50 game but, on chances created, it could have finished 8-3.

Killester went for it and we shut up shop as best we could.

“When we broke, we had pace and a bit of guile as well. We looked like we were going to score every

time we went into the Killester half.”

The result leaves Bluebell four points clear of Killester and eight clear of champions St Mochta’s with 12 games left.

“Nobody wins anything in February. It’s looking well but I’ve been there the last three years where we’ve won two in a row and lost the last on goal difference.

“Killester, Mochta’s, Crumlin, Pats CY – a lot of teams are capable of catching us. You have to just stay focused.”

RAHENY United advanced to the last 16 of the AUL Liddy Cup following a dominant performance against fellow northsiders Real Transilvania at St Anne’s Park on Friday, winning 2-1.

Goals in either half from Michael McCabe and Matt Nolan gave Chris McDonnell’s side a commanding lead against the visitors, who had two players sent off during the game.

Real did pull one back late on as Mihai Madaran got on the end of a sweeping counter-attacking move, but Raheny held out comfortably to book a date with St Paul’s Artane in the next round.

“I think we dominated it fitnesswise and were able to get on it and play out from the back, which is the way we like to play,” McDonnell told the Dublin Gazette.

“We like to get on it and let the lads kind of build it out from the back. They struggled to get any pressure on us and we were able to carry the ball into their half fairly easily until their final third.

“They’re not a bad footballing side. They get on it and play but we were dangerous in attack and they were lacking a little bit of pace up front to really trouble us.”

The opening goal came about as the result of some enterprising play down the left-hand side, and a kind

bounce allowed McCabe to stride in on goal and slide the ball under the goalkeeper.

Things got progressively worse for the Romanian side when they were reduced to ten men after Cristian Pralea was judged to have kicked out at an opponent. It took until 20 minutes from the end for Raheny to make their pressure and numerical advantage count on the scoreboard, however.

After the Real defence were caught upfield, the home side were able to break in numbers and it finished in a tap-in for Nolan. A harsh sending-off for Claudiu Medelet for reckless use of the elbow followed, but Real did pull one back when Madaran finished following a wellworked one-two.

Overall, McDonnell – the FAI junior international coach who took over at the beginning of the season – feels his young side have acquitted themselves well in their first season in Premier A. The club were relegated from Premier B at the end of 2016/17 but McDonnell was behind the successful attempt to rejoin in the top tier after several clubs left for the Leinster Senior League.

“I’d say my age profile wouldn’t be far over the 20 mark if I was to average it out and a lot of these lads haven’t played Premier A football before.”

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GAZETTE

38 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 15 February 2018

SPORT

LADIES FOOTBALL: DESPITE A FIRST EVER WIN OVER CORK AT CROKE

FASTGAA

Bohan demands NATIONAL LEAGUE DIV 1

Dublin 3-9 Cork 1-14  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

Skerries Harps get the VIP treatment at Croker SKERRIES Harps’ Under-13 girls attended the Dubs’ Allianz League and Lidl National Football League double-header in Croke Park on Saturday evening in style.

Winners of an AIB competition, in partnership with Dublin GAA, the 25 girls and five mentors were treated to a VIP experience including a buffet meal and a bird’s eye view of the games.

During Dublin’s clash with Donegal, AIB had organised for three special guests to surprise the girls; Dublin footballer Jack McCaffrey and ladies footballers Nicole Owens and Hannah O’Neill. The Dublin stars chatted to the team about the evening’s matches, signed autographs and of course took selfies.

The team from Skerries Harps were the second round of winners for AIB’s new competition, giving juvenile clubs the chance to win a VIP matchday experience to one of Dublin’s Allianz League games in Croke Park.

DUBLIN sur vived a storming late comeback from Cork as the All Ireland champions claimed their third successive league win in the first part of a double-header at Croke Park last Saturday.

This was a great advertisement, too, played out between arguably the top two sides in ladies football, and certainly more competitive than the men’s victory over Donegal that followed shortly afterwards.

Olwen Carey bagged two goals and Carla Rowe clocked their third as they held on for victory despite a late fightback from the Rebels.

It was the sky-blues first ever win over Cork at HQ but, despite this,

manager Mick Bohan says there is plenty more that needs to come from his side if they are to retain their All-Ireland title.

“We were very disappointed,” Bohan said afterwards, after they saw an eight-point lead diminish to one in the final 20 minutes.

“I was just disappointed that we stopped doing the things that we had been doing so well and just went into our shell.

“That’s the part we have to look at because ultimately, we know we’ll be playing Cork again at some stage in the season.

There’ll be more at stake so we’ve to learn from it.”

Like Dublin, Cork went into the contest u n b e a t e n w i t h t wo league wins from two, and the Rebelettes made a powerful start, with Eimear Scally putting away a penalty just two minutes in.

That proved to be a moment that forced a push on for Dublin, however, and the tide turned after ten minutes of rapid points exchange, with Carey smashing home after she got onto a pass from Noelle Healy, mak-

ing it 1-3 a piece with ten minutes on the clock.

Healy was playing a starring role, in fact, with much of the Jackies best play routed through the marauding forward.

She was again at the heart of the second three-

pointer for the Dubs, as she charged through the Cork defence, before teeing up Carla Rowe on 16 minutes to complete the early turnaround, and put Dublin in front 2-3 to 1-4.

The game calmed a lit-

Carla Rowe holds off a Cork challenge

CLUB NOTICEBOARD

BALLYMUN KICKHAMS

HEROES of the week this week are all our coaches, mentors and helpers at our two fantastic nurseries and academies.

The amount of smiling children at both venues on Saturday mornings is a sight to behold and the fact that they are exercising whilst learning the basics of Gaelic football, while also socialising with other children of the same age, is an amazing, healthy and brilliant way for our youngest to spend Saturday mornings.

This would not be possible without our terrific helpers, administrators and coaches.

Take a collective bow y’all! You are our laoch na seachtaine!

Your children can join these nurseries if over the age of four; just show up and register. The St Kevin’s nursery is from 9.30 to 10.30am and the comprehensive nursery is from 11am to 12pm. We look forward to new members all

the time, so please, just show up Congratulations to our U-14 boys who had a fine away win over Erin’s Isle on Saturday, and well done also to our U-8 boys on a brilliant set of games with Ballyboughal last Friday.

Well done to the Dublin senior ladies and men’s footballers on their respective wins in the Division 1 league games in Croke Park on Saturday evening. In particular to Paddy Small who made his debut for the Dubs and scored a terrific and crucial point in the victory.

That brings to six members of the Dublin panel now in Jim Gavin’s squad from our club. A terrific honour. Well done all.

The executive committee of the club, on behalf of all our members and friends, in particular the U-9 boys team, would like to offer deepest sympathy to Fiona Cassidy Jewell and all her family on the recent passing of her brother.

Ar dheis De go raibh a anam.

For more information on these snippets, please visit

our Facebook, Twitter @ BallymunGAA and the website: ballymunkickhams.com All with thanks to Progressive Credit Union.

CRAOBH CHIARAIN

NO WINNER of the lotto jackpot of €4,000 on Monday, February 5.

Nine match three winners each received €67. Numbers were 2, 6,15 & 23. Next week’s jackpot will be €4,500 . Tickets are €2 and the draw takes place every Monday at 11pm in the club lounge.

Adult footballers start their 2018 league campaign on Sunday away to Na Gaeil Oga in St Catherine’s Park at noon.

Best of luck to Anto McCord and his team for the year ahead.

The minor hurlers have teamed up with Setanta and will be known as Cu Chuallainn.

They play St Peregrine’s in Clonshaugh at 11am on Sunday.

Best wishes to all concerned.

Membership fees for 2018 are now due. Details are on

display in the club or from the club registrar Linda Ryan.

Payment can be made at the bar. Receipts are issued for all such transactions.

Adult playing members must also pay an additional insurance fee.

Golf Society AGM on Thursday at 8pm.

Our ladies football section are holding a fundraising karaoke bingo session in the club lounge on Mother’s Day, Sunday, March 11 from 6 to 9pm.

Music has returned to the lounge on Sunday evenings.

Please support.

Well done to Grainne Shanley, Margaret Derwin, Linda Ryan and the team for a very successful launch of the new club sportswear on Friday evening. It was an outstanding success. The gear will be available in a few weeks.

Do you have any hurleys that your child has now outgrown?

Size 30 and below are especially useful as we can use them for our nursery and camps. Please

bring them to the club and leave them in the bucket provided.

The first weekend of our collection for the homeless went very well. The team will again be in the club from 10am to 2pm on Saturday to accept gifts of sleeping bags, hats, scarves and gloves.

CRUMLIN

CONGRATULATIONS to Brenda Kiernan on winning volunteer of the year 2017 award, she will receive her award on February 17 at a function in Croke Park.

The juvenile boys kicked off the juvenile season at the weekend; our U-12 boys started their year with a draw while our U-14s got off to a great start beating St Maurs.

G4M&O continues on Wednesday nights in the Old Christian Brothers Hall on Captains Road from 7.308.30pm. All newcomers are welcome.

Training is continuing for all teams; ladies football and camogie training is on a

Tuesday/Thursday night at 7pm in Bluebell Boxing.

For men’s/juvenile training times and schedules, please contact your mentors as times and venues do vary week to week.

Adult subs are now due and once again we will be asking all members social and playing to pay ASAP. Lotto was not won; numbers drawn were 4, 13, 18 and 19.

There were three match 3 winners and next week’s winning jackpot will be €3,300.

Joker Poker was not won and this week’s jackpot is €1,750.

NA FIANNA

GOOD league wins for Dublin’s seniors on Saturday night in Croke Park.

Congrats to Jonny Cooper, Leah Caffrey and Lucy Collins.

Thanks to all who made last Friday night’s Celebratory Dinner Dance a huge success and a great club occasion.

Thanks especially to our organising team, Bonnington

15 February 2018 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 39

GAZETTE

PARK, MANAGER DEMANDS MORE FROM HIS PLAYERS

Dubs step up tle going into the break, with the consistent Orla Finn and Healy doing the damage at either end, and the Dubs going in two points up at 2-5 to 1-6.

Clinical Carey was back into the action

straight after halftime, grabbing her second goal and Dublin’s third, this time with Sinead Goldrick a key architect as Dublin looked to have put the contest to bed early.

Cork can never be

t a ke n f o r g r a n t e d , though, having won ten of the past twelve All Ireland titles, and while Healy and Rowe briefly extended Dublin’s lead to a substantial eight points midway through the half, it was Cork who would

Leah Caffrey in possession . Picture: Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile

end the game on top.

Finn and Ciara O’Sullivan, plus a series of kickable frees for the visitors had the home side on the defensive, and with Dublin having failed to score for the final fifteen minutes, Melissa Duggan’s chip over the bar very nearly dipped the other side of the crossbar and – had it done so – would most likely have handed Cork the win.

Frees from Finn and Scally brought about an exciting end to the contest, and Dublin will have some ‘saved by the bell’ concerns as a period of being overrun was put to and end with the home side still holding the narrowest of leads.

Cork are a big scalp, however, and a 3-9 to 1-14 win in their first league game at Croke Park is another step on what’s becoming an impressive form streak.

CHAMPIONSHIP BLOW

Bernard Brogan at the recent launch of the 2018 Sports Industry awards . Picture: Billy Stickland/Inpho

Brogan injury tempers win over Donegal BERNARD Brogan looks set for an extended spell on the sidelines following news that he sustained a cruciate knee ligament injury in the build-up to last Saturday evening’s National Football League tie against Donegal at Croke Park.

The St Oliver Plunkett’s/Eoghan Ruadh man had been named initially in the starting line-up for the clash but was one of a number of changes to the starting team.

It was subsequently reported that he had sustained the serious injury in training, putting the remainder of his season in doubt.

Dublin are already without Jack McCaffrey with a similar injury for the forseeable future with his surgery taking place last October.

For Brogan, though, reports are that he is currently looking to avoid going the surgery route - in a similar manner to Michael Darragh Macauley - which could see him return to action sooner and possibly play some part in this year’s championship which gets under way against either Offaly or Wicklow on May 27.

In the Donegal tie, Dublin ran out 0-20 to 0-15 winners with Colm Basquel kicking four points in front of a crowd of 21,469.

The tie was also notable for the debut of Ballymun Kickhams Paddy Small, brother of John, who impressed. The Dubs were well in control at half-time with a 0-11 to 0-5 advantage before Donegal fought back in the second half, causing some concerns. But a late flurry from the sky blues saw them make it three wins from three.

CLUB NOTICEBOARD

Hotel, McGettigan’s Bar, special guest Úachtarán Tofa Cumann Lúthchleas Gael John Horan and the night’s MC Gavin Duffy.

Also on the night, former club barman Pat Sullivan was inducted into Na Fianna’s Hall of Fame and Martin Quilty was awarded Club Person of the Year, congrats to both.

Another great night planned for the Helix on Friday, March 9 for Na Fianna Sports Forum when a host of sports stars will come together to talk sports all in aid of Na Fianna.

Raffle on the night for terrific prizes. Tickets on sale from the Helix and club bar.

Na Fianna’s Operation Transformation continues every Monday night at 7pm, all welcome.

Na Fianna Connects, a brand new club initiative

set up to provide a platform for all club members to connect and share experiences, will hold its first interactive talk on March 2, 7.30pm in the club.

The first night’s guest will be Oisin McConville who will share his own story with us and entry is free to all members.

Draíocht Players return to Na Fianna on Thursday, March 1 at 8pm with The Plough and the Stars. Tickets €10, available from Ann Ryan or club office.

Best wishes to Donal Hickey on his continuing recovery from illness.

Sincere sympathies of the club are offered to the O’Donoghue family on the sad passing of Patricia, wife of Donal and Mother of Siobhán, Deirdre, Fiona and Róisín. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a h-anam.

Members’

subscriptions due. can be paid in the club office, Monday to Friday, 9.30am to 1pm, Saturdays in the club or online.

O’TOOLE’S

IT WAS a great Saturday evening for O’Toole’s girls in Croke Park. Our Kate came off the subs bench to help the Dublin ladies win over their nemesis rebelettes Cork.

At half time, Lucy Brennan did us and herself proud as she was part of the mixed club team playing.

Also, U-13 Sophie Smithers was presented with a jersey in recognition of goals she scored for her school when she played Croker.

Well done to our U-14A football team travelling all the way to Kilmacud Crokes to win their first match of the season.

Thanks to everyone that completed our Child Welfare course.

The dates for our Easter Camps are: Nursery- 4 to 7 year olds, March 27-29, and senior 8 to 12 year olds, April 3 to 5. Places are limited so book today with David on 086 3010134, Kelly on 085 1600381 (after 5pm) or Hellen on 086 3060524.

This weekend in our lounge, it’s Friday night fun and games. Saturday ‘Diablo’ and Sunday 6-8pm with Martin Kenny.

There was no winner of our live club lotto. The numbers were 1, 8, 20 and 22. The jackpot this week is €1,100.

RAHENY

MEMBERSHIP is now due for 2018, this can be paid in the club (registration forms available in the bar) or by logging on to https://

clubs.way2pay.org/).

No Ogra this week: Reminder to parents the Ogra is NOT on this week due to the school mid term.

A date for your diary - March 16: Our 60th Anniversary Ball is on March 16. This is a black tie event, tickets will be available to purchase behind the bar or online shortly. This is a great night to celebrate our club and everyone in it. Tickets are €75 each with dinner served at 8pm sharp.

This year, Mother’s Day falls on March 11 and the chosen charity for our mothers day brunch is “Breast Cancer Ireland”.

A group of Manor House TY students are running this event to help raise money for Breast cancer Ireland in one of their teachers names Emma Cassidy.

If you wish to book

either the hall or the Hill for communion/ confirmations,give Andrew Dowling on 087 1263439 or Eoin a call on 085 1481386. Or just ring the club on 01 8313530.

The new pitch in St Annes Pitch 5, the astro beside the tennis courts in St Annes, is an All Weather pitch and therefore not included in the pitch alerts on a Friday morning.

If looking to hire this pitch contact Paddy Moore of Raheny Sports Alliance on 086-7966794.

WHITEHALL COLMCILLE

DATE for your diarys! The hugely successful LIPSYNC night is back for 2018, taking place on Saturday, May 12 in the Bonnington Hotel, details to follow.

This year, the teams will be booked up early so

contact Audrey or Dara to put your name down to take part.

Club Golf Society will be kicking off with outings for 2018 very soon, contact new Captain Michael Hamill or Colm Moloney for details/dates.

Dates are set out in the bar. Bar bingo continues this Friday night at 9.45pm in the club bar, come on down to join in the fun Snowball will be €400, nice little bonus for someone in the new year?

Well done to Dessie who won the big snowball last week.

No winner of this week’s lotto jackpot but two members as always win €50. Next week’s jackpot will be €7,900.

As always keep an eye on club website and Facebook page for more details on all club events and fixtures: www. whitehallcolmcille.ie

GAZETTESPORT

ALL OF YOUR DUBLIN CITY SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 34-39

UNITED THEY STAND: Raheny sweep through in the AUL Liddy Cup with super win over Transilvania P37

FEBRUARY 15-21, 2018

LEAGUE OF THEIR OWN: GazetteSport previews the Dublin club’s LOI hopes P34-35

Jude’s silver target St Jude’s Kevin McManamon . Picture: Niall O’Connell

Tymon Park club looking to finally shake off nearly-men tag and land major glory with hopes high for the return of AFL1 on Sunday morning

AFL1 PREVIEW  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

ST JUDE’S have been the nearly men of Dublin football in recent years, and going into this year’s season, the message coming out of the club is a simple one: they want to be the nearly men no more.

“The mantra for this year is ‘something has to change’,” coach Gerry Carty tells the Dublin Gazette ahead of the AFL 1 opener, citing last year’s semi-final defeat against Vincent’s as a particularly harrowing moment.

“It’s hard to play well in the championship if you don’t play well in the league, you can’t

just flick a switch,” Carty says. “It’s a chance to bring in some minor players who get an opportunity to play. Ciaran Doherty has been attracting the interest of the Dublin management, and played in the O’Byrne Cup, as did Seamie Ryan. They’re ready.”

“We all have the impact of losing players,” Carty says of star man Kevin McManamon’s regular outings with the county.

“I remember in the past Kevin, who’s an integral part of our squad, coming back from playing in Kerry on Saturday night to play for us in Rush on a Sunday morning, so he’ll do everything he can for the club.

“If he’s allowed to play, he’ll be there. But obviously that’s not every time. Every club has

the same problem.

“The schedule is a big challenge,” he continues. “I think it’s a positive move to have the group stage in the championship that guarantees if you can win one game early in the season, you’ll still have competitive football into September.

“The players give it all to get ready for the championship so it being over with a single off game isn’t right. This rewards them with at least three games in the championship.”

Jude’s will be all about strategy this year, though, with Carty focused on ways to turn around those ‘just short of glory’ recent seasons.

Carty – who has a background in basketball

– is looking at kick outs in particular.

“Let’s say there are 23 of them in a game,” he explains. “They’re critical to possession and to the final score. If you can turn over 25% of the other teams, and keep your own, you’re very likely to win.

“Our thing will be going that bit further, and our key is just hard work. We’ll treat every game the same, work hard, and then the skills will come in thereafter.”

Jude’s open their season against impressive opposition in Na Fianna, a club Carty is convinced are on the up due to their strong record at minor and age group levels. The pair get underway at Tymon North at 10.15am on Sunday morning.