DublinGazette FEBRUARY 6-12, 2020
POLSKA GAZETA GAZETA: Our new section has
the second part of our interview with the new Polish ambassador SEE PAGE 25
SPORT SOCCER:
Kirk hoping to kick on with Bohs in 2020. SEE P33
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THE LATEST NEWS & SPORT FROM THE DUBLIN CITY COUNCIL AREA
New city suburb gets green-light CÓILÍN DUFFY A NEW suburb for Dublin City is on the way, after Dublin City Council gave the green-light to the provision of 3,500 homes close to the mouth of the River Liffey. The development in Ringsend will
encompass the former Irish Glass Bottle site, and will also take in a smaller nearby property. The streets, public spaces, transportation and water services infrastructure will be developed by the receivers of Becbay and Fabrizia Developments, which will take in over 15 hectares, and
subsequently will be called Poolbeg West. A new coastal park will also be constructed called ‘The Promenade’, with a dog park and new school also included in the proposed development, which aims ‘to deliver a sustainable community’. SEE MORE NEXT WEEK
Metro Hotel reopens
BALLYMUN and Santry has received a major boost with the reopening of the Metro Hotel, Dublin Airport at Santry Cross this week. The 88-bedroom hotel was forced to close after suffering significant fire damage, which started in an adjoining apartment in March 2018. The complex reopened last Monday with a significantly enhanced offering, aimed at attracting a 4-star rating.
SEE PAGE 2
2 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 6 February 2020
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REBUILT: 88-BEDROOM BALLYMUN HOTEL REOPENS AFTER 2018 FIRE
Big boost as Metro Hotel reopens after gutting fire CÓILÍN DUFFY cduffy@dublingazette.com
BALLYMUN and Santry has received a major boost with the reopening of the Metro Hotel, Dublin Airport at Santry Cross this week. The 88-bedroom hotel was forced to close after suffering significant fire damage, which started in an adjoining apartment in March 2018. The complex reopened
last Monday with a significantly enhanced offering, aimed at attracting a 4-star rating. Since the closure, the Metro Hotel has underwent a major refurbishment to the tune of €20 million, focusing on the needs of families and business travellers arriving via Dublin Airport. Located only a short bus shuttle from the airport, the hotel caters to a national and international
audience offering accommodation, enhanced meeting facilities and the ever popular ‘The Kitchen’ bar and restaurant. Another boost to the local economy is the news that 50 permanent staff will be taken on by the hotel, in addition to parttime employment. The 50 permanent staff, includes 10 staff members who were retained throughout the reinstatement.
The rebuilt Metro Hotel above and below right the hotel burning back in March 2018
It’s believed that the hotel will also support an estimated 100 indirect jobs in local businesses and suppliers arising from increased footfall and tourism related spending in the area. Commenting, Mark Williams, General Manager of the Metro Hotel Dublin Airport, said: “During the closure we reinstated and substantially improved our hotel and we are thrilled to announce a re-
opening date of 3rd February 2020. “We very much look forward to opening our doors to returning and new customers and we are very pleased to be creating and supporting local jobs. “As we look forward to the opportunities that lie ahead for the Metro Hotel and for the broader community, we must also acknowledge the support
a n d b e s t wishes received following the fire in 2018 and also our enormous relief that no one was injured, or worse. We are deeply grateful for the quick actions of our staff, the Fire Service and Gardai for ensuring a speedy and safe evacuation of all involved,” Mr Williams added.
New Lidl store for Drumcondra LIDL is set to open its first store of the decade next Thursday (February 13) in Drumcondra, nestled between the St. Patrick’s College campus and the Skylon Hotel, with All Ireland winner and All Star nominee, Éabha Ruthledge of the Dublin ladies football squad set to cut the ribbon. The state-of-the-art store promises an enhanced customer experience with 34 convenient car park spaces on site, a Lidl to Go coffee machine and a larger bakery area offering customers a larger range of freshly baked goods. The modern architectural design delivers a spacious interior layout with higher ceilings and wider aisles creating a more comfortable shopping journey for customers. The new store will have a full-time staff of 24 and is fully equipped with a large canteen and welfare area as well as shower facilities providing staff with all they need for a pleasant work environment. A model of sustainability, the Drum-
condra store incorporates a range of strategies to reduce environmental impact including an ISO 50001 certified Energy Management System, a solar photovoltaic system and 2 electric vehicle charger spaces. Max Nozhenko, Drumcondra Store Manager said; “We are delighted to open our new and elaborate store in such a warm and welcoming community. We, as a team here in Lidl Drumcondra, are beyond excited to be able to serve the local Drumcondra community, offering a top-notch range of high quality products at astounding prices.” To celebrate the opening, Lidl Drumcondra will welcome representatives from the Cari Foundation to accept a donation of €1,000 to support the ongoing work they do with children in the Drumcondra area and beyond. The store will be open from 8am to 10pm Monday to Saturday and 9am to 9pm on Sundays.
6 February 2020 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 3
FASTNews
RECORD: AMBULANCE CREW HOPE TO TIE 400 SLINGS IN AN HOUR
Youth hits woman with scrambler A woman in Drimnagh was left in a serious condition, after being injured in a hit and run incident involving a scrambler at a Luas stop last Thursday. Gardai and emergency services were called to the Drimnagh Luas Stop on Davitt Road at approximately 1:45pm on January 30, when the woman, who is in her late 20s, was struck by a scrambler being driven by a youth. The impact saw the youth and the scrambler being thrown into the nearby canal. The youth then managed to swim to the side of the canal, and fled the scene on another motorbike. The woman was taken to St James’s Hospital, where her injuries have been described as serious. A garda spokeswoman said: “Gardaí are appealing for any witnesses to the collision to contact them or any road users who were in the area and may have dash cam footage of the incident or at the time of the incident, to contact them at Sundrive Road Garda Station on 01 - 6666600, the Garda Confidential Telephone Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.”
Warning over threat to family resource centres’ operations FAMILY resource centres in areas of Dublin affected by poverty and disadvantage have warned that their future is under threat. The Family Resource Centre National Forum (FRCNF) says dozens of community-based schemes may have to close their doors unless the State steps in. FRCNF has called for additional funding and a dedicated government unit to administer its programme and is urging election candidates to pledge their support. The early intervention programme is the largest communitybased initiative of its type in the country, offering a range of activities from afterschool clubs to baby massage, adult counselling, play therapy, mindfulness and family fun days. There are more than 20 centres in Dublin, including in Dundrum and Balally. FRCNF is highlighting the shortfall in core funding for and the “dilution and dismantling” of their unique community development model of family support. Chairperson Clare Cashman said the campaign’s ask was for candidates to commit to establishing a unit within a government department to administer the programme. She added that the autonomy of FRCs must be preserved, and core funding of €160,000 per FRC per year was needed to operate schemes effectively. The FRC programme has been in operation for over 25 years, and is currently housed within Tusla, the Child and Family Agency. For more, see www.familyresource.ie.
Raheny cadet division carry out practise for the big upcoming event
World record attempt for St John’s Ambulance RACHEL D’ARCY rdarcy@dublingazette.com
HUNDREDS of volunteer members of the St John’s Ambulance service will gather in Croke Park on February 16, as part of a Guinness World Record attempt. Cadets - those aged 11 to 17 and youth leaders alike will all take part in an attempt to tie over 400 arm slings in an hour. They will gather in Croke Park for the world record attempt, where they will aim to beat the existing record of 216 completed arm slings in 60 minutes. The current record was set in 2006, by St John’s Ambulance Wales. Local groups from across Ireland and Dublin will partake
in the event, which will see cadets tying slings on the arms of ‘patients’, with hours of practice already invested in the event. Speaking to Dublin Gazette, youth leader at St John’s Ambulance City of Dublin, Aoife Howard, said that it’s going to be hard work, but that all involved are up for the challenge. “Myself and three other youth leaders are part of the team, as well as 14 cadets from different divisions helping to organise the event. The other three leaders involved are Dan Byrne(Raheny), Karen Egan(Foxrock), Ashling Doyle(Glanmire, Cork). “One of the lads came up with the idea and got us involved. The
main aim of the event was to promote and empower the cadets because they are going to be the future of the organisation, so in fairness to Dan, he thought of the idea and got us all involved! We then got the cadets involved in the management team, they’ve done a lot of work in organising the event and the adults have mainly been there for supervision or the things the kids can’t deal with! “We’re going to try and beat the record for most amount of arm slings applied in one hour, with the current record set by an ambulance in Wales. It’s a hard challenge to beat but I think our cadets are well up for it, so that’s what we’re going to try and do! “It’s going to be done in a relay
style, so there’ll be one ‘patient’ and then one person, or treater, applying the sling. It’s going to be done in pairs so there’ll be over 430 people in total making up the numbers, so we have enough patients and people to apply the slings. “Our divisions are based in and around Dublin, but we also have branches in Drogheda and Limerick and Cork. We’ve sent out training videos to everyone, so all the different divisions have been hard at work training for the world record attempt!” Keep up to date with all those taking part in the event and the City of Dublin division on social media, including their Instagram page at @cityofdublinstjohnambulance.
4 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 6 February 2020
WORLD WIDE WEB: ANOTHER RISE IN NEW .IE SITES SHOW NO SLOW DOWN IN ONLINE ACTIVITY
Almost 19,000 new .ie registrations in Dublin last year CÓILÍN DUFFY
THERE were 18,966 new .ie domain registrations in Dublin in 2019, according to the latest edition of the .ie Domain Profile Report published by IE Domain Registry. The .ie Domain Profile Report examines the makeup of the .ie database, including the counties and countries where .ie domains are registered and additional information about the wider .ie ecosystem. Leinster registered 30,975 new .ie domains in 2019, which brings the total number of .ie domains in the province to 174,164, up 6.78% YoY.
The report also showed that over the course of the last decade, .ie enjoyed a 10 percent swing in market share of Ireland’s hosted domains from .com. In 2010, .com comprised 43% of all Irish hosted domains, versus 40% for .ie. In 2019, .ie comprised 50% of hosted domains, whereas .com’s share shrank to 33%. 50,167 new .ie domains were registered in 2019. This was down slightly on 2018 (51,040, -1.7%), when IE Domain Registry first implemented a rule change governing .ie domain registrations. The change, called ‘liberalisation’, allows anyone to register a .ie domain provided they can
prove a legitimate connection to the island of Ireland. Previously, .ie domain applicants were required to also prove their claim to a particular .ie domain, which was often difficult for new start-up businesses and other informal associations without official documentation. Speaking about the report, David Curtin, Chief Executive of IE Domain Registry, said: “The 2010s were a period of monumental growth for the .ie domain, powered by a combination of rapid technological and social change through the explosion of digital media and e-commerce and the proliferation of internet-enabled devices, and because of key strategic decisions
FASTNews
Girl Power leads teens to STEM exhibitions
Dublin win in Prize Bonds A DUBLINER has struck lucky, after winning the Star Prize of €50,000 in last weeks Prize Bonds draw. The holder of Prize Bond AFJ 957416, which was purchased in 2016 scooped the impressive sum, and was one of 5,000 winners in the draw, which claimed winnings of over €314,000.
AMY DARKWAH 5th yr Ardgillan Community College; Ella beach 4th yr Loreto Abbey Dalkey; Temi Alabi 5th yr, Ardgillan Community College and Poppy Cotter, 4th yr Loreto Abbey Dalkey at I WISH 2020 in the RDS on Monday. The event comprised of insightful talks and keynote speeches delivered by a host of inspiring speakers thriving in STEM careers as well as interactive exhibitions and engaging workshops designed to raise awareness of the myriad of opportunities that a STEM career can offer young women.
Rape Crisis Centre seek volunteers THE DUBLIN Rape Crisis Centre is seeking male and female volunteers to train as telephone counsellors on the 24-hour national freephone helpline outside office hours. DRCC volunteers also support those attending the Sexual Assault Treatment Unit at the Rotunda Hospital in Dublin 1. For over 40 years, the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre has worked to prevent the harm and heal the trauma of sexual violence. DRCC volunteers provide vital support and information to survivors of sexual violence and to those who support them. Volunteers come from every walk of life – no previous experience or training in this field is required, as full training and ongoing mentoring is provided. Applicants must be a minimum of 25 years old and reside in the Dublin area. For further information, please ring 01-6614911 or email volunteerservices@rcc. ie. Closing date for applications is Friday 14 February. More information and application forms are at bit. ly/drccvol
taken by IE Domain Registry’s Policy Advisory Committee. “The most fundamental of these was ‘liberalisation’, a rule change implemented in 2018 that dropped the requirement for applicants to prove their claim to a particular .ie domain name.” Meanwhile, latest statistics show that 90 per cent of Irish adults now use the internet -one of the highest levels of usage in the EU. Irish usage has risen from 58 per cent in 2007, to 80 per cent in 2015, and is now slightly ahead of the EU average of 87 per cent. Sweden, at 98 per cent, tops the EU internet usage chart.
Picture: JULIEN BEHAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Irish economy strong despite Brexit uncertainty CÓILÍN DUFFY
cduffy@dublingazette.com IRELAND’s economy remains strong despite Brexit uncertainty, according to independent business intelligence and risk agency CRIF Vision-net. Almost 23,000 new companies were formed in Ireland in 2019, an increase of 1.2 percent on the previous year, with Dublin, Cork and Galway the most popular counties for company start-ups. New figures from the CRIF Vision-net 2020 Annual Review show that new company start-ups in Ireland reached a high of 22,774 in 2019, the highest number in CRIF Vision-net’s 29-year history. The increase in start-ups for 2019 rose by 1.2% compared to 2018 (22,774 vs 22,493) with professional services accounting for the majority (4,741 up 3.6%) of all startups in 2019. In terms of locations, Dublin remains
one of the most attractive spots for business start-ups, with almost half (47%) of all new start-ups located within the capital in 2019. Cork (10%), Galway (3.9%), Limerick (3.2%) and Kildare (3.1%) make up the remainder of the top five, accounting for a combined total of 2,379 start-ups. Commenting on the 2019 figures, Christine Cullen, Managing Director of CRIF Vision-net, said: “As we look to 2020, the UK’s final legal withdrawal from the EU, coupled with the fact that Ireland is now in a mature stage of growth, presents undeniable challenges for businesses. “However, our latest CRIF Vision-Net annual figures show that the Irish economy is continuing to grow despite them. “According to the findings, 2019 was a record-breaking year for new company registrations for the third year in a row. While this trend of steady year-on-year growth is good news, it is also worth not-
ing that company start-ups in Ireland have outnumbered company closures every year over the past ten years. “There is a certain degree of comfort that can be drawn from these figures, as they help to display the robustness of the Irish economy during a period of great uncertainty. “However, we cannot become complacent. In light of recent Brexit developments, it is crucial that businesses remain observant and adaptable. It is both the responsibility of Irish companies and the Irish Government to work in tandem to ensure that there are measures in place to safeguard the future of the economy.
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“Although there is no comprehensive answer as to what Brexit means for the Irish economy, we must prepare for disruption in order to best position ourselves.” Adding to this, Sara Costantini, UK and Ireland Regional Director of CRIF said: “CRIF adopts an innovative operating model that recognises the importance of how successful and future ready players should operate. “Looking towards 2020, a number of business enablers are emerging, offering businesses and end-users new opportunities to succeed in the digital area while satisfying their customer’s needs. “More and more, data will play a strategic role for the economy, and the ability to interpret the real meaning and value of information is key going forward.”
2019 was a record-breaking year for new company registrations for the third year in a row
6 February 2020 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 5
6 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 6 February 2020
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6 February 2020 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 7
GALLERIES OF THE WEEK
Bill Hughes and John Lynch
Sorcha Charles and Clare Craig
Brian Ormond and his grandmother Josie
Declan McFadden and Dave Casey
Claire Hyland and Roisin Coulter. Pictures: Brian McEvoy
Dublin comes alive with The Sound of Music
W
Mikaela O’Neill and Ryan Andrews
Brendan O’Loughlin and Ann Cahill
ell known faces from the entertainment world took to the red carpet at the Bord Gais Energy Theatre for the opening night of The Sound of Music. Spotted on the red carpet were Maia Dunphy and Michelle McGrath, while Mary Kennedy, Ryan Andrews and Michael Carruth took a break from Dancing With the Stars rehearsals along pro dancers Stephen and Kylee Vincent to check out the opening which stars Clelia Murphy as Baroness Elsa alongside Former Coronation Street bad boy Andrew Lancel who plays Captain Von Trapp.
Andrea Smith and Eileen Smith
Liam Coburn and Abigail Coburn
Niamh Shields and Ciara Byrne. Pictures Brian McEvoy
8 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 6 February 2020
ISSUE: NTA CANNOT ‘LAWFULLY ISSUE’ LICENCES TO DRIVERS WITHOUT NCT
FASTNews DCU gets in a ‘JAM’ DCU HAS become the first University in Ireland to introduce the ‘JAM’ Card The North Dublin University began the scheme on Tuesday last, which has been developed by the Now Charity and allows a person to show a card which indicates that they have a disability or learning difficulty and may need ‘Just a Minute’. More information on www.jamcard.org
Charity Cycle from Cardiff to Dublin A BUNCH of 40 cyclists are already on their way from Cardiff to Dublin in time for the Six Nations game between Ireland and Wales at the Aviva Stadium on Saturday, as part of a charity fundraiser to support TY Hafan, a children’s hospice in South Wales. Many of those cycling were keen to get involved, after one of the fathers on the ride received support from Ty Hafan when his son Thomas was terminally ill. His Dad James is taking part in this ride to continue his support for Ty Hafan so that other families can receive similar support for their life limited children.
Radiothon for Homelessness RADIO Nova is set to help raise funds once again to help fight homelessness in Dublin, by linking up with Charity Partner Focus Ireland, for their annual Radiothon on Friday 28 and Saturday 29 February next. Focus Ireland volunteers will be on hand to take donations over the phone at Radio Nova’s Dublin City Centre studios. Following a two-day appeal, the Radio Nova 2019 Help our Homeless Radiothon raised €71,188. As part of last year’s appeal, Radio Nova broadcast live from 37 Dawson Street with a host of celebrities dropping by including Jason Byrne, Bressie, Dermott Bannon and a live on the street performance from Aslan.
Taxi drivers fears over NCT centres mishap The use of scissor lifts at NCT centres across the country has been temporarily suspended ‘until a full condition survey of all lifts is completed’
RACHEL D’ARCY rdarcy@dublingazette.com
SOME TAXI drivers are set to be impacted by current lift issues at NCT centres, as the National Transport Authority have said they cannot ‘lawfully issue’ licences to drivers without an NCT. Taxi drivers seeking to renew their licences need to have their car tested as part of the process. However, the use of scissor lifts at NCT centres across the country has been temporarily suspended ‘until a full condition survey of all lifts is completed’,
meaning some aspects of NCT testing cannot be completed. Approximately 100 vehicles across the country may be impacted by the issues over the next fortnight. The NTA have said that, lawfully, they will not be able to issue new taxi licences to drivers who do not have a valid NCT. In a statement to RTE, a spokesperson for the NTA said: “NTA is not lawfully in a position to grant a vehicle licence without proof of a valid NCT Certificate dated within 90 days of inspection. “RSA and National Car Test-
ing Service have advised NTA that all vehicle owners should continue to book and attend at their NCT as normal. The test will be completed with the temporary omission of the underbody inspection, which will be conducted at a later time when the lifts are returned to use.” In a statement issued by the NCTS last Friday, they said that they are urging customers to continue to turn up for their NCT, and to book as normal. “The test will be completed with the omission of the underbody inspection, which will be conducted at a later date when
the lifts are returned fully to use,” a spokesperson said. “NCTS can confirm that a small number of lift inspections have recommenced on a restricted basis. Customers should note if a vehicle passes on lights, emissions, upper body exterior, vehicle interior, brakes, suspension and wheel alignment they will receive a vehicle inspection report stating “No Lift Inspection Done” resulting in a fail result. “This no way implies the vehicle has failed on the items tested it just addresses the fact that no lift inspection was car-
ried out. A certificate will be issued when all testable items have been successfully completed. We are advised that the insurance industry will take a pragmatic view for policyholders and not penalise them for not having a valid NCT. All vehicle owners are reminded that the roadworthiness of their vehicle is their responsibility at all times. In addition, motorists are being advised to keep a copy of their Vehicle Inspection Report with them in order to present it to a member of An Garda Síochána if required.”
Dublin housing market looks set to stabilise CÓILÍN DUFFY
cduffy@dublingazette.com A PERIOD of high price inflation appears to be drawing to a close and the property market looks set for a period of price stabilisation as we head into a new decade according to the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI). SCSI members believe Dublin property prices are set to remain static in 2020 while rents are expected to rise by 4%. Chartered agents and auctioneers in the city say the price stabilisation is being driven by
more realistic price expectations, affordability constraints and increased supply in the commuter belt. According to the SCSI’s annual Residential and Outlook report, which has been running since 1983, the number of chartered agents who said sellers’ price expectations have increased, halved from 80% to 40%. Agents described the Dublin residential property market as the most suppressed of all the regional markets examined in this report; both the volume of enquiries and transactions remained very low, especially
amongst those wishing to trade up. They said there was a limited supply of new housing coming onto the market which impeded transactional activity. While future trends for new supply of apartments in the city are positive, there remains a dearth of new houses for those who wish to move into larger houses from apartments. “The double-digit price inflation we saw in recent years was not sustainable and a return to a more stable market with modest price increases will enable buyers and sellers to plan for the future
SCSI President Johanna Gill
with more certainty,” SCSI President Johanna Gill said. “While we knew ‘Brexit’ had an effect on the market, the extent to which it undermined consumer confidence around the country did come as something of a surprise. From Donegal to Cork and from Dublin to Galway our members said Brexit and the uncertainty it caused played a greater role than any other issue in shaping the residential property market in 2019.” The SCSI’s Annual Residential Property Review and Outlook Report 2020 is available at www. scsi.ie
6 February 2020 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 9
COURTS: ELDERLY VICTIM WAS ‘AFFECTED BADLY’
FASTNews
Winner named for new library card’s design
A whole Lotto luck for three Dublin players THE National Lottery has revealed that last week’s €7,773,998 jackpot was won by two Dublin players. Each player will receive €3,886,999, with the winning Lotto numbers being 01, 03, 20, 22, 39, 44, and the bonus number was 16. The two winning tickets were sold at the Circle K Service Station in Kilmainham, Dublin 8 and Dunnes Stores in the Donaghmede Shopping Centre, Donaghmede, Dublin 13. The jackpot was close to being shared three ways as another Lotto player matched five numbers and the bonus ball – one number short of splitting the jackpot. This ticket, worth €46,714, was sold online.
Excellence awards for Dublin firms HOTEL and visitor destinations in the capital were celebrating after 20 Awards of Excellence, including a prestigious Gold Award were presented to hotel and tourism operators in the county by CIE Tours International. The CIE Tours International Annual Awards for Excellence recognise the best hotels and tourist attractions across Ireland based on feedback from customers. Each winner achieved a customer satisfaction rating of more than 92% from CIE Tours International visitors. Teeling Whiskey Distillery won a Gold award in the Best Visit Category, with other visitor attractions winning Merit Awards including Dalkey Castle Heritage Centre, Cooks Academy, Malahide Castle, St Patrick’s Cathedral, Kilmainham Gaol, EPIC the Irish Emigration Museum and Glasnevin Museum Dublin hotels to win Merit awards were The Shelbourne Hotel, Ashling Hotel, Herbert Park Hotel, Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Radisson Blu St Helen’s, Maldron Hotel Pearse Street, Clontarf Castle Hotel, Croke Park Hotel, Academy Plaza Hotel, The Gibson Hotel, Fitzpatrick Castle Hotel and Clayton Hotel Burlington Road.
CULTURE ASDFDFD
Woman knocked down by car thief A CAR thief who struck an elderly woman with a stolen car while she was confronting him has been jailed for three years. Liam Sheridan (40), with an address at Rory O’Connor House, Dublin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to e n d a n ge r m e n t a t Mountjoy Street, Dublin city centre on August 31, 2016. Garda Ciara Martin told the court that the victim and her male friend, who are both in their 70s, were on Mountjoy Street when the man realised he had lost his car key. Four young men had found the key earlier and had approached Sheridan to ask him to steal the car. The elderly woman and the man were walking up and down the road searching for the key when she realised that the men had gotten into the car. She went back to the car to confront them and leaned in through the front passenger door. She told the people to
get out. The four youths left, but Sheridan started the engine and reversed the car. The woman was knocked to the ground and Sheridan drove off. The woman suffered two fractures to her leg and was hospitalised. She has had to receive continued hospital care for her injuries. The court heard the injury has “mentally
Marc Thompson BL, defending, said Sheridan was in “the throes of drug addiction” at the time. He said his client had taken drink and drugs at the time and wasn’t thinking straight. He said that the father-ofone is dealing with his addiction now. Judge Sheahan suspended the final nine months of a prison term
and physically affected her badly”. Sheridan told the court he was very sorry and said he did not intend for anyone to be injured. “I’m very sorry; I know how she suffered, I can’t make it right,” he told Judge Elma Sheahan.
of three years and nine months on condition that he keep the peace and engage with the Probation Service after his release. Sheridan’s previous c o nv i c t i o n s i n c l u d e theft and drug dealing offences.
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The woman was knocked to the ground and Sheridan drove off. The woman suffered two fractures to her leg and was hospitalised. She has had to receive continued hospital care for her injuries.
THE Lord Mayor of Dublin, Paul McAuliffe, and city librarian Mairead Owens have announced the winner of the competition to design a new library card for Dublin City Libraries. The competition was organised as part of the Lord Mayor’s initiative to encourage fourth class pupils to join their local library. The winning entry was designed by Aleksandra Czyz, who attends the nearby Mary Help of Christian GNS in Cabra. Aleksandra will receive a prize of a Kindle Fire tablet and her newlydesigned card will be included in a welcome pack to be delivered to all schools across the city. Cllr McAuliffe said:
“Aleksandra’s card will be used by children across the city for many years to come, and will be available in libraries from March. “It is part of my initiative with Dublin City Libraries to invite all fourth class children to join their local library. “I hope fourth class, from Mary Help of Christian’s GNS, will lead the way.” Cllr McAuliffe said: “Aleksandra’s card will be used by children across the city for many years to come, and will be available in libraries from March. “It is part of my initiative with Dublin City Libraries to invite all fourth class children to join their local library.”
10 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 6 February 2020
GALLERIES OF THE WEEK
Clara Kraus and Anna Krpta
A very sparkly Ruby and Alice Eastwood. Pictures: Andres Poveda
Emily, Ben and James Baaij
Things get a little fuzzy at the Universal Pictures special preview screening of Dolittle at Odeon Point Square, Dublin
Special screening turns into a zoo!
U
NIVERSAL PICTURES held a special preview screening of Dolittle at the Odeon Point Square in Dublin. Guests (and animals) in attendance were the first in Ireland to see Dolittle before it hits cinemas nationwide on February 7. Robert Downey Jr. electrifies one of literature’s most enduring characters in a vivid reimagining of the classic tale of the man who could talk to animals.
Kelly Kearney with family, Frankie, Kady, Kenzie, and Kadie
Dominic Holmes, Matilda and Michelle Davis
Dave McAsey with Anthony, Cillian and Saoirse
Dave Moore with family, Anna and Nina and Andrew
6 February 2020 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 11
GENERAL ELECTION 2020
SOME OF THE MAIN TALKING POINTS
Candidates on the big topics CONTINUING on from our focus over the past fortnight, DUBLIN GAZETTE reached out to the confirmed candidates in General Election 2020. We asked them all the same set of questions, to help inform you about where they stand on just some of the main issues of the day. Here is what the general election candidates had to say* – the following answers were from those who had responded by our print deadline this week. QUESTION 4: ENVIRONMENT QUESTION 1: HEALTH How would you address the chronic What is your stance on Climate problems that are prevalent in the Change? How green/accessible is your campaign? Health Service? QUESTION 2: HOUSING How would you address the chronic problems in the housing sector? QUESTION 3: EDUCATION What ways would you address education issues in your area at a Government level?
QUESTION 5: TRANSPORT Do you think Public Transport in your area is sufficient? What changes might you make? QUESTION 6: YOUR MESSAGE Why do you think people should vote for you?
(*Some answers may have been edited to account for space, as necessary.)
DUBLIN BAY SOUTH EAMON RYAN, GREEN PARTY
Q 1 THE Sláintecare Report provides a vision of what we need in our health system. A single-tier system based on need should be our aim. Substantial reform that considers the mediumand long-term direction is essential in moving forward. Q2 Building housing on public land requires substantial investment to tackle the housing and
homelessness crisis. This has to be State-led, through a programme of public cost-rental developments. Strengthening rights for tenants would also help stem the tide of people being made homeless. Q3 I would work to ensure excellence in edu-
cation, supporting teachers and improving access to local schools. There are challenges in third-level funding and there are inequalities of access and support at primary and secondary level. Ensuring all children can readily access education is my priority. Q4 Climate change is the single biggest challenge facing humanity today. Without significant change we are facing catastrophic and irreversible damage to our world and our communities. Moving to a greener
society and economy will not just safeguard our planet, it will present opportunities to build a fairer, more just society that caring work and moves us towards equality and inclusion. Q5 Walking, cycling and a public transport system that is affordable and reliable is the direction I want to see us go. I would reverse the transport budget from its focus on roads so that we prioritise building what we need. People are spending longer in their cars as commuting times increase. Alternative options are better for reducing our emissions, and for quality of life, health and society. Q6 If you want action on climate, investment in public services and a strong socially progressive voice in the Dáíl then I ask you to consider giving me your number one vote.
DUBLIN NORTH WEST
RÓISÍN SHORTALL, SOCIAL DEMOCRATS
Q1 If we have a right to anything in this country, then the right to health
must be at the top of that list. I chaired the group of TDs that agreed the Sláintecare reforms. The implementation of Sláintecare will be a key demand for the Social Democrats in any formation of Government. Q2 Housing is the greatest challenge this country faces, and the last decade saw poor decisions being made right across the board in housing and local planning. We want to change the housing system so that
the aim is to deliver housing at the lowest cost to purchasers and renters. We need to use public land-banks for housing, and pass legislation to prevent land hoarding. In the rental sector, we need to introduce a rent freeze and rent caps that match inflation as well as increasing minimum
notice periods and more transparency to rent prices. My local priority is to reverse bad planning laws to make sure that new developments fit into our local communities without worsening traffic congestion. Q3 In schools, we want to eliminate costs by funding books, transport, and resources. Public resources should be targeted to the greatest need, meaning more resources in DEIS schools. We need to invest in Special Needs Assistants also. We need to phase out the Student Contribution Charge, increase funding to the SUSI grant scheme by 7%, and invest in access programmes. Q4 It is essential that we deliver the necessary environmental reform in a way that doesn’t impoverish ordinary people. We would introduce a ‘save as you pay’ home insulation grant scheme w h i c h wo u l d a l l o w householders to make the necessary adaptations to make their home energy effic ient and repay the costs as they make savings in their energy bills.
Q5 It is essential that we deliver the necessary environmental reform in a way that doesn’t impoverish ordinary people. We would introduce a ‘save as you pay’ home insulation grant scheme w h i c h wo u l d a l l ow householders to make the necessary adaptations to make their home energy efficient and repay the costs as they make savings in their energy bills. We also need investment in public transport and safe cycling infrastructure to help reduce car use. We need to increase the provision of public transport to ease congestion. I have engaged with local residents during the BusConnects consultation and want to ensure that any changes improve the service. Q6 I have a proven track record that shows I am committed to reducing the cost of living for people in Dublin North West by improving public services like community health and affordable housing, supporting families and children by making laws that give them a better work/life balance, and always being honest in politics.
12 DUBLIN GAZETTE 6 February 2020
POLITICS: GATHERING OF DISPARATE GROUPS AND INDIVIDUALS SHARED A COMMON FOCUS
Bringing genuine thoughts and solutions to the fore as The Real Debate examined Ireland, 2020 PADRAIG CONLON
WHILE the RTE Leaders Debate was being broadcast live on Tuesday night, an alternative debate was taking place online. The Real Debate – a podcast/streaming event – was offering the electorate several different opinions and views from across the political spectrum. With contributions from members of both the judiciary and the legislature, as well as from policy makers, campaigners and commentators, The Real Debate discussed topics such as housing, health, banking, vulture funds, radical political change, public accountability, collective solutions and many others. The idea for this streaming event emerged from the growing frustration of large sections of the Irish electorate following RTE’s decision to initially only invite leaders of the two main parties, Fine Gael and Fianna Fail, who between them represent less than 50% of the electorate. Even though RTE decided on Monday to invite Mary Lou McDonald, for Sinn Fein, to take part in the Leaders Debate, the organisers of The Real Debate decided to go ahead with their event and subsequently release it to the public following RTE’s offering on Tuesday night. Set up as a collaboration between several organisations, including Right2Homes, HomeOptions, and ourselves, Dublin Gazette, as a media partner, The Real Debate set out to offer the other 52% of voters a debate. One of the moderators on Tuesday, Donagh
Contributors on the night hold aloft The Affordable Housing and Fair Mortgage Bill 2018 – a bill to support homeowners, rather than vulture funds, that was just one of the topics discussed on the night, which also saw a wide range of issues highlighted and discussed
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In this election, there’s a strong wave for social change; true reengagement with the disenfranchised. There’s a strong move of support away from the Centrist parties.
McKeown, told Dublin Gazette why he was so keen to be involved. He said: “Whether you take the word of the numerous surveys and polls by ‘official’ groups, or take your own straw poll with folks on the street, you’ll soon see that both will lead with deep concerns, firstly about health, and the health service in Ireland. “More than 50% [of people] in collective polling say that’s their number-
one concern, with housing coming second, and in that mix comes the plight of the homeless. “Calls for increased affordable housing are being heard at every doorstep, from the inner cities to our most rural areas. “Deep in the Irish psyche, there’s the desire to own one’s own home. “Many people are also deeply concerned for the growing numbers of homeless people who now roam our streets.
“Once again, perhaps subconsciously, there’s a collective memory of famine and eviction that’s within, and the frustration of a lack of meaningful reform or action from politicians to change the system is rising. “Combine this with the continuously circling wake of vulture funds preying on the threatened homeowners,” he said. Donagh added: “There’s a growing belief in the electorate that they have
the power in this and future elections to bring about change. “In this election, there’s a strong wave for social change; true re-engagement with the disenfranchised. “There’s a strong move of support away from the Centrist parties, with an almost tsunami level of support moving to more socially democratic-leaning parties, with Sinn Fein rising, in polls at least, leading that movement for change.” Another contributor on the night was property developer Paddy Kelly who shared his ideas on how to stimulate house building nationwide. He said: “We need a better awareness of the cycli-
cal nature of the building and development industry. “Annual housing completions went from an annual high of 94,000 to a low of 5,000 in the decade ending in 2008. “In the decade ending in 2018, there was an average of 10,000 homes completed annually – with a low of 5,000 in some years – and the industry almost closed down. “Uncertainty and delay needs to be taken out of the planning process. Zoned Land needs to be provided. “We need a policy for dealing with third-party objections – it’s estimated that approximately 40% of the cost of a new home is government tax.
“There should be policy change whereby the VAT at 13.5% is passed back by the government to firsttime buyers. “In the UK, there are a number of support systems for first-time buyers which we should look at adopting. “Create building capacity by advancing professional training for the various groups involved and advance knowledge in regard to building methods and materials,” he said. You can find The Real D e b a te o n Yo u Tu b e (search using #therealdebate, with the video posted under user Sean O Cearrullain), as well as on Facebook or Twitter pages (using #RealDebateIreland).
6 February 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13
STYLE: FRESH NEW LOOKS
SPRING for some fresh fashions as colour and flowery fabrics flow back into wardrobes. With the grand stretch in the evenings giving more time to show off your new outfits, embrace this season’s new trends and help celebrate these fresh new styles!
MAGAZINE
DUBLIN
MUSIC P16
VALENTINE TRAVEL P24
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LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS TAKE YOU ON A TOUR OF THE NEWS AND EVENTS ACROSS THE CITY AND COUNTY
Filming her new show isn’t a tall order for Andrea
P R E SE N T E R A n d re a Hayes (above, right) met a lanky new friend as she filmed her new series, Fota: Into the Wild. The new four-part show, airing on Virgin Media One, follows life in the iconic
Cork wildlife park, with Andrea meeting many of the park’s animals and the people who care for them. With the first episode airing last Sunday, February 2, Dubs have already seen a little of how our
country cousins are helping to care for some of the world’s most vulnerable animals, with Andrea promising that there’s much more still to come. Animal lovers and Dubs alike will relish the chance
to learn more about the animals and the park, with Andrea’s tall pal here just one of the many highlights of the show. See the next episode of Fota: Into the Wild this Sunday at 9pm on VM One.
14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 6 February 2020
DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS I N F O R M AT I O N
SOME OF THE RANDOM AND QUIRKY THINGS
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FINGLAS girl Matilda Byrne was delighted to help The Oesophageal Cancer Fund launch the upcoming Lollipop Day. Taking place across the country on February 26 and 27, the fundraising and awareness campaign aims to increase public awareness of the symptoms of oesophageal cancer and to highlight how the cancer can be prevented or diagnosed early to improve cure rates. Picture: Jason Clarke
Dope with dope lands Islands disappear off in even bigger trouble South Sumatra coast A TENNESSEE courtroom lit up with laughter earlier this month after a defendant tried to smoke a marijuana cigarette – while he was being charged with marijuana possession. Spencer Boston (20) was appearing in court in the town of Lebanon before Judge Haywood Barry for a simple possession charge – but now could be prosecuted further for his behaviour. Seemingly engaged and coor-
dinating with the judge, the scene quickly changed when Boston removed a rolled cigarette from his pocket and began smoking it. Security personnel quickly realised what was happening and apprehended Boston while he waved the joint around. He was arrested immediately after the incident, and is currently serving 10 days in jail for contempt of court.
TWO islands in South Sumatra have vanished while four more are already on the brink of disappearing as a result of rising sea levels, according to the Indonesian Forum for the Environment. Betet Island and Gundul Island have submerged and are currently sitting one metre and three metres below sea level, respectively. “These islands were uninhabited. One of the islands, Betet, is a part of Berbak-Sembilang National Park,” said Hairul Sobri, executive director. “Should there be no significant efforts to address the ever-rising oceans, four other islands in the area with elevations of less than four metres above sea level could follow suit and disappear sooner or later”, Sobri said, referring to specific islands at threat off the eastern coast of South Sumatra’s Banyuasin regency.
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 Callie, a beautiful two-year-old female Labrador cross that has bundles of energy and is full of fun. She loves going out for walks, playing with her toys and will do anything for a tasty treat. Callie can be a little conflicted with people, sometimes seeking cuddles and interaction, but at other times preferring space to do her own thing. She is looking for patient and gentle adopters who are willing to get to know
her over a couple of meets and allow her to build trust at her own pace. She is a very sweet and lively girl, and will make a lovely addition to the right family. If you have room in your heart and home for Callie 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.)
callie
6 February 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15
DUBLIN BITS & BOBS Kids take on locust swarm
THAT CAUGHT OUR EYE THIS WEEK... TOP TWEETS
Finally an emoji for chastising my business associates when they come to me for favours on this, the day of my daughter’s wedding. @finryan87 In the pub.... Drunk Fella: Can I get you a drink? Me: No thank you. Drunk Fella: You’re lovely. Me: I’m far too old for you. Drunk Fella: No ... you’re not old. Me: I was at your Christening and I’m friends with your Mam. Drunk Fella: Fair enough. @RealFionaO They call it Dublin because the rent always is. @bigmonsterlove Unpopular opinion - Mrs Brown’s Boys isn’t funny. Don’t @ me. @ManjitThandi78 Catherine Noone called in to my mam about two weeks ago. In the middle of the conversation she apparently slipped in that Varadkar was autistic. No one believed my mam when she told them, and this morning she has a face on like Mrs Doyle correctly guessing Todd Unctious’ name. @rohal_ As an Irish person, my only thought in Brexit is that I wish the Brits had discovered this zeal for getting out of places 800 years ago. @daithihartery
BILLIONS of locusts have swept through East Africa and are now invading Kenya in what is the worst locust infestation the country has seen in 70 years. According to Al Jazeera, the swarm has migrated from Ethiopia and Somalia, and is now making its way through Kenya, since first beginning in December. The UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimated one swarm
Horse call lands man in court A MAN riding a horse in Australia was brought before court, because he didn’t have a hands-free mobile device fitted to his trusty steed. The man was caught using his phone on a rural road in New South Wales, while riding the horse at around 10kmph, when the police stopped him. In New South Wales, a ‘vehicle’ includes an animal-drawn vehicle, and an animal that is being ridden under NSW legislation, Road Rules 2014, Road Users and Vehicles. The man pleaded guilty at Mudgee Local Court to using his mobile phone while in use of a vehicle, as he conceded the horse was in motion as he was making a phone call.
Bug-ly idea for Feb 14 TEXANS will have the chance for revenge on their exes this Valentine’s Day, thanks to a local zoo. The El Paso Zoo have launched their ‘Quit Bugging Me’ campaign, where locals can name a cockroach after their ex and have it fed to one of the animals at the zoo. This will be the second year of the scheme, with the zoo saying they had a “tremendous response” last year on their Facebook page. Madagascar hissing cockroaches are frozen and a normal part of some animals’ diets.
alone in Kenya covered 930 square miles – almost the size of Moscow. Based on that estimate, there could be up to 200 billion locusts invading the country’s skies and farmlands. While these plucky kids (right) were doing their best to beat back the blighters in their area, authorities are warning that if the locust population is not contained, it could grow into a ‘plague’ and spread even wider throughout the African continent.
16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 6 February 2020
DUBLIN ENTERTAINMENT
WELL WORTH A LISTEN
We’re in the midst of a spiritual crisis, warn London band HMLTD HMLTD’S early career has been a dramatic one. A London act that sit somewhere between a boisterous protest and a broad, flamboyant cultural experiment, they’re difficult to pin down on anything from genre to outlook, exhibiting a kind of Glam-Punk, style-borrowing ethos. Once, they were a major label investment project, making and then dumping an expensive album along the way, as NME hyped them as the next big thing. With a new version of that debut album, entitled West of Eden, finally on the market, their experimental approach
JAMES HENDICOTT
has brought them to a scatty but enthralling release, and a more natural (to them) anti-Capitalist stance. Fro n t m a n He n r y Chisholm is a politically poignant figure, and he’s not in the least bit shy about the journey the band have been on so far, or how he views modern-day society. It’s not a pretty angle. “People are isolated,” he explains. “We’re in the midst of a spiritual crisis, and I think things like
Brexit, Trump – these things are just responses to a larger crisis. “At the start of the 20th Century, religion s t a r te d to c o l l a p s e, which is a good thing in some ways, but I don’t think it was fully replaced. “Collective views have disappeared, and we’ve been left with this kind of alternative individuality. “That’s part of why the Left are no longer viable. We all see things as an individual, not from the view of a community.” The album title, in a typically oblique way, is a reference to HMLTD’s inherent air of protest.
West of Eden is a reference to biblical banishment, a nod to Chisholm’s broader metaphor. They’re not religious, so much as borrowing the imagery to make a point. In this case, it’s about the band’s own “spiritual quest” – one they hope to bring an audience along with. “We live in a world that’s toxic, and full of exploitation,” Chisholm continues. He’s happy to talk about this stuff in depth – delivering the message, it seems, is the core purpose of the music. “It sits oddly, releasing a record in a commercial
HMTLD
way,” he admits. “We don’t think we’re going to bring down a system, of course. “That’s not realistic, it’s more about spreading a message. We have to work with what exists.” “We wrote about 30 songs,” he says of the record. “The result is a record with a lot of different influences, it’s really, really varied. “To us it still feels like an album, though we could have done a second album in the process. “The original album [the one recorded with Sony, but never released] felt like a collection of
songs rather than a connected whole. “This one is the story of a downward spiral. It’s heavily influenced by Nine Inch Nails, who are probably the most important band to us. “It’s certainly been a rollercoaster, and a bit of a struggle,” he laughs. “It’s been a strange thing to go through. We had a lot of hype, but you come out of the other end of that, and then you’re considered to be ‘established’ and it doesn’t work in quite the same way. “You’re not quite flavour of the month anymore, and
GOINGOUTOUT OUT FEBRUARY 6 (THURSDAY)
Local Boy @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €7 Beak @ the Button Factory, €22 Eoin Martin @ Crowbar, FREE
FEBRUARY 7 (FRIDAY)
Fruitz @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €10
FEBRUARY 8 (SATURDAY)
Mae Muller @ The Academy, €16 Algiers @ Whelan’s, €15 Fin Furey @ Whelan’s (Upstairs), €10
FEBRUARY 10 (MONDAY)
Tenacious D @ 3Arena, €50 (right) Bombay Bicycle Club @ Vicar Street, SOLD OUT The Menzingers @ Whelan’s, €25
that’s okay, but then it’s time to go out and do something real, something that makes your point.” That point? It’s clear in Chisholm’s mind that the whole thing is a protest statement. “We’re speaking out against cookie-cutter culture,” he says. “Against brainlessness, taking things for granted, and regurgitation. It hits to the current situation. Not everyone’s going to like it. We’re fine with that.” H M LT D p l a y T h e Soundhouse, Dublin, on February 18. Tenacious D
FEBRUARY 11 (TUESDAY)
Bombay Bicycle Club @ Vicar Street, SOLD OUT Sean McConnell @ Whelan’s, €20
FEBRUARY 12 (WEDNESDAY)
Sigala @ The Olympia Theatre, €24 Cuig @ Whelan’s, €15
6 February 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17
DUBLIN ENTERTAINMENT
Explore when Animals ruled Dublin GANGSTERS are never far away from the capital’s headlines, these days – but there’s nothing new on our Fair City’s streets, with gangsters a common issue for many a long year. In fact, one gang – the Animals – were a particular problem back in the day, in the 1930s and into the 40s, with Ballyfermot author Dylan Henvey turning to their exploits for his new work, Animals. Described as the untold story of Francis Lawless, founder and sole surviving member of the infamous Animal gang, the 60-minute rehearsed reading promises to bring some fascinating insights into Dublin in the good old, bad old days back into the light. Dylan’s looking forward to presenting his new work to Dublin audiences, with some startling tales from Dublin’s largely forgotten criminal world for Animals to draw from. He says: “The Animals were a real Dublin street gang who first appeared in news stories in the 1930s and continued to make headline into the 40s. “They were the Irish ‘Peaky Blinders’ – they are legendary Dublin folklore. “I felt it’s about time their legend was
told, and was brought to life.” However, Animals is more than just the tale of gangsters, Dylan says, as it also nods at some of the changes and history in the city at the time. He says: “It is set around the Printers’ Strike in Dublin in 1934. This is the start of a story which will take my protagonist, Francis Lawless, from innocent newsboy to founder of the legendary Animal gang, and head of the Dublin underground.” That base of real-life struggle in the city influences Animal, with some famous Dublin and Irish figures also featuring in the tale, including Eoin O’Duffy, leader of the Blue Shirts; Frank Ryan, the famous Socialist and Republican, and even ‘Lugs’ Branigan, Dublin’s most legendary police officer. Dylan says: “We have so much history in this city, but 90% of history goes undocumented or unnoticed and gets lost, especially Working Class history. “The Working Class have a history; they had lives that mattered. They had adventures, they should be heard and remembered, not forgotten.” See Animals at 4pm on Sunday, February 23 at the main space, Smock Alley.
Ballyfermot author Dylan Henvey: “The Working Class have a history; they had lives that mattered. They had adventures, they should be heard and remembered, not forgotten.”
18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 6 February 2020
6 February 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19
GENERAL ELECTION 2020
WE SPEAK TO THREE OF THE FIVE DUBLIN-BASED PARTY LEADERS*
*Dublin Gazette contacted the main Dublin-based party leaders, with these being the parties who had responded by the time of going to print
GENERAL ELECTION 2020
Social Democrats are keen to be
a meaningful alternative to just the same old status quo in power CÓILÍN DUFFY
Green Party’s agenda fits nicely with priorities for Dublin voters who want a breath of fresh air GREEN PARTY leader Eamon Ryan believes that his party’s manifesto on Green issues and climate change policies fits well with the priorities of voters in Dublin. Speaking exclusively to Dublin Gazette Group Editor Cóilín Duffy, Ryan says that he doesn’t believe that it is harder to drive the Green agenda in the capital city. “We’ll see on election day, because our slogan is if you want Green vote Green!,” he said. “What we are presenting is our vision for the future. I think it’s as relevant in the centre of Dublin, as it is anywhere in the country.” He added, “It’s about the same basic. You make it easier to do the right thing in how we move around and how we manage our homes. In how we deal with waste – in how we look after nature – including in our own city. “Nature isn’t just something out in the far distant world – it’s Dublin Bay; it’s the Dublin hills; it’s every park. I think our vision is as relevant in Dublin as it is for the people in any part of the
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I think it’s voting for a different way of doing things and the public service will have a bigger role country, and, indeed in any part of the World. “This transition is so significant. It involves everyone and every place matters, including every community in Dublin.” Waste charges are always a hot topic of debate, and across the capital private operators are constantly proposing an increase in charges. Ryan says that it’s perhaps time to go back to the old model, where the local councils looked after waste collection themselves. “I think the broad market model that everyone bought into for the last 20 or 30 years isn’t delivering,” he said. “I think there is a widespread public consensus or political consensus that, such as in certain key areas like housing, waste and water we need public enterprise. You
need public services delivered by public companies. “I think that’s one of the key things in this election. The past 10 years have been the status quo, really, trying to just get back our economy, but now the next 10 years are what we are voting on here. “I think voting Green is for a different way of doing things and the public service will have a bigger role. “It’s not saying there isn’t a role for business; it’s not saying there isn’t a role for enterprise, but there are certain public services that are best delivered by public companies– housing being one, water obviously another, and I think waste is another.” Looking at the broader picture of taking responsibility in combating climate change, Ryan says it’s important to continue to build
on the good relationships with other countries in this regard. “The Paris Climate Agreement sets the broader picture. That’s every country having to contribute. Locally for us it’s as a member of the European Union that we collaboratively work together with our other European colleagues. “We can’t do it on our own, but we can’t opt out either. We have to play our part, because it’s better to be a leader rather than a laggered on this because this is where the new economy is going. “This is something we can and will be good at.” Housing is also a key issue in this election, and Ryan outlines what he believes is a potential solution. “The key thing is supply and what type of supply. I think that should be costrental housing. It’s the type of housing that would most acutely address the crisis which is in the rental sector. “I think it would change our whole concept and perception of public housing and that’s why I support it.”
SOCIAL DEMOCRATS coleader Róisín Shortall says it means a huge amount to her to get the chance to contest another general election, with the possibility of representing her constituents once again. She has been at the head of the Social Democrats since June 2015, but her Dáil involvement stretches a lot further back, when she first assumed office in November 1992 as a Labour Party T.D. “Getting elected to the Dáil by your neighbours and people in your constituency is a huge honour,” Shortall told Dublin Gazette. “It’s very humbling from that point of view. I always feel very grateful to people after an election, if I succeed in being re-elected. “It’s very heart-warming in many ways, but it is also a huge challenge, because what people are doing is they are deciding that they want you to represent them. “That is ultimately what a
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The issues in Dublin North West are very similar to the issues around the country T.D. is – a public representative, and given the fact that I have been a T.D. since 1992 it is about track record, and I think I have done a lot of work over those years. “It’s reassuring if I am re-elected, but I don’t take anything for granted, I can assure you.” Speaking about some of the key issues for her constituents, Shortall sees this mirroring the national picture. “The issues in Dublin North West are very similar to the issues around the country,” she said. “Probably the top issue is health, and concern about the fact that it is so hard to access care in the public health system, and then a lot of people are afraid of not being able to do that, and that the service won’t be
there when they need it. “Then they are forced into a situation where they are forced to buy very expensive private health insurance and it shouldn’t be like that, because other European countries have proper public health services that actually work and are available to people when they need them. “There’s also an older demographic and access to healthcare is more important as people get on in years. “The other issue is housing. Housing is so unaffordable now for people and it doesn’t have to be like that. “The problem is that both Fine Gael and Fianna Fáil leave the responsibility for housing to the market, and the market, of course, won’t deliver affordable housing.” Are more laws needed in
relation to housing? “I wouldn’t say it is about laws, it’s about political beliefs,” Shortall counters. “We in the Social Democrats very strongly believe that the government has a responsibility to ensure that there is enough housing available, but also that it is about it being affordable to people. “That means affordable, whether you want to buy or you want to rent. “The other area obviously is that there is sufficient social housing. Currently that is not happening at all. “The outgoing government is very much dependant on the market, both in terms of the housing assistance payment, rather than building social housing. “Overall, they are not doing anything to drive down the cost of housing to make it available. “If you have a decent job, you should be able to afford a decent house, and that’s not the case at the moment.”
People Before Profit want to see the people put centre-stage right at the heart of decision-making CÓILÍN DUFFY RICHARD BOYD BARRETT is keen to stress the message which is contained in his party’s name, that it’s about people before profit. The Solidarity-PBP Leader contests the Dun Laoghaire constituency once again this weekend, and says that people should be centre stage, when it comes to decisionmaking. “I do think the problem that lies behind many of the crises that we face in Irish society at the moment is an economic system – the major political parties putting profit over the major needs of society,” he told Dublin Gazette. “Whether it is in the area of housing; whether it is the two-tier of a semi-privatised healthcare system; whether it is the unbalanced distribution of wealth, where a small minority control most of the wealth and huge numbers of people are struggling. “At many other levels you can see that profit is prioritised by the political estab-
“
Frankly, the school students have been as effective, if not more effective than the politicians in driving the climate agenda lishment over the needs of people. “We want to move in the opposite direction. “We think people have the right to affordable housing, to a decent healthcare system, to properly resourced education, or indeed other things like special needs and disability, public transport. “I think that can only happen if we start meeting people’s needs – the services and the rights that they have, rather than the profits of corporations or vulture funds.” Smaller parties such as PBP have made great strides in recent years against the more established forces. When asked if he would prefer to be in or out of Government, Boyd-Barrett said that the key thing is staying true to your beliefs.
“It’s neither of those things,” he said. “It’s about sticking to your convictions, whether you are in government, or in opposition; or indeed whether you are the school students out on the streets protesting. “Frankly, the school students have been as effective, if not more effective than the politicians in driving the climate agenda. “We saw it with the water movement, and we saw it with Repeal the 8th. It’s not just about being in government or being a minister. “It’s about sticking to principles and convictions whether you are inside or outside the Dáil, or whether you are inside or outside government and driving an agenda for progressive change.” Many national issues in this
election are also local ones, and Boyd-Barrett sees it no differently, with housing a key priority for his constituents. “Housing and public housing are key issues,” he said. “Rents that are affordable for people – the whole picture around housing is one of the biggest crises if not the biggest crisis. “The shambolic state of the health service and the inequity in terms of accessing healthcare, whether you are public or private – that inequality has to go. “The cost of living for people working very hard, but having absolutely nothing at the end of the month because of unfair taxes, charges and rising bills, has to be addressed. “Then obviously climate change is in existential threat to all of us. “The government’s record has been diabolical in taking the sort of radical measures that are necessary to deal with the climate emergency.”
20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 6 February 2020
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6 February 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21
WHAT’S NEW IN THE WORLD OF TRANSPORT
DUBLIN MOTORS
The new Corolla Touring Sports TREK model impresses with some excellent driving dynamics, alongside a pleasingly rugged identity and confident design
Toyota’s TREK model boldly goes FACT BOX
DECLAN GLYNN
WITH the introduction of the new Corolla Touring Sports TREK model, Toyota has made their strikingly-handsome, and utterly-practical, estate car even more appealing. By e l e v a t i n g t h e standard Corolla Touring Sports (T/S) ride height by 20mm, and adding some cladding to the bodywork, the new TREK takes on a rugged and durable identity. Available in frontwheel-drive only, the TREK is best described as
1) Rugged, off-road styling 2) Petrol/electric hybrid 3) Powerful and practical 4) Impressively spacious 5) On sale now a car that sits somewhere between a regular estate car and a SUV, with the car being the result of a partnership between Toyota and cycle manufacturer, TREK. Externally, to set the TREK apart from the re g u l a r Co ro l l a T/S, design differences con-
sist of chunkier bumpers (complete with skid plates front and rear to lend an air of off-roading authenticity), while black 17” machined-face alloy wheels (5x doublespoke) also feature. Additionally, the TREK comes with a chrome dual exhaust pipe fin-
isher, black wheel arch mouldings, black rocker panel with silver insert, rear privacy glass, new front fog lamps, LED headlamps, and a TREK badge on the boot door for total exclusivity. Inside, the Corolla TREK has new twotone cloth upholstery, a redesigned dashboard with decorative wooden inlays, and TREK badges for its door-steps and boot lid. Powering the new Corolla T/S TREK is a powerful new 2.0-litre petrol/electric powertrain, which produces
178bhp, and a healthy 190Nm of torque, for instant acceleration. This new 4-cylinder, 16-valve engine, is capable of fuel consumption as low as 5.3l/100km on a combined driving cycle, while enabling the car to tow a braked trailer of up to 750kg in weight. The new Corolla T/S T R E K h a s e xc e l l e n t space in the front for two adults, while passengers in the rear are provided with good head, elbow and legroom too. Boot space, with the rear seat backs in place, is a generous 581 litres,
but this can be greatly increased by folding the standard 60:40 split rear seats when the need arises. My review car performed admirably well on a variety of road surfaces, with very little wind noise from around the door mirrors. At a steady motorway speed, the car’s engine tone is hardly noticeable at all, while excellent driving dynamics ensure that the car remains composed when faced with a twisty country road too. The hugely impressive
new Toyota Corolla is the Continental Tyres Irish Medium Car of the Year for 2020 – a category which is fiercely competitive. While the new Corolla Hybrid range is priced from just €26,390 (exdelivery), the Corolla T/S TREK is competitively priced at €35,990 (exdelivery). With its rugged ‘go anywhere looks’ and remarkable practicality, the new Corolla T/S TREK is proving a very worthwhile new addition to the Toyota Corolla family.
Renault to give away 36 Clios to support charity RENAULT Ireland is partnering with Irish charity The Care Trust (TCT) to supply 36 all-new Renault Clios for its series of fundraising lottery draws in 2020. Renault Ireland brand ambassador, broadcaster Ian Dempsey, was on hand to help launch the new partnership. TCT is a non-profit organisation and a registered charity, raising much needed funds for the CRC, Rehab, and the Mater University Hospital since 1974. In 2019, TCT provided €2.15 million to CRC, Rehab and the Mater Hospital from its fundraising efforts. These funds help to ensure that thousands of children and adults
with physical, medical or intellectual disabilities, those who are socially disadvantaged, and those requiring medical care have the opportunity to achieve their full potential. TCT runs three draws every month, and an all-new Renault Clio must be won in every draw. In the 30 years since the iconic supermini first went on sale, Clio has become Renault’s best-selling model worldwide, with 15 million Clios sold. The fifth generation of Clio arrived with a totally refreshed exterior styling combined with revolutionary interior design, and sets new standards for quality, technology and practicality.
It’s also one of the safest cars in its class, as highlighted by its five-star EuroNCAP rating. Co n o r D ixo n , Renault Ireland, said: “We’re delighted to partner with TCT, which does such fantastic work through its benefic iaries at the CRC, Rehab and the Mater Hospital. Broadcaster Ian Dempsey helps to launch the initiative “We wish all 36 lucky winners safe and happy driv- TCT, said: “We are very grateful to ing in their Renault Clios.” Renault Ireland for their tremenSenan Mullins, chief executive, dous support and goodwill and we
are looking forward to a great partnership which will offer our contributors 36 chances this year to win an all-new Renault Clio, along with cash prizes in every draw. “TCT has been fundraising since 1974, thanks to our generous and loyal contributors from all across the country, who make a huge difference to the lives of children and adults in Ireland who depend on the fantastic services provided by CRC, Rehab and the Mater University Hospital.”
22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 6 February 2020
DUBLIN TRAVEL
Chinese citizens have adopted widespread use of masks in affected areas in a bid to stay safe
Governments and travel sectors scramble to cope with ‘Wuhan flu’ threat THERE’S no getting away from it: the coronavirus (dubbed ‘Wuhan Flu’ by some) looms large over global travel at the moment. Here at home, travel and life is unaffected – for now – but this swiftly-developing global issue could yet prove to be very disruptive for Irish holidaymakers, or indeed for the country. China still remains the epicentre for the Wuhan virus, tragically seeing soaring deaths and infection rates, while regional countries and governments, and others around the world, are all also mobilising in a bid to get ahead of the virus’s spread. At the time of writing, the Department of Foreign Affairs has flagged China as ‘Avoid non-essential travel’; meanwhile, Hong Kong/Macau remain at ‘High degree of caution’, unmoved from the general level prompted by the ongoing protests from 2019. If you are planning on visiting China, or for the Department’s up to date official advice on any particular country, see https://www.dfa.ie/travel/ travel-advice/a-z-list-of-countries. ITAA Statement The Department isn’t the only official Irish body that’s closely monitoring the Wuhan virus – the Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) have also put out a statement on the coronavirus’s impact. In a statement, the ITAA say: “The ITAA is recommending that customers avoid travelling to the Hubei province of China entirely, and reconsider travelling to the rest of China unless it is absolutely essential. “The ITAA is also advising affected holidaymakers in the country to follow the advice of the Department of Foreign Affairs, Chinese local authorities and accommodation providers. “As the situation remains fluid, containment measures could be increased at any time. Travellers should be aware of delays and checks when moving within China, entering or leaving, especially at airports. “If you are affected, you should contact your tour operator or travel agent. “The Department of Foreign Affairs is advising travellers already in the country to take extra care, wash their hands regularly with alcohol-based soap, wear single-use masks and observe food safety as recommended by the World Health Organisation. “As this situation is developing rapidly, they have also advised following guidelines on the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control website, at www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/novel-coronaviruschina. Latest travel updates can be found on the Department’s TravelWise app, at www.dfa.ie/travelwise/
Ballynahinch Castle Hotel, in stunning Connemara, could help you ‘pop the question’ in unforgettable style
Have a lovely break away on February 14 SHANE DILLON
Travel Editor IT’S THAT time of year again – but if you haven’t yet found a lovely place to take your other half to for a great Valentine’s Day break, don’t panic. This week, we have a range of breaks at home or away which are guaranteed to be a hit with your loved one. Dublin First up, and why not step over to The Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Dublin? Not everyone has the time or the budget to head off down the coun-
try, or even further away, so a stay practically on your own doorstep could still be a brilliant idea. And with a luxurious stay guaranteed, the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel is sure to offer a superb stay for a special night. After all, apart from the hotel’s sheer luxury, guests will also be treated to an exclusively designed bouquet delivered to the hotel and placed in their room before arrival, courtesy of premium contemporary florists Adonis Flower Designers. The hotel’s Valentine’s package also includes a three-course dinner for
two at the tasteful Chancery Grill, while a complimentary ‘Fancy That’ cocktail should also go down a treat. Available from next Thursday, February 13 to Sunday. February 16, the hotel’s Valentine stay costs from €350 per couple, to include an overnight in a Premium King room, dinner for two in The Chancery Grill with a cocktail, an exclusive premium bouquet, and Super Breakfast in bed, with bubbles, and late check-out. See www.radissonblu.com/royalhoteldublin, or call the hotel directly at 01 898 2900.
Galway If you’re looking to leave the city behind, whisk yourselves away to the west coast for a romantic break in the heart of Galway. Nicknamed ‘the grand old dame of Galway’, the historic Hardiman Hotel has been a hit with guests since originally opening in 1852. However, the hotel has moved with the times, and while honouring its past it also offers a very contemporary stay, with a special Heartfelt package likely to wow this Valentine’s period. A one-night stay features open fires, a rooftop
hot tub, a rose and handmade-chocolates waiting in your room, and a candlelit dinner for two in the hotel’s Gaslight Brassserie. And after that, all the craic of Galway is waiting, offering a great night out in the west’s fun-filled city. The Heartfelt package is available from €199 per room, based on two sharing. See www.thehardiman.ie. Connemara Staying over on ‘the other coast’, Ballynahinch Castle Hotel in Recess, Connemara has everything you could
6 February 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23
OUR SUGGESTIONS FOR A ROMANTIC BREAK
DUBLIN TRAVEL
The ferry company is positive about the route change, saying it will be attractive for trade and tourism alike
Brittany Ferries to move its Ireland/Spain ports
From free flowers to fine dining, The Radisson Blu Royal Hotel, Dublin has a perfect Valentine package for you
You’ll be in hot tub heaven at the Hardiman Hotel, with all the fun that Galway has to offer on your doorstep
FERRY users, take note – Brittany Ferries is moving its Ireland/Spain sailings from Cork to Rosslare Eurosport from the end of the month, with the new Spanish arrival port from Rosslare to be Bilbao. Taking effect from February 28, the change has been made following extensive consultation with freight customers, with the new route providing better, shorter access to European markets. That particular ferry route has primarily been aimed at freight users, although holidaymakers have also been a core user base of the route. All customers already booked on affected sailings from Cork will be given the option to transfer their booking to sailing between Rosslare and Bilbao/ Roscoff. An allowance will be given to cover additional transfers. Alternatively, a full refund will be provided to those who choose to cancel.
Celebrating the best of the Irish travel industry
Marry a romantic break with some superb golf with a stay at Carton House, just a short drive away from Dublin city
need for an unforgettable Valentine’s break. The hotel is set in one of the calmest, yet most beautiful corners of the country, with everything from the building’s charms to woodland views and a rolling river by the gorgeous country estate sure to delight – especially if you’re (sssh) planning to ‘pop the question’. If so, the hotel already has a plan in place to help, ready to whisk out everything from special picnic butler with a picnic basket to a bottle of chilled champagne to help, if required, as part of a special package.
However, if you’re ‘just’ looking for a holiday away, you’ll be more than charmed by the hotel and its superb setting. With two nights’ bed and breakfast in one of Ballynahinch Castle’s lovely Riverside rooms with views over the river, a package including the picnic butler proposal and celebratory candlelit dinner costs from €380 per person. For further information, see www.ballynahinchcastle.com, or telephone 095 31006. Kildare If the west of Ireland is a little beyond the pale for you, Carton House
should be just the ticket. Set just outside the city in Maynooth, the hotel has made quite a name for itself with its beautiful setting in 1,100 acres, and while the building itself has centuries of history, its 36-hole golfing experfience has also put it on the map. Whether you love golf quite as much as your other half, Carton House will be a hit, potentially offering nature and sport lovers something a little different for this Valentine’s Day. The hotel is offering a two-night golfing break, arriving on February 14, and priced at €260 per
person sharing. For further information, see www.cartonhouse. com. Europe Finally, for those ready to spread their wings a little further, a whole host of European capitals are within easy reach – the tricky part can be finding an afforable place. So, why not turn to the award-winning boutique accommodation provider Generator, which has particularly stylish and comfy places to stay in a wide range of EU capitals? Whether it’s Venice, London, Copenhagen, Hamburg, Berlin, Barce-
lona, Paris, Amsterdam, Stockholm, Rome or Madrid in your sights – or even right here in Dublin – there’s a Generator to choose from. Gone are the days of dorms full of rickety bunk beds and musky backpackers – the Generator experience offers a much more comfortable (not to mention affordable) way of taking in a foreign capital with ease. Depending on location, prices vary – but your bank account will love that there are 20% off entire stays (two nights’ minium stay) when booking directly at staygenerator.com.
HUNDREDS of travel experts from across the country and all around the world gathered at the Mansion House for the annual Irish Travel Industry Awards recently. The popular shin-dig was a chance to network, reflect on continuing and emerging trends in the industry and, of course, to celebrate some of the very best companies and individuals at work in the industry. Heavyweights Atlantic Travel and Tour America were crowned ITAA Travel Agencies of the Year 2020. Other big winners on the night included John Spollen, president of the ITAA, Atlas Travel congratulated Marie Grenham, and FCM, managing director, Grenham Travel who won on winning the ITAA Presidents’ Best ITAA Award for special contributions to Corporate the Irish travel industry Travel Agency; CaminoWays, who won Best ITAA Member Digital Marketing Campaign; and J Barter Travel, who won Best ITAA General Marketing Campaign. Siobhan Byrne Learat, of Adams & Butler, won Best ITAA Travel Professional. For the full list of awards, see http://irishtravelindustryawards.com/2020-winners/.
24 DUBLIN GAZETTE 6 February 2020
HOME & STYLE
FRESH IDEAS FOR YOUR WARDROBE
BeautyBITS
Founder of HUDA Beauty, Huda Kattan
Huda Beauty joins beauty at Boots SUPERSTAR beauty brand, Huda Beauty, has joined a legendary line up of beauty brands at Boots.ie, with a limited assortment of Huda’s Hero products to be available in selected Boots stores from early February. This brings Huda Beauty to the high street, joining other cult brands like Milani, Lime Crime and Morphe in Boots evergrowing beauty line-up. “We’re super excited to be launching Huda Beauty in Boots. Boots are an incredible retailer and we are so thankful to them for their support and belief in our brand and vision. Our global expansion has been very quick and to now be partnering with Boots to bring Huda Beauty to the high street is both humbling and mind blowing! We’re so proud that we can truly spread the love across Ireland.” said Huda Kattan, Founder and CEO of Huda Beauty. For more information on Huda Beauty and to check out the products on offer, visit Boots.ie
Zalando launch new capsule collection ONLINE retailer Zalando has teamed up with nine Nordic brands to develop an exclusive, sustainable womenswear collection, titled Small steps. Big impact. by Zalando. Lena-Sophie Roeper, Head of Buying Premium and Sports, Zalando, says: “As a platform with more than 29 million active customers in 17 countries and more than 2,000 brands, we know that we can influence the demand for and the supply of sustainable fashion. “That’s why we’re introducing our customers to sustainable fashion, working with partners who share our vision and ethics, and move the industry forward, every day. The collection is a huge step in the right direction.” This collection follows the release of their Sustainability Strategy 2023, titled do.MORE, in October 2019. Small steps. Big impact. by Zalando is available now on Zalando.ie
SPRING REFRESH READY to hit refresh and bring some spring into your wardrobe? There’s a grand stretch in the evenings, meaning colour and flowy fabrics are back on the cards as we wave goodbye to Winter. Spring is the perfect time to try out new trends and get a lit-
tle daring with your wardrobe. Online Irish retailer iclothing. com is serving up wearable, bold prints, brighter colours and a retro feel with their newest collection, that’s sure to brighten up the days as we creep into slightly warmer, nicer weather.
Animal and retro prints are a must this season, as well as polka dots, teamed with a certain 90’s edge thanks to neon SHADES, PUFF SLEEVES AND faded denim all making a comeback.
These trends all had a moment on the catwalks for Spring 2020 this season, with iclothing.com translating these trends into affordable styles for those looking to get in on the hottest looks this season.
6 February 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 25
POLSKA GAZETA
This week we bring you Part Two in our exclusive CHALLENGE YOUR BRAIN...JUST FOR FUN! interview with the new Polish Ambassador
Sochanska takes pride in role as the new ambassador for Poland MARTYNA
MUSZCZYNSKA news@dublingazette.com
THERE’s no doubt that Her Excellency Anna Sochanska takes great pride in her new role as the Polish Ambassador in Ireland. It’s a challenging role, but one which she has taken on with great gusto, and already is firmly bedded in, despite being just a few months in the position. Anna has a keen interest in foreign affairs, something which has been high in her thoughts since her early twenties. Moreover, Anna and her family grew up during a time of Communism in Poland. However, she is keen to accentuate the positives from it. “ We r e m e m b e r e d Poland’s rich history and what the country was like before the Second World War,” she told Dublin Gazette. “Polish people never surrendered, although they lived through a very horrific period of the German, and thereafter the Soviet occupation.’’ “Both of those regimes wanted to crush Poland and its people, but they have failed to do so as Polish people are very resilient.’’ Furthermore, as Anna says ‘’those characteristics gave us power and motivation. It is true that Polish people love their country and are very proud of it and its
Martyna Muszczynska, Cóilín Duffy (Group Editor Dublin Gazette) and Polish Ambassador Anna Sochanska Martyna Muszczynska, Cóilín Duffy (redaktor grupy Dublin Gazette) i Polska Ambasador Anna Sochanska
Sochańska jest dumna z roli Ambasadora MARTYNA
MUSZCZYNSKA news@dublingazette.com
BEZ jakichkolwiek wątpliwości można uznać, iż Pani Anna jest dumna ze swojej nowej roli Ambasadora RP w Irlandii. Rola Ambasadora RP w Irlandii jest trudna. Aczkolwiek, Pani Anna podjęła się tej roli z wielkim rozmachem i jest już mocno zadomowiona, pomimo tego, że jest zaledwie kilka miesięcy na tej pozycji. Od wczesnych lat dwudziestych Pani Anna interesowała się sprawami zagranicznymi. Pani Ambasador i jej rodzina dorastali w czasach komunizmu w Polsce, jednak chce wyciagnąć z tego wydarzenia pozytywne wnioski. „Pamiętaliśmy o bogatej historii Polski i tym, jaki był ten kraj przed drugą wojną światową” – powiedziała Pani Anna Dubachievements.’’ “A t t h e m o m e n t Poland is flourishing in terms of employment,
lin Gazette. „Polacy nigdy się nie poddali, choć przeżyli bardzo przerażający okres okupacji niemieckiej, a następnie okupacji sowieckiej”. „Oba te reżimy chc iały zmiażdżyć Polskę i jej mieszkańców, ale nie dokonali tego, ponieważ Polacy są bardo silni”. Ponadto, Pani Anna mówi, iż „te cechy” dały nam siłę i motywację. Prawdą jest, że Polacy kochają swój kraj i są z niego bardzo dumni oraz z jego osiągnięć.” „W chwili obecnej Polska kwitnie pod względem pracy, gospodarki i polityki społecznej, są to pozytywne aspekty, na których powinniśmy się skupić.” Pani Ambasador wyraża zaniepokojenie na podstawie marnowania pełnego potencjału Polski i Irlandii, ponieważ oba kraje koncentrują się na wielu kwestiach wspólnego zainteresowania, niemniej jednak nie „zjednoczyły się” jeszcze na
e co n o my a n d so c i a l policies and those are the positive aspects we should focus on.’’
The Polish Ambassador expresses her concern about how the full potential of Poland and
podstawie dyskusji wielu tematów. „Czas zmienić stereotyp Polaków, którzy są zatrudnieni nie tylko jako piekarze lub hydraulicy, ponieważ wielu z nich pracuje dla wielkich firm, takich jak Facebook, Google itp.” – powiedziała pani Anna. „ I s t n i e j ą ró ż n e p ro f i l e Po l a kó w mieszkających i pracujących w Irlandii.” Pani Anna chciałaby wysłać Irlandczyków do Polski, aby mogli doświadczyć pełnego piękna jej ojczyzny. „Polska jest krajem bogatym pod względem przyrodniczym, ponieważ składa się z wielu gór, mórz i jezior, dla Irlandczyków ważne byłoby, aby zobaczyli wszystko, co Polska ma do zaoferowania.” Niemniej jednak, bariera językowa w Polsce już nie istnieje, co jest ważne, ponieważ jest łatwiej zarówno dla Irlandczyków, jak i Polaków w kwestii porozumienia się. ‘’
Ireland is being wasted, as both countries are focused on many issues of common interests, but
that perhaps they have yet to ‘come together’ on a lot of these topics. “It is time to change
the stereotype of Polish people as they are not only employed as bakers or plumbers but work for enormous companies such as Facebook, Google etc,” she said. “There are different profiles of Polish people living and working in Ireland.” Anna would like to send Irish people to Poland in order for them to experience the full beauty of her native country. “Poland is a rich country in terms of nature as it consists of many mountains, seas and lakes and it would be important for Irish people to see all that Poland has to offer.’’ Nevertheless, the language barrier in Poland no longer exists, which makes things easier for both Irish and Polish people alike.’’
WOULD YOU LIKE TO ADVERTISE IN POLSKA GAZETA? EACH week, DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS are focusing on news and views for the Polish community with Polska Gazeta.
Would you or your business like to get on board? If you or any advertiser would like to be involved with this new concept,
and to be part of a sponsorship option, please contact Martyna Muszczynska at her email below.
Polish Correspondant Martyna Muszcynska • sales@dublingazette.com
26 DUBLIN GAZETTE 6 February 2020
DUBLIN SENIORS
Where there’s a will ... has yours been made clear? MAKING a will is not something that any of us relish, but it’s also one of the most important things that you can do in your life. After all, a will gives certainty – certainty for you, and potentially for your loved ones, that your wishes are known, clear, recorded and all arranged. With that certainty comes a likely peace of mind, but it can be hard to know where to start, how to go about making your will, who to turn to, and other such issues. Here, we present some helpful insights to get you started. Note, however, that this is an initial and incomplete overview, and legal advice or assistance is strongly advisable. REASONS FOR MAKING A WILL If you die without a will, the law on intestacy decides what happens to your property. A will can ensure that proper arrangements are made for your dependants and that your property is distributed in the way you wish after you die, subject to certain rights of spouses/civil partners and children. It is also advisable to complete and keep in a safe place an updated list of your assets, making it easier to identify and trace them after you die. WHAT HAPPENS IF YOU DIE HAVING MADE A WILL? If you have made a valid will, you will have died ‘testate’, and all your possessions will be distributed in the way you set out in your will, with your named executor(s), who may also be a beneficiary, ensuring this happens. There are legal limits as to how much of your property goes to which person. If you leave a will before you die, one or more of your named executors will usually have to get legal permission (a Grant of Representation) from the Probate Office, or the District Probate Registry for the area in which you lived at the time of death, deal with your estate – typically gathering all your money or possessions, paying your debts, then distributing the remainder as instructed. If you did not name any executors in your will or if the executors are unable or unwilling to apply for a Grant of Representation, Letters of Administration (With Will) are issued. When your estate is distributed, the legal rights of your spouse/civil partner and children, if any, will be fulfilled first after any debts are paid before any other gifts are considered. THE REQUIREMENTS OF A VALID WILL It is possible to draw up a will yourself, or you can hire a solicitor to help you. For a will to be legally valid, there are several rules that apply, such as the will must be in writing, you must be of sound mind, you must sign or mark the will or acknowledge the signature or mark in the presence of two witnesses, you must be over 18, and several other such rules.
This week, ALONE CEO Seán Moynihan talks issues a call for action on housing and health for older people ahead of the upcoming Election
‘We are failing to plan for needs of our older people’ WITH every budget and general election campaign, promises to add a fiver to the pension come in thick and fast. In recent weeks we have also seen a huge c o nve rs a t i o n s h i f t regarding the increases to the pension age as political parties scramble to come up with solutions to address a gap in a policy which has been there for more than six years. But the current ‘pensions anomaly’ as it is being described is just o n e e xa m p l e o f t h e many ways we are failing to plan for the needs of older people. We know there are more than 7,000 people on the waiting list for home supports, and the funding that is needed to meet the demand. We see the images of older people who are homeless eating their meals from windowsills. We hear there are more people on hospital trolleys than ever before. And importantly, we see the population projections which mean that these issues will impact more and more older people in the years to come. We see these problems, and we know many of the answers, but sufficient action is not being taken to address them. The issues raised by the increasing eligibility age for the State Pension must be urgently addressed. But this is not the only issue impacting older people, and politicians would do well to remember it. We need
to have a full discussion about the needs of older people, most particularly in the areas of health, housing and finance. The fact is we are not putting the measures in place which will appropriately support older people who are most vulnerable. In ALONE we see this every day in our work. Waiting list In recent months we have worked with someone living in an extremely isolated area who has been on the waiting list for the home support service for seven years. We have worked with older people with terminal diagnoses who are homeless or living in unstable accommodation. We have worked with people who cut back on their heating and food so that they can afford transport to hospital appointments. These are the people who are not taken into account as Government policies are drafted and changes are made, the people who never felt any economic recovery. Older people need more from their representatives than a commitment to add a fiver to the State Pension. We need representatives who will deliver real change for the older people we work with, for those most in need of support. We need the next Government to fund home supports and health services in line with
“
Older people need more from their representatives than a commitment to add a fiver to the State Pension
demand, to increase housing delivery targets and deliver housing for older people, to triple lock the State Pension to ensure older people have financial security, and to appoint a Minister of State exclusively for Older People and Demographic Change who can properly plan for the needs and opportunities of our ageing population. We need the actions outlined in Sláintecare to be implemented without further delay, for fur-
ther supports for renters to be put in place, and for homelessness exit programmes to be delivered for older people experiencing homelessness.
Vulnerable If the next Government does not implement these actions, the most vulnerable older people in our society will continue to be left behind. A fiver on the pension here and there is not enough. We must demand more from our representatives.
No matter what age we are, we all have a responsibility ahead of the General Election to inform canvassers and candidates that we will consider the needs of older people a priority when we make decisions on Election Day, and to vote with the needs of older people in mind. A vote for older people is not just a vote for older people today, but for all our future selves. Seán Moynihan is ALONE’s CEO.
6 February 2020 DUBLIN GAZETTE 27
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HOOP DREAMS: BASKETBALL: HALL of Famer Siobhan Caffrey speaks to Dublin Gazette about the sport’s ambitious plans to move further up the food chain in Ireland and join the ‘big three’ sports as central to the national conversation. It follows her being co-opted to a strategic working group with plans to raise the game between now and 2030.
GAZETTE
SOCCER P32
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LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS INFORM YOU OF THE HIGHLIGHTS AND SCORES OF YOUR FAVOURITE TEAMS RUGBY | FIRST HALF OF JOB DONE AS ENERGIA PARK AWAITS
Club matters close to heart for Wesley trio CLUB XV INTERNATIONAL sport@dublingazette.com
ENERGIA Park will host another Club Series International decider this Friday as Ireland Club XV and Scotland Club XV (5.45pm) go head to head for the Dalriada Cup. The Irish side are made up of the most exciting talent in the Energia All-Ireland League and nine players from four Dublin clubs are named in the match day squad. The Irish won back the trophy in Donnybrook last year and the occasion on their home ground stoked a fire in Old Wesley trio Paul Derham, Conor Maguire and JJ O’Dea. “It was one of my goals to make the clubs team,” says Derham. “I don’t actually know what I’d be doing if I didn’t play rugby. It’s effortless out there. You don’t have to think about anything else. You can set goals, get more out of yourself and get better.” An obvious goal for the squad is to
win both games in the series. Both Derham and Conor Maguire started in the away leg last Friday – a 39-17 win in Galashiels. They have been retained in the starting line-up while O’Dea is named as a reserve. It’s all about delivering a result in front of their own people this weekend. “We’ve worked very hard as a team for the last year,” say Maguire. “For Old Wesley and our club coach Morgan Lennon especially, it would be a massive thing for us to represent Ireland at Energia Park. “We want to play with the best of the best amateur rugby players in the country and to do it on our home pitch in front of club members, family and all the people that we respect.” “It’s quite a special place to play,” says Paul Derham. “I’ve been to a lot of different clubs and you can just feel within the clubhouse that everyone gets behind each other.” There are four Terenure College players in the squad including
Old Wesley’s Paul Derham on the attack last Friday night against Scotland. Picture: Craig Watson/Inpho
Michael Melia in the back-row and Matthew Byrne on the wing. Colm Hogan of Dublin University is on the other wing while Gearoid Lyons of Clontarf is among the replacements. In the first tie last Friday, Ireland post a record score, producing five tries with Bryan Fitzgerald opening
the scoring just eight minutes in. Derham broke the line before playing in Aran Hehir for try number two before the forwards took over for Conor Maguire’s try after 32 minutes. Scotland fought back in the second half but late tries from Jamie Heuston and Matthew Byrne well clear.
SPORT CONTACT INFO SPORTS EDITOR: Stephen Findlater sfindlater@dublingazette.com
For more information or to send in news and photos: sport@dublingazette.com Phone: 01 601 0240
32 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 6 February 2020
CRICKET
SOCCER: CRUCIAL SPELL EITHER SIDE OF HALF-TIME SEES NORTH
Rialto bridge the gap to Challenge Grealey steps back after 40 year innings Cup’s quarters Miriam Grealey receiving her Hall of Fame award with Mary Pat Moore in 2017. Picture: Ryan Byrne/Inpho
INTERNATIONAL captain, Team Manager, Chair of National Selectors and coach – these are just a few of the roles Irish cricket legend Miriam Grealey has held over the last 40 years. On Monday, she announced “all good things must come to an end” and announced she will step down this month as Ireland Women’s selector, ending a 40-year involvement in international cricket. Raised in Dublin and playing primarily with YMCA, Rush and Pembroke Cricket Clubs, she made her international debut in 1985 – playing 79 one-day internationals and one Test match – rising to the national captaincy and breaking many records along the way. After retiring from the international team in 2005, she continued her involvement with Irish women’s cricket as team manager, coach and Chair of National Selectors. Acknowledged as an inspiration and role model for Irish cricketers for generations, in 2017, Grealey has been recognised variously, including her induction into the Cricket Writers of Ireland Hall of Fame in 2017, and international recognition from the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) with Honorary Life Membership for her services to cricket. Although her involvement in Irish cricket has been extensive, Grealey admits there was no ‘grand plan’ behind the last four decades. “How did I stay in cricket so long? Quite simply my love of the game, and every aspect of it - with the exception of manager!” Her introduction to cricket was fortuitous and not out of any family or community tradition: “I went to school at St. Andrews College where there was boys’ cricket, but only hockey for the girls. When I was in fifth year in 1982, one of the teachers Caroline Watson – who at the time played cricket for YMCA and Ireland – asked around to see if any girls were interested in learning the sport. “So, from chucking a tennis ball around in PE classes to actually playing in the school league the following year, I was hooked.” She cites her first century for Ireland against Pakistan as a stand-out memory along with a 50 against Australia in College Park. “I guess though my proudest moment was winning the European Cup with Ireland in 2001, our first major trophy beating England in the final.” She has decided to step back now as a result of the increasing workload of national selector is no longer compatible to balance with her job and family life.
UCFL CHALLENGE CUP Rialto FC Ashwood FC JOHN MOONEY sport@dublingazette.com
2 1
AN AWESOME ten minute spell saw Rialto proved pivotal as they edged out Ashwood in this O’Neills sponsored UCFL Challenge Cup last 16 encounter on Dolphin Road. Goals either side of halftime earned the quarterfinal berth despite a late Paul Tumulty strike for the Clondalkin club. On 37 minutes, Jack Rogers sent over a teasing corner from the left hand side, Ashwood keeper Aaron Clarke parried the ball into the path of Andy Hudson, who was taken down in the area. Up stepped Derek Kelly to smash home the opener from the penalty spot. Two minutes after the restart, it got even better for Rialto as Christopher Morgan burst down the
left and centred for Anto Fermoyle; he steadied himself and delivered a beauty to the back of the net from the edge of the area. It could well have been done and dusted minutes later as Rogers found himself with only the Ashwood net minder to beat but the ball took a slight bobble and he blasted over the bar. It wasn’t a great day for Rogers as he saw a close range effort hit an upright in the opening half. The wind played a major part in this encounter with the visitors playing with it at their backs in the opening half, one in which they had a fair share of possession, but they just couldn’t deliver a killer blow. That was really down to Rialto’s Brial Fennell who played a stormer between the sticks. The game had a look of when a goal eventu-
ally came it would open up good and proper, and when the visitors conceded those two goals in quick succession they knew they had to up their game in order to salvage something from it. They began to get a grip on things and it was in the final 15 minutes that they piled the pressure on the home side. A commanding performance at centre back by Kelly and two brilliant
saves from Fennell to deny Nathen Killeen and Tumulty kept them at bay. Fennell almost put the icing on the cake of a great performance when he dived to his right to save Killeen’s penalty in the dying seconds. But the ball bounced up nicely for Tumboly to nod home, though it was too little too late for the visitors and Rialto booked their place in the quarter finals.
Rialto FC: Brian Fennell, Stephen Wossor, Christopher Meroan, Andy Hudson, Noel Moore, Robbie Canning, Lee Kylie, Cian Knowles, Anto Fermoyle, Jack Kelly, Aidan May, Tony May, John Cooney, Robert Lyne, Jack Rogers. Ashwood FC: Aaron Clarke, Ken Ramsey, Ian Flemming, Stephen Bermingham, Paul Crowe, Andrew Flemming, Stephen Conway, Nathan Killeen, Paul Tumulty, David Archbold, Alan Caul, Jonathan Mullane, Ian Murphy, Ger Dunne.
Keeler out-boxed by Andrade
Luke Keeler Picture: Ricardo Guglieminotti
BALLYFERMOT man Luke Keeler found reigning WBO champion Demetrius Andrade too hot to handle in their world middleweight title clash in Miami last week. Keeler survived two early knockdowns to bravely battle into the ninth round before the American eventually made his mark to close out the contest. Keeler said afterwards: “It wasn’t my night. I gave it my best shot and it wasn’t enough. Fair play to Demetrius – he’s a great champion. “It’s been a great experience. If I didn’t
think I could improve, I would retire but I’m getting better with each camp under my friend and coach Pete Taylor so I’ll go again. “I’m a determined f***** and I will get back up there. Thanks to everyone for the kind messages and support. It’s been heartwarming. Huge thanks to my family and everyone who travelled over – I’ll be forever grateful. “I’d like to thank my team for looking after me these past few days and also DAZN, Eddie Hearn and MTK Global for giving me this amazing experience of a first world title shot.
6 February 2020 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 33
SIDE CLUB ADVANCE Ashwood FC’s Ian Flemming and Rialto FC’s Anto Fermoyle get in a tangle; inset - Rialto’s squad
SOCCER: RISING STAR KEEN TO PLAY BIG ROLE IN EURO JOURNEY
Kirk targets regular Bohs first team place LEAGUE OF IRELAND
Paddy Kirk at the launch of the National College of Ireland’s partnership with Bohemians. Picture: Harry Murphy/Sportsfile
DAVE DONNELLY
sport@dublingazette.com
FLYING START
Shelbourne’s new year takes flight
IRISH gym chain FLYEfit has been announced as the new headline and front of jersey sponsor of Shelbourne Football Club. The news comes as Shelbourne FC prepares to celebrate its 125th year and to make its return to the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division and as FLYEfit gets ready to open its sixteenth SuperGym at the Jervis Shopping Centre in Dublin this February. The club’s Ciaran Kilduff and Daniel O’Reilly were pictured at the launch. Picture: Terry McDonagh
BOHEMIANS full-back Paddy Kirk has targeted a regular place in the first team as they embark upon their first season with European football in eight years. The Gypsies surprised many by competing at the top end of the table throughout before securing a Europa League spot with a game to spare at the end of last season. There were scenes of mass jubiliation at the final whistle as Keith Long’s side got the point they needed at Richmond Park to seal a top-four finish. Watching from the pitch was 21-year-old Kirk who played 90 minutes at left-back as the Phibsboro club held on for a scoreless draw despite losing James Finnerty to a second-half red card. “It’s exciting times,” Kirk tells Dublin Gazette. “Obviously it’s been a while since [European football] has been here, and you can see how much it meant to the fans. “Even at the end of the season when we qualified against Pat’s in Inchicore, I hadn’t seen anything like it. “It’s massive for the club – a lot of fans have stuck by the club when it hasn’t been going well and they deserve it more than anyone.” Kirk, who made 15 appearances all in all last year, has had to patient with the form of Republic of Ireland Under-21 international Darragh Leahy marking him out as one of the league’s best left-fulls. Leahy’s two seasons at Dalymount Park earned him a move to league champions Dundalk in the winter and Kirk is intent upon seizing his chance to make the shirt his own. He took a route unlike many of his peers to the first team as, while the likes of Danny Mandroiu and Leahy starred in the DDSL with St Kevin’s Boys before going to England, he stayed closer to home.
Kirk his local side Raheny United before Bohs’ hook-up with the NDSL saw him earn a spot with the Under-19s at the age of 16. He recently graduated with a degree in communication. He spoke as part of the club’s scholarship link-up with the National College of Ireland, as he looks to give football his full focus for the year. “We’ve progressed a lot over the last few years and this year, being in Europe, is the year we should all be looking to push on. “I think that’s good for the team, it’s healthy, but I’ve been here a few years and it’s time now
for me to push on and secure a position.” That type of graft is something that has defined Long and Trevor Croly’s teams, and the pressure they put on themselves to succeed, he hopes, will bode well for 2020. “Obviously we put a lot of pressure on ourselves in terms of every week, how we perform and how we train. “That puts us in a position where we know we’ve done enough as we possibly can. “That eliminates any pressure we can possibly have, and that’ll be big for us this season.”
Railway Union do the indoor double NATIONAL INDOOR HOCKEY STEPHEN FINDLATER
sport@dublingazette.com
RAILWAY Union did the National Indoor Trophy double as their men and women both prevailed in Galway’s Kingfisher Hall, earning a place in Europe for 2021. They occurred in contrasting fashions with the women always in control against Muckross with the experienced campaigners Hannah de Burgh Whyte and Emma Smith striking in the second half for a 2-0 win.
The men, however, was a different matter as they trailed 3-0 inside the first 12 minutes before Bjorn Daase produced a remarkable performance against Three Rock Rovers. He gave the Sandymount side a lifeline when he got one back before half-time with an individual run and finish. And the German – a guest player who lines out for Pembroke outdoors – won a stroke which he then scored in the 23rd minute. He missed another stroke but was on hand to turn in the equal-
iser with 45 seconds to go. In the shoot-out, he was only player to score while goalkeeper Stephen
O’Keeffe kept all of Three Rock’s efforts. It ends Rovers’ three-year reign as national champions.
Railway Union’s men and women’s National indoor champions
34 DUBLIN GAZETTE CITY 6 February 2020
FOOTBALL: UNDER-20 CHAMPIONSHIP
BASKETBALL: CAFFREY CO-OPTED TO KEY ROLE
Basketball’s big push for higher recognition STEPHEN FINDLATER
sfindlater@dublingazette.com
Brian O’Leary at the launch of the 2020 EirGrid Under-20 All-Ireland Championship on Tuesday. Picture: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
O’Leary hoping for explosive start to Leinster campaign UNDER-20 LEINSTER FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP STEPHEN FINDLATER
sport@dublingazette.com
NA FIANNA’S Brian O’Leary is looking forward to taking a first step toward potentially making amends for last year’s EirGrid Under-20 All-Ireland final loss to Cork. As part of a free-scoring full-forward line, O’Leary was an explosive presence – perhaps forged by his triple-jump training in his youth – in the sky blue side that swept through Leinster and on to the final stage where they built a nine-point lead. But, despite O’Leary’s 0-3, the Rebels produced an outstanding comeback to win out 3-16 to 1-14 in the end. “Delighted to get another chance at it,” is O’Leary’s assessment as he relishes the chalelenge of bouncing back when speaking to Dublin Gazette this week. “Last year we came up short in the final; we’ve talked about it a lot and what we left behind us. It has definitely given us the incentive to work harder and go that last step. “We do tend to have Cork at the back of our mind but we want to keep it going game by game like we did last year.” The journey this year is a rapid-fire one with the provincial and All-Ireland series set to be done and dusted by the end of March. It starts on Saturday against Wicklow in Aughrim with the winner going on to play Longford a week later. It comes hot on the heels of a development league campaign which manager Tom Gray used to shuffle his deck. O’Leary missed most of those games with a slight hamstring injury but his ability to dovetail with the prolific Ciaran Archer means he has an understanding of what it takes to slot straight back in. “I know his strengths and obviously he scored a lot last year! Some of the scores he put up were outrageous; me and him have trained and played together a lot now and we know what runs to make when either of us are on the ball. We just look to benefit each other in the best way for the team.” He has previous experience of facing the Garden County at Under-17 level, enough to know they will be “definitely up for it”. “We have somewhat of an idea about how they will line out which we will go over in the next couple of days and really zone in on them. “It will be a tough campaign because it is a very short turnaround this year. It is just a case of getting the body right first but you get used to it over the years, playing a lot of games in quick succession.”
WHEN Basketball Ireland put its head above the parapet on Tuesday to voice its disquiet over the bailout handed to the FAI, it gave the sport a rare public stage to highlight its phoenix-like rise from ashes. In the depths of the financial crisis, the governing body went into debt of €1.5 million. To cut its cloth, international teams were cut overnight, staff numbers were cut by more than half registration fees increased as the sport and its practitioners were charged to get them out of the hole. Under the stewardship of Bernard O’Byrne, the debt was cleared and, recently, partially selffunded international teams have returned to action with the Under-20s qualifying for 2020’s toptier Euro Championships J a n u a r y ’s v i b r a n t National Cup series add to the feeling of a sport on the up; having the third largest participation level for kids with an enviable gender balance backs that up. And Siobhan Caffrey – who was inducted into the Hall of Fame last year – says it is part of bigger plans to come having recently been co-opted to join Basketball Ireland’s Strategic Plan Implementation Group. Originally from the sport’s hot bed in Killester,
Siobhan Caffrey receiving her Hall of Fame award from Basketball Ireland President Theresa Walsh and board chairperson Fran Ryan. Picture: Piaras O Midheach/Sportsfile
she moved to Meteors around her Leaving Cert following a house move and it was there she had her glory days under the West Coast Coolers banner. The former Irish captain won five national titles, including a four in-a-row between 1982 and 1985. From that background, she has a lifetime of knowledge and passion for the sport which she brings to the strategic group’s table. “It’s a ten-year programme now, leading up to 2030, to bring basketball up to the stage where you have rugby, the Gaelic and those centre-stage sports, making it on the same level,” she told Dublin Gazette. “This is the major pro-
Siobhan Caffrey in Meteors action
gramme of Basketball Ireland, looking at six different pillars of the sport with my pillar looking at primary and secondary schools, clubs and universities to co-ordinate with volunteers.” A teacher of 20-years, she recently completed a masters in conflict resolution at Maynooth University in addition to her credentials in the sport. She is also coaching with her daughter in Meteors while her two sons have high level sporting experience, playing AIL rugby with St Mary’s, giving her a range of key experiences for the role. Plans include setting up four centres of excellence around the island, boosting further the standard of coaching on offer. Caffrey says that while her era is regarded as one of the finest of all time, she believes the level of skills training on offer nowadays shows the increase in level is well under way. “The teams seem to be stronger. I watched the cup games for the last few years and the talent, the strength and everything underlying it is so much higher. With Meteors, we were lucky to have a team
where we were coached so well and each player had the skills. Some other teams didn’t have that. “Now, the coaching and the skill level is across the board; each player can do a wider range of things, some phenomenal stuff. We felt our era, the 80s, was the time but now I see there are other clubs reaching new standards.” And she believes that while it is ambitious to try and turn the “big three” in Irish sport into a quartet, it is “attainable”. “If you don’t dream it, you can’t achieve or attain it. You see what the hockey girls did and it is about showcasing your sport. It is about getting out there. “Ireland is absolutely made for basketball; you couldn’t pick another sport better suited. I would like to get it out there that basketball is an underlier for every other sport. “There’s a huge passion there and a drive [on the strategic group’s committee], some of whose parents were the people who had the vision to see the arena in Tallaght built. “With them on board, I can see it will move at least 20 paces forward from where it is at the moment.”
6 February 2020 CITY DUBLIN GAZETTE 35
FOOTBALL: DCU OVERPOWER CARLOW IN SIGERSON CUP FINAL DCU get the party started on their Sigerson Cup celebrations
Mun men crucial in Sigerson success SIGERSON CUP FINAL D.C.U. Dochas Éireann I.T. Carlow CÓILÍN DUFFY cduffy@dublingazette.com
0-14 0-7
BALLYMUN KICKHAMS men were certainly to the fore as DCU secured their fifth Electric Ireland Sigerson Cup title, thanks to a home final win over IT Carlow in Glasnevin. Goalkeeper Evan Comerford and forward Paddy Small both played key roles in the victory, with the squad managed by fellow clubman Paddy Christie, with Davey Byrne, Kevin Leahy and Mun GAA officer Gerry Seaver also involved in the backroom team. Comerford scored three long-range points with Small accounting for two excellent points from play. Dublin were well represented, with Raheny’s Seán McMahon; Clontarf’s
Declan Monaghan, and St Oliver Plunkett’s Eoghan Ruadh clubman Sean Bugler, along with Naomh Mearnóg’s Shane Carthy on the starting line-up. Parnell’s clubman Dean McDermott, Erins Isle’s Neil Matthews and Naomh Barróg’s Paul Tolan were also among the squad. IT Carlow also involved Garbhan Gallagher from St Pat’s Palmerston, and Plunkett’s Mark Daly in their panel. It was a busy week for Comerford, who also manned the goals for Dublin Senior Footballers the following Saturday in their Allianz League away win over Mayo. “I suppose it was probably the one medal with a time-limit that we hadn’t got over the last few years,” Comerford told Dublin Gazette after the Sigerson win. “We probably under performed, especially with Paddy involved in the
last few years. It was great to get over the line today.” DCU had big wins over both Queens University Belfast and UCD in their previous games, with the 0-14 to 0-7 win over IT Carlow the closest game of the lot.
Preparation “When we went a man down due to the black card [after 22 minutes], it was a testiment to IT Carlow, as they must have prepared very well,” he said. “They had a great set-up at our kick-outs. They did put us under a bit of pressure, but thankfully the lads rallied at half-time and we got a good second half performance.” As well as being a shot-stopper, Comerford also got on the scoresheet, landing three long-range frees. “Whether it was myself Mícheál Bannigan or David Garland taking the frees, especially when IT Car-
low played a defensive set-up, it was important that we were able to convert on those free-kick’s,” he said. “Thankfully it just helped us get over the line.” Amist the celebrations, there was one man who shyed away from the limelight, and headed to the dressing room, long before the Cup presentation had taken place. It was time for Paddy Small to have a quiet moment to reflect, just less than two months after his father Declan had passed away. “With the injuries Paddy had over the last year or two, it’s great to see him playing so well,” Comerford said. “You seen how he took that second half by the horns, and I suppose he really just put in a Man of the Match performance. “His contribution was significant to us getting over the line tonight,” Comerford added.
FOOTBALL
Rowe on form as Dublin ease by Mayo MICK Bohan’s Dublin ladies football side were rarely in trouble as they claimed their first win of the competition with eight Carla Rowe points key to a 0-12 to 0-7 victory over Mayo last Saturday evening. Played as part of a double header with the men’s teams, Dublin fielded a mix of experienced and younger players and the blend was enough to guide the sky blues to the win. “I’m very pleased with the win. It’s always a balancing act, trying to develop players while also doing the jersey proud and playing the game on its merits,” said Bohan. “Our backs did very well – at the other end we created a few goal chances and didn’t take them, so we need to improve there. The effort from every one of our girls cannot be faulted.” It was a victory acquired through hard work rather than flair. The home side were moving well in many sectors in the first half but made little impact in attack thanks mainly to the performance of Dublin full-back Muireann Ní Scanaill as Dublin built a 0-6 to 0-3 lead at the break. Rowe was kicking points for fun throughout and finished with eight points while Kate Sullivan and Hannah O’Neill landed classy scores in the seond half to make sure the Connacht side were never able to get any momentum rolling.
GazetteSPORT FEBRUARY 6-12, 2020
ALL OF YOUR DUBLIN CITY SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 31-35
AMBITIOUS HOOP DREAMS BASKETBALL:
Hall of Famer Siobhan Caffrey on the sport’s ambitious plans to turn the big three into a quartet in 10 years. SEE P34
RIALTO RISE SOCCER:
UCFL Challenge cup win over Ashwood paves the way for Rialto to last eight SEE P32
O’LEARY LEADS UP GARDEN PATH FOOTBALL:
Na Fianna man cannot wait for the rapidfire Under-20 championship campaign to begin against Wicklow. SEE P34
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Kevin’s strike five extra time goals in FAI Inter FAI INTERMEDIATE CUP Verona St Kevin’s Boys after extra time DAVE DONNELLY sport@dublingazette.com
2 7
ST KEVIN’S Boys manager Stephen Costello hailed the impact of supersub Yuki Saito as he netted twice in extra time to set the Saints on their way to the FAI Intermediate Cup quarter-finals. Luke Ingram scored a hat-trick, while strikers Stephen Cantwell and Jordan Farry were also on target as the Saints cut loose with five extra-time goals to seal the win. The ir celeb ra tions looked unlikely as normal time drew to a close with Verona 2-1 up, thanks to goals from Christy Clarke and Ben Bosze either side of Cantwell’s penalty. As they did in the first game at Coolmine Park, which finished 2-2, Kevin’s showed character to battle back and secure a late equaliser through man-of-the-match Ingram. The win sets up a quarter-final meeting with Senior Sunday leaders St Mochta’s, a side three divisions above the Whitehall side but who will hold no fear given recent results. “Yuki is over on a student exchange type of thing and we were waiting for his international clearance so he couldn’t actually play until the transfer window opened,” Cantwell told the Dublin Gazette. “He played with the
The St Kevin’s Boys intermediate side that are now through to the quarter-final of the New Balance FAI Intermediate Cup where they will host St Mochta’s. Picture: Neil Fox
Saturday team the week before and impressed, and you can tell the bit of quality he has. Hopefully it’ll hold him in good stead for the next couple of months while he’s here. “The lads showed good character to come from behind twice. Getting two last minute goals between the two games, you’d have to be pleased with that. “They were two good goals, by the way, well-
worked goals, especially the one on Friday night. You could have forgiven in the last couple of minutes of the game going more direct but, credit to the lads, they stuck to the gameplan, kept doing the right things and got their just rewards.” Kevin’s predictably dominated possession and made most of the early running against a well-organised Verona side content to play on
the break. Cantwell was twice denied early on with incisive breaks off the wing, seeing one shot blocked and another excellently saved by the outstanding Stephen Daly. It was Verona who took the lead moments before the break following a swift counter-attack that finished with Clarke burying a shot from inside the box. The Saints were level
within a minute, however, as they were awarded a penalty and Cantwell made no mistake from the spot. Chances were at a premium in the second half as the wind became more of a factor, but it was Verona who hit the front once more through a wellworked Bosze goal. Once again, the Saints continued to plug away and they got the goal they deserved as Ingram got
on the end of a slick passing move to bundle home. Two goals in four minutes, and two fine finishes, from exchange student Saito turned the tie on its head in injury time moments after Eoin Clarke had headed over the bar. Ingram added a fifth before the break and completed his hat-trick shortly after, before Farry finished off another fine move to make it 7-2.