Dublin Gazette: City Edition

DublinGazette JANUARY 3-9, 2019

YEARINREVIEW: The highs, the lows, and everything in between – we look back on some of the top stories from 2018 FROM PAGE 4

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THE LATEST NEWS & SPORT FROM THE DUBLIN CITY COUNCIL AREA Picture: Alison O’Hanlon

Happy New Year!

SPORT

THE YEAR IN REVIEW: We look back on an incredible year on the local, national and international stage for Dublin’s sport stars SEE P27-31

travel

EXPLORE SOME NEW HORIZONS IN THIS NEW YEAR SEE P18

FIREWORKS WOW The year started with quite a bang in the city centre – and whatever 2019 holds in store, you’ll find it all covered right here in your very own Dublin Gazette! So keep reading, and Happy New Year to everyone!

Focus on late ‘Lil Red’ helps to save girl’s life RACHEL D’ARCY

Find us on Keep reading, keep recycling – thank you

The late Sean Hughes (15), AKA ‘Lil Red’

THE parents of Finglas native Sean ‘Lil Red’ Hughes have said that a mother told them they saved her daughter’s life, after they raised awareness of sepsis symptoms.

Sean passed away on January 12 last, with a post-mortem showing that the 15-year-old died as a

result of sepsis.

Now, his parents Joe and Karen, and his sister Zoe, have started a campaign online to raise awareness of the killer illness.

His parents said that Sean had been struggling with flu-like symptoms for weeks before his death – something they now know were symptoms of the disease that

can kill a healthy person within 12 hours.

Sean’s mum posted on Facebook that a woman had thanked the family for saving their daughter’s life with their social media posts informing her of the symptoms.

She wrote: “To say we are proud of Sean is an understatement - he’s still helping people.”

Crime GARDAI are appealing for witnesses and information after two pizzeria workers were shot in Raheny. Their injuries are not believed to be life-threatening. Locals reacted with shock and anger to the shooting in the first hour of New SEE PAGE 2 Year’s Day.

Keenly awaited TU Dublin launched

EDUCATIONAL bodies were celebrating a first for the capital – and the country – this week as Dublin saw Ireland’s first technological university formally established.

The keenly awaited move sees Dublin Institute of Technology, Institute of Technology Blanchardstown and Institute of Technology Tallaght unite as Technological University Dublin (to be known as TU Dublin).

TU Dublin is now the largest higher education institution in Ireland, with more than 3,000 staff and 28,000 students across a number of campuses, as well as having a ‘virtual’ campus.

SEE PAGE 3

2 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 3 January 2019

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CRIME : GARDAI APPEAL FOR WITNESSES TO NEW YEAR’S DAY INCIDENT

Shock as two pizzeria workers shot in Raheny  RACHEL D’ARCY

rdarcy@dublingazette.com

TWO pizzeria workers were shot in an early morning raid on New Year’s Day in Raheny, with a man remaining in Garda custody over the attack.

The incident occurred just a short time into the new year at a pizza shop in the Edenmore Shopping Centre in the northside suburb.

Gardai have said the incident took place at approximately 00:22am on January 1, with two

staff members injured.

Two men entered the premises, believed to be Mizzoni’s Pizza in the shopping centre.

One man was armed with what Gardai have described as a handgun, threatening the workers before demanding cash and then discharging a number of shots, injuring the members of staff.

No cash was taken in the incident.

The two members of staff, aged 38 and 28, were removed to Beaumont Hospital following the armed robbery, but the injuries sustained are not believed to be lifethreatening.

The two men have been named locally as Vasile

Gardai carried out a forensic investigation of the crime scene

Batica, a cook in the pizzeria, and Ionut ‘Johnnie’ Dateu, who is the manager of the establishment.

It is believed that Batica suffered a stom-

ach injury, whilst Dateu was injured in the chest.

It is also believed that the shooter is known to An Garda Siochana and locals.

The scene was closed off on Tuesday as a forensic examination of the scene was carried out.

Following the incident, Gardai arrested two men – aged 44 and 16 – in relation to the investigation.

The pair were held under Section 30 of the Offences Against the State Act, 1939.

The 16-year-old was released from custody on late Tuesday evening, with a file now being prepared for the Director of Public Prosecutions.

The second man remains in custody in Coolock Garda Station.

Locals have reacted with shock to the incident on social media, with a number of Raheny residents saying they were “horrified” to hear what happened to the workers.

“The two lads were just trying to work and earn a few quid, and [the attackers] come in and shoot.

F*****g scumbags,” said Paula Kavanagh.

Gardai are asking for any witnesses or anyone with further information to contact the incident room at Coolock Garda Station at 01 666 4200, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any local Garda Station.

Dublin Gazette contacted Mizzoni’s Pizza for comment but had not received a reply by the time of going to press.

FASTNews

New €2 coin to mark the first Dail’s meeting THE first meeting of Dail Eireann in 1919 is set to be commemorated with a new €2 coin, to be launched into circulation this year.

One million of the new coins will enter circulation, with the Central Bank also issuing a new €100 gold coin to commemorate the centenary.

There will be 1,000 of these coins issued, available from January 16 when the new coins are launched at the Mansion House.

The new coin will feature the words An Chead Dail (The First Dail), surrounded by depictions of the first TDs who attended the first meeting.

This is the second time that Central Bank have issued a special euro coin, following the issuing of 4.5 million special €2 coins in 1916 to commemorate The Rising.

Gardai appeal for witnesses to assault GARDAI are continuing to appeal for witnesses to a serious assault in Lucan that occurred on Friday, December 28.

Kean Doherty from Cherry Orchard in Ballyfermot was found in Ballyowen Lane with serious head injuries and rushed to Beaumont Hospital, where he remains in a critical condition.

An Incident Room has been established at Lucan Garda Station to investigate the assault on the 20-yearold.

A Garda spokesperson said: “We wish to appeal for witnesses or anyone with any information to contact us at Lucan Garda Station, 01 666 7300, the Garda Confidential Line at 1800 666 111, or any Garda station.”

3 January 2019 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 3

FAMILIES

EDUCATION: MOVE A FIRST FOR IRELAND

First babies were three little girls

First technological university formally established in city RACHEL D’ARCY

EARLIER this week, Ireland’s first technological university was formally established by law in Dublin.

Technological University Dublin – to be known as TU Dublin – comprises Dublin Institute of Technology, Institute of Technology Blanchardstown and Institute of Technology Tallaght, and became a formally recognised institution on January 1.

TU Dublin is now the largest higher education institution in Ireland, with more than 3,000 staff and 28,000 students across a number of campuses following the formal combination of the three Institutes of Technology.

The new university will be a ‘multi-campus’ university, with campuses remaining in Blanchardstown and Tallaght as well as in Grangegorman, in addition to a ‘virtual’ campus.

Students currently studing at DIT, ITB or ITT will become the first graduates from a technological university in the state, with the first awards expected to be given this year.

The passing of the legislation in March came years after the bill was initially proposed. The Technological Universities Bill was originally put forward in 2015.

In 2018, legislation was passed to pave the way for the three educational institutions to assimilate as Ire-

land’s first technological university, with another three similar institutions expected to be established in other parts of the country.

Last month, Minister for Education and Skills Joe McHugh, and Minister for Higher Education, Mary Mitchell O’Connor, announced that Professor David FitzPatrick is to be the first president of the new institution.

Minister McHugh and Minister Mitchell O’Connor have also announced the members of the first governing body of the institution, to be chaired by Professor Tom Collins.

The members of the board comprise Dr Caitriona Fisher, Imelda Reynolds, and Paddy Lavelle.

RACHEL D’ARCY

Leinster players help tackle Christmas cheer at hospital

LEINSTER players brought the Champions and Pro14 cups on a special visit to the children in Our Lady’s Children’s Hospital, Crumlin (OLCHC), bringing some extra-special Christmas cheer to the wards’ young sports fans. Little Ruby Flynn and staff nurse Jenny Murphy were among some of the delighted fans to meet the Leinster players, with their visit helping to lift spirits at the busy hospital. Some 11,000 children were expected to have visited OLCHC during December. Picture: Mark Stedman

THE Coombe maternity hospital in the capital narrowly missed out on having the honour of delivering 2019’s first baby – by just one second.

Little Amelia O’Brien from Clondalkin was born at four seconds past midnight in the hospital to parents Leanne Farrell and Alan O’Brien.

She missed out on being the first baby born in the country to little Meave, who was born in Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Louth at three seconds past midnight.

At the National Maternity Hospital in Holles Street, a baby girl was born at 27 seconds past midnight to Natasha Philpott from Newtownmountkennedy, making the first three babies born in 2019 female.

4 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 3 January 2019

YEAR IN REVIEW

A LOOK BACK AT SOME OF 2018’S TOP STORIES IN

Remembering 2018 – when a ‘Beast from the East’ bit, abortion block was struck down, and the housing crisis grew even worse by the day ...

January HOMELESS FAMILIES AT GRESHAM IN FOCUS

A MOTION was passed by Dublin City Council that called on the council to take steps to rehouse the 14 homeless families who were staying at the Gresham Hotel, as the housing crisis began to approach breaking point.

News emerged earlier this year that the Gresham – which is owned by Spanish hotel giant Riu – wouldn’t be accepting payments from the council to house the homeless families from the end of January.

At the time, Cllr John Lyons (PBP) said: “We need significant State investment in public and affordable housing, with all council and other Stateowned land utilised to this end.”

SHOCK AS ‘LIL’ RED’ TEEN RAPPER PASSES AWAY

A SHOCKED community paid tribute and a sad farewell to 15-year-old Finglas native Sean Hughes, who passed away after being admitted to Temple Street Children’s Hospital with a severe cough and flu-like symptoms.

Sean, a rapper known locally as ‘Lil’ Red’, passed away on January 12 at the hospital after suffering with illness for less than a week.

Sean was buried in Glasnevin Cemetery following

a Funeral Mass at St Canice’s Church, Finglas.

LAST CURTAIN TO FALL AT THE TIVOLI THEATRE

IT WAS announced that the Tivoli Theatre on Francis Street would be demolished to make way for a new aparthotel development, tentatively named Tivoli Square.

The planned scheme is set to include restaurant units, a gym, a shop and a cultural arts venue which will replace the Tivoli, alongside a 260-bedroom aparthotel.

In late 2018, club night District 8 announced that its last weekend in the Tivoli will be upcoming January 25-26, before demolition of the venue gets under way later this month.

February CHER-LY A SURPRISE IRISH COMMENTATOR

LEGENDARY pop icon C h e r fo u n d h e rs e l f involved in Irish politics after tweeting her support for a ban on oil drilling off the Irish coast.

The Believe songstress responded to a tweet from Green Party member and Dail researcher Sinead Mercier, asking for support of the Climate Emergency Bill that would see Ireland the fourth country in the world to ban oil and gas drilling.

C h e r ’s r e s p o n s e ? “#HELLTOTHEYES”!

FIGHT FOR MOORE ST’S SOUL CONTINUES

CAMPAIGNERS called for dialogue in an attempt to preserve the historic elements of Moore Street, following a ruling that the area cannot be classed as a historic monument.

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

Former Lord Mayor of Dublin, Micheal Mac Donncha, had campaigned for the preservation of the site and was in court for the appeal ruling, telling Dublin Gazette that the verdict was “disappointing”.

CHARITY TATTOOS HELP SUPPORT HEART MONTH

A UNIQUE event was held in Crazy Cats Tattoo to acknowledge congenital heart defect awareness month.

Organised by Rhona Cu l l i n a n , d o z e n s o f relatives and friends of those living with a congenital heart defect (CHD) visited Crazy Cats Tattoo in Ballyfermot to get inked in honour of loved ones.

Rhona, whose daughter Molly has a heart defect and Down syndrome (DS), organised the event after being inspired by other individuals who had gotten tattoos to repre-

sent their DS friends and family.

The entire event raised more than €1,000 for Heart Children Ireland.

MAY: A temporary city centre mural dedicated to Savita Halappanavar became one of the year’s most photographed images on Irish social media (as well as being shown all around the world) as Ireland grappled with Repealing the Eighth Amendment

INJECTION CENTRE SET FOR MERCHANT’S QUAY

IT WAS announced that the HSE awarded the contract to run Ireland’s first supervised drug injection centre to voluntary organisation, Merchants Quay Ireland.

The centre is to be located at the Riverbank Centre near Christ Church, and would cater to approximately 60 individuals daily.

It was revealed in November that there were 99 objections lodged to the centre, including from The Temple Bar pub, The Clarence Hotel and local primary school, St Audoen’s NS.

APRIL: Poor little Lizzie was a cat-napped kitten taken

MARCH: The

from a Cat Cafe in Smithfield

grip, with ice

SUFFRAGETTE PLAQUE UNVEILED AT CASTLE

A PLAQUE was erected at Dublin Castle to commemorate Suffragette Hanna Sheehy Skeffington and to celebrate her role in securing Irish women’s right to vote.

The plaque was unveiled at the Ship Street entrance to Dublin Castle by her granddaughter, Micheline.

Sheehy Skeffington smashed windows at Dublin Castle in 1912 in response to women being excluded from the Home Rule Bill vote.

FEBRUARY: Both members of Team James share the feeling as they complete the

MARCH: President Michael D Higgins and his

34th annual Raheny Road Race

Dubs welcome actor Mark Hamill to town for

WALTONS FORCED TO CLOSE IN CITY CENTRE

ICONIC music store Waltons closed its George’s Street branch, relocating the business to their Blanchardstown outlet.

Managing director Niall Walton detailed that rising rent costs within the city made it increasingly difficult for the store to operate at George’s Street.

He said: “With the ever-

rising costs of doing business in the city centre we need to make sure that our cost base does not make us uncompetitive.”

March KIND BOY RAISES €5OO TO HELP THE HOMELESS

AN EIGHT-year-old boy who was disappointed by answers from politicians to his questions about

homeless people helped to raise money for The Peter McVerry Trust.

Fionn Faherty had written to An Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Housing Minister Eoghan Murphy and President Michael D Higgins as part of a school project on homelessness.

He suggested that his football club, Parkvale FC, host a football night and bake sale.

3 January 2019 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 5

YEAR IN REVIEW

THE DUBLIN CITY AREA BARMY ‘CONVERSION THERAPY’ TO BE BANNED

SENATOR Fintan Warfield (SF) introduced a bill to the Dail calling for the criminalisation of socalled ‘conversion therapy’ in Ireland.

‘Conversion therapy’ is defined as the practice of trying to change an individual’s sexual orientation or gender identity by using psychological or spiritual interventions.

In May, the bill against the widely discredited practice passed its second reading in the Seanad.

KEY TECHNOLOGICAL UNI BILL IS PASSED APRIL: Lucan McHenry Behal and a furry cute friend helped to announce the start of lambing season, with city children visiting urban and rural farms in the county Picture: Aerial.ie

THE Technological Universities Act 2018 was passed by the Oireachtas, in a move welcomed by the Technological University Alliance for Dublin.

Minister for Higher Education, Mary Mitchell O’Connor, passed the act, with President Michael D Higgins signing it into law.

The first Technological University, TU Dublin, will open its doors this month.

RARE GIRAFFE BORN AT DUBLIN ZOO

‘Beast from the East’ held the city and country tight in its and snow – lots and lots of snow – coating the capital

FEBRUARY: Talented young Irish actor Barry wife, Sabina helped delighted

Keoghan was awarded an

the St Patrick’s Day Parade

IFTA. Picture: Michael Chester

Parents, coaches and club members were all supportive of Fionn’s efforts, with more than €500 raised for The Peter McVerry Trust.

MASS REDEVELOPMENT PROPOSED FOR FLATS

DUBLIN City Council published a report proposing a redevelopment of 100 of the city’s flat complexes, said to be the largest rede-

velopment in State history.

At present, there are almost 6,400 apartments across 109 complexes owned by Dublin City Council that are more than 40 years old.

Currently, plans are still being worked out for when the work might begin, but keep an eye on Dublin Gazette for more when it happens!

DUBLIN Zoo’s giraffe herd welcomed a bonny baby boy in February, and unveiled him to the world in March.

Born at the zoo, the h e a l t hy Ro t h s c h i l d giraffe’s arrival gave the zoo another reason to celebrate – Rothschilds are one of the most threatened of the nine sub-species of giraffe, with fewer than 670 remaining in the wild.

UNA O’HAGAN SIGNS OFF AFTER 34 YEARS ON AIR

AFTER 34 years on air, Una O’Hagan presented her final broadcast on Six One News.

The journalist made the announcement that she intended to leave RTE in early 2018, saying that her plans “just [felt] right”.

Speaking to Dublin Gazette following her departure, O’Hagan said: “I had mixed feelings, sadness at leaving behind some great people, especially the teams I worked with and the people in make-up who were always

great fun.

“But time waits for no man – or woman – and the moment had come to move on.”

April YOUNG BALLYUN GIRL PRICKED BY SYRINGE

A YOUNG girl was pricked by a used, dumped syringe outside Ballymun Shopping Centre, marking a pivotal point for the growing drug epidemic in the northside suburb.

She was playing with a friend when the needle pricked her through her shoe, resulting in her attending Temple Street Hospital with her shocked mum.

Many other parents in Ballymun echoed the cause for concern, saying their own children had stumbled across syringes.

Cllr Paul McAuliffe (FF) told Dublin Gazette at the time that there has been a “significant increase” in the level of drug dealing in Ballymun.

He said: “I can’t describe how angry people in Ballymun are about the recent upsurge in drug dealing.”

CITY CHAOS AS BMW SMASHES DOWN QUAYS

A BMW travelling down the quays caused a major incident as a number of cars were damaged and people injured.

The driver was a man in his 20s, who Gardai believed may have been suffering from extreme stress.

The story made headlines across the country and on social media, with traffic backed up city-wide as a result of the early morning incident.

MICROWAVE HELPS TO COOK UP DONATIONS

A FORMER student from DIT took off hitchhiking across Ireland, with nothing more than the clothes on his back, a bag and a microwave to raise money for Jigsaw.

Diarmuid McCleary was hitchhiking across Ireland – microwave in tow – to raise money for mental health.

Top stories of 2018

Ireland makes global headlines as electorate okays limited abortion HEADLINES were made all around the world in May when the Irish people voted on permitting limited abortion, with an overwhelming ‘Yes’ vote from the electorate following a bitterly divisive campaign.

Despite a degree of uncertainty over the outcome, the Yes vote soon came in at two-to-one across the country, echoing similar voting patterns across much of the rest of the country.

Nationally, some 66.4% voted on repealing the Eighth Amendment to the Constitution, with a high turnout of 64.1% of the electorate.

Dubliners bucked the national trend by voting Yes by three-to-one, at 75.5%; Donegal also bucked the national trend by being the sole constituency to vote No. The referendum marked arguably the fall of the last major societal division in Ireland, with enormous interest from international media and observers not-

Since then, McCleary trekked across Scotland with the microwave to raise money for sick Dublin girl Robyn Smyth in September, and has spoken about his fundraising experiences at Zeminar in the RDS. ST ANNE’S PARK HOMES SAGA TAKES NEW TWIST

THE St Anne’s Park saga came to a head as planning permission was granted for the controversial residential project, despite heavy opposition.

Permission was granted for more than 400 apartments and 100 houses on a number of playing pitches adjacent to the park.

The An Bord Pleanala decision was overturned in September, but the story still continues as the company behind

A large crowd gathered at Dublin Castle to celebrate and mark the ‘Yes’ outcome of the Repeal referendum

ing the Republic’s further steps away from its Catholic, constrained past – a move that was lauded and mourned in equal measures at home and abroad.

Speaking at Dublin Castle, Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou McDonald summed up the mood of the country on both sides of the debate when she said: “This is a momentous day for all the people of Ireland. Ireland is changing. The old certainties [are] being challenged.”

the development, Crekav, sought and were granted leave to take a judicial review of the refusal in November.

May UNIVERSAL ANGER AT ABORTION PROTEST

THERE was outrage on social media following a protest held by an antiabortion group outside three of the capital’s maternity hospitals, just weeks before the 8th Amendment referendum.

The protest, organised

by The Irish Centre for BioEthical Reform, involved individuals holding banners with graphic images of foetuses outside the Rotunda, the Coombe and Holles Street National Maternity Hospital.

The

protest was condemned by both the Together for Yes and the Save The 8th campaigns.

CITY’S CLUB LIFE FACING MASS EXTINCTION

IN MAY, we took a look at the loss of vibrancy in Dublin’s nightlife scene with the closure of some of the city’s biggest clubs.

Popular club Hangar was demolished some months ago, and District 8 in the Tivoli will close in January, leaving a depleted stock of nightlife in Dublin.

Producer Tommy Holohan took to Twitter at the time, saying people need to “speak up” about the closure of the clubs.

He said: “I’m not saying we need to go set up decks and have a rave, I just mean as in [we] need to speak up about what’s happening.

“Everyone’s just pretending like Hangar and District 8 aren’t closing and Dublin’s not turning into one big f***off hotel,” Holohan said.

Continued overleaf on Page 6

6 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 3 January 2019

YEAR IN REVIEW Continued from Page 5 IDIOTIC JOYRIDERS GO VIRAL WITH ANTICS

A VIDEO of erratic drivers blazing through a housing estate in Finglas went viral, with the footage getting thousands of views online.

The two-minute video showed several cars engaging in real-life ‘bumper cars’, with the cars speeding through a residential area, repeatedly crashing into walls and each other in Finglas’ Berryfield estate.

It is believed that the pair were driving as such in dedication to Shane Fowler, a motorcyclist who passed away after crashing into a pole at Dunsink Park in Finglas the week before.

CELEBRATING FINGLAS – FROM 17,000 MILES AWAY

IN MAY, we looked at emigration in the age of Facebook, speaking with Finglas man Tom Bruen

who runs the online group Finglas Memories from 17,185 miles away from home.

Home to nearly 20,000 members both at home and abroad, Tom says many people have organised reunions and rediscovered long-lost friends through the page.

June BLEAK FUTURE FOR LIBERTIES’ MARKETS

A HOST of markets in the Liberties were made quasi-homeless, as they were ordered to leave their premises at Newmarket Square in the Liberties.

The owner of a number of properties in Newmarket Square issued the notice to markets such as Dublin Flea, who host their events on the premises.

A majority of the markets have since found new homes in places across the city such as Bluebell and Point Square.

A LOOK BACK AT SOME OF 2018’S TOP STORIES IN

BUS CONNECTS SET TO DEVOUR CITY GARDENS

SH O C K g re e te d t h e announcement that thousands of Dubs may lose their gardens as the city makes way for Bus Connects.

It was revealed that more than 1,300 people may lose their front gardens as part of plans by the National Transport Authority to introduce 16 new high-speed bus corridors in the city.

Work is slowly beginning on the project, with a number of householders along the proposed corridors receiving letters in November informing them if they’d be affected.

DESPERATE ATTEMPTS TO SAVE CANCER MUM

A COMMUNITY rallied around a cancer-struck mum who needed to travel abroad for a specific treatment.

Kelly Hommes, who was born and raised in

Sheriff Street in the city centre, was diagnosed with an aggressive form of lung cancer in February, which has gone on to spread through her lungs and to her liver and lymph nodes.

More than €30,000 was raised to send Kelly to Budapest for the treatment, but tragically the mother of five passed away in August, with hundreds paying tribute to her on social media.

RANELAGH RAGE OVER ‘MONSTROSITY’ BUILD

RESIDENTS of a quiet cul-de-sac in Ranelagh said that they were never consulted by Dublin City Council over the construction of a ‘monolithic monstrosity’ overshadowing their quiet and peaceful community.

The Bannaville residents contacted Dublin Gazette in an effort to shed light on why this building, containing two mews houses, was constructed without them being consulted, considering how out of line it is with the surrounding Georgian architecture.

JUNE: A sea of colour swept through the city centre as the Women’s Mini Marathon took annual event attracting tens of thousands of women (and some rogue males) to the fun

JUNE: Trinity lost one of its oldest trees with disease leading to its removal

DEVASTATING INJURY FROM SCRAMBLER HIT

A MAN was severely injured in a scrambler incident in Darndale Park, leading to multiple councillors and communities calling for stricter legislation to be introduced.

Ilabek Avetian suffered catastrophic head injuries and lost an eye in the tragic incident earlier this year, and has been in Beaumont Hospital since.

His wife, Anzhela Kotsinian, has also asked for stricter guidelines on scramblers, with An Garda Siochana echoing her sentiments.

There has still been nobody charged with Ilabek’s accident, seven months on.

THOUSANDS SEND LOVE TO TERMINALLY ILL BOY

A DUBLIN mum asked for people to send as many birthday cards as possible to her terminally-ill son Oscar in June, as he celebrated his fourth birthday.

JULY: There was delight at O’Devaney Gardens in the north inner city as the sod was turned on the first phase of its redevelopment

Yavanna Evans, also known as the blogger ‘MakeUpMonster’, revealed that little Oscar was diagnosed with a rare form of terminal brain tumour earlier this year.

He received thousands of cards from all over the globe, as well as a video message from his idol, TV presenter Richard Osman.

There is a GoFundMe to fund more adventures for Oscar that can be found a t w w w . go f u n d m e . com/oscars-dipg-fund.

July ‘DEATH TRAP’ FEARS OVER COOLOCK HOMES

THERE was controversy in

3 January 2019 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 7

YEAR IN REVIEW

THE DUBLIN CITY AREA died, but that the family “deserves closure”, especially his three children, one of whom he never got to meet before he disappeared.

Tributes had been paid to the popular Finglas native on Facebook, with one person saying that Shine-Dixon was “loyal to the back-bone”.

A ‘MARRY ME’ SURPRISE HIDDEN IN THIS PAPER

place, with the

JUNE: Old and young alike enjoyed Odins

central event

Wood Daycare Centre’s tea dance

JUNE: Bloom was a smash hit, attracting thousands of visitors to the Phoenix Park festival. Picture: Chris Bellew

JUNE: The sights of a bygone era briefly passed through the city as Bloomsday was celebrated in style

Coolock as several residents in Kilmore moved out of their homes, claiming they were a ‘death trap’.

The locals said they didn’t feel safe in their homes, as large cracks appeared in the stairwell of their block and the concrete stairwell has begun to move.

Structural repairs costing about €250,000 proceeded immediately at eight blocks of flats in the complex.

MAN’S REMAINS FOUND BURIED IN FRANCE

THE remains of a Finglas man who had been missing since 2009 were found buried in the French city of Perpignan.

Paul Shine-Dixon was travelling throughout Europe, on his way to meet his pregnant girlfriend, when he disappeared on May 3, 2009.

In an interview in 2013, Shine-Dixon’s mother, Clare, said she “long accepted” that her son had

A WELSH woman on a bucket list trip to Dublin in July got the surprise of her life when she opened Dublin Gazette to find a marriage proposal from her partner inside.

Laetitia Rocke’s partner, Russell Kent, whisked her away to our city, which she had always wanted to visit.

Unbeknownst to Laetitia, Russell had been in touch with this paper to arrange an even bigger surprise by placing an ad on a page about Michael Buble – a favourite musician – asking Laetitia to marry him.

In the touching ad, Russell wrote: “To my darling Laetitia, all I can say is thank you for bringing so much joy and love to my life.

“Being with you is everything, and life is for sharing. I completely and utterly love you. I am all in ... Are you?”

Having played our small part in Russell’s cunning plan, we are delighted to report that Laetitia accepted Russell’s proposal, with the happy couple planning to tie the knot next summer.

O’DEVANEY GARDENS WORKS FINALLY BEGIN

AFTER a decade without progress, work began on the regeneration of O’Devaney Gardens in the north inner city.

In the first phase of the development, it’s expected that 56 social housing units will be constructed on the site of the former flats, with a total of 600 homes to be built overall on the 14-acre site.

It is expected that 30% of the new development will be social housing, 20%

will be ‘affordable’ housing, and the other 50% will be private homes.

‘COINAGE’ COMPLAINT EARNS A €20 LEAP CARD

CONOR McGregor’s father, Tony, went viral over the summer after making a trip on the DART. Tony McGregor made waves on social media after posting a video of himself complain-

ing about how he had nowhere to put the “coinage” in his “slim-fitting Hugo Boss suit”, given to him as change for a “crisp €20 note” by a ticket machine.

In the wake of the memes that appeared across the internet, a GoFundMe account was set up to help McGregor get a Leap card, reaching its €20 target in less

than a day.

CITY’S FIRST TRANS PRIDE PARADE IS HELD

DUBLIN hosted its first Trans Pride parade, with a sizeable turnout.

The parade focused on the theme of bodily autonomy, with an aim to highlight the issue of transgender individuals in Ireland not being given full control over

their own bodies.

It was the second political gathering relating to transgender rights in the capital in July, as hundreds participated in a grassroots protest in the city centre just two weeks previously, calling for better healthcare for transgender people in Ireland.

Continued overleaf on Page 8

8 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 3 January 2019

YEAR IN REVIEW Continued from Page 7

the Grand Canal Dock area.

August

SEA OF HOTELS SET TO SWAMP DUBLIN CITY

RANELAGH ARTS CENTRE SET TO CLOSE

Aliaksandr ‘Sasha’ Haldayeu with President Higgins. Pictures: Peter Houlihan

President Higgins meets children of Chernobyl A SPECIAL group of Chernobyl children and young adults were given the surprise of a life-time as the President of Ireland Michael D Higgins opened the doors of Aras an Uachtarain for a festive celebration upon their recent arrival in Ireland.

The visit took place less than 24 hours after the group arrived into Dublin Airport for a health-boosting Rest and Recuperation visit with Adi Roche’s Chernobyl Children International charity Speaking about the exciting recep-

tion at Aras an Uachtarain, as well as the arrival of the Rest and Recuperation children, CCI’s voluntary chief executive, Adi Roche, said: “These children spend their days incarcerated in institutions and segregated from society, so to see them welcomed by President Higgins to the heart of our nation is so beautiful and poignant.

“President Higgins has always been a stalwart supporter of the children of Chernobyl and I cannot find the words to express how grateful we are to him for this.”

AFTER almost a decade in its current premises, Ranelagh Arts Centre announced that it was to be forced to close its doors in October.

The centre said it would shut its doors for the final time on October 8, due to a “€60,000 rent demand” from the new owners of its building.

Ranelagh Arts Centre moved into its current premises in 2009 after the property fell into NAMA’s hands.

STRIKE ACTION HITS PHARMACY CHAIN

LLOYDS Pharmacy workers went on strike a number of times this year, fighting against unequal pay scales and zero-hour contracts.

Mandate Trade Union, which represented more than 200 Lloyds workers, said more than 40 stores took part in industrial action in September, October and November.

In April, the Labour Court recommended that management of Lloyds Pharmacy communicate with Mandate as their worker’s representatives.

U2 CENTRE PLAN HITS A SOUR NOTE AT QUAY

Helen Faughan greets Sasha Midovski

Igor Shadzhou

President Higgins meets Maryna Malinovskaya and her host, Trina Rooney

RESIDENTS of Hanover Quay didn’t think a visitor centre dedicated to U2 was the sweetest thing, lodging a number of complaints against the building.

A background concept for the visitor centre says that the current Hanover Quay space is “now little used” but has become a place of “pilgrimage for U2 fans worldwide” who leave graffiti and markings as a sign of respect on the building.

However, there were complaints from 63 residents, and property investment firm Carysfort Capital have said the new huge visitor centre will have a “profound and long-term effect” on the character of

WE REPORTED that a staggering 3,000 hotel rooms were to be built in the capital by the end of 2018.

There are more than 30 hotel projects currently in development within the Dublin City Council area that are expected to be completed between this year and 2020, creating 2,425 hotel rooms.

Some of the city’s bestknown institutions are being demolished to make room for more hotels, with Dorset Street’s iconic pub, The Big Tree, closing its doors in September to make room for a 140-bedroom hotel.

MUSIC BUY SEES MCD BOUGHT BY UK FIRM

ONE of Ireland’s leading concert promoters, MCD, was purchased by UKbased company LNGaiety.

The company is a 50/50 joint venture between MCD’s current owners, Denis Desmond and Caroline Downey, and global concert promoters, Live Nation.

Live Nation are promotors of 120 festivals worldwide, including the Lollapalooza series of festivals.

September RETIREE THANKED FOR ENDLESS FUNDRAISING

A RETIREE from Templeogue received a medal and certificate of thanks after raising more than €350,000 for Crumlin Children’s Hospital over the past two decades.

Paddy Brennan (64), who has raised more than €359,000 for CMRF Crumlin over the past 20 years, was praised by the charity for “going

A LOOK BACK AT

AUGUST: Her selfie with him-selfie - Swords girl Alison Nevin nabbed one of 2018’s most famous selfies when she asked Pope Francis for a pic during his Dublin visit

above and beyond”.

He was a former child patient of the hospital, attending regularly for nine years due to an ear condition, and promised himself that when he could, he’d fundraise for the charity.

DRIVERLESS SHUTTLE TRIAL AT DOCKLANDS

IRELAND’s first driverless shuttle was trialled in the Docklands, in a special event organised

by Dublin City Council.

The Easymile ‘EZ10’, a driverless, electric shuttle bus which can carry up to 15 people, was tested out as part of Dublin City Council’s Smart Docklands event on September 21 and 22.

Considered as state-ofthe-art, the bus is packed with Smart technologies including cameras, processors and sensors that enable a trip to run smoothly.

FURY OVER HOUSING REMOVAL AT PROPERTY

H O U S I N G a c t iv i s t s lashed out at An Garda Siocha-

na and Minister for Housing Eoghan Murphy, following a night of hostility in the city centre as housing protestors were removed from a property.

Members of a sit-in protest at the vacant house at Number 34, North Fredrick Street – organised by activist group Take Back The City – were removed from the property by a gang of more than 10 masked men.

Take Back The City have since organised other protests in various areas such as the Residential Tenancies Board office and Airbnb’s offices to highlight the housing crisis in the capital.

FLEA MARKET HIT BY CITY’S GENTRIFICATION

THE organisers of one of the city’s most prolific markets slammed the on-going gentrification of the city centre as they struggle to find suitable properties from which to trade.

Dublin Flea Market has been struggling to find a suitable premises for its Sunday market since being evicted from Newmarket Square in the Liberties, and has placed blame on the “changing economic landscape” of the capital.

Dublin Flea had been operating a Christmas market in Point Square

3 January 2019 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 9

SOME OF 2018’S TOP STORIES IN DUBLIN CITY

YEAR IN REVIEW

Top stories of 2018

‘Mikkel D’ romps home as President, but raises questions over expenses

SEPTEMBER: There was national anger when a gang of masked men removed housing activists from a property

SEPTEMBER: The whole city was happy to be blue when Dublin claimed

alongside gardai in protective masks

the All Ireland Senior Football championship title yet again

during December, but they are still searching for a permanent premises.

MAGDALENE LAUNDRY SITE’S SALE IS BLOCKED

THE sale of the last

remaining Magdalene Laundry site, in the north inner city, was stopped

by Dublin City councillors in 2018 – 22 years after the building closed.

Sean McDermott Street’s Magdalene Laun-

dry site was up for sale, in a move that was highly contested by several individuals within the council, as well as by the general public.

The two-acre site on the north side of the city

is the last site of its kind under State ownership, and there have been calls for a memorial to be erected on the site.

Continued overleaf on Page 10

POPULAR President Michael D Higgins successfully ran again to be President, largely running rings around his fellow candidates.

He showed some of the shrewd acumen that’s made him a stalwart of the Irish political scene for decades, declaring his interest in running again late in the game, leaving rivals with relatively little time to organise their campaigns – indeed, Sinn Fein were the only party to nominate a candidate to run against him, although their choice only secured 6.3% of the tally.

In the end, Higgins romped past the post in late October with a landslide win – 55.8% of the vote – far ahead of rivals, although Independent candidate Peter Casey proved the dark horse of the race.

He surged out of nowhere with 23% of the vote, seemingly swept along by controversial comments that drew plenty of

criticism in the media – but also earned him plenty of votes at the ballot box.

The effortless victory for President Higgins was soured, however, by rivals’ criticisms over expenses and expenditure incurred by his office, who raised some sharp questions over everything from the cost of feeding his beloved dogs to the use of the government jet to travel to Belfast.

10 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 3 January 2019

YEAR IN REVIEW Continued from Page 9 RUGBY FANS MOURN AS KIELY’S SHUTS DOWN

Laura Manning and Grace Thompson try out an exhibit. Pictures: Robbie Reynolds

An electrifying time at a thrilling Explorium

EXPLORIUM, Ireland’s first sport and science centre is set to become the country’s most exciting destination for family fun in 2019.

Throwing open its doors last week, this amazing new family day out includes

over 300 interactive exhibits, spanning 110,000 square feet at the foothills of the Dublin Mountains.

Exhibits include the world’s largest manmade indoor caving structure; visitors can get within 10 feet of almost a

million volts of electricity with the Tesla Coil, or the daredevils amongst us can have a go in the G-Force anti-gravity loop track where visitors are harnessed into a bicycle and rotate 360 degrees on a circular track.

A LEGENDARY Donnybrook pub closed its doors for the final time, with rugby fans reeling from the loss of the popular pub.

Kiely’s of Donnybrook announced in April that it would be closing its doors, after owners Mary and Pat Crimin decided to retire from running the pub, after 30 years.

They pulled their final pint in September in the most fitting way possible, as one of D4’s most popular characters, Ross O’Carroll Kelly, launched his latest book, Dancing with the Tzars, in the South Dublin stalwart.

October COLLEGE GREEN PLAZA PLAN SHOT DOWN

AN BORD Pleanala rejected plans for the controversial pedestrianisation of the College Green plaza in front of Trinity College.

The planning authority announced that it would be refusing permission for the move, citing traffic concerns and the impact that removing buses from Dame Street would have on the city as a whole.

Dublin City Council announced in December that it would be lodging a new revised plan for the pedestrian plaza in the new year.

CLERY’S BUILDING IS SOLD IN €60M DEAL

Head of Science and Sport, Mark Langtry with Laura Manning, Grace Thompson, Conal Curran, Tommy Horkan and Sarah Thompson

Mark and the kids take a look at another Explorium exhibit

THE iconic Clery’s building on O’Connell Street was purchased by an international investment group.

Europa Capital acquired the building for more than €60m in a landmark deal.

The former department store – a stalwart on the capital’s main street – closed its doors suddenly three years ago, with staff only being given 30 minutes to gather their belongings and leave the building.

Work is expected to

begin on the new building in 2019. Just before Christmas, the new owners decorated the windows for the festive season in the ‘first step’ of the building’s regeneration.

FRAZZLED COMMUTERS SLAM CONDITIONS

COMMUTERS raised concerns over unsafe travelling conditions on two of the city’s biggest transport services.

Commuters from border counties such as Wicklow and Kildare slammed Irish Rail for a demand on services leading to unsafe conditions on early morning trains, while a concerned Luas passenger raised alarm about anti-social behaviour on trams.

Both Irish Rail and Luas reassured passengers that the situations are actively being monitored, and procedures are in place to tackle issues on-board.

CLUB POSTERS TACKLE ILLICIT DRUGS’ USAGE

IN WHAT was considered a first on the clubbing scene in the capital, District 8 added posters at its venue offering support for those who take narcotics on nights out.

Echoing movements from clubs across Britain, the posters advise patrons of the help and advice that is available to them should they be negatively impacted by drug use.

The posters are careful not to promote the use of narcotics, with the first line of the poster clearly stating that “District 8 does not condone drug taking”, but rather details that if drugs are taken, there is a medic on site and staff should be informed.

A LOOK BACK AT

NATIONAL TRIBUTES AS CAMPAIGNER DIES

A PROMINENT campaigner in the Cervical Check scandal passed away in October, with her funeral held in St Mary’s Pro Cathedral.

Emma Mic Mhathuna passed away five months after being told her cervical cancer was terminal.

She was 37 years old, and is survived by her five children: Natasha, Seamus, Mario, Oisin and Donnacha.

An Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar, requested that flags outside Government Buildings be flown at half-mast in Emma’s honour, and to mark respect for all those affected by the scandal.

November EVEN MORE WORKS SET FOR DAWSON STREET

THREE well-known buildings on Dawson Street are set to be demolished in the coming months to make way for a major €58m revamp.

H i b e r n i a n H o u s e, Hibernian Corner and Nassau House housed a number of offices, shops and eateries, which have been forced to close as a result of the pending regeneration.

An application for the works was lodged in March 2017, with permission granted that July.

The redevelopment is expected to include retail units and offices. Work is expected to begin in 2019.

RUSSIAN HONOUR FOR CLONTARF HOUSEWIFE

THE founder of Irish charity To Children With Love, Clontarf housewife Debbie Deegan, received one of the highest honours ever awarded to an Irish citizen by Russia.

NOVEMBER: Stephen’s Green The Hauntings Soldier, to help anniversary of World War One. lost during ‘The Great War’.

Founded in 1998, the charity To Children With Love has dramatically changed the lives of thousands of abandoned and orphaned children in one of Russia’s most desolate regions.

Debbie received an Order of Friendship State Award after be ing personally selected by Russian president Vladimir Putin for the honour.

3 January 2019 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 11

YEAR IN REVIEW

SOME OF 2018’S TOP STORIES IN DUBLIN CITY

million, the wider community in the northside suburb have been calling for a library for the locality since 2014.

GRIEF AS HOMELESS MAN DIES ON STREETS

DECEMBER: There was anything but a happy Christmas ahead for staff (and students) of a Portobellobased English Language school which closed without warning, leaving many people in the lurch with unpaid wages. The school’s closure was just the latest in a long string of similar closures in a sector which, shockingly, remains unregulated, with the school’s former staff calling for action.

A HOMELESS man found dead in Christ Church marked the 27th death of a person sleeping on Ireland’s streets in 16 months.

The man, believed to be a Polish national named Michal, was discovered on Cook Street on November 6.

A vigil was held for the man following news of his death, with his friends, locals and other Polish nationals leaving flowers and lighting candles at the site where the body was discovered.

December THE END OF AN ERA AS LILLIE’S SET TO CLOSE DECEMBER: Residents and Locals took to the street in D2 to protest – Markievicz Leisure Centre and the College Gate apartments above are threatened with demolition by the MetroLink transport project OCTOBER: NOVEMBER: Selfless Clontarf housewife Debbie

Dubliner

Deegan received one of Russia’s highest state

Diarmuid

honours in recognition of her tireless work to

Cleary,

help orphaned and abandoned children

AKA ‘The Microwave

OCTOBER: Dublin

Express’,

lad Fintan

took to the

Dooley (13) who

high road

began learning

around

Judo just one

Scotland –

year ago won a

carrying a

bronze medal

microwave

at the British

– in a bid to

Adapted Open in

raise money

played temporary host to a sculpture,

London, showing

for cancer-

the country mark the Armistice

his impressive

stricken

Tens of thousands of Irish lives were

dedication to

Dublin teen

Picture: Shane Dillon

the sport

Robyn Smyth

ANGER AT SPATE OF BURGLARIES AT CENTRE

A COMMUNITY was left reeling after a vital resource was rendered unusable after two subsequent break-ins.

Bluebell Community Centre was forced to take to social media to say that due to a second break-in at the popular hub, the centre was forced out of operation and closed to the public.

However, the centre

underwent repairs and opened again to the local community later the following week.

MICHAEL D FORMALLY TAKES ON PRESIDENCY

THIS month saw the formal inauguration of President Michael D Higgins for his second term of office as President, having comfortably seen off his five rivals for the post in the presidential election.

The inauguration took place at Dublin Castle and was attended by the two previous presidents, M a r y Ro b i n s o n a n d Mary McAleese, as well as church leaders and a whole host of politicians, TDs and senators.

Also in attendance were the five defeated candidates for the presidency: Liadh Ni Riada, Peter Casey, Gavin Duffy, Joan Freeman and Sean Gallagher.

€4M STATE-OF-THE-ART LIBRARY FOR FINGLAS

A NEW state-of-the-art library is set for Finglas in the new year after Dublin City Counc il agreed terms to acquire a former An Post sorting office.

The Development Department in Dublin City Council agreed the terms for the acquisition, which will also

see the DCC Waste Depot on Seamus Ennis Road transformed into a new library.

Expected to cost €4

FANS of Lillie’s Bordello were left reeling as the popular club announced it will close its doors for the final time on January 19.

Recognised as Dublin’s most glamourous nightclub – attracting the likes of Rihanna and Mick Jagger in addition to Irish stars such as U2 and Niall Horan – Lillie’s will close more than 20 years since it first opened.

The Grafton Street venue is owned by the Porterhouse Group, which is said to have exciting plans for the venue in the new year.

SHOCK AS LANGUAGE COLLEGE CLOSED DOWN

T E AC H E RS a t a n abruptly closed English language college in Portobello called on the Government to introduce legislative protection for English Language teach-

ers, after suddenly losing their jobs three weeks before Christmas.

Grafton College in Portobello closed suddenly, after failing to pay staff their monthly wages.

Staff held a number of protests, and the issue was also raised in the Dail.

Trade union Unite said at the time that there were reports that the college is currently undergoing a liquidation process and may potentially reopen in another location in 2019.

STREET PROTEST TO SAVE D2 POOL, HOMES

MANY angry residents and locals staged a protest outside an apartment block and leisure centre in Dublin 2 over plans to demolish the building for MetroLink .

The Markievicz Leisure Centre and the College Gate apartments above have been earmarked for demolition for the construction of an underground MetroLink station, with residents battling to save their homes and pool.

The demonstration was organised by the Save Markievicz Pool and Gym campaign group.

RESTAURANT DONATES TAKINGS TO CHARITY

A GENEROUS city centre restaurant, Wishbone, donated their entire day’s takings to a homeless charity.

The Montague Street restaurant donated the proceeds of their sales on December 3 to Inner City Helping Homeless, handing over a cheque for €6,500 to the charity.

It is the second year in a row the Montague Street restaurant ran the initiative, raising even more money this year.

Speaking on the fundraising initiative, and thanking everyone involved, owner James Stimpson said that the restaurant will continue to support ICHH every Christmas, as they plan to open a second city centre branch on Dorset Street.

12 DUBLIN GAZETTE 3 January 2019

LOVE YOUR DUBLIN: THE BREAKDOWN OF SOME OF THE SUMMER’S HOTTEST FESTIVALS

GET OVER THE WINTER BLUES

BY LOOKING FORWARD TO SOME SUMMER SUN WITH 2019’S BEST FESTIVALS

DUBLIN MADE EASY W

AN IN-DEPTH LOOK AT THIS YEAR’S BEST FESTIVALS

E KNOW what you’re thinking – we’re barely five minutes into the New Year, only just recovering from Christmas – but it’s time to look forward to warmer weather spent surrounded by music, friends and more.

Think forward to the Summer, when several festivals and hundreds of music acts will grace the capital and beyond.

The sun is shining, you’re out of this cold dreary weather and post-Christmas haze, and everything is calm and relaxing just for a moment!

There’s something for everyone this festival season, from the more electronic tones of Forbidden Fruit to the hip-hop edge of Longitude.

We’ve picked our best of the festival bunch to give you a look at what festivals we’re most looking forward to, giving you an insight into the line-up and what you can expect at each.

Be sure to pick up your tickets for these soon – we’re sure they’ll be sold out!

FORBIDDEN FRUIT WHERE: ROYAL HOSPITAL, KILMAINHAM BULMERS Forbidden Fruit Festival marks the start of the summer festival season., running from June 1-3. The Irish Museum of Modern Art will once again play host to this hotly anticipated three-day festival, which features a line-up for everyone.

Friday will be headlined by Skepta and Danny Brown, while Saturday sees Mura Masa take to the stage. The Sunday of the festival will be closed by First Aid Kit and Elbow, catering to all kinds of musical tastes.

Tickets are on sale now from Ticketmaster, but be aware that this is a strictly over-18s event.

LONGITUDE WHERE: MARLAY PARK, RATHFARNHAM NOW known as one of the capital’s best festivals, Longitude returns in 2019 with a stellar line-up.

Following the hip-hop and R’N’B edge of the last few years, this year’s line up is jam packed with the cream of the crop – Chance The Rapper, A$AP Rocky, Brockhampton, Rae Sremmurd, Amine and Future will all take to various stages across the south side’s Marlay Park This is only the first round of acts, with the second promising to be just as exciting when it drops soon.

Running from July 5- 7, weekend tickets are available now from Ticketmaster.

ALL TOGETHER NOW WHERE: CURRAGHMORE ESTATE, WICKLOW FOR anyone looking to escape the capital, Wicklow’s All Together Now is only an hour and a half from Dublin, headlined this year

by The National.

It will be set across 16 stages, featuring natural amphitheatres, secret woodland stages, and more. The flow of the festival will means the grounds will be easily navigable, intimate but with many quirky gems to enjoy at this 3,000-acre site.

Tickets are on sale now priced at €208.

The festival is family-friendly, and runs from August 2-4.

3 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13

TRAVEL... P18 MUSIC... P20

MAGAZINE

DUBLIN

FEATURE... P14

THANKS, 2018 – IT WAS QUITE A BLAST!

WERE you there? Were you one of the delighted thousands taking in the spectacular New Year’s Eve views by Custom House on Monday night?

If not – but even if you were – we’re delighted to share one last, spectacular shot from the thrilling evening. It’s our last action shot from 2018, but don’t worry – we’ll keep bringing you lots of great content all through 2019!

Picture: Alison O’Hanlon

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

14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 3 January 2019

FEATURES RETAIL: NEW CAFFE NERO OUTLET ADDS TO EXPANSION OF DINING SELECTION AT BUSY HUB

Food choices take off at the airport REBECCA RYAN

IF YOU are flying out of Dublin Airport in the near future, you have another food and beverage outlet to choose from to tickle your taste buds as Caffe Nero has just opened in the Arrivals Hall in Terminal 2.

The new cafe offers a range of coffee, food and drinks to have in store or to take away.

Food options include fresh sandwiches, wraps and rolls as well as sweet treats such as pastries, cakes, muffins, oat bars and fruit.

Dublin Airport managing director Vincent Harrison welcomed the new arrival, saying: “Caffe Nero is a great addition to Terminal 2 and is ideally

DAA senior project manager Terminals, Parool Rajput; Emma McCusker, Caffe Nero and DAA programme manager Emmet Murphy

located for arriving passengers and those waiting to welcome friends and family.

“The new outlet is part of an overall revamp of both the land-side and airside areas of Terminal 2.

“We are constantly reviewing and refreshing our food and beverage offering so we are delight-

ed to have this new brand at Dublin Airport.”

The design of the new outlet in Dublin Airport

has a lot of interesting features which connects with different parts of Ireland.

The bar has been handmade by an Irish company, Wilson’s Yard, while the farmhouse tables in the outlet were all made by a local joinery company, DC Joinery in Lusk.

The external wall was hand-painted by local artist Colin O’Connell. The store also features a large graphic of Grattan Bridge, and pictures of Temple Bar and Crow Street in Dublin city centre.

Speaking on the Irish tone at the café, Harrison said: “We’re really pleased that the new store has a distinctly Irish feel with its customised decor and design.

“I’ve no doubt that Caffe Nero will be popular for

both passengers and airport staff.”

The new outlet will employ nine people. The family-owned business operates more than 800 coffee houses across Europe.

Its new outlet in Terminal 2 means the chain now has 12 cafes in Dublin and 15 in total across Ireland.

The new spot will be welcomed for the busy airport. Dublin Airport welcomed more than 29.2 million passengers in the first 11 months of 2018, which was a 6% increase over the same period in 2017 year.

More than 1.8 million extra passengers travelled through the airport between January and November in the year just gone.

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU: SET REALISTIC, FAIR GOALS

Resolutions can be great – just don’t go crazy with them PADRAIG CONLON

ANOTHER year is about to end and a lot of people are wondering how to make next year better than the one just gone – and many of us will be making a New Year’s Resolution or two.

They will be trying to change old habits, create new ones, work harder, find ‘the one’, spend more time with family, earn more money, quit smoking, lose weight, and focus on other aims that will prob-

ably be forgotten before the first month is over.

Most experts say if you set resolutions like this you are setting yourself up for failure.

Maybe you don’t really

want to achieve them, but you just feel guilty that you should do them for personal reasons.

There is a danger with going down the negative road of lists of ‘shoulds’ that can end up making you feel deprived and unhappy.

Instead, ask yourself: “What makes me feel happy and fulfilled; am I living the life I want; what would enrich me and feel rewarding?”

This year, why not be unusual and make your New Year’s Resolution a living resolution that

remains a part of your life for longer than January.

Why not decide to do voluntary work, or anything that may enrich your life or the lives of other people?

Use this New Year as an opportunity to make an impact in the community or environment.

Now that it’s January, sit and think about what you want to achieve this year.

When you know this, then you can spend some time working out a plan to help you achieve it.

Creating something new in your life takes effort and positive action, but if you are truly committed to

Once the New Year celebrations are over, feel happy that you’ve set achievable New Year Resolutions that are genuinely helpful for you personally to aim for

achieving your New Year’s Resolution you will forget about calling it a ‘New Year’s Resolution’!

If it’s a living resolution that you are committed to achieving, it won’t fade after January finishes, because it will be a part of your life that doesn’t need a yearly review to survive.

Why not look outward instead of inward when

making your declarations? Maybe then you will be able to complete a year feeling satisfied, rather than angry, with yourself.

If you want a life that is truly fulfilling in every aspect, it is time to seek out the right answers. Make your New Year’s Resolution a success story – create a life you love.

As final words of encouragement to resolution makers: remember the words of Howard Thurman, African-American philosopher and activist: “Don’t ask yourself what the world needs.

“Ask yourself what makes you come alive and go do that, because what the world needs is people who have come alive.”

3 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15

16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 3 January 2019

FEATURES OPINION: SR STAN ON THE EVER-WORSENING HOMELESS CRISIS, WHICH HITS CHILDREN HARDEST

Thousands of children are still homeless – but you can help to make a difference to a family IN THIS Opinion piece, Sr Stanislaus Kennedy, Life President and founder of Focus Ireland, writes on the ever worsening homeless crisis and its impact on families, as well as the failure to undertake a sufficient response to tackle it. However, she also adds a note of hope, with the support that you can give to Focus Ireland to help it work with families and children in need.

‘‘

C H R I ST M A S is a special time of year for many reasons. It is a time we all think of our home and family.

However, as most of us look forward to this time of year, many people dread it, and none more so than the nearly 10,000 people who are homeless.

The harsh reality is that one family becomes homeless every eight hours in Ireland. Some individuals also lose their homes every day.

I have never seen it so bad. These people live under terrible stress and it’s the children who suffer the most.

There are nearly 4,000 children homeless.

It really breaks my heart to know that some of these children have been born into homelessness.

Some of them will spend their first Christmas with their family, all forced to live in one little room together.

They are our children too and we have a duty as a society to provide a safe home for them.

We have a duty to protect the childhoods of these children and to make sure they do not suffer from being homeless for long periods of time.

Focus Ireland’s Family Team work hard to support families in this situation, in partnership with the

Dublin Region Homeless Executive, and the support includes specific childcare workers.

Each family has a case manager who assesses their needs, provides support and works towards helping them to secure a home.

In recent months, the Focus Ireland coffee shop on Eustace Street in Dublin city took the step of extending its opening hours until 9pm so that families can have somewhere to be and somewhere for their children to play, as they face the stressful scramble of finding a hotel room for the night.

Lifeline services While the crisis is still deepening – with a record total of nearly 10,000 people now homeless – the situation would be much worse without the lifeline services and more than 1,100 homes provided by Focus Ireland.

It is heartening to hear that we have supported well over 350 families to secure a home and escape homelessness so far this year.

We rely heavily on donations from the public to ensure we are able to carry out the full extent of this life-changing work.

While Focus Ireland does receive State funding, we have to raise 50%

Putting a human face on an emergency – Sr Stan with Karen Ciesielski and her son, Lugh, at the launch of Focus Ireland’s urgent Christmas appeal. Picture: Leon Farrell/Photocall Ireland.

of our budget to ensure our frontline staff are always able to be there when people need help.

Focus Ireland has been running an urgent Christmas appeal with a hardhitting campaign that highlights nearly 4,000 children are homeless nationwide.

We really do depend on donations, now more than ever, to raise funds so our services can cope with the constantly rising demand.

I am asking people to please give what they can afford to support our urgent Christmas appeal.

Any donation will help us to directly support these families and also help fund our work to pre-

vent other families and individuals from becoming homeless in the first place.

People can donate at www.focusireland.ie or by phoning 1850 204 205.

One family who are homeless and living in hotel emergency accommodation feature in our Christmas appeal. The mother, Fiona, wrote in a letter about how the family are struggling but Focus Ireland’s help has made a big difference.

She said: “We have our case manager from Focus Ireland and I don’t think we could have coped with it all without her and Focus Ireland. They help us a lot.”

She added: “Sometimes, I lie awake at night and I can’t cope. I can’t believe we are still in this situation.

“But I know I can talk to our case manager at any time for a shoulder to cry on. My children love all the Focus Ireland staff.

They almost feel like family now.”

To me, this shows the real value of our work.

Our staff are there to help people in their darkest hour. To keep them going.

To provide vital support and also hope. To remind them this will pass. They will find a way home.

I would stress that every euro donated counts in the battle against homeless-

ness, as 89 cent of every euro received by Focus Ireland goes directly on services to support people who are homeless and those at risk.

The right decisions It is vital our society does not lose sight of the fact that homelessness can be prevented – and ended – if the right decisions are taken.

We need more homes to end this crisis, not more hotel rooms. The Government appears to be just accepting this as a natural phenomenon it can do nothing about.

But, in fact, it can take several meaningful steps to make people more

secure in their homes.

Much more can – and must – be done if we are to end this terrible human crisis and protect the childhoods of nearly 4,000 children left homeless.

We also need a massive rise in the numbers of social homes being built.

The Government must also implement a specific family homelessness strategy that includes a commitment that no family will be left without shelter and a cast-iron deadline that no family will be homeless for more than six months.

This needs to be done now.

We cannot wait any longer.

3 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17

One of ‘Ava’s’ pics from her @avavanroseofficial account

PEOPLE | DUB ON HIT SHOW

Nothing that’s Botched about ‘Ava’s’ rise to the top on TV

REBECCA RYAN

A DUBLIN glamour model has revealed her goal is to be “the most memorable Irish celebrity possible” as she appeared on a hit US cosmetic surgery show, Botched.

Ava Van Rose (28), whose real name is Bridget Byrne, features in the show where doctors Paul Paul Nassif and Terry Dubrow treat patients with extreme surgery requirements, or correct former surgery mistakes.

Ava Van Rose told the medical duo that she wants another breast e n l a rge m e n t a s s h e “wants to go larger”, despite telling them that the skin is so stretched that it is starting to ripple.

She told the surgeons that she has had two breast jobs, two buttock augmentations, liposuction on her stomach and back and a procedure on her vagina.

She said: “It’s a big deal for my body to look on point, because I take pictures. I still want to go

larger – that’s my dream goal.

“I don’t want to look like a mom; I don’t want to look like I’ve had a baby; I don’t find ‘the mom bod’ attractive.

“I’m not frumpy – I’m fit and fabulous, and that’s the way it’s going to stay,” she said.

The Clondalkin native added: “I went to [the] Czech Republic and I had liposuction to my stomach, liposuction to my back and my ass redone as well. I had them over the space of a year.”

Her goal, she said, is to be the most memorable Irish celebrity possible as she does not want to look “average”.

Ava Van Rose said she was contacted by the producers last year to appear on the TV show.

The reality TV star personality, who has more than 150,000 Instagram followers, has also previously starred in another reality show, Infectious.

Botched is available to watch now on E! and ITVBe.

18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 3 January 2019

TRAVEL COMMERCIAL CONTENT

‘Plan your next Escape’ with GoHop

IRISH holiday firm GoHop.ie has just launched their 2019 summer holiday sale, entitled Plan your next Escape.

Booking early is key to securing the best possible value and availability, particularly for families with school-going children who are tied to the peak season dates of June, July and August.

GoHop.ie all-inclusive packages continue to prove a popular option for many families as they make overseas spend a lot easier to plan.

European sun holiday destinations that are sure to prove popular in 2019 include The Algarve, Lanzarote, Majorca, Salou, Costa del Sol, Italy and Turkey.

A good choice of short-haul flights from all Irish airports and a wide selection of good-value accommodation are still proving to be the key factors in most holiday consumers’ decision-making processes.

Consumers whose main consideration is price have nothing to fear – GoHop.ie has a wide range of tempting lead in offers to satisfy the early bookers including exclusive sale offers and great family deals.

Regardless of your budget, there’s no excuse not to ‘Plan your next Escape’ and book that well-earned 2019 summer holiday now.

But be warned, early booking is the key to securing the best possible value.

GoHop.ie is now considered one of the most popular holiday websites in Ireland.

Irish-owned and managed, the brand continues to broaden its appeal to holiday consumers, offering great value holidays to suit every budget at some of the best prices on the market, operating flights from Dublin, Cork, Shannon and Knock airports.

The company boasts more than 45,000 followers on Facebook and enjoys a Feefo rating of 4.75.

Consumers can also sign up to the GoHop weekly newsletter for unbeatable worldwide holiday deals and exciting product updates.

For further information, see GoHop.ie, or call 01 241 2389; on Facebook see GoHop. ie; on Twitter follow @GoHop_ie.

Wonderful long

SYLVIA POWNALL

Travel Editor THE travel industry is on the crest of a wave right now with a whole heap of far-flung destinations emerging as hot trends for 2019.

Dublin Airport has introduced a number of longhaul services with direct flights to Calgary in Canada and a number of Asian cities.

Ryanair has also introduced 15 new routes, nine of them from Dublin, including Dubrovnik and Split on the stunning coastline of Croatia.

The hotspots are too many to explore here but they include Sri Lanka,

Croatia, China, Dominican Republic, Japan, Vietnam and New Zealand.

According to industry experts, most travellers are now seeking a bit more than sun, sea and sand and active, solo and retreat holidays are all on the increase.

Here are some of our favourites for 2019 ...

South Africa Enjoy a South African road trip, for 12 nights this May/June, from €1,695pp including car rental.

Spice up your summer and uncover one of the most stunning corners of the world with this offer from Travalue.ie.

This trip is the perfect

way to uncover all the beauty, cuisine and landscape that South Africa has to offer.

Your journey will begin in Cape Town, home to jaw-dropping scenery, a stunning coastline and sandy beaches.

Travel down to the Cape of Good Hope or venture by cable car to the top of Table Mountain.

Or stay local around the harbour area and take the boat to Robin Island where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated.

After two nights in the idyllic Winelands, you will move along to the Garden Route and spend four nights marvelling at the outstanding beauty lit-

tered across the area.

The trip concludes with a spell-binding safari with two nights on a full board basis in Eastern Cape Safari Addo Elephant National Park, with game drives included.

Price includes all accommodation and nine days’ car rental.

For more information on this offer from Travalue.ie, see: http://itaa. ie/2018/12/12/south-africa-6/ America’s Deep South Have you dreamt of visiting the vibrant Deep South? American Holidays have released fantastic offers that can turn your dream into reality, from

€1,218pp.

The southern United States are unlike anywhere else you will ever go. Hot weather, warm smiles, rich history, and arguably, some of the best food in the US – not to mention being a mecca for music lovers.

Fro m t h e Na s hv i l l e home of Country music, to the Blues, Soul and Rock ‘n’ Roll of Memphis and the Jazz of New Orleans – you will hear it all.

You can combine up to three destinations on multi-centre trips or choose an escorted holiday – the choice is yours.

For the following three offers, call American Holidays to book on 01 673

3 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19

haul

Some of Travel’s main trends to look for in 2019

Make 2019 the year you branch out and avail of great deals for stunning places

THE luxury travel market is booming – but the sun is also shining for other segments of the industry.

Here are some of the main trends for 2019.

Solo Travel Whether it’s for the sense of adventure and new experiences, to make new friends or simply for the freedom of planning what to do and where to go, solo travel is on the rise.

In Ireland and the UK, the number of people travelling alone has increased by a third since 2011 – and the trend is set to continue.

Green Travel The biggest issue in travel next year will undoubtedly be the impact of over-tourism.

As widespread concern for the environment increases in everyday life, so does the window of opportunity for sustainable travel, and the options are quite varied.

Searches for wildlife refuges and natural areas outside big cities is increasing, and so is the interest for “hidden” tourism in regional communities and local farms to discover organic products (Leitrim is ahead of the field on this one).

Here are just three of the unforgettable long haul destinations you could strike out for this year – Seattle and Mount Rainier (main), Torres del Paine (top) and Victoria (above)

3804, drop into their office at 18- 19 Duke Street (just off Grafton Street), or visit www. americanholidays.com.

Nashville & Memphis Spend four nights at the three-star Clarion Downtown Nashville, followed by three nights at the three-star Comfort Inn Downtown Memphis, from only €1,289pp.

Price includes return f lights from Dublin, seven nights’ accommodation, one day compact car hire, taxes and charges.

Based on two adults s h a r i n g ; t rave l t h i s March, American Holidays ref no: 51458553.

New Orleans, Memphis & Nashville Spend three nights at the three-star Wyndham New Orleans French Quarter, two nights at the Comfort Inn Downtown Memphis, followed by three nights at the three-star Millennium Maxwell House Hotel Nashville, from only €1,218pp.

Travel this February, American Holidays ref no: 51451764.

Tastes and Sounds of the South Take this escorted tour from €3,159pp; the nine-night tour will take you to Nashville, Memphis, Natchez and

New Orleans, with dates available from March to November.

The price includes return flights, accommodation, nine full breakfasts, five dinners, luxury transport, a professional tour guide and transfers.

American Holidays ref no: 51351243.

Amazing Alaska Cruise Explore the truly stunning Alaskan scenery on this fantastic cruise holiday, including Seattle from €3,499, taking in visits to Juneau, Skagway, Glacier Bay and Ketchikan, as well as a stop in the Canadian city of Victoria on the return journey.

Relax on board the stunning Norwegian Pearl as you sail past majestic mountains, glistening glaciers and, if you’re lucky, some of the incredible wildlife that calls Alaska home.

With a two-night stay before the cruise in Seattle, including a city tour, you’ll have time to visit some of the city’s many museums, shops and restaurants, see its bustling waterfront, the historic Pioneer Square and, of course, the iconic Space Needle.

On board, the Norwegian Pearl features include hot tubs, a pool, casino, a spa and much more.

Optional excursions at ports of call are also available to book in advance or on board the ship.

Prices start from €3,499 including return f lights from Dublin, transfers, pre and postcruise B&B hotel accommodation in Seattle, seven-night all-inclusive cruise with Ultimate Beverage Package and guided Seattle city tour, departing September 6.

For details, see www. traveldepartment.ie.

All prices and details correct at time of going to press; check with individual travel operators per deal.

Transformational Travel More than ticking boxes in traditional locations, modern travellers look for new experiences – and this includes meaningful, personal development and deeper connection with culture and nature.

It’s a bit more serious-minded than just yoga retreats.

A complete transformative trip usually combines a mix of physical, cultural and spiritual experiences – and, of course, plenty of time for personal reflection and meditation.

Interest for the segment has been growing in the past couple of years, and the movement is set to continue.

Cruises for Millennials Once synonymous with holidays for older generations, cruising is now finally reaching the millennial market.

For many, it’s an opportunity to discover new experiences and visit different places with friends, while others like the idea of travelling solo while still being part of a community.

The cost is also a factor: for a generation that’s constantly worried about prices, an all-inclusive trip with accommodation, entertainment and nightlife sounds like a no-brainer.

Some companies already realised the increased demand and developed packages with good value for millennials, but this new market can be explored further.

20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 3 January 2019

ENTERTAINMENT

GET TUNED IN

THE ONES TO WATCH OUT FOR IN THE COMING YEAR

The Irish acts set to breakthrough in 2019

2018 was another great year for Irish music, but there’s plenty more of talent just about to emerge from the bars and backrooms of a Dublin music scene recently shown to have more shows than its far larger compatriots in Birmingham and Manchester, and make their own attempts to conquer one of the toughest industries out there.

It’s always hard to call who might succeed in the next cycle, but some contenders stand out above the crowd. Here are our top tips to make a bang in 2019...

Silverbacks A boisterous Dublin rock band who have already found themselves highlighted by NME as they take a brutal stab at the country’s social problems in a complex whirl of guitars.

The Irish rock scene has had a hell of a 2018, and Silverbacks are about to add their name more firmly to the list of bands emerging from this city recently, purveying wonderfully abrupt, jagged guitar melodies.

A natural accompaniment to Girl Band, Fontaines D.C and The Murder Capital.

CARRON Tw o s i s t e r s f r o m Ranelagh singing heartfelt melodies strung together through turmoil and some truly stunning harmonies.

Carron’s career has been stop-start so far, but with a studio now set up at home to help them along, and live shows become a more frequent thing, they look all set to lift off in 2019.

It’s those twisting dual vocals and the delicate depth to the songwriting that really stand out here.

Rocstrong Andre JP Banagla’s act Rocstrong had a flying start to their career, after they were picked up by the Coen Brothers to fea-

ture on the soundtrack to the movie ‘Hail Caesar’.

Unsurprisingly, progress

 JAMES HENDICOTT

has been a little slower since, but the Congo-born Dubliner’s funk has taken on a new dimension recently that lifts him far beyond the role of good time guy.

He gets deeply and profoundly personal in exploring his upbringing on newly released EP ‘All On Black’, easily his best moment yet.

Spies Another stonking guitar band, Spies disappeared from our radar for quite some time after forming way back in 2011.

They already had three great early EPs, but the break - spent in part sitting on a newly recorded album and contemplating whether they wanted to run with it - has done them the world of good.

Debut album ‘Constancy’ is a huge contender for the Choice Music Prize next year, featuring a newfound electronic twist and some slow-burn self-analysis alongside their previous thrashing

guitars.

Topso Reggae is not a genre you’d immediately associate with Ireland, but for a long time, The Barley Mob did an excellent job of holding up a tiny rootsy scene in their own right.

They all but disappeared in 2014, though, as band members faced different lives.

Frontman Adam Daly was always the Kildare act’s star man, and he announced a return in late 2018, revealing some serious mental health issues and, thankfully, a full recovery along the way.

His previous band always wore their hearts charmingly close to their sleeves; his new one is likely to be just as good.

Zaska One of those men who’s been known on the scene for quite some time, Max Zaska has collaborated with anyone who’s anyone in Dublin in the creation of his debut album, set for release in February.

If the participation of BARQ, Wyvern Lingo, Little Green Cars, Super Silly and Loah aren’t a sure sign of the quality that’s about to emerge, his distinctive playing style and vibrant approach to crafting a deeply personalised sound should do the job.

Huge, huge potential.

Silverbacks

Carron

Rocstrong

Spies

Zaska

3 January 2019 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21

CHALLENGE YOUR BRAIN...JUST FOR FUN!

CODEWORDS

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

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

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

Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.

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22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 3 January 2019

MOTORS

WHAT’S NEW IN THE WORLD OF TRANSPORT

Opel Grandland X – an Xceptional SUV

New Audi Q3 officially launched

DECLAN GLYNN

AUDI Ireland has

THE Opel Grandland X SUV is based on the same platform as the multi award-winning Peugeot 3008 SUV. Thanks to Opel’s recent takeover by the PSA Group (Peugeot’s parent company) the Grandland X shares many parts with the French SUV, and comes with a similar range of engines and gearboxes.

Powerful & Elegant Stance Modern, dynamic lines, and a cool off-road look with elevated seating position give the new Opel Grandland X a powerful and elegant stance on the open-road.

With good all-round visibility, along with cuttingedge technology and plenty of space and comfort for up to five passengers – this is Opel at its best.

The new Grandland X side views echo the attractive combination of rugged SUV appeal and elegant lines.

Muscular, sculpted wheel arches and protective cladding on the lower body give the Grandland X real beauty and genuine off-road appeal.

In contrast, clear lines and the refined blade on the lower doors identify the new Grandland X as a member of the Opel family.

Optional two-tone finish with the roof in contrasting black adds an extra touch of personalisation.

Its smooth flow into the rest of the body is emphasised by the ‘breakthrough’ C pillar, which also creates a dynamic bond to the rear.

The rear view of the Grandland X possesses real SUV character thanks to a wide stance, silver

under-ride protection (with integrated tailpipes on the left and right), protective cladding and slim LED tail-lights.

Excellent Interior Ergonomics The cabin of the new Grandland X is equally as impressive as the exterior thanks to clever use of space and excellent ergonomics.

The instrument panel and centre stack with touchscreen are clearly laid out and horizontally aligned to the driver.

The centre stack has three horizontal rows of controls for fast and intuitive access to infotainment, climate control and chassis functions.

The interior surfaces have a high-quality look and feel, providing the occupants with a feeling of supreme comfort in all seats.

They benefit from the SUV-typical elevated seating position that facilitates access and ensures good visibility.

The optional panoramic glass sunroof floods the interior with light and provides excellent skyward visibility.

Typical first-class Opel comfort is ensured by the AGR (Campaign for Healthier Backs) certified ergonomic seats as well as a heated steering wheel and seat heating front and rear, which is standard on Elite and Ultimate models.

Specification Levels, Engines & Transmissions Four trim levels are available in the new Grandland X – SC, SRi, Elite and Ultimate, while engine options consist of a 1.2-litre turbo-charged petrol with 130PS, a 1.6litre turbo-diesel with 130PS and a 2.0-litre tur-

announced the launch of the all-new Audi Q3.

A second-generation model, the new Audi Q3 is a family SUV, which boasts unparalleled style, versatility and space for enhanced comfort.

The SUV earned the top score of five stars in the Euro NCAP safety test. The new Audi Q3 starts at an on-theroad price of €39,600 and is available to order now.

The new Audi Q3 is built with safety in mind. The family SUV comes with a number of active safety systems as standard and received five stars in the Euro NCAP safety test.

Audi pre-sense basic and Audi pre-sense

bo-diesel with 177PS. Transmission options consist of a slick six-speed manual or a smooth eightspeed automatic.

Test Car ON test this week was a Grandland X Ultimate 2.0litre turbo-diesel, eightspeed automatic, finished in stunning Quartz Grey metallic paint.

With 400Nm of torque available from this fourcylinder engine, the 0-100km/h sprint can be completed in just 9.5-seconds while leading to a top speed of 211km/h (where permitted).

Opel claim fuel consumption as low as 4.6l/100km is possible on an extra-urban driving cycle.

Standard specification across the entire Opel Grandland X range is impressive, with the range-topping ‘Ultimate’ model equipped with Navi 5.0 IntelliLink sat-

ellite navigation with fully integrated European satellite navigation, an 8-inch colour touchscreen, Smartphone projection with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth audio streaming and mobile phone portal, ‘Denon’ Premium Sound System, 19” alloy wheels.

Also electric wing mirrors with puddle lights, auto wipers, auto lights with high beam assist, front fog lights, power tailgate, black roof and door mirrors, rear privacy glass, chrome side window trim, cruise control with speed limiter, dual zone electronic climate control, 60/40 split folding

rear seats, flex floor, lane departure warning, speed sign recognition, traffic sign recognition camera.

As well as LED daytime running lights, Premium LED Adaptive Forward Lighting Pack, emergency braking system, hill start assist, ESP with traction control, side blind spot alert, parking sensors front and rear, leather seat trim, internal front seat cooling fans, heated front & outer rear seats and a heated steering wheel.

All trim levels come with Opel’s excellent OnStar concierge package, which can help you get to your destination, or call the emergency ser-

FACT BOX

1) Stunning, Family-Sized SUV 2) Four Specification Levels 3) Petrol or Diesel Engines 4) Manual or Automatic 5) Priced From €28,395 (ex-works)

vices in the event of an accident.

On The Road DRIVING the new Opel Grandland X is a real pleasure, with the car providing a soft and composed ride quality, while the precise steering is well weighted and confidence inspiring.

Uneven road surfaces are tackled with ease, and the car exudes an overall feeling of solidity – in true German fashion.

Pricing EX-WORKS prices for the new Opel Grandland X start at just €28,395, while the range-topping ‘Ultimate’ model is priced from €41,595.

I was extremely impressed by the new Opel Grandland X, and I think you will be too. Now is the time to recapture the magic of driving with the Opel Grandland X. It offers a true ‘German SUV feeling for everyone’.

front, for example, provide the driver with a visual, audible and haptic warning when critical situations involving pedestrians, cyclists or other vehicles are detected.

Also included as standard equipment is Audi side assist, which warns of hazards when changing lanes, as well as Audi active lane assist which helps ensure the SUV remains safely in its lane. If required, the car can even deploy automatic emergency braking.

The new Audi Q3 is available in both petrol and diesel units - in combination with either front-wheel or Quattro (4WD) drive. Progressive steering comes as standard.

Visit your local Audi dealer today for further information on the all-new Audi Q3 or visit www.audi.ie

3 January 2019 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 23

24 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 3 January 2019

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26 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 3 January 2019

THE BEST IN DUBLIN

SPORT

REVIEW OF 2018: LOOKING BACK: THE year gone by was a spectacular one across the board with world level medals across a range of sports - from hockey to pentathlon to para swimming and para athletics and beyond.

The men’s and women’s county footballers also shone, making for a sparkling 12 months to be involved in Dublin sport.



GAZETTE

3 January 2019 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 27

PAGE 28-31

LET DUBLIN GAZETTE NEWSPAPERS INFORM YOU OF THE HIGHLIGHTS AND SCORES OF YOUR FAVOURITE TEAMS CURLING | OLYMPIC SPORT AIM TO EXPAND FURTHER IN IRELAND

Sliding stones exhibition set for Tallaght  sport@dublingazette.com

THE IRISH curling association are using their January trip to Tallaght Stadium to demonstrate their sport as a dual opportunity, hoping to extol the possibilities of a first Irish curling rink to potential business investors as well as promote the sport itself.

There is no permanent ice rink in the Republic, though quite a few pop up over the winter season.

Those temporary spots give the surprisingly wide array of ice hockey teams – who usually play in Belfast – the chance to compete on home ‘turf’.

Curling requires a smaller area of ice, however, and the Irish association, largely based in Scotland, see an opportunity to learn from the successful Scottish model.

Across the water, the sport is far bigger, and there are a number of privately owned rinks.

They do not cost a vast amount to set up, and are often run as part small private entreprises, even in locations like barns.

With the world governing body working hard on expansion, advice and financial support are both possibilities for early adopters in Ireland.

“It doesn’t need to be a big deal,” Irish curler David Whyte, a senior European medalist, told the Dublin Gazette.

“Some of the smaller rinks really wouldn’t be expensive to set up.

We’d love to talk with anyone who’d be interested in doing something in Ireland, as it’s a huge opportunity for someone, we think, and for the sport.”

The World Curling Federation are currently working hard on expanding the sport – which involves sliding rocks down a rink at a target – into a greater international market.

As part of the process, they’ll be

James Russell in action for Ireland at the 2018 World Mixed Curling Championships. Picture: Jeffrey Au/WCF

holding events for both children (through schools) and interested parties on the temporary ice skating rink at Tallaght Stadium on January 16 and 17, including demonstrations by guest Olympians.

“People get quite excited when they see the pros, and see what’s possible,” Whyte says of the game,

which is popular in Canada in particular, and traditionally gets a huge boost on the back of Winter Olympic coverage.

“It has elements of chess and golf. It’s for people who like a combination of a team sport with some exercise, a physical challenge and some strategy.”

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

GAZETTE

28 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 3 January 2019

SPORT2018

REVIEW OF THE YEAR

LOOKING BACK: JANUARY TO JUNE

Mercy-less start to a sparkling season January DCU Mercy completed an incredible treble of wins at the National Basketball Arena when they overcame Ambassador UCC Glanmire by just one point, 72-71, in the women’s national cup final.

“Am I dreaming? To win by a point?! Nobody even imagines that in Cup finals,” said a dazed and emotional captain and MVP Sarah Woods after she put in a superb 21-point performance.

“We’ll never forget this moment. It’s been a while for the likes of myself and Aisling Sullivan – and for us to lift the cup together was extra special.”

St Kevin’s Boys added yet more silverware to their bulging cabinet by leaving the DB Sports Tours Champions Cup at Dundalk’s Oriel Park with two wins from three games.

The tournament pits the current SFAI and Northern Ireland FA cup holders from four age groups against each other, and the Under-13s got St Kevins’ day off to a great start with an impressive 5-1 win over Linfield FC. The Under-14 side were up next but they met a very

strong Glentoran outfit in their final and were left disappointed after a 2-0 loss.

However, the Under-15s ensured the day ended on a positive note for the club by running out 2-1winners over Linfield.

Warren O’Hora has praised former club Bohemians in the week he put pen to paper to become Brighton and Hove Albion’s first signing of the January transfer window.

February BOHEMIANS and schoolboy nursery St Kevin’s Boys formally announced a partnership that will see the clubs work closely together on youth development.

The partnership will see a joint team bearing the crest of both clubs compete at Under-15, Under-17 and Under-19 National League level, with an Under-13 league also in the pipeline.

Dotsy O’Callaghan said he will miss the “phenomenal buzz” of the county scene following his decision to retire from intercounty hurling.

Originally part of the Dublin footballers from 2003, winning two Leinster titles, he then linked

up with the hurlers and went on to win the 2013 Leinster championship.

“I’d have known last year that this was coming, I suppose mentally I was prepared for it. I was always quite obsessive about it when I was in the bubble so it’s given me a chance to step back.”

UCD Marian coach Ioannis Liapakis is raised aloft after the national basketball victory. Picture: Martin Doherty

Gianluca Vialli took the managerial reins at Erin’s Isle as part of AIB’s

Ireland amputee international Kevin

The Toughest Rivalry series. Picture:

Callihane in action against Poland.

Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Picture: Barry Cregg/Sportsfile

DCU Mercy were crowned

March DUBLINERS abounded in the heroic Irish rugby team that swept to just a third grand slam victory on St Patrick’s Day as they raided Twickenham to add the silverware to the Six Nations title that was already in the bank.

St Mary’s College graduate Johnny Sexton provided the tournament’s iconic moment in game one when he landed the crucial drop goal deep into injury time to secure victory over France.

A momentous 12 months for Liffey Wanderers was capped when striker Aidan Roche was announced as intermediate player of the year at the FAI International Awards.

Roche joined the likes of Damien Duff, Marco Tardelli and Shane Duffy in taking the stage at RTE Studios to pick up his

Erin’s Isle took home the Lansdowne RFC celebrate their AIL success with their young fans

award.

“I’ve never really been nervous in awards and stuff like that,” Roche told the Dublin Gazette.

“The feeling before it was something you can’t describe.”

Craig O’Brien continued his rapid rise as he landed the vacant Irish super welterweight title to go with the BUI title he won at the back end of 2017.

The Henrietta Street flats man got a unanimous decision over Sallynoggin’s Jay Byrne on the scorecards of the 10-rounder, extending his

record to eight professional wins with no defeats to date.

Na Fianna club chairman Cormac Ó Donchú spoke of the club’s pride at John Horan’s inauguration as Úachtarán Cumann Lúthchleas Gael at the GAA annual congress.

Sheriff YC were celebrating a long-awaited return to their home grounds after an insurance problem locked them out of their facilities in the north inner city.

“There were 300 kids being left on the street,” Sheriff PRO Hugo Rich-

ardson told the Dublin Gazette.

April R AHENY Shamrock men’s team made it three in a row, winning a pulsating Irish Life Health national road relays on home turf.

There was a see-saw battle in the senior men’s eight mile relay with Raheny eventually holding out in 37.47 from DSD in 38:10 and Kilkenny City Harriers in 38.14.

Lansdowne bridged an 87-year gap, bringing the Bateman Cup back to to

Division 3 title. Picture:

the club for the first time since 1931 as they defeated defending champions Cork Constitution 32-12 at Temple Hill.

The headquarters club tellingly strung together three unanswered tries up to the hour mark, second row Josh O’Rourke muscling over, Adam Leavy scoring from a favourable bounce and then centre Mark O’Keeffe ran in an intercept score.

A GAA club in the south inner city warned of dire consequences for the local area if the proposed sale of land at Dolphin Park goes ahead.

3 January 2019 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 29

GAZETTE

‘‘

QUOTABLE

QUOTES

Arthur Lanigan-O’Keeffe receives his world pentathlon bronze medal from girlfriend Natalya Coyle

“Those involved went above and beyond to do things no one expected of them and achieved things most said they couldn’t.”

- Olympian Ronan Gormley reflects on his Irish hockey career, encompassing 256 caps and 121 as captain.

basketball’s 2018 National Cup champions. Picture: Eoin Noonan/Sportsfile

Bohemians celebrate derby day success against Shamrock Rovers. Picture: Deryck Vincent

ladies football Feile

- Dublin ladies football boss Mick Bohan

St Mary’s SCT rugby team sing for their crowd. Picture: Paul Lundy

GAAPics,com

Kevins Hurling and Camogie club have shared the facility in Rialto with owners Templeogue Synge Street for the better part of 40 years.

Their catchment area, located in the most densely-populated part of the country between the Liberties and Dolphin’s Barn, houses more than 50,000 people – 4,500 of them children.

Club representatives have campaigned for five years for Dublin City Council to make available more green space, and as a short-term measure were offered a disused pitch in Teresa’s Gardens.

Te m p l e o g u e h a d received permission from the GAA to sell a parcel of land in Dolphin Park in order to settle a debt and upgrade the existing facilities.

May DUBLIN blew away Mayo to take their first ever ladies footbal national league title at Parnell Park.

The Jackies, in the earlyseason decider for the first time since 2014, started strongly against the side they beat to an All-Ireland title last year, and always looked in control as they strolled to a 3-15 to 1-10

win.

Graham Burke put his name in the history books as he became the first League of Ireland player to line out in an official match for the senior international team in 11 years.

The Shamrock Rovers frontman played the final 20 minutes of Ireland’s 2-0 defeat to France in the Stade de France in Paris as a substitute for Bristol City’s Callum O’Dowda.

Soon, after he became the first LOI player to score for Ireland in 40 years when he tapped home against USA. L i f f e y Wa n d e r e r s earned their place in the

promised land of LSL Sunday Senior football as champions following an emphatic 5-1 win over second-placed Swords Celtic in Senior 1.

CIE Ranch made it four promotions on the bounce as they hammered Mount Merrion 6-2 in LSL Sunday Senior 1B at the Works in Inchicore.

June A STUNNING hat-trick from Ben Quinn helped the Dublin and District Schoolboy League (DDSL) retain the SFAI New Balance Kennedy Cup with an exciting 4-2

“For anyone trying to promote women’s sport, it was brave, honest, relentless. The rules went out of the window and rightly so.”

Youngsters enjoying the Aviva Soccer Sisters camps.

Picture: Stephen McCarthy

final win over Kildare at the University of Limerick.

Arthur LaniganO’Keeffe went one better than his girlfriend 24 hours earlier as he won a historic first UIPM Pentathlon World Cup Final medal for Ireland in Kazakhstan.

T h e D o n ny b r o o kbased athlete and partner Natalya Coyle won gold in the mixed relay two years in a row but neither had

come home with an individual medal – despite Coyle’s best efforts in finishing fourth in the women’s final.

One of the more surprising developments of the local soccer off-season was Ballymun United manager Joey Graydon’s decision to step down from the role having guided his team to successive promotions up to LSL Sunday Senior.

“Because Crokes had been in so many finals, you kind of thought this will come again.

I didn’t think I’d be waiting five or six years!”

- Paul Mannion on Dublin SFC victory with Kilmacud

GAZETTE

30 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 3 January 2019

SPORT2018

REVIEW OF THE YEAR

LOOKING BACK: JULY TO DECEMBER

County stars paint Croker blue with a double again July EDEL Armstrong was ecstatic as a place in the Abu Dhabi 2019 Special Olympics was confirmed for the Cabra-based sprint swimmer.

The 23-year-old Armstrong, who competes in Special Olympics Category One in the 100 metre, 200 metre and freestyle events, has a mild learning disability.

Alongside swimming, she is also currently working on ALPS (Adult Learning Program) qualifications that will enable her to settle into future work.

She has been swimming since the age of five, and competing since she was a young teenager.

Darndale FC confirmed their return to senior football next season following a two-year absence with the decision to re-enter the AUL. The northside club dropped out of senior football two years ago amid internal problems and most of the team splintered off to other local sides like Kilmore Celtic.

It was a decision that surprised many, the club having won the double the previous year and falling just short of promotion to the top level in a league much more competitive than it is now.

K illester United announced a merger with nearby club Donnycarney FC. Killester Donnycarney will field combined Sunday and Saturday sides in the LSL and schoolboy sides in the NDSL.

August IT WAS the month the Irish women’s team burst into the public imagination with 10 Dubliners helping the side land a World Cup silver medal.

Raheny Shamrock’s sprint star Orla Comerford’s won double bronze medals at the Para Athletic European Championships in Berlin.

NAC’S Ellen Keane delivered on her billing as one to watch at the World Para Swimming Allianz European Championships as she won the S8 breaststroke gold medal at her National Aquatic Centre home venue in Abbotstown.

A stunning individual haul of 4-3 from the outstanding Jade Kelly paved the way for Ballymun Kickhams to secure the New Ireland Assurance Dublin Junior ‘E’ Ladies Football Championship crown at

Lawless Park.

Aoife Caffrey’s extra-time goal proved decisive as Na Fianna B claimed the Junior C crown at the expense of St Brendan’s at Lawless Park.

This helped the Glasnevin attacker to complete her hat-trick as part of her team’s unerring ability to raise green flags at crucial periods in the play.

Niall Murray won big at Croft

High five - Clontarf’s Siobhan Killeen scored an incredible five goals in the All-

Orla Comerford with her pair of

Ireland intermediate club ladies football

world para athletics bronze medals.

final. Picture: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

Picture: Luc Percival/Sportsfile

Dublin’s ladies footballers

September DOUBLE delight for Dublin as both the men and women’s senior footballers both claimed AllIreland glory.

Ecstatic Jackies’ boss Mick Bohan said it was extra special to beat Cork, their nemesis in recent years: “We couldn’t make it out to be more than a game with this group beforehand but I think everyone knew it was,” Bohan said. “That wasn’t shying away from it. If we had built it up in the camp, it could have become an immovable beast, and we didn’t want that.

“We’ve been building for this for eighteen months. When we came in, we felt Cork were the standard bearers and we felt, for us to take the crown, we would

Raheny’s Ellen Keane dives in to the 100m St Patrick’s Athletic’s players celebrate following the SSE

butterfly final at the world Para Swimming

Airtricity U15 League Final. Picture: Harry Murphy/Sportsfile

championships. Picture: Seb Daly/Sportsfile

have had to take them out. That’s with massive respect, they brought the game to that level, and we’ve set a standard by it.”

For the men’s side, it was a fourth successive victory.

Elsewhere, Coolock club Villa Celtic closed their doors for the final time, bringing to an end a 68-year history of amateur football in the area.

Ronan Gormley has formally retired from international hockey, bringing to an end one of the most influential careers on Ireland’s journey to the world’s top ten.

He was the first Irish

player to reach the 250cap mark in 2016 - ending with 256 in total and captained the side 121 times.

Walkinstown’s Niall Murray sealed the deal on his second British National Formula Ford 1600 Championship title with three races remaining, compliments of his race victory in Croft.

October ST PATRICK’S Athl e t i c we r e c r ow n e d SSE Airtricity National Under-15 Cup champions as their 10-men ran out 4-0 winners against Cork City in the final at Richmond Park.

Over 400 people from 28 different countries helped put pentathlon further on the Dublin sporting map as Trinity College hosted the UIPM 2018 Laser Run World Championships.

Buckingham Street native Troy Parrott was the star of the show as the Republic of Ireland topped their Under-19 European Championship qualifying group in Longford.

T h e To t t e n h a m Hotspur striker scored four times, including a hat-trick in a 3-0 win over the Faroe Islands, as Ireland breezed through to the elite qualifying round as top seeds.

Ireland topped a group that contained the highly-rated Netherlands, Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Faroes with a flawless record of three wins from three.

Siobhan Killeen put on a scoring masterclass for Clontarf as they defeated a brave Cuala side by 15 points to become Dublin Ladies Intermediate Champions for 2018 with a resounding 6-15 to 4-6 victory at Lawless Memorial Park.

November KELLIE Harrington finally reached the top step of the podium to get the reward her prodi-

3 January 2019 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 31

GAZETTE

‘‘

QUOTES OF

THE YEAR

Stephen Cluxton raises the Sam Maguire trophy.

Picture: Morgan Treacy/Inpho

- Shane Supple on retiring from Bohs “THIS is all I wanted and everything I dreamed of. I lost a final with Kilkenny here four years ago and I have a photo of my daughter crying because Daddy lost. I can’t wait to go home and put this medal around her.” - Templeogue

celebrate their All-Ireland senior success in Croke Park. Picture: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile

Kevin Dooney wins the 10,000m Clontarf Cricket Club with the Leinster Senior Cup. Picture: Rodney Smythe

gious talent deserves as she stepped up from her 2016 world silver medal to win gold at the World Boxing Championships in New Delhi.

She follows Michael Conlon and Katie Taylor in becoming the third Irish boxer to take a world gold, beating Thailand’s Sudaporn Seesondee in the lightweight final.

That honour added to the north inner-city woman’s light welterweight final silver from the world championships in Astana two years ago.

The conclusion of the women’s Cricket World Cup brought the curtain

down on four incredible careers as Merrion twins Cecelia and Isobel Joyce and Pembroke’s Ciara Metcalfe and Clare Shillington bade farewell to the international stage.

Brian Fenton was confirmed as the PwC All-Star Footballer of the Year with the Dublin lynchpin adding to his All Ireland title at the ceremony, where he saw off fellow contenders from the glorious Dublin team, Ciaran Kilkenny and former winner Jack McCaffrey.

Fenton acknowledged his teammates in the process, and acknowledged a good year, but ever the competitor, also

national cross country title.

Shelbourne celebrate their extra time goal in the

Picture: Harry Murphy/Sportsfile

Leinster Senior Cup final. Picture: Maurice Frazer

glanced at the areas in which he can improve.

“We have a collective drive but it’s absolutely built on an individual inner drive,” he said. “I’ll look back on the year and I probably didn’t have as successful an AllIreland Final as I would have liked. Certainly not in that first half.

Bohemians were crow ned National League champions for the second year running.

The Gypsies – who completed the double having won the Enda McGuill Cup in September – saw off the challenge of Shamrock Rovers at Tallaght Stadium thanks to a goal from Ali

“I will miss Friday nights in Dalymount the most! The flares, banners and Johnny Logan’s Hold Me now. Nothing will replace that!”

Reghba.

December REPUBLIC of Ireland women’s soccer international Siobhan Killeen grabbed an astonishing haul of 5-4 at Parnell Park to propel Clontarf towards an historic AllIreland Ladies Intermediate Club Championship Football title win.

They finished with all of 27 points to spare over Emmet Óg of Monaghan and, in the process, became the first Dublin club to triumph at this grade.

Clontarf manager Mick Cronin says it was a dream come true to

see his players hit their stride in an All-Ireland final as they became the first Dublin team to win the ladies football intermediate club title.

“In my wildest dreams I didn’t think we’d win by the score we won by or perform like we performed in the night that was in it,” said Cronin.

St Vincent’s proved the more efficient attacking force as they overcame Ballyboden St Enda’s in the AFL1 final at St Margarets.

In a rare year in which neither side made the championship final, the late-season league finale offered a chance for both sides to salvage some-

thing from their season.

It was confirmed, meanwhile, the National Sports Campus in Abbotstown is set to become the new training centre for the Irish senior hockey teams following news a new water-based hockey pitch will be laid there.

Spor t Ireland has commenced the replacement of the current sand-based hockey pitch on the Sport Ireland National Sports Campus with a new Polytan Polygras Toyko GT surface. This is the same surface that will be used at the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games and the 2022 World Cup.

Basketball Club’s Lawrence ‘Puff’ Summers following their National Cup victory

“We’ve never been here before, we are ranked 15th out of 16 teams. There’s no pressure.

So if you can’t enjoy a moment like that, your national anthem with all your friends and family there, what’s the point!” - Hockey World Cup silver medalist Deirdre Duke

GazetteSPORT JANUARY 3-9, 2019

ALL OF YOUR DUBLIN CITY SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

St Kevin’s clean up yet more DB Cup silverware  DAVE DONNELLY

sport@dublingazette.com

THE YEAR IN REVIEW

BEST OF 2018: We look back on a truly remarkable year for Dublin sport with medals galore on the world stage across a range of sports to go with All-Ireland success in front of some of the biggest crowds in Ireland.

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Olympic sport keen to expand in Ireland with Tallaght hosting an introduction day.

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BOHEMIANS and schoolboy club St Kevin’s Boys took home two allIreland titles out of three from the DB Sports Cup at Oriel Park in Dundalk last Saturday to add to their incredible reputation of success.

The schoolboy club’s Under-13 and Under14 sides were triumphant over Belfast side Glentoran and Tyrone side Dungannon Swifts respectively, while the Under-15s lost out to Glentoran.

The Under-14s were the day’s big winners as they thumped Dungannon 5-1 thanks to a brace from Jamie Murphy and goals from Billy Gilmore, Derin Adewale and Byron Preston.

The Under-13s were 4-1 winners over the Glens in a game that was perhaps tougher than the scoreline suggests, with Mark Tarzan, Ryan Markey on target alongside a Nickson Okuson double.

The Under-15s were outclassed 4-0 by the same club in the day’s final game, but all three sides acquitted themselves well in their first game of the year against clubs in mid-season.

All three sides were much-changed in the offseason, with the 13s and 15s losing players to the club’s partnership with Bohemians in the underage League of Ireland.

There have been management changes within the set-ups too and, with

St Kevin’s Boys Under-14 side celebrate their DB Sports Cup win at Oriel Park

“We’ve always had the same philosophy in Kevin’s to keep the ball on the ground and play out from the back. That played to our advantage.“ trials finishing only before Christmas, the teams are still very much in the process of gelling at playing and coaching level.

So for St Kevin’s Boys PRO Neil Fox, the haul of two wins from three is a more than satisfactory point heading into the new DDSL season, which kicks off at the end of February.

“All three teams are fairly new teams and there’s a lot of new play-

ers in those three teams.

A lot of them are getting used to each other,” Fox tells the Dublin Gazette.

“The Northern teams would be physical and they’d be physical games.

We’ve always had the s a m e p h i l o s o p hy i n Kevin’s to keep the ball on the ground and play out from the back.

“That played to our advantage in the 13s and 14s. In the 15s, it was a little bit more physical and, to be fair to them,

they were the better team.”

With Robbie Brady and Jeff Hendrick starring in the Premier League and for Ireland, Kevin’s remains the go-to location for young players in Dublin who want to make it in the professional game.

And the club’s underage link-up with Bohs is bearing more fruit by the year, with Daniel Mandroiu (Brighton) and Luke Wade-Slater

(Stevenage) the latest to swap England for Dalymount Park.

“We’re still involved with the 13s, 15s and 17s. And a lot of players from last year’s 17s will be heading up to the 19s at Bohs, and they’ve a lot of ex-Kevin’s players.

“They’ve signed a few this year, with Daniel Madroiu and Luke WadeSlater that played with us. There’s still a huge link that binds the two clubs.

“The League of Ireland is always going to struggle to compete against going across the water but now, with the under13s [league], you’re playing the best of the best all over Ireland.

“It’s an awful lot for the Under-13s, and a lot of these lads are 12s going into the 13s, so it’s a big step for them, but if you want to become a professional footballer this is the step you’ve got to take.”