Clondalkin

Clondalkin GAZET TE FREE

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YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER

INSIDE: Time to help O’Muircheartaigh support Pieta House: P4

April 14, 2011

JAMMING: Popular music centre holds an opening day for locals: Page 8

Leo’s on board: Luas line test is full steam ahead MINISTER for Transport, Leo

Rugby: Clondalkin win promotion to Division 1 Page 32

Varadkar was, perhaps, briefly imagining life as a Luas driver when he momentarily took to the cabin of a tram at the Cheeverstown stop, where he was on hand to see the first test run on the new Luas link to Citywest and Saggart from Belgard.

However, Minister Varadkar soon vacated the tram, deciding instead to keep on track with his duties in overseeing the day’s tests on the major Luas line extension, expected to open in July.

Full story on Page 6

Football: Round Towers leave it late for AFL victory Page 31

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES ..................... 6 MOTORS ........................18 BUSINESS .................... 21 TRAVEL......................... 22 ENTERTAINMENT ........ 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

Clonburris scheme may not go ahead Council admits it doesn’t know developer’s plans

Q PAUL HOSFORD

THE controversial development of 800 homes at Clonburris may never be built, South Dublin County Council has revealed.

The controversial development, proposed by Shelbourne Developments, is for

more than 800 high-density residential units on lands next to Griffeen Avenue, subject to the Clonburris Local Area Plan.

At this week’s council meeting, councillor William Lavelle (FG) asked the county manager “to present a detailed report for discussion

on all matters, including subsequent planning processes” pertaining to the deal.

In their response, council officials admitted that they don’t know whether Shelbourne is in a position to finish the development.

Full Story on Page 3

2 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 14 April 2011

COURTS 250 images of child pornography were seized in house

Man sentenced for possession

W

Barking mad?

What your dog is saying

GAZETTE PETS PAGE 12

The Four Courts

A DUBLIN man, who was caught in possession of child pornography and had previously reported the same offence to gardai while working as a computer repair man, has been given a suspended sentence.

Thomas Fennell (42), of Oatfield Avenue, Clondalkin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to the

possession of 250 images of child pornography at his home on June 6, 2007.

As an employee of Compustore, he had reported to the authorities at least one incidence of child pornography that he had found on computers he was repairing, the court was told.

The court heard there were 20 female subjects in the images, who were between the ages of nine to 17, and were exposing their genitalia.

Judge Tony Hunt imposed a two-year sentence, which he suspended on strict conditions for four years, including that Fennell undergo two years’ probation supervision, attend all appointments, and attend for counselling therapy, as directed.

He ordered that Fennell permit gardai to have reasonable access to any address where he is residing, and also ordered the destruction of all material seized by gardai.

Garda Alan Douglas told Ms Melanie Greally BL, prosecuting, that a warrant was issued and Fennell’s home was searched on June 5, 2007.

He said when gardai got to the house, they knocked on the door for 10 minutes, but there was no answer, so they broke a window and Fennell then came downstairs to let them in.

Fennell showed them to a box room, where a PC and three laptops were seized. Following analysis in December of that year, 250 images were

found on one of the computers. Fennell was arrested and interviewed in Ronanstown Garda Station, where he accepted the images were of child pornography.

Fennell accepted the images were of females under the age of 17, that some of the children had not yet developed, and that he went back to view the images a second time.

Gda Douglas told Mr Tony McGillicuddy BL, defending, Fennell made no attempt to stop the investigation, never sought a solicitor, and had acknowledged he had been very stupid.

He told the court Fennell has no previous convictions, and had never come to the attention of gardai before.

Mr McGillicuddy said that when Fennell worked as computer repair man in Compustore, he reported that he had found child pornography on machines he was fixing.

He said that after Fennell was made redundant the previous year, he found himself with a lot of time on his hands and had fallen prey to the very thing he had reported to gardai.

Mr McGillicuddy said Fennell acknowledged his stupidity. He told Judge Hunt none of the subjects of the images were engaging in any “sexual activity”.

Judge Hunt noted in imposing sentence that Fennell came from a decent family, had a significant work history and no previous convictions.

14 April 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 3

PLANNING Cllr Lavelle wants Clonburris plan to be revisited

Scheme may not go ahead Q PAUL HOSFORD clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

THE controversial development at Clonburris may never be built, South Dublin County Council (SDCC) has admitted.

At this week’s council meeting, councillor William Lavelle (FG) had asked the county manager “to present a detailed report for discussion on all matters, including subsequent planning processes, pertaining to the land-swap agreement approved by councillors in November, 2006, in which this council disposed of 41.5 acres of land at Balgaddy/Kishogue to Shelbourne Developments”.

The controversial development proposed by Shelbourne Developments is to build more than 800 high-density residential units on lands next to Griffeen Avenue, subject to the Clonburris Local Area Plan (LAP).

The proposal was granted planning permission in February by An Bord Pleanala, despite a massive campaign of objections mounted by local residents, and supported by councillors.

Responding, a council spokesperson said that whether the development will be built or not is still not known.

“This development was planned in an entirely different time and a different market.

COUNCIL: TECHNOLOGY

County App plan

Councillor William Lavelle is calling on South Dublin County Council to revisit the Clonburris Local Area Plan, in light of continuing local objections to the high-density scheme

“Whether Shelbourne are prepared to keep the deal alive, we don’t know,” said the council spokesperson.

Cllr Lavelle said that the company were being given time to consider their position.

“In response to my motion, council management openly admitted that this planning permission may never be built, but that Shelbourne Developments were being given time to consider their options.”

He went on to say that,

should Shelbourne decide not to build on the lands, the whole Clonburris Action Plan should be revisited.

“I made clear at [today’s] council meeting that, if Shelbourne Development advise that they are not to progress with this planning permission, then I want the controversial Clonburris LAP be revisited before they submit a new application.

“The current LAP was adopted in 2008 by the last

council, of which I was not a member.

“I have consistently argued that this master plan was overly-ambitious, significantly understated the traffic impact, and should never have allowed six-storey buildings to be permitted right next door to existing two-storey housing,” said Cllr Lavelle.

At the time of going to press, Shelbourne Developments had not responded to requests for comment.

SOUTH Dublin County Council (SDCC) is working with South Dublin County Tourism to further develop the South Dublin iGuide – an iPhone app for the county.

Councillor Chris Bond (Lab) had asked the council to examine the feasibility of creating an app of its own, but, in response, the council said that will not be necessary.

“The iGuide is a free mobile application aimed at everyone who visits, works or lives in the county, while iGuide South Dublin makes connections with south Dublin news items.

“It covers a wide range of upcoming events [and] all SDCC departments, facilities, amenities, parks, community groups, libraries, heritage sites, events, festivals etc will have access to upload content on the iGuide South Dublin.

“SDCC is currently working with South Dublin Tourism to progress this. An Android version will be available in the second half of this year,” said the council.

4 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 14 April 2011

CAMPAIGN Public needed for annual fundraiser for local charity Pieta House

Get ready for Light exercise Q PAUL HOSFORD clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

“WE’VE helped 4,000 people – now, we need 4,000 people to help us.”That is the message from Pieta House, the Suicide Crisis Centre, which launched its annual Darkness Into Light fundraising event last week.

The charity, which was founded by Lucan woman, Joan Freeman, is calling on walkers, joggers and runners to take part in the event, which takes place in six counties, and includes an event in the Phoenix Park.

The launch was supported by some of Ireland’s well-known personalities, including GAA veteran commentator, Micheal O’Muircheartaigh; Operation

Transformation guru, Kathryn Thomas, and the well-known tailor and menswear retailer, Louis Copeland.

The event takes place on Saturday, May 7, and will see participants begin the five-kilometre course at 4am in darkness, and finish while the dawn is breaking.

Entrants can walk or jog the course at their own pace and, for those that enjoy a challenge, there will be a special running lane available.

The route in the Phoenix Park will start at the Papal Cross car park, then turn left onto Chesterfield Avenue, left onto Furze Road, left onto Upper Glen Road, left onto Acres Road and finishes back at the Papal Cross Car Park, at

Micheal O’Muircheartaigh was ready to put Louis Copeland and Kathryn Thomas through their paces when they joined him to help promote the upcoming Darkness into Light fundraiser

the single bollard on the pedestrian path.

O’Muircheartaigh said: “I am a huge supporter of Pieta House and the work that they do. Darkness Into Light is a wonderful event and I would encourage both young and old to get involved.

“What a beautiful way to start your day, as the sun comes up, and, at the same time raise much-needed funds for an extremely worthwhile cause,”

he said.

Following an extraordinary turnout last year in Dublin and Limerick, the event will now take place across the country in six locations, with this year also including Galway, Cork, Clare and Kerry.

Freeman, CEO of Pieta House, said the public keeps the charity operating. “We are so dependent on the generosity of the public to keep our doors open to those in crisis,

that we implore all those fit and able to please support us in this event.

“The theme of walking into the light is in line with the work which Pieta House does – providing a service to those in crisis, and helping them through their darkest time.

“Since opening our doors, in 2006, we have helped 4,000 people – now, we’re looking for 4,000 people to help us,” she said.

Last month, the charity opened its second national centre in Limerick, which follows Pieta House’s existing facility in Lucan, as well as its two outreach services, in Finglas and Tallaght.

It will also soon open another dedicated facility, in Ballyfermot.

To register for Darkness Into Light 2011, or for further information on Pieta House, see www.pieta.ie.

14 April 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 5

6 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 14 April 2011

TRANSPORT Saggart line’s test runs

The Minister for Transport, Leo Varadkar, appears to be considering a change of career as he takes to the control cabin of a Luas train at the new Cheeverstown stop, ready to see the first test run on the new Luas link to Citywest and Saggart from Belgard.

Full steam ahead for new Luas link Q PAUL HOSFORD

clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

TRANSPORT Minister Leo Varadkar was in Cheeverstown in West Tallaght last week to see the first test run on the new Luas link to Citywest and Saggart.

The Luas Line A1 promises to deliver “top-quality public transport services to established local communities, and will facilitate the developing Citywest business area”.

It is estimated that two million extra Red Line passenger journeys will be made annually as a result of this new line. The Luas, as a whole, has been losing passengers in recent years.

Luas Citywest (Line A1) is a new 4.2km light-rail link off the Red Line, at Belgard, and runs to Saggart in the west of

the county.

The new line includes five new stops, two new substations and a 300-space car park at Cheeverstown.

This new development has come about by means of a partnership between the public and private sectors, and it is expected that passenger services will start in July.

Consortium The private sector consortium, which came together to partner the Railway Procurement Agency in the delivery of Line A1, is Citywest Luas Ltd (CLL).

CLL is a group of local landowners and business interests, comprising Davy Hickey Properties, Harcourt Development Limited and HSS (Mansfield Group).

Line A1 will deliver a new option in top-quality public transport to communities such as Cairnwood, Ambervale, Belgard Green, Fettercairn, Kilmartin, Brookview and Ardmore.

The expected journey time from the terminus at Saggart/ Garter Lane to the city centre would be approximately 55 minutes, while the projected journey time from the existing Belgard stop to Saggart will be 10 minutes.

The new line will offer a 10-minute frequency at peak times, and the Tallaght terminus will have a six-minute frequency at peak.

The total project cost estimate is just under €150 million, with the developers’ contribution estimated at 55% of the total cost.

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EDUCATION €41.2m in funding for small- to medium-scale works

Summer update for local schools LOCAL schools have a good reason to celebrate this week, as five have been approved for funding under the Summer Works Scheme.

Labour Deputy Robert Dowds, who himself was a school principal, said: “Funding of €41.2 million will see improvements to five local primary and post-primary schools.”

A total of five local schools are included among the 453 primary and post-primary schools across the country that have been successful in their applications for funding under the scheme, this year.

The successful local schools are: St Peter the Apostle NS, Neilstown; St Ronan’s NS, Deansrath; Moyle Park College, Clondalkin; Collinstown Park Community College, Neilstown Road and Lucan Community College, Esker Drive.

These funds will allow the schools in question to carry out small- and medium-scale building works this summer under the Summer Works Scheme announced by the Minister for Education and Skills, Ruairi Quinn, TD. Welcome

Welcoming the provision for the local schools, Deputy Dowds said: “I am pleased to be able to announce that the scheme will benefit five of our local schools.

“The works in question cover projects in school buildings such as gas, electrical and mechanical works. These works will be carried out over the summer months, when the pupils are on holidays, so the disruption to schooling will be kept to a minimum.

“The Government has committed in our Programme for Government to advancing with ‘shovel-ready’ projects as quickly as possible, and this investment in our schools will create much-needed jobs in the construction sector.

“The capacity of schools to take responsibility for delivering small- and medium-scale projects is a key component of the Summer Works Scheme, and I’m pleased to be in a position to make funding available this year,”

he said.

“I am confident that school authorities will be able to achieve best value for money on prices for jobs, given the competitive construction market at present, and I call on schools to ensure that they maximise the benefit to their schools of the works sanctioned,” said Deputy Dowds.

The Planning and Build-

ing Unit in the Department for Education will be in contact shortly with all schools approved for grant aid under the scheme, with further details and instructions on how to proceed.

This year, almost €383 million will be invested in school building infrastructure under the school building and modernisation programme.

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Q STAFF REPORTER clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

Hop to it: Easter fun for Temple Street

Labour Deputy Robert Dowds welcomed the local funding

FEATURE PAGES 14-15

8 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 14 April 2011

FUNDRAISER: SKILLS Local music centre helps students lick any music nerves CANCER DAY

Tesco’s thanks

A BAKE sale, held at Tesco Clondalkin recently, helped to raise €450 for the Irish Cancer Society’s Daffodil Day, which took place nationwide on March 25.

Tesco staff’s home-baked cakes went down a treat, and everything was bought on the day. One staff member, Greg O’Reilly, raised money through sponsorship by having his legs waxed in the store.

The fundraiser will help the Irish Cancer Society reach its national fundraising target for Daffodil Day 2011, which was €3.8 million.

Daffodil Day took place at 100 Tesco stores nationwide.

All funds raised go towards the provision of free, nationwide patient care service for those affected by cancer. Events organised by shops ranged from bag packing to coffee mornings to sponsored walks.

Funds raised on Daffodil Day are channelled into a number of patient care services, such as the National Cancer Helpline, Freefone 1800 200 700.

Local kids get stuck into Jams Q PAUL HOSFORD

clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

JAMS Music Centre, which recently opened on Watery Lane, held its official opening day last week, with more than 30 young people taking to the stage to show just how the centre has positively affected them after just two short months.

The centre offers music lessons in an array of musical instruments, with piano, drums, guitar and bass tuition all on offer.

Parents and friends of the students, who formed bands to perform, all made their way to the car park, where they were treated to fantastic performances in glorious weather, making for a mini-

festival feel to the whole event.

Jason Miley, who runs Jams, was delighted with the overall outcome of the day.

He said: “There must have been 30 or so kids in bands performing, which was great.

“The aim was to have the kids from the school perform for their parents and friends, and show what they’ve learned in their time with us. It was also to let the local community know that we’re here,” he said.

So far, the school has had an extremely strong uptake in its classes, with 30 students having signed up in just a few short weeks.

For Miley, the process of seeing a youngster take up an instrument and then become

Parents and onlookers enjoyed a public display of the e Jams students’ abilities

confident and skilled enough to perform in front of a crowd is an extremely gratifying one.

“It’s absolutely brilliant and, thankfully, we got a bit of luck on the day with the weather.

“There was an amazing turnout on the day. It was as much for the parents as anything, really. They could see how far the kids have come.

“We only got the premises about two months ago, so we’re delighted with how it’s

going. It’s been a great start,” he said.

For further information, see w w w.facebook.com/ pages/Jams-Music-CentreClondalkin; email: jay.jamsmusic@gmail.com, or call 086 409 3286.

14 April 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9

10 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 14 April 2011

COURTS: MAN ASSAULTED WITH BOTTLES, STABBED

IT’S YOUR STORY Clondalkin in Community Games

Jail suspended despite attack FOUR youths have been given suspended sentences for their roles in the assault of a man who confronted them about throwing bottles at his house.

The victim had several bottles broken over his head and was stabbed twice after he was surrounded by the gang.

Adam McGovern (21), of Palmerstown Woods, and Ryan McGill (20), of Woodford Terrace, both in Clondalkin, pleaded guilty at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court to violent disorder at Monkfield Lawns on July 19, 2007.

Robert Behan (22), of Monkfield Court, and Warren Madden (20), of Monkfield Lawns, pleaded guilty to assault causing harm to Mr John Paul O’Callaghan at the same place and date. None of the four was charged with stabbing Mr O’Callaghan.

Judge Yvonne Murphy sentenced McGovern and McGill to two years, and ordered they hand over €2,000 each in compensation. She sentenced

Behan and Madden to 18 months, and ordered they hand over €1,000 each. All sentences were suspended in full.

Garda Warren Ashe told prosecuting counsel, Mr Damien Colgan BL, that Mr O’Callaghan was in his kitchen when he heard noise coming from outside. When he went out, he found several smashed beer bottles in front of his home, and a gang of seven or eight youths going up the street.

Mr O’Callaghan and his brother followed them in a car, and asked them why they had thrown the bottles. Madden claimed it wasn’t him, before head-butting the victim.

A scuffle broke out and several bottles were smashed over Mr O’Callaghan’s head.

He managed to get back to his car but was punched by Behan before he could get in.

He and his brother drove off. In the car Mr O’Callaghan noticed he was bleeding, and realised he had been stabbed.

Despite many Dublin teams taking part in the county finals of the Dublin Community Games’s U U-14 14 table quiz quiz, Clondalkin’s team put in a good showing throughout the quiz, finally finishing in the top three

It’s third place for clever kids THE brightest young minds in Dublin Community Games were put to the test on Friday night when the county final of the U-14 Table Quiz took place in Clondalkin.

A massive increase in numbers this year saw the venue packed to capacity as the teams took their seats, while family and friends came to support.

Co -ordinator, Shauna Curran, was ably assisted by Chris Reid, who acted as MC and kept things moving during and between rounds.

There were five rounds of general knowledge questions, and one round of Community Games questions.

With strong team work, “The Fockers” from Clondalkin took the lead after the first round, but they were overtaken by “Malahide 4”, who had a strong second round.

A strong third round from “SAGE” Marino-Fairview and “St Mary’s” Lucan saw

them put pressure on Malahide 4. At the break, there was only one point between the first and second place.

The fourth round saw Malahide 4 and St Mary’s score the same, which brought St Mary’s to joint second-place, hot on the heels of Malahide.

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

‘A massive increase in numbers this year saw the venue packed to capacity as the teams took their seats, with plenty of support’ -----------------------------------------------

There was little between the teams on the fifth round, but the last round was the Community Games round, where all questions were about events, rules, and distance of races in Community Games.

Malahide had a strong

final round to see them take the gold medals with a total of 77.5 points.

Meanwhile, St Mar y’s secured silver with 70.5 points, while a final push saw Clondalkin’s, The Fockers, overtake SAGE for third place with 70 points, seeing Marino-Fairview finish with fourth place certificates on 69.5 points.

The Malahide team comprised Jack Maughan, Niamh Delanty, Daniel Murphy and Sarah Deneher, who now travel to Athlone to represent Dublin at the HSE Community Games National Finals in May. For further information on competitions, and getting involved in the Community Games, contact your local Community Games secretary.

Alternatively, you can contact the Dublin secretary, Maureen Quinlan, on 01 872 8203, or see www.dublincommunitygames.ie.

14 April 2011 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 14 April 2011

GazetteePets Gazett

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: DIFFERENT TYPES OF BARKING JUST A DOG’S WAY OF COMMUNICATING

Woof, why do dogs bark?

T never ceases to amaze me, the number of queries I receive concerning nuisance barking.

People often ask me: “Why does my dog bark?” The answer is straightforward and not difficult to understand – dogs bark because barking is their way of communicating.

They don’t bark to annoy you or to spite you, or just because they can – although it may appear that way if it’s driving your neighbours mad!

However, there are different types of barking, and you, as the pet parent, must familiarise yourself with them. For example:

I

The Alert

Dogs bark because barking is their way of communicating and they don’t bark to annoy you or to spite you or just because they can

This is the normal, expected barking to alert you there’s an intruder in the house. It’s perfectly natural for your dog to bark if he senses there’s a threat to his family or his territory. This is usually a loud, sharp bark and, if you hone in on this natural canine instinct with proper training, you can help your dog protect your home and your family.

Barking at other dogs

A dog down the road barks and before you know it your own pet, along with every other dog within earshot is involved in a dawn chorus.

Very annoying.

Playful, excited barking

More common in puppies who bark when playing. My own dogs bark excitedly when they know a car trip and a walk

is imminent. This type of bark normally sounds upbeat.

Nuisance barking

Then there’s the biggie – the behavioural problem or nuisance barking. This usually signals boredom, loneliness or miscommunication between owner and pet. If this type of barking is a problem, you need to recognise the triggers!

• When does it occur?

• Is the dog left alone for long periods of time?

• Is he getting enough exercise?

• Is he anxious about something he hears or sees? (neighbour has a new lawn mower and the noise is scaring him, neighbour’s child is tormenting him, etc.)

In order to address this, you will require plenty of patience and training with a specialist dog trainer for both you and your dog. This will help you understand “doggy” language, and then you can correctly express what it is you wish to communicate to your pet.

Many training techniques are based upon the dog receiving a reward for the desired action. In this case, for example, the desired action would be “stop barking”.

When your dog barks and you wish to make him stop, hold his muzzle gently or squirt him, again gently, with a child’s toy water gun filled only with clean water – this will momentarily startle him and make him stop barking.

When he stops, use the word “quiet”.

Immediately after saying “quiet” if the dog remains quiet, reward him. When he starts barking again, repeat the process. Eventually he will learn to associate “quiet” with a reward. Eventually, your dog will stop barking without the need for the water gun and only the use of the word “quiet” will be sufficient.

It sounds easy enough. I mean once you determine the cause of your dog’s excessive barking, you can try to remove any potential reasons and you can begin to control his behaviour. Also, it helps if you give your dog better things to do to prevent and distract him from nuisance barking.

Some of the things you should never do:

Never comfort, feed or pet your dog when they bark for attention or out of anxiety; this is simply rewarding his behaviour.

Never shout – this will only cause him to bark more and louder.

Never allow your dog to bark constantly outside, regardless of the reason – this is the best way to make enemies of your neighbours.

Never use a shock collar they are inhumane, painful and unkind to your dog.

Never allow your dog to become lonely or bored, and never leave him to his own devices for long periods of time.

So, it’s up to you. Develop that “barking ear”, and find out exactly what your dog is saying when he “woofs”, “howls” and “growls”.

And yes, it requires a lot of time and patience, but it’s well worth it because if you train man’s (and woman’s) best friend properly, you’re embarking on a lifetime’s investment for you and your pet.

For information log onto www.dspca.ie or email me at miriam.kerins@dspca.ie.

14 April 2011 GAZETTE 13

14 GAZETTE 14 April 2011

LIBRARY

CHARITY Lindt is unleashing their Gold Bunny Team

Lectures for small businesses

Hopping

Q CECILIA FOURIE

Q CECILIA FOURIE

ARE you an owner of a small business or thinking of starting one? Then head down to the Central Library in the Ilac Shopping Centre for the 2011 spring and autumn lectures.

There will be a series of six free lectures to assist new and existing small business owners and managers.

The series of lectures was announced by Dublin Libraries in association with Dublin City Enterprise Board.

The lectures are aimed at those who are contemplating self-employment. This year’s theme is Innovation for Startups.

The spring series of cecture will kick of on April 21 and the autumn series will start on September 15.

Places must be reserved.

For more information, and a complete timetable, visit www. dublincitypubliclibraries.ie or contact the Ilac Library at 01 873 3996 or email them at businesslibrary@dublincity.ie

LINDT is hopping into action again this year in aid of Temple Street. Lindt is unleashing their Gold Bunny Team for their Make Easter Sweet for Temple Street. The Gold Bunny Team will be selling small Lindt bunnies for €1 at their nationwide road shows, with every cent made going straight to Temple Street.

They will be hitting the road and heading to Blanchardstown Shopping Centre on Thursday, April 21. The trail will continue on to the Pavilion Shopping Centre on Friday, April 22, with their last stop being Dundrum Shopping Centre on Saturday, April 23.

Adding a bit of fun and games to this year, the team are selling Gold Bunny Hunt Packs for €15. The pack includes everything you need to host your very own bunny hunt. Not only will the entire €15 be donated to a good cause, but you will also be

RTE presenter Lucy Kennedy and the Golden Bunnies are helping to Make Easter Sweet for Temple Street

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‘We are thrilled to be helping such a worthwhile cause.

The team at Temple Street do an amazing job, and the children they care for deserve the best facilities possible’ -------------------------------

Grainne Galvin, marketing manager for Lindt -------------------------------

entered into a competition to win one of two amazing family holidays to the luxurious Fota Island Resort and Fota Wildlife Park in Cork worth €1,500 each!

Thrilled

“We are thrilled to be helping such a worthwhile cause.

The team at Temple Street do an amazing job and the children they care for deserve

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14 April 2011 GAZETTE 15

for their Make Easter Sweet for Temple Street

THEATRE

into action for kids

True story of love and loss

Lucy with Temple Street patients, five-year-old Ciara Gill from Dublin and four-year-old Anthony Iannucci from Sallynoggin

the best facilities possible.

This year we hope to raise as much money as possible for such a fantastic charity,” said Grainne Galvin, marketing manager for Lindt.

This year it is Lindt’s fourth Make Easter Sweet for Temple Street, and the Lindt committee has vowed to make this year sweeter than any other!

To celebrate the campaigns birthday they are hosting their very first Gold Bunny Hunt on Sunday, April 17 at Bewleys Hotel, in the heart of Ballsbridge.

Fun day out

This family fun day out will see Gold Bunny fans hopping from one activity to the next

with Gold Bunny Hunts, facepainting, bouncy-castle and Hamleys toy demonstrations.

If you’d like to come along just simply make a donation of €5 per person at the gate and every cent will go to Temple Street. The hunt will take place from 12–6 and no reservations are necessary.

The 2011 campaign will

focus on raising funds to build a dedicated isolation inpatient room at Temple Street.

This facility will enable children and babies with very low immune systems, or those who may be extra susceptible to infection, to be safely treated in a protective environment.

“We are delighted to be

working with the Lindt team again this year. We value their support and enthusiasm, and we would like to thank the team and those who support the Lindt Make Easter Sweet Campaign, you really are making a difference,” said Angela McNulty, special events manager, The Fundraising Office, Temple Street.

A CAST of great actors, including Dave Duffy from Fair City, star in Spanish poet Lorca’s Blood Wedding, showing in the Project Arts Centre this April.

Set in1928 in the Spanish province of Almeria, a young bride abandons her husbandto-be on the morning of her wedding to elope with her childhood sweetheart. With the town up in arms, the young lovers are hunted down with terrifying consequences.

Directed by Ronnie McCann, this is a true story set to an original score with a cast of over 20 actors, including Derek Murphy, Liam Halley, Laura Brennan and Noella Brennan. McCann has been a successful actor and director for 20 years.

Running from April 18-30, Blood Wedding is a meaty story of love, betrayal, marriage, affairs, murder and plenty of action.

It is showing in the Project Arts Centre and tickets are €15.

Phone 01 8819613 for tickets.

16 GAZETTE 14 April 2011

SNAPSHOT The stories of the day Grape escape: Vintage win for Olive THE lucky winners of this month’s Marlay Wine Shop competition collected their prizes in the shop on the Grange Road in Rathfarnham last week.

The first prize in the competition, a case of wine worth €150, went to Sean McGovern.

Pictured here is enthusiastic Gazette reader and talented local photogrpaher, Olive Galbraith, picking up her prize, a case of wine worth €75.

Also pictured is Donal Tuomey, the owner of Marlay Wine Shop and kind sponsor of the competition. Local wine lovers should make a point of visiting Marlay Wines to see the impressive selection available.

14 April 2011 GAZETTE 17

GazetteContacts Block 3A, Mill Bank Business Park, Lucan Tel: 01 6010240 Fax: 01 6010251

Managing Director: Liam Holland email: lholland@gazettegroup.com Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@gazettegroup.com General Manager: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com Advertising Production: Anita Ward email: ads@gazettegroup.com Advertising Sales: 01 6010240 email: sales@gazettegroup.com Gazette Group Newspapers Ltd. Terms and Conditions for acceptance of advertisements Reserve the right to omit or suspend or alter any advertisement(s) in any of its publications. We also decline any responsibility in the event of one or more of a series of advertisements being omitted for any reason whatever, nor do we accept liability for any loss or damage caused by an error or inaccuracy in the printing of any advertisement. If your advertisement appears incorrectly, contact the Advertising Department immediately, as responsibility cannot be accepted for more than one week’s incorrect insertion. Responsibility cannot be accepted if the complaint is made more than two weeks after insertion. If one places an advertisement for more than one week and then cancels it after the first week, no refund or credit will be given for weeks cancelled. The advertiser undertakes to indemnify the Proprietors against any liability for any civil action arising out of the publication of the advertisement or any other matter printed or published in the Blanchardstown Gazette, Castleknock Gazette, Clondalkin Gazette, Dundrum Gazette, Dun Laoghaire Gazette, Lucan Gazette, Malahide Gazette and Swords Gazette. The placing of an order or contract will be deemed an acceptance of these conditions.

PENSIONERS

A new book for seniors

HOME Instead Senior Care has just published its third annual Irish Pensioner’s Handbook, a resource for seniors, their families and caregivers.

The handbook provides practical information and advice on issues such as home care and allowances and entitlements. It also boasts a directory of older person’s organisations and other useful contacts.

Speaking about the publication of the new handbook, Ed Murphy, chief executive of Home Instead Senior Care said: “The Irish Pensioner’s Handbook is an essential resource for senior citizens in Ireland. It is a valuable and easy-to-read guide specifically designed for older people and those caring for ageing loved ones.”

To order a copy of the Irish Pensioner’s Handbook, call 1890 930 013 or download a copy on www.homeinstead.ie or stop in to any Home Instead Senior Care franchise office.

18 GAZETTE 14 April 2011

M50

MOTORING

RoadSigns Road Signs BMW PRODUCES FASTEST PICK-UP: BMW has produced the world’s first high-performance pick-up at its Munich-based development centre. The BMW M3 Pick-up will fire the imaginations of all motorists with its top performance matched by a keen practical bent.

The M3 pick-up packs 420bhp from the V8 engine under the bonnet.

That was enough to allow it to top 300km/hr in a race testing run.

The practical features of the BMW M3 Pick-up are impressive. It has a rear-axle load capacity of up to 450 kilos. The load bed of the BMW M3 Pickup is clad in high-grade str uctured aluminium sheeting and provides the biggest cargo capacity ever offered on a BMW M vehicle.

Ford’s new Focus is more stylish and modern with big economy improvements for the diesel models. Extras like Bluetooth add to the price, which starts at €21,325 before delivery charges.

New styling for Focus MICHAEL MORONEY took the entry-level diesel model of the new Ford Focus into Wicklow and found the car smooth and efficient

The BMW M3 Pick-up

HE new Ford Focus takes the Focus design along an evolutionary route that’s modern and distinctive, but not too different from the past. The car’s design is sharper and more defined, giving it a more modern look on the outside.

In the day following its recent launch, I took the entry 95bhp version fitted with a 1.6-litre turbo-diesel engine for a drive down the Wicklow coast. It was a pleasant day and the mix of motorway driving, with the opportunity to savour the delights of the Garden County through the minor roads, provided a good test for Ford’s new entry.

Ford has boosted the power

T

SPECS: FORD FOCUS 1.6TDCI Top speed: 170km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 12.5 sec Economy: Economy 23.8 km/litre (4.2l/100km) CO2 emissions: 109g/km Road Tax Band: A (€104) Scrappage Eligible: Yes Warranty: 2 years Entry Price: €21,325

from this compact diesel engine. The output at 95bhp is now 5bhp more than the outgoing car that it replaces.

The engine torque also gets a boost and that brings with it a marginal improvement in acceleration to give a faster feeling car.

The acceleration pace of

the new Focus compares well with the competition. While the bigger engine Volkswagen Golf can outpace it from a standing start and Toyota’s smaller engine Auris diesel is marginally faster, it can still hold its own in that respectable competition.

Ford now fits a new sixspeed gearbox to this entrylevel car, up from the five speed in the previous model.

During my morning test drive, I found the sixth gear useful on the motorway areas and it helped to keep the car economical to drive.

T he overall economy emphasis for the new Focus is noticeable – this car is marginally better in km to the

litre compared with the older model. You should get an extra kilometre for every litre of diesel with this new Focus.

That puts the new Focus as among the most economical cars in its class, with a rating of 23.8 kilometres per litre (4.2l/100km on the brochure).

That’s a better performance than BMW’s 116d with EfficientDynamics, putting the new Focus at the top of the class in terms of meeting the needs for lower running costs.

Add to that a CO2 emission level of just 109g/km and you get a low €104 annual road tax cost for a car that’s modern, sure to be reliable and hold its value. The Ford Focus deal is good. At €21,325, for

the entry-level model – this is about €300 cheaper than the car that it replaces.

There’s a lot more in the deal, including little change in price. The entry-level Focus features comes with Stability Protection (ESP) with traction assist, Ford Intelligent Protection System, body colour bumpers, mirrors and spoiler for the five-door model, electric front windows, power door mirrors, remote central locking with flip key, stereo radio/CD with USB connectivity and capless refuelling.

This new Focus will sell well and hold its value well. Ford has retained the great driving feel of the Focus with even better economy.

Windsor Motors carry out stress test on prices WINDSOR Motors claims to have carried out their own stress test on new car prices and the results are now out. Their prices have passed the test and have now hit rock bottom. Prices on new cars, 2011 scrappage prices and 2010 low-mileage models have all been reduced.

Windsor is offering over €7,000

off the price of a new Qashqai Plus 2 seven-seater and over €5,000 off the price of a 2011 Nissan Tiida with scrappage.

Scheme

The scrappage scheme will finish shortly, so Windsor advises new car buyers not to miss the chance to avail

of the great scrappage discounts now available across the range.

And as scrappage is available on models within tax band A and B, it also means you will qualify for low road tax. Windsor Motors branches have car finance packages available and have very high approval rates and deal with a number of banks.

According to Windsor CEO, Gabriel Keane: “At Windsor Motors the customer is our focus and, with this stress test, we can now offer even greater savings to our customers. Our stress test proves that our prices have passed the test and I invite customers to visit our showrooms to take a look for themselves.”

14 April 2011 GAZETTE 19

M50

W

20 GAZETTE 14 April 2011

PROPERTY

ST JAMES’ WALK: APARTMENTS AND HOUSES REDUCED

Herberton residences great value for buyers Sellers should be assured their houses will sell PEOPLE who are keen to put their houses on the market but who are put off by concerns about the current environment should not be afraid to press on with their intentions, according to a new report from Lisney.

In the repor t, they state that a family house, priced correctly, will generally sell.

They report that activity in the second-hand homes market increased i n t h e l a s t we e k s o f 2010 and in the opening months of 2011 as a direct result of the sweeping changes to stamp duty rates in December’s budget, citing numerous transactions being completed and more at contract stage as a result.

“Indeed, since Christmas,” said a Lisney rep-

Sherry Fitzgerald seek new staff SHERRY FitzGerald are currently recruiting two positions in their Terenure and Dalkey branches.

They are looking for customer service/ administrative assistants to work in their busy offices.

resentative, “we have experienced an increase in the number of parties viewing proper ty and making offers.

“In some cases, we are witnessing competition amongst buyers to secure the purchase.

“This is particularly the case for realistically priced, good family homes for which there is strong demand.”

However, they also state that agreeing a sale on a property and getting contracts signed has become increasingly difficult: “Whilst we are seeing more purchasers who are in the market to purchase, lending practises by banks have not improved and, in some cases, securing credit has become even more difficult.”

The role in Terenure is for a part-time adminstrative assistant to work from 10am to 3pm, Monday to Friday, while the role in the Dalkey branch is a job-sharing branch administrator, five days on, five days off, working from 9am to 6pm.

For more information, contact them directly on 01 237 6316.

A NEW phase of houses and apartments has just been released for sale at Herberton at St. James’s Walk, just off South Circular Road and close to St James’s Hospital.

T he development has been meticulously planned and designed to attract discerning owner-occupiers seeking stylish, contemporary homes.

A new phase of four houses and 11 apartments has been launched onto the market at substantially reduced prices, with reductions of up to 60% per unit from peak prices.

The one bedroom apartments (485-580sq ft) are priced from €105,000 and the two-bedroom apar tments (690-800sq ft) are from €149,950. The threebedroom apartments (1,000-1,150sq ft) are from €210,000, while the threebedroom houses (1,050sq ft) are €199,950.

Herberton comprises a rich mix of uses, including residential, shopping and leisure facilities. It offers discerning homebuyers something innovative in

There are a range of properties at reduced prices on offer at Herberton

Dublin city, having all the best that a self-contained village has to offer.

Apartments have been designed and orientated to take advantage of the views across the city in many instances and generous balconies are included to maximise these superb vistas.

Many of the apartments also incorporate large glazed areas to living spaces

in order to give a sense of light and spaciousness not commonly found in similar developments.

Attention to detail has been given throughout all of the apartments where only the most modern fittings and appliances are used in the kitchen and bathroom suites. There are high standards of finish throughout with handcrafted wardrobes

and other fittings.

The joint selling agents, Hooke & MacDonald and C o l d we l l B a n ke r, h ave released for sale 15 apartments from the new show units on site.

T hey are on view by appointment with either of the joint selling agents (Coldwell Banker tel. 01-411 0012 or Hooke & MacDonald tel. 01-631 8402).

BALLYBRACK: THREE-BED LIVING FOR €258,000

Ideal choice for Park life GU N N E R e s i d e n t i a l i s bringind to the market No 28 Davitt Park, a three-bedroom end-of-terrace home extending to 820 sq ft, presented in pristine decorative order with a bright interior.

The property boasts a large secluded wraparound garden with obvious potential to extend subject to planning permission.

The accommodation comprises entrance hall with solid oak floor, living room to the front of the house with open fireplace, and double doors to the kitchen, which features a range of floor and

wall units, tiled floor and which has double doors opening onto the large, secluded rear garden.

The bedrooms feature built-in wardrobes and television points, and the bathroom has tiled walls and floor, a Mira Elite electric shower over bath with telephone shower and a heated towel rail.

Outside the proper ty, a side access leads to the large wraparound, secluded rear garden which is mainly lawned and bordered by attractive, well-stocked flower beds.

Number 28, Davitt Park, Ballybrack

There is also a block-built, plumbed utility shed with fitted shelves that provides extra storage and a shed.

For more information, or to arrange a viewing, contact Gunne Residential on 01 280 1719.

14 April 2011 GAZETTE 21

M50

BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Sandra Dunne, general manager, energie fitness, Rathfarnham

A healthy outlook on helping clients SANDRA Dunne is the general manager of energie fitness club in Rathfarnham.

The outlet is part of Ireland’s leading fitness club group, with nine clubs in Leinster offering swimming and gym facilities and a unique “six week’s results guaranteed” programme.

The fitness chain launched in Ireland in October, 2010, bringing a wide range of health and fitness expertise gained from their experience in more than 100 clubs in Britain, Latvia, Qatar and Egypt.

Unfortunately, says Sandra, obesity is on the rise in Ireland, with recent statistics indicating that one-in-four adults are obese, and one-in-four Irish children are overweight, with obesity rates increasing by 40% in Ireland in the past 10 years.

There is no quick or easy solution.

However, she says the chain’s step-bystep six-week programme can help people to set achievable goals, and support them with in-house expertise in fitness and positive nutrition.

At energie, Sandra says staff want to empower people to transform their lives, be active, tone up, lose weight, and to try new activities, from swimming to a wide range of classes, and above all, to have fun.

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS A MUM’S HOME GIFTED OR SWAPPED Q - My widowed mother lives in a four-bed detached house valued at c.€400,000 and I live with my husband and two young daughters in a two-bed townhouse. I am an only child, and my mother has suggested we swap houses, as her home is too big for her. What are the tax and inheritance implications ? Laura - Milltown A - This depends on whether your mother wants to permanently gift you her home, or if it is just a straight swap and no legal contract is required. As regards inheritance, as a daughter, you are eligible to receive tax-free from your mother €332,084, over which you pay 25% tax – called Capital Acquisition Tax (CAT). This means, if your mum gifts you her home, either before or after she dies, you would have to pay €16,979 CAT. You would also have to pay stamp duty if the property were to be put in your name – 1% which would be another €4,000, plus legal costs. One option that could save you money would be to move into your mother’s home, letting her remain, and keeping the home in her name. When she passes on, as long as you have been living in the home with her for at least three years, and you have no other property at the time of your mum’s passing – you would have to sell the townhouse

Sandra Dunne

– your mother’s home would not be included in her estate for tax purposes. You would also have to continue living in your

She says that energie Rathfarnham teach swimming competence and water safety for both children and adults, with large swimming pools that are the perfect place to train or relax after a busy day.

She adds: “At energie fitness, we like to have fun. We foster clubs within our club

with coffee mornings, charity initiatives, members’ social evenings and, with the good weather, we’ll be bringing our club outdoors more with running and walking clubs.”

To find out more about energie fitness, whether to arrange a tour or find out about classes, see www.energiefitness.ie.

mother’s home for another six years after she passes on; otherwise, there would be a clawback. Stamp duty would still be payable at that point. Make sure you air all these issues before deciding to do anything, and take professional advice.

REDUNDANCY LUMP SUM Q – I was made redundant and have €42,000 to put on deposit. I have nothing planned at this moment, but may use the money in about six months to start my own busi-

Q&A Q: When you were a kid, what did you want to be?

A: I always thought I would be a teacher but, by the time I left secondary school, I knew I would work with sport somehow.

Q: What was your first job?

A: I did lots of caddying and babysitting as a teenager, but my first full-time job was a leisure attendant in a local swimming pool.

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: I can’t remember, but I recall being chuffed to bits!

Q: When did you start your present job?

A: I started with energie on January 4, 2011.

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: The members; they’re great, and they make the club.

Q: What part of your work-

ness. Where is the safest place for it, and best rates at the moment? Peter – Churchtown

ing day do you ‘delegate’?

A: I am lucky enough to have some great managers working with me and, if it’s their area, I generally delegate responsibility for it.

Q: What music/pictures/ movies do you have on your iPod/iPad? A: Cold Play, Take That, Travis, Snow Patrol and a bit of Chicago.

Q: What sport do you follow?

A: I love watching tennis and

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: Des Bishop.

golf – I was rooting for Rory (McIlroy) in the Masters.

Q: What was your last Tweet/status update?

A: That I am delighted to be

Q: What sport can you play?

A: I loved sport as a teenager and I played golf, tennis, hockey and badminton, so all of those, though I’m a bit rusty at the moment.

Q: What is your guilty music/TV or movie pleasure?

A: “Chicago” for music, “Come dine with me” for TV, and “Officer and a Gentleman” for a movie.

Q: Who best represents modern Ireland – David Norris or Jedward?

A: Neither!

doing the next Niall Mellon Township Trust Build this November.

Q: Describe your dream meal?

A: Great food served in a lovely restaurant, in great company and accompanied by a lovely red wine.

Q: Who would you rather have dinner with – Enda Kenny or Dame Edna?

A: Dame Edna; she’s hilari-

spending money frivolously?

A: Kildare Shopping Village;

A - The National Treasury Management Agency manage all the

I also love the coffee shop in Wicklow town for its fab berry scones!

are guaranteed to June of this year for any amount by the

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: At least 30, but I probably

per customer [while British and other such “deposit takers”

only wear five. I have a fetish for expensive running shoes.

ALL at least 1% better than the best bank or building society

range of State savings products, and all Irish deposit takers Eligible Liabilities Guarantee Scheme; underpinning this is the Deposit Protection Scheme, which guarantees up to €100,000 financial institutions are – generally – similarly guaranteed].

As for the best rates , all the State saving products are nearly deposit offerings. If you are prepared to wait the FULL 10 years on the National Solidarity Bond, this has the best return of all

Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: Camping in Cornwall; I nearly set fire to the campsite trying to cook sausages!

– a gross 5.41% would have to be offered by a DIRT-deducting deposit taker (DIRT was recently increased to 27%, so for every €1 earned in interest, the Government takes 27c).

Outside of our State savings products, Bank of Ireland’s online 15-month fixed deposit account, at 3.58%, is the best; you still

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: New Zealand.

pay 27% DIRT on this, leaving a net 2.6134%. However, as you

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: To own and manage my

can only make six withdrawals a year to maintain this rate).

own gym.

can be facilitated on a same-day basis with both. Best of luck!

ous.

Q: What do you plan to do when you retire?

A: Play lots of golf and

Q: Where do you enjoy

bridge, and have some fabulous holidays.

may wish to start your own business, the best demand deposit account over €20,000 is Nationwide UK’s at 3.15% (but you Anglo Irish Bank offer 3.1% on demand – both can be accessed online, and fund transfer requests back to your bank account

Contact John with your money questions at jlowe@ moneydoctor.ie or visit his website at www.moneydoctor.ie. John Lowe, Fellow of the Institute of Bankers, is founder and managing director of Money Doctor

22 GAZETTE 14 April 2011

GazetteTravel Travel FastTravel Six Nations weekend a triumph at Ice House Second year in a row as London tops poll as the city break of choice for Irish

LONDON has topped the list as the most popular overseas destination for Irish holidaymakers for the second year in a row, according to the latest Hotels.com Hotel Price Index (HPI®). The latest report shows that London was the most visited city by Irish holidaymakers in 2010, beating off stiff competition from popular cities such as New York and Barcelona.

With fares starting from as little as €28 one-way, including taxes and a free 20kg baggage allowance, bmi, British Midland International, fly up to four times daily direct from Dublin to London Heathrow so there are no excuses not to hop across the water and see what this actionpacked city has on offer for you.

The Hotels.com Hotel Price Index (HPI®) is a survey of hotel prices in major city destinations across the world.

For more information on bmi, visit www.flybmi.com or contact your local travel agent.

CORMAC CURTIS

Crystal Summer offering big discounts for the early-bird holiday bookers PLAN ahead and make sure everything is perfect for your 2011 summer holiday. Receive €50 off per person for all holidays to Austria, Germany, Italy and Slovenia when you book with Crystal Summer.

Crystal Summer offer the perfect locations to unwind and soak up some awe-inspiring scenery at picturesque lakeside locations. Whether it’s cycling through the Austrian Alps or spending long days relaxing by Lake Garda, Crystal Summer has the perfect holiday option for you.

Offer is valid for all new bookings to all resorts in Austria, Germany and Italy and selected resorts in Slovenia.

Slovenian resorts include Kranjska Gora, Lake Bled and Lake Bohinj when travelling via Salzburg.

Limited availability. Terms and conditions apply. Offer is valid for seven-night bookings with flights and accommodation for travel May or June only and is not applicable on flight or accommodation only. Offer not applicable in conjunction with any other offer.

Call Crystal Summer on 014331080, call into Crystal’s shop on Duke Street, just off Grafton Street in the centre of Dublin or contact your local travel agent.

THE STAR rating is quickly becoming a less-than-reliable gauge for deciding on a hotel.

Let’s face it, there was a time when people said: “Let’s take a break in Donegal, where can we stay?”

These days, people are far more likely to ask: “What good hotels have you heard of lately, I’d love to get away!”

The destination has become less important than the accommodation - as busy, working couples and families try to find the perfect mix of dining, comfort, ambience, activities and, perhaps most importantly, value for money.

Unfortunately, different hotels, with wildly dissimilar levels of service, can share the same star rating.

This is why people really like to know more about where they are planning to stay.

Out west, those looking for luxurious accommodation, sensational food, and a terrific spa, need look no further than the Ice House, a hotel to which star ratings really are meaningless.

After becoming one of the fastest ever entrants in to Ireland’s Blue Book, the bible of quality hotels and restaurants in Ireland, the Ice House has become a firm favourite for those taking a break from it all.

Perched on the edge of the River Moy estuary at The Quay in Ballina, Co Mayo, the Ice House is a simple and beautiful mix of crisp, clean, modern architectural devices

melded effortlessly with the original, iconic building that has stood on the site since the mid-1800s.

The hotel takes its name from its original function as a source of ice. The ice was used to preserve not only the vast amounts of fish that were caught in and exported from the area; it also provided ice for two local breweries.

Contemporary styling and historic significance aside, it is the ease and genuinely welcoming nature of the management team of Dara Cruise and Claire O’Sullivan, ably assisted by their staff, that lifts this hotel to its deserved place in not only the Blue Book, but also in the hearts of its guests.

to enjoy a spa treatment, as my wife did, leaving plenty of time for a stroll along the river before dinner.

I must admit, the bathrooms here are luxurious enough for yours truly to skip the whole spa routine – a long soak in the really deep bath in the beautifully appointed, modern bathroom for a good half an hour or so sees me right as rain.

Having said that, after a facial and a head, neck and shoulder massage at the expert hands of a therapist at the Chill Spa, my better half came back truly transformed, with stress nothing more than a distant memory.

After a little time relax-

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

‘You will want to enjoy a meal in the stunning Pier Restaurant, but not immediately following two hours of screaming at the Irish rugby team’ ------------------------------------------------------------------

I have been lucky enough to visit the Ice House on two occasions, most recently during the Six Nations’ rugby championship.

It’s important to plan a trip to the Ice House properly.

You will want to enjoy a meal in their stunning Pier Restaurant, but not immediately following two hours of screaming at the Irish rugby team on the big screen in one of the many charming pubs in Ballina.

So, if you can, get there the day before, and arrive early

ing with a little music in the incredibly comfortable Nugget suite and a quick stroll, and we were ready for dinner in the Pier Restaurant.

And what an experience the food here is.

I decided some Dunmore East crab, served with Granny Smith apple, coriander and organic leaf salad, vanilla mayonnaise and avocado cream was too good to pass up.

My good lady wife was of the opinion that a bowl of creamed celeriac and parmesan soup with sautéed lamb’s

The stunning view from the Chill

kidney, apple and balsamic was the way forward.

We were both right. Stunning starters with a very reasonably priced, and delicious, sauvignon blanc, and we were two for two.

Our mains were flawless, mine being a dish of seared rabbit loin served with fricassee of autumn mushrooms, ballotine of rabbit leg and black pudding with pommery mustard and tarragon.

A triumph of local produce that I could have taken home and married if the law only allowed it.

The other side of the beautifully laid table was in a fishy mood, and opted for panseared fillets of sea bass with curry spices, parsnip puree, shallots and red wine jus.

A divine creation that I hope to return for at some point, for a full helping.

After our meal, we set ourselves up by the bar to watch a little of the Wales v England match, and sampled some of the unusual vodkas on offer –

14 April 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23

TravelBriefs

Irish Tour Operator Sunway accepts honour from Lanzarote Tourism Board

Spa at the Ice House, where guests can enjoy every kind of treatment imaginable for a thoroughly de-stressing experience

SPECIAL EASTER OFFERS This Easter, why not indulge yourself at the Ice House Hotel?

Enjoy Dinner for two in the Award Winning 2 AA Rosette Pier Restaurant from their Spring A La Carte Menu.

Slow down with three nights luxurious accommodation and de-stress with unlimited time in their thermal suite.

Relax over a glass of bubbles and chocolatedipped strawberries on arrival, a lazy breakfast in bed and soak up the view.

And not forgetting the Easter-themed amenities for all guests over the Easter period.

Packages available from April 22 until April 25 This offer is for two adults sharing a deluxe room and costs €320 per adult for three nights. ask the bartender when you’re there, you won’t be disappointed.

We retired to our suite for the night and enjoyed a sleep that I won’t soon forget.

Despite the fact that the rooms at the Ice House boast floor-to-ceiling, panoramic windows, the black-out curtains ensure a room as dark as

pitch until you decide it’s time to get up – bliss.

A short drive to Enniscrone Beach is a must. On certain weekends the local equestrian club sets up jumps and bring the horses to the beach at low tide.

It is a stunning setting where you can get close to the action as the local riders pitch them-

selves against each other.

After this, we enjoyed a quick bowl of the sensational seafood chowder at the Ice House before spending a day sampling the hospitality of the many charming pubs in Ballina.

For a really good local Chinese restaurant – might I recommend Love Lee’s, just ask

anyone in the town and they’ll tell you how to get there.

We put our feet up and enjoyed some of the impressive digital entertainment back in our room to finish off the night, before one more good night’s sleep, as thoughts started to drift back towards home, children, work… and planning a return trip to Ballina!

THE good friendship between the Sunway travel company and Lanzarote was celebrated recently when the Lanzarote Tourism Board and the Fariones Hotel Group paid special tribute to the tour operator for its loyalty to the island, and especially to the Puerto del Carmen area.

Sunway’s founder, Jim Furlong, and his daughter, Tanya Airey, the firm’s managing director, were present for the occasion.

Sunway was founded as a travel agency in 1966 and became a tour operator in 1992. Mr.Furlong emphasised the welcome the people of Lanzarote had given to the Irish, a welcome which has been repaid by the Irish Travel Agents Association’s selection of Lanzarote for nine consecutive years as the favourite sun destination for Irish holidaymakers.

He said he much preferred the Lanzarote of today to that of 15 or 16 years ago, citing the improvements to places like Puerto del Carmen, whose main avenue and streets have been renovated, though he remarked that some of the business premises needed a facelift to fit in with the new surroundings. He added that Lanzarote sells itself to the Irish, because it is so well-known.

The manager of the tourism council said the Irish market was very important for Lanzarote. He was hopeful of an improvement in the Irish economy following the intervention of the EU and the IMF, and said that Lanzarote would continue its joint marketing agreements with airlines and tour operators. Managing director, Tanya, said the company planned to continue its winter and summer packages this year

All ashore as 100,000 passengers on 84 cruise ships set to visit Dublin this year A TOTAL of 84 cruise ships will call to Dublin this year, bringing almost 100,000 passengers and 40,000 crew to the city.

The first cruise call to Dublin took place on, Saturday, April 9, when Boudicca, a Fred Olsen Cruise Liner, sailed in to Dublin Port.

Representatives from Dublin Tourism, the Regional Tourism Authority for Dublin, will board each cruise ship calling to Dublin this season, providing expert tourism information and advice to passengers. A dedicated cruise map, created in conjunction with Dublin Tourism partners will be distributed to cruise passengers.

Paul Hayden, acting chief executive of Dublin Tourism said: “The cruise market is a very important market to all of us involved in the tourism industry in Dublin. The influx of passengers and crew has a very real impact on retailers, visitor attractions and tours in the capital.”

24 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 14 April 2011

Gazette ENTERTAINMENT 1GoingOUT PAVILION 01 231 2929 Dance Celebration Irish National Youth Ballet celebrates the 15th anniversary of the Company. It promises to be a true reflection on how much this young company has grown artistically.

April 15, (12:00, 20:00) and April 16 (15:00, 20:00). Prices free to €18.

SEAMUS ENNIS CULTURAL CENTRE 01 802 0898 The Wiyos American roots music sensations, The Wiyos, made a huge impact following their BBC TV debut with Seasick Steve, filmed at The Barbican’s big Folk America extravaganza.

In 2009, they went out (by personal invitation) on a 27-date run of US baseball stadiums with Bob Dylan, and last year they wowed a capacity crowd at Celtic Connections festival in Glasgow and were then invited back over the Atlantic for Shetland Folk Festival.

Saturday, April 16 at 8:30pm. Admission: €16.

THE HELIX 01 700 7000 Back to The 80s Back to the 80s is a fun-filled musical packed with classic songs of the era that make this show burst off the stage.

Wednesday to Friday, April 13 to 15 at 8pm, 3pm Matinee, Thursday 14 Tickets: €20/Conc: €15.

Look behind you ... Perhaps Amanda Seyfried (AKA Valerie, AKA Red Riding Hood) senses a middle-aged cinema reviewer on the

The Coronas Ireland has been home to some of the most influential artists ever to grace the world stage. The Coronas are no exception and they are bringing their frantic, high-energy live show to The Helix this April. Don’t miss your opportunity to catch this intimate performance as you can be sure they are destined for the top.

Wednesday, April 20 at 8.30pm. Tickets €14.

MILL THEATRE 01 296 9340 An Inspector Calls Sandyford Little Theatre presents this famous play written by English dramatist J B Priestley, An upper-crust English family dinner is interrupted by a police inspector who brings news that a girl known to everyone present has died in suspicious circumstances.

April 12 to 16 at 8pm. Admission: €18/€15

Boolabus Youth Theatre Boolabus Youth Theatre present an evening of one-act plays, to include new writing, devised and classical pieces.

April 19 to 21 at 8pm. Admission: €10/€5

DRAIOCHT 01 885 2622 Spreacha 2011 Draiocht’s annual week-long international arts festival for children is guaranteed to spark all our imaginations for a full eight days in April. Spreacha shows are perfect for school groups and families with events programmed in and out of school time.

April 13 to 20. See www.draiocht.ie/spreacha/

CIVIC THEATRE 01 4627477 Noctu The subject of the soon-to-air RTE series, Dance Off, Noctu is a new departure for the Irish Dance show genre. It strives to tell the story of Irish Dance from the viewpoint of the dancer.

April 18 to 23. Check www.civictheatre.ie for times and prices.

Up and Over It As seen on the Late Late Show International Irish Dance superstars Suzanne Cleary and Peter Harding present their electro-pop inspired, alternative Irish Dance show. It’s out with the old velvet-clad, tin-whistle-blowing, diddly-idleness and in with a high-octane, multimedia leap into 2011. This is Irish Dance for the post-pop generation.

April 19 to 23. Check www.civictheatre.ie for times and prices.

The Bad Arm – Confessions of a Dodgy Irish Dancer Written and performed by Máire Clerkin, The Bad Arm – Confessions of a Dodgy Irish Dancer is an uproarious, yet poignant, one-woman play.

April 18 to 23. Check www.civictheatre.ie for times and prices.

rampage in the woods, as Kate prepares to pounce on a film that’s made her see red – and without even a full moon in sight

It’s a big howler ...

Kate thinks it’s a beastly affair, but undemanding teens will probably wolf down this Twilight-ish tale KATE CROWLEY

NORMALLY, I have a huge weakness for bad films and cliched television, finding myself glued to the television if I spy the opening credits of Murder She Wrote (where younger readers may notice my old friend, Jessica Fletcher, using a great, great, great cave-dwelling ancestor of an iPad to bash out her latest meisterwerk).

Unfortunately, this same tolerance for guilty-pleasure trash-tv does not extend to moronic movies, where, as Einstein might have put it, a mere minute can seem like a very long time indeed, relatively speaking. Quite.

And, one thing’s for sure – there weren’t no Einsteins toiling over the script to Red Riding Hood. Do I still have to review this fairytale folly? (“Yes.” – Ed.) Sigh. Okay.

Somewhere, some high-fiving Hollywood execs decided that “Twilight” + an old fairy tale = sackfuls of dosh, which is, presumably, how this tosh made it to our screens.

Gigantic-eyed Valerie

Film of the Week: Red Riding Hood (12A) 99 mins Director: Catherine Hardwicke Starring: Amanda Seyfried, Gary Oldman, Julie Christie, Lukas Haas

OUR VERDICT: SILVER bullets! Holy water! Garlic!

What, exactly, does Kate need to finish off a string of these trite monster movies? Red Riding Hood certainly leaves her seeing red ...

(Amanda Seyfried, or “Red”, as I’m calling her from now on) lives in a typical Ye Olde Village, full of wrinkled old women (aged over 30), comely lassies, hunky suitors, oddly inappropriate traditional village dances, and strange local customs that see regular, monthly animal sacrifices to appease a nearby beast.

So far, so normal, and this wouldn’t sound so out of place in dear old Donegal, where wee Kate spent many a happy summer as a lass with Granny, sans any werewolf problems.

However, interfering with Red’s plans to go and chop some wood with Peter (Shiloh Fernandez), her parents have

bethrothed her to another.

While Red and Peter work out what they’re going to do about this, a werewolf attack sees her sister slain, and the village put on high alert, as this move by the nearby werewolf is but the prelude to other, deadlier attacks.

Jumping along a little and, after a little Rentamob action, the villagers have caught and killed a wolf. Hurrah! Their ordeal is over! Of course not.

Cue the arrival of Gary Oldm- whoops, Father Solomon (Gary Oldman, in his usual scenery-chewing mode, and never so far from his understated performance as decent Jim Gordon in the recent Batman films), who declares that The Wolf! Is! One of YOU! At this point, I admit that my attention began to drift off a little, as I started trying to weigh up Oldman’s good films versus his many, many bad ones, and (“Get on with it, Crowley.” – Ed.) Sigh.

Yes, indeedy, the big, bad werewolf is one of the villagers, but whoooo? Could it be

Grandma, out in the woods (oh, Julie Christie ...)? Peter, the woodcutter? Bobby Ewing?

There’s only one way to find out – Red better traipse off out to Grandma’s, and find out who the wolf (which she has a special connection with) is...

It’s often been argued that there are only seven basic stories to tell, whether in publishing or through cinema, yet this one seems to be derivative of only one – the aforementioned Twilight series.

Sure, there are some nice shots here and there, and even some pretty cinematography to admire – albeit in a pointlessly over-stylised way, like a 1980s French pop video.

However, a hopeless script, Oldman’s mugging and Christie’s slumming, lashings and lashings of angst, an overwrought plot and – oh, great, I’m almost finished! Yay! Folks, if you’re really interested in a time-honoured fairytale, stick with your old books.

They may be a little Grimm, but the shaggiest old tale is still worthier of your consideration than this beastly film ...

14 April 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25

TECHNOLOGY Links to entertainingly far-fetched Tweeters

Some tweet machine favourites ADAM MAGUIRE

WHEN a potentially lethal snake went missing in New York Zoo, the cobra became known across the world almost instantly. It also got its own Twitter account.

Called @BronxZoosCobra, this account is the latest in a long line of spoofs that have appeared on Twitter.com.

This is where parody versions of people, things and even places are created t o p o ke fun and raise a few smiles.

Other examples in recent times include one that claimed to be the account of one of the trapped Chilean miners but, like the missing snake’s account, it was restricted to a short lifespan.

So, here are a few of the funniest spoof accounts that have been up and running

for some time, and that show no signs of stopping any time soon ...

@DarthVader The legendary villain from the Star Wars series is also a keen Tw i t terer, it appears.

Be it commentary on news events, information about the Empire, or even a look into Vader’s softer side, this account has plenty worth reading. @FakeAPstylebook T he Associated Press Stylebook is a well-known resource for writers looking to hone their craft.

The Fake version of it, available on Twitter amongst other places, is quite the opposite.

Some of the best writing advice includes: “Remember what happens when you assume. Frankly, you save yourself a lot of work” and “Do not be afraid to use exclamation points in your writing. They can sense fear.”

@ChuckNorris_ What would the internet be without Chuck Norris jokes?

A much more boring place, that is for sure.

So it was inevitable someone would set up a Twitter account claiming to be Chuck Norris, or at least warning you about his lethal nature.

Just in case you were in any doubt about Norris’ skills, the account assures us that he can do a wheelie on a unicycle and slam a revolving door.

Impressive.

Apple iPad 2 The long-awaited update to Apple’s game-changing tablet

is a device well worth having, though only if you do not own an iPad already.

When the iPad launched last year, it changed things.

Tablets already existed, of course, but none had the instant appeal and allure that Apple was able to offer.

Since then, a number of rival devices have come to the market, and many have been good.

However, none has been great.

The iPad 2 can be considered a baby step forward for Apple – taking that great device from last year, and making a few minor adjustments to keep it competitive.

The device now sports a slimmer, lighter body, a faster processor, and a couple of cameras.

But, beyond that, it is much the same as what came before.

However, that is far from an insult, as the original iPad really was a truly superb machine.

For anyone who has used an iPhone or an iPod Touch, this device will feel very familiar. The software is much the same, albeit on a bigger screen, and the way you interact with apps is identical.

What makes the iPad 2 so great really is its software too, which is so easy to use and logical that even a small child would feel at home with it.

The device is always-on,

so there is no need to boot it up and wait, and its intuitive design makes it easy to use for so many things, from e-mailing to watching videos or playing games.

There are plenty of apps – free and premium – that you can download, meaning you can customise the device as you like, and even replace a lot of what you currently do on a PC with it.

If you already own an iPad, you are not going to miss out on a whole lot by not getting the iPad 2, unless you really want a camera.

However, if you are thinking of getting a device like this, there is still nothing better than what Apple have to offer.

The iPad 2 is available from store. apple.com/ie, from €479 upwards.

Visit teic.ie for the latest tech news, reviews and views.

GAZETTE

26 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 14 April 2011

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PLANNING NOTICE SOUTH DUBLIN COUNTY COUNCIL Gary Hansard is applying for Planning Permission for South facing 3 bedroom detached dormer bungalow at rear of 47 Dodsboro Cottages, Dodsboro, Lucan, Co. Dublin with pedestrian and vehicular access through No. 47 Dodsboro Cottages,Dodsboro, Lucan, Co. Dublin.

This Planning Application may be inspected or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy at the offices of South Dublin County Council during its public opening hours of 9 a.m.-4 p.m. MondayFriday and a submission or observation may be made to South Dublin County Council in writing and on payment of the prescribed fee (€20.00) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt

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14 April 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT Gazette SPORT

RUN FOR THE SUN: Great Ireland Run another huge success in Phoenix Park: Page 29

HOCKEY: DEFEAT IN FINAL GAME IRRELEVANT AS BOOTERSTOWN SIDE TAKE CROWN

Hermes celebrate Leinster league title WOMEN’S DIVISION 1 Hermes UCD STEPHEN FINDLATER sport@gazettegroup.com

2 4

HERMES lost the battle but won the war when their exploits earlier this season were enough to see them over the line and win the Leinster women’s division one hockey league last Saturday at Belfield.

The Booterstown club fell 4-2 on Saturday to UCD, leaving them wondering if Loreto could pull off an improbable nine-goal win against Railway Union in the final game of the season.

But it did not accrue as Loreto could only move out as far as 3-0 before being reeled back in, leaving them level on points with Hermes but with an inferior goal tally.

A sleepy first half was briefly enlivened by Caitriona McGilp’s goal and Gillian Pinder’s autopass score from a five-metre free.

But the second half was rip-roaring and end-to-end.

Anna O’Flanagan banged home from close range from the second phase of a penalty corner to establish a Hermes lead.

Jenny Burke and Deirdre Duke had a gilt-edge chance

to strengthen that lead but Stella Davis did well to snuff out the two strikers closing in on her goal.

Chloe Watkins, meanwhile, clipped the outside of the post with a diving, reverse sweep after stealing the ball from Emma Gray.

The students were level f o l l ow i n g a r i g h t- w i n g attack, which McGilp swept in at the near post to register a brace against her former club.

And her side hit the front from a top move. Brenda Flannery found Emily Menzies deep on the left-wing and she did well to get a cross for the waiting Jess

Hermes’ Audrey O’Flynn, Gillian Pender and Anna O’Flanagan celebrate

McMickan on the back post to tap in.

Flannery’s straight strike made it 4 -2 while Lisa Jacob’s top reverse drew an equally high-quality save from Davis. In the end, it

proved immaterial but the second half was a joy to behold in all its carefree glory.

Loreto ended the season equal on 44 points but they will rue draws against UCD

and Old Alex late in the season, especially against the students, having led 3-0 before being pegged back when the title race was firmly in the hands of the Beaufort side.

28 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 14 April 2011

GazetteSport Sport Rugby

FastSport

Barnhall U-19s claim the Metro League Cup title week, Ireland’s panel STBarnhall’s PATRICK’s Under-19 Day 2007. side put onLast a fine display to annex of 15 headed to theat 2011 Turning the Metro points League are Cup ten-atitle against Greystones De veringround India, bristling penny La Salle in sporting Palmerston’s parlance.

Kirwansion Park last week.with confidence determined All-Ireland Scoring six tries football in theand process, Barnhall and impressed to to continue their growth on hurling take the winning tie onteams a 43-14 often scoreline. the worldand stage. pinpoint Based on some a solid obscure set piece at scrum lineout, and They were seen off the earlier training with a ground solid defence incident throughout, in Barnhall started atina the packed media briefing mid-winter game wellorbylow scoring ebb intwo thetries first 20 minutes in the RSA Dwyer.

– Cricket IreNational from Nick League Das Neves-Jones campaign and Stephen land’s title sponsors offices before A further rising from penalty the from ashesDwyer shortly after left –the in Dundrum, reflecting the to score glory.at 17-0 with half-time beckoning.

However, interest now agenerated But, Greystones for Irish took cricket, a quick thepenalty and, after couple of by the tangible quick phases, nature of got their their tranreward byside. scoring a try under Dubliner Niall O’Brien sition the posts, from hope leaving to expectathe halftime score at 17-7. seesopening the seismic tion,Barnhall from postman countered to prowith a wryly try in the min- shift he Mickey made Maher his debut fessional, utes of the cansecond primarily half, be whensince fullback pinpointed touched down to that in the famous corner. back in 2002 - a low-key tie againstQuinn, Denmark little day Another when they try rocked from hooker, the Emmet cameto after fanfare – to the place established great forwards order driving by beating play, and Barnhall were wellwhere on anthrough nationalNeves-Jones papers will carry Pakistan top, scoring in thea 2007 further World two tries a dailyperformance. diary for the duration Cup and Dwyer to seal a commanding

RUGBY: DIVISION 1 THE DESTINATION FOR GORDON PARK CLUB

Clondalkin settled their promotion play-off against Portarlington with decisive tries. PIctures: Sharon Flanagan

Clon get promotion at last LEINSTER LEAGUE PLAY-OFF Clondalkin Portarlington JONNY STAPLETON

36 15

clondalkinsport@gazettegroup.com

CLONDALKIN RFC will play Leinster League Division 1 rugby for the first time in their history after the first team produced when it mattered most, defeating Portarlington in the relegation/ promotion play-off in Athy last Sunday.

It had looked as though the fat lady was warming up and about to sing time on their hopes of playing at the higher level, when Clondalkin looked destined to blow promotion for the second successive season, dropping out of the top two automatic promotion places with a string of five consecutive defeats over the last two months.

However, the Gordon Park side ripped up the form book when they won the biggest game in the club’s history to put Clon just two

promotions shy of professional rugby.

Clon’ started the Athyhosted tie like they had finished their last few games, and found themselves 8-0 behind early on.

Their opponents turned a potential Clondalkin score into a Portarlington fivepointer when their winger broke the length of the pitch seconds after David Jebb had flirted with the line.

C l o n d a l k i n , h owe ve r, didn’t capitulate, and began to dominate against a side they beat twice previously last year.

Fittingly, the scrum, which has been solid all season, was the catalyst behind the score that got Clon’ back in contention.

Winger Gary Donnelly, who has looked threatening, but not lethal of late, finished superbly in the corner after Mark Molloy and Paul McDermott combined down the blind side.

Chris Jebb sent the conversion just wide of the post but

sailed over a penalty minutes later to leave the scores level 8-8 at the break.

Clondalkin extended the lead within seconds of the restart, and put themselves in promotion position.

Best score ever Portarlington knocked on straight from the second drop-off, and the smallest man on the park, Mark Molly, broke from the scrum to score probably the biggest try in the club’s history.

The veteran scrum-half’s grubber kick proved the ball to chase, and Molly won the race to touch down just inches before the dead ball line, to give Clon’ a 15-8 advantage, a lead they refused to give up.

A strong defensive shift was put in over the next few minutes as Portarligton began to battle for their Division 1 lives, but Clon answered all questions asked of them, and closed the door firmly on all opponent advances.

Penalty specialist Jebb and long-range drop-goal star, Steve Cunningham, both proceeded to split the posts and gave Clon’ some breathing space before the Division 2 side all but ensured a Leinster League upgrade with a finely worked try with 15 minutes to go.

Second row Kevin Cullen, who performed admirably throughout, set free prop Sean Dunne, who raced over the line to make the score 26-8 going into the closing stages.

Sub Kevin Kelly was then introduced and dismissed within a minute for a ruck infringement and, while the Gordon Park residents were down to 14 players, Portarligton scored their second try.

It proved nothing more than a consolation, however, as Jebb registered another penalty, and Simon King touched down his own block-down to wrap up the greatest win in Clondalkin’s history.

14 April 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 29

in association with

Great runners

FastSport

Over 11,000 runners shone in the sunshine at the 2011 SPAR Great Ireland Run last weekend with local interest at a premium in all events

OVER 11,000 people took to the tarmac for the SPAR Great Ireland Run and SPAR Junior Great Ireland Run in beautiful sunshine in the Phoenix Park last weekend.

In a carnival atmosphere, 1,000 children raced in the Junior Run over 2.5 km, which was started by Eddie

Hobbs, patron of the Jack & Jill Foundation, and Sonia O’Sullivan.

Dundrum South Dublin star Cassie Murphy won the girls’ race in a time of 10.45.

The children were followed by their adult counterparts, some 10,000 runners, joggers and walkers, who included Sean Gal-

lagher from Dragons’ Den, Evanne Ni Chuilinn from RTE Sport, former Ireland and Leinster hooker Shane Byrne (whose twin daughters ran the Junior Run) Maclean Burke from Fair City, Gillian Quinn, Lisa Fitzpatrick and many, many others.

British teenager, Charlotte Purdue, again showed her vast potential for the future when she was the runaway winner of the women’s race against much more experienced opponents.

The men’s title went to former European 5,000 metres gold-medallist, Jesus Espana of Spain, who broke clear with 1,200 metres to go. Defending champion, Martin Fagan of Ireland, was third.

The race doubles as the Athletics Ireland Irish 10k

Championships, and in that respect, there was plenty of local interest, with Joe Sweeney of DSD coming second in the Irish challenge, in a time of 30:42, and Sean Hehir of Rathfarnham AC was fifth in 31:19. Meanwhile, in the women’s race, Ava Hutchinson was third in the women’s race in a time of 34:43.

The Run is the only event in Ireland recognised by the International Association of Athletic Federations (IAAF) at Bronze Label level. As a result of the quality of this year’s event, the organisers will be submitting an application to the IAAF for Silver Label status for the 2012 SPAR Great Ireland Run, as they believe that all the required criteria may have been achieved to upgrade from bronze.

Cassie Murphy on her way to winning the Junior Girls’ race

Jannett Keane does the hard work as Chloe enjoys the park

Catriona Lindsay Russell, from Blanchardstown

Niamh Sheridan and Lorraine Morgan celebrate their 10k

Trap and Marco help to launch penalty contest AS PART of their fundraising efforts in aid of the Irish Homeless World Cup team, the national penalty shoot-out competition, sponsored by Continental Tyres, is set to take place in AUL, Clonshaugh, and Astro Park, Greenhills Road, Tallaght on Good Friday, April 22 at 10am, and there is still time for teams to enter the Dublin leg of the competition.

At the event’s recent launch, Ireland manager Giovanni Trapattoni and coach Marco Tardelli urged soccer fans to get behind the venture, in which the regional winners will receive €1,000 of Umbro kit, while the overall winners will receive six tickets for the Europa Cup Final and two nights accommodation in a Dublin 4 hotel.

Details and entry forms can be obtained from wwwirishstreetleague.com, or by calling Mick Pender on 087 127 3258 or Sean Kavanagh on 087 223 8108.

Francis holding local events

NAC to be venue for Fingal Sprint

ST FRANCIS football club will holding a fundraiser in the Dean Swift, Dublin 8, on Friday, May 27 in aid of one of their former players, Terry Hillard, who died recently, at an early age.

Club members are asked to please try and support this worthy cause for one of the legends of the club.

Meanwhile, the club will host their Easter Soccer Camp from April 25 to 29 in John Hyland Park.

The camp will run from 10.30am to 2pm every day for all kids aged five to 12, and it promises to be a great week of fun with qualified coaches in a safe environment.

The cost is €50 per child.

THE National Aquatic Centre will be the venue for the sixth annual Fingal Sprint triathlon on May 15, and organiser 3D Triathlon are calling on newcomers to triathlon and local youths to participate in the event.

3D Triathlon have also been invited by Triathlon Ireland to host the 2011 Inaugural National Youth Triathlon Championships, which will take the form of three races – the Fingal Sprint (age 18 and over), 2011 National Youth Championship (age 16-19) and Fingal Junior Aquathlon (ages 8-15).

If you are interested in taking part, registration details are available at www.fingalsprint.3dtri. com

30 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 14 April 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

SOCCER: UNITED GO SIX POINTS CLEAR IN SUNDAY SENIOR

Bluebell ring the leader’s bell in derby LSL SUNDAY SENIOR

Local star keeper helps launch FAI summer camps REPUBLIC of Ireland and St Francis goalkeeper, Megan Campbell, was on hand to help launch the FAI’s 2011 An Post Summer Soccer Schools programme at Home Farm’s grounds at Whitehall.

The five-day camps will see up to 23,000 children from all over Ireland participating at over 300 venues nationwide.

The An Post FAI Summer Soccer Schools offer children, from the ages of six to 14, a fun, safe and healthy summer activity. The camps provide value for money and are focused on high-quality coaching for children of all ability levels and experience.

Running from July 4 to the end of August, each week-long mainstream camp and two three-day goalkeeper camp is delivered by FAI-qualified coaches, all Garda-vetted, in a safe and professional environment.

Bluebell United 3 Dublin Bus 1 clondalkinsport@gazettegroup.com JONNY STAPLETON

BLUEBELL FC took a significant step towards the league title, defeating Dublin Bus with an impressive victory at the Red Cow last Sunday morning.

Gerry Bambrick’s fourth and fifth goals in two games proved the difference between the sides in what was a scrappy derby.

Bluebell are now six points clear of up-and-coming Wayside Celtic, with just six games to go. Bus, on the other hand, look likely to crash straight back out of amateur football’s top tier as they prop up the table.

Facing run-ins of opposing natures, the two managers

were singing from different hymn sheets after the tie.

Bluebell’s James Kelly was happy with the result, whilst Maxi of Dublin Bus was pleased with the performance, and thinks the Bus are only a bit of luck shy of a return to winning ways.

“It was a scrappy game and I am happy to take the points, I am not worried about the performance.

“I would have taken to be in contention with six games to go, so I am happy to be six clear, but there is a lot of football to be played, and Wayside have two games in hand over us,” Kelly told GazetteSport.

Bus’ manager said: “I thought we matched Bluebell for most of the game. The league leaders didn’t look more than two goals better than us. We are performing well of late, we just need the

Bluebell United have a six-point advantage and six matches to play to confirm the league championship

rub of the green to get the wins. We will keep fighting.”

The first half of this always enter taining derby was dogged to say the least, but Bluebell took a lead into the break when managers brother, Glen Kelly, took advantage of a defensive mix up to lob the keeper and make it 1-0.

Bus equalised after the turn, Niall Donnelly’s challenge giving Stewart Maher an opportunity from the penalty spot.

Brambrick then continued

his return to goal scoring form when he finished from inside the box after great work down the left from Gary Crowley.

Bus were still in contention at this stage, but when Ken Flood saw red , the tie was all but over.

Champions elect Bluebell took advantage of the player surplus and rounded off another impressive win via the boot of Bambrick, when the in-form striker converted the second penalty of the tie to seal the win.

14 April 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 31

in association with

AFL 5: LAST-GASP SCORE TAKES POINTS TO CLONDALKIN

Jason king as point powers Towers’ win AFL 5 Round Towers 0-17 Castleknock 2-10 STEPHEN FINDLATER clondalkinsport@gazettegroup.com

SUPER-sub Jason Mockler scored a last-ditch point to grab victory for Round Towers at the Clondalkin Community Centre to deny a Rory Corcoran-inspired Castleknock.

Indeed, the hosts will feel justice was finally done after ’Knock profited from a contentious first-half goal when the ball looked to be clearly over the sideline in the buildup.

Jerry Kelly kept playing while the Hoops’ defenders stalled, and Corcoran scrambled in his second goal for an imposing six-point lead.

It left former Towers’ man

Round Towers’ Alan Milton holds off Rory Corcoran

Close for Moyle: College pipped

by Prosperous AFTER a long and successful year, Moyle Park College’s footballers ended their year with defeat in the Leinster final to St Farnan’s of Prosperous last week.

The club, seen here celebrating their Dublin championship success, were denied at St Mary’s, Leixlip, by the battling Kildare side, with a final score of 3-3 to 2-11.

Tom McCormack – an AllIreland minor winner in 1982 – frustrated as the Dublin 15 side had their noses in front for long periods, before enduring their first loss of the campaign.

But Towers’ overall strength in midfield and around the breaks kept creating scoring chances for the likes of Denis Mackin (0-7, 0-6 from frees) and Eoin Walsh (0-4) who constantly kept the scoring sheet updated.

It was a cracking tie, played out in glorious Sunday morning sunshine, and took little time to get up-and-running, with Mackin opening his account before the lively Paul Hughes responded.

Towers tacked on another couple of points before Corcoran began to hit his straps.

He netted his first major in the 12th minute, cutting in from the right wing despite initially losing the run of the ball, as he bundled past two defenders and rifled in off his left boot.

He got the next three points, too, as his power and running into space from corner-forward was dragging the home defenders all over the place.

Walsh’s second point reduced the margin to three but Corcoran’s second goal – vehemently debated by Paul

Lanigan – stretched the margin once more.

Eoin Moore and Paul Stynes, though, were becoming greater influences on the tie, both pointing from midfield, while Ger Homan and Eoghan Young also registered as they went in at half-time at 2-5 to 0-9 down.

Corcoran added the first two scores of the second half – en route to a personal tally of 2-6 – but the strength of Walsh was proving too hot to handle for the Castleknock defence, though Derek Kinevey put in a string of big interventions.

The crossbar played its part too, denying Castleknock while Walsh’s fourth skipped over off the upright.

Mackin cleared the bar with two successive frees to nudge Towers in front in the 51st minute but quick retorts from Cathal Daly and Kelly swapped the lead going into the last minute of normal time.

Indiscipline cost the visitors, though, as a free was advanced ten metres for back-chat and Mackin tied it up.

And Mockler produced an excellent solo effort to flash in from the right channel and clear the bar, preceding the final whistle by just a couple of seconds.

Club Noticeboard ROUND TOWERS THANKS and best wishes t o o u t g oi n g ch a i r m a n , P ad r a ig McC a r t hy who has stepped down from his position to take up a work position abroad.

Padraig did a fantastic job in his year and a half and we all hope to see him home and back involved soon. Following the vacancy, in accordance with article 31 in our constitution, Tony Delaney was co-opted onto the committee and appointed as chairman by the remaining committee members.

Registration is now open for the women’s mini-marathon on June 6.

You can register online at http://www.womensminimarathon.ie.

A meet and train group are training regularly. All ages and fitness levels welcome.

For mor e i n for m at ion contact Caitriona McGrath on 087 961 9466.

T he sen ior a nd ju n ior A footballers beat St Peregrine’s and Castleknock in the league. The junior B game v St Anne’s was cancelled due to an insufficient number of players having paid their membership and, as such, were uninsured.

The same policy will apply to next weekend’s games.

The minor hurlers were beaten in the league.

Popular local ballad band, Brendan’s Voyage, will play in the club on Satu rday night April 16 and Sunday afternoon, April 17, to raise money for the minor footballers. Admission is €5, which covers both days.

T his week’s lotto numbers were 3, 5, 12 and 17.

There was no winner of this week’s jackpot of €3,000.

Congratulations to Aine H ickey, Brenda n , Ma r y Douglas, Paul Harold and Martina Lyons, who were the five €100 winners.

ST PAT’S PALMERSTOWN LIF F EY Gaels a nd St Mark’s joined our Under8s footballers for a blitz last Saturday.

Under-9s and 10s footballers played Ballinteer St John’s and Liffey Gaels and in hurling, the U-11s lost to Stars Of Erin, while U-12s beat Scoil Uí Chonail.

Under-11s camogie young ladies made it three out of three on Sunday morning when they went away and beat St Maur’s. Lisa Browne, our keeper, made several saves to keep us in the match while Ceola and Ellie found the net at the other end to secure the win. Our sincere thanks to all the parents who made the journey.

Sen ior footba l ler s lost their league match away to Fingallians while juniors scraped home by the mini-

mum one point at home to Park Rangers.

Senior hurlers away this Saturday in league match w ith Naomh Fionnbar ra at 6pm, while juniors at home on Sunday at 11am to O’Dwyers.

Easter camp will commence on Tuesday, April 26 and will run until April 29, from 10am to 2.30pm. To book a spot, ring Paul at 087 6613 104, and note Noreen will be in the clubhouse on Mondays, April 11 and 18 from 6pm to 7.30pm to take bookings for Easter Camp, which cost only €20.

National Football League Div 1 final: Dublin vs Cork takes place in Croke Park on Easter Sunday, Apr il 24. If you require tickets, plea se tex t Noel at 086 8988 920 to book your tickets. Please indicate if you require stand or terrace or family and how many if it’s family. Orders must be in by this Friday.

Our sincere sympathy to junior hurler Mick Brazil and the Brazil family on the sad death of Mick senior.

To view our website simply logon to www.stpatricksgaa.ie L ot t o nu mb er s d r aw n were 17, 23, 29 a nd 30.

T here was no w inner of the €6,000 jackpot; Match any three numbers winners were P Fa r ren, Se a mu s Laffey and A Cox, and each receive €70.

Nex t week’s jackpot is €6,200.

Draw t a kes place each Sunday night at 10pm in the Palmerstown House.

LUCAN SARSFIELDS MEMBERSHIP deadline was March 31. Due to registration and insurance, no pay, no play is now being enforced.

Pay ment still available online via link on website, however phased payments no longer available.

Set dancing every Wednesday in f unction room at 8.30pm. All welcome.

Golf Society: First outing of year to Navan GC: Saturday, April 16, 11am to 1 pm. Cost €40 to include annual membership. Music in bar on Saturday, April 16 by Meet the Folkers. 9.30 till late.

S cho ol of E xc el le nc e : April 18th – 21st. Cost €50.

For boys and girls in all codes. Ages 12 to 16.

Lotto: Numbers draw n were 5, 6, 13 and 23. No winner. Next week’s jackpot €15,000. Mick Mulhall’s team will be in charge next weekend.

Do not forget, you can a lw ay s ent er ou r L ot t o online by clicking on www. lucansarsfields.ie.

Thanks to Carey’s Newsagents who are this week’s sponsor. Please support our sponsors.

ALL OF YOUR CLONDALKIN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

RINGING OUT: Bluebell United look like title contenders with derby win: Page 30

APRIL 14, 2011

INSIDE: Local stars shine in the Great Ireland Run: P29

JONNY STAPLETON clondalkinsport@gazettegroup.com

CLONDALKIN Rugby gained promotion to the Leinster League Division 1 for the first time last Sunday afternoon, but club captain Dan Fitzpatrick claims it was the months and years prior to the success that were the most significant days in the club’s history.

Victory over Portarlington in Athy last Sunday sees Clon move just two promotions shy of professional rugby, but lock Fitzpatrick believes the work and effort put in over the last few years were the catalyst to the historic win.

Fitzpatrick, who took time to pay tribute to departing coach Kenny O’Brien, said the effort put into developing and progressing the club at every level has inspired the first team to be be so successful.

Promotion is a case of mission accomplished for the Air Corp man, and the club’s first-ever captain to

serve consecutive terms will step down now and let the younger generation progress the club further.

“This is a massive win for all involved in Clondalkin Rugby Club and this win is for the committee, all the players from firsts to Under8s and all the members of the big Clondalkin family.

“We are now a force to be reckoned with in Leinster Rugby and will be playing at a level these players deserve,” Fitzpatrick told CRTV after the game.

“I am so proud and ecstatic today.

It was a massive performance against a quality side, but we have been working toward this point for two years.

“We started the season early, got fit and put in three training sessions a week. That is where this promotions was born. This is a young side and they can go on to a develop together and push on further.

“Special mention must go to Kenny O’Brien. He guided a lot

of these players to the All-Ireland Under-18 final years ago and now, with his involvement, they have given the club another historic day.”

Club president John Stapleton took time to thank Fitzpatrick for his efforts as well as paying tribute to the players.

“The two years Dan has been captain we have broken a lot of records. We won three cups last year and are fielding five senior teams. Now we have promotion, and I know all the committee want to thank him and the players. They have been magnificent and are a real inspiration to the underage kids we have here. Kenny O’Brien and Paul Haycock, as coaches, also get our thanks. We are looking forward to travelling to new places next year and further promoting Clondalkin around Leinster. It is a huge honour for me to be president today and to be part of a unique club that is Clondalkin.”

Clondalkin celebrate after their victory over Portarlington saw them reach Division 1

GazetteSPORT

Clondalkin reach Div 1