DublinGazette JANUARY 16-22, 2020
EDUCATIONFORLIFE: See our supplement for a wide range of great education-related matters and content to consider SEE PAGES 13-19
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THE LATEST NEWS & SPORT FROM THE DUBLIN CITY COUNCIL AREA
The dragon, the girl, and the Year of The Rat ... QING Ying Chen and her big, furry friend were happy to help launch details of the upcoming Chinese New Year Festival 2020, which runs from this Friday, January 24 to Monday, February 10, and looks set to be fun for all. This year will see the Year of the Rat being celebrated. See full story on Page 4. Picture: Julien Behal Photography
SPORT
BASKETBALL:
Killester win draining, thrilling semifinal epic in Cork to reach to national decider. SEE P32
style
‘TEXAN CHIC’ WINDS ITS WAY OUT EAST TO IRISH SHORES P20
Gardai continue grim hunt over body parts Investigating gruesome finds
RACHEL D’ARCY
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PARTIAL human remains were discovered in a burnt-out car in Drumcondra in the early hours of Wednesday morning, Gardai have revealed. Gardai were called to the scene at Trinity
Terrace, just off Clonliffe Avenue near Croke Park, in the early hours of Wednesday morning. The Garda Technical Bureau has been notified, as well as the Office of the State Pathologist and the Coroner. In a statement by the time of going to print,
gardai said it would be some time before proper identification can be confirmed. According to reports, gardai are said to believe that the discovery is linked to the disappearance of a teenager in Co Louth last Sunday night. The remains were discovered in the boot of the burnt out car at approximately 1:30am on Wednesday morning. FULL STORY ON PAGE 9
Nature PLANS to straighten out the Poddle River have caused ripples of anger and concern for nature lovers and community activists. They staged a protest over the looming plans, saying that while there may be flooding concerns, what’s needed is regular maintenance and clearing along the banks, not a much more impactful straightening. SEE PAGE 2
General Election 2020
AND they’re off ... With An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar firing the starting gun on General Election 2020, the parties and politicians have hit the ground running, with all switching straight into election mode. Inside, we take a look at what some of the party leaders had said by the time of going to print, look back at the last time a general election was held on a Saturday – more than a century ago – and also alert readers that it’s their responsibility to check that they’re definitely included on the register ...
SEE PAGE 7
2 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 16 January 2020
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A number of bodies have put forward plans to straighten the river, and tackle flooding – however, locals say that the river just needs better maintenance, and fear for the impact of the works on the riverbanks habitat and wildlife
‘Don’t straighten our beloved Poddle river’ RACHEL D’ARCY
rdarcy@dublingazette.com
A COM M U N I T Y- L E D protest took place in Kimmage last Sunday to protest against controversial plans to straighten the Poddle river, threatening local wildlife. Plans have been put forward by the Office of Public Works, Dublin City Council and South Dublin County Council to straighten the historic river. Under these plans, a flood defence wall will be built alongside the river, meaning that dozens of trees on the riverbank will be removed. Residents in Crumlin and Kimmage say that
the project threatens to damage two much-loved natural habitats – St Martin’s and Ravensdale parks – that are just 500 meters apart. The parks are home to several different species of bird, including kingfishers, sparrowhawks, swifts, herring gulls and other feathered species, some of which are protected and threatened in Ireland. Locals believe that the works will fatally damage biodiversity in the area, with a fear that areas along the Poddle river will suffer similarly to the decimation of the wetlands at Sean Walsh Park in Tallaght last year. Residents say that they were not consulted about the plans, and that flooding problems along the river are due to a lack of maintenance of culverts by Dublin City Council.
A protest was organised by both the Crumlin CleanUp Group and the Save the Poddle Wildlife Sanctuary Group last Sunday in Ravensdale Park to highlight the issues at hand, and to clean up the surrounds of the River Poddle. Dozens of people showed up to the protest, including local councillors and residents. The groups involved say this is the first protest they will hold to save the spaces around the Poddle River, suggesting more may be possible in the coming weeks and months. Speaking on behalf of the Save the Poddle Wildlife Sanctuary group, Roisin McAleer said: “Climate injustice is no longer a developing world issue. It is affecting local people here in Dublin 12 and across Ireland. “For the sake of our chil-
dren, we have to act now. “There is very little green space left in Kimmage or Crumlin, there’s nowhere for our kids to play, or to learn about nature, or even anywhere else to see some of the wonderful creatures that live here in this small reserve. “We are becoming very separated from nature, and council plans to build walls, instead of bridges, further divides people from people and divorces people from nature. “There are two tragedies here. The first is that hundreds, even thousands of people had no clue about these plans to degrade the environment in which they live. “The second, that nature and wildlife are forced to suffer and take a backseat because of Man’s recklessness and greed.”
MOTORING, PAGE 21
The all-new Renault Clio: See for yourself why this is the best yet in the Clio’s 30-year run.
• Ashleaf Shopping Centre • Artane Castle Shopping Cntr • Ballybough Stores • Bank of Ireland – Ranelagh • B&Q Tallaght • Bewleys – Georges St • The Buttery Restaurant – Trinity College • Cafe Parigi – Sir John Rogerson Quay • Centra – Ballsbridge • Centra – Dame street • Centra – Drimnagh • Centra – Fairview • Centra – Portland row • Centra – Thomas street • Centra – Pearse Street • Centra – Rathmines • Centra – Westland row • Centra – Whitehall • Centra – Westland Row • Charlestown Shopping Cntr • Crumlin Shopping Centre • DCC Office – Ballyfermot • DCC Office – Ballymun • DCC Office – Coolock • DCC Office – Crumlin • DCC Office – Marrowbone Ln • DCC Office – Wood quay • DIT Aungier Street • Drury street car park • Dunnes Stores- Finglas • Fresh – Grand Canal • Georges Street Arcade • Iceland – Ballyfermot • Iceland – Coolock • Ilac Centre • Insomnia – IFSC • Insomnia – CHQ • Insomnia – Liffey St • Insomnia – Millenium Walk • Insomnia Nassau St • Kilbarrack Shopping Centre • Knocklyon Credit Union • Lidl – Terenure • Londis – Inchicore • Marks & Spencer – Grafton St • Marks & Spencer – Mary St • Marks & Spencer – Mayor Sq • Mercantile Hotel • Northside Shopping Centre • Sandymount Credit Union • Shelbourne Park Dog Track • Spar – Agnes Road • Spar – Drumcondra • Spar – Capel street • Spar – Longboat quay • Spar – Nassau street • Spar – Patrick street • Spar – Rathmines • Spar – Thomas street • SuperValu – Ballymun • SuperValu – Knocklyon • SuperValu – Northside S.C • SuperValu – Raheny • SuperValu – Ranelagh • SuperValu – Rathgar • SuperValu – Rathgar • SuperValu – Sundrive • SuperValu – Talbot street • SuperValu – Walkinstown • The Swan Centre – Rathmines • Tesco – Baggot street • Tesco – Ballyfermot • Tesco – Clearwater SC • Tesco – Dame Street • Tesco – Fleet Street • Tesco – Navan road • Tesco – Omni Park SC • Tesco – Prussia street • Tesco – Rathmines • Tesco – Sandymount • Tesco - Terenure
FASTNews
CÓILÍN Duffy has been appointed as Group Editor of Dublin Gazette. He replaces Patrick Finnegan, who was appointed in October 2017, and retired at the end of 2019. Cóilín is originally from Laois and has more than 16 years’ experience across the media industry in a variety of roles in broadcast (radio and TV), online and print media. He has an extensive background in both sports and current affairs media, and has provided content for both Irish and international media outlets and organisations. A fluent Irish speaker, Cóilín came on board with the newspaper group in 2018 as a freelance sports journalist, and also provided occasional cover as Sports Editor. He said: “I am excited by the challenge that taking on my new role as Group Editor of Dublin Gazette entails. “It’s my aim to continue to help maintain our quality newspaper and digital coverage, while continuing to provide the people of Dublin with the high standard of local content that has placed the Dublin Gazette as a forerunner in local media over the past 16 years.”
Tesco gave €237,000 to help Dublin TESCO has announced the Tesco Community Fund donated a total of €237,000 to local projects across Dublin last year. Throughout the year, Tesco customers nominated local Dublin projects for inclusion in the programme, with the 2019 Tesco Community Fund supporting 903 worthy Dublin projects and causes including Finglas Suicide Network, Capuchin Day Centre and many more. Since 2014, through the Community Fund, Tesco has helped more than 15,000 local projects. The Community Fund has enabled Tesco to donate more than €4.3 million, in total, since 2014. The current cycle of the Tesco Community Fund runs until February 1, with 456 participating local projects across Tesco’s 151 stores in Ireland. Each local Tesco store has three nominated local projects and customers are encouraged to vote with their blue tokens for their
preferred project. To support a cause or project, Tesco customers can simply fill out a nomination form in store or online at https:// food-and-community.tesco. ie/nominations.
Opposition grows over centre plans CONSERVATION groups and politicians are objecting to a proposed development on the periphery of the protected Booterstown Marshes. Soundvale Ltd has filed planning permission with Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council and Dublin City Council for the development of a “biodiversity” centre on the edge of the marsh. Planning permission has been filed with both local authorities due to the marsh sprawling over county boundaries. However, An Taisce, and environmental group Friends of Booterstown Coast, are calling on the local authorities to reject the plans, saying the development will be detrimental to the marsh – a protected nature reserve.
16 January 2020 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 3
GLASNEVIN: LOCAL JAKE O’SHEA THROUGH TO NEXT ROUND OF BBC SHOW, THE GREATEST DANCER
Hairdresser hopes to be a cut above with fancy footwork RACHEL D’ARCY
A HAIRDRESSER from Glasnevin has become one of the latest contestants to proceed to the next round of BBC show The Greatest Dancer after wowing the judges. Jake O’Shea is a dancer who put his own spin on traditional Irish dancing when he appeared on the show last weekend. He has been dancing since he was four, but his dancing career took a backseat as he pursued a job as a hairdresser. Jake was previously a finalist on Ireland’s Got Talent last April, but failed to take home the prize.
However, it was his turn on the Virgin Media television show that brought him to the attention of The Greatest Dancer bosses, who scouted him for an appearance on the BBC show, that is now in its second series. Jake wowed the judges, including Cheryl Cole and Alesha Dixon. His sister, Robyn, also tugged at the audience’s heartstrings, with her reaction to her brother’s moves. The first four episodes of the new series sees performers of all styles and ages travel to shows studio in their bid to impress the audience. Speaking to Dublin Gazette, Jake told us that taking part in the show was a great experience,
and he can’t wait to see what comes next. He said: “I recently auditioned for the show and had to dance and audition in front of a mirror hoping for 75% of the audience vote to open the mirror and go through to the next stage of the competition. “Thankfully I got the mirror open! It was an amazing experience. “I loved every second being on that stage, and the comments and feedback I received off the dance captains was a dream,” Jake said. Tune in on January 25 for the next episode, and to see if Jake will make it through to the live shows.
Jake with his supportive sister, Robyn
Fallon & Byrne ex staff still FASTNews reeling after shock closure Fresh attacks on pitches spark SF anger
RACHEL D’ARCY and PADRAIG CONLON
SOME former workers at Fallon & Byrne in Rathmines say they are still awaiting payment owed to them after the outlet abruptly shut its doors earlier this month. The gourmet supermarket announced across its social media presence on January 2 that it would be closing the “loss-making” store at The Swan Centre. Fallon & Byrne Rathmines originally opened in 2016, but bosses say they had to “a c t d e c i sively” for what would be best for its overall business, which includes two other outlets – at Exchequer Street in the city centre, and in Dun Laoghaire. The news was met with shock by many, including staff of the store and its internal restaurant. Staff maintain that they were only told of the closure in a meeting on the same day the announcement was made on Instagram, despite operating as business as usual on New Year’s Day. An email was sent to staff calling them to a meeting in a city centre hotel on January 2 where
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they were told the outlet would be closing immediately. S t a f f w h o h a d n’t checked their emails were unaware of the meeting and discovered that the outlet was closing through social media posts from the company. In a statement to Dublin Gazette, a spokesperson for the company said: “Fallon & Byrne regrets the impact that the decision to close the loss-making Rathmines outlet has had on individual employees.
Team members are being supported in their search for new positions within the retail sector “Members of the Fallon & Byrne management team are in regular contact with staff representatives, as well as individual staff members affected by the closure, and are committed to supporting them during this difficult time. “Redeployment opportunities to the Exchequer Street and Dun Laoghaire outlets are currently being explored, and team members are being supported in their search for new positions within the retail and hospitality sectors.
Fallon &Byrne staff in Rathmines were shocked by the abrupt closure without warning of the branch – a move that the company defended as necessary, as well as stating that it is working with the former staff to try to assist them
“Staff were informed of the decision to close the outlet on January 2 and an official consultation process commenced on that date. “As per the statutory
requirement, a letter informing the Minister of Employment and Affairs and Social Protection of this consultation process was also delivered on that day.
“All staff are being paid each week, and will continue to be paid, over the course of the 30-day consultation process. “As per their contractual entitlement, they
will be paid for their notice periods upon conclusion of that process and, in addition, any staff with two years’ service will receive a redundancy payment.”
YET another pitch has been destroyed by vandals in the capital, this time in Drimnagh. Three football pitches were recently destroyed in the locality. The pitches at Benmadigan Road and Brickfield Park were ravaged by scramblers, whilst the Good Counsel GAA pitch was seriously damaged by a fire. Speaking about the destruction, Cllr Daithi Doolan (SF) said: “This destruction is unacceptable and wrong. It will not be tolerated by our community. “I know at first-hand how important these facilities are to the people of Drimnagh. “People are furious at this anti-social behaviour. We need the gardai to respond quickly when the public call garda stations for assistance in catching those involved. “The gardai must move in and catch them in the act. “I am calling on the council to repair the pitches as soon as possible. We cannot let the vandals win. “I am also demanding that Dublin City Council work with the gardai and emergency services in implementing a public awareness campaign in 2020 highlighting the dangers to health and safety when buying quads or scramblers for young people at Christmas “It is only by swift action by Dublin City Council and the Gardai will we stop this vandalism and protect our hard fought for recreational facilitates.”
4 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 16 January 2020
FASTNews
Tim Cook coming to town for award APPLE boss Tim Cook is set to visit Dublin later this month, where he will be presented with an award from An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar. Cook will receive the inaugural IDA Ireland Special Recognition Award at an event in the capital this month. Currently, Apple employs approximately 6,000 people in Ireland, with the award being given in honour of the 40 years of investment the tech company has made in Ireland. Apple are one of Ireland’s biggest employers. Cook will receive the award from IDA Ireland, despite international scrutiny faced by Apple for their tax arrangements in Ireland. An investigation by the European Commission in 2016 said that the Irish State allowed Apple to pay less tax than other companies, and ordered Apple to pay more than €13 billion in back taxes and interest to the State. The State is currently appealing the Commission’s decision.
‘Northside’s gangs need a new focus’ FOLLOWING a shooting on Sunday night in Kilbarrack, Labour’s Aodhan O Riordain has called for a Mulvey-style report to deal with ongoing gang violence in North Dublin. Senator O Riordain said: “The shooting that took place in Kilbarrack last night is a stark reminder of the need for a northside crime task force. “The sporadic but frantic nature of this feud is causing real concern amongst people in north Dublin communities. “It is time for genuine evaluation of the root causes of this feud, and potential solutions are needed.” The senator added: “We know how much of a difference the Mulvey Report made to the north inner city. Proper investment and respect for that process made a huge difference. “We need to see a similar exercise across the northside immediately.
STONEYBATTER: INCIDENT UNDER INVESTIGATION
Cyclist Suzy’s head-cam footage of the incident, which shows a bus driver sharply overtaking her
Dublin Bus under fire for dangerous driving RACHEL D’ARCY
DUBLIN Bus has said it is investigating an incident in Stoneybatter last week, after a cyclist posted footage of a driver twice dangerously overtaking her in the bus lane. The cyclist, Suzy, posted head-cam footage of the incident to her Twitter account on January 6, which shows the bus driver sharply overtaking her once, and then again in what is known as a ‘punishment pass’. She posted: “On my way home from a Dublin Cycling meeting and had the joy of two close passes from Dublin Bus No 37 in Stoneybatter. “First, he overtook me
and pulled in sharply in front of me, forcing me out of the lane. “He then did a punishment pass a few seconds later. Why risk my life?” The tweet has been retweeted more than 150 times, and liked more than 650 times. A ‘punishment pass’ is defined as when a motor vehicle driver intentionally drives close enough to a cyclist, swerves toward a cyclist, or moves the vehicle in an effort to intimidate a cyclist or create fear of a crash or injury. Several people voiced their concerns that incidents such as what happened to Suzy are an ongoing issue across the city, leaving people hesitant to
cycle in the city centre for fears for their safety, and that new regulations on safely overtaking cyclists in November haven’t been properly enforced. New regulations came into effect on November 12, 2019, under the Road Traffic Act. The amendment to the act reads: “A driver shall not overtake or attempt to overtake if to do so would endanger or cause inconvenience to a pedal cyclist.” Suzy said that she has reported the incident to Dublin Bus, and will also be reporting it to An Garda Siochana at Bridewell Garda Station. In a statement to Dublin Gazette, Dublin Bus con-
firmed that the incident is currently under investigation and said that “cyclist safety is of paramount importance” to the company. A spokesperson said: “Dublin Bus can confirm that this incident is being investigated. “All complaints and incidents reported to Dublin Bus are taken very seriously and investigated thoroughly as per the Dublin Bus Customer Charter and internal procedures. “If a breach is found, appropriate action is taken internally. “Cyclist safety is of paramount importance to Dublin Bus and has always formed part of our driver training process.”
Fun for all as the Year of the Rat looms RACHEL D’ARCY
DETAILS of the 2020 Dublin Chinese New Year Festival have been announced, celebrating The Year of the Rat from January 24 to February 10. Each year, the festival invites everyone to immerse themselves in Chinese culture, with a programme that includes talks, visual arts, performance, film, music and many family-friendly events. Highlights of this year’s festival include the Spring Festival Fair, two days of music and fun at the
Dublin City Fruit and Vegetable Market, as well as a selection of galas, concerts, talks, films and food experiences across the city. It will be a family-friendly affair, with workshops for families and children to learn more about Chinese traditions also on offer. The Lord Mayor of Dublin, Paul Mc Auliffe, said: “Dublin Chinese New Year Festival has been a wonderful addition to Dublin’s cultural calendar since its founding in 2008. “This year’s programme is one of the strongest, to date, with a jam-
packed schedule of exciting events set to take place across the city.” Speaking at the festival launch, the Chinese Ambassador to Ireland, His Excellency He Xiangdong, said: “As we prepare to welcome the Chinese New Year of the Rat, I am delighted to extend my festive greetings and best wishes to the Chinese community in Ireland, and to our Irish friends and partners. “I wish everybody a very happy and prosperous new year!” For further information, see dublinchinesenewyear.com.
16 January 2020 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 5
6 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 16 January 2020
BT YOUNG SCIENTISTS 2020: IMPRESSIVE SHOWINGS FROM A WIDE RANGE OF DUBLIN SCHOOLS Megan Williamson and Jack Cullen, from Kill O’The Grange NS, and their project, Is Ferry WheelY Physics? Picture: Karl Hussey/Fennell Photography
Two students develop new site to tackle Irish obesity TWO students from Meanscoil Iognaid Ris have created a website aimed at tackling Ireland’s growing health problems. Third year students Ross Manning and Roshan Jagan have spent more than a year working on the site, after being concerned about the rising levels of obesity. Ross told Dublin Gazette: “Obesity is a big issue in Ireland in recent years. “We could be the most obese country by 2030 if we don’t change now, so we decided to make people more aware. “Climate change is a big topic at the moment, and we wanted to bring obesity to the fore, because it is also a big topic, but it isn’t getting mentioned enough. “We read a case study by Dr Donal O’Shea which stated that we could become the most obese country in Europe by 2030, so that’s how we decided to make this website.” The duo undertook a huge survey among their school colleagues, said Roshan. He said: “They were giving us huge feedback about the website, and what they would like to see on it. “We also brought in guest stars, such as Conor McGregor’s coach, John Kavanagh. He also gave us advice as well.” Report findings Roshan also outlined the findings of the project, adding: “Our main findings were how obese Ireland was now, and that the most obese country was the Czech Republic, and that Ireland [had a] 25% [obesity rate for the general population].” It was a big deal for Ross and Roshan to take part, as they were the first students from the Walkinstown school to qualify for the Young Scientist Exhibition in 20 years.
Backing their handy, colourful project were Laura Walsh, Nicole O’Shea and Maeve Brady, a trio of sixth class pupils from Scoil San Treasa, Mount Merrion. Picture: Julien Behal Photography
Shay Walsh, managing director of BT Ireland and Minister for Education and Skills, Joe McHugh are pictured presenting the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition Individual Award to Oscar Despard (17), a fifth year student from Sandford Park, for his project, entitled Applying Data-Driven Experimental Analysis to the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing. Picture:Chris Bellew/Fennell Photography
Young researcher wows with project related to Irish ageing CÓILÍN DUFFY
SANDFORD Park student Oscar Despard scooped the top individual gong at the BT Young Scientist Exhibition for his project, entitled Applying Data-Driven Experimental Analysis to the Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing. The fifth year student used data in his project from a large database of Irish individuals to analyse a number of blood proteins to see if there was a correlation between blood levels and atrial fibrillation (AF). Levels of a protein called LDL showed an unexpected relationship with AF,
which can see an individual’s heart beat in a disorganised and irregular way, potentially leading to a range of symptoms and complications. The research, somewhat unexpectedly, suggested a possible beneficial effect of LDL in reducing the risk of AF. The work went on to show that a protein in white blood cells in the heart played a pivotal role in the process. The judges commented on how “this exceptional young researcher took a new perspective on a global problem and has brought new insights”. His project also picked up the Perrigo Best Biological and Ecological best proj-
ect award. 17-year old Oscar has been busy in recent months, and was one of the delegates to the recent Youth Assembly on Climate Change held at Government Buildings. Oscar’s project was one of four from Sandford Park School. Benjamin Murray’s project in the Technology category saw him create a ‘JC Coder’ – an e-learning website for teachers and students of the Junior Cycle Short Course in Coding. Benjamin picked up a Special Award from HEAnet – Ireland’s National Research & Education network – for
his project. The school had one group project, with Breffni Carroll and Ruth Caraway Pointon in the Biologicial and Ecological Sciences category, where they entered a project, entitled Testing The Effects of SO2, NO2 and Particulate Matter on the Air Quality Surrounding Trees. Alex Li’s project in the Chemical, Physical and Mathematical Sciences category was of particular interest to golfing enthusiasts, with the project asking Which Factor can Cause the Most Affect to the Golf Ball Hitting Distances?
Highlighting wi-fi’s susceptibility to hacking BEWARE when you are accessing wi-fi networks and other devices, as all may not be as it seems, according to Belvedere College student Brian Kelleher. Brian’s project – We are Not Safe – is the result of a two-year study by him, where he examined the security behind wi-fi networks. He told Dublin Gazette: “I did four main experiments as part of my project. “Firstly, I looked at
hacking wi-fi; secondly, I looked at hacking locked Apple computers that are password-protected; thirdly, I looked at installing viruses on Apple computers; and, finally, I did a survey to see how secure people think their passwords are.” The project earned him a special award from the IE Domain Registry (IEDR). Brian explained how his wi-fi experiment works. “It uses a program called Wi-Fi Phisher, which uses a fake wi-fi page to trick
the user into entering their password. “It looks like a normal router upgrade front page, but in reality when you put in the password, it goes to the attacker. “I tried it on five wi-fi networks, and four of them were vulnerable to the attack. “Because public wi-fi networks are unencrypted, an attacker can monitor what you can do. “There’s an attack where the hacker can ‘spoof’ a website. So, for
instance, if you look at facebook.com, they can intercept that request and put up a different page, and you wouldn’t necessarily know.” Passwords to start your computer can also be the subject of attacks. Brian said: “This type of attack exploits a vulnerability in a mode called ‘Single user mode’. This allows the attacker to access all of the files in a computer. “What an attacker would do is delete a file,
and create a new admin account. Once they have a new admin account, they can change all of the other passwords in the system. “If the attacker has one password, they essentially have all of the passwords, because if you have a Gmail password, for instance, you can reset all of the other passwords. “Most people still use the same password. In the survey I conducted, 80% of people use the same password on multiple sites. Clearly, if you have
one password, you have most of them. “People need to be vigilant online, and use secure passwords. Make sure what you click on, or what you enter your password in, or any credentials, are credible.” It was Brian’s second year in a row at the Young Scientist Exhibition. Last year, he had a project about the housing crisis, and he built an algorithm relating to which houses would perform well as rentals.
16 January 2020 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 7
POLITICS: PARTIES, POLITICIANS HIT THE GROUND RUNNING AHEAD OF GENERAL ELECTION 2020
We’ve waited more than a century for a Saturday general election THE last time a general election took place on a Saturday in Ireland was December 14, 1918. Held as part of the 1918 United Kingdom General Election, this election was a pivotal moment in the history, and creation, of this state. Held in the aftermath of World War I, the Easter Rising and the
Conscription Crisis, it was the first general election to be held after the Representation of the People Act 1918, which meant it was the first time women over the age of 30, and all men over the age of 21, could vote. Previously, all women and most working-class men were excluded from voting.
It took two weeks and a Christmas break for all votes cast to be counted. When they eventually were, on December 28, the Sinn Fein party – which had never stood in a general election – scored a resounding landslide victory, securing 73 of the 105 seats available for Ireland. The moderate nationalist Irish
Parliamentary Party, which had been the main party in the country since the 1880s, suffered a crushing defeat. The unionists won 26 seats, and the nationalists of the Irish Party, which had held 68 seats prior to the election, only won six seats. Sinn Fein had promised in its elec-
tion manifesto to establish an independent Irish republic. Following the election, Sinn Fein’s elected members refused to attend the British Parliament in Westminster, and instead formed a parliament in Dublin – the First Dail Eireann, which declared Irish independence in January, 1919.
Some would-be voters could be caught out by a technical ruling over the voter register – so check you’re listed, now RACHEL D’ARCY
THOSE who applied to vote after February 15, 2019 are being encouraged to check the voter register ahead of the upcoming general election, as they may not be eligible to vote. This is because the Register of Electors is only updated officially once per year, on February 15, meaning those who applied to vote after this date in 2019 may not yet be included on the updated Register of Electors. This is a date fixed into law under the Electoral Act 1992, Section 1. With the general election taking place on February 8, it is believed that thousands of people who have registered to vote will have to apply to the Supplemental Register, as Minister for Housing Eoghan Murphy confirmed that the 2019-2020 register will be the one applicable to the upcoming election. The Supplemental Register would be the only way for many voters to guarantee that they would be registered in time for the general election. This will mean that those that need to apply to be on the Supplemental Register will have to apply for addition before January 22 to ensure their vote. Minister Murphy said: “It is up to each of us as individuals to ensure we are correctly registered to vote, and the best way to do that is to check directly with the relevant local
authority. “However, the crucial point is that there is still time to register to vote in this general election.” People should take the following steps to ensure that they are correctly registered to vote. Step 1 Check online at checktheregister.ie if your details are included on the 2019-2020 electoral register, or check directly with your local authority. If your details are included correctly, no further action is necessary.
Step 2 If your details are not included on the 20192020 register, you should contact the relevant local authority and check if your details are included in the Supplemental Register. If your details are included in the supplement to the register of electors, no further action is required. Step 3 If your details are not included in either, you should obtain the appropriate application form from your local authority, or download it from checktheregister.ie and complete the relevant form. Before signing the declaration, bring the form and photo ID to your local garda station and sign it in the presence of a member of An Garda Siochana, who will stamp the form. Forms must reach the local authority on or before close of business on January 22.
It’ll be a bruising battle for An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar leading Fine Gael, Michael Martin for Fianna Fail, and Mary Lou McDonald for Sinn Fein
It’s Dail to play for as party leaders reflect on upcoming battle GARY IBBOTSON
SPEAKING in front of Government Buildings on Tuesday afternoon, An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar said he “always said the election should happen at the best time for the country – now is that time”. Among the reasons to hold an early election, the Taoiseach cited Brexit and the negotiations surrounding the Free Trade agreement. The next European Council is in March and he said he wants the new Government formed and prepared for then. The Taoiseach said:
“It has been a privilege to lead this country as your Taoiseach for the past two and a half years. Thank you for that honour and your trust in me. “Our economy has never been stronger. There are more people at work than ever before, incomes are rising, poverty is falling, and the public finances are in back in order. “As a nation, we have every reason to be hopeful about the future. “We’ve modernised our society – marriage equality, women’s rights, real progress in education, welfare and childcare. “But, it’s not enough.
I know it’s not enough. People want their government to do much more. And I want us to do much more.” Reacting to the calling of the election, Fianna Fail leader Michael Martin said housing and health are two most pertinent issues that need to be addressed going forward. Deputy Martin said “Fine Gael has failed” to tackle the problems in those sectors, and “it clearly is time for a change of government”. He added: “For us, and the Irish people in particular, this is a vital election in terms of their future
because we are facing enormous challenges.” Speaking at Leinster House, Deputy Martin said the campaign will be tight, and rejected the suggestion that his party is currently in the lead. He said: “I don’t accept anything of the sort. I’m a very humble man, as you know, but as far as I’m concerned, it’s very competitive. “I think it’s neck-andneck. If I’m honest, and I think there’s a lot of competitive electoral battles in the different constituencies.2 Deputy Martin said he would “love” a TV debate and would “prefer” a one-
on-one debate with the Taoiseach, but is open to other formats as well. Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald said the party has “listened and learned” from their local election losses, and is optimistic the party can gain back the trust of the public this election. She said: “We’re setting out to defend the seats that we hold; we’re confident we can do that – we don’t underestimate the challenge, but we’re confident.” The other party leaders had not publicly commented at the time of writing and going to print.
8 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 16 January 2020
HEALTH: COUNCIL FOR CIVIL LIBERTIES CALL PROTESTS ‘SICKENING’
Call for Harris to introduce ‘safe zones’ PADRAIG CONLON
THE IRISH Council for Civil Liberties has called o n t h e M i n i s te r fo r Health to immediately establish safe zones around all medical centres that provide abortion services. The ICCL say they have researched the legality of such zones from a human rights perspective, and found these zones are necessary to protect women. The investigation also found protests may be
restricted so that women can access healthcare in privacy, safety and dignity. Demonstration Their investigation comes a week after a demonstration featuring tiny coffins and white c ro s s e s o u t s i d e t h e National Maternity Hospital on 1 January, which Simon Harris labelled “sickening”. In response to the protest, ICCL set up an email-your-TD tool which helps people con-
tact their local politicians to express support for the creation of safe zones. Since then, 2405 emails have been sent in support of the move. ICCL’s Senior Research and Policy Officer Doireann Ansbro has been investigating whether safe zones are necessary, and if so, how they can be implemented from a legal and constitutional perspective. “Everyone is aware of the disturbing demonstration outside the
The National Maternity Hospital at Holles Street. Picture: Wikipedia
National Maternity Hospital last week, but the same thing is happening far more often than is reported either to the Gardaí or in the media,” she said. “Many medical practitioners and the ir patients understandably prefer to protect their privacy instead of going to the press.
“
It’s not acceptable for people to feel shamed accessing care
“Some also worry that publicising the extent of the demonstrations will deter new practitioners from signing up to the service, and women from accessing it.” “Everyone has the r i g h t to a c c e s s t h e healthcare they need. “It’s not acceptable that anyone should feel exposed, or intimidated,
or shamed when they access medical care. Lesgislation “We need particular legislation here, in order to deal with a particular issue. “We have to stop the culture of shaming and stigmatising people who require abortion services.”
Report published on future of Inchicore and Kilmainham MINISTER OF STATE at the Department of Health, Catherine Byrne, has welcomed the publication of the final scoping report on Inchicore and Kilmainham by retired Assistant Garda Commissioner, Dr Jack Nolan. This report was commissioned last February following concerns raised regarding a lack of investment and planning in the area. Dr Nolan has presented
the report to the Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Minister Byrne and Minister of State Damien English. The report makes 9 key recommendations that form the basis of a strategic action plan for the area. Minister Byrne said: “I welcome this report and commend Dr Jack Nolan for his work and commitment to this project. “Crucially, he also met with local residents to listen to their views and
identify their concerns and hopes for the community where they live. “Dr Nolan’s recommendations offer real opportunities to create a viable and sustainable community in Inchicore and Kilmainham which have suffered from a lack of investment and planning for many years. “I believe this report provides a roadmap for the future and is an important first step to developing a strategic action plan for
Kilmainham and Inchicore, focused on the economic and social regeneration of the area. “The views and involvement of the local community in this process are key to its success. “I therefore plan to hold an open information meeting with Minister English in Inchicore later this month, where Dr Nolan will make a presentation on his findings and recommendations.”
16 January 2020 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 9
FASTNews
CRIME: WIDESPREAD REVULSION OVER HORROR FINDS ITUNES
Come out Ye Black and Tans hits No 1 RACHEL D’ARCY rdarcy@dublingazette.com
Extra funding for DEIS school books
Childcare Vandalism protest set forces charfor February ity to close THE EARLY Years Alliance has announced that it will hold a national protest march involving thousands of educators, providers and parents on February 5. The protest will be held to demand a sustainable solution to the worsening childcare crisis in Dublin. Federation of Early Childhood Providers Chairperson, Elaine Dunne, said: “We are calling on all those concerned by the worsening childcare crisis to join us to say enough is enough. We are educators and need to be paid accordingly. “The reason the insurance hike in the sector has hit us so hard, is because we are paid so little in the first place. “The Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) scheme grant pays us €4.60 an hour and we only get paid for three hours a day. Sustainability is a real issue for providers.”
THE OLDEST working charity in Dublin was forced to close it’s doors last week, after vandals smashed their windows. The Mendicity Insitution opened in 1818, and has been assisting Dubliners for more than 200 years. Taking to Twitter to report the closure, the charity said that they were forced to close following threats made to staff, and vandalism of the building on Island Street. They suffered a similar attack last August, with staff at the time saying they would consider whether or not to cease their ‘open door’ policy. “We pride ourselves on a welcoming ‘open door’ policy for all who need us,” the charity posted. “We were forced to close after serious threats and an act of vandalism, smashing our windows. “Charity is not an ‘extreme sport’.” The service has now reopened.
The junction of Moatview Gardens and Drive in Coolock, where human remains were found in a bag. Picture: Google Maps
Appeal for witnesses after grim discoveries of severed body parts RACHEL D’ARCY
GARDAÍ have launched an investigation after human body parts were discovered in Coolock on Monday, followed by further remains discovered in Drumcondra on Wednesday. The alarm was raised just before 10pm on January 13, when human limbs were discovered in a discarded bag at the junction of Moatview Gardens and Drive in Coolock. In the early hours of Wednesday, January 13, partial body remains were also discovered in a burnt-out vehicle off Clonliffe Avenue in
“
The incident of human body parts being found in Coolock is shocking. When did human life become so disposable? Drumcondra. It has been reported that the two discoveries are understood to be linked. However, due to the nature of the incident, Gardaí say it will be some time before proper identification of the remains can be confirmed. T h e a s s i s ta n c e o f Forensic Science Ireland
will also be sought. A head and torso had still not been found at the time of going to print. Councillor for ArtaneWhitehall, Racheal Batten (SD), said: “The incident of human body parts being found in Coolock is shocking. When did human life become so disposable? “The situation in North
Dublin is out of control. We need to stamp out this mindless criminality in our community.” In a post on Facebook, Cllr John Lyons (Ind) said the discovery was “gruesome”. Gardaí are appealing for witnesses in relation to both discoveries, with reports that Gardai believe the discovery is linked to the disappearance of a 17-year-old teenager in Co Louth last Sunday night. Any person with relevant information can contact Gardaí in Coolock Garda Station at 01 666 4200, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda Station.
STYLE, PAGE 19
Punk Prairie: The high street is taking inspiration from modern Texan chic this Spring season
MINISTER for Education Joe McHugh has announced additional funding of €1 million to reduce the cost of schoolbooks in DEIS schools across the country. More than 15,000 pupils are set to benefit from the increased investment, which will aim to provide free books in primary schools. The investment is being made on top of the book grant provided to all schools, following a commitment in Budget 2020 to introduce extra support to reduce costs for families and school communities. Announcing the investment, Minister McHugh said: “Around 15,500 children, their families and their schools will benefit from the initiative, which is about reducing costs and easing financial burdens as well as helping to improve children’s education and enjoy the beauty of books.” The pilot programme will see the book grant increase to €85 per pupil in the participating schools, all of which are in the DEIS programme.
FOLLOWING the return of their hit ‘Come Out Ye Black and Tans’ to the top of the iTunes charts, The Wolfe Tones have announced that any profits raised from single sales will go to a Dublin homeless charity. The rebel song made its way to the top of the iTunes charts last week, beating the likes of Lewis Capaldi, Dua Lipa and Justin Bieber to the top spot. The Wolfe Tones held the number one and two positions on the Irish iTunes chart, and also rose to number one on the UK chart as well. It’s believed the song made its way back onto the charts following news of the Government’s now-deferred commemoration ceremony for the Royal Irish Constabulary. The Wolfe Tones were vocal in their opposition to the planned ceremony on the official Wolfe Tones Twitter account, saying that Justice Minister Charlie Flanagan should “cancel it completely and hang [his] head in shame for ever proposing it.” As news came that they had reached the top of the UK and Ireland charts, the band said they would be donating the proceeds of the single to the Peter McVerry Trust. The band said: “We will be donating the proceeds of the success you made by downloading ‘Come out ye Black and Tans’ to the Peter McVerry Trust who do great work to aid the homeless.”
10 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 16 January 2020
GALLERIES OF THE WEEK
Sinead O’Carroll and Ryan McShane
Clementine MacNeice and Jamie Lynch
Lisa Cannon with Rose and Holly Maguire. Pictures: Andres Poveda
Laura Nolan and Robert Rowinski
CATS premiere at the Stella Theatre C
Alan Cawley and Peter Lynch
ROWDS gathered in the Stella Theatre in Dublin last week for the first Irish screening of
Marty Morrissey and Liz Kidney
CATS, the musical movie event of the year. Among the audience were sports broadcaster Marty Morrissey, model
Laura Woods and Pauline Woods
Thalia Heffernan, and singer Erica Cody, all in the stylish surroundings of the Stella Theatre in Rathmines.
Thalia Heffernan and Ryan McShane
Jenny Buckley and Amy Crighton
16 January 2020 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 11
GALLERIES OF THE WEEK Tripthi Rodrigues and Aoife Desales. Pictures: Brian McEvoy
Sharon Hennessy and Aisling Holly
Corena Cleary
Ciaran Farrell and Jane Young
Adrian and Linda Kennedy
Launch of India Today Bar & Grill T
HE opening of India Today Bar & Grill on Golden Lane took place with the Indian Ambassador Mr Sandeep Kumar and Counsellor Mr Somnath Chatterjee in attendance. Guests including Karl Boe, Natalia Petric and Radio Presenter Adrian Kennedy were treated to a fabulous array of Indian dishes, cocktails and wine. Dishes were crated by renowned Chef Manish Kumar Sharma who wanted to showcase a contemporary reflection of the eclectic and diverse history of Indian cuisine. Deborah Sweeney and Fergus Kealy
Bogdan and Natalia Petric
12 DUBLIN GAZETTE 16 January 2020
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ROBBIE McCarthy was happy to line up lots of Irish Coffees at The Old Storehouse in Temple Bar, where thoughts were turning to the upcoming International Irish Coffee Day, on January 25. On the day, the bar will see a Guinness World Record attempt at noon for the most Irish coffees being made in under three minutes, with four bartenders going head to head for the challenge. Picture: Leon Farrell/Photocall Ireland
Cops rush to rescue Rambo A CONCERNED neighbour in Florida called the police after hearing a woman screaming “Help, let me out” – but things weren’t what they seemed. Four sheriff’s deputies responded to the call in Lake Worth Beach and found a man working on a car on his driveway. When the police enquired about who was screaming, the man brought the ‘screaming’ woman out to the waiting police, revealing the
source of the noise to be Rambo – his 40-year-old parrot. Footage was captured on the unnamed man’s video doorbell, showing the bird greeting the officers, who are shown to be sharing a laugh before leaving the premises. The Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office posted about the event on Facebook, saying that “hilarity ensued” after they made the call.
Woman rescued from a bin
A WOMAN in New Jer-
sey has been freed from a clothing recycling bin after three days, when a passer-by heard her screaming for help. Po l i ce i n Pa te rso n responded to a call from a concerned citizen reporting that the woman was trapped inside. When police arrived and the woman was freed, the 38-year-old told police that she was reaching inside the bin when somebody pushed her inside and closed the door, causing her to become trapped. With temperatures in New Jersey dipping as low as 0C when she was trapped inside, the woman was found to be
suffering from frostbite and taken to a local hospital for treatment.
‘Wrong trousers’ halt sport
AN ICE hockey game in the UK had to be delayed last week, after one of the referees forgot to bring his trousers to work. Ice h o c key re fe re e Richard Belfitt left his officiating trousers at home, meaning that the imminent game between the Peterborough Phantoms and the Telford Tigers had to be delayed while he found appropri-
ate trousers. Ice hockey officials need special black trousers with padding, due to the speed of the puck. The game began 15 minutes behind schedule after Belfitt found some official trousers to wear, but not before a gentle ribbing from the crowd and on social media. Speaking to BBC sport, Peterborough Phantoms player Tom Norton said everyone “saw the lighter side of it”. He added: “As annoying as it was for us, having done our warm-up and been ready to go, these things happen and it’s a bit of comedy, really.”
DOG OF THE WEEK DUBLIN Gazette Newspapers has teamed up with Dogs Trust to help find homes for lost and abandoned dogs. This week’s dog of the week is Sonny, an older dog (9) but don’t be fooled – this handsome dog has bundles of energy. He loves to play with his toys but also loves a good cuddle; he’s super friendly both with dogs and people, so it’s important that Sonny lives with another dog. Sonny’s ideal home would be with a family with another dog for him to play with and cuddle up to; he also loves children but, given his exuberance, there is a potential for him to bowl
smaller children over. As Sonny loves attention so much, he would struggle being left been alone for long periods, so he is looking for a home where this won’t happen If you have room in your heart and home for Sonny then please contact Dogs Trust on 01 879 1000. They are based in Finglas, just off exit 5 on the M50. Map and directions can be found on their website www.dogstrust.ie. You can also find them on Facebook www.facebook.com/dogstrustirelandonline or Twitter @DogsTrust_IE. (Remember: Always have your dog on a lead when in public.)
sonny
16 January 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13
STUDY EXPENSES P18
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EDUCATION FOR LIFE Whether you’re a first-time student or want to boost your existing qualifications, there’s a lot to learn about college life – luckily, Dublin Gazette has everything you need to know
GAZETTE
YOGA THERAPY P14 ACCESSIBLE OPTIONS P16
We must embrace lifelong learning for everyone MINISTER OF STATE FOR HIGHER EDUCATION MARY MITCHELL O’CONNOR
LAST year the Sloan School at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) took part in a major conference at Dublin Castle on the Future of Work and how education providers, business and government can prepare our graduates for these challenges. At that conference, we heard how nearly every conversation about the future of work and the modern economy is dominated about the everlooming influence of robotics and intelligent machines. Studies forecast that up to half the jobs we know today will disappear over the next two decades. During 2019, I launched four new Masters’ programmes, two in Dublin City University – one in Artificial Intelligence, the other in the Internet of Things. A further two in NUI Galway – Computer Science and Artificial Intelligence. These programmes are highly innovative in terms of their content. There is a clear need for education to enhance the skillset of graduates facing into a more futuristic workplace. There are currently around 100,000 tech professionals working in Ireland, with another 60,000 projected job opening over the next four years. Greater learning in the In-
formation and Communications Technology (ICT) sector is the future of our jobs. Ireland’s third ICT Action Plan 2019 to 2022 tells us of the demand for professionals with high-level ICT skills. That means the delivery of 5,000 graduates in this area by 2022 to keep up with growth in the sector. That is why facilitating our education system with myriad courses in ICT will not only prepare and train for the technological changes that lie ahead but establish Ireland as a forward-thinking nation and one that is prepared for the incredible changes that lie ahead. And what will a futuristic jobs market look like? The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs report gives us a taster. Calling our times “the Fourth Industrial Revolution” it talks about how the skillsets required in both old and new occupations will change in most industries and transform how and where people work. It says: “Of the children entering primary school today, 65% will end up working in job categories that do not yet exist”. It brings a whole new meaning to the phrase, “when I go grow up, I want to be…” In March 2019 , the government published details of Future Jobs Ireland, which aims to prepare people and companies for coming technological changes.
It takes account of the challenges facing us, then translates these into a small number of impactful and deliverable actions. An immediate aim is to double the “lifelong learning” rate to 18% in six years times. There are plans for a new female entrepreneurship strategy – I have already begun to right the wrongs of gender imbalance at the top level in our higher education institutes. So reader this is why we must embrace lifelong learning for everyone. The future of jobs hangs on an ability to think ahead and allow our imaginations to run. In doing so, we can we prepare for the daunting and unforeseen challenges ahead. Our young students need to be adaptable and flexible, creative and resourceful. They need to be problem-solvers. They need to be researchers in their own right. They need to be innovators. The world is changing so fast that no longer will young people enter a job in their early twenties and exit forty years later with a pension. Our graduates will probably have several careers in their lifetime. The transferable skill that will allow them to navigate this terrain is a passion for life-long learning. As the American philosopher John Dewey observed ‘Education is not preparation for life; education is life itself.’
GAZETTE
14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 16 January 2020
EDUCATION FOR LIFE
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Join Yoga Therapy Ireland as it celebrates 20 years YOGA Therapy Ireland (YT) marks 20 years as a leader in the yoga training sector on Saturday
February 1, with celebrations taking place at Marino Institute of Education.
Events include yoga, chanting and yoga dance with music by Jack Harrison. Lectures by: • Heather Mason, Minded Institute UK: Yoga and Mental Health • Trinity Researcher Michael Melynchuk: The Yogi Masters were right; breathing exercises can
sharpen your mind • Dr Raj Kaur: The Yoga/Ayurveda Connection Special Guests include, Mrs Sabina Higgins, YTI Patron and Mr Sandeep Kumar, Indian Ambassador to Ireland. YTI are passionate advocates of yoga and its benefit for physical,
mental and emotional wellbeing for all. The organisation holds teacher trainings, specialist trainings in pregnancy, sport and children. They also host guest trainers in areas such as cancer care, osteoporosis and autism. For experienced teachers, advanced yoga therapy courses are provided with a strong emphasis on the anatomy and body mechanics.
Relevant YTI is taking the centuries old practice of yoga and applying it to the modern day world; making it relevant for daily life, health concerns and chronic conditions. Yoga Therapy Ireland was founded by five passionate women with a mission to bring yoga to all – in particular those less able bodied and those with impaired health; YTI looks forward to continuing its mission over the next 20 years and its 2020 Vision is to have yoga included in mainstream healthcare and education.
16 January 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15
GAZETTE
16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 16 January 2020
EDUCATION FOR LIFE
Trust Sallynoggin CoFE for a great education experience WHY choose Sallynoggin College of Further Education? Aside from our long history of excellence in the provision of PLC and further education courses, and our track record for student progression to employment or higher education, SCFE
Third level studies are increasingly accessible to everyone, with financial supports and a welcoming attitude towards mature students making your potential area of interest ever more within your reach
is renowned for providing a positive student experience by supporting a holistic approach to education. Our students become involved in many learning experiences above and beyond the curricular requirements. Whether it’s a relaxation session in meditation, yoga or Indian head massage, an activity supporting positive mental health and resilience-building, a fashion show or theatre production, there is always a buzz being created around the college by our students. The buzz doesn’t stop when you finish your course – former students of SCFE are making waves in all corners of the world. One notable former student achiever is Harry Austin, who was awarded The Times Higher Education award for best STEM project, relating to research carried out as part of his PHD study on Characterisation and engineering of a plastic-degrading aromatic polyesterase. Another former student making waves is designer Sarah Murphy, whose custom-designed dress was worn by fashionista and advocate Sinead Burke when she appeared on The Late Late Show in November. To find out more about student life in SCFE, see our Facebook page, and Instagram, at www.scfe.ie. Applications are now open for September – apply online at www.scfe.ie
Third level study becoming increasingly accessible THIRD LEVEL education is becoming increasingly accessible to adults on
both a full-time and a part-time basis. Many colleges and universities hold information events for people who want to study as mature students. The Qualifax website has a calendar of career events that run throughout the year. Third-level colleges reserve a small number of places specifically for mature students who want to participate in full-time day programmes. If you are over 23* you can apply for one of these places. This means that you will compete for your place on a different basis to those who are just leaving school. The number of places reserved for mature students are limited, however, so it is likely that you will still have to compete with your peers. ( * G e n e r a l l y, y o u are considered to be a mature student if you are at least 23 years of age on January 1 of the year you enter your course.) If you are interested in a particular college you should check how it defines a mature student. If you opt for a fulltime course in this way,
you will be expected to attend classes or lectures every day and you will be assessed in the same way as the other students on your course. However, if the fulltime model does not suit you, there are other options available, including part-time courses, modular programmes and distance learning. If you choose to study on a part-time or modular basis, you can spread your studies over a number of years. This gives you the opportunity to organise your time and to study in bursts when it is most convenient for you. It has the obvious drawback that it will take longer to complete than a full-time course, but it also has the advantage that it allows you to work at your own pace, gradually building credits towards your qualification. A modular programme is made up of separate modules, which are selfcontained units within a course. You can study and complete each module separately at different stages during that course. Modular programmes
can take place in regular classroom settings or can be part of a distance learning programme. Modular courses are available at degree level in some universities. The term distance learning covers a wide range of learning programmes that take place away from the physical presence of the classroom and the tutor. If you participate in a distance learning programme, it is likely that you will use a wide range of packaged materials and media throughout your course. Some courses organise periodic classes where students come together for a day, a weekend or a week at a time, in order to study intensively. University access programmes aim to increase the partic ipation of under-represented groups at third-level. They do this by supporting young adults and mature students to study at third-level colleges. Students attending access or foundation courses that are on the Department of Education’s approved list of post-leaving certificate courses may be eligible for funding under the
Student Grant Scheme. However, students attending a foundation or access course in any other college or university will not be eligible for funding. An access or foundation course is considered to be a second-level course for the Back to Education Allowance. You should check your options around access programmes with the university of your choice or local Education and Training Board. Generally, you will need to have completed your Leaving Certificate. However, if you are applying for a place as a mature student, you will not be asked to meet the usual entry requirements. Different courses operate different entry procedures, but, in general, the colleges will take into account your educational background, work history, community involvement and other achievements and interests. This system is known as the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning or Recognition of Prior Learning. In some cases, you may be asked to take an entrance exam.
16 January 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17
TOP 10 TIPS FOR CAO APPLICANTS 1. Save money: apply before january 20 for a reduced application fee. 2. Check to ensure that your name on the CAO application is the same as on your birth certificate and/or passport. 3. The CAO will email you a verification code to complete your application. if you don’t seem to have received this, check your email’s spam folder. 4. Enter the correct years of school attendance – you’d be surprised how many students can’t remember the year in which they started! 5. When creating a password, create one which is just for your cao application; a nice idea is to think about your future course and create a password based on your goal. keep this password in a safe place. 6. You don’t need to f i na l ise you r cou rse choices until july 1st, 2020. However, you can add some course choices when making your initia l application. have those codes to hand when applying; if you get distracted while looking up course codes, your online application may time out and you’ll have to start over. add now, tweak later! 7. if you want to apply for a grant, don’t forget to tick your maintenance fee grant application status on your cao application form. 8.if you have an exemption from irish or a third language, you must modify your nui exemption status on your form. 9. if you are applying for hear or dare, you need to tick the appropriate box on your cao application. for more information on hear and dare schemes, see: www.accesscollege.ie 10. Don’t panic! the application process may seem daunting but, it’s not complicated.
GAZETTE
EDUCATION FORFOR LIFE EDUCATION
Develop your knowledge and skills at Inchicore College THINKING about college? Choose Inchicore College and discover The TEN BEST reasons why you should study with us..... 1. What we’re about – our friendly and welcoming atmosphere where students are central to our purpose. 2. What you can study – our exciting range of innovative courses will meet your interests and needs. 3. How you learn – our class sizes allow for greater individual participation and you can learn in ways that suit you.
4. What we provide – our excellent track record in providing quality-assured full and parttime courses for more than 30 years. 5. What you pay – our lower fees – our courses cost an average of €500 which usually covers all your college requirements for the year. 6. Who we are – our highly qualified staff have vast experience in your chosen area of study and are committed to you and your success. 7. Where you go – the opportunity to work and study in Europe on an Erasmus + programme
in countries such as Sweden, The Netherlands, Spain, Austria, Finland, Slovenia, Italy and France. 8. How you work – our highly regarded work placement programmes enable you to develop your knowledge and skills in your field of study. 9. Where you go next – our graduates go places – we have an outstanding track record for student progression to employment and higher education. 10. How to get here – we are easy to get to by bus, Luas and train.
GAZETTE
18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 16 January 2020
EDUCATION FOR LIFE
Uversity’s scholarships help unlock adult learners’ potential
Unlocking their potential with adult education – scholars Adina Bocotan, Karina Grustane, Helen Noble (TCD) and Lukasz Olszewski (UCD)
WANT to start college in 2020 but not sure how to fund it! Uversity’s Higher Education Scholarships for Adult Learners might be your answer. Since 2018, Uversity has awarded 49 scholarships to mature students to pursue Bachelor’s Degrees for the first time. Uversity’s scholarships provide support throughout the course of the degree and are tailored to Scholars’ circumstances. Eligible applicants must be 23 years and older, a citizen of an EEA member state or
Switzerland and resident in Ireland for 3 years or more by 1st January 2020. They should be returning to higher education after a break from education of 3 years or more or have recently completed a progression / preparation course. Apply They need to apply to a Bachelor’s Programme for 2020/21 or have deferred a place from 2019/20. Successful candidates must be able to demonstrate academic preparation and potential, a
clear motivation and ambition for their education / future, a drive to succeed and strong work ethic. What distinguishes Uversity’s Scholars is their commitment to being transformed and transforming others. Applications for the 2020/21 academic year must be submitted by March 1, 2020 via www. uversity.org. All applications will be reviewed for eligibility and may be shortlisted for interview. See w w w.uversity.org or contact apply@uversity. org for further information.
Get saving now: forward planning by parents pays off for expense of college ACCORDING to financial advisors HerMoney, the average cost of educating a child from primary school to college is estimated to be over €60,000. Furthermore, by far the biggest portion of the expense is incurred during a child’s time in third level education. This is indicated in research done by Technological University (TU) Dublin, which shows that the average cost of going to college for students living away from home is €12,171 for the year. That figure is roughly halved at €6,771 students who continue to live at home. Karen Goodlife, director of HerMoney has advice for parents who are thinking about saving for their child’s future in third level education. She said: “The most important word when it comes to saving for your child’s education is ‘start’. The earlier you start, the easier it is to manage your finances. “For example, if your child is starting college in 16 years’ time, and living away from home, you would now need to save €250 per month in order to accumulate €48,000 by 2035. “Whereas, if your child is starting college in four years’ time, in 2023, you would now need to start saving €1,000
per month,” she said. HerMoney recommends that if your child is starting college within five years time; your best bet is to start a bank or credit union deposit account. The financial advisor says that this is because there is not enough time to look at investment options and you are foregoing growth for safety – HerMoney says to save as much as you can afford and shop around the various institutions to try an achieve the highest interest rate possible. In regards to long-term plans, HerMoney says: “There are a number of investment vehicles available at all levels of investment risk. “Our most popular options available are investment and savings policies through the various life companies. “These policies enable you to invest in a range of funds, from low to medium to high risk and will accept lump sums of money as well as regular monthly savings from as little as €75 per month. “Many of our clients opt to invest in multi-asset funds within these policies which spread their money across a number of different asset types, such as shares, property, bonds and commodities.”
Be aware - interning isn’t always a positive route EXPERIENCE can be the key to gaining employment. But when you’re a college student who has yet to join the workforce, experience is often the one piece of the puzzle that is missing. It is for this reason that one of Ireland’s leading recruitment agencies, Matrix Recruitment, is keen to highlight the benefits of doing an internship before starting out on the career ladder. “While the jobs market in Ireland is buoyant right now, we are finding that college leavers can really struggle to get a foot in the door. “Experience is something that we see our clients looking for more and more as they search for the right candidate and it can really help applicants stand out from the crowd. “An internship is a great way for those starting out to gain experience, but unfortunately internship programmes are not as plentiful as one might think,” Breda Dooley of Matrix Recruitment said. Warning Not all internships are cut from the same cloth, Dooley warns. Some companies take advantage of people who are eager to get worthwhile experience on their CV. Be wary of companies that advertise six-monthlong unpaid internships or seem to have a steady flow of interns entering and exiting the business. Do the maths before you apply for an internship. Check how much it will cost you to travel to and from work experience, will you be using your own phone as part of your work? How will you pay rent and bills If you are interning for free? Are there other expenses to consider, such as paying back a loan?
16 January 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19
GAZETTE
EDUCATION FOR LIFE
A wealth of options open to Leaving Cert students BEATRICE DOOLEY, PRESIDENT OF THE INSTITUTE OF GUIDANCE COUNSELLORS, HAS SOME EXCELLENT ADVICE FOR STUDENTS
P O S T- L e av i n g C e r t (PLC) courses, apprenticeships and traineeships are attractive pathways after the Leaving Certificate. Their graduates are rated highly by Irish employers as graduates from third-level colleges. PLCs offer practical/ academic work and work experience in areas such as business studies, childcare, computing and more. Log onto fetchcourses. ie, a useful link to research and apply to a variety of courses. Application closing dates vary, applications are accepted until all places are filled. With a strong emphasis on practical skills and hands on learning, apprenticeships lead to careers,
where you can “earn while they learn”. A formal contract usually spans 2–4 years, with a minimum 50 percent on-the-job learning, you’re also paid by your employer. Qualifications vary from Level 5 to 10 in NVQ’s. Apprenticeship.ie is the main website with links to specific programmes in different sec-
tors, there is no central application system. Many have deadlines for applications from March/May. Research your eligibility for each programme and how to apply. T h e r e ’s c u r r e n t l y over 52 apprenticeships available in areas like accounting, insurance, engineering, logistics, construction, electrical, engineering, ICT, hospitality, motor with more in development. Traineeships combine learning in education and workplace settings and are delivered by Education & Training Boards (ETBs,) with employers. Traineeships exist in areas identified to have skills shortages, such as business, construction, finance and beauty and offer high employability.
Beatrice Dooley
They are ideal for learners not yet ready to commit to a lengthy course or job. Is Studying abroad popular? Eunicas.ie is an independent application support service which offers advice on the application process for programmes in Europe. Germany, France, the Nordic countries and more offer free university degrees through the English language. Deadlines for applying vary from country to country, and many programmes are still open for entry in 2019. Entry requirements are generally lower than the equivalent courses in Ireland, yet nine Dutch universities are higherranked than Trinity College, Dublin. They just don’t use points! A group of Dutch universities are returning to Dublin on October 23 to meet prospective students. Booking is free, at Eventbrite. If you are looking to study in the UK, UCAS application deadlines
Committed to providing education and training of the highest quality THE programmes we offer are
welcome all ages from school
learner-centred and provided in
leavers to Mature students.
a friendly, inclusive and support-
We are situated 5 minutes from
ive environment. In fact we won
Killester Dart Station which is two
an Award for Excellence through
stops from Connolly Station.
Accessibility in 2011.
PLC Grants; Back to Education
All our courses range from
Allowances; Vocational Training
QQI(FETAC) levels 4, to levels 5
and Opportunities scheme (VTOS)
and 6. They are accredited by
are available.
Quality and Qualifications Ireland
If you are an early school leav-
(QQI) They are qualifications in
er, unemployed, wanting to upskill,
themselves but can also be used
seeking to go on to Third level-we
to progress onto Third Level. We
offer you a platform.
were January 15, but now a second opportunity to apply occurs during Clearing. Research the UCAS website, but first talk to your parents/guardians about the feasibility of funding this option. While the impact of Brexit is unclear, www. ucas.com/brexit provides information on tuition fees and student finance support for EU nationals hoping to start a course in the 2019/20 academic year. Work experience is an excellent way for students to discover what
they are good at and enjoy doing. Building up work experience, gaining transversal skills, independence and developing as a person are all very valuable outcomes of employment. The follow-on chances of gaining employment are high, unemployment levels are low right now at 4.5%. Organisations offering volunteer programmes should be carefully researched as the quality and safety of such programmes can vary significantly.
The Value of Repeating the Leaving Certificate The decision to repeat is not to be taken lightly; it requires ref lection and professional advice, preferably from a qualified guidance counsellor. Any student considering repeating a year should ask themselves, what will I do differently next year to guarantee different results? You can only use Leaving Certificate results from one sitting for points purposes, but you can repeat one subject to satisfy minimum entry requirements.
20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 16 January 2020
DUBLIN STYLE
RIDE ‘EM, COWGIRL!
BeautyBITS
Jo Malone launch new spring fragrance JO MALONE have added a new scent to their Cologne Intense collection, designed to warm the soul with it’s scent through these colder months. The new addition is Vetiver & Golden Vanilla, a combination of Madagascar’s two prized ingredients. The sensual scent opens with a dash of cardamom teamed with the freshness of grapefruit tea, ushering in the earthy depths of native vetiver. Precious Vanilla Bourbon warms and envelops, hand-picked from the jungles of Madagascar. Celine Roux, Global Head of Fragrance at Jo Malone, said: “Through Cologne Intense we want to whisk you away on a journey using ingredients that have a true, strong story. “We consciously magnified the name of the new fragrance with ‘Golden’ to call to mind the warmth of the scent. It’s glowing and bountiful – like the island of Madagascar itself.” The new scent is available now, priced at €135 for 100ml, or €90 for 50ml.
Punk Prairie
Rachel D’Arcy
AS WE COME into the
slightly warmer time of the year - meaning a degree or
two higher than freezing - our minds have turned to what lies ahead for Summer. This year, so-called ‘texan chic’ is playing a part in trends in a big way. From faux leather to
New massage therapy ideal for chronic pain A WOMAN has said her backpain has been greatly helped by the introduction of CBD oil into her daily routine, as well as CBD massages. Eileen Fleming was speaking about the new CBD massage on offer from the CBD Spa, saying massage therapy had been brought to a new level for her. “CBD oil was recommended to me by a trusted friend in March 2019 and not only has it helped my overall mental health and wellbeing, I can hand on heart say it has helped reduce the consistent back pain I suffer from as well as help me get a better nights sleep,” Eileen said. “I’ve had two CBD full body massages now and they both have brought massage therapy to a whole new level for me. The targeted techniques used are ideal for a person like me who suffers from chronic back and nerve pain.” The CBD Spa are offering their massage services now at The Buff Day Spa on South King Street. For more information on CBD massages on offer, see cbdspa.ie.
tassles to prairie style dresses, looking like you’re on your way to a punk concert in the deep south is what’s in this season, for the most part. Whilst most of the high street will be taking a turn at this trend, River Island have launched a range of the styles that will suit all body shapes and all tastes. From tassled statement dresses to ruffled, delicate two-pieces, there’s a garment to suit everyone on offer this Spring and Suffer. All of these styles are available now from River Island.
16 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21
WHAT’S NEW IN THE WORLD OF TRANSPORT
DUBLIN MOTORS An appreciation of a true motoring legend
The all-new Renault Clio is ‘a driver’s car’ offers power, style, safety and terrific value DECLAN GLYNN
THE hotly-anticipated all-new Renault Clio has been launched in Ireland, to much acclaim. With the previous generation Clio proving itself to be a huge sales success for the French manufacturer, the new model could not afford to be anything but perfect. Thankfully, the allnew Clio is the most advanced, most driverfocused, safest, and most comfortable model in the Clio’s illustrious 30-year history. There are four trim levels to choose from in the new Renault Clio – Expression, Dynamique, Iconic, and range-topping RS Line. The new Clio is better equipped than ever before, with even the entry-level Expression model benefiting from full LED headlights, LED daytime running lights, body-coloured door handles and mirrors, and traffic sign recognition. Further features include cruise control
with speed limiter, and heated front seats, along with a suite of active safety systems, including lane-keep assist and automatic emergency braking. Presently, there are four engines to choose from – three petrols, and one diesel. The range starts with the SCe 75, a naturally aspirated 1.0-litre threecylinder unit with 71bhp
that’s only available with a five-speed gearbox. A more sophisticated, turbocharged version of this engine is offered in the TCe 100, producing 99bhp and offered with a five-speed manual, or optional continuously variable transmission (CVT). A four-cylinder petrol engine is offered in the form of the TCe GPF, a 1.3-litre unit that’s
already been used in some much larger Renault cars, including the Megane and Kadjar. It produces 128bhp and only comes in combination with a sevenspeed dual-clutch automatic gearbox. The single diesel engine option is a 1.5litre four-cylinder unit (Blue dCi 85), with 84bhp and a healthy 220Nm of torque. My review car was a Renault Clio RS Line TCe 100, which looked amazing in Iron Blue metallic paint. On the road, the new Clio proved itself to be a fun, proficient car to drive, with excellent driving dynamics for an overall terrific driving experience. Well-weighted steering and solid brakes ensure that the new Clio is a true driver’s car, while excellent levels of damping allows the car to handle road imperfections with ease. Pricing for the new Clio starts at just €17,195 and represents terrific
THE late, great, Henry Ford (right) was ahead of his time in more ways than one. He is best remembered for pioneering assembly-line low-cost car manufacturing, his Model T, and his famous slogan: “You can have any colour, as long as it is black”. Henry Ford launched his Ford Motor Company in 1913, and it has grown in to a global vehicle manufacturing giant. He was known to be in favour of ‘lightweight’ engineering, believing that the most beautiful things in the world are those from which all excess weight has been eliminated. Ford was also to the forefront of cutting prices to boost sales. Parallel to his simple design philosophy was
his belief that sales would go up, not so much by improving the product, but by lowering the price. He also rightly believed that building a car and just selling it was not enough. He once said that a car was 75% complete when it left the factory, and the other 25% was done by the dealers. Ford would be proud of the blue oval firm he founded back in 1913. What the world needs now are more people like good ol’ Uncle Henry.
22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 16 January 2020
DUBLIN SENIORS
This week, we look at some of the common challenges for CHALLENGE YOUR BRAIN...JUST FOR FUN!your money people in retirement, and managing
Tips for managing your money in retirement Common challenges for people in retirement THE three main challenges that people are faced with in retirement are identity, routine and relationships. Identity Identity can be a challenge because for many people, they describe themselves by what they do rather than by whom they are. This change may also impact the spouse/ partner whose own identity may be categorised to that of their partner. Routine For a very long time, there has been a definite rhythm to life (alarm, commute, work, commute, non-work activities) five days a week, every week. When the world of work is no more, they get 50 hours per week back every week for the rest of their life. What new routine will the retiree establish? Every day is a weekend. For many, the real issue is what to do with their time, not finances at all! Relationships The Retirement Planning Council of Ireland suggests relationship dynamics face a challenge. Partners may now be spending more time in each other’s company than they have for years. Beware of doing everything together as the conversation may dry up. Plan for separate as well as joint activities and conversation will thrive. Thinking, communicating and planning are key fundamentals in helping to deal with these challenges. Think about what a typical week or month would look like. Do not plan every minute of every hour, but rather plan for chunks of time. Discussing your ideas with spouse/ partner/ family and friends is important – don’t assume they will fit in with you (the retiree)! Be flexible, but it is important to learn to say “no” as others may assume that you (the retiree) have nothing else to do and may try to organise things. You may begin to resent them if you don’t have time to do the things you want to do. Planning to include a purpose or a reason to get out of bed. Start with a mental challenge such as volunteering, return to education, working on, hobbies, sport, etc. Maintaining/ developing a social network of real people is king. Remember many of your friends will still be working and so will not be available to socialise with you during the daytime. Did you know 80% of our contacts are through work, only 20% are family and friends. Developing new friends has proven to be vital in living a long, healthy and happy retirement.
THE Retirement Planning Council of Ireland (RPCI) is advising retirees to get organised and start thinking about their finances this January. By establishing new saving and spending habits, retirees can avoid falling victim to common financial mistakes in 2020. Make a plan The average worker gets back 50 hours per week in retirement and according to the RPCI, it is easier to spend money when you are not working. Establishing a plan will allow retirees to closely monitor income and outgoings to ensure they have a grasp of their financial position. Co u rs e L e a d e r fo r the Retirement Planning Council of Ireland and former Pensions Ombudsman Paul Kenny said: “It is useful to know what’s coming in, and when, what the likely expenditure is, and when it is likely to arise. “That way, you can anticipate large outgoings (such as a tank of heating oil) and put some money aside regularly for those. “New retirees should budget for miscellaneous spending each month, including coffees, lunches, books and clothes. It is also
a good idea to use cash during the first weeks of retirement – as it feels like real spending – instead of tapping a bank card, where the charge might not be taken from your account for 2-3 working days. This is recommended to measure and control spending.” File a tax return According to Paul, one of the first steps to take is to file a tax return. PAYE tax payers, should make sure they complete a tax return to ensure they are getting the allowances and credits they are entitled to.
“First off – and this doesn’t just apply to retirees – make a tax return. People on PAYE often don’t feel the need to make regular returns, but it is a useful way of ensuring that you get all your entitlements, such as age allowance. Revenue can also look back over four years, to see if there are things you missed out on previously.” Spread out payments The not-for-profit organisation is also advising retirees to look at spreading out payments over a period rather than being
met with lump sum payments. “Many companies, such as motor and home insurers, will allow payments to be spread over most of the year, in some cases without any extra charge.” Shop around The RPCI also notes the importance of shopping around with different service providers to get the best deals. “Retirees should look to shop around and be open to switching service providers in order to save money. Bonkers.ie is a free and impartial service,
where you can compare charges for gas and electricity, broadband, phone and TV providers, banking services and insurances such as life, health and serious illness cover. Ask for discounts “Older people should also be aware of discounts that are available in retirement. “Many retailers offer discounts to older people, usually on specified days of the week. Some gyms offer reduced membership prices for daytime hours, when other members are at work.”
Key features of the Assisted Decision Making (Capacity) Act THE Assisted Decision Making (Capacity) Act applies to everyone and has relevance for all health and social care services. The Key features of the Assisted Decision Making (Capacity) Act are: • It applies to everyone and to all health and social care settings. • It provides for the individual’s right of autonomy and self-determination to be respected through an Enduring Power of Attorney and an Advance Healthcare Directive – made when a person has capacity to come into effect when they may lack decision-making capacity.
• It provides for legally recognised decision-makers to support a person maximise their decision-making powers. • It places a legal requirement on service providers to comprehensively enable a person make a decision through the provision of a range of supports and information appropriate to their condition. • It abolishes the Wards of Court system. • It provides for a review of all existing wards to either discharge them fully or to transition those who still need assistance to the new structure. • It repeals the Lunacy regulations gov-
erning the Ward of Court system. • It establishes a Decision Support Service with clearly defined functions which will include the promotion of public awareness relating to the exercise of capacity by persons who may require assistance in exercising their capacity. • The Director of the Decision Support Service will have the power to investigate complaints in relation to any action by a decision-maker in relation to their functions as such decision-maker. For further information see Citizens Information - Incapacity or get legal advice.
16 January 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23
CHALLENGE YOUR BRAIN...JUST FOR FUN!
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16 January 2020 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 27
SOCCER P29
THE BEST IN DUBLIN
SPORT
NUMBER CRUNCHING: BOXING: WITH her injury troubles hopefully in the past, world champion boxer Kellie Harrington is optimistic for the future and believes the use of data analytics can take her to the next level. The Glasnevin fighter sustained a thumb injury at the European Gameswhich cost her most of the second half of the year, but she is now nearing a return to the ring.
GAZETTE
FOOTBALL P31
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LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS INFORM YOU OF THE HIGHLIGHTS AND SCORES OF YOUR FAVOURITE TEAMS RUGBY | LEINSTER CONTINUE PERFECT RUN ON ALL FRONTS
RDS beckons for quarters sport@dublingazette.com
LEINSTER all but secured a home Champions Cup quarter-final with a six-try, 42-14 victory over French side Lyon at the RDS on Sunday afternoon. The Blues’ ninth successive Champions Cup win – a first in the club’s history – ensured a draw away to bottom-placed Treviso on Saturday will guarantee home advantage in the last eight. A brace from wing Dave Kearney and further tries from Josh van der Flier, Max Deegan, Sean Cronin and Andrew Porter saw Leinster bring up a fourth try bonus point of the pool stages. Leinster dominated territory in the first half but, despite scoring three tries, held a slender seven-point advantage at the break as Lyon made good use of their meagre possession. Tries from Virgil Bruni and, three minutes before half time, Hendrick Roadt kept Leo Cullen’s side honest but they added three unanswered scores in the second half to put gloss on the scoreline.
Leinster hit the front after nine minutes as quick thinking from Ross Byrne, taking a quick penalty to pick out James Lowe with a crossfield pass, and he batted the ball inside for Kearney to crash over. Byrne added the extras on a day when he would land a flawless five kicks from five, and a lovely offload from scrum-half Luke McGrath sent van der Flier through for the second four minutes later. Lyon weren’t prepared to lie down as they battled to maintain their slim hopes of qualification, and number eight Bruni picked off a loose pass from Garry Ringrose to stride home under the posts. Byrne and Lowe linked up once more on the half-hour as the New Zealand-born wing once again provided the skilful offload for Kearney to dot down, his ninth try in as many games. Once again, Lyon fought back and Roadt was the beneficiary as a series of pick-and-goes on the Leinster line ended with the South African lock burrowing over the line. Leinster upped the tempo in the
Leo Cullen was pleased with how his side’s accuracy improved in the second half against Lyon. Picture: Martin Doherty
second half and, after Felix Lambey was yellow-carded for cynical play, Deegan brought up the bonus point with a well-taken try under the sticks. Replacement hooker Cronin added the fifth try off the back of a maul following Xavier Mignot’s sin-binning before another sub in Porter forced home a sixth late on.
“There were a lot of stoppages in the game and we never got any real rhythm,” said Cullen. “We looked a little bit edgy in the dressing room at half-time. In the second half the players applied themselves well, put more pressure on Lyon and were a bit more accurate in what they were doing.”
SPORT CONTACT INFO SPORTS EDITOR: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@dublingazette.com
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28 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 16 January 2020
CLUB NOTES
ROUND
2 1
BALLYMUN KICKHAMS LUCAN SARSFIELDS GREAT NEWS: Our nurseries return next Saturday the 18th January both venues at the WELL done to the Juniorat A la usual times. Time for the children to run off the selection boxes and get back into their Saturday morning fun routine. The executive committee would like to express our condolences to Gerry (Josh) Butler and family on their recent bereavement. Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam. We held our AGM last Friday and with an excellent attendance level and lively debate, we look forward to 2020 with renewed optimism and vigour. A full list of the new incoming executive officers are available on our website here: http://www.ballymunkickhams.com/ the-executive-for-2020/ Our artificial pitch replacement is well underway, and we advise all juvenile teams that during this process, Pairc Ciceam will essentially be a building site and therefore out of bounds for safety reasons. We ask all juvenile teams to please comply with this rule. It’s envisaged that the pitch will be completed by the middle of February (weather permitting).
Harrington taking analytical approach to Tokyo 2020 bid BRADLEY WEST
sport@dublingazette.com
O’TOOLE’S TRAINING for all teams will recommence soon. Our Nursery are back this Saturday the 18th. Our 16 boys are already back (eager beavers), the 12’s boys on the 20th and the U16 girls on the 21st. O’Toole’s will be a hive of activity for the new season. David Needham is facilitating a Foundation GAA Coaching course on both Wednesday the 22nd and 29th of January. Both nights must be completed in order to be certified. Please contact David directly for more information and to book your place. It is very important for mentors/ helpers to complete this course. You can get cosy in a Club onesie for the rest of the winter. The retailer will be here this Saturday from 9:30am. O’Toole’s send our deepest sympathy to the family of Martin Dunne who passed away recently. Martin was responsible for running a very successful camogie team here in O’Toole’s. He was instrumental in developing skills and nurturing the talents of the girls. His 4 daughters also played for the club and his son was also a trainer (in fact, O’Toole’s made it to the All-Ireland Final in the U14 Camogie Féile under this management team). One of
BOXING: PORTLAND ROW FIGHTER KEEN TO PUT 2019 INJURIES
our camogie team wrote the following in acknowledgement and gratitude for the tremendous effort and time Martin put into helping the girls. ”Mr. Dunne thank you so much for all you’ve done for a lot of us over the years. As young girls to discover Camogie was life changing. At the end of the road was not just “a Green” (where we played) but a path to self-discovery. Being part of Cameron Park Camogie was one of the best things that ever happened for us. We learned so much about ourselves, we met some lifelong friends, some played for our County, we had a purpose in teenage life and most importantly we had fun! You were patient, encouraging, tactical and clever about the game, you thought us respect, discipline and self-worth, you brought out the best in us and they were great days. All those skills you passed onto us have stood us in good ground not just as Camogie players but in life situations too. Thank you so much.” Entertainment this weekend in our lounge. Saturday: ‘Sidetrax’ and on Sunday:‘Double Digits’* There was no winner of the first Club Lotto of 2020. The numbers drawn were 3, 8, 16, 17.
WITH her injury troubles hopefully in the past, world champion boxer Kellie Harrington is optimistic for the future and believes the use of data analytics can take her to the next level. The Glasnevin Boxing Club fighter sustained a thumb injury at the European Games, which forced her to miss the final and has subsequently cost her most of the second half of the year, but she is now nearing a return to the ring. The setback, which also cost her the chance to face European bronze medallist Amy Broadhurst at the national finals late last year, was particularly disappointing as it followed a 2018 in which the 29-yearold enjoyed the best year of her career – winning lightweight world cham-
pionships gold in New Delhi. However, Tokyo has her full attention now and Harrington believes she is in great shape to secure her place at the Games should she get the nod to compete at the European Olympic Qualifying Tournament in London in March. She does so with new technical support on board with SAS who are the new offical analytics partner of the Sport Ireland Institute. “Since SAS came on board, it has helped me so much with my preparation,” Harrington said speaking at a media event which highlighted the benefits of data analytics for elite athletes and coaches. “We can understand the weaknesses [of my opponents] through the data, I’ll be able to do my bit in training and the coach will be able to relay back to me
what he has seen in the numbers. “The analytics also allow me to see what is working for me and what isn’t, if I use a jab I can see what’s coming after the jab.” The partnership with SAS is part of the Sport Ireland Institute’s aim to be more data-driven and, crucially, drive improved training and performance in order to enhance the success of Irish athletes
ahead of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. For now, swimming and boxing is the focus of the work but it could be expanded in the future and Harrington is already seeing the benefits from analysing performance data. She added: “I use analytics in my training a lot, my coaches go through previous and future opponents and look at all their
good and bad attributes. “They carry that into the training sessions and then have me do stuff that would work against a certain opponent from the information that they’ve got. “The analytics is very tailored into what I’m going to do, it really helps.” ** SAS is the Official Analytics Partner of the Sport Ireland Institute
Malcolm pivotal for Rathgar
Rathgar’s Tom Kemsley (wearing 17) celebrates his goal. Picture: Adrian Boehm
STUART Malcolm played a pivotal role as Rathgar won a 4-3 dust-up against Avoca in the first Leinster men’s Hockey league game of 2020, closing the gap on third place to one point. Malcolm gave them lead the from a short corner which deflected in off an Avoca defender. The response came within five minutes from another set piece, Richard Couse continuing where he left off before Christmas, catching out Matt Breton with a drag-flick. Malcolm restored the lead from another drag to the bottom right-hand corner only for Couse to equalise for a second time. He produced some
slick skills on the baseline to slide the ball in on his reverse, 2-2. The hosts, though, took the lead for a third time from another corner, Malcolm turning provider this time, finding Tom Kemsley at the back post. Rathgar extended the lead to 4-2 in the third quarter when the ball broke to John Willoughby in the circle and he beat a couple of defenders before slipping the ball past the Avoca keeper. Avoca did make it a tight finish pulling the score back to 4-3 with four minutes to play from an Oisin O’Halloran sweep.
16 January 2020 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 29
FIRMLY IN THE PAST
SOCCER: DALYMOUNT CLUB LOOKING FORWARD TO NEW YEAR
Bohs name new bosses LEAGUE OF IRELAND YOUTH LEAGUES sport@dublingazette.com
Glasnevin BC fighter Kellie Harrington
NATIONAL LEAGUE
McCann off to flying start in indoor opener
DUBLIN City Harriers’ Jodie McCann put in a brave front running performance to hold off North Down AC’s Rachel Gibson in the 1,500m in round one of the national indoor league. The two opened up a slight gap ahead of Ciara Wilson (DMP.A.C) before battling it out on the final lap. McCann ended in 4:32.25, a mere 0.12 seconds ahead of Gibson in the final reckoning. Picture: Ben McShane/Sportfile
BOHEMIANS confirmed a high quality coaching line-up for their youth teams for the year ahead with Gavin Teehan appointed manager of the Under-19s, recently-retired club skipper Derek Pender over the Bohs-SKB Under-17s while Keith Roche will take charge of the BohsSKB Under-15s. Teehan arrives from Bray Wanderers-St Joseph’s Under-17s; welcoming him to the club, first-team manager Keith Long said: “Gavin is a great developmental coach and has good experience of schoolboy football at St Joseph’s and Cabinteely. “It’s a change, coming from Under-17s to 19s football but Gavin has a track record of bringing players through.” The Bohs’ Under-19s have enjoyed success in recent years, winning the league in 2018, retaining it in 2019, as well as winning the Enda McGuill Cup. They have ably represented Ireland in the Uefa Youth League the past two seasons under the guidance Craig Sexton, who stepped down at the end of the season. In doing so, and with the club working closely with partners at St Kevin’s Boys, their player pathway programme has seen players promoted from the youth ranks to Long’s first team. Former Bohs Under-19s/Bohs-SKB underage players Andy Lyons, Danny Grant, Paddy Kirk, Ross Tierney, Ryan Graydon and Dawson Devoy all made the step-up to first-team football at Bohemians over the past three seasons. Other notable graduates include Warren O’Hora, now with Brighton, and Ali Reghba, who joined Leicester City last summer. Long said: “Success at Under-19s level comes in tandem with developing players ready for the first team and we want that to continue. “But it might be a season of transition as there has been a big turnover of players and it will take time for him to implement ideas. We’re looking forward to a new voice and new ideas to help develop young talent and Gavin has that.” Pender, who hung up his boots at the end of the season after eight seasons with the Bohs first team, will take charge of the Bohs-SKB
Derek Pender, in action against Dundalk last October, will manage the Bohs-SKB Under-17 side. Picture: Martin Doherty
Under-17s in his first step to his coaching career. He succeeds Jimmy Mowlds, who has opted to leave, and Bohemians wish to express their gratitude for his service to the club and to the Bohs-SKB partnership. Pender will be assisted by Rory Kirk, older brother of Bohs first-teamer Paddy, who has developed a reputation as a respected young coach at St Kevin’s Boys. Most recently, he has worked with St Kevin’s Under-14s, many of whom will form part of the Bohs-SKB Under-15s team this year.
Long added: “It’s a great opportunity for Derek to cut his teeth in coaching. But it’s a huge opportunity for young players to learn from one of the most experienced and professional players in the league too. “Again, he will also need time to implement his ideas and he will be ably assisted by Rory, who is a very respected with St Kevin’s.” Roche succeeds Ger Browne as manager of the Bohs-SKB Under-15s having coached with St Kevin’s for four years. Karl Lambe remains in charge of the BohsSKB U13s.
Brunell show DCU no Mercy in semi BASKETBALL
sport@dublingazette.com
DCU Mercy were denied a spot in the Hula Hoops National Cup final by Singleton Supervalu Brunell 75-68 in a thrilling game at Neptune Stadium on Saturday evening. DCU started brilliantly as Ashley Russell scored nine points to go with her five early rebounds for a 22-15 end of quarter lead. Brunell, though, fought back in the second quarter to lead 37-34 at the big break and they went on to lead by eight points via a Katie Walshe three-pointer.
The stand-out performance from Rachel Huijsdens limited the damage and DCU found themselves level after a midrange jumper by Meredith Burkhall midway through the quarter. Sarah Woods knocked down back to back jump-shots and scored a fastbreak lay-up in the closing stages of the quarter as Mercy took a one-point lead going into the final quarter. But Brunell swung the pendulum back their way in the fourth and final quarter as Laura Morrissey and Greta Tamsanskaite hit back-to-back threes. A huge Tamasanskaite three
and a fifth foul on both Hannah Thornton and later, Meredith Burkhall, made things even tougher for DCU as they trailed by 11 with less than five minutes
remaining. Brunell continued to push, with their standout stars Aryn McClure, Treyanna Clay and Walshe guiding them home by seven points.
DCU’s Rachel Huisjdens in action. Picture: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
30 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 16 January 2020
RUGBY: STUDENTS START 2020
FOOTBALL: INNER CITY CLUB SEEKING 2020 REVIVAL
Joseph’s/OCB’s big plans STEPHEN FINDLATER
sport@dublingazette.com
Dublin University picked up a vital third win of the season. Picture: Philip Duke
Nicholson’s crucial try earns vital third victory for Trinity AIL DIVISION 1A Dublin University Terenure College sport@dublingazette.com
13 6
HOOKER Mark Nicholson pounced for a decisive 58th-minute try to give Dublin University a much-needed 13-6 win over Terenure College in Energia All-Ireland League Division 1A. In a largely attritional game played in testing wet conditions at College Park, Nicholson’s converted effort was enough to end the students’ five-match losing streak. The result saw them gain some revenge for last month’s 34-20 away defeat to Terenure. Trinity were boosted by the return of Leinster starlet Rowan Osborne at scrum half, and unfortunately his opposite number Tim Schmidt – son of former Ireland head coach Joe, an interested spectator on the day – was forced off with an early injury. After Micheal O’Kennedy missed a seventh-minute penalty for the hosts, Terenure settled into the contest and James Thornton kicked them ahead in the 13th minute from a tricky position on the left. ‘Nure had a series of attacking penalties in the second quarter and, while their lineout attempts failed to produce a try, the sin-binning of Trinity lock Arthur Greene gave them an obvious advantage. Credit to Tony Smeeth’s youngsters, they knuckled down and largely dominated possession in Greene’s absence. Their attack was beginning to click at 3-0 down at the interval, and O’Kennedy duly split the posts just four minutes into the second half. Thornton missed a kickable chance into a stiff breeze, and with clearcut opportunities at a premium, the prospect of a low-scoring draw loomed large. That was until Osborne exploited a gap in the ‘Nure defence and quickly offloaded for Nicholson to touch down behind the posts. O’Kennedy converted for a 10-3 scoreline. Terenure answered back with a lung-busting break from deep by Stephen O’Neill. Thornton followed up with a successful penalty to reduce the arrears to four points. The students maintained their composure, though, and an O’Kennedy three-pointer edged them closer to a precious victory. Mid-table Nure pushed with their might for a levelling try in the dying embers. A late lineout produced a final assault on the Trinity whitewash, but the second-from-bottom hosts dug deep and a defensive turnover brought this tense encounter to a close. Elsewhere, Clontarf were edged out 11-10 by Ballynahinch at Ballymacarn Park. Lansdowne were one-point winners against UCC with a 19-18 success at the Aviva Stadium courtesy of tries from Mark Hernan, Dan Sheehan and Jack O’Sullivan.
ST JOSEPH’S OCB are hoping to find the next batch of inner-city heroes as they look to revive the footballing arm of the famous club. Manager John Archbold feels the elements are in place for major growth if the people of East Wall, Ballybough, North Wall and Summerhill can get behind his project following a rough spell for the club. Founded over a century ago, St Joseph’s quickly through the ranks, winning a maiden senior football championship in 1930 and was the starting ground for over 34 Dublin county players. But the migration of the innercity population out to the suburbs saw the club struggle for numbers as time went on, leading to their amalgamation with Summerhill-based O’Connell Boys – the home of Dublin legend Paddy Cullen – in 1989. Since then, the adult football side has dropped down to AFL Division 10 and deep into the junior ranks but ‘Archie’ – who won a Junior B championship with the club in 2004 – says the elements are coming into place to revive fortunes. The first piece of the puzzle saw the club open their new clubhouse on Seville Place under the old railway arches in 2013
St Jospeh’s OCB - with the 2017 innercity trophy - are looking to make big moves with their footballers this year
with a state-of-the-art gym available. And the club has enjoyed a big rise through the ranks on the hurling front, winning three successive championships with a F title in 2016, the E crown in 2017 and, in 2018, they took home the D championship. The manager is delighted to have a full panel in place for their opening football session of 2020 and says there is big scope to build momentum. “We have got together a good few influential people to help with the team with the league coming up in about three weeks time,” he told Dublin
AIL DIVISION 1B Malone deny Wes top spot
OLD WESLEY fell 12-9 to Malone
in Donnybrook to miss out on the chance to go top of AIL Division 1B. Title rivals Highfield were well beaten at Shannon but Wesley, in their first game since the turn of the year, were unable to capitalise as the Ulster side Dave Cave and Angus Kernohan went over for tries. Rory Stynes kicked three penalties in reply but it was not enough in the final reckoning. Picture: Ken Richardson
Gazette. “Despite a long struggle, we are somehow still going. The rate of decline of GAA in the innercity area of Dublin in the last 40 years has been phenomenal but St Joseph’s OCB are very proud to still be flying the GAA flag. “We have big plans to get things going in 2020. There was a full panel there in terrible conditions last Saturday, a great platform to build from and we have everything in place to make a real go of things for the footballers. “The gym in the clubhouse is top class and we are working under the lights at the all-weather in
Thomas Street on Thursdays. “What we need now is for the people of East Wall and the local area to get up and support us. “We are appealing to all GAA fans and sports enthusiasts to come out and support your local club.” Weekend trainings are taking place in Fairview Park where they now have access to an additional pitch. From this jump-off, they are keen to develop a youth section in the club. ** If you want to get involved with St Joseph’s OCB, contact John Archbold on 086 321 2478.
16 January 2020 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 31
FOOTBALL: FARRELL’S REIGN STARTS WITH DEFEAT BUT BIG GUNS TO RETURN FOOTBALL
U-20s caught by late Kildare surge
Longford’s Iarla O’Sullivan and Dublin’s Niall Walsh contest possession. Picture: Bernie Farrell
Dessie’s experimental Dubs lose to Longford O’BYRNE CUP SEMI-FINAL Longford 1-13 Dublin 3-6 CÓILÍN DUFFY sport@dublingazette.com
DESSIE FARRELL may have got off to a losing start as Dublin senior football manager but there were plenty of positives to take from this O’Byrne Cup semi-final at Glennon Brothers Pearse Park on Saturday. The visitors made full use of the rolling substitutes rule, and gave game-time to 26 players with many of Dublin’s established senior stars still away on holidays. Cuala’s Niall O’Callaghan netted twice with Templeogue Synge Street’s Killian O’Gara getting the other in what was a potential trial for many of the faces to be part of the Allianz League squad which begins against Kerry on January 25 at Croke Park. “The objective today was to give fellas a run out,” Farrell said after the game. “Obviously we want to identify a couple of players that we can bring forward into the official squad. “It was good to get back out on the pitch after the last couple of weeks. It’s all about the football at the end of the day, and it was great to kick off today. “The players come back from their holidays over the next couple of days, and
back to training next week and focus on the opener.” Stephen Cluxton was among those in the large travelling crowd that watched an experimental Metropolitan outfit come acropper to Longford, just as they did at the same stage in the same venue back in 2016. In a tight and keenly contested encounter, little separated the sides throughout but it was Longford who made the more impressive start. The hosts led by 0-4 to 0-1 at the end of the first quarter, with Rian Brady and Darren Gallagher among their early scorers, and Lucan Sarsfields clubman CJ Smith keeping Dublin in touch. Dublin made the first of 23 substitutions over the contest with Ross McGowan replacing Cian Murphy, before the only goal of the tie. O’Gara found the net for the visitors opening goal soonafter, before being substituted - a fate that also befell O’Callaghan after he bagged his second goal 20 minutes from time. O’Gara’s effort levelled the tie in the 19th minute before a raft of Dublin subs, with the Templeogue Synge Street clubman replaced by Scott Fulham. Longford regained the lead through a point from play by Rian Brady, but this was cancelled out by Diarmuid McLoughlin, who landed a fine score off his left
boot. Ballyboughal’s Gerry Seaver put the visitors ahead but an Oran Kenny score ensured the sides were tied 1-3 to 0-6 at the break. O’Callaghan, brother of senior star Con, found the net for the first time inside the opening minute of the second half, but Longford fought back with 1-2 unanswered, including a 45th minute Kevin Diffley goal.
Dublin offered the perfect response four minutes later, when O’Callaghan netted for a second time to push his side into a two-point lead. Longford battled hard in a keenly contested final quarter, with Dublin leading 3-6 to 1-10 in the 64th minute, before the hosts grabbed three unanswered points, including scores from Darren Gallagher and Darragh Doherty on the way to a onepoint win.
The midfield battle in Pearse Park. Picture: Bernie Farrell
A LATE scoring surge saw Kildare secure a draw with Dublin in Saturday’s John Kerins U20 Football Development League at Manguard Plus Hawkfield. Dublin led by four points as the game moved into added time before a Findlay Nairn goal and Shane O’Sullivan free saw Kildare draw level before the full-time whistle. The Dubs face Laois in their concluding game this Saturday following their narrow lose to Meath and draw with Kildare. Dublin face Wicklow in the Leinster Under20 football championship first round on Saturday, February 8. Luke Swan kicked three early points for the Dubs with Ciarán Archer converting a free to give the Dubs a 0-4 to 0-0 lead. Kildare responded before points from Mark Lavin and Seán Lowry settled Dublin again. The Lilywhites, however, took the lead courtesy of four frees from Shane O’Sullivan before scores from Mark Lavin and Lorcan O’Dell helped Dublin to a 0-9 to 0-7 interval lead. Dublin scored four of the opening six points of the second half with Pádraig Purcell doing well and with 15 minutes remaining Tom Gray’s side were six points clear. Darragh Kirwan’s goal from the Lilywhites brought them back into contention but still Dublin led by four points late on before Kildare snatched a draw with Findlay Nairn’s goal and Shane O’Sullivan’s equalising free.
GazetteSPORT JANUARY 16-22, 2020
ALL OF YOUR DUBLIN CITY SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31
DUBS RING THE CHANGES GAELIC GAMES:
Dessie Farrell’s Dublin footballers give new faces a chance in O’Byrne semi-final date with Longford. SEE P31
BOXING CLEVER BOXING: Kellie Harrington looking forward to her ring return with extra analytical data in her armoury. SEE P28
BOHS BOSSES REVEALED SOCCER:
Dalymount club confirm new line-up of youth team coaches for the 2020 season ahead. SEE P29
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Killester killer instinct prevails in Cork semi BASKETBALL STEPHEN FINDLATER
sport@dublingazette.com
P Y RO B E L K i l l e s t e r coach Karl Kilbride said his side’s remarkable fighting spirit left him “wrecked” as the club landed a place in the Hula Hoops Women’s Paudie O’Connor National Cup final. They overcame Ambassador UCC Glanmire in a 82-79 thriller at Neptune Stadium, learning their lessons from harsh, heavy defeats at the hands of their opponents. “I don’t even know how the girls feel but I am wrecked! I’m so proud,” he said in the moments after the win. “We went down big early, we did it before against them and they killed us. We did it two months ago as well. I’m so proud we had the resilience to keep fighting and fighting.” Crucial to the tie was how his line-up managed the skills of American pro Shrita Parker who landed 38 points for Glanmire. It helped them to a 26-19 lead in the first quarter and a 44-38 advantage at half-time. With Adella Randle El, Christa Reed and Rebecca Nagle firing, the Dubliners pegged it back to a one-point game at 66-65 only for Glanmire to eke out a 70-65 lead with under seven minutes to go. But Killester got to grips with her in the endgame and Aisling
Pyrobel Killester’s players celebrate their victory on the final buzzer in Cork. Picture: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
“I don’t even know how the girls feel but I am
wrecked! I’m so proud we had the resilience to keep fighting and fighting.“ McCann nailed a perfect three-pointer to swing the tie their way. “What a game from Parker!” Kilbride continued. “It wasn’t like we hadn’t prepared for her – we had but she was just great. As good as she was, for those last three or four minutes our team defence did it. “Christa Reed was incredible to get us some
baskets when we needed them. We didn’t want regrets – not taking shots, not boxing out – our defence was sensational. It allowed us to play with freedom, shoot a lot of threes and we don’t have regrets now. I’m delighted – so delighted.” It puts them through to a final date with Singleton Supervalu Brunell who upset league leaders
DCU Mercy 75-68 in the other semi-final. The men’s final will be an all Dublin affair with DBS Eanna and Templeogue only having a short hop to make across the M50 to the National Basketball Arena in a few weeks time, Templeogue shaded Coughlan C&S Neptune 78-75. Speaking afterwards, head coach Mark
Keenan stated: “I’ve mixed emotions. I don’t think we played very well, but it’ll sink in soon that we actually won. “Semi-finals can be games like that, you still have to try and win them, we found a way in the fourth quarter to get in front. “Neil [Randolph] hit a massive three to put us in the lead and we got a lot
of energy from that. “I am delighted, I’m thrilled we got through, but we will need to play a lot better than that.” For Eanna, they are continuing to live the dream in their first year back at Super League level as they booked their place in their first ever men’s cup final with a 78-63 point win over Garvey’s Tralee Warriors.