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YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR PAPER

INSIDE: Siobheal’s giving her all for Clondalkin in Dublin Rose search P6

Hurling: Rushe propels Dublin into Leinster final Page 32

Football: Fresh Towers close in on top of AFL Division 2 Page 31

ALSOINSIDE: GALLERIES .............8 & 10 PETS..............................12 ENTERTAINMENT ......... 16 BUSINESS ................... 23 MOTORS ....................... 24 CLASSIFIEDS ............... 26

June 23, 2011

IN GOOD SPIRITS: Fans rush to meet Angelic author at book signing P2-3

Explore local energy sources – Tuffy Q DAWN LOVE

THERE needs to be further progress on the exploitation and use of renewable energy in South Dublin.

That’s according to Labour councillor Eamon Tuffy, who says he believes it is vital for South Dublin County Council to actively pursue its “commitments in the 2010 to 2016 County Development Plan, supporting the exploitation of renewable energy in

the county”.

Speaking to the Gazette, Cllr Tuffy said there was “positive evidence of potentially commercial sources of geothermal energy in the county, particularly in the Newcastle area”.

“If Government action is necessary to support exploration and testing, I think it should be forthcoming,” he said.

Full story on Page 7

Drying to have fun: Sheltering from the rain at the festival DESPITE the inclement weather, the heavy rains outside couldn’t dampen the good spirits of Daniel, Abby, Grace and Carol Donohue when the Gazette joined them in sheltering for a moment in a tent at the pilot

Clondalkin Festival recently. Along with lots of locals, the Donohues were having a great time at the initiative, which celebrated Clondalkin’s diverse features and community.

Full Gallery on Pages 8, 10

2 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 June 2011

TRANSPORT: CITYWEST EXTENSION

Latest Luas set to open this July Q DAWN LOVE

clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

IT WILL be full steam ahead when the new LUAS Citywest line opens this July, with an extra two million customers expected to make Red Line passenger journeys as a result of the extension.

According to the Railway Procurement Agency (RPA), the new line will “deliver top-quality public transport services to established local communities”, and will also “facilitate developing the Citywest business area”.

The new line consists of a 4.2km light rail link, branching off the Red Line at Belgard, and runs to Saggart in West Dublin.

It includes five new stops, two new substations, and a 300-space park and ride facility at Cheeverstown, and has been developed by means of a partnership between the public and private sectors.

Consortium The consortium that came together to partner the RPA in the delivery of Luas Citywest is Citywest Luas Ltd (CLL); a group of local landowners and business interests, comprising Davy Hickey Properties, Harcourt Development Limited and HSS (Mansfield Group).

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

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

On Saturday, July 2, passengers will enjoy free Red Line travel from 12 noon for the rest of the day, and there will be a range of activities along the new section of the line on the opening day.

IT’S YOUR STORY Shopping centre welcomes fans to

Author’s inspiring angels a big hit at Q LOUISE HALL

news@gazettegroup.com

STAFF at The Bookstation in The Mill Shopping Centre, Clondalkin, were privileged to have best-selling author, Patricia Buckley, sign copies of her debut book on Thursday last week.

Throngs of devoted readers queued up while holding on tightly to their copy of Patricia’s book, My Journey with the Angels.

The down-to-earth mystic gave each eager individual a moment of her time as she engaged in conversation with the delighted fans.

When Patricia’s book was launched on February 3 this year, it went straight into the Irish non-fiction charts at Number 5. It then went to Number 3, where it stayed for three weeks.

My Journey with the Angels stayed in the topfive bestsellers for a further two weeks, and then spent another nine weeks in the top 20.

Sinead Murphy, manager of Bookstation, said the book was selling really well at the shop, and the feedback from customers was excellent.

Patricia’s book is a touching memoir that gives an honest and detailed account of her personal life experiences with the spirit world and angels.

Although she had a tough upbringing, marred with poverty and abuse, she relished in the support she received from the spirit world.

Other international best-selling author, Patricia Scanlon, describes the book as: “Totally engrossing and will give hope to many.”

Of the many who arrived at the Bookstation outlet, each had their

own reasons for wanting to meet the warm and friendly Patricia.

Louise Quinn travelled across the city from Portmarnock, and described the book as uplifting and inspiring.

At the young age of 35, Louise has already battled breast cancer, and she also lost her father some years back.

Reading Patricia’s book gave her immense inner healing and comfort in the fact that there are angels around all of us, even through our most difficult times in life.

Also at the book signing was Vincent Hegarty, who is originally from New York, but whose parents now live in Clondalkin.

Journey Vincent has been on his own personal journey over the past few months and, when someone recommended My Journey with the Angels, he went out and bought the book and read it in a matter of hours.

He said he always knew there was a guardian angel in his life, and this book confirmed it.

Christina Fandrakis, who works in the florist, Mills and Blooms, in the centre, also nipped up during her lunch break when she realised Patricia was signing books.

Queuing When Aisling Sheridan’s husband couldn’t get away from work, she obliged by queuing up for him, and promised she would read it once he was done.

Also supporting Patricia on the day was husband and co-owner of Angels of Ireland shop, located on the Main Street in Finglas, Stephen, and son,

Christina Fandrakis, from Mills and Bloom florists, and author, Patricia Buckley

Stephen Jnr, who took time during his lunch break from work to come and see his mother.

Speaking to Patricia after two solid hours of meeting with people and signing their books, she told me that the angels had paved the way for the next chapter in her life.

Just last week, Patricia got the fantastic news that Tracy Brennan, of Trace Literary Agency, Indiana, was going to act as an agent to represent her book and bring it to the American market.

It marks a whole new journey for the gentle and loving woman, who has helped so many people already with the reassuring words in her book, and it’s sure to touch many more lives in a positive way.

Autographing a copy

Vincent Hegarty with Patricia with Louise Hall

Patricia

23 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 3

greet My Journey with the Angels’ Patricia Buckley

story of talking to Mill book signing Meeting a young fan

Aisling Sheridan and Patricia with Louise Quinn

Patricia

Stephen Buckley Senior and Junior

COUNCIL: CONCERNS

Call for action on dumping FOLLOWING a recent increase in illegal dumping in St Cuthbert’s Park, Sinn Fein Dublin MidWest representative Eoin O’Broin has called for the council “to provide additional resources to clean the park and to catch those responsible”.

He said that there had been an increase in the activity in recent months.

“I have been contacted by residents living in the estates off St Cuthbert’s Road regarding a recent increase in illegal dumping in St Cuthbert’s Park.

‘The dumping is not only a blight on the park itself, but is also a serious danger to children playing in the area.

“I have contacted South Dublin County Council, asking it to provide additional resources to clean the park and to catch those responsible,” said O’Broin.

4 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 June 2011

COUNCIL Both sides unhappy at impounding cost of horses

Council is hit with €10,481 charges in related horse costs Q LAURA WEBB clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

A SIT-IN protest by a group in support of a campaign to return horses to individuals at South Dublin County Council (SDCC) offices has cost the council more than €10,000.

On May 10, a group supporting a campaign to get the local authority to return horses to individuals began a sitin protest at the council offices, and arrests were made during the threeweek sit-in.

The sit-in began after Alan Murphy and Christopher Chrissley’s horses were impounded by the council from a field at Lough View Road, Bawnogue.

SDCC gave the horse owners five days to pay the €1,300 fee to release the horses from its pound, and said the horses had been on an

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‘The total cost for the horses’ round-up, the diversion of resources, and court proceedings came to €10,481’ ------------------------

open public space when they were “roundedup”.

The men were unable to pay the fee, and, as a result, the horses were impounded.

During a recent county council meeting, management at SDCC informed councillors of the cost of the sit-in protest to the council.

The cost relating to the round-up of the horses was €2,235; diversions of staff resources to deal

with the protest cost €4,832, and courts proceedings cost €3,414 – a total of €10,481.

However, the cost of garda time is “not available”, but it is understood to be in excess of 100 man-hours.

The council said: “The cost of court time spent on the matter is not available, and the potential impact on other services, where savings need to be identified should funding not be available, will become clear once the funding position has been clarified with the Department of Agriculture.”

In the repor t, a spokesperson for SDCC said the incident was a “regrettable outcome” of the local authority pursuing the interest of the community through the implementation of the council’s Control of Horses bye laws.

South Dublin County Council offices, which saw a sit-in protest across a number of weeks

CLAIM: COUNCILLOR SLAMS FUNDING SPEND

Outrageous cost of outlay – Kenny Q PAUL HOSFORD

clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

PEOPLE Before Profit councillor Gino Kenny has hit out at South Dublin County Council (SDCC) for its handling of recent sit-in protests at the council’s offices.

In response to a question by Cllr Kenny to SDCC in relation to the impounding of two horses in the Bawnogue area of Clondalkin five weeks ago, and the subsequent protests that followed, SDCC said that it had spent €10,500 on the impounding of the horses, legal fees in relation to the court injunction, and staff redeployment to deal with the protest.

At last Monday’s council meeting Cllr Kenny – who has supported the protesters on the issue – slammed the council’s outlay.

“This is truly outrageous. The council have spent this amount of money in order to defend their position of not giving in to public pressure.

“T he council was offered that the fine [for

the animals’ impounding] would be paid in full only two days over the deadline, yet they chose to spend this outrageous amount of money in not letting the horse owners get their horses back.

“It’s truly outstanding that they can get away with this as a public body and not be accountable to us, the citizens of this county.

“It brings a phrase to mind – that it had to destroy the horses in order to save them,” said Cllr Kenny.

He also had a motion debated at last Monday’s meeting regarding the Control of Horses Bye Laws. Cllr Kenny asked that the present Bye Laws be reviewed, especially in relation to the five-day period of payment for impounding.

He said: “This Bye Law is income-discriminatory, and there should be some flexibility in regards to the paying of the fine.

“If a person or persons is willing to pay over a longer period – say, 21 days – then the person should be accommodat-

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‘This Bye Law is incomediscriminatory, and there should be some flexibility in regards to the paying of the [impound] fine’ --------------------------

Cllr Gino Kenny, PBP

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

ed, rather than see their animal be destroyed by financial red tape.”

In response, SDCC said that the monies for all the related costs surrounding the horses’ impounding would have to come from areas that it is already committed to.

“The event caused significant disruption to the legitimate business of customers seeking to avail of services, and to the staff trying to serve their needs under an intimidating and hindering presence in the foyer.

“While it is rare that such a number of arrests

arise, and rarer still that the council is forced to resort to the courts for such protests, it is a simple fact of the business of local government that such events do arise from time to time, and staff of the council are experienced at dealing with them.

“Regrettably, these events always have a cost in financial terms, and other ways.

“Given the number and varied involvement of staff, the amount of management and staff time spent on the matter, the cost to the council of this time being taken up, and the loss to other services arising from staff being diverted from other duties, there is a significant but largely unquantifiable cost.

“The total cost for the council is €10,481 [for all the related charges].

“As these funds were not provided for during the Budget 2011 process, the outlay must now be borne through the identification of savings in other service areas,” said the council.

23 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 5

SERVICES CityPOST announce a major expansion drive COUNCIL: THERE ARE TOO

MANY PATHS TO CLEAR IN WINTER, REPORT REVEALS

‘We can’t grit all paths in county’ Q PAUL HOSFORD

clondalkin@gazettegroup.com CityPOST staff helped to announce news of the company’s next major expansion, set to create 180 new jobs within the next 18 months

New jobs delivered by post company CITYPOST, Ireland’s largest independent postal services company, has delivered good news to Clondalkin with the announcement of the creation of 180 new jobs over the next 18 months.

The jobs will be based primarily at CityPOST’s headquarters in Ballymount, but also at its 32 regional handling centres nationwide.

The new jobs will primarily comprise mail sorting, delivery and collection, operations and administration roles.

Employing only 20 people ten years ago, CityPOST has gone from strength to strength over

the past number of years, and the group currently employs 188 staff in Ireland.

The announcement by the company to effectively double its workforce in 18 months comes following recent expansion and a number of high-profile contract wins in the last six months.

Ian Glass, managing director, said: “We are delighted to be in a position to once again expand our company and create another 180 jobs.

“We have had a hugely successful year, and are braced for even more growth. This sustainable growth has been carefully

and meticulously planned for quite some time now.

“CityPOST is in expansion mode, and is providing a real alternative to An Post,” he said.

Other than An Post, CityPOST is the only “last mile” operator licensed in Ireland to deliver post, and currently delivers to 950,000 homes every week.

Clients include Woodies, Stena Line, Golden Pages, Superquinn and Fingal County Council.

Although keeping a low profile for the last two decades, the company delivers to 85% of businesses, and 65% of residential homes, and

has been contracted since 2002 to deliver the Irish national telephone directory nationwide.

CityPOST also has a large presence in Portugal, and has a 28,000 sq ft facility in Queluz, on the outskirts of Lisbon, with a staff of 120 people.

The group received 60% of the national Portuguese telephone directory contract in 2005 and, last December, CityPOST beat the Portuguese post office in a competitive tender, and was awarded a three-year contract worth close to €10 million for the addressed delivery of the Portuguese phone book for the full region of

Portugal and its islands, Madeira and the Azores.

In addition, CityPOST expects to launch a consumer offering later this year, as well as an electric postal bike service, to be rolled out in the coming weeks.

This new collection and delivery service, to be established in business centres, is expected to provide an average 20% saving for a company’s annual postal bill.

Established in 1987, CityPOST is a familyowned firm, operating its own national network structure, with an emphasis on high-quality, secure distribution.

Figures released on anti-social fines Q PAUL HOSFORD

clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

THERE have been 74 fines handed out to anti-social behaviour offenders in the first half of this year.

The figures released by South Dublin County Council came on foot of a question raised by Fine Gael councillor, Emer Higgins, who asked for a “report on antisocial behaviour in our parks and public spaces, the number of complaints received, fines issued and interactions with the gardai arising from complaints”.

In response, council management said that the majority of anti-social behaviour happens at a time when staff aren’t committed to the parks.

“The consequences of antisocial behaviour impact particularly heavily on our parks and open spaces and, while it is more evident in those parks and open spaces that do not have a daily staff presence, the majority of anti-social behaviour takes place during the hours of darkness, after the parks have closed and our staff have finished work for the day,” said the council.

Cllr Higgins said the issue was an increasing concern, but paid tribute to the council’s Parks Department.

“Anti-social behaviour in our parks, our estates and on our greens is a huge issue. It is very distressing for residents who are affected by intimidating and antisocial behaviour.

“The council’s Parks Department have been doing tremendous work with the gardai and local residents, and there has been a huge investment throughout the county in measures to combat anti-social behaviour,”

she said.

“The problems, however, in many instances are continuing. Residents in Palmerstown recently came together to form an action group to help stamp out ongoing anti-social behaviour in Glenaulin Park.

“This group has had huge support from the gardai, the council and the collective public representatives.

“I believe we need to continue to look at innovate ways like this to help tackle these problems, which are causing such distress to residents,” said Cllr Higgins.

IT WILL never be feasible to provide a gritting service on paths in South Dublin.

That is the conclusion arrived at in a report provided to the recent council meeting.

Labour councillor Breda Bonner had asked the council: “What lessons have been learned from the severe weather last winter?” and looked for a “report on what plans have been made to deal with severe weather this coming winter, with particular regard to keeping roads safe, salt and grit supplies, and arrangements for their use”.

Cllr Bonner also sought information on “addressing the problem of frozen water mains, the issue of footpaths and whose responsibility it is to keep them clear of snow and ice, and the drawing up of an integrated emergency response to ensure that residents, particularly the elderly, are looked after in times of severe weather”.

In a lengthy response, council management said that there were numerous recommendations, carried in an internal review, but that gritting paths would not be one of them.

Recommendations included improved information flows from the National Roads Authority regarding salt deliveries, particularly with regard to advance notice, timing of deliveries and delivery arrangements.

A review of the response on footpaths, estate roads and industrial estates was highlighted.

Generic advice sheets which can be adopted for local use, were recommended, which would be suitable for all media outlets, especially for use on Facebook and Twitter.

A number of salt/grit silos should be installed throughout the county on a trial basis, in order to make salt/grit available at critical locations during events such as the recent severe winter weather.

The support and contribution made by the Defence Forces, and by the Civil Defence and, more importantly,

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‘Extent of linear metres of paths are not feasible for this council to grit during severe weather’ --------------------------

by existing businesses, shopkeepers and the local voluntary community during such conditions is acknowledged by the council, and is being reviewed.

However, the council said: “Given the extent of linear metres of footpaths in the county, it will never be feasible to provide a gritting service in this regard.”

There was some good news, though, as the council also said: “Five mini-gritters, equipped with snow ploughs, were purchased for use by the Parks Dept earlier this year, and it is foreseen that these will be deployed in priority pedestrian areas such as those adjacent to hospitals and schools.”

6 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 June 2011

PEOPLE Aiming for place in this year’s Rose of Tralee

Siobheal getting prepared for the final hurdle Q LAURA WEBB

Siobheal competes in the final to decide Dublin’s Rose on June 25

A 22-year-old woman is flying the flag high for Clondalkin as she competes in the final of Dublin’s search for its representative in the Rose of Tralee, a show she has been a “closet” fan of for years.

A week after sending in her application form, Siobheal Nic Eochaidh, was called for a meeting to find out more about Dublin’s search for a Rose, who will represent the county in Tralee, Co. Kerry later this year.

Two months and a semi -final later, she has made it to the final heat, which takes place in Citywest on June 25.

Excited about the finals, the media and Irish scholar said it is “surreal” to think she has made it this far.

“I applied about two months ago.

“My sister said it to me last year and printed out the application and everything, but college work got in the way, but it stuck in my mind since then and I decided to apply this year.

“They organise a lot of social nights and fundraising nights to go to, it’s not part of the judging process, it is really just so you can get to know people.

“The semi-final was on Sunday night [June 12] and I got through.

“I am thrilled and super excited about it [the final].

“When they talk about the scale of the production, I just keep wondering how did I end up here?” she laughs.

For the semi-final, which Siobheal says is likely to be the same format for the final, “the contestant had a one-onone interview with three judges, then a group meeting in the afternoon, where contestants are sitting in a semi circle and judges are sitting outside the circle.”

During this, the girls are given a topic, which they must discuss within a group.

Later that night, Siobheal says it’s like the Rose of Tralee.

“It is the show, you have a little chat, you do a talent, but you don’t have to do a talent, it’s not part of the judging.

Tricky

“I ended up doing hip hop dancing, which is tricky to do in a ball gown, so I have to run off stage and get changed.”

Coming from a family of “closet Rose of Tralee fans”, she says that has changed now.

“We watch it every year, and I think this year they won’t mind saying they watch it.

“It is so glamorous, but what I like about the Rose of Tralee is that it is not a beauty pageant.

“It is just about having fun, really good banter and really good atmosphere, that is what I really like about it,.

“Everyone is so genuine.

“There is nothing else like it, I love the way it celebrates Irish women and it celebrates our heritage.

“I love the Irish language.

“I love seeing the glamour too, that is what draws me to it,” she said.

Siobheal will compete against 25 other potential roses to be crowned the Dublin Rose, who will then represent the county in the Rose of Tralee contest later this year.

Siobheal Nic Eochaidh, 22, from Clondalkin, is hopeful of winning the final

www.gazette group.com All of your latest local news, sport, features and pictures are now just a click away

23 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 7

COUNCIL Make better use of resources – Cllr Tuffy

Call for progress on using local energy Q DAWN LOVE

lucan@gazettegroup.com

THERE needs to be further progress on the exploitation and use of renewable energy in South Dublin.

T h a t ’s a c c o r d i n g to Labour councillor Eamon Tuffy, who says he believes it is vital for South Dublin County Council (SDCC) to actively pursue its “commitments in the 2010 to 2016 County Development Plan, supporting the exploitation of renewable energy in the county”.

Cllr Tuffy was speaking at a council meeting last week, where he tabled a motion and two questions to the county manager seeking progress and information on SDCC’s

energy-related actions.

His motion was directed at the Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources, Pat Rabbitte, in which he asked the manager to seek information on Government legislation to promote, facilitate and derive benefit from the exploitation of renewable energy resources, including geothermal energy.

Energy initiatives Responding to Cllr Tuffy, SDCC said that, since the County Development Plan was adopted, the council had been progressing a number of renewable energy initiatives, in the context of the preparation of a countywide Sustainable Energy Action Plan (SEAP).

“The SEAP is being

undertaken by the Planning Department, under the protocol of the Covenant of Mayors, and includes calculation of the county’s energy consumption, and identification of ways to both reduce consumption and seriously increase input from renewable energy sources, including geothermal.

“In parallel with this, the council has also successfuly bid as part of a multi-authority EU Intelligent Energy Europe programme, for funding for a local energy action leadership project, to develop local authorities as community leaders in carbon footprint reduction,” said the council.

“Early initiatives related to the above include development of energy

and water-saving programmes with local businesses through partnership with the Chamber of Commerce.

“The council is currently employing energy interns to audit energy patterns, identify solutions and produce an evidence-base for improvement works,” said the council.

Speaking to the Gazette, Cllr Tuffy said there was “positive evidence of potentially commercial sources of geothermal energy in the county, particularly in the Newcastle area, and I note that, in response to my question, although planning permission has been granted for a drilling project, no start has been made.

“If Government action

Labour councillor Eamon Tuffy

is necessary to support exploration and testing, I think it should be forthcoming,” he said.

“The reply to my question about the council’s own initiatives in the more effective use of energy by industry, business, other large energy users and households

in the county is very encouraging.

“As chairman of the Economic Development Strategic Policy committee, and the County Development Board, I am very supportive of the initiatives taken by the manager and his senior staff,” said Cllr Tuffy.

EVENT

Camera club holds exhibition THE 2nd Annual Exhibition of Palmerstown Camera Club takes place this weekend in The Parish Hall, Palmerstown Village on Saturday and Sunday, June 25 and 26, from 10am to 5pm daily.

This is the second annual exhibition since the formation of the club in September, 2009.

The club has over 70 members, at various different levels of photography.

The club meet every Wednesday night, from September to June, in Palmerstown Parish centre from 8pm-10pm. They also go out on the third Sunday of every month on club outings.

If you are interested in joining the club, drop in to see them any Wednesday night or contact Trudy on 086-4061670 or Dee on 085-1479802.

For more information, see http://www.palmerstowncameraclub.ie

8 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 June 2011

COMMUNITY Locals celebrate pilot Clondalkin Festival

A memorable look in the middle of Clondalkin

Celebrate our area’s diversity HE Gazette joined locals in dashing between the raindrops on a wet afternoon during the recent pilot Clondalkin Festival, which saw heavy rains failing to stop the happy smiles from locals as they enjoyed a wide range of family- and community-orientated festival events.

With everything from open days at Aras Chronain to jewellery-making classes and set dancing workshops, face-painting and live music, the festival saw Clondalkin residents celebrating the rich diversity of activities to be found in and around the village, with something for everyone in the SDCC-sponsored event, which local Minister, Frances Fitzgerald, praised as a great way of boosting community spirits and creating cohesion among residents”.

T

Gallery continues on Page 10

Despite the inclement weather, there were plenty of smiles to be found as locals of all ages dashed around to enjoy a wide variety of events, braving the skies and sudden showers to take in some terrific community entertainment. Pictures: Peter Doyle

The rain wasn’t going to dampen their spirits

Having faces painted is fun – especially if you know your friends and family are going to see you in The Gazette

23 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9

10 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 June 2011

TAKE TWO Another look at Clondalkin’s festival fun

Colourful clothes and painted faces banished the rain for these young revellers. Pictures: Peter Doyle

Having family fun together, thanks to the tent keeping the ‘summer’ at bay

The washout can’t dampen good feelings Having a monstrously good time together

Face-painting was a very popular activity

Despite the poor weather, everyone really enjoyed coming together as a community

23 June 2011 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 23 June 2011

PETS Saving your sanity and furniture

Keeping those Kitty claws up to scratch MIRIAM KERINS Education Officer, Dublin SPCA

E V E RYO N E k n ow s that cats like to claw and scratch – that’s why I’m amazed when, very often, some people enquiring about adopting a kitten insist they don’t want one that will “scratch” their top- grain leather furniture. Oh, grow up!

It’s no secret that, as part of their daily routine, our feline friends instinctively pull the claws on their front paws through any surface that offers resistance – this unfortunately includes prized possessions like leather furniture! It’s a cat thing

– get over it!

A cat’s claws are the Swiss army knife of her tool box and an integral part of who she is – an exceptional hunter, climber and expert in personal defence. Kitty’s one paw swat is usually enough to send other cats running for cover, let alone the new family dog who swaggers onto her territory thinking he’s the dominant alpha male on the block. Big mistake!

A cat will also use her claws to communicate and leave messages for other cats by scratching on surfaces. You see, Kitty’s claws will engrave a visual territorial mark,

Cats instinctively pull the claws on their front paws through any surface that offers resistance

while the scent glands in her paw pads will brush on an olfactory mark signaling to other cats that she’s in da house!

Ok, if your cat is an outdoorsy type, then she’ll probably use tree trunks as part of her daily clawing ritual. But when she’s indoors, then she’ll go for everything from the curtains to the bed linen and beyond.

So, if Kitty is an indoor cat (and, here’s a bit of trivia - thanks to the invention of cat litter back in the 1940s, more and more felines are staying in, allowing them to live longer, healthier lives) she may be determined to feng shui your home in her own particular style of, er, “claw chic” well, then, what’s a pet parent to do?

• Encourage Kitty to use posts by scenting them with her favourite cat food, or hang or place toys in areas where she’ll climb. Also, gently rub your own hands on the scratching post’s surface and then gently rub Kitty’s paws onto the surface and praise her for using it.

• If your budget allows it, then get a multi-level scratching post that incorporates climbing and resting platforms with tree trunk-style stilts built in.

• Reward your cat every time she uses her scratching post. Remember, security is essential here, so make sure the scratching post is stable because if it topples or shakes, Kitty won’t want to use it.

• Cover objects that are out of bounds – better still, move them.

• If you manage to catch Kitty in the act of scratching a forbidden object, distract her by clapping your hands or by squirting her, very gently, with clean water from a child’s small toy water pistol. Never, ever hit her.

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

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Gazette Contacts Block 3A Mill Bank Business Park Lucan Tel: 01 6010240 Fax: 01 6010251 Managing Director: Liam Holland email: lholland@gazettegroup.com General Manager: Michael McGovern email: mmcgovern@gazettegroup.com Editor: Cormac Curtis email: ccurtis@gazettegroup.com News Editor: Dawn Love email: dlove@gazettegroup.com Production Editor: Jessica Maile email: jmaile@gazettegroup.com Sports Editor: Rob Heigh email: sport@gazettegroup.com Financial Controller: Carly Lynch email: clynch@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.

SNAPSHOT The stories of the day

Calling all snappers!

AN Taisce are inviting entries from Dublin to their annual Clean Coast Photography Competition, which was launched last week as part of Coca-Cola Clean Coast Week.

Dublin has some of the most beautiful and spectacular coastlines in Ireland and, last year, a photograph of Dollymount, taken by Jonathan Mallin, took third prize in the Under-18s’ category of the competition, while Jamie Saunder’s photograph of Dublin Bay took third prize in the Over-18s’ category.

The Clean Coasts Photography Competition is a key part of An Taisce’s Clean Coasts’ programme, which encourages communities to manage and conserve some of the 3,000 miles of Irish coastline.

There were over 600 entries last year with a very high standard of photography as

Annabel Fitzgerald, Coastal Programmes Manager with An Taisce commented: “The photography competition is in its second year.

“Last year’s competition was so successful, an exhibition of some of the entries has been touring Ireland, a real snapshot of the beauty

of Ireland’s coastline.”

The theme of this year’s competition is, I Love My Coast, and entries are invited under four categories: 1) Coastal Landscape; 2) Coastal Heritage; 3) Nature & Wildlife; 4) People & the Coast.

The total prize fund is

€3,000 and the chance to be part of the Clean Coasts Photography Exhibition.

If you would like to enter the Clean Coast Photography Competition, log on to the website www.cleancoastphoto.org The Clean Coasts’ programme is owned and oper-

ated by the Environmental Education Unit of An Taisce and is supported by the Department of the Environment, Community and Local Government, Coca-Cola.

To learn more about An Taisce’s Clean Coasts’ Programme visit www.cleancoastsireland.org

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GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT

A film ready to take flight Based on a ‘kind of’ true story, Ian Power’s directorial debut, The Runway, is a triumph for the whole family Q JONATHAN KEANE

Jamie Kierans and Demian Bichir star in Ian Power’s feel-good debut feature length film, The Runway, showing in cinemas now

THE Runaway is the partially true story of a small quiet town in rural Cork called Drumasheen, with little or nothing going on, spelling utter boredom for the children living there and particularly our protagonist Paco (Jamie Kierans). However, that all swiftly changes with, literally, a bang.

Ernesto, a Columbian pilot played by Demian Bichir, crashes his plane outside the town, and, lucky to survive, meets Paco who rallies the residents together to build

a runway for Ernesto to fly home.

Set in 1983, The Runway has all the hallmarks of feel-good film; the town is stuck in the doldrums of the recession of the 80s and this unlikely arrival is what brings the populace together, even if some have ulterior motives.

Some have looked beyond the goodwill of the other residents to get Ernesto home and see the situation as a PR and money-making gold -mine.

The different motives of these minor characters keep things a lit-

FILM OF THE WEEK: The Runway ++++ (PG) 101 mins Director: Ian Power Starring: Demian Bichir, Kerry Condon, Jamie Kierans, James Cosmo

OUR VERDICT: THE Runway is a simple family film filled with laughs and warming moments. There’s still plenty here for any age to enjoy from the development of the different relationships to various characters’ quirks. Ian Power has taken this true story, and well and truly, made it his with his own well-scripted subplots. The script and acting are solid and affecting, so there’s little to really fault with in The Runway.

tle more interesting as there is always something under the surface.

Director Ian Power keeps the plot simple overall and easy to follow from the opening to closing credits, which is the film’s greatest strength.

The relationship b e t we e n P a c o a n d Ernesto is the centrepiece of the film, striking a bond that is both heartwarming as well as funny when it needs to be.

Paco has been raised by his single mother (Kerry Condon) and the arrival of Ernesto marks something of a father figure for him, especially with Paco’s only knowledge of his father being that he “lives in Spain”.

Under this belief of his father’s whereabouts, Paco learns Spanish and when Ernesto lands in Dr umasheen, he attempts to establish a rapport with the Columbian stranger and soon finds himself acting as interpreter for the rest of the town.

This is Power’s debut feature film and it proves to be a more than impressive debut, with him taking this true story and mixing in and integrating his own sub-plots and quirks to the film.

It is easy to see why The Runway has been gathering acclaim, seemingly across the board ,including scooping up the gong for Best Irish

Feature Film at the Galway Film Fleadh.

The film has been likened to E.T. with an outsider entering a small community and bonding with a child, and the two building an affecting relationship. Spielberg’s influence is quite evident in Power’s work here.

Debut

Power is not the only debut here, as Jamie Kierans too is making his debut as the touching and cheery Paco.

It seems that Kierans adapted quickly and easily to Power’s plot, with the youngster depicting Paco with little or no flaws, and with ease, creating a character that the audience can relate to.

The star performance comes from Demian Bichir though, in his portrayal of the almost dark and reluctant hero of the film.

The Mexican actor is heavily acclaimed too, particularly in his role in Che (2008) and his presence in the cast gives the film just a little bit more credibility, for those perhaps reluctant to watch the film.

The Runway, as cliched as it sounds, is one for all ages, with its bubbly comedic moments as well as poignant scenes, and is certainly a victory for Irish film that shouldn’t be overlooked.

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Be the best best man on the day WHEN it comes to public speaking, most people would admit that they hate the thought of standing up and addressing any kind of a gathering.

The best man’s speech is almost as important as the wedding ceremony itself – everyone knows it’s going to happen, the preparations are desperately nerve-wracking, and there’s no escaping it once you’ve signed up to the event.

You’ll be honoured, of course, to be best man.

But, your words will not be forgotten. They will

be etched in everyone’s minds for years to come.

We can all remember the kinds of car-crash speeches we’ve heard in the past.

Advice

The best advice is to be yourself and remember what the speech is all about. You probably don’t do stand up-comedy for a living, so don’t try. Be humorous, but remember that the most important people in the room are sitting next to you; it’s their day and they should be the main focus.

l M UM S -TO - B E l

Serious style to dress your bump AT THIS time of the year there are so many wedding’s to attend, women purchasing fabulous dresses and men buying suits or heading down to Blacktie.

But what about mumsto-be? It is just as important they feel and look fabulous wearing a beautiful dress for their special occasion day.

That’s where Stylemama comes in, helping mums-to-be find that perfect maternity dress without the expense of buying one that may only be worn once or twice throughout their pregnancy. And, for a fraction of the price, they offer a fantastic collection of dresses by well-known designers, many of which are worn by some of our favourite celebrities.

Clients can browse through the collection of dresses at the show-

room, taking as much time as they desire. With the option of their mobile service – shopping for maternity dresses has never been easier.

The selection of Nicole Michelle dresses are a very popular choice this season, truly beautiful dresses made with luxurious lace, a fabric which gives a perfect silhouette shape and, of course, lots of comfort, too, and allowing you to show off your beautiful bump, not conceal it.

Dresses from this range of have been worn by celebrity Emma Bunton this year, and many more of our dresses from other designers have been worn by Myleene Klass, Danielle Lloyd and Tess Daly.

Mums-to-be will be really spoilt for choice when visiting Stylemama.

All-inclusive package from Green Isle Hotel THE Green Isle Hotel on the Naas road has just teamed up with wedding specialist Laura Leigh, and is excited to announce their new exclusive, and all-inclusive, wedding package.

The Green Isle Hotel offers an innovative and elegant wedding programme with a trained, professional team to see that every wedding is truly special. Exquisite cuisine and wines, the loveliest linens, floral arrangements and a range of suites all help to take the stress out of your big day. The Green Isle Hotel offers a convenient location for a wedding reception and will make for a very memorable occasion.

From the moment a couple decides to hold their special day at the Green Isle Conference & Leisure Hotel, the hotel’s team will be happy to assist; ensuring attention to detail is of the utmost importance. The hotel will work to create a wonderful and unforgettable occasion for the happy couple, their families and guests.

The hotel’s new all-inclusive wedding package features tea/ coffee, biscuits and mulled wine or fruit punch on arrival, followed by a sumptuous fivecourse evening meal for all guests.

Each guest enjoys one glass of wine with their meal, which is

enjoyed at tables featuring chair covers and floral centrepieces.

The happy couple enjoy one month leisure membership and a complimentary bridal suite.

This offer applies to minimum numbers of 100 people, Monday – Friday.

For Saturday weddings, a charge of €10 extra per person applies, and the offer includes and evening reception buffet, two guests bedrooms provided by the Green Isle Hotel.

Also provided by “I Do” Weddings – by Laura Leigh – is a choice of wedding gown from top designers, two bridesmaid dresses, tiara, veil and bridal

shoes.

Other wedding essentials, including a total of 60 day invitations, a two- or three-tier cake, photographer and album, videographer, one car hire and unity candle and stand are also included.

See www.idoweddings.ie for examples.

This offer is available from €9,500 and is subject to availability. Upgrades are possible at a surcharge.

For further information, please contact the hotel’s wedding coordinator, Suzanne McCabe, on (01) 4123708 or email sales@ greenislehotel.com.

23 June 2011 GAZETTE 19

l LO O K I N G A M I L L I O N D O L L A R S l

Planning your bridal beauty regime ARE YOU five or six months away from your wedding? While you’re addressing invitations and picking out bridesmaids’ dresses, it will definitely pay off to take some time to work on your beauty regimen.

Making an investment now will pay off big on your wedding day.

Skin Care Now is the time to start working on your skin. On your wedding day, you’ll be having your picture taken close-up and many people getting close to your skin as they hug and kiss you. Even a relatively nice complexion can get extra benefit from six months of stress-relief, proper nutrition, and added water-drinking.

First, start a good cleansing programme.

You should be using a multi-step system, including a good cleanser

(Sothys Morning Cleanser for all skin types) in the morning, eye makeup remover and cleanser and toner at night, daily moisturiser (Dermalogica Skin Smoothing Cream) and an exfoliant and mask once a week.

(Sothys Desquacrem and Oxyliance Mask).

If you can afford it, this is a great time to consult a professional beauty therapist. Tell them your wedding date, and your skin-care goals. They may recommend treatments such as microdermabrasion or regular facials that will help you have pictureperfect skin.

Examine how much water you drink daily.

Drinking up to eight glasses daily may help clear up blemishes and make your skin more luminous. Try filling a bottle and keeping it on your desk at work. Have another water bottle in

the TV room (or wherever you tend to relax at night). While drinking this much water may be a challenge at first, keep at it, and it will get easier and easier.

While you’re increasing your water consumption, it’s a great time to be decreasing your caffeine consumption. Not only will less caffeine help your skin, it will also help you to be less stressed out.

You know if you’re better off going cold turkey or decreasing gradually.

Body Treatments Regular body massages will help to relax you during this stressful time!

Most beauty salons offer massage therapy treatments.

As well as massages, salons and spas offer full body and beauty treatments for brides-to-be and their parties, so look around and see where

Take the time between now and your wedding to focus on your beauty health

offers the best value – you might think about taking a day off with your hens and pampering yourself before the big day.

All kinds of treatments are available, from Body

treatments, including Swedish, stone therapy, lymphatic and deeptissue massage, Holistic therapies, including Hopi ear candling, reflexology, aromatherapy and Indian

head massage – think about which one will be right for you, and enjoy the downtime.

Make-up At least a month before

the wedding, visit a beauty salon and ask about a trial make up.

It is best to get two each for hair and make-up to make sure you know what you are getting. And make sure your trials are with the people who will be doing your hair/makeup on the day You need to know exactly what your make up will look like on your big day, and taking the time to think it through with your beautician beforehand is a very good idea.

Consider using this make-up session when you get ready for your hen night – you’ll also get to see how well your makeup performs on a night out, good practise for the big day itself.

Remember it’s your wedding day, one of the best days of your life, so, once all the preparations are done, sit back and enjoy, and be beautiful.

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l HONEYMOON OFFERS l

A heavenly Honeymoon FROM lazing on a deserted Caribbean beach to gazing on wild African game in their natural environment, it is important that you get the right advice when choosing your honeymoon.

The run-up to a wedding can be one of the most exciting times in a person’s life, but it can also be quite stressful!

Once the happy couple have said their “I do’s” and partied the night away with friends and family, they are often exhausted from all of the anticipation and planning and are ready for the per-

fect honeymoon.

Tour operators and travel agents have cottoned on to the fact that honeymooners no longer want just a week on the beach somewhere, but are often after a once-ina-lifetime experience.

“We are talking to a lot of honeymooners who say that they want a week on the beach to relax followed by an experience, such as a wildlife safari or a blowout in Las Vegas,” says Stephen McKenna, Founder of GoHop.ie.

“Twin centre holidays are increasingly popular, with a few days in Dubai

followed by a South African safari and or Garden Route trip – a firm favourite” he says.

Asia is also another haven for honeymooners, thanks to the affordability of the resorts in Thailand and Bali. It is possible to get excellent value for money without having to scrimp on luxury. Lisa Byrne, Travelmood, comments: “More and more honeymooners are opting for all-inclusive package deals to Thailand or the Caribbean. There are lots of all-inclusive deals around that offer the very best value for money. After

After the big day, the couple want to relax without having to worry about money

the big expense of a wedding, the couple want to kick back and relax without having to worry about the cost of their honeymoon.”

In the run-up to the wedding, practical planning for the honeymoon can get overlooked. It is important to research whether you need specific visas or vaccinations for the countries you will be visiting. Remember, that for vaccines to have the maximum effect, it is important to get them

well in advance of the trip. The Tropical Medical Bureau have over 23 clinics nationwide.

Travel insurance is also another important factor when travelling abroad.

Multitrip.ie offers cheap travel insurance that provides comprehensive holiday insurance cover, and ,with prices starting from as little as €19.99, should definitely be a priority when planning.

Top Honeymoon Offers

1) Travelmood – Pat-

taya, Thailand. Ten nights at the 3-star Green Park Resort in a standard room from €875.50pp inc tax (€570pp without tax).

P a c k a g e i n cl u d e s accommodation on a room-only basis, return flights with SAS ex-Dublin.

Must book before July 14. Travel: October 2 2011. Quote Ref: 156376 Visit www.travelmood.ie or call 01 433 1040.

2) GoHop.ie – Tanzania & Zanzibar. Tanzania – Safari + Zanzibar Honey-

moon package price from €2,990pp sharing, including flights from Ireland.

Package price includes all transfers, accommodation, meals and game drives. Private transport while on safari with a naturalist driver/guide. Internal flights from Arusha to Zanzibar and from Zanzibar to Dar Es Salaam.

Visit www.gohop.ie or call 01 2412389.

3) Joe Walsh Tours Antigua. Seven nights in Antigua on an all-inclusive basis at the Grand Pineapple Beach Antigua from €1,320 plus tax.

Includes: Return flights from Dublin, seven nights accommodation at the 3-star Grand Pineapple in a standard room on an all-inclusive basis (all meals, drinks and entertainment included) and transfers. Visit www.joewalshtours.ie or call 01 241 0888.

4) Concorde Travel Croatia. Stay seven nights at the 5-star Hotel Croatia in Cavtat on a B&B basis from €930pp inc tax.

Includes; flights, accommodation and transfers.

Travel: July 17 and 24 from Dublin. Includes €100 off offer. Visit www. concordetravel.ie or call 01 775 9300 5) American Holidays – Hawaii & Las Vegas.

Stay three nights at the 4-star Treasure Island in Las Vegas and 7 nights at 5* Hilton Hawaiian Village on a room only basis from €1,729pp. Quote ref 712829. Visit www.americanholidays.ie or call 01 673 3840.

23 June 2011 GAZETTE 21

l FLOWER POWER l

Special flower, special meaning, special day SAY it with flowers, the old advertising slogan used to chime.

But, if you’re planning to get married soon, you should bear in mind that the flowers might have something to say themselves on your special day.

Flowers carry a special meaning, passed down from generations gone by and before you start choosing the make up of your bouquets and table decorations, you might take a moment to reflect on the messages that your marigolds and rhododendrons might be sending.

In ancient times, people believed that the car-

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rying of strongly smelling flowers and herbs and spices repelled bad luck and ill health on their wedding day. In early Roman civilisation, brides and grooms used to wear floral garlands to signify hope of fertility. But the syntax of your shrubbery came into it’s own during Victorian times, when lovers exchanged different flowers to pass on their messages to each other.

Each flower symbolised a special meaning, and the recipient understood the message as clearly as if it were written on a piece of paper.

Today, most people

don’t speak flower, but on a day as important as your wedding, placing emphasis on what your flowers are saying can add another level of meaning to the subtext of your special day.

Let’s look at a few of the most appealing wedding flowers and their meanings.

Roses Roses have always been the most regularly chosen flower by brides throughout the world. Roses come in many colours, each of them with their own different meanings. White stands for innocence, beauty and charm, while

them in their wedding arrangements. However, they might if they understood their significance – daisies stand for romance and an innocent spirit.

Roses come in many different colours, each with their own meaning

red expresses a bride’s zeal and unending love towards her man.

Dark pink denotes thankfulness towards God that the bride and groom are made the man and wife, and an ivy-

coloured rose represents fidelity in marriage.

Tulips There are over 500 varieties of tulips, and they are considered the best for spring weddings

and are well recognised for the undying love and affection that they represent.

Daisies Everyone loves daisies.

But not many brides use

Calla Lilies These graceful flowers are reminders of past generations when grace and beauty were the rule.

Associated with elegance and charm, a calla lily would be the perfect flower if you wanted to create a sophisticated atmosphere for your wedding.

They also come in many different colours and varieties.

All graceful. All elegant.

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D u b l i n ’ s co m p l e t e g u i d e to yo u r w e d d i n g

l P E D I C U R E T R E AT M E N T M A K E S A S P L AS H l

A fishtastic experience to remember Q ANITA WARD

I THINK I can safely say that I don’t give my feet an easy time of it.

So, when we were discussing the new fish pedicure craze that seems to be everywhere at the moment, the consensus was that I would benefit the most.

Considering that I have a love of high-heeled shoes and horse-riding in equal measures, I’m not surprised that my feet are in a state.

I spend the better part of my day walking around the office in anything from four- to six-inch heels, and then, come the evening, I change into leather jodhpur boots and proceed to sweat a lot in them for the rest of the evening – very attractive!

I don’t even give my feet the luxury of some TLC, because I’m not overly fond of actually touching my feet, or having them touched. In fact, I’ve never even had a pedicure before – I know, the shame ...

Ealu Spa However, I was ridiculously curious about whether it was worth the hype, and what it would feel like, so I headed over to the Ealu Spa Therapy Salon in Naas, Co Kildare, to see what the fuss was all about.

Entering Ealu from a deluge of rain, I was greeted by the friendly staff and stepped into a little oasis of calm.

I was quickly introduced to the pedicure fish – Garra Rufa fish, I

was informed – and just hoped they were hungry, because my feet were a banquet of dead skin!

These little guys don’t get too full, apparently, despite the pedicure, and they are very happy in their job.

Their tank is placed on the floor beside a very comfortable looking recliner chair, with a built-in foot spa.

I met the lovely therapist, and she asked me to get comfortable on the chair and take off my shoes, and proceeded to wash my feet.

Your feet have to be free from any creams or chemicals (so, fake tan is a big no-no), but nail polish is fine.

The 150 little Garra Rufas got very excited at the prospect of a slap-up

Despite counting her toes before and after lowering them into a tank full of hungry Garra Rufa fish at Ealu Spa Therapy Salon, our writer swears by the marvellous pedicure treatment that they gave

meal on my tootsies as I lowered them into the water ...

To say it is an unusual feeling is an understatement – it’s not quite like someone touching your feet; it’s not unpleasant – it’s just bizarre! If anything, I could describe it like hundreds of little mini-vibrations, all working away together in different places on your feet.

These fish don’t nibble

at your feet, a common misconception – they don’t have teeth; it’s more like a sucking action.

They went to town on my feet – oh, and not just on my feet, but on my legs, too. Your leg goes up to mid-calf into the tank, so the fish were more than happy to give my legs a good clean as well.

I was fascinated with the fish as they busied themselves, with some of them even getting right in

Part of the welcoming environment at Ealu Spa

between my toes or, even funnier, fighting with each other to get the best position!

Experience The therapist offered me a magazine or something to drink, but I was quite happy to sit and soak up the experience by watching the little guys go to work.

The treatment lasts about 25 to 35 minutes, and it was strangely relax-

ing. Despite my reservations, I was actually excited to feel my feet afterwards, once the fish had finished happily working away on them.

I didn’t know if I expected them to turn their noses up at my foul feet, or to have a taste and then keel over and die.

Interestingly, the therapist told me about the benefits for people with skin conditions.

On lifting my feet out of the tank, I felt like I should be thanking the little guys for all of their hard work. Already I could feel that there was something different about my feet.

I was treated to another foot spa wash, and a massage, from the comfort of the comfy chair, and I got to touch my new feet.

I say “new” because, I swear, it was like I had baby skin on my feet – they had been reborn!

The skin was soft and smooth, and felt absolutely brand new!

I was very proud to show off all of the hard work of the little Garra Rufa fishies.

Ealu Spa are experts at making this odd craze of having fish make-over your feet seem perfectly normal, and at putting you at ease, and are offering a great deal of just €10 for 25 minutes in the tank – so you have no excuse not to try it out for yourself.

23 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Supported by AIB

Interview: Grainne Lowe, Malahide Books & Gifts

Opening a chapter on local book excellence GRAINNE Lowe opened Malahide Books & Gifts in July, 2009. She opened the Malahide shop after the success of her shop in Ratoath, which she opened in 2004.

Grainne runs the shops with her husband, Ciaran, and they pride themselves on excellent customer service, which became clear when Malahide Books & Gifts won the Friendliest Business Award, 2009 from the Junior Chamber of Commerce.

Grainne and Ciaran are running a very successful business, selling schoolbooks, school stationery, art and craft supplies and gifts.

They offer an online service, and have also introduced a savings scheme to help parents with the financial burden of backto-school purchases.

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS WHAT WELFARE ENTITLEMENTS CAN A SINGLE MOTHER CLAIM? Q – I am a single mother, and am due my baby in five months. Can you confirm exactly my welfare entitlements, as there seems to be some confusion. I am also unemployed, having been made redundant six months ago – it was my first job, and I was only there for 10 months.

Sharon – Terenure A - CONGRATULATIONS on the baby, first of all.

Raising children is a costly exercise. Some of the benefits payable by the State are based on PRSI contributions you may have made, so some of these you will be ineligible to claim Presumably, you are still claiming Jobseekers’ Allowance, or unemployment assistance. However, there are currently three main payments due to you on the arrival of your baby. Firstly, child benefit is the most common payment to families with children.

You are entitled to it because you satisfy a habitual residency test, and will have a dependent child that meets the criteria. Currently, this is €140 per month for the first and second child, and slightly more for subsequent children.

Secondly, Early Childcare Supplement (ECS) was

Grainne runs the shops with her husband, Ciaran

a payment to families with children under five years of age. This was €41.50 per month, up to December,

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

A: I wanted to be a vet, as I loved animals and petted every dog and cat I saw.

Q: What was your first job?

A: I worked in Woolworths on Henry Street when I was in school.

Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: I think it was €5 per day from Woolworths.

Q: When did you start your present job?

A: I opened my first shop, Ratoath Books & Gifts, seven years ago, and I opened Malahide Books & Gifts two years ago.

Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: I get great job satisfaction when things go well, and being my own boss is nice, too.

2009.

can’t pack a box – this is true!

Q: What sport do you follow?

A: Gaelic football and soccer (because my children play these sports).

Q: What sport can you play?

A: I was very athletic, in my day. I played camogie and basketball, and I was a sprinter, and I did the long jump. Unfortunately, I don’t have much time or energy for sport these days, but I hope to take up golf in a few years.

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

A: I love 80’s music; in fact, if you visit our shops, you will hear my favourites on my iPod. My favourite movie so far is Avatar; I could watch it over and over, and my favourite TV programme is Greys Anatomy.

Q: What part of your working day do you ‘delegate’?

A: I am not very good at

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

A: I would have to say David

shop displays and keeping things tidy, so, Amber and my daughter, Amanda, look after that side of the business for me.

There is a standing joke that I

Norris. I really enjoy listening to him on the radio, and I think his views are refreshing in these dire times. He would be a great ambassador for the

country if he made it to Aras an Uachtarain.

Q: What music/pictures/movies do you have on your iPod/ iPad? A: I have a good selection; mostly 80’s stuff, but I also have modern music on it, such as Black Eyed Peas, Bruno Mars, Katy Perry etc.

Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: Just my friends on Facebook.

Q: What was your last Tweet/ status update?

A: Beware of viruses.

Q: Describe your dream meal?

A: My favourite dinner is chicken with mushrooms and apricot in a brandy sauce – yum, yum.

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

A: Dame Edna, as at least I

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: Way too many.

Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: My worst holiday experience was the year my sister and I rented a mobile [home] in Wexford with our kids – I was six months pregnant, and got a tummy bug.

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: Somewhere that I didn’t have to lift a finger, and where I could eat and eat and not gain a pound.

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: You know, I have always worked, so I guess my dream would be not to work at all, and just potter around the house and garden, meet my friends for coffee whenever I felt like it, and cook and bake.

wouldn’t have to listen to more depressing news about our failing economy. Also, I could get a few fashion tips from her!

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

A: Potter around the house and

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: On the garden.

garden, meet my friends for coffee whenever I feel like it and cook and bake!

But, [as official information has previously said], “from January, 2010, ECS will be replaced with a free pre-school year of early childhood care and education for all children between the ages of three years, three months, and four years, six months.

Details of this scheme are available from the Office of the Minister for Children and Youth Affairs; Locall 1890 30 30 39”.

Thirdly, One-Parent Family Payment (OPF) is paid to men and women in Ireland who are bringing children up without the support of a partner.

You must satisfy a means test, and a habitual residence test. Currently, this is for €188 per week.

If you are working, you can also get a OPF tax credit; you do not have to get OPF to claim this tax credit.

Finally, I would talk to your local social welfare office for definitive answers on your particular circumstances – I have always found them helpful.

Their web site is: www.welfare.ie. Best of luck next September.

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

GOT A MATCH REPORT? Call our SPORTS TEAM on 60 10 240 or email sport@gazettegroup.com

24 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 June 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs HYUNDAI RESPONDS TO I40 REPORTS: HYUNDAI in Ireland has responded to reports about the specification and prices featured in this column last week for the new i40 car.

Hyundai emphasises that the prices quoted are not yet agreed and that the cars will come with a full five-year unlimited mileage warranty. Unfortunately, Hyundai will not be offering a full spare wheel, as reported, in the new i40, which will be available later this summer. And the company claims that the car does not replace the Sonata model, but in fact is geared for a different market segment.

Ibiza gets stretched for ST appeal MICHAEL MORONEY drove the Ibiza, and here’s his verdict I’VE had the Seat Ibiza ST, the estate version of the small Spanish-built car, out on test recently.

This is a stylish-looking small estate car built around the standard Ibiza model, with a new three-cylinder turbo-diesel engine as the power source.

The car scores well on style and design; it’s a Seat thing, they are now designing cars that look distinctive, even if they use the same engines and gearboxes as Skoda and Volkswagen cars. Those combined ingredients should make for a car worth having and a car that’s good to drive.

Add to that package the neat Volkswagen design 1.2-litre turbodiesel engine and you can expect thrift and low-cost motoring. And that’s just what you get.

This is a car that looks well and should be easy to buy and own. The addition of the estate concept gives more internal space for bigger loads, while built around the same wheelbase as the standard car.

The STversion is almost 200mm (8in) longer than the standard five-door hatchback and that’s significant enough when it comes to providing additional space.

Seat has added an ST, or mini estate version, to the Ibiza range to give more space and a family appeal

The rear seats fold down easily to increase the load area, making the car more attractive as a family choice where there are always awkward loads to be shifted, bikes included.

I liked the 60/40 split folding rear sears, roof rails in either black or chrome finish, a low load height

and wide rear hatch, a flat boot floor and some good storage areas throughout the ST’s interior, which allowed for ease of use on longer journeys.

That’s the outline of the Seat Ibiza ST package, which includes three specification options, either Reference, Style or Sport. Out on the road,

the car is more sluggish than I would have expected.

The 1.2-litre, three cylinder engine develops an impressive 75bhp, but you can feel that it’s doing the work. It’s a shade noisy and feels less smooth than you would like and this aspect of the car lets it down a little.

That’s a pity because this car has plenty going for it in terms of its space, flexibility and style. And the price is competitive too at €16,495 for the entry model, before delivery charges.

And while I don’t expect pace from such a small engine, its acceleration figure of 14.5 seconds for a 0 to 100km/hr race is reasonable. It’s just that it’s hard work getting there and there’s an unnecessary harshness to the car as a result.

This car scores highly in terms of value-for-money motoring with an impressive economy figure of 25 km/litre (4.0l/100km or 70mpg). That’s very good even in this segment of the market and it also helps the car to get into Band A for road tax purposes, giving an annual tax charge of just €104.

23 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25

GAZETTE

26 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 June 2011

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GazetteSPORT

MAKING THE RULES:

Ireland get set for Aussie Rules international cup: Page 29

SOCCER: DO ONE THING UNHCR INTERNATIONAL EVENT TAKES PLACE IN DUBLIN

Fair Play Cup sees SARI side take the spoils sport@gazettegroup.com

WORLD Refugee Day’s Do 1 Thing soccer celebrations kicked off in style when the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) Office in Ireland and Sport Against Racism Ireland (SARI) held its second annual Fair Play Football Cup in Dublin’s Law Society gardens.

On a day which also saw UNHCR commemorating the 60th anniver-

sary of the UN Convention Relating to Refugees, this year’s Fair Play Football Cup was won

by SARI Insaka when they beat the holders, Hot Press 1-0, courtesy of a first-half goal from Eddie Sirbu.

In a repeat of last year’s final it was SARI Insaka who started the brighter with early efforts coming from Sirbu and Chris Amour, with Hot Press, led by Niall Stokes, chasing the game. With very

little space or time given on the ball neither team seemed like breaking the deadlock until Sirbu popped up to score the decisive goal with a wonder individual low drive just before half time.

Hot Press chased the game after the restart, with Rafael Souto having their best opportunity but he blasted his shot just over the bar from close range, leaving the SARI Insaka captain Toheeb ‘Tiger’ Adigun

Action from the final between SARI Insaka and Hot Press at the World Refugee Day event last week

to lift the cup aloft after Newstalk’s Global Village presenter Dil Wickremasinghe presented the 2011 winners with the Fair Play Football Cup. “It was a brilliant tournament, we all really had fun, it’s not just about

winning but to take part was ver y impor tant.

Everyone really enjoyed themselves and we’re all looking forward to coming back next year to defend the cup,” said a jubilant Adigun after the final whistle.

Sophie Magennis, of

UNHCR Ireland, said: “We had a brilliant day today. It was great that lots of kids and families came down, and SARI Insaka were very worthy winners.

“It was also a great way to mark the 60th anniversary of the UN

convention on the status of refugees and we’d like to mark the importance of the convention in offering protection to refugees. But it’s also a day to mark the contribution refugees and asylum seekers make to Irish society.”

28 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 June 2011

GazetteSport Sport

Members of Adamstown Cricket Club gather before a training session

Cricket

New facility for club

Dhruv set to take the strike

DAMSTOWN Cricket Club will hold a grand opening ceremony for their new facility on July 24.

A new artificial cricket mat was laid in Adamstown Cricket Club’s home ground at Corkagh Park in April after much fundraising by its members. The club has two senior teams and one junior team and always welcoms new members.

The club membership has doubled in the last year, particularly after the Irish cricket team’s impressive performance in the World Cup. Members come from all over, with players from Lucan, Clondalkin, Celbridge and surrounding areas.

For more information, visit www.adamstowncricketclub.ie

A

Sanjeev in Ireland jersey

Adi unleashing his throw

Gerard observes the field of play

Waqas with a clean straight drive

Paul takes a second out from his coaching duties

23 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 29

in association with

Following Rules all the way to Oz

FastSport

Competing at the highest level in the sport, Ireland is sending a team to the International Aussie Rules cup in August, ROB HEIGH discovers

Touch squad heading for World Cup destiny

IRELAND is set to send a group of players to Australia later in the summer, who will compete for honours in the sport that the Australians themselves created — Aussie Rules Football.

The fast-paced, hardhitting and stamina-sapping sport so beloved in the Antipodes has been popular in Ireland for many years, and has been a fixture here since around 2000.

The links between the codes of Gaelic football and AFL are clearly defined, the clear connection being the compromise rules series that takes place between the two countries being very keenly contested.

However, playing the pure version of Aussie Rules was so appealing that the game has

spawned clubs across the country, with three teams based in Dublin, the South Dublin Swans, based in Bushey Park, the Dublin Demons, who are based in Islandbridge, and the North Dublin Saints, who play their games at Coolock.

Peter Ross, player with the South Dublin Swans and the Irish Warriors Aussie Rules Football team, spoke to Gazette Sport last week ahead of the serious preparation for the International Cup tournament, which takes place this year in Sydney from August 13 to 27.

“This year, the team will probably be the strongest ever sent to represent Ireland in the competition. We have rising stars, such as Richmond Tigers’ inter-

A team talk for the Ireland AFL team in London recently

national rookie and Westmeath GAA senior, John Heslin, playing for the Warriors, as well as David Stynes, a former Ballyboden St

the competitions, having previously won the event on its debut in 2002, and reaching the semi-final of the event in 2005 and 2008. The

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

‘A lot of young GAA players see Aussie Rules as an opportunity to become a professional player in a sport similar to the one they play already when they move there.’

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

Enda’s man and brother of Dublin star, Jim, who has lived in Melbourne for a number of years.”

Fourth tournament This is the fourth running of the tournament, that brings together the biggest international teams in Aussie Rules outside of Australia.

Ireland are among the top-seeded sides for

Irish side are on a roll following their victory in the European championships last year.

“In Ireland, there is a lot of media attention as there are so many GAA players out there. A lot of young GAA players see Aussie Rules as an opportunity to become a professional player in a sport very similar to the one they play already when they move there.

“The game is a huge professional sport in Australia, the players are well rewarded, not the same as you would get as a professional soccer player, but about the same as a professional r ugby player would receive.”

Australia will be absent from the event, as Peter says: “It would be like Ireland taking part in a world series of GAA event.” However, the tournament will visit some of the most famous stadiums in the

world with games being played in Sydney’s ANZ Stadium (where the Sydney Olympics were held) and the most iconic ground of them all, the Melbourne Cricket Ground.

Asked who the contenders for the crown would be in Sydney, Peter said: “There are some countries who are very strong in the sport, like New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and South Africa, which is seen as a big pool of talent for Aussie Rules. The AFL are looking to expand the game beyond Australia, and take it all over the world.”

When asked about what’s involved in playing the sport, Peter said: “Aussie rules is for allround athletes, and these countries produce very strong rugby players, but not everyone is built for rugby.

“Stamina is as important as strength, and there are a lot of players from these countries who are picked up by the Aussie Rules teams.

“T he average AFL player does a lot of catching and kicking, and will run over 14km per game. If you come to AFL from rugby, it’s a big shock to the system.”

To find out more about the sport in Ireland, see w w w.ar f li.com, and rishwarriorsaussierules. wordpress.com.

LOCAL faces from around Dublin will be competing against the best in the world this week when they take the field in Edinburgh at the 2011 Touch Rugby World Cup. Cllr Neale Richmond of Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council presented the players, managers, coaches and physios with their jerseys at Bewley’s Hotel, Ballsbridge last Saturday.

President of the Ireland Touch Association, Michael Davies, has high hopes for the teams as they head over to Edinburgh this week.

“Coming home from last year’s European Championships with titles in the Mixed Open and the Men’s Over-40 divisions has provided a great foundation going into the World Cup,” he said. “Handing the green jerseys to the players is recognition of their dedication to training and their ability in the sport.”

Ireland will be competing in four categories: Mixed Open (men and women of any age), Men’s Open (men of any age), Men’s Over-35 and Men’s Over-40.

For more, see irelandtouchassociation.com

30 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23 June 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

Track racing opportunity for training coming up LOCAL women cyclists are invited to attend two track-training days on June 26 and July 24 at the Sundrive Road Track, Eamon Ceannt Park, Dublin 12.

The training days are open to female riders of all ages and fitness levels. June 26 will be devoted to accreditation and introducing riders to the new and exciting Olympic Omnium event, as well as Team Pursuit and Team Sprint. July 24 will comprise a mock racing day, including all six Omnium events (flying lap, 500m TT, Pursuit, Scratch, Elimination and Points Races) Entry is €5, to include coaching and bike hire. An ordinary Cycling Ireland membership licence will suffice for June 26, but a racing or one-day licence will be required for July 24.

For further information on track racing and training events in Ireland, see trackcycling.ie.

Peamount holding trials PEAMOUNT United are holding a trials and an open day for their schoolboy and schoolgirl teams on Saturday, July 2 at Greenogue, Newcastle.

The sessions are: 10 to 11am, Under-8 (2004) and Under-9 (2003); 11am to 12pm, Under-10 (2002), Under-11 (2001) and Under-12 (2000); 12pm to 1pm, Under13 (1999), Under-14 (1998) and Under-15 (1997); 1 to 2pm, Under-16 (1996), Under-17 (1995) and Under-18 (1994).

Boys and girls born in 2005/2006 are invited to join the club’s football academy this

September and be coached under the guidance of Peamount’s UEFA A License Director of Football.

For further information, contact Jason on 083 422 9833 or see the club’s website, www. peamount.com.

Round Towers holding mass ROUND Tower GAA Club’s annual club Mass for deceased members, will be held in the clubrooms on Wednesday, July 6, at 8pm. All club members are encouraged to attend this Mass, which will be celebrated

by Fr John Wall, Clondalkin Parish PP.

SOCCER: FIRST SEASON AS DUAL-ENTITY ENDS WELL FOR LOCALS

Peamount Moyle Park have enjoyed a relatively successful first season as a joint entity after their merger last summer

PMP’s joint success JONNY STAPLETON sport@gazettegroup.com

IT MAY not have been a roaring one, but Peamount Moyle Park’s amalgamation season was a success none the less.

Off the pitch, things couldn’t have gone smoother, with both sides waxing lyrical about what the other has brought to the table.

Moyler are delighted with the sensational new facilities at their disposal, while Peamount are giddy as a result of the being in the dizzy heights of LSL Senior Sunday 1 for the first time in their history.

However, off the pitch, the Newcastle-based club’s management’s target of promotion wasn’t reached.

Boss Paul Pollard claims the club have been away from the top tier for too long, and is adamant that if his charges applied a more professional attitude to certain games, they could have threatened a return to the third-highest league in the land.

The former Moyler front man claims his side showed they are LSL Senior-worthy, with wins over the promoted sides Cherry Orchard and St Pat’s, but a lack of focus, mixed with a dollop of

Leaping to victory: Community Games LOUIS O’Loughlin from Clondalkin was

one of the many winners at the Dublin Commuinity Games Athletics finals at Morton Stadium last weekend, when he won the U-10 60m hurdles event.

Over 3,000 children, from 53 areas around the city and county filled the ground with energy and excitement when they competed in the full range of athletics disciplines on track and field.

Tony Feeney, president of Dublin Community Games said: “Well done to everyone who participated, and we wish those who qualified for the National Finals in Athlone the very best of luck.”

complacency, saw them drop points against the so-called lesser sides, and, in turn, ruined their promotion push.

“We are in this league too long. It’s four years now, and I think this club belongs at the top,” Pollard told GazetteSport.

Target “The management set a target of promotion last year, but I think we were equally happy just to ensure season one of the amalgamation went smoothly.

“We finished fifth and it wasn’t a bad season, but it wasn’t a great one. We had a slow start. We were good enough to go up.

“We matched Cherry Orchard and St Pat’s, and showed our quality there.

Where we may have suffered is against the midtable sides. We seemed to switch off against them.

“If we would have been more professional against the mid-table sides, we could have gone up.”

Despite stressing that the longer you are stuck in the LSL Senior 1 mud, the harder it is to get out of it, Pollard claims the club will retain their league upgrade goal when the upcoming campaign begins again tin the late summer.

The manager admits that, with the likes of Malahide, fellow

Clondalkin outfit, Dublin Bus, and Tallaght’s Scared Heart all entering the league it will be difficult.

However with a little bit of tweaking and freshening up he is confident promotion can be achieved.

“The longer you stay in this league the harder it is to get out of it. We know it will be difficult but we will try and win it next year. Everyone will strengthen, there are new sides coming into the league be it via promotion or relegation, but we feel we have the squad to go up. The top league is the one we want to be in.”

23 June 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 31

in association with

AFL 2: LATE POINTS PULL TOWERS CLEAR OF TOOLE’S

CLUB NOTICEBOARD ROUND TOWERS THE senior footballers recorded

The AED in the clubhouse is now in

two lea gue wins in a row over

a new alarm box. All trained per-

O’Toole’s and Naomh Fionbarra.

sonnel are asked to test access to

The junior A footballers beat Cuala in the championship and Innisfails in the league.

the device.

New training courses commence in two weeks.

The junior B footballers were

This week’s lotto numbers were 5,

beaten by Ranelagh Gaels in the

8, 9 and 19. Bonus Ball was 27. There

championship after extra time.

was no winner of this week’s jack-

Gaelic 4 Fathers light training

pot of €2,600.

session continues on Wednesdays

Congratulations to Angela Quinn,

at 7.15pm in the Community Centre.

Paddy Brennan and James Cullen

Spread the word, all welcome!

Jnr, who were the three €100 win-

Bingo continues this Tuesday in the club.

ners.

Next week’s jackpot is €2,800.

ST PATRICK’S, PALMERSTOWN Round Towers were able to steady the ship with minutes remaining to hit three crucial points against O’Toole’s

Eyes on the prize as Towers triumph

IT WAS with great sadness to all in

the match, Liam Rushe, on their fine

St Pat’s when on Tuesday of last

win against Galway.

week word filtered through that

Tickets for next Sunday’s Leinster

one of our founding members and

football semi-final match against

club president, John Daly had lost

Kildare can be collected at the

his battle with illness.

clubhouse this Thursday from 7.30

To his wife Betty, sons John, James and Manus, and daughter Siobhan we offer our sincere sympathy. Ar Dheis De go raibh a hAnam Dilis.

Senior footballer s drew their league fixture at home to O’Toole’s, while juniors lost away to Ballinteer

AFL DIVISION 2 Round Towers O’Toole’s PETER CARROLL

2-12 2-9

sport@gazettegroup.com

ROUND Towers looked to keep up the pressure on the top of the AFL 2 table when they faced a feisty O’Toole’s side at Monastery Road last week.

With their opponents just one point behind them coming into the g a m e , Towe r s we r e hoping that the advantage of their players being fresh due to the postponement of their last scheduled match against St Anne’s would give them the power to prevail.

Towers looked to put pressure on the away side early on, with Derek Murray putting the first point over the bar. This was followed by a well-struck Cathal Carty free, and Barry Gallagher nailed home another point after O’Toole’s hit back with two of their own.

Derek Murray powered into the O’Toole’s backs and, on the 12-minute mark, smacked a shot toward the opposition goal. The shot rebounded, however, but Murray collected and smashed the ball past the O’Toole’s goalkeeper to put the score at 1-3 to 0-2.

O’Toole’s were not going to be deterred and showed spirit to get straight back at the Clondalkin side, scoring four unanswered points. They then shut up shop, and the home side took nothing more from the half.

There was no separating the sides at halftime, 1-3 to 0-6.

night.

O’Toole’s stole a goal in controversial fashion to re-establish themselves. With Towers holding possession in midfield, Derek Murray seemed to be caught aw k w a r d l y i n w h a t looked like a stone-wall free-kick.

With the absence of any whistle from the referee, the ball broke to O’Toole’s, who flew toward Towers’ posts and grabbed a goal for themselves.

In response, Jason Joyce showed great

timing when he took the ball from corner forward and smashed it into the opposition net from about ten yards.

Scores were traded from this point, including an O’Toole’s goal, which levelled the game at 2-9 apiece in the last few minutes.

Three points from the Clondalkin side sealed victory, however, with strikes from Stephen McGibney, Derek Murray and Brian Gallagher winning the game for Towers in a very close encounter.

St John’s.

Senior hurlers are at home on Saturday to Raheny at 6.30pm.

Congratulations to the Dublin hurlers and to our St Pat’s man of

To visit our website, simply log on to www.stpatricksgaa.ie Lotto: Numbers drawn were 9, 13, 19 and 29. There was no winner of the €8,000 jackpot.

Match any three numbers winners were Johnny Foley and Tony Dowling and each receive €100.

Next week’s jackpot is €8,200.

Draw held each Sunday night at 10pm in the Palmerstown House.

LUCAN SARSFIELDS LUCAN Sarsfields continue their 125 celebrations with the launch of Na Sairsealigh Abu — 125 years of Lucan Sarsfields GAA club.

kenny.

Good wins by junior B hurlers and footballers in championship.

Good win also by senior football-

Everyone is welcome to the 12 Lock

ers in league over Oliver Plunkett’s

on Saturday, June 25 at 9pm for the

ER, and senior camogie team over

offical launch.

Naomh Mearnog.

Street league matches start this week from Friday, June 24.

P l a ye r s m u s t b e r e g i s t e r e d beforehand.

Two victories were notched up by the extremely talented Sarsfields Under-8 football team on Saturday away to Clanna Gael Fontenoy.

Summer camps have been fixed

Thiswas their ninth victory in

for the July 4 to 8 and 11 to 15; August

a row this year to maintain their

8 to 12 and 15 to 19t. Register online

100%winning record.

via website.

Discount if done before June 30.

Powerful T he half-time talk must have riled Towers, and they came out with force in the second half.

The Monastery Road side went three points up almost immediately, showing O’Toole’s that they wouldn’t be able to keep them out all

to 8.45pm.

Thanks to everyone who helped in recent clean up.

Well done to Dublin hurlers and in

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 1, 7, 10 and 26. There was no winner.

Next week’s jackpot is €2,000.

Sha y Hurson’s team will be in charge next weekend.

particular Johnny McCaffrey and

Do not forget you can alwa ys

Peter Kelly on great performances

enter our lotto online by clicking on

in helping Dublin reach the Leinster

www.lucansarsfields.ie.

hurling final.

Well done also to Alison Twomey and Mairi Moynihan who played for Dublin senior camogie team vs Kil-

Tickets also on sale in Carey’s Newsagents.

Thanks to John Ryan, Accountant, who are this week’s sponsor.

ALL OF YOUR CLONDALKIN SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

DUAL SUCCESS: Peamount Moyle Park reflect on their 2010/11 season P30

KICK IT! Ireland prepare for Aussie Rules tournament P29

GazetteSPORT

Liam Rushe was the man-of-the-match as Dublin bested the Tribesmen at Tullamore last weekend

JUNE 23, 2011

Rushe speeds Dubs into Leinster final St Pat’s star man-of-the-match as Galway disposed of in semi-final by ruthlessly efficient hurlers RONAN MOYLES clondalkinsport@gazettegroup.com

A MAN-of-the-match performance from Liam Rushe helped see the Dublin hurlers through to this year’s Leinster Hurling Championship final last Saturday evening.

The St Pat’s club man was in top form for the Dubliners as they saw off Galway 0-19 to 2-7 in the semi-final at O’Connor Park, Tullamore.

Rushe was obviously delighted with the win when he spoke to GazetteSport, but is under no illusions when it comes to the challenges that lie ahead.

“We knew it would be a massive challenge and it was. But we worked hard and we tackled well. We upped our game a level or two from the Offaly match and now we have to do the same again.”

Rushe was outstanding when moved to centre back following an 11th-minute injury to Tomas Brady. His performance, on his 21st

birthday, was enough to earn him the RTE Man-of-the-Match award.

He says that he was “happy enough” with his day’s work and that he wasn’t daunted by the positional switch. “I trained there in mid-week just in case. I have played there before and I’m comfortable with it.”

Many felt that Galway were below par in the game, with the Tribesman shooting a large number of wides. Rushe feels that it was more a case of a good Dublin defensive performance.

“They are far from being poor, they have quality players. Maybe they didn’t have the greatest of performances on the day but we put a lot of pressure on them. Maybe that contributed to the wides they had.”

Galway dangerman Joe Canning seemed particularly quiet but the St. Patrick’s man is quick to defend his performance. “He’s just back from injury and was maybe affected by his move out the field. His general play was good and he did get a cracking goal.”

The work isn’t done yet though: “It’s not the be-all and end-all; we played well enough to win a Leinster semi-final but that wouldn’t win you a Leinster final. We have plenty of work to do.”

They face a daunting challenge in Kilkenny in the July 3 decider. Rushe is acutely aware of magnitude of the task ahead: “It’s a massive challenge, every single one of their players is top-class.

“We will have to set out our defence, mark them man-to-man and work hard. They’ve brought in some new lads this year like Cathal Kenny and Richie Hogan. And obviously Henry (Shefflin) is back.”

Nonetheless, Rushe is looking forward to the game and is hopeful that Dublin can win the Leinster title.

It won’t be easy, but if Dublin can avenge last year’s final defeat they will bring the Bob O’Keeffe Cup back to the capital for the first time since 1938.