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WHEREVER YOU ARE IN THE DCC AREA, WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED  JANUARY 18-24, 2018

LEARNINGCURVE OUR GREAT GUIDE TO FURTHER LEARNING OPTIONS

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PUZZLINGTIMES OUR GREAT PUZZLES ADD UP TO SOME FUN TEASERS

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SPORT O’Hora’s Bright future

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MAKE-A-WISH IRELAND NEEDS

YOU! Making dreams come true for seriously ill children – like an out-of-this-world trip to an American space centre for this Dublin lad and his family – is all in a day’s work for Make-A-Wish Ireland. Now, the charity is calling for hundreds of volunteer Dubs to give a few hours for its upcoming Wish Day, and help make dreams come true for some of the sickest children in the country ...

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COUNCILLORS RALLY TO SUPPORT NEEDS OF DISPLACED ‘GUESTS’

Gresham kicks out homeless families  MARK O’BRIEN DUBLIN City councillors passed a motion last week calling on the council to take steps to rehouse the 14 homeless families who are currently staying at the Gresham Hotel. News recently emerged that the Gresham would no longer be accepting payments from the council to house the families from the end of this month. Cllr John Lyons (PBP) said: “It would be unconscionable to allow these families, some of whom have

been homeless for more than a year, to become homeless for at least the second time.” Spanish hotel giant Riu, which bought the hotel from NAMA, told Dublin Gazette the decision was taken to facilitate the refurbishment of a number of bedrooms. A spokesperson for Riu said: “Upon completion, this renovation programme will place Riu Plaza The Gresham Dublin in a very strong position to rival the best facilities Dublin has to offer.” Full Story on Page 2

2 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 18 January 2018

HOUSING CRISIS | COUNCILLORS CALL FOR HOMES TO BE FOUND

FASTNews

 MARK O’BRIEN

Giant banner is to help the city mark Bliain na Gaeilge

14 homeless families set to leave Gresham DUBLIN City Councillors passed a motion last week calling on the council to take steps to rehouse the 14 homeless families who are currently staying at the Gresham Hotel (right). News recently emerged that the Gresham – which had been in the possession of NAMA before it was sold to Spanish hotel giant Riu last year – would no longer be accepting payments from the council to house the families from the end of this month. The motion was brought before the council by Cllr John Lyons (PBP). He said: “I am calling

on the [council] chief executive Owen Keegan to do what is right by these families and offer them long-term, secure Dublin City Council (DCC) housing. “It would be unconscionable to allow these families, some of whom have been homeless for more than a year, to become

homeless for at least the second time.” Cllr Lyons also called for a change of government policy in relation to dealing with the homelessness crisis in Ireland. He said: “We need significant State investment in public and affordable housing, with all council and other state-owned

land utilised to this end.” A motion calling for DCC to seek legal advice, including from the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission, to ascertain if the Gresham Hotel is in breach of Equality legislation was passed at the council’s housing meeting. A separate motion tabled by Cllr Alison Gilliland (Lab) also condemned the actions of the Gresham in ceasing to provide accommodation for homeless families. She said: “It’s imperative to ascertain whether or not this [termination] is in breach of the Equality (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 2015.

“This legislation established ‘housing assistance’ as a discriminatory ground with regard to the provision of accommodation and related services and amenities. A spokesperson for Riu said: “From February 1, we are commencing a refurbishment of bedrooms and suites. “This will necessitate taking a number of rooms out of the inventory for a number of months, which will reduce the hotel capacity. “To facilitate the refurbishment of the bedrooms, we have had to turn away a number of business opportunities, including Dublin City Council.”

AS PART of Bliain na Gaeilge 2018, Dublin City Council is displaying a banner at the Civic Offices at Wood Quay throughout the year. A similar banner will also be displayed on the council building at Palace Street for several months. Speaking about the initiative, Ardmheara Micheal Mac Donncha said: “Dublin City Council supports Bliain na Gaeilge 2018, the celebration of 125 years of the Irish language revival, especially as the revival began with the founding of Conradh na Gaeilge in O’Connell Street on July 31, 1893. “The council also will support and play an active role in Beo 2018 – a celebratory cultural parade and street concert that will be organised on March 3 in the city as an integral part of Bliain na Gaeilge 2018.”

2,500 volunteers sought for Special Olympics Games VOLUNTEER recruitment is now open for the Special Olympics Ireland Games 2018. This will be the largest sporting event to take place in Ireland this year, and 2,500 volunteers are needed to make it a success. As the premier sponsor of the Ireland Games, telecoms company eir plans to send a team of 200 eir volunteers to support the athletes over the course of the Games, which will take place from June 14-17. The Games will take place primarily in the National Sports Campus in Abbotstown, as well as at various venues throughout the Dublin area. Would-be Games volunteers can apply to join at http://irelandgames.ie/.

€76,000 assigned to help 170 community groups

Exploring women’s fight for equality WHETHER or not your granny – or great-granny – carried about a hammer in a bid to smash the male patriarchal establishment in days gone by, Dubliners of all ages and genders are welcome at a new exhibition in Dublin City Library and Archive on suffrage in Ireland. Running until the end of February, the exhibition is accompanied by a free New Voices seminar on February 17 focusing on the latest research in Irish women’s history. Early career scholars will deliver short papers showcasing their work on various topics, including women and material culture in 18th-century Dublin, boarding schools for girls in the 19th Century, and women and ‘The Big House’.

MORE than €76,000 has been allocated to approximately 170 different community groups in the Dublin northwest area. Welcoming the news, Cllr Noeleen Reilly (SF) said: “I am delighted we were able to allocate significant funding for community groups, which play such an important role in the area. “They do such valuable work and most are run by volunteers who give up their time and skills free of charge to make life better for residents living in these areas. It is only right and proper that assistance, albeit small, is given to them to help run their clubs and societies.” Dublin Gazette Newspapers, Second Floor, Heritage House, Dundrum Office Park, Dublin 14 Tel: 01 - 6010240. Email: sales@dublingazette.com news@dublingazette.com web: www.dublingazette.com twitter: @DublinGazette Visit us on Facebook at DublinGazetteNewspapers

18 January 2018 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 3

PEOPLE | CASH COMES AS MORE GOOD NEWS FOR INSPIRATIONAL WEIGHT WATCHERS LEADER

Mary’s 3,000 thanks as she wins top prize, beats cancer  SYLVIA POWNALL

A DUBLIN woman who beat breast cancer is starting the New Year €3,000 richer after being crowned Weight Watchers’ best leader for 2017. Mar y O’Donoghue from Chapelizod, who holds classes in Castleknock and the city centre, is now planning a welldeserved holiday. The 53-year-old shed an incredible five stone before she became a Weight Watchers leader 12 years ago. She now spends her time motivating others. Mar y told Dublin Gazette: “I was overweight all of my life – as a child, a teenager, in my twenties. I

developed very bad eating habits and spent a lot of time dieting from the age of 16 as a result. “I joined Weight Watchers back in 1998 when I was in my thirties and something just clicked. I think I was just tired of being overweight. I listened, followed the plan, and took my time. “If I hadn’t lost that weight back then, I dread to think where I’d be now. I love my food and I love eating, but now I approach it differently. “Back then I was single and living on my own and I guess I was a bit of a secretive eater; I would reward myself with food. Now that’s all changed.”

Mary has a double cause for celebration, having beaten breast cancer just months after being diagnosed. She revealed: “I was so lucky because it was picked up really fast when I went for a routine mammogram. They found a tumour and it was removed straight away. “I had four weeks of radiotherapy and the day after I got Leader of The Year I went for a check-up and got the all-clear. “It’s a great start to the year; it’s exactly the boost that I needed.” She added: “I’m trying to get the word out there about early detection. “If you have an appoint-

ment, just go! It’s only half an hour out of your life, but it could save your life.” Mary took part in a national fundraiser last September and wore her wedding dress to her Weight Watchers class, raising €1,700 for the Irish Cancer Society. She admitted: “It really was an amazing feeling to put my wedding dress

on five years later – I married in 2012 – and realise it still fits.” Mary is now planning a holiday with her €3k winnings. She said: “My husband got a horrible spinal infection last year and pneumonia and spent all summer in hospital. “We’re going to splash out on a nice trip for ourselves.”

Mary’s Weight Watchers Classes Leixlip GAA Club, Tuesdays at 9.30am and 7.30pm Glenroyal Hotel, Maynooth, Wednesdays at 9.45am Carmelite Centre, Aungier St, Dublin 2, Wednesdays at 12.45pm, 5pm and 6pm

Mary O’Donoghue wearing her

Castleknock Parish Centre, Thursdays at 7pm

to help fundraise for the Irish

Carmelite Centre, Aungier Street, Fridays at 8am and 12.45pm

wedding dress from years ago Cancer Society; right: how she used to look, before taking steps to lose weight

4 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 18 January 2018

Out and About

Minister Helen McEntee with students Shay Slavin, Destiny Burdeos, Zhi Jie Chen. Picture: Julien Behal Photography

A very proud day for young scientists O

Minister Helen McEntee with Timothy McGrath who won Irish Aid Gorta Self Help

VER 1,100 students showcased 550 projects during this year’s BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition. Now in its 54th year, the BT Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition began life as a science fair set up by Dr Tony Scott and the late Fr Tom Burke in the early 1960s. Since then, it has grown into one of the largest and best known student science exhibitions across Europe. Simon Meehan from Cork, took home the top prize for his project which examines killing bacteria using natural plant active ingredients.

Africa Science for Development Award. Picture: Julien Behal Photography

Ruth Murphy, Chief Counsel Business and Public Sector in BT with Cara McCrystal, Susie Holahan, Daisy Gavigan from St Joseph Of Cluny, Killiney. Picture: Chris Bellew / Fennell Photography

Shay Walsh, Managing Director BT Ireland and Minister Richard Bruton with Claire Gregg from Loreto College, Stephens Green.

Ruth Murphy with Isobel Moloney from St Andrew’s College, Booterstown. Picture: Chris

Picture: Chris Bellew / Fennell Photography

Bellew / Fennell Photography

18 January 2018 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 5

Out and About

Minister Helen McEntee with students Rosalie Phelan and Jessica Oke Cotter. Picture: Julien Behal Photography

Max Richardson from St Michael’s College, Ailesbury Rd, Dublin being shown an experiment from Rachel Hersee from Henkel. Picture: Robbie Reynolds

Minister McEntee with students Jack Corkery, Bryan Mortell and David O’Brien

Susie Gill, Sarah Kelly and Adrianne Ward from Loreto College Dublin. Picture: Chris

Ruth Murphy with Grainne Duggan and Caitlin Ni Shuilleabhain from Dominican College, Dublin. Picture: Chris Bellew /

Bellew / Fennell Photography

Fennell Photography

6 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 18 January 2018

ENTERPRISE | SUPERPUB, HOTEL TO CREATE 200 JOBS AT SITE

Wetherspoon’s set to create city centre pub  RACHEL D’ARCY WORK is set to begin on Wetherspoon’s newest Dublin location on Camden Street in February, despite previous public concerns. The low-cost pub chain, famous for cheap pints and pitchers of cocktails, will open their first city centre location at the former Camden Hall Hostel location on the south side of the city. Alongside opening their first city centre location, the building is set to include Wetherspoons’ first Irish hotel, with approximately 96 bedrooms in total. The premises were first purchased by Wetherspoons in 2014, with plans worth an estimated €4m

The former Camden Hall Hostel premises

finally set into motion last year. The Camden Hall Hostel building will also have its original facade maintained, says Eddie Gershon, press officer for JD Wetherspoons. The new building will

comprise numbers 1 to 5 Camden Street Upper, and will also include numbers 49 to 51 Camden Street Lower. The so-called ‘superpub’ is set to create more than 200 jobs across the hotel and the bar. Planning permission for

the new pub was granted last April by Dublin City Council. However, there was opposition from locals, with some highlighting their concerns that a Wetherspoons would further “alcoholise Camden

Street”. The street is already home to more than 12 bars and 36 restaurants, and has become a prime spot for nightlife in recent years. Cllr Ray McHugh (SF) said: “I would be concerned for residents and that their views are being taken on board. “At present, however, the site is an eyesore, and the building of a hotel and bar with the creation of employment is to be welcomed.” Construction is set to begin in February, and is set to be scheduled for completion and opening in early 2019. Wetherspoons already has 893 pubs across the UK, as well as four other pubs in Dublin and one in Cork.

Good news for Finglas as new bus route to link to nearby Luas  MARK O’BRIEN

FINGLAS will soon be getting a new bus route

that will link the suburb and the Luas Green line. Fine Gael TD Noel Rock, who represents

the Dublin North West constituency, met with senior management at the company last week where he outlined his concerns over transport issues between Finglas and the newly opened Luas line in the capital’s northside. He said he hoped this would ease traffic congestion and commuter frustration for communities in the area. Deputy Rock said: “This is something I’ve been pushing for since my election to Dail Eireann and I’m very satisfied that sense has prevailed. “I had been on the case to both the NTA and Dublin Bus multiple times on the matter, and I’m glad that they’ve managed to agree that the people of Finglas deserve a direct connection to the Luas. “I had a very construc-

tive meeting with Dublin Bus on the issue. This is common-sense stuff – Finglas buses to town are overcrowded and the new Luas line terminates just 500 metres south of Finglas. “The new route is certainly a step in the right direction, and something I certainly had in mind when I started my ‘Fingluas’ campaign.” Dublin Chamber, the group which represents businesses throughout the Dublin region, also

welcomed the news. Its head of public affairs, Graeme McQueen, said: “There are thousands of people living within a relatively short distance of Broombridge who are currently cut off from the Luas stop. “The new bus route, combined with better bike parking facilities and pedestrian access from nearby housing estates, would all help to encourage more people to use the Luas.”

FASTNews Fundraising exhibition to help support mental health  RACHEL D’ARCY

A PHOTOGRAPHY exhibition based on mental health is set to take place in Everleigh Gardens (inset below) on January 27. The exhibition, entitled Project Sshhh!, is themed around pain, with all images by photographer Laura McCarthy. McCarthy aims to fundraise for Pieta House, the charity that aims to provide treatment to those suffering with suicidal ideations. There are more than 50 people involved in the project, from models to photographers, with the images themed around a variety of different ‘pains’ that individuals suffer. McCarthy said: “We want to break the stigma regarding pain and mental health issues. We also want to raise awareness of the struggles people deal with on a daily basis.” The exhibition will feature a video installation, as well as live music, a DJ and a raffle on the night in order to raise money for Pieta House. Tickets are priced at €10, with a JustGiving page available for those who cannot make the event but who still want to donate, at https://www.justgiving. com/fundraising/projectsshhh.

New addiction studies cert course set for Drumcondra LEADING addiction trainer, The Learning Curve Institute, will be running its QQI Level 5 Community Addiction Studies Component Certificate in Drumcondra, starting in February. This part-time evening course is delivered with eight classroom-based sessions combined with weekly online forum discussions, beginning on Tuesday, February 13 and running until April 17. This training would appeal to those considering a career in addiction treatment services or community development, or those already employed in the field, who may wish to expand their knowledge of addiction, drugs and their use/misuse and receive accreditation from QQI (formerly FETAC). It could also be of benefit to anyone affected by addiction in their personal lives. The Learning Curve Institute is a provider of QQI-accredited training programmes, specialising in the fields of addiction studies, mental health and intervention skills, and has delivered courses all over Ireland on behalf of the HSE as part of the National Addiction Training Programme. The course fee is €375, and funding may be available. Places are limited. For further details and to book, see http://www. thelearningcurve.ie/qqi-level-5-community-addiction-studies. Alternatively, call 098 25530, email info@thelearningcurve.ie, or see www.facebook. com/thelearningcurve.

18 January 2018 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 7

COURTS | YOUNG WOMAN AVOIDS JAIL FINGLAS | COMMUNITY MOURNS SEAN HUGHES, 15

Suspended term Shocked locals pay for €24k drug haul A YOUNG Dublin woman who held more than €24,000 of cocaine as a free favour to a third party has received a four-year suspended sentence. Dublin Circuit Criminal Court heard that Yasmin Redmond (20), of Thornton Heights, St Michael’s Estate, Inchicore, was leading an “aimless” existence at the time and had agreed to hold the drugs in a shed for no money as a favour to another person. Redmond pleaded guilty to possessing cocaine worth €24,251 at her home on April 17, 2017. She has no previous convictions. Garda Nicola Gormon told Lisa Dempsey BL, prosecuting, that she and colleagues with confidential information arrived at the premises with a search warrant. Gardai forced entry as the home was empty at the time and were in the middle of the raid when Redmond entered. She admitted there was something in the shed as officers uncovered a school bag containing the cocaine block behind an artificial Christmas tree at

that location. Redmond was arrested and told gardai that she had been minding them for a week for someone else. Garda Gormon agreed with Ronan Munro SC, defending, that his client cooperated with gardai, had not come to adverse attention since, and had steered clear of former peer groups. Mr Munro submitted to Judge Martin Nolan that his client had been leading an aimless existence at the time but was now accessing counselling and attending Youthreach. He asked the judge to depart from the mandatory minimum ten-year sentence for drugs offences of this nature, and consider imposing a suspended sentence. Counsel suggested this was an exceptional case. Judge Nolan accepted that Redmond was very young, co-operated with gardai, and was at the lowest level of the drug dealing operation. He said Redmond did not deserve to go into custody and suspended the sentence for four years.

tribute to late teen

 RACHEL D’ARCY A SHOCKED community has paid tribute and a sad farewell to 15-yearold Finglas native Sean Hughes (right) , who passed away after being admitted to Temple Street Children’s Hospital with a severe cough and flu-like symptoms. Sean, a popular budding rapper known locally as ‘Lil’ Red’, passed away on January 12 at the hospital after suffering with illness for less than a week. He was sent home from his local GP with antibiotics for a chest infection and a bad cough, but his condition continued to worsen. He is survived by his

parents Karen and Joe, and his sister Zoe. In an interview with The Irish Independent, Karen said she was “overwhelmed” by the support from Sean’s friends. She said: “He was only 15 but he was wise beyond his years. He had so much love and respect for everyone. “We always knew that Sean was popular, but it

was so unbelievable to see hundreds of his friends lined up to see him over the weekend. “Sean’s friends were as important to him as his family, and it is so lovely that they are all coming out to pay tribute to him.” The teenager was a popular member of the community, with many taking to social media to voice how he would be missed. In one post, local Fiona Hanna wrote: “My mum was telling me how she brought him across the road as lollipop lady at St Joseph’s National School. “When she was having a bad morning, especially after my father passed away, Sean would always make her day with his

beautiful smile and small talk. I want to thank him for making my mammy feel better during her bad days.” Locals also posted their condolences on the I Love Finglas Facebook page, which posted a tribute to ‘Lil’ Red’, saying Finglas had “lost a legend”. Fingal Festival organisers posted a tribute on social media, saying: “Sean performed for us at the Finglas Festival and impressed us all with his talent. Sean’s passing is a sad loss to the Finglas community.” Sean was buried in Glasnevin Cemetery on Tuesday following his Funeral Mass at St Canice’s Church, Finglas.

8 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 18 January 2018

PHOTOGRAPHY | UNCOVERING POWERFUL STORIES IS A SNAP FOR PETER

‘Humans of Dublin’ exhibition celebrates the city’s citizens  SYLVIA POWNALL AN EXHIBITION of 60 photos by Peter Varga from his acclaimed Humans of Dublin series was launched in the south of the city last week, drawing Dubs out to Dun Laoghaire to get a glimpse at the diverse lives of some of the city’s citizens. Peter Varga was working in a Dublin cafe when he decided to follow his passion and dedicate himself to photography. Inspired by the success of the Humans of New York photography project, he began to walk the streets of Dublin interviewing and photographing those he met along the way. So began the social media phenomenon that is Humans of Dublin, whose social media pages have more than 175,000 followers. There are tales of inspiration and joy and those of heartbreak and loss – all of human life is present in this remarkable portrait of a diverse and vibrant city. Peter’s award-winning book of the same name was published by Gill Books in 2016. Although a native of Budapest, Peter has lived in Dublin for more than ten years. The exhibition will run until March 31 at the dlr LexIcon Library.

Photographer Peter Varga (right) with An Cathaoirleach of DLRCC, Tom Murphy, who launched the exhibition, and Ros Barwise from Dalkey in front of her portrait

A selection of some of the exhibition’s shots. Picture: Peter Cavanagh Photography

LEOPARDSTOWN is set to become home to Ireland’s most expensive school from this September. Nord Anglia International School will offer the international baccalaureate curriculum to students, and will be the first in Ireland to do so. Fees are set to cost up to 24,000 a year for day pupils of the South Dublin school. Millions of euro are being invested into the new €20m

Larry Mullen initiates legal proceedings in property row U2 DRUMMER Larry Mullen has launched legal proceedings against a series of contractors over a proposed refurbishment of a Dublin property. Papers were lodged by the artist and his partner Ann Acheson in the High Court last week relating to the planned demolition of a number of houses at Claremont Lodge, Howth to construct a family home. Mullen and Acheson had previously lodged separate proceedings against seven defendants regarding the same issue in October 2016. It is understood that the case specifically involves an issue surrounding a boundary wall at the property.

New website to help apply for a medical card Robert Thomas examines some of the people and Minister of State Mary Mitchell O’Connor with Cllr Murphy and Peter

stories in the exhibition

City suburb set to play home to Ireland’s most expensive school  RACHEL D’ARCY

FASTNews

campus in South County Business Park, Leopardstown, at the former Microsoft campus. The company state that the building will feature specialist arts and science facilities, a 120-seat theatre and fitness centre and will accommodate up to 800 students. It will initially cater for students aged three to fifteen, with plans to extend the age limit to 18 in September 2019. The Hong Kong based company behind the school, Nord

Anglia Education, run 47 schools globally for children aged between two and 18. The introduction of Nord Anglia to the Irish market is backed by Irish entrepreneur Barry O’Callaghan. “[Nord Anglia] are a significant multinational company who are committing meaningful capital and resource to the Irish market which in turn will lead to the creation of significant jobs over the coming years,” he said. It is expected that the school

will attract international students and the children of business executives, who they believe will relocate to Ireland in the wake of Brexit. Nord Anglia also say they will cater to Irish families seeking a ‘premium’ education. “ We a r e d e l i g h t e d t o announce the development of our first school in Ireland,” said Andrew Fitzmaurice, CEO, Nord Anglia Education. “As one of the fastest growing economies in Europe, Ireland is an increasingly attrac-

tive destination for families, fuelling demand for international education from both expatriate and local parents alike.” According to The Times, Nord Anglia are already considering building a second school in Ireland. In comparison, fees for private all-girls school, Milltown’s Alexandra College, average at €7,241 for day pupils, and Blackrock College’s tuition sets pupils back €6,900 a year.

A NEW online service has been launched that allows people to apply for a medical card. The new website, mymedicalcard.ie, will allow users to find out if they are eligible for a medical card immediately, with applications to be processed within 15 working days. Applicants will be able to upload and scan documents quickly, and will be guided through each step of the process. As part of the new online process, the HSE will be able to contact individuals through email, rather than post, improving the efficiency of the overall application. The Department of Health reports that almost 440,000 applications were received for such cards in 2017.

18 January 2018 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 9

COMMUNITY | TRADITIONAL BUSINESSES CLOSING AS BIGGER SHOPS CIRCLE

Liberties locals lamenting a gradual loss of identity  RACHEL D’ARCY ROCHE’S Green Grocers on Meath Street was a Liberties institution for the past 100 years, beginning as a fruit and vegetable stall before transforming into a stalwart vegetable shop on the bustling market street. However, Roche’s shut its doors for the final time just before Christmas, joining a long list of independent retailers in Dublin city – particularly in The Liberties – that are closing their doors as they struggle to fight major supermarkets opening around town. As a well-known face and “Meath Street mar-

vel”, Jack Roche closed the store to begin his retirement, with multiple locals comparing the closure to a “death in The Liberties family” on The Liberties Dublin Facebook page. In previous years, the area has seen not one but three local butchers shut their doors. Vivian Walsh, formerly of Fay’s Butchers on Thomas Street, which closed its doors in 2016, directly cited the impact of big supermarket chains as being the cause of small businesses closing. In an interview with TheCity.ie, when asked about the opening of one

Now closed, but immortalised on Google Maps – Jack Roche Green Grocers, Meath Street. Picture: Google Maps

such large-scale supermarket, just minutes away from Fay’s, Vivian raised how many people always say they shop local – but their spend doesn’t always reflect that.

“T his whole thing about putting a microphone under a woman’s nose, asking her where she buys her meat and saying: ‘Local butchers’, that is a myth. “I picked up a [large

FINANCE | MILESTONE EVENT LOOMING

Donore CU looking ahead to turning 60  MARK O’BRIEN

A CREDIT union in Dublin 8 is set to become the first credit union in the country to reach its 60th anniversary later this year. Donore Credit Union Limited, based in Rutledge Terrace, first opened its doors in April, 1958, and can lay claim to having the first credit union account holder in Ireland. Aingil ni Bhrion (88) is still an active member and was also a founding member of the credit union itself, along with her sister, Treasa. Commenting on the anniversary, Catherine Massey, chairperson of Donore Credit Union, said: “Our credit union has served our valued members through recession, emigration, boom

Aingil ni Bhrion, a founding member of Donore CU, with its chief executive, David McCauley

and bust, and we will continue to do so well into the future. “We will be marking this special birthday by running a series of events in 2018, starting with our AGM on January 18, to which all our members are invited. “Our programme of events will be memberand community-focused, placing the credit union

at the centre of the local community which we are so proud to serve.” On the first Friday of each month, the credit union will host a variety of different events for members, local schools, local sports clubs and community organisations. A partnership with Griffith College has also been established whereby a local student will

be offered the Brendan Lynch Scholarship. He was a former Lord Mayor of Dublin and a stalwart of Donore Credit Union for the past 50 years. Congratulating the credit union on reaching the milestone, the Irish League of Credit Unions (ILCU) president Charles Murphy said: “Donore Credit Union is in the vanguard of our movement – a movement that brought financial freedom and dignity to many of our fellow citizens. “Donore, through its example, kindled the fire of credit unionism, and by helping establish the ILCU facilitated and embedded the concept of cooperation between cooperatives. “For this, I extend the thanks of millions of credit union members.”

supermarket chain’s] receipt, for €38; €32 of that was [for] meat – €32 of it was mine [money that could have been spent in a local butcher, but instead was spent in the supermarket chain].” Some locals are unhappy with the changes to what is widely regarded as the only area left that shows an ‘authentic’ representation of Dublin. Local Liberties resident Caroline O’Doherty says: “I bought a house in the area 30 years ago, when it wasn’t so popular. All of a sudden, it’s fashionable to live here. “I’m sick of these bigshot developers taking

over The Liberties.” Hotels, student accommodation, office space and retail builds are all part of the plans lodged with Dublin City Council in recent years. Jonathan Sheridan, another Liberties local, says: “I’ve lived here all my life – over 30 years – and, yes, the area did become a little r undown, but I would rather that than the generic monstrosities that are being built in the area.” Major plans for a long sought after redevelopment of certain areas in Dublin 8 are under way, including the Newmarket area and along Cork Street.

FASTNews

We’re a pretty pricey city for holidaymakers  SYLVIA POWNALL

DUBLIN has been ranked as the seventh most expensive holiday destination in the world in a survey by airport transfer website Hoppa. The Irish capital jumped four places from being ranked eleventh in 2017 and is now considered pricier for tourists than London (ninth) and Oslo (tenth). New York topped the poll, with the average bill for hotel, food, drink, taxis and entertainment coming in at €389 per person per night. A night in Dublin is not that much cheaper and will set you back an average €326 – with our hotel prices listed among the dearest in the world.

10 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 18 January 2018

Out and About

Michelle and Louise Regazzoli

Katy Hansord and Hayley McCormack. Pictures: Andres Poveda

Noelle Cummins and Triona Morroow

Special screening of movie Darkest Hour F

ILM fans were out in force at the Light House Cinema last week for a special preview screening of Darkest Hour. The movie tells the dramatic and inspiring story of four weeks in 1940 during which British Prime Minister Winston Churchill’s courage to lead changed the course of world history.

Brendan O’Loughlin

Jake McCabe and Niamh O’Donoghue

Neil Fox

Lorna Weightman

Derek Carberry

Catriona McCarthy

18 January 2018 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 11

LAUNCHING A NEW BOOK

REELANCE food writer, food stylist and creative events planner Aoife McElwain launched her new book Slow at Work in The Fumbally Cafe, Dublin 8. Guests in attendance celebrated over fermented drinks and delicious canapes. Aisling Rogerson, co-founder of the Fumbally Cafe officially launched the book on the night. Slow at Work delves into topics such as burnout, anxiety, imposter syndrome, and Sunday-night fear, and outlines strategies which we can implement to combat these increasingly common phenomenon.

Teresa Daly and Giovanni Frazetto

Aoife McElwain and Niall Byrne

Fiona Brennan and Elsa Jones

Laura Arnold and Amy Coyle

Roisin McGuirk and Breda O’Reilly

Orla Byrne. Pictures: Brian McEvoy Photography

12 DUBLIN GAZETTE 18 January 2018

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DUBLINBUSINESS Telecom companies in focus for awards Plenty of food for thought as exports soar to new heights REPORT | DESPITE CHALLENGES, 2017 SAW IRISH FARE HIT €12.6 BILLION

SWITCHER.IE has announced the nominees for this year’s annual Switcher.ie awards. The 22 awards give Irish consumers the chance to have their say on the services being provided by the nation’s telecoms companies. Now in their fifth year, the awards also shine a light on the best broadband and TV providers and products in the Irish market, as well as highlighting the best of the mobile industry too. Virgin Media leads the way in the broadband and TV categories, with 15 nominations, while Vodafone is nominated in all seven mobile categories. As the only customer-voted awards of their kind in the country, the awards serve to highlight what customers think of their provider’s performance across a range of areas such as technical support, customer service and TV content. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in The Marker Hotel on Thursday, February 1. A full list of broadband award categories and nominees is available at https://switcher.ie/broadband/ awards/, while the mobile award categories and nominees are at https://switcher.ie/mobiles/awards/

Design industries preparing for this year’s Showcase A SPOTLIGHT will be shone on the city’s leading design businesses at the upcoming Showcase 2018 – the 42nd annual creative expo that focuses on a diverse range of creative industries. Designers, manufacturers and craftspeople from throughout Dublin city and county will present their latest collections at Showcase at the RDS from Sunday, January 21 through to Wednesday, January 24. The trade-only Showcase expo is an international launch pad for the 450 Irish designers, manufacturers and craftspeople who unveil their new season collections across fashion, jewellery, home and giftware at the annual expo, which also provides a particular emphasis on new products to market, providing retailers with opportunities to discover and stock up on the latest design-led products, many of which are unique to the show. Specialised trade buyers from across the world are drawn to Showcase each year, making the event not only a testament to the unique offering of Ireland’s vibrant design and craft sector, but an invaluable marketing and networking tool for the city, county and country’s creative industries.

IRISH food, drink and horticulture exports increased by 13% in 2017, to reach €12.6 billion for the first time. The figure increases to €13.5 billion when non-edible products, such as forestry, are included. Speaking at the launch of Bord Bia’s Export Performance and Prospects 2017-2018 report, Michael Creed – the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine – said: “Bord Bia’s report provides valuable insights into the sectors and markets behind the very welcome 13% increase in the value of food and drinks exports to €12.6 billion. “Industry, in line with my department’s market prioritisation strategy, is continuing to diversify, with exports to international markets reaching €4 billion for the first time. “Trade with the UK, which remains our most valuable market, has grown in overall terms, despite the difficulty presented by Brexit and a weaker Sterling.” According to the Bord Bia report, last year’s export perfor-

Graphic: Bord Bia

mance was driven by a surge in dairy exports to more than €4 billion (+19%). Sales of Irish beef are up 5%, which represents a fifth of all exports, at almost €2.5 billion. Notable growth was also recorded for prepared foods (+17% to €2.2 billion) and beverages (+8% to €1.5 billion). Bord Bia’s chief executive, Tara McCarthy, said: “In terms of yearly growth rates, the dairy sec-

tor grew by almost 20% to reach €4.02 billion, confirming its position as the number-one exporting sector. “Within the dairy sector, the value of Ireland’s butter exports rose by a remarkable 60% this year alone, to reach €879 million.” On a more cautionary note, McCarthy also highlighted the currency risk that remains for all sectors, especially those such

as horticulture and prepared consumer foods that are hugely dependent on the UK market. She said: “Sterling volatility, combined with slower economic growth, food inflation and lower wage forecasts, will put further pressure on the UK market as an export destination. “These prospects provide an additional incentive for Irish exporters to explore new markets within the EU26 and beyond.”

RESEARCH | INNOVATIVE INTERNATIONAL PROJECT INSTIGATED

UCD announces €4m AI centre collaboration with Samsung

THE Insight Centre for Data Analytics at UCD has announced the launch of a new and collaborative €4 million artificial intelligence research project with Samsung Electronics Co Ltd, the multinational electronics

company headquartered in South Korea. The project is a joint initiative between researchers at UCD, NUI Galway, UCC, DCU, and other partner institutions. T h e € 75 m i l l i o n Research Centre is fund-

ed by Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) and a wide range of industry partners. The collaborative AI research project will leverage deep data science and AI expertise at the centre to help enable Samsung to

create ‘smarter’ products and more personalised experiences tailored for its customers and users. A key feature of this collaborative project will be the transfer of research skills between staff at Samsung and UCD.

In addition, there will be career placement opportunities at Samsung’s research facilities in the UK and in South Korea for the pool of computer and data science students from the centre.

DUBLINLIFE

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GAZETTE

18 January 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 13

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

APPEAL: DUBS ASKED TO NOMINATE SOMEONE EXTRAORDINARY FOR PEOPLE OF THE YEAR AWARD

Help celebrate unsung heroes  MARK O’BRIEN DO YOU know someone who does extraordinary things that really make a difference to their family, friends, neighbours, work colleagues or local community? This is your chance to have their unsung heroism acknowledged live on TV, thanks to The People of the Year Awards. Held in partnership with Today with Sean O’Rourke on RTE Radio 1, the awards organisers

are looking out for local heroes and ordinary people who do extraordinary things in Dublin. The team behind Sean’s show are calling out to Dubliners to nominate their heroic partners, friends, parents, neighbours and co-workers that deserve some national recognition. The winner will be honoured at the 43rd People of the Year Awards, organised by Rehab Group, which will be held on March 3.

Sean said: “Some of the most extraordinary people I have interviewed over the years are the unsung, everyday heroes. “So, if you know someone you’d like to nominate, please nominate them today.” Ireland’s ‘Ever yday Hero’ can be of any age, from any walk of life and from any part of Ireland but there is just one criterion – they must be really special to be considered. They can be the essence of Dublin’s community

spirit, or they could be the person who puts everyone else before themselves and never asks for thanks. All the nominations will be considered by the adjudication panel and will be announced live on the People of the Year Awards TV programme on RTE One on Saturday, March 3. Mo Flynn, chief executive of Rehab Group, said: “We have vital and important services for people with disabilities around

the country, including Dublin, and we see heroes in communities every day. “Ever ybody knows someone who is always doing something for others. These people often go unrewarded and unrecognised. “This is a chance to say thank-you to them in a unique way, so please nominate your Everyday Hero for a People of the Year Award.” To nominate your everyday hero, log on to peopleoftheyear.com.

Sean O’Rourke gets some enthusiastic help to launch The People of the Year Awards from ‘nurse’ Elianna Martin, ‘garda’ Rian Duane, ‘fireman’ Alex O’Reillyhall, and ‘soldier’ Leah Murray. Picture: Robbie Reynolds

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14 DUBLIN GAZETTE 18 January 2018

DUBLINLIFE

DIARY

COMPETITION: USE A SPLIT SECOND (AND JUST A FEW MOMENTS LATER) TO SUBMIT A PRIZEWINNING PIC

Snap to it if you think you’ve got a perfect photo for top contest DUBS who think they have the perfect pic are invited to submit their super snap for a new Instagram competition. Huawei’s now annual The Snapys have been reimagined as Huawei Creatives, with this year’s competition offering the overall winner a chance to attend an exclusive trip to South by Southwest – a world-renowned creative festival – in Austin, America this March. Last year’s Snapys reached more than three million interactions, with this year’s competition adding two new awards: The People’s Choice, and The Judge’s Choice. The initial 20

shortlisted in each of 13 categories will be narrowed down to a category winner who will receive a Huawei Mate 10 Pro phone, while an overall winner will then be chosen by an international judging panel. To enter, all you have to do is upload your image using #huaweicreatives and the relevant category hashtag, with the full listings and fur ther information available at www.huaweicreatives.ie.

ISPCC CHILDLINE SEEKS VOLUNTEERS IRELAND’S only 24-hour listening ser vice for children, ISPCC Childline, is now recr uiting

volunteers in Dublin. An information evening for prospective volunteers will take place at the Dublin offices of the ISPCC (at No 30 Baggot Street Lower), at 6.30pm this evening, Thursday, January 18. Ever y year, more than 400,000 calls are made to Childline’s phoneline, as well as live text and webchat services. Volunteers who help Childline listen to children do not need any prior qualifications. They receive comprehensive, ongoing, training and support before they take their first call and for the duration of their time as a Childline

volunteer. For further information on becoming a Childline volunteer, see ispcc.ie/ volunteer, email Jennifer. Farrelly@ispcc.ie, or call the Dublin office at 01 234 2046.

FREE LECTURES ON MENTAL HEALTH ISUES AWARE, the national organisation providing education and information around depression, bipolar disorder and moodrelated conditions, has announced the next three talks to take place as part of its lecture series. The topics covered will be Medicine and My Mental Health, Understanding and Managing Anxiety,

A shot by previous Huawei Snapys winner, Liz Stowe, who was sent to Shenzhen last January to capture nine images over a week. This year’s Snapys winner could be sent to Austin, while category winners will receive a top of the range phone.

and Gambling Addiction in Ireland: Current Status and Future Directions. The lectures cover mental health-related topics including depression, bipolar disorder, stress and mood disorders. All lectures are open to the public, are free of charge, and can also be watched back at aware.ie. The Aware Lecture Series is held on the second Wednesday of each month at 7.30pm in the lecture theatre, Swift Centre, St Patrick’s Hospital, James’ St, Dublin 8.

PUBLIC TO HAVE SAY IN XPOSE AWARDS

XPOSE has teamed up with Benefit Cosmetics to host the first ever Xpose Benefit Awards, which will honour the best of talent across the entertainment, fashion and beauty industries. The categories include Best Beauty Influencer, Best Session Make-Up Artist, Best Male T V Star, Best Female TV Star, Best Fashion Stylist, Best Wave Maker, Best Irish Designer, Best High Street Range, Best Male Star of the Big Screen, Best Female Star of the Big Screen, and Best Session Hairstylist. Judges include Xpose producer Debbie

O’Donnell; Lou Bennett, head of marketing, Benefit Cosmetics; presenter Darren Kennedy; photographer Barry McCall; presenter Sean Munsanje; former editor in chief of Image Magazine, Melanie Morris, and Irish Independent fashion editor Bairbre Power The nominees include Amanda Byram, Amy Huberman, Graham Norton, Simone Rocha, Paul Costelloe, Pippa O’Connor, Michael Fassbender, Ruth Negga and Saoirse Ronan. The public can vote for their favourite nominee in each category via Xpose. ie. The winners will be announced on February 1.

18 January 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 15

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16 DUBLIN GAZETTE 18 January 2018

DUBLINLIFE

PUZZLE PAGE SUDOKU - EAZY

CODEWORDS

SUDOKU RULES

Codewords are like crossword puzzles - but have no clues! Instead, every letter of the alphabet has been replaced by a number, the same number representing the same letter throughout the puzzle. All you have to do is decide which letter is represented by which number! To start you off, we reveal the codes for two or three letters. As you find letters, enter them in the key and into the grid. Cross off the letters in the A to Z list.

To complete Sudoku, fill the board by entering numbers 1 to 9 such that each row, column and 3x3 box contains every number uniquely.

SUDOKU - TOUGH

WORD SEARCH Find the following hidden words background blur close up contrast depth exposure film flash focus lens model negative print push processing shoot shutter tint trigger tripod viewfinder zoom

DONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T FORGET TO CHECK NEXT WEEK FOR THE SOLUTIONS TO THIS WEEK

18 January 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 17

Out and About

Siobhan Trodd and Orna O’Donoghue

Roisin Flannery

Hannah Hillyer

Laura Woods with Sarah Reynolds. Pictures: Brian McEvoy Photography

An organised book launch L Jana Stevenson

Fiona Bury and Caitriona Fleming

AURA Woods officially launched Ireland’s leading professional Organiser, Sarah Reynolds new book Organised: Simpleways to declutter your house, your schedule and your mind at Hodges Figgis Bookshop on Dublin’s Dawson Street last week. Organised, which is Sarah’s first book, centers around the old adage that life would run more smoothly if your home was organised.

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18 DUBLIN GAZETTE 18 January 2018

DUBLINLIFE

FEATURE

CHARITY: 500 VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO HELP FUNDRAISE FOR A SPECIAL DAY

We wish you’ll help to support sick kids  STAFF REPORTER

MAKE-A-WISH, the international children’s charity founded in the US in 1980, is on the look-out for 500 local volunteers in Dublin to help make its upcoming Wish Day the best one yet. Since arriving in Ireland in 1992, Make-AWish has granted wishes for more than 2,000 brave children, with the granted wishes providing some magic for the child, providing respite from their normal routines of hospitals, doctors and treatment. Now, the charity is looking out for 500 Dublin volunteers to help Wish Day on Friday, March 9, a great success. As Make-A-Wish Ireland’s flagship fundraising day, the day has grown and grown since starting in 2013, thanks to the Make-A-Wish volunteers and the support of the general public. Last year’s event raised more than €120,000 and was vital in enabling the

charity to grant 221 wishes in 2017 – more than in any previous year. Volunteers are asked to give just a few hours of their time to sell wristbands in their local supermarket or shopping centre, helping to raise much-needed funds for the charity. This will enable MakeA-Wish Ireland to fulfil its simple aim – to grant the wishes of children aged between 3-17 who are living with life-threatening medical conditions, and enriching the human experience with hope, strength and joy. Since 1992, Make-AWish Ireland has granted wishes for more than 2,000 brave children across the country, while last year in Dublin alone the charity made wishes come true for 46 children living with illnesses such as cancer, cystic fibrosis and Duchenne muscular dystrophy. One such Dublin child whose wishes came true include nine-yearold Daniel Barrett from

Walkinstown, who is living with a brain tumour. Make-A-Wish granted Daniel’s wish to visit NASA by organising a truly magical visit for him and his family to the Johnson Space Centre in Texas. Daniel’s life-changing visit included meeting real-life astronauts and even walking on NASA’s replica of the International Space Station. The family had VIP access to the old mission control room, and witnessed astronauts training underwater. D a n i e l ’ s m o t h e r, Orlagh, said that the family will never forget the trip and that “it was a real, once-in-a-lifetime experience!” Making wishes come true can have a hugely positive impact on a child and their families, giving strength, hope and joy. Research shows children who have wishes granted are more likely to build the physical and emotional strength they need to fight a serious illness.

Walkinstown lad Daniel Barrett, who is living with a brain tumour, had his wish come true with a dream trip for him and his family to the Johnson Space Centre in Texas, thanks to Make-A-Wish Ireland

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

‘Research shows children who have wishes granted are more likely to build the physical and emotional strength they need to fight a serious illness’ ---------------------------------------------------------

This improves their quality of life and produces better health outcomes. However, Make-AWish does not receive any government funding and is solely dependent on the generosity of the general public to continue granting wishes to children. According to Make-A-

Wish Ireland, children’s wishes can range from being a princess for the day or meeting their hero, to going on a once-in-alifetime family holiday. Wherever possible, the child’s family is invited to share in the wish experience, creating lasting memories for all the fam-

ily, the wider local community and all of those involved in granting the wish. Calling on Dubs to volunteer for the day, Make-A-Wish Ireland’s chief executive, Susan O’Dwyer, said: “Children with life-threatening illnesses need your help – your precious gift of time this Wish Day will enable us to make wishes come true for seriously ill children when they most need strength, hope and joy. “We have granted almost 2,200 wishes for Irish children, which would not be possible without the support of the

Irish public. “A few hours from the people of Dublin on Friday, March 9 to help raise valuable funds will make wishes come true for more children in your community.” On Wish Day, Friday, March 9, the Make-AWish volunteers will be selling wristbands and transfers, costing €2 each, at locations all across Dublin, with 100% of proceeds going to grant wishes for children living with life-threatening illnesses. To volunteer, see www. m a ke aw i s h . i e / w i s h day, or contact Daragh at 01 205 2011, or email daragh@makeawish.ie.

18 January 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 19

STILLORGAN COFE P21

ITB P22

ASDFSDAF P27 ITT P24

LEARNINGCURVE Whether you’re a first-time student or want to boost your existing qualifications, there’s a lot to learn about college life – luckily, Dublin Gazette has everything you need to know

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GAZETTE

DFEI P20

Key CAO dates to note... Fee Dates Early online application (discounted)

€30 January 20, 5:15pm

Normal online application

€45 February 1, 5:15pm

Late online application – restrictions apply

€60 May 1, 5:15pm

Change of Mind – restrictions apply

Nil

Exceptional online late application

€60 July 22, 5:15pm

July 1, 5:15pm

Take the time with your CAO choices – but don’t panic if they don’t work out

NEXT STEPS

We have info on some of the best colleges to help you keep learning SEE INSIDE

WITH time running out for students looking to apply for a college place or university course through the CAO application process, Dublin Gazette’s Education Supplement provides comprehensive information for people looking to enter third level education in 2018. This is one of the most important decisions that you are likely to make in your life, to date, so it is of utmost importance that you are as fully informed before you choose what college and courses you wish to take. There are many pitfalls associated with going to college and we hope to smooth the way for you. You will find information about open days and a wide range of courses available. We also advise and inform students about how to navigate the choppy waters of applying for CAO and how it works – not forgetting the all-important information on dates and fees, as they set their sights on a third-level course that could shape their lives for the next few years and beyond. However, not everyone will end up with the Leaving Cert results required to book a place in their chosen course, and it’s important that those unfortunate to lose out don’t despair. You will also learn about PLC courses and the exciting news that Computer Science has now been added to the Leaving Certificate curriculum. There are also tips for people applying for jobs and the problems you are likely to encounter along the way. Wishing you all the very best of luck, whatever path you end up on!

18 January 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21

LEARNINGCURVE

A real buzz about further education in Dun Laoghaire

YOU may not immediately notice the DFEi building on Cumberland Street in Dun Laoghaire because it is situated in the quiet end of the town. However, there’s a completely different feeling

once you pass through its automatic doors – a feeling of buzzing energy, with students going to and fro as they attend the DFEi’s classes. With learners of all ages and from diverse back-

grounds drawn together, DFEi’s students all seem to be on a personal mission, with a dizzying range of courses to suit all interests. As just some examples, would-be media students

have everything from a sound studio for recording to DFEi’s very own radio studio, The Wave (at 107.8fm) to get involved with, alongside contemporary journalism studies. Others may be learning

FUNDING

€27.5m boost for education THE Government’s

announcement of a €47.5 million increase in funding for the higher and further education sector in Budget 2018 will also make €310 million available by 2021 to address the infrastructure needs of the sector. With its strong record in academic excellence coupled with a student-focused approach to education, see for yourself why DFEi in Dun Laoghaire has established itself as a superb centre of learning

in the lab, with everything from dissections to veterinary assistance skills to get to grips with. Meanwhile, business learners can get to grips with everything from computerised payroll to databases, with office administration learners acquiring the languages of medicine and the law. These are just a few examples of DFEi’s wide range of courses, with it catering for the creative and the practical alike with a true commitment to meeting its learners’ needs. W hether hands-on learning in furniture making and restoration, and musical instrument making and repair demand the tools of the trade, or more people-focused studies for the security learners, DFEi’s broad range of courses with a common

mental skills and survival techniques that will put them on the ladder to a third level qualification in their chosen area. As every student doesn’t learn in the same way or at the same pace, if you have particular learning support requirements, they will be met at DFEi. As you’d expect, DFEi’s courses are also designed to meet current industry standards, adding another impressive reason to study there. To find out more, come along to DFEi’s upcoming information day on Wednesday, January 24, from 10am – 4pm. The DFEi will be only too happy to offer advice and guidance about the courses on offer, as well as giving you the chance to view the facilities, and get a feel for its inclusive educational environment.

Computer Science set to be added to the Leaving Cert STUDENTS from 40 schools will be first to start

tion of problems, and how computing technology

studying Leaving Certificate Computer Science

impacts the world around us. Announcing the new subject, Minister for Edu-

The introduction of Computer Science as a

cation Richard Bruton said: “The introduction of

Leaving Certificate subject is part of the Gov-

this new subject will teach our young people flex-

ernment’s overall commitment to embed digital

ible, solution-orientated thinking.

technology in teaching and learning.

“It will teach them to be creative, adaptable

The announcement is one of a range of that

learners. It will increase the number of students

have been outlined in the STEM (Science, Tech-

taking up computing and STEM courses and

nology, Engineering and Maths) strategy and

apprenticeships after school, leading to a highly-

Action Plan for Education, which aims to make

skilled workforce.

Ireland the best education and training service in Europe by 2026. The move will focus on how programming and computational thinking can be applied to the solu-

Reform, Paschal Donohoe, said “continuing investment

goal of helping everyone achieve their purpose is all in a day’s work. Something else helps DFEi to really stand out – the connection between its teachers and learners, with one-to-one conversation and individual engagement a core part of the DFEi experience. Whether offering reassurance, explanation or clarification, news about work experience or progression with an assignment, its teachers are truly committed to helping each and every learner. If, for whatever reason, you do not get enough points for your chosen third level course, consider spending a year in DFEi – it’s a tried and tested way to get a place in college through its many defined progression routes. Learners are taught in small classes the funda-

from this September.

Minister for Finance and Public Expenditure and

“I’m delighted we were able to bring the introduction of this subject forward to this year as I think it is an important and timely addition to our education system.”

in education remains a priority for this government”, adding that the sector was vital for the Irish economy. A decision is still to be made on a new higher education funding model, following a €36.5 million increase in funding to the sector in the previous budget.

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20 DUBLIN GAZETTE 18 January 2018

Stillorgan draws students in to prepare for the future STILLORGAN College of Further Education has been a specialist centre for further education/postLeaving Cert courses since 1986. During this time it has developed an enviable reputation for its delivery of further education programmes. The college offers a range of practical courses that develop the necessary skills for the workplace or to progress to further study in institutes of technology or universities. The college is innovative in providing courses that meet the current

needs of industry. One of its new courses is a Level 5 course in illustration and design. This exciting course introduces students to the wide-ranging discipline of illustration and helps them gain an improved understanding of the possibilities of image-making. A second new course for 2018/2019 is a Level 6 course in photography. This course builds on the long-established and successful Level 5 course in photography. Another recent addition to the list of courses is a Level 5 course in ani-

Stillorgan College of Further Education’s Level 5 course in animation is just one of the diverse range of creative courses giving it an impressive reputation

mation. This introductory course prepares students with little or no experience for a third-level course in animation production. With a dual focus on

drawing and computer skills, the course covers all the fundamental areas required for a successful portfolio submission. One of the longest

established courses in the college is the art foundation course. This course provides tuition in areas such as drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics and combined materials. The college also offers Level 5 and Level 6 course in multimedia and web development. Also on offer is a travel and tourism course with airline studies. This course prepares students for work in all areas of the travel industry. Courses in media production, journalism and Level 5 and 6 courses in computer skills for busi-

ness round off the extensive offering of courses in the college. The staff of the college have extensive industry experience in their respective fields and are dedicated to ensuring that, whether aiming to move to higher education or entering the employment market, students leave the college with every skill necessary for the future. For further information about the courses available in the college, see www.stillorgancollege. ie, or visit the college on Wednesday, January 24 for its information evening.

18 January 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 21

FUNDING

€27.5m boost for education THE Government’s

announcement of a €47.5 million increase in funding for the higher and further education sector in Budget 2018 will also make €310 million available by 2021 to address the infrastructure needs of the sector. Minister for Finance and Public Expenditure and Reform, Paschal Donohoe, said “continuing investment in education remains a priority for this government”, adding that the sector was vital for the Irish economy. A decision is still to be made on a new higher education funding model, following a €36.5 million increase in funding to the sector in the previous budget.

GAZETTE

LEARNINGCURVE

Stillorgan College of Further Education’s Level 5 course in animation is just one of the diverse range of creative courses giving it an impressive reputation

mation. This introductory course prepares students with little or no experience for a third-level course in animation production. With a dual focus on

drawing and computer skills, the course covers all the fundamental areas required for a successful portfolio submission. One of the longest

22 DUBLIN GAZETTE 18 January 2018

GAZETTE

LEARNINGCURVE See first-hand ITB’s superb course range ON MONDAY, January 29, the Institute of Technology Blanchardstown will host an online Q&A session aimed at persons applying for a course to the CAO this year. Taking place from 11am to noon, and again from 4.30pm to 5.30pm, this session is a great opportunity to get all your questions answered by an expert team from the institute’s admissions team. Simply log on to www.itb.ie/askitb to participate on the day. If you would like to see ITB’s state-of-the-art campus in person, an open evening takes place on Tuesday, April 17 from 5pm to 7pm. Academic staff and students from all courses will be present on the night to assist you with any ques-

The Institute of Technology Blanchardstown’s upcoming online Q&A session, and open evening later this year, are great ways to learn about its excellent courses

tions you may have about applying to college, and this event is highly recommended if you are unsure of what course to choose. The Institute of Technology Blanchardstown offers a wide variety of full-time and part-time

courses at undergraduate and postgraduate level. Programmes include Applied Social Studies, Business, Computing, Creative Digital Media, Engineering, Horticulture, Social and Community Development, Sports Management and

Early Childhood Care & Education. Applications for part-time courses will open in March. Recently, a brand-new programme, entitled “Learn & Work”, was launched. This innovative higher education model combines training along

with work placement and aims to provide jobseekers with an opportunity get the necessary training and experience to ready them for the workplace. Students on this course will be offered work placements in a variety of prestigious companies where they will be coached by industry experts. Two programmes are currently offered under the Learn & Work programme: • BSc in Process Instrumentation & Automation • Higher Certificate in Science in Computing in Networking technologies Applications for Learn & Work are made directly to ITB. For further info, please see www.itb.ie/ learnandwork. The institute would also like to remind all

CAO applicants of its “REACH2 access programme, which is currently open for applications. REACH is an admissions scheme which offers places on ITB’s courses on reduced points, to school leavers from socioeconomically disadvantaged backgrounds. Another scheme, entitled the “Sporting Prowess Programme”, is also open for applications. This programme is aimed at prospective students who display an outstanding sporting ability at a national or regional level, and offers an opportunity to participate on Sports Management & Coaching Courses on a reduced points basis. For further information, see www.itb.ie/cao.

PLCs offer a real route to success A NEW report carried out by the ESRI has highlighted the positive role played by the provision of PLC courses in Ireland. The PLC programme is the largest of the full time further education and training programmes with over 30,000 places and an investment of over €160 million each year. On average, PLC learners are 16% more likely to be in employment than if they had just entered the labour market straight after the Leaving Certificate. The report also highlights a number of challenges for policy development in the PLC sector, indicating a need for greater responsiveness of job-specific PLC courses to changing labour market conditions in terms of the types of courses offered and closer links with employers, as well as enhanced guidance for learners and extra training for teaching staff. Responding to the report, Minister for Education and Skills Richard Bruton said: “I am determined to increase the range and quality of the pathways for people to fulfil their career ambitions during

my time as Minister. “If we want to be the best in Europe, by 2026, we need to ensure that we provide many different opportunities for people to achieve their ambitions. “The report being published today confirms the positive role played by PLC provision. “On average PLC learners are 16% more likely to be in employment than if they had just entered the labour market straight after the Leaving Certificate.” Endorsing the plan, Minister for Skills, John Halligan said: “I am confident that the implementation of these recommendations will build on the success of the PLC programme and ensure we deliver high quality further education and training, supporting learners to achieve their progression and employment goals. “PLC has a strong regional and local footprint and will support balanced regional growth, as it is planned and delivered alongside other FET and higher education provision.” Speaking at the launch of the report,

CAREERS

Some top tips for everyone applying for a job WHETHER you’re looking to go straight into the workplace after finishing school, or if you’re looking to take the next step on your career, it’s vital that you prepare for the task ahead. Although finding that dream (or ‘just’ your next) job could seem like a daunting task, recruitment experts offer a number of simple, clear objectives to help get that job you’re looking for. Keep these next few points in mind, and you’ll be on your way ... 1. Pretty much everything and everyone is online now, so tailor your profile to meet current online standards and expectations. These days, many employers and potential recruiters will look to check a candidate’s online profile, especially if you’ve listed it for them. 2. If presenting a professional profile, such as on LinkedIn, ensure that it’s up to date and is also as accurate as possible.

Contacts 3. Don’t be afraid to turn to your existing contacts, and maintain an amicable, courteous relationship with them. Ex-colleagues, lecturers, and even your favourite teachers could all help you on the way, or down the road, and the vast majority will be delighted to help. 4. Last but not least, make your application relevant to the role itself and the company. Your one-size-fitsall CV and cover letter could be great ... if you just want a ‘McJob’. “PLC learners are 16% more likely to be in employment than if they had just entered the labour market straight after the Leaving Certificate”

However, virtually every employer or recruiter looks for, and expects, tangible

Paul O’Toole, CEO of SOLAS said: “The PLC programme is a hugely important part of the further education and training landscape.

“SOLAS welcomes today’s publication. The research has identified many benefits for the approximate 30,000 learners that do PLC coursers in Ireland each year.”

proof that you want that specific job in that company, so be clear without going overboard.

18 January 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 23

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LEARNINGCURVE

Face the future with IT Tallaght’s superb courses, facilities ITTALLAGHT offers prospective students a wide range of career-focused certificate, degree, masters and PhD programmes that will suit a variety of educational backgrounds and career aspirations. Courses have both a practical and professional emphasis; a studentsupportive environment; smaller class sizes, and excellent levels of lecturer access and support. The primary focus of all IT Tallaght courses is to prepare students for the

world of work. For instance, work placements and/or industry projects form a key part of most of ITT’s full-time courses, helping students to become workready, and begin their journey towards rewarding employment.

Open Evening There is an on-campus open evening from 5pm to 8pm on January 25. This event is suited to those who are considering in enrolling in full- or

part-time courses in 2018, where there will be course experts available to discuss the details of the programmes and answer any queries regarding courses, CAO applications, fees, grants, careers, etc.

Bus Service Two private bus routes; (A: Kildare town to ITT, serving Newbridge, Naas and Rathcoole, and B: Maynooth to ITT, serving Celbridge, Leixlip, Lucan, Griffeen, Ballyowen, Ronanstown/Fonthill)

allow students ease of access to and from the college. These bus ser vices reflect the growing popularity of ihe Institute in the areas of southwest Dublin, Kildare and west Wicklow.

Campus Development IT T has recently secured a multimillioneuro capital investment to deliver a significant part of its overall campus development plan. This announcement follows a rigorous competitive and prioritisation process managed by the Department of Education & Skills with the Higher Education Authority. The funding will provide state-of-the art facilities for a technical development centre (ie prac-

Not content to rest on its laurels, IT Tallaght is looking to the future, with plans to develop its range of impressive courses and facilities

tice-based learning facilities for Engineering and Science programmes); facilities for the Culinary Arts and Hospitality disciplines, including new classrooms and computer laboratories.

Creche In addition, ITT’s oncampus creche opened on January 8 under the new management of Orchard House Ltd, which will operate as Oakview Tallaght to manage on-site the Early Years facility for the next three years.

This appointment of a childcare provider ensures the facility continues to operate in accordance with national childcare requirements.

Technological University (TU) ITT, DIT and ITB have created the TU for Dublin Alliance, and are committed to jointly establishing a Technological University for Dublin in the very near future. Building on their respective histories and distinctive strengths, the

objective is to combine ideas and resources to create a world-renowned institution of higher learning, and collaborating with civic, academic and industry partners. T he Technological University will be developed on three physical campuses located at Tallaght, Grangegorman and Blanchardstown. For further information, see www.it-tallaght.ie/ fulltimecourses; www.ittallaght.ie/parttimecourses, and www.it-tallaght.ie/ bus-and-rail-routes.

Students face challenging times as they look for a new place to live – but it’s vital they make sure their new place is safe ANOTHER year, and another challenging time lies ahead for many students looking to find accomodation, as many have found leases expiring or the need to move home. While it’s understandable that many may leap at finding a home – any home – in the current housing crisis, it’s vital that you ensure your place is safe. The following tips may help to put your mind at rest – and keep you safe in the coming months ... 1. Check the electrics and appliances– With rented residential accommodation it is the Landlord’s responsibility to ensure that the electrical installation and appliances provided by the landlord are safe when the tenancy begins and are in proper working

order throughout the tenancy. 2. Look for damp – If your house smells musty or you see evidence of mould, find out how the landlord is planning to fix the problem in the long term as mould has several health risks. 3. Raise the alarm – It is the landlord’s duty to provide fire and carbon monoxide alarms, as well as fire extinguishers, but the tenants should always test alarms on a regular basis. 4. Furniture and fittings – Ask the landlord for a list of everything that is included and make note of any damage that is there before you move it. 5. Heating requirements – Does your house have oil or gas fired central heating? The Health & Safety Authority recommends

that all boilers should be serviced annually and tenants looking at an oil-fired property should ask for evidence of recent servicing. If you have concerns, ask for a CD/12 Landlord Oil Installation Check, which is carried out by an OFTEC-registered technician and will give you peace of mind. If the property has a gas boiler it must be checked by a qualified technician. 6. Note fire escapes – This is important particularly for apartment blocks but make sure they are secure from the outside to prevent unwanted visitors. 7. Secure your home – burglars target student areas because of lax security. Ask your landlord to fit key-operating locks on the windows and five-lever deadlocks on external doors.

18 January 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 25

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DUBLINLIFE

 JAMES HENDICOTT HAVING put aside his demons and tackled the dramas of recording an album that really didn’t go to plan, Paddy Hanna’s had a rocky road to his sophomore release, but he’s staring proudly over those roadblocks. Castleknock native Paddy Hanna has been in a fair few bands in his time, but over the last few years he’s been operating under his own moniker, drawing the crowds though the distinctive vocals of his leftfield indiepop ditties. A former core member of popular and borderline-defunct DIY collective Popical Island and frontman for one of their key acts, Grand Pocket Orchestra, Hanna released his debut album ‘Leafy Stiletto’ in 2014. Years later, his return with his latest ‘Frankly, I Mutate’ might be greatly delayed, but has already drawn the attention of the likes of NME and Stereogum through its early singles. His style is one of emotive vocals, gorgeous yet jarring instrumentals and slowbuilding, dramatic peaks. It’s been a difficult road for Hanna, though, who’s never been afraid to speak his mind on the problems musicians face. “Things are totally different this time,” he tells us. “I’ve had line up changes and life changes. I’ve tackled some mental health issues; spent some time on finding things that work. I started working on this album when I went onto medication. I was looking at things with a new clarity.” Things were to go a little haywire, though, with the recording process brutally interrupted, and the album release - originally planned for last year - heavily delayed. “I lost my manager half way through the two weeks in the studio,” Hanna recalls. “It was strange, as he’d introduced me to Daniel [Fox, the producer who was to be heavy influence on the album’s style], and really set this project in motion. “The wall of sound affect Daniel introduced is an essential element on the new album. It was our project, in many ways, but my old manager decided half way through that he didn’t want to carry on. It’s a funny one. You’ll hear it on the album. Half the tracks are me excited about being back in the studio, and have that feel to them. The other half are very different. After the manager left there was some drinking and some really wasted vocal takes. I guess the contrast is part of the mystique of it.” Astonishingly, the studio was to close shortly after Hanna’s recording, too, meaning a number of tweaks to the record had to be done elsewhere, further complicating the process by the requirement for a new studio a fresh set up. Eventually, the seasoned performer - at something of a loose end - hooked up with Galway music legend and Roisin Dubh main man Gugai, who will release ‘Frankly, I Mutate’ on his Strange Brew label.

TAKE OUT THE CALLIPERS

MUSIC

the thick-skinned return of Paddy Hanna

Photos: Stephen White

After such a shaky process, though, there’s no question the early signs are good. “I guess the new stuff has got more attention than previous singles,” Hanna admitted. “I’m not sure if it’s because it’s better material, or because it’s building on my previous stuff.” That process has been far from smooth sailing, however. “You have to come through some difficult stuff as any kind of musician or artist. So many people just leave it behind,” Hanna points out. “It’s financially difficult, and you just have to come through so much soul-destroying waiting and sheer indifference. You have to just keep going until you get a second skin. Sometimes I just want to tell people to keep going, to wait and to grow those callipers a little bit., that they’ll get there.” Popical Island, the popular collective of friends that brought both Hanna and some of the Dublin indie scene’s most compelling contemporaries into the local music limelight, is sadly all but defunct today. Hanna’s been somewhat

critical of the group in the past, but insists his complaints came from a good place. “I love those guys. We drifted together as bordering on inseparable friends, and I guess it drifted apart in a similar way. It was very difficult to push yourself there, and I felt like they should have wanted more,” Hanna explains. “I regret saying some of the things I did about them, I was quite critical in interviews, and I think it upset some of them. But it came from a place of love. L o v e and

anger are very close together. It’s not gone, but it’ll certainly be quiet for some time.” As for reaching that much-desired success? “I have my yardstick,” Hanna tells us. “It’s to headline a certain venue of a certain size. I don’t want to say where, but I haven’t got there yet. Until I get there, it’ll be about pushing hard, because that’s what you have to do.” Paddy Hanna’s second solo album ‘Frankly, I Mutute’ is out on March 2.

18 January 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 27

GAZETTE

LETS GO OUT MUSIC

PICK OF THE WEEK THE KOOKS

@ THE OLYMPIA THEATRE ENGLISH pop rock band The Kooks bring their ‘Best Of’ tour to The Olympia Theatre on January 18, 19 and 20 2018. Tickets priced from €40.05 including booking fee and €1 restoration levy.

BEST OF THE REST JANUARY 18 (Thursday) Ones to Watch - Upcoming music festival @ Whelan’s, €5 Whelan’s annual January showcase aims to bring together a host of local musical newcomers to showcase their craft across several stages. A bargain chance to see future stars, it’s €5 per evening, or €10 for all four nights (Thursday to Sunday). Check Whelan’s social media for the (often lateannounced) acts and timetable breakdown.

Three Trapped Tigers @ The Bowery, €20 Escape the Fate + Set to Stun + Shields UK @ Voodoo Lounge, €20

Michael Buckley’s Dublin Standard Time @ Bruxelles, €10 JANUARY 19 (Friday) Little Green Cars @ Pavilion Theatre, €26 With beautiful harmonies about life and love, Little Green Cars are a unheralded gem of Irish music just waiting to be uncovered. Expect beautiful vocals, loud-quiet melodrama and an understated cool.

The Kooks @ The Olympia Theatre, €40-45 Ones to Watch - Upcoming music festival @ Whelan’s, €5 Robotrock @ The Grand Social Davina and the Messengers @ The Button Factory, free

JANUARY 20 (Saturday) Cloud Castle Lake @ Bellobar, €14 Chilled and understated, Cloud Castle Lake play with tones and understated complexity on their sophisticated fuzzy indie tracks. Think intricate, quietly memorable post-rock. Ones to Watch - Upcoming music festival @ Whelan’s, €5 Little Green Cars @ Pavilion Theatre, €26 The Kooks @ The Olympia Theatre, €40-45 The Kahoots @ The Button Factory, free JANUARY 21 (Sunday) August Alsina + Tone Stith @ The Olympia Theatre, €28 Ones to Watch - Upcoming music festival @ Whelan’s, €5

Mary Coughlan @ Vicar Street, €33 JANUARY 23 (Tuesday) Lau @ Whelan’s, €20 The Ruby Sessions @ Doyles, €6 JANUARY 24 (Wednesday) Wallis Bird @ Whelan’s, €22 Wallis Bird’s relocation to Germany was a huge loss to Irish music - she’s a wonderful live musician who used to pop up effervescently all over the city. Fortunately she’s regularly back, and her jubilant live show of leftfield acoustic pop is unmissable and wonderful.

Larry Campbell and Teresa Williams @ Upstairs at Whelan’s, €16.50

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28 DUBLIN GAZETTE 18 January 2018

DUBLINLIFE

CINEMA ReelReviews

THE POST

A press worth opening SET in a time when almost everybody still bought newspapers and ‘fake news’ wasn’t yet a widespread denial of reality, The Post (Cert 12A, 115 mins) is director Spielberg’s love letter to journalistic integrity. Stars Tom Hanks and Meryl Streep excel as The Washington Post’s editor and publisher respectively, as they mull over tough choices in what they can can – and should – publish in the paper.

Playing a grieving but determined mum seeking justive over her murdered daughter, Frances McDormand yet again steals the show with her tough but very human character. McDormand’s intensity anchors the film, creating someone who’s not always likeable, but always worth rooting for.

THREE BILLBOARDS OUTSIDE EBBING, MISSOURI: RAW, INTENSE ROLES IMPRESS

A three-mendous film

FRANCES McDormand is a force to be reckoned with in Martin McDonagh’s intimate epic, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri (Cert 15A, 115 mins). The filmmaker’s third feature-length outing, Three Billboards is a film mired in all sorts of tragedy, delving into characters as they grieve over the loss of a loved one, and others as they come to terms with their own approaching demise. Yet from all this pain, McDonagh finds a way to inspire joy, provoke lasting contemplation and deliver effortless laughs with razor-sharp wit and deep, dark humour. Sick of the local law enforcement’s lacklustre efforts in hunting down her daughter’s murderer, Mildred Hayes (McDormand) rents out three billboards on the outskirts of town, plastering them with

 MARTIN MACNAMARA

a damning message aimed squarely at the town’s sheriff, William Willoughby ( Woody Harrelson). More so than the sheriff himself, Mildred’s controversial act is a smack in the face to his secondin-command, Officer Dixon (Sam Rockwell) – a violent drunk at whom accusations of racism are frequently levelled. Though intended to light a fire under the town’s lawmen, Mildred’s act of defiance sends shockwaves throughout Ebbing, revealing its inhabitants at their best, their repugnant worst and their most devastatingly human. Crafted with a precision

honed over two solid directorial efforts, an Oscar-winning short and a celebrated playwriting career, McDonagh’s tightly woven narrative catches us off guard time after time, like an unpredictable series of devious chess moves. Ev e r y s u r e f o o t e d dramatic step, insignificant as some may feel, has a part to play in Three Billboards. This is masterful filmmaking: heartbreaking and emotional, but never sentimental; leisurely paced but never sluggish; didactic and intensely thought-provoking, but never heavy-handed. Each player in this expansive cast turns in a performance that will likely sit at the critical zenith of their filmographies for years to

Co-star Woody Harrelson has a surprisingly affecting role as an ‘inept’ sheriff

come. While the ostensible adversary from word one (if Mildred’s billboards are to be taken at face v a l u e ) H a r r e l s o n ’s Sheriff Willoughby is perhaps the story’s most compassionate figure – an instigator of certain acts both calculated and considerate; acts that push the narrative in directions we never expect. Rockwell’s Officer Dixon is drunken, violent and erratic – an unstable buffoon and a seeming bigot. And yet, coupled with McDonagh’s deft, authentic approach to crafting his

characters, Rockwell’s Golden Globe-winning performance moulds D i xo n ’s d e s p i c a b l e presence into something genuinely human; against all odds, we find ourselves quietly rooting for this idiot. Ultimately, however, Three Billboards is all about Mildred – all about Francis McDormand’s powerful, tragic and inspiring performance. T here’s something almost Terminator-like about Mildred’s intensity, her perseverance through grief and unquenchable thirst for justice. L i ke t h e b e s t dramatic turns, we know instinctively that no one else could play Mildred and, accordingly, McDormand gives us one of the year’s finest performances. As with McDonagh’s Irish-set

plays, Three Billboards Outside of Ebbing, Missouri exists in a kind of imagined America, somewhere between reality and what an outsider perceives looking in. Consequently, unbound to questions of authenticity, his story manages to say more about modern America than any exercise in precise realism ever could. From the offset, we’re never sure where Three Billboards will end up. This is a story laden with twists; twists both in narrative and our own perception, twists that provoke a change in our outlook on life and, as only the greatest films do, provoke a change in us on a fundamental level, leaving us a different person to the one that entered the cinema. These day, few films hold that power.

Verdict: 10/10

THE LAST JEDI

Still a Forceful franchise MARK Hamill excels as an older, jaded Luke Skywalker in The Last Jedi (Cert 12A, 155 mins) – just one of several good points about the latest Star Wars film. Although it’s not as focused and tightly edited as its predecessor, there’s something spinetingling about seeing the late Carrie Fisher (as General Leia) in her final film. Oh, and our own Skellig Islands look great as Luke’s home, too!

JUMANJI

A jungle-icious update NOT quite a reboot of the classic Robin Williams film, but more of a reimagining drawing inspiration from it, Jumanji (Cert 12A, 119 mins) turns out to be a surprisingly fun romp through the Jumanji universe. Again taking a core premise of kids getting sucked into a game, some older teens find themselves trapped in their gaming alter egos, and forced to survive in the Jumanji jungle world.

18 January 2018 DUBLIN GAZETTE 29

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TRAVEL Palacio Estoril Sports &

Just the sight of

Performance, Portugal

Amanpuri Awareness Immersion’s pool in Thailand is relaxing

The Retreat Costa Rica Yoga, Costa Rica

Ayii Anargyri Healing, Cyprus

WELLNESS: TREAT YOUR BODY AND MIND TO THE INVIGORATING BREAK YOU DESERVE

Make your new year plans a glorious, relaxing reality  SYLVIA POWNALL Travel Editor

HOW many times have you heard the phrase, “New Year, New You”? “More than one too many” is the probable answer. Nonetheless, with the focus firmly on health, fitness and well-being, one of your resolutions could be a health or fitness holiday – combining a love of travel with other positive habits. Here are just a few recommendations, courtesy of the experts at Health & Fitness Travel ...

The Sports Performance Break – Palacio Estoril Sports & Performance, Portugal The five-star resort Palacio Estoril on the sunny coast of Cascais offers spor ts enthusiasts an opportunity

to overcome physical and mental barricades, enhancing performance and refining skill. Tr e a t m e n t s i n cl u d e physiotherapy and Chinese medicine to give guests improved posture and wellbeing. The programme also focuses on nutritional performance enhancement, p r ov i d i n g a l l t h e t o o l s necessary to achieve athletic goals.

The Luxury Beach Spa Break – Amanpuri Awareness Immersion, Thailand Amanpuri is hidden amidst palm-fringed, white sand beaches, and architecture inspired by ancient Ay utthayan culture and oozes timeless luxury. The awareness immersion programme, guided by a

former Buddhist monk, is a meditative experience encouraging the renewal of internal focus, synchronising the mind, body and soul. Indulgent spa treatments (such a s cra nia l sa cra l therapy) complement the programme, along with unrivalled nutritional support.

The Yoga Trip – The Retreat Costa Rica Yoga, Costa Rica The Retreat is a Costa R ican haven set among quartz mountains and lush vegetation. Master the asanas and find inner peace with daily private and group yoga practices. For beginners and advanced yogis alike, a week of seclusion and serenity will be beneficial both physically and mentally, improving f lexibility, strength, and

balance, as well as emotional clarity and stress. This healthy yoga escape also includes a hike, wellness workshops, a healing massage and a trip to a local farmers’ market.

The Mediterranean Healthy Escape – Ayii Anargyri Healing, Cyprus A boutique hotel amid a valley of mature trees in the village of Miliou, Cyprus, Ayii Anargyri promotes an idyllic location for a healthy healing escape. Restore well-being as you harness the time-tested, natural healing powers of the area’s mineral-rich waters. Find profound calmness and tranquility through hydrotherapy treatments such as underwater massage, and treat ailments in the phlebology, kinesiotherapy,

and rheumatology pools. The healing waters are also utilised in spa therapies such as the indulgent mud therapy cocoons and massages.

The Safari and Yoga Break – Karkloof Safari & Yoga, South Africa Combining passions for yoga and nature, this takes you to one of the most exceptional and unspoilt areas of South Africa and i n c o r p o r a t e s t wo g a m e drives. With daily yoga classes, mountain biking, fishing, and guided hikes, finding your connection with nature and developing inner peace has never come more naturally.

The Trip of a Lifetime – Ultimate Around the World One-Year Wellness Trip This is an unbeatable opportunity, both in terms of experience and sheer luxury. Enjoy yoga on private island ‘parrot cay’ one week, then scuba diving in The Great Barrier Reef the next. Other highlights include ayurvedic therapy in India, hiking in Utah and a guided tour of Istanbul’s architecture. With more than 20 stops on this year-long voyage, you will be both vastly cultured and a master of your own health and fitness. At €156k per person, however, you might want to check your Lotto ticket first ...

Some flights can be arranged from Dublin depending on the destination, others depart from London. For advice, further guidance and booking, see www healthandfitnesstravel. com, or telehone 0044 203 397 8891.

30 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 18 January 2018

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SPORT

FastSport MUCKROSS AND ANVILLE ADVANCE: MUCKROSS Park and Mount Anville will contest the Leinster schoolgirls Senior Premier League hockey semi-finals on January 23 following victories last Friday over Wesley College and St Andrew’s. Muckross won through in a shootout after normal time had ended 2-2. They had led 2-0 via Isabelle Maleady and Louise McGrane before Wesley stormed back through Lynne Pomeroy and Aisling Ellis. But the Donnybrook school prevailed in the eighth round of the shootout to advance. In the second semi-final, Natasha Twomey scored twice for Mount Anville in addition to one from Grace Keane to see them win out 3-1 against St Andrew’s for whom Robyn Lewis had given a lifeline with 20 minutes to go.

BASKETBALL: UCD MARIAN SEE OFF TEMPLEOGUE BY A MASSIVE 19 POINTS

Liapakis underplays victory in cup final dress rehearsal

 KARL GRAHAM sport@dublingazette.com

UCD MARIAN maintained their lead at the top of the Men’s Super League following an 85-66 point win over Black Amber Templeogue at Belfield last weekend, while Pyrobel Killester racked up the scores to remain on the heels of their Dublin rivals. The win sees them stay top ahead of Garveys Tralee Warriors on points difference but with two games in hand, and three points clear of Killester in third with one game in hand. Dan James, Barry Drumm and Mike Garrow all impressed in front of the hoop to give UCD a 10-point lead going into the half-time break. The second half was even more comfortable for the home team as they kept the score board ticking over nicely to secure their eleventh league win of the campaign. Speaking after the game, UCD manager Ioannis Liapakis spoke about the overriding feeling he experienced after the victory, with a number of big games for his side during

Killester bounced back from last week’s defeat to see off KUBS. Picture: Martin Doherty

the month of January. “Relief because af ter a huge weekend last week, it is always difficult in the next game even if you play against one of the league’s top teams,” Liapakis said afterwards. “I think we did a great job defensively, which is natural for us. That helped us to win

the game by this score.” The two teams will meet again at the National Basketball Arena in a few weeks time when they descend on Tallaght to determine who will be crowned this year’s Hula Hoops National Cup champions. However, with a league fix-

ture still to contest between now and then, Lapiakis is looking no further than the next game. “This game is history now. The only thing we have in our heads right now is the next ‘final’ down in Maree. The past week, we didn’t talk at all about the cup final and we are

not going to talk about it this week either. The only thing we have right now is Maree,” said Liapakis. Killester recovered from their cup semi-final defeat to UCD the previous week to record a 103-77 point victory over local rivals KUBS BC. Griffith College Swords Thunder also secured the win on the road to Belfast Star, while a whopping 47 points from Demetrius Proby was enough to drive DCU Saints home to a 103-77 point win over fellow Dubliners, Eanna. Meanwhile, in the Women’s Super League Courtyard Liffey Celtics kept the pressure on DCU Mercy at the top of the league with a 77-57 win away to NUIG Mystics. T he victor y sees them remain second, behind DCU on points difference but having played a game more. Killester remain in midtable, however, after suffering a crushing 58-102 defeat to UCC Glanmire in Clontarf. The Cork team controlled the game throughput and hit an impressive 61 points in the second half to keep their league hopes alive.

Dublin trio advance in hockey’s Irish Senior Cup  STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@dublingazette.com

Mitch Darling on the attack for Three Rock Rovers against Cookstown. Picture: Adrian Boehm

LEADING Dublin trio Pembroke, Three Rover Rovers and Glenanne all advanced in the Irish Senior Cup last Saturday with wins over Ulster opposition. For a second week running, Pembroke put their fans through the ringer against mid-table Ulster Premier opposition. Last week, they just scraped by South Antrim 4-3. On Saturday, it was Mossley’s attempts at a giant killing and a double of Jordan Robinson and an Aaron

Boyd effort meant they they went toe-to-toe with their illustrious visitors. It sent their quarter-final tie to a shoot-out with normal time ending 3-3, matching goals from Harry Spain, Cian Murphy and Keith O’Hare. Pembroke prevailed 4-3 in the shoot-out, making them the first semi-finalist in the competition this year. In the quarter-finals, meanwhile, Three Rock advanced to an away date against Cork C of I thanks to a strong 5-2 win over Cookstown with Mitch Darling’s individual goal the highlight.

He broke 75 metres forward before turning a couple of defenders inside out and then picked out the top corner. It made it 4-2 after Rovers had found the Co Tyrone side a tough one to shake off. John Mullins and Jody Hosking had them 2-0 up inside 10 minutes and they led 3-1 at the break thanks to a close range finish from Ben Walker. but Michael Kerr and Greg Allen goals kept Cookstown interested until Darling’s goal. Daragh Walsh added a lovely final goal to close out the result.

Lisnagarvey eliminated Railway Union at the third attempt after two frozen dates, Sean Murray and Matthew Nelson doing the damage in a 2-0 win, scoring once in each half. EYHL leaders Glenanne proved far too strong for Queen’s in a 6-0 win with Shane O’Donoghue bagging a brace with further goals from Shannon Boucher, Adam Clayton, Eddie O’Malley and Neil Byrne. The Glens face Monkstown in the next round while Garvey will face YMCA - the last remaining Leinster Division One side.

18 January 2018 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 35

GAZETTE

RUGBY

Lansdowne into Bateman final again after 86 years LANSDOWNE will contest their first Bateman Cup final since the headquarters club last lifted the trophy in 1931, with defending champions Cork Constitution providing the opposition over the weekend of April 21-22. It will be an all-Division 1A decider after the Dublin outfit avoided a potential banana skin with a 34-15 win against Sligo. The Connacht side were still very much still in the hunt when trailing 14-8 at half-time. Fullback Jack Keegan opened their account with a third-minute penalty, which whetted the big crowd’s appetite at Hamilton Park. Despite the hosts protesting that Lansdowne loosehead Greg McGrath was boring in, the visitors forced a penalty try from scrum pressure, before Sligo edged ahead on the 20-minute mark when they injected pace through their backs and centre Mark Rooney scored in the corner. Keegan, who had missed an earlier penalty, was off target with the difficult conversion and Lansdowne replied with a timely 36th-minute try. A well-executed lineout maul saw their Connacht-capped hooker Jack Dinneen touch down with Scott Deasy converting for a 14-8 lead. The sides swiftly swapped tries on the resumption as this entertaining contest continued to ebb and flow. From a poor Sligo exit, Lansdowne winger Daniel McEvoy ran back a kick at searing pace, jinking in and out to break clear and score a brilliant try by the posts. Despite losing lock Ciaran Cassidy to the sin-bin for taking a player out from the restart, 14-man Sligo dug their heels in and a fine move, finished off by winger Philip Carter, kept their hopes alive at 21-15 down. Lansdowne went for the corner from penalties but the recent Connacht Senior Cup champions defiantly held out, and out-half Deasy was soon called upon to go for the posts and give the visitors a nine-point cushion. Mike Ruddock’s men have been a class apart in the Ulster Bank League’s top flight so far this season and their strength in depth, including some strong-carrying forwards on the bench, allowed them to seal the result with two late unconverted tries from Charlie Butterworth and Harry Brennan.

Italian job offers new footballing pathway John Deans speaks to the Dublin Gazette about how Irish players can find a different route to the professional ranks  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

JOHN DEANS is using his international contacts to try and introduce a new wave of young Irish players to a more unusual path to professionalism: Italy. He aims to provide an alternative pathway to the typical plan to move to the UK as teenagers and the high attrition rate it brings. He is using the Italian contacts he made whilst working with Woods in an ambitious attempt a different method, working with contacts built up as a long time employee of UK agent Derek Woods. “I’ve been involved in football a long time,” Deans told the Dublin Gazette. “I have been trying to get these contacts

to take a look at some players for a few years, and finally I got a call in 2016 from a guy at Roma. He said he was coming over to take a look at some lads, and bringing some other scouts with him.” It was to be a slow process but one that holds plenty of promise for the young Irish players involved. “I set up three or four games in July 2016 and some agents came over to look at them. The players come from outside of the typical big youth clubs that have scouts regularly watching them in Ireland like St Kevin’s and St Joseph’s. “A lot of the players that are coming out to Italy this time come from less obvious clubs; I have lads from areas like Harold’s

Cross, Kevin Street, St Francis and Tallaght.” The games that started the process took place in Dublin in 2016 and saw just under 90 players take part. The Italian visitors chose to invite 24 players out to Italy to have another look at them. In August 2017, 120 players trialled with two dozen chosen by Italian coaches for further scrutiny. To allow for issues such as the language barrier and initial integration difficulties, Deans will be taking out two groups of 12 through January and February, the first of which arrived in Naples earlier this week. Rather than heading in smaller numbers, as is typical, the Irish lads have created ‘teams’ who have been training together

The Irish contingent that arrived in Italy earlier this week for a unique trials experience.

over the last few weeks. “They all know each other, and have been training at Sacred Heart FC, who kindly lent us their facilities for the last six weeks to work on the trip,” Deans said. “We’ll be playing 27 kilometres outside of Naples against Under-17 teams like Atletico Sorrento and Benevento, teams that play in Serie B or Serie C of Italian football, though Benevento are currently bottom of Serie A. We’ll also be playing a university team. “We don’t want to be playing the academies from the really top teams as we have to give the team a chance to show what they can do. There are one or two who I think this could go a lot further and scouts from really big clubs will be there, includ-

ing Roma and Napoli. “Lots of boys travel to the UK and end up being released after two or three years,” Deans explains of the issues facing young soccer players trying to go pro. “They bring you over at 14 and often release you at 16. The releases are actually coming from the chairmen as it costs £30,000 to £40,000 to bring a player over for a year, pay a wage, train them, and keep them in food and accommodation. “If the next year group come through and look better, players get let go. They come back from the level they’ve been at, take a look at the League of Ireland, and a lot of them decide to just give it up. Over in Italy, the Serie B and Serie C clubs survive by selling players. They’re very much routes to the bigger clubs, so it’s a great chance for the boys.” Deans has been helped in his endeavours by a number of businesses that are sponsoring his Italian trip, including Frank Keane Liffey Valley, Facility Support Services, Tritech Engineering and John Ward Construction, as well as through the lend of those Sacred Heart FC facilities. “The reality of professional soccer is something people often don’t really understand,” he concludes. “It really is dog eat dog, and we’re going to have to get things right going forward in this country.”

GAZETTE

36 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 18 January 2018

SPORT

CROSSCountry

NEW INITIATIVE: BOHEMIANS AND ROVERS PART OF MAIDEN SEASON

Dunne deal for Raheny man at Leinster masters RAHENY Shamrock’s John Dunne, pictured, landed the Leinster masters title helping the master’s men to team gold as intermediate men took silver in Dunboyne. Ian McConkey took ninth place with Wes O’Brien 12th and Graham O’Dwyer just one place behind followed by Will Walsh in 18th place to give the men’s team 52 points taking silver behind Tullamore harriers with 33 points. In the women’s race, Orla Manley took a very impressive ninth place with Kate O’Dwyer 16th, Aine Crimin 17th and Hannah Craddock 20th. That gave the women’s team 62 points, just eight points behind Sportsworld who took silver ahead of St Senan’s on countback. Kate Martin and Laura Brennan also ran well to finish 28th and 31st in a competitive races. In the Masters women race Zoe Quinn was first home in 10th place followed by Lorraine Byrne 24th, Elaine O’Hagan McNulty 33rd and Louise Keogh 36th giving the masters women’s team 63 points a heart breaking two points off bronze. Mary Walsh finished 43rd with Rachel Ormrod 49th, Adrienne Atkins 53rd, Jenny Colbert 60th, Orla Lambe 62nd, Nora Byrne 67th and Brighid Smyth 88th. The women’s M50 team of Adrienne Atkins, Nora Byrne, Brighid Smyth collected bronze with 34 points just behind silver medallists Tullamore Harriers with 28 points while Mullingar Harriers took gold with 22 points. John Dunne won the masters men’s race outright and gold M35 gold with Ian Conroy second overall and silver medallist M35. Des Kennedy took fifth place overall and gold in the M45 category with Michael McMahon 12th overall to give the men’s team a straight forward team gold. Ian McConkey took 62nd place, Donald Quinn 84th, Brian Kelly 93rd, Damien Martin 114, Paul Hyland 121, David Kirwan 141, Peter Smyth 152. The masters 50’s team of Donald Quinn, Brian Kelly and Damien Martin were just eight points off the bronze medal. Elsewhere on a busy weekend Kieran Kelly helped Ireland to fourth in the 4x1km mixed relay at the Great Edinburgh cross country meet. Kelly was partnered with Eoin Everard, Laura Crowe and Kerry O’Flaherty.

Christy McElligott, left, at the launch of Bohemians amputee football with new recruits and Dublin Mayor Micheal Mac Donncha

Amputee football league launches  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

IRELAND’S amputee football league will get underway in late February with the FAI’s Christy McElligott keen to invite further players to take part. The first season will open with Bohemians, Shamrock Rovers and Cork City as the three teams. Ireland has had an international amputee football team for sometime, and last year that team – in the form of a club side – travelled regularly to the UK to compete in their league, in the

absence of an Irish offering. That was an expensive undertaking and didn’t encourage more players to get involved. McElligott – formerly a St Patrick’s Athletic and Ballymun United player who lost his leg shortly after winning the FAI Junior Cup with United – hopes the new tournament will draw in new players and expand competition for the international side. In amputee football, all outfield players play with crutches, having either had a leg amputated, or been born without one. The crutches are treated much like hands and

VHI PARKRUN Gillick and McCaffrey’s star turn at Bushy Park BUSHY Park, Terenure hosted a special parkrun event last weekend as Vhi celebrate their partnership with the organisation. Vhi Ambassador David Gillick and Dublin Ladies Footballer, Sarah McCaffrey led a warm up for participants before completing the 5km free event. Parkrunners enjoyed refreshments post event at the Vhi Relaxation Area where a physiotherapist took participants through a post event stretching routine. Picture: David Fitzgerald/Sportsfile

playing the ball with them is considered a handball except where accidental. Arm amputees are incorporated into the game as goalkeepers and, at international level, the game is seven-a-side. “We’ve spread the international players across the new teams to even things up,” McElligott tells us. “We’ll start off with the three teams, playing a series of round robin games at each of their home grounds. I have 40 players on my database who might get involved, so we could expand quickly. If we do, I hope to have two tiers.” “The League of Ireland

clubs have been great in really embracing the idea, and they could easily end up with two teams each, one in each of those two tiers. That would help with bringing in people, and they can start playing at a lower level, away from the international players. “While we don’t need international players for Ireland at the moment, I think it’s very important that the current players are put under a bit of pressure. They might be a bit comfortable with their places at the moment. “This will add to competition. We’ll play a league with a series of round robin games to

start with, at the different venues – Dublin, Cork, then Dublin again – and when the league comes to an end, we’ll run a cup tournament, too, and then have a couple of months off. That’s the plan.” “I’ve always said football is the best medicine,” McElligott concludes. With an entirely new league about to unroll under the stewardship of a passionate ex-professional player and amputee, it’s clear he believes it.” You can get in touch with the Irish amputee football team through their website, Facebook and Twitter pages.

18 January 2018 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 37

GAZETTE

SOCCER: TOLKA CLUB BEAT NORTHERN IRELAND SIDE

Shels Under-15s rush to celebrate their DB Sports Cup final victory.

Shels add DB crown to growing collection  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

SHELBOURNE’S Under15 girls played in the DB Cup recently - a contest originally intended to create an ‘All Ireland’ champions by placing the Northern Irish titlists up against their Ireland counterparts - they did so with an extra competitive backdrop. Instead of playing the Northern Irish club champions as is customary in this competition, they took on the Northern Irish age-group national team in a unique challenge for Shels. Typical of the success of the club in recent years, however, they drew the contest 1-1, and then defeated their illustrious counterparts on penalties. These kind of successes have become common around Tolka. “Our club slogan, what we put on the T-shirts, is ‘living the dream’,” coach Keith O’Neill, who describes himself as coaching the “munchkins” (from age six to eleven), tells the Dublin Gazette.

“The club is incredibly successful. In the 2016/17 season, we won every one of the 28 cups we entered at age group level.” “We were All-Ireland champions at every age. Of course, we were out of three All-Ireland championships a month into the following season, but sometimes that’s just how it goes!” The club, though, are battling against a curve of what O’Neill describes as “politics and discrimination” in the game, and trying to help their players to better things. “Players know that if they join us they have a chance of playing internationally,” O’Neill says. “Of course, like any club we have our superstars, our hard workers, and some players who take it a bit less seriously. “The current Ireland captain Katie McCabe came through our ranks, though, and now plays for Arsenal. We have another former player at Celtic, and five players on educational scholarships in the US. Almost every agegroup side has five or six

internationals in it. The side that beat Northern Ireland recently had seven or eight Republic of Ireland internationals in it. “We played the Bob Doherty Trophy where we finished third. The other five competitors were England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, as well as a Republic of Ireland team that had taken four or five of our players.” Astonishingly, the girls club has only been running since 2007, but has become a football factory,

and O’Neill is always keen to take on more ladies keen to get play soccer. “We have players traveling from Cavan, Monaghan, Laois, Dundalk, Trim, Wexford... some travel half the country to play for us. It’s because we take ladies football seriously here,” he explains. And while the men’s section of the club has been enduring tough times of late, Shels female section continues to make big waves across all age groups.

WOMEN’SRugby

Railway on fast track to top of AIL table with heavy win over Highfield RAILWAY Union took full advantage of UL Bohs’ 19-0 defeat to Old Belvedere when they recorded a comprehensive 67-0 triumph over Highfield to move back to the top of the All-Ireland league table. It was an excellent all-round display from the Sandymount side and they were deserving winners, dominating from the first whistle to the last. “It’s a difficult time of year, with Six Nations camps and the Irish Sevens flying out to Sydney on the morning of the match, but it gives a great opportunity for players to step up when the internationals are gone,” said Railway director of rugby John Cronin. Rachel Healy, Daisy Earle and Meaghan Kenny certainly stepped up and all got on the scoresheet in an 11-try victory as Railway powered their way back to the summit. Highfield started the game slowly and their tackling left a lot to be desired early on. They improved this aspect as the game progressed and proved harder to break down in the second half. Earlier in the weekend, Belvo provided a hugely unexpected result. UL Bohemians came to Dublin with a proud eight-match winning streak but it came to an end at Anglesea Road. Josh Brown’s ‘Belvo side led 19-0 at the break after a brace of tries from recently-retired Ireland international Sophie Spence, one from Stephanie Barman, and two successful conversions from Nora Stapleton, another player who bowed out of the international game following the Women’s Rugby World Cup. Kathryn Dane was excellent all through with extremely accurate passing and several line-breaks to her credit. Half-backs Dane and Stapleton kicked for territory very effectively, while impressive tackle counts from winger Clodagh Dunne and back rower Oonagh Hynes kept UL from breaking through. At the other end, Spence and Elise O’Byrne-White kept the Dubliners on the front foot as they recorded their best result of the season so far. UL, who were missing some key players due to international commitments, never really got into the game and looked lethargic in the first half. Even though they were much more switched on after half-time, they could not break through a stubborn Old Belvedere rearguard.

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38 DUBLIN GAZETTE  CITY 18 January 2018

SPORT

FASTSport

SOCCER: DECORATED BOSS LENDS HIS COACHING EXPERIENCE

Johnny McDonnell at the announcement of his link-up with Belvedere

High School advance in Vinne Murray Cup THE High School dug deep to best Mount Temple 22-10 in a Bank of Ireland Leinster Schools Vinnie Murray Cup 1st round replay at Anglesea Road on Monday. Temple had drawn confidence from second row Keelan Toomey’s try and centre Frank Farrell’s conversion to trail just 10-7 at the break with the wind at their backs in the second-half. But the Rathgar school seemed to have learned more from the original fixture and handled the poor weather conditions better to add tries from scrum-half Stephen Landy and prop Dylan Walsh to guarantee safe passage to the next round. The High School will now go on to face The King’s Hospital in the 2nd Round this Friday at Donnybrook (3pm). Prop Marcus Hannon’s 55th minute try pushed Salesian College beyond Skerries 17-12, also at Donnybrook. It was finely balanced at 7-5 after Skerries full-back Oisin McKey flashed over in response to Salesian centre Sean Chan’s try and out-half Evan Burke’s conversion. Hannon’s try and Burke’s extras and Burke’s penalty made it a two-score game before Paddy Fay-Watt’s last-minute try, converted by Eoghan McDonald, into a mere consolation. Catholic University School defeated Dundalk Grammar 27-0, scoring four tries at Ashbourne RFC. Their tries came from Barry Mangan, Harry O’Byrne, Philip Healy and Ronan O’Leary and their defence closed down Grammar. The King’s Hospital showed their teeth in overcoming Gorey 34-5 at Greystones RFC, Patrick Hickey nabbing two of their six tries.

McDonnell back at Belvo sport@dublingazette.com

BELVEDERE FC have appointed a familiar face as their new head of Coaching Development, as Johnny McDonnell – a former Belvedere player and UEFA prolicense holder – takes up the role at Fairview Park. McDonnell is a former League of Ireland manager and has also been involved at national level with the Faroe Islands. The respected schoolboy club are currently in the off-season, and are key to Irish soccer development: the famous northsiders have taken

over a hundred major youth level trophies since forming in the 70s, with ten players playing at full international level. The club at partnered with Inchicore premier league mainstays St Patrick’s Athletic – where McDonnell is a former boss – as part of the FAI’s programme to create a natural progression between youth and senior football in Ireland. “I’ve gone up and had a look around, and I like what I see. I like the facilities and I like what’s going on with the coaches,” McDonnell said fol-

INDOOR LEAGUE Clonliffe lead the way with trio of victories DEFENDING champions Clonliffe Harriers landed three important victories at the Irish Life Health National Indoor league on Saturday to lead round 1 of the men’s team competition. It saw Leo Morgan winning the 60m, Rouls Olusa coming first in the 60m hurdles and Keith Marks getting the gold in the men’s long jump. Defending their title from 2017, DCH’s women’s team lead after round one with four wins at the event.

lowing his appointment. “I think it looks lively. There’s a good atmosphere around the place and it looks like a good learning environment. My background is from Belvedere from a long time back. It’s something that interested me, as I haven’t worked at schoolboy level before. “For me, from the coaching end of it, the principles will still be the same. It’s such a big club, and I know it’s changing with the League of Ireland situation. What attracted me was working with the coaches. I

want to work with them, and their players. “Ideally I want to have a look at the coaches and the way they’re working. It’s ideal to come in at the start of the season, and some of teams aren’t even back yet. I want to have a look at the coaches and see if I can help develop to coaches and they can then develop the kids. “That’ll be the first plan. To sit down with them and try and see if I can give them some of the knowledge that I have. I’m coming in to work with them initially,

and just be on their side, and help them as much as I can. “I just want to see what they’re doing on the pitch,” McDonnell concluded. “I’m not coming in with any philosophy. It’s going to take a bit of time to put my stamp on the coaches over the next couple of months.” With an already impressive development programme underway at Belvedere, the addition of the former St Patrick’s Athletic, Drogheda United, Dublin City and Shelbourne boss is a huge coup to the club.

18 January 2018 CITY  DUBLIN GAZETTE 39

GAZETTE

LADIES FOOTBALL: HIGH OCTANE START TO THE 2018 SEASON FOR XXXDUBLIN

FASTGAA

Na Fianna’s Aislling Frier and Plinkett’s Gaby Couch (St Oliver Plunketts) . Picture: GAAPics.com The Dublin ladies Gaelic football team following their win in the annual Dub Stars game. Picture: GAAPics.com

Stars come out at DCU SENIOR DUB STARS

Dublin 5-8 Dub Stars 4-7  JAMES HENDICOTT sport@dublingazette.com

THE DUBLIN ladies and the Dub Stars played out their annual pre-season contest on Sunday, and while it ended with substantial tallies on both sides and with a win for the county team, this was very much the game of two halves. In a patchy opening period, both sides looked – unsurprisingly – a little match-weary, as a strong-looking Dublin panel conceded plenty of possession, but were hardy in their defensive interference. They prevented stand out midfield performances from Sarah Fagan (Clontarf) and Jennifer Dunne (Cuala) from having the impact they perhaps should have. It was the more familiar face of a pitch-roaming Carla Rowe (Clann Mhuire) who did most of the damage for the county team, fisting in to polish off a fluent move from close range for the first

points of the contest, adding a point late on in the half, and looking consistently dangerous throughout. Rowe’s frees looked a little rusty, but her general play stood out, with Eabha Rutledge (K ilmacud Crokes) and a high, swirling late score from Rebecca McDonnell (Clanna Gael Fontenoy) giving the Dublin side the narrowest of half time leads. They’d been pegged back by a period of midhalf dominance from their challengers, with a welltaken goal from Niamh Rickard (Fingallians). followed by two frees from Dunne during a phase of play in which they probably should have scored more. In particular, Laura Nerney (Foxrock Cabinteely) broke clean through, only to fire high and wide when it looked easier to take a chance on beating the ever-outstanding Dublin ‘keeper Ciara Trant (St Brigid’s). The Dubs went in with a 1-3 to 1-2 lead. There were reams of changes at half time, giv-

ing Mick Bohan plenty to think about as the sides went all out for goals in a frantic second period. The now much-altered Dublin side were getting to grips with the contest up front, and fired in two goals early in the second half, with Noelle Healy (St Brigid’s) scoring one and key in another. She was later to be named player of the match. The pace continued, a further five goals still to come, with the likes of

Fiona Claffey (Foxrock Cabinteely) and Jess Tobin (Cuala) staking a claim for the challenging Stars team in front of the county manager by drilling home. For the Dubs, the goal of the game came via a superb volleyed finish from Danielle Lawless (St Sylvester’s), who let fly at a loose looking ball into the square to smash home Dublin’s fifth. The score, at this point, was becoming somewhat academic, and while there

will be doubts defensively as it rained second half goals, there’s clearly plenty of attacking talent for Bohan to ponder in the coming weeks, with several of his bigger-name forwards not even present at DCU for the contest. Dublin’s winning margin, ultimately, was 5-8 to 4-8, with the Dub Stars pulling a goal back with the very last kick of the game. In short, breathless entertainment.

Navy and Blues play out 11-goal junior thriller A FINAL-minute point from Aoife Keyes helped the Navy Team to complete an impressive comeback against their Blue Team counterparts in the New Ireland Assurance Junior Dub Stars Challenge at the DCU Sportsgrounds on Sunday, 6-9 to 5-11. With 15 minutes remaining in a gripping contest, the Blues had developed a seemingly insurmountable nine-point advantage (5-10 to 3-7). However, Navy dug deep in the final-quarter, and thanks in no small part to strong scoring returns from Gillian McCluskey, Clara O’Sullivan and Rachel Staunton, Martin Mitchell’s charges ultimately came out on top. The Navy team had a point to spare in last year’s inaugural junior clash, but while there were some returning faces 12 months on (McCluskey and Staunton were opponents on that occasion), this was a debut bout for a number of players in the tie that features the top performers from the 2017 junior county championships. The Blues got off to a dream start with Plunkett’s Gaby Couch scoring in the first minute before Garristown’s Edel Quinn palmed in a goal soon after. Louise Fagan replied with a major for Navy to stem the tide but the Blue side would steadily advance their lead out to 3-6 to 2-1 with a flow or scores with Ciara McDunphy scoring a goal en route to a tally of 1-4. A six-point salvo, underpinned by Gillian McCluskey’s points, saw Navy make inroads into the difference but a stoppage time Anne Whelan goal did keep a 4-6 to 2-7 lead in the Blue team’s favour. Rachel Staunton’s goal breathed life back into the Navy hopes but a trio of superb scores by Couch, McDunphy and Sweeney, the Blues quickly re-asserted their authority. Navy, though, produced a stunning riposte with McCluskey and Clara O’Sullivan at the heart of a memorable late turnaround.

GAZETTESPORT

ALL OF YOUR DUBLIN CITY SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 34-39

RETURN OF THE MAC: Belvo old boy back at the club to lend his coaching experience to next generation P38

JANUARY 18-24, 2018

STARS IN ALIGNMENT: DCU plays host to annual battle of club and county P39

Warren O’Hora has made the switch from Bohemians to Brighton

O’Hora’s Bright future After a breakthrough season with Bohemians, teeanger becomes the first signing of the transfer window by Premier League outfit Brighton

 KARL GRAHAM

sport@dublingazette.com

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. The 18-year-old defender made the breakthrough at Bohs last season and captained the club’s Under-19 squad to the SSE Airtricity Under-19 league title. However, he will now don the blue and white of Brighton’s Under-23 side. “It was the club I wanted to go to; they had a big interest in me for a couple of months,” O’Hora told the Dublin Gazette from the seaside town. “They asked for a trial during the sea-

son but I couldn’t go, obviously, because I was playing football with Bohs. “I knew a few guys over here; Jay Molumby, Aaron Connolly and a few of the other boys. They told me all about it so when I got here, it wasn’t a big surprise.” O’Hora came through the ranks at St Kevin’s Boys before making the move to Bohemians, and credits the pathway he took as being vital to his progression. Former teammate Fuad Sule also recently made the move to England, signing for League Two outfit Barnet. “It is an example of the good players that are in the league. There are a lot of young prospects coming through, especially in Bohs itself. There

is a great pathway to get into the Bohs first team so I would encourage any player to go there at a young age. It is a great club and gives chances to young players like myself and Fuad.” O’Hora had trials with Shrewsbury and Norwich shortly before Brighton, managed by former Republic of Ireland international Chris Hughton, and both were interested in signing him, but he only had eyes for one club. “The facilities are obviously top class and everything is done properly. Having a few Irish boys makes it a bit earlier; makes it feel a little bit like you are at home.” Movements are being made in Ireland to convince young players to stay longer in Ireland before making the move to the UK, and O’Hora

is a fine example of how it can benefit players. “Obviously, it is a good pathway to go down. Most players that move at a young age come home. I don’t know why that is; maybe they haven’t matured properly or developed. “Any Irish lads who want to go to England don’t necessarily have to go at 15 or 16. They can stay in the League of Ireland, try to get into the first team, and work their way from there.” O’Hora has now been in England for two weeks and is already starting to settle in. “I was a little nervous coming over, obviously, but it was something I wanted to do and it is the career I chose. My family and friends are all happy for me and, at the end of the day, it is only a 45-minute flight away so it’s not too bad.”