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August ug gus 25, 2011

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Theft is tops in local crime reports Q PAUL HOSFORD

THEFT and related offences continue to be the most common crime in the Clondalkin area, with nearly 1,000 reported incidents in the first half of 2011, but, in general, a number of offences look to be on the decline.

New figures released by the Central Statistics Office show that, between Clondalkin and Ronanstown, the numbers of theft are 509 and 474 reported

crimes, respectively.

Should the trends continue for the rest of the year, these figures will more or less match last year’s whole-year figures of 924 and 947 reports, though Clondalkin may see a rise.

At the two stations, Ronanstown and Clondalkin, Controlled Drug offences – number 144 and 96 respectively – are looking to be down on the 390 and 318 offences of 2010.

Full Story on Page 6

Sharing the fun: Stevie joins girls for a great local festival WITH so much to see at Tuthill’s car

park at the Clondalkin Heritage and Vintage Festival, organised by the Chamber of Commerce, The Gazette is happy to return to take a second look at some of the many locals who

enjoyed the show. Amongst those having a great time at the community event were Chelsea and Taylor Graham, while their dog, Stevie, also seemed to be enjoying the fun day.

See Gallery on Page 10

2 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25 August 2011

TRANSPORT: MINISTER PRAISES NEW DUBLIN BUS SCHEDULES

RETAIL Celebrating a development at McDonalds

New 68 and 69 routes confirmed Q PAUL HOSFORD clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

NEW schedules for local bus routes, numbers 68 and 69, have been confirmed this week.

The routes had been under threat during consultation for the expansion of the Network Direct scheme, but, thanks to local opposition to the move, the routes have been saved.

Confirmation of the new schedules has been welcomed by local politicians.

According to local Fine Gael TD, the Minister for Children, Frances Fitzgerald: “I was very concerned that residents in Newcastle, Saggart and Rathcoole were going to have their bus services curtailed.

“After meeting with Dublin Bus management in February, I was delighted that they reconsidered their initial proposal of running the 68 and 69 buses to the Red Cow only.

“This could have had a huge impact on commuters, who would have to take two buses. As well as the extra expense, there

were concerns that the villages would become isolated from the city centre,” said Minister Fitzgerald.

As part of Network Direct, from Sunday, August 28, a more “direct, high-frequency, punctual bus service” will be introduced to Newcastle and Rathcoole.

Route 68 will provide direct connections from Newcastle, Cherrywood, Clondalkin and Inchicore to key business and shopping areas in the southeast of the city.

Route 69 will offer improved timetables, with an hourly service operating at consistent intervals between journeys.

Minister Fitzgerald was also pleased at other improvements to the 68 and 69 bus services.

“I think it is brilliant that Dublin Bus have given a commitment to putting newer, low-floor buses on these routes.

“Accessibility is a major factor for people with a disability trying to use transport services, and the knowledge that all buses on these routes are accessible is a real step forward,” she said.

Arels Dedja and Bob the Builder

Luke and Trisha Fay and Shannon and Lily Leonard join Bob and Livvie

Cian and Cathal Byrne with Ronald McDonald

Livvie and Bob greet a co-worker at the centre

Taking away great memories

O COINCIDE with the official opening of the new 24-hour drive-thru McDonald’s, the Retail Park Liffey Valley staged a free family fun day as a thank-you to all of its loyal customers.

There was lots of fun in the park, with go-karts, a bouncing castle,

T

air dancers, a face-painter and a balloon modeller, amongst others, entertaining the crowd.

Livvie, the retail park bear, and Bob the Builder also made special appearances, not to forget Ronald McDonald.

Meanwhile, the FM104 Road Hog

ensured that there was great music throughout the day.

Three lucky winners also won €100 vouchers for a retailer of their choice at the park, while there were also great bargains snapped up on the day from PC World, Harry Corry, Atlantic, JJB and Halfords.

25 August 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 3

ACTIVITY Getting around Corkagh Park with Zorbing

An ab-Zorbing experience for everyone!

Q HIROMI MOONEY

clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

HOW would you feel about being strapped inside a giant, clear plastic ball and rolling down a hill that is sloped for more than 100 metres?

Some of you will say: “It’s not for me”, but some of you who love an adventure, would want to give it a go.

You can try out this thrilling Zorbing experience for yourself at Outdoor Discovery Adventure Company’s Dublin Centre in Corkagh Park in Clondalkin.

Outdoor Discovery was founded in County Longford in 2007 by

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Alex Stanley, and their new Clondalkin Centre opened two months ago. The manager at the Clondalkin Centre, Conor Ryan, encourages people to come and try Zorbing.

“It’s a unique experience. It’s an adrenaline rush, and it goes on for too long for some people,” he says.

“Everybody needs a bit of excitement: one bit of excitement in their day – at least one bit every day.

So we should try these things.”

Ryan says that they allow people to Zorb if they are over eight years of age, are over 4’6” in height and weigh less than 16 stone. The Zorb

balls can fit two people who will either stand or sit opposite each other with their arms, feet and waists strapped against the Zorb’s inner wall.

They will then be pushed down the hill and will tumble down until they reach level ground.

If you prefer to try out a less dizzy experience in a ball, you can also try out the Aqua Spheres.

Here, you will stand inside a giant, inflated clear plastic ball and attempt to run on a lake – it feels as if you are a hamster running in a wheel. The Aqua Spheres are tied to the shore by a rope, but it’s hard to get far when you’re trying to

balance on water.

The Clondalkin Centre also offers other outdoor activities including archery, kayaking, an orienteering course and team-building games.

They are open from Thursdays to Sundays, and also take private group bookings.

For more information, visit www.outdoordiscovery.ie or call Conor Ryan on 085 850 6025.

Downhill, or on the water, Downhill water Zorbing is taking Corkagh Park by storm

4 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25 August 2011

ARTS: SHOWCASING ALL KINDS OF CREATIVITY

COUNCIL Calls for greater urgency

Introducing Celebration Q STAFF REPORTER

news@gazettegroup.com

SOUTH Dublin County Council is pleased to introduce Celebration, an event which involves social inclusion through the performing arts, and which will take place on Monday, November 21, in the Civic Centre, Tallaght at 8pm.

Celebration is a spectacular event that will showcase all talent and creativity in South Dublin County. Groups or single acts are all welcome to enter. Participants must

be from age 10 upwards.

A prize will be awarded for the best performance on the night. The final date for applications is Friday, September 30.

For further information on the exciting event, and for nomination forms, please visit the website at http://socialinclusion. southdublin.ie, or contact Maria Finn, Social Inclusion Officer, Community Services Department, South Dublin County Council, Tallaght, You can also telephone 01 414 9270 or email mfinn@sdublincoco.ie.

South Dublin County Council has been quizzed over its Five-Year Playground Construction Programme

SDCC playground plan is moving ‘at snail’s pace’ Q PAUL HOSFORD

clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

THE Five-Year Playground Programme in South Dublin is being implemented at a “snail’s pace” Labour Councillor Eamon Tuffy said this week.

Councillor Tuffy said a review on the provision of playgrounds by South Dublin County Council also required “greater urgency”.

Speaking at a recent council meeting, Councillor Tuffy sought a progress report on the implementation of SDCC’s present playground programme.

He said he wanted to see the council’s Play

Policy and the Five-Year Playground Programme be given more priority and brought to a conclusion so that it could be brought before local councillors this autumn.

However, responding to Councillor Tuffy, SDCC said any increase in the speed of delivery was not feasible.

“It is not feasible for the review of the Play Policy and the Five-Year Playground Construction Programme to be brought to a conclusion in time to have a report brought before the September council meeting as suggested, but this motion, if carried, will be brought directly to the attention of the review

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‘It is not feasible for the review to be brought to a conclusion in time for the September meeting’ --------------------------

group. It must also be reiterated that any future projects are subject to the identification of finance to carry out the works proposed,” said the Council.

But, speaking to the Gazette, Councillor Tuffy said: “The review needs greater urgency and should consider

plans for more smaller playgrounds throughout county, and a more flexible approach than the present Playground Programme, which includes only large playgrounds.

“I believe the present programme, which is being implemented at a snail’s pace, is too inflexible, and I think we should look at putting smaller playgrounds into estate open spaces, small parks, and also looking to co-operation with school and church authorities to provide play facilities on their grounds.

“My motion was not reached at the meeting, so, rather than have it formally passed without

discussion, I decided to leave it on the agenda for September so that all councillors can contribute to a debate on our approach to provision of play and outdoor exercise facilities.

“But the fact is that there is no playground in Palmerstown, only one in Lucan, and whole areas of Lucan up around Ballyowen, Liffey Valley Park, Mount Andrew, where there is a large population of young children.

“Children grow up very quickly, and we have a responsibility to provide safe outdoor play facilities, where they can have fun and get healthy exercise,” said Cllr Tuffy.

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25 August 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 5

FUNDRAISING A little support will make a big difference for children HERITAGE: EVENT

Lift spirits with a kite Q NATALIE BURKE

FIVE-YEAR-OLD James Casserly is one of many children with a physical disability supported by Irish charity, Enable Ireland.

James, who has cerebral palsy, attends the Enable Ireland Tallaght service and is helping the charity promote the launch of their second annual No Limits Kite Appeal this September.

Campaign The campaign, which is designed to “lift spirits”, will take place from Monday, August 19, to Saturday, September 24.

During the campaign, the charity will be asking the public to Buy a Little Kite – Make a Big Difference, supporting its services by buying a kite pin (€2), or a kite trolley disc (€2).

The idea of the cam-

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The idea of the campaign is that it will provide a platform for children and adults with disabilities using Enable Ireland services to talk about how they live with no limits --------------------------

paign is to provide a platform for children and adults with disabilities using Enable Ireland services to talk about how they live their lives with “no limits”, whilst raising much-needed funds to support the charity’s

important work.

James, and the charity, are seeking volunteers to help support the campaign, and to donate some time to help Enable Ireland.

Dorothy Barry, retail and fundraising director for Enable Ireland, said: “The Kite Appeal is a really fun campaign and we want the public to get on board and live life with no limits, too.

“There are lots of ways you can help – make a donation online at www. nolimits.ie, and read our inspirational No Limits’ Champions stories; buy a kite pin where you see them on sale throughout September, or even run your own No Limits event,” she said.

If you are interested in supporting the No Limits kite appeal, email campaigns@enableireland.ie; call 1850 204 304, or visit www.enableireland.ie.

Water lot of fun at canal Q STAFF REPORTER

LOCALS are invited to take part in the Wealth of Heritage at 12th Lock event this weekend, to celebrate National Heritage Week in Lucan.

T he event, which was organised by local residents, John and Bev Power, will take place on Saturday, August 27, from 1 to 3pm at the 12th Lock heritage and recreation area on the Grand Canal in Lucan.

The organisers have confirmed they will have a boat for this year’s event, which will treat children to a trip down the canal on the day.

The day will feature the wealth of heritage in the area, including the remarkable Thomas Omer Lock House, the old Grange Mills, the existing 18th-century canal lock and bridge and the ruins of Grange Castle.

Five-year-old James, from Lucan, helping Enable Ireland’s search for volunteers for the No Limits Kite Appeal

6 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25 August 2011

CRIME: 1,000 INSTANCES REPORTED LOCALLY IN JUST SIX MONTHS

Theft is the most common offence Q PAUL HOSFORD

clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

THEF T and related offences continue to be the most common crime in the Clondalkin area, with nearly 1,000 reported incidents in the first half of 2011, but, in general, a number of offences look to be on the decline.

New figures released by the Central Statistics Office (CSO) show that between Clondalkin and Ronanstown, the numbers of theft are 509 and 474 respectively.

Should the trends continue for the rest of the year, these figures will more or less match last year’s whole-year figures of 924 and 947 reports, though Clondalkin may see a rise.

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‘Both stations’ numbers for burglary look set to match, or top, last year’s numbers, with Ronanstown’s 92 on course to match last year’s 179, with Clondalkin’s 136 already ton course to top last year’s 230’ --------------------------

In general, the figures for some types of crime look set to mirror those of last year, with Ronanstown’s 76 Attempts/ T hreats to Murder, Assaults, Harassments and Related offences for the first half of this year

just over half of last year’s 136.

This offence is much lower in Clondalkin, with 46 reports indicating a decline on last year’s whole-year number of 123.

Both stations’ numbers for burglary look set to match, or top, last year’s numbers, with Ronanstown’s 92 on course to more or less match last year’s 179, while Clondalkin’s 136 already on course to top last year’s 230.

Fraud and robbery are both set to match last year’s figures, but other offences make for good reading for residents and law enforcement alike.

Dangerous and negligent acts are on course to be down in both stations, with 34 and 53 instances in Ronanstown and Clondalkin respectively, compared to 85 and 168, marking a major decrease in Clondalkin.

Offences Also down at the two stations are Controlled Drug offences, 144 and 96 respectively, looking to be down on the 390 and 318 offences of 2010.

Weapons and explosives offences are also set to be down, with halfyear figures of 17 and 26 comparing favourably to 60 and 72 for the year of 2010.

Damage to property and public order offences both look set to fall for the whole year, with Ronanstown having 197 and 157 of each of these figures.

These compare well with the figures of 470 and 374 for 2010.

In Clondalkin, these numbers are 282 and 167, comparing well with 630 and 454.

A taste of success: Minister congratulates students on their Leaving Cert results THE MINISTER for Children and Youth Affairs, Frances Fitzgerald, has congratulated students on their Leaving Cert results and paid tribute to local schools, teachers and families on all the effort that goes into preparing students for the exams.

“I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to all our local students on their Leaving Cert results. From the feedback I have received, it seems there has been some very good results in our community this year but I would encourage all students, regardless of their results, to look at their options. There is something out there for everybody and there are many ways of achieving your

goals and getting to where you want to,” said Minister Fitzgerald.

“As Minister for Children and Youth Affairs, I know the stress that students face coming up to exams. I still remember the nerve-wracking feeling of collecting my Leaving Cert results and I am sure students and their parents are relieved that the results are now out,” said the Minister.

Minister Fitzgerald wished the students the best of luck and encouraged those with concerns to talk to their schools or call the dedicated helpline at 1800 265 165.

EXAMINATIONS: CLASSES OF 2011 DELIGHTED WITH OUTCOME

Hard work and dedication is praised by Principals Q HIROMI MOONEY

clondalkin@gazettegroup.com

THERE were tears of joy as the class of 2011 opened their Leaving Certificate results envelopes across Lucan and Clondalkin last Wednesday.

In Lucan, 130 students sat the Leaving Certificate Examinations at St Joseph’s College in June, and a number of them celebrated achieving over 500 points.

“Absolutely delighted.

They’re really excellent.

We’re very pleased with our Maths results,” said

the school’s principal, Siobhan Corry.

Meanwhile, 40 students sat the Leaving Certificate Examinations in Colaiste Cois Life in Lucan, and 10 of them reached over 500 points.

Their principal, Tomas O Donnagain, said that the average points achieved was 405.

“They’re a very good group, and we’re very happy for them,” he said.

Lucan Community College also celebrated high results, with students Rachael O’Neill and David O’Sullivan achieving 590 points

each from 5 A1s and 1 A2. Their principal, Diane Birnie, said that she is delighted with the standard of results achieved this year.

“It is a measure of the hard work and determination of the students, the preparation and encouragement of their teachers and the support of their parents,” she said.

“We are delighted that so many students in our school community can achieve so highly in the Leaving Cert exam. They can be proud of the work they put into preparing for their examinations

and can now build on these results as they prepare for their future studies and careers. A small number of students were unhappy with their results but they know that there are other paths that can lead them to their desired destination and that the support of guidance staff is on offer to them.”

Almost 100 students sat the Leaving Certificate Examinations in Moyle Park College in Clondalkin. The school’s principal, Aiden Clarke, said that the average points are higher than that of last year.

“The sun was shining up here this morning and it really kind of matched their moods,” he said.

“They’re extremely happy with how they’ve done and so are the teachers.”

There were also celebrations in Deansrath Community College in Clondalkin. Their principal, Maria Shannon, said that she thinks that the results are very good.

“I think that they reflect the hard work put in by students,” she said.

“Our maths and our science seems to be very good, and, overall, we’re very pleased with them.”

25 August 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 7

8 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25 August 2011

EVENT The Rose of Tralee Festival 2011 finalists helped

Finalists fall in to help out HE Rose of Tralee International Festival 2011 finalists helped celebrate the launch of the new Carlton Hotel in Blanchardstown recently.

Formerly The Plaza Hotel, Tyrrelstown, the Carlton Hotel Blanchardstown was launched in the company of the 32 Roses.

The Carlton Hotel Group is one of the main sponsors of the Rose of Tralee, and every year the Roses begin their Official Rose Tour at the Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport. They began their tour last Sunday, but this year the location of the ball was changed to the new Carlton Hotel Blanchardstown to coincide with its launch.

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Peter Cooke, Carlton Hotel Blanchardstown, Sean O’Brien, Leinster Rugby player, Clare Kambamettu, Rose of Tralee 2010, Devin Hotel Group

Tipperary Rose and Declan Meagher, general manager, Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport

The Boston and New England Rose, Philadelphia Rose, Big Apple Rose and Queensland Rose

Anthony O’Gara, managing director of The Rose of Tralee Festival, Jean O’Connoll, director of Sales and Marketing for The Carlton Hotel Group, Declan Meagher, general manager, The Carlton Hotel Dublin Airport, Daithi O’Se, Clare Kambamuettu Rose of Tralee 2010, Michael Kearney, CEO of The Carlton Hotel Group, Declan Curtis, general manager of the Carlton Hotel The Toronto Rose and Audrey McDonald, from Aerlingus

Blanchardstown and John Varley, director of The Carlton Hotel Group

25 August 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 9

celebrate the launch of the new Carlton Hotel

The Wexford, Laois, Roscommon and Texas Roses

Rose of Tralee 2010 Clare Kambamettu with Darren Toner, Leinster Rugby player, Michael Kearney, CEO Carlton

Kearney, sales and marketing executive, Carlton

Germany Rose and Sunderland Rose with Declan Curtis, general

Hotel Group

manager, of The Carlton Blanchardstown

10 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25 August 2011

TAKE TWO Return to Clondalkin Heritage and Vintage Festival

A member of Clondalkin Youth Band

Chelsea and Taylor Graham with their dog, Stevie. Pictures: Geraldine Woods

Celebrating with a community spirit ITH so much to see at Tuthill’s car park at the Clondalkin Heritage and Vintage Festival, organised by the Chamber of Commerce, The Gazette is happy to return to take a second look at some of the many locals who enjoyed the show.

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Gosia Sobiecka

Several vintage cars drew many admiring glances, while everyone enjoyed the day’s festivities, which included face-painting and balloons for young children, while Clondalkin Youth Band, singer Sean Boland and even a formation fly-over by some of

Joe Ledwidge, Jim Boland and Eric Graham

Some of the classic cars on show at the festival

the Air Corps from Baldonnel added to the fun.

Thyes Kavanagh gave thanks to Jim Senior, owner of 70 vintage cars, and John Boland, of Boland’s Garage, for their help, without which the day would not have been possible.

Kay Doyle

Brendan Donaghy

25 August 2011 GAZETTE 11

12 GAZETTE 25 August 2011

GazettePETS PETS

Brought to you by Miriam Kerins of the DSPCA

THE FACTS: EXOTIC PETS RETAIN NATURAL PREDATORY AND DEFENSIVE INSTINCTS

it’s difficult to provide for the physical, psychological and behavioural requirements

Owning an exotic pet XOTIC animals are unsuitable companion pets.

Honestly, I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve said this to people.

And why are they unsuitable? I hear you ask.

Because, once in a captive environment, it’s difficult to provide for the physical, psychological and behavioural requirements of these unique animals and, in my opinion, this makes for an irresponsible, dangerous situation – even if exotic pet owners believe otherwise.

I mean, regardless of your belief on this issue, you don’t have to be Sherlock Holmes to realise that owning an exotic animal can prove dangerous for you and for the animal because you can never predict their behaviour…EVER!

E

Also, with the vast variety of companion animals available to potential pet parents, and who are at this moment sitting in rescue shelters waiting for good homes, you know, gorgeous f luffy cats, majestic, loyal dogs, cute, cuddly bunnies, et al, I have to ask myself why so many people still insist on seeking out these wonderful, yet highly unsuitable, creatures as pets.

You see, domestic animals are bred by humans over thousands of generations. They are dependant, predictable and controllable.

Howe ve r, d e s p i t e several generations of captive breeding, wild, exotic animals continue to retain their natural predatory and defensive instincts. Prey species become anxious during captivity, making them dangerous and unsuitable to living in an envi-

ronment with other animals and humans.

So, let’s ask ourselves the question: What is an exotic animal and how is it different from keeping a companion animal?

An exotic animal is a wild animal taken out of its natural habitat and bred in captivity. It may be sold as a companion animal, but it can never truly be a companion to a human being.

The Dublin SPCA understands the needs of companion animals and the veterinary care and specific requirements important to their wellbeing.

Suffering

Exotics often suffer immensely because most people don’t have the resources or knowledge to properly meet their requirements.

The exotic pet trade is big business and many

teens buy them as socalled status symbol pets or as novelties.

However, owners must remember exotic animals cannot perform tricks, they ignore their owners and are difficult to care for.

When selecting an exotic, people don’t consider how large they will grow and how long they will live. For example, animals such as macaws and box turtles can even outlive their human owners.

Also, when the novelty of owning an exotic diminishes, the reality of the high-care cost, lack of interaction, increase in responsibility, not to mention size, soon sets in. This leads to the animals being abandoned or surrendered to a welfare shelter such as the Dublin SPCA. If you insist on owning an exotic animal, despite

what I’ve advised, then have a look at my checklist below: • Will the animal create unpleasant smells?

• How long will this animal live?

• How large/long will this animal grow?

• What is the specific diet of this animal?

• How much enjoyment/pleasure will I get from owning this animal?

• What are the environmental requirements of this animal?

• Will this animal be a danger to me and others?

• What are the legal requirements of owning this animal?

• How can I provide specific veterinary care for this animal?

chlamydia, giardia, hepatitis A, rabies, ringworm, tuberculosis and scabies from owning certain exotic animals? And no, I’m not auditioning for Mastermind. I’m trying to inform all you wannabe exotic pet owners that keeping an exotic is bad for your health, not to mention your social life.

Some of the above

are very serious and some may even prove fatal, but one thing’s for sure – they’re all bound to diminish your list of Facebook friends faster than you can say Albino Burmese Python.

For more info log onto www.dspca.ie, consult your vet or email me at miriam.kerins@dspca. ie

And Another Thing…

Did you know you can get such diseases as salmonella, herpes B,

Unfortunately, some exotic pets can also carry exotic diseases, requiring extra attention from owners

25 August 2011 GAZETTE 13

GazetteGAMING GAMING

Digging into a world of wonder For example, by attacking a tree with your bare hands, you can break off raw wood.

This wood can then be split to create sticks, or combined to create, say, a rudimentary wooden axe (to chop down trees faster), or a basic pickaxe.

With a pickaxe, the player can then mine some stone from the ground/hills, creating a stronger pickaxe, or mining blocks of stone.

By following this basic pattern of splitting some materials, or combining others, and by experimenting with combinations of raw materials, the player can rapidly create a wide range of tools and objects.

So, whether the player simply wants to build a tiny cottage, or a vast city – and teams of people

This randomly-generated Minecraft world is just waiting for the player to make their mark, whether by planting more trees, digging for treasure, building a canal or even an entire city – whatever the player wants

all over the world have created some truly vast cities and exotic worlds – Minecraft has more than enough scope to do so.

And, considering that the coders say that it’s clever enough for a single Minecraft world to be many times the size of the

surface of the earth, the players need never see, or do, the same thing twice, per “level” or world.

Started as a single programmer’s experimental dabbling with worldbuilding, Minecraft has, in a couple of short years, spiralled into a small

team of coders, programming and modifying this world-building program – it’s debatable if it can even be called a game – that has seen tens of millions of users pay for their own pre-release copy.

With games regularly lambasted as being too

violent, or mindless, repetitive and numbing, it’s a pleasure to highlight one of several titles that celebrates creativity, and one that is as unique as each individual user.

For further details, or to sign up, see www. minecraft.net.

gazette

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

.com

WITH a whole world of gaming to dig into, where to begin with a regular column? Well, by looking at a world that’s all about digging. Literally.

Minecraft has taken the widely-used gaming terms “open world” and “sandbox” to create a single genre of its very own on PC (with an IOS version also in the works).

Some clever coding randomly, yet procedurally, generates worlds that are made by uniformlysized squares, each of which has a different texture – such as for grass, earth, sand, etc – along with different physical and, in some cases, physics-related properties.

By wandering around the world like a modernday Robinson Crusoe,

Minecraft continues to create the world you’re wandering in.

Rivers, lakes, forests, seas, lava flows and more form as the player moves, complete with vegetation and wildlife, while day and night cycle through, and the weather changes, depending on whether you’re in a desert, forest or snow area.

And yet, the expansive surface of the world is only part of the Minecraft experience, as the world also generates vast cave and tunnel systems underneath, where coal, iron, gold and diamonds wait to be mined, and then used.

“Minecraft” relates to the way that the world works – by mining (or processing) away, the world is permanently reshaped by your actions.

www.

SHANE DILLON

14 GAZETTE 25 August 2011

GazetteTTRAVEL FastTravel Cruising the Arabian Gulf with special travel packages from Thomas Cook Cruises CRUISING the Arabian Gulf is sure to conjure up exotic images in the minds of even the most seasoned of travellers, but a special package from Thomas Cook Cruises this December makes it a very accessible option for the everyday holidaymaker.

On board the distincAl Jahili Fort at sunset tively grand Brilliance of the Seas, the voyage takes in the famous names of this most alluring part of the world, starting in Dubai, moving on to Fujairah followed by two days in Muscat in the Sultan of Oman. Then it’s on to Abu Dhabi and back to Dubai. With endless sunshine and endless pre-Christmas shopping, a visit to the Emirates at this time of year makes for a complete getaway.

The 10-day trip from Thomas Cook Cruises includes flights from Dublin and an overnight stay in 4-star Hilton Hotel in Dubai, as well as port taxes and gratuities on board. For the December 5 departure, prices start from just €1,059 per person.

All Thomas Cook Cruise bookings are fully bonded so money is secured.

To book or to order a brochure call the Thomas Cook Cruise team in Dublin on 0818 200 101, or visit your local travel agent.

Discovering the cultural hotspots of Scotland MIMI MURRAY

STEEPED in history, Scotland is the perfect place for a whistle-stop tour of its many museums, cultural sites and iconic buildings.

We decided to pack our three-day trip with as much culture as possible and made our way from Edinburgh, to Stirling and back to Glasgow, devouring as much as we could.

There are a surprising number of brand new cultural hotspots that have opened or will open in Scotland in the next couple of months and visitors with an interest in arts and culture will be spoilt for choice this year.

We started out in Edinburgh, during the Fringe Festival, so the city was absolutely buzzing with creativity and excitement.

We were treated to a sneak preview of the Scottish National Portrait Gallery, which will re-open on November 30, St Andrew’s Day, after a closure of two years. It is being massively upgraded and redevel-

oped in a project that aims to restore and reveal much more of the building than ever before.

The gallery will be able to show many more works of art, introducing a new, regularly changing display programme. The many iconic figures on show include Mary, Queen of Scots, William Wallace and Sean Connery.

Later that day, we stopped into the National Museum, which has undergone a multimillion pound refurbishment.

This is an awesome building, which is a perennial site to visit for locals and will be jaw-dropping for visitors.

This massively popular museum has reopened after a £46 million refurbishment with a new layout. This will enable much greater access to the collections, an improved visitor experience, as well as a greater appreciation of the iconic Victorian building.

An exciting display for kids are the flying animals and mammals. Other

An exciting display of flying animals and mammals in the National Museum of Scotland. Picture: Rob McDougall

highlights include Egyptian mummies, precious rocks and stones, as well as a mishmash of truly interesting artefacts that, in some way, connect to Scotland and its rich history.

The following day we made our way to Stirling.

It has just been given city status and the old town, which is on a steep drive to the castle, is extremely pretty.

The castle is very striking and majestic and locals say that if you held on to Stirling, you held on to Scotland. From the castle walls, you can see the iconic bridge where William Wallace launched his famous battle against the English and, even though the Scottish were outnumbered, they routed the English.

Mary, Queen of Scots, was born in the palace, which has been brought back to its former glory and re-enactments take place in the castle throughout the day. Our friendly guide told us that, in the morning, the staff regularly find an indentation on the bed in which Mary’s mother, Mary of Guise, would sleep. Every castle needs a ghost and this one sounds benevolent!

The £12 million project has returned the six ground-floor apartments in the castle’s Renaissance palace to how they may have looked in the mid16th century. The work has already uncovered fascinating historical finds and insights into this peri-

The spectacular Riverside

od of history, including the remains of what may have been a 15th-century knight killed in battle and buried beneath the floor of a previously unknown royal chapel.

Next it was on to Glasgow and the spectacular Riverside Museum, which was designed by star architect, Zaha Hadid.

This was her first major public commission in the UK and the characteristically bold, flowing shapes of the building are already winning fans. It houses the Transport Museum, which really is one of the most interesting and wellthought-out exhibitions I have ever been to.

Some nice places to eat in Edinburgh include Lancers Brasserie in the more upmarket area of Stockbridge. Di Maggio’s is great for families in both Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Stravaigans in Glasgow’s West End is great for brunch and the Ubiqitous Chip is definitely worth a look. We flew to Scotland with Aer Lingus, which operates several flights to and from Edinburgh and Glasgow each day.

For more information, go to www.visitscotland. com/surprise.

25 August 2011 GAZETTE 15

Edited by Mimi Murray

WeddingTravel Helping remove the hassle of planning a wedding abroad

National Museum of Scotland. Picture: National Museums Scotland

Museum, designed by architect, Zaha Hadi. Picture: Rob McDougall

National Portrait Gallery. Picture: National Museums Scotland

WHETHER you wish to marry in the beautiful Old Town of Dubrovnik, or at one of Cyprus’s romantic beachfront locations, Concorde Travel can offer assistance with arrangements and remove the hassle from the most important day in a couple’s lives.

The new Concorde Wedding brochure includes the ever popular destinations of Cyprus, Croatia, Montenegro and Malta and the new exciting wedding option of the Algarve in Portugal. Understanding that every wedding is unique and that organising a wedding abroad can be time consuming and demanding, Concorde Travel aim to offer a personalised service that is focused on making your day unforgettable and stress free.

The typical starting price for a wedding package abroad is €4,000 and includes wedding fees, travel and hotel for bride and groom, catering for 30 guests, photography, music, flowers, bridal hair and make-up. Visit www. concordetravel.ie to inquire or book your wedding with Concorde Travel today.

16 SWORDS GAZETTE 25 August 2011

GazetteENTERTAINMENT ENTERTAINMENT

1

GoingOUT GoingOUT PAVILION THEATRE 01 231 2929 Treasure Island BALLET Ireland’s annual summer school sets sail for the Pavilion Theatre with a twist on the classic tale of Treasure Island, which is being presented by the participants of the summer school.

Four highly-skilled dancers from Ballet Ireland’s core company are leading the participants, preparing and training everyone for the grand finale. Running this week, and concluding on Friday, August 26, the final show promises to be a wonderful treat for all ballet and dance fans. For full details, see www.paviliontheatre.ie

THE HELIX 01 700 7000 Summer Films AS PART of its summer season of family films, The Helix still has a number of favourites for all to enjoy. Running at 2pm, and priced €6, €4 conc, or €20 season ticket (phone booking only), Fantastic Mr Fox plays on Saturday, August 27; and Willy Wonka and The Chocolate Factory on September 3, with both films promising to bring a great conclusion to the enjoyable season.

THE MILL 01 296 9340 Mountains to the Sea DLR Book Festival 2011 ALREADY proving to be one to watch out for, The Mill is gearing itself up for the upcoming Mountains to the Sea DLR Book Festival 2011, which will take place at the popular Dundrum venue on Wednesday, September 7 and Thursday, September 8, and will see authors such as Roddy Doyle taking part. For full details of the festival’s events, see www.milltheatre.ie.

Jim Sturgess and Anne Hathaway cross paths, again and again and again in One Day, just one of a number of new films on current release

A mixed bag of films

Still in the lull of late summer, there’s a variety of passable films out there, yet nothing especially eye-catching, says Kate KATE CROWLEY

IT OCCURS to me that, now that the school holidays are finally ending, and with colleges also soon to resume, we grown-ups will finally have a bit more peace and quiet at cinemas, once the bloomin’ kids are packed off to one educational institution or another.

So, as much as I’ll miss darling Crowleyetta once her studies resume, I’d like to flag up a whole range of films that a postsummer audience may wish to avail of – or to avoid, in some cases.

And, if any of your childer are still enjoying time off – or, indeed, if you’re one of our lovely young readers with an interest in cinema – there are a couple of films here which they may be interested in ...

Spy Kids: All the Time in the World (PG, 89mins, ) is one that only the least demanding of chil-

FILMS OF THE WEEK: Various to (PG to 16) Directors: Various Starring: Spying children, an inventive Death, a Lovely Girl, one vengeful barbarian and lots of tuneful young people

OUR VERDICT: WHILE Cowboys and Aliens has been chasing, roping and then beaming up plenty of audiences at the Box Office recently, several other films have also charged onto the screen, with Kate warning that some are particularly avoidable, while the rest are merely passable. Still, she says: “It’s the summer season, so what else can we expect at the cinema?” Quite.

dren could warm to, as the long-running series gets reheated for, what, its 5th film? The 17th?

Cinemagoers can surely spy better family- and child-friendly films than this tired addition, which is full of clumsy editing, shoddy effects, noise and confusion. Spy Kids – it’s time to retire.

Moving on from children to teens and young adults, and Final Destination 5 (16, 92mins, ) is another franchise sequel.

Once again, some lucky youngsters somehow miss an accident

that was supposed to kill them – only to then find that Death has inventive ways of finishing them off, one by one, in unlikely scenarios.

Admittedly, this sounds like a carbon copy of the four prequels, but – sssh – that doesn’t seem to bother fans, directors, or the studios that keep bankrolling the sequels.

So, for those looking to see annoying characters struck by debris from an airplane, this is the film for you.

One day, we’ll be free of such cozily formulaic films – and, speaking of

cozily formulaic, here’s One Day (12A, 107mins, ), the latest Anne Hathaway rom-com vehicle attempting to persuade audiences to hand her the Lovely Girl crown.

Time and again, regular gal Hathaway crosses paths with posho Jim Sturgess on the same day, year in, year out, until they gradually come to realise that perhaps sweet, sweet love is why they keep meeting. Awww.

I expect this film to do marvellously, though I suspect that it’s a film that Mr Crowley, and his ilk, would have to be forced at gunpoint to attend.

He’d probably say much the same in reverse about Conan The Barbarian (15A, 112mins, ), which is continuing Hollywoods’ interest in rebooting old franchises or individual films.

Best summarised as “Single barbarian, seeks vengeance”, Conan wan-

ders through typically brutal fantasy lands, battling henchmen, monsters, a sorceress and Ron Perlman.

I can’t dislike anything with Ron Perlman as much as I should, so I’ll let this Barbarian pass.

Finally, Glee: The 3D Concert Movie (PG, 84mins, ) is one of those films that is practically review-proof, and review-redundant, as, much like a banana, everyone knows what Glee is, and what to expect.

As such, the hit TV show takes a turn on the big screen, with its stars delivering a concert experience that fans will doubtless love and enjoy, but not quite certain cinema reviewers.

And there you have it – a mixed bag of not especially tempting offerings, but not to worry, as once the school holidays are behind us, we can always bank on more interesting films being released.

25 August252011 August SWORDS 2011 GAZETTE 17

COLLEGEOPTIONS OPTIONS

Exploring THIRD-LEVEL education

| HIGHER EDUCATION |

New life begins for students Q DAWN LOVE

IT’S been a tough year for thousands of second level students in the Greater Dublin area.

Firstly, there was the build-up to the Leaving Cert, then the stress that comes from actually sitting it and then the weeks that follow, waiting anxiously for results.

T his week, in our s e ve n - p a g e C o l l e g e Options guide, we feature some of Dublin’s top colleges, including Maynooth University, Senior College in Dun Laoghaire, IT Blanch and St Laurence’s College.

Gazette reporter Hiromi Mooney recalls

LOCAL

MATTERS SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESS Access to higher education means a level playing field for students as they consider their options

her daunting first days at university, and some of our best-known TDs talk about their college years.

While many students will have obtained the

results they wanted, some will have missed out on their chosen courses and degrees.

This week, we speak to the President of USI, Gary Redmond, about

his top tips and advice if you didn’t get the points and the course you had hoped for.

He also gives some sterling advice on how to get through the first

few weeks of student life.

And, whatever course you decide on over the coming weeks, we wish all our students the very best of luck.

ADVERTISE WITH THE GAZETTE CALL 60 10 240

18 GAZETTE 25 August 2011

COLLEGEOPTIONS OPTIONS AIB launch a new student website AIB have announced they are launching a dedicated student website, www. stuff4students.ie, which will be offering exclusive discounts and offers for students, not only in first year but in all years in college.

The site will also contain information on managing finances for students.

One of the key components of AIB’s 2011 Student communication campaign is the ongoing dialogue with students through www.stuff4students.ie.

Some of the key features of the site will be the budgeting tool, weekly/ monthly competitions, relevant articles with advice and blogs on surviving your college years.

Exploring third-level education

| WHAT NEXT? |

Dun Laoghaire centre is the place for answers

Solid choices: Good advice from DIT SIOBHAN O’Donnell, a furniture design graduate at DIT, is just one

of the many graduates from the college pushing the envelope of their careers after attending the institution.

Students have never had such a range of CAO options to choose from, or so much advice from every quarter, and Head of Admissions in DIT, Frank Costello, said: “Before accepting an offer, be sure that you know what’s involved in the programme and that you are enthusiastic about undertaking it – after that, start looking forward to your college career!”

STUDENTS who have recently received their L e av i n g C e r t i f i c a t e results and are asking, “What’s next?”, can find answers galore in a new publication from Dun Laoghaire Youth Information Centre called What’s Next?

It provides information about the types of grants available, a list of colleges and courses, and where to repeat your Leaving Certificate.

The guide also contains information for former students who want to get a job instead of going to college, or who want to take a gap year, which can provide a breathing space or time

out from the pressures of studying.

The free publication explores all these options, and is available from the Youth Centre on Library

They have also produced information leaflets on student finance, accommodation and evening classes, as well as student guides to the

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

‘The Centre is holding an exhibition on What’s Next? throughout the months of August and September’ --------------------------------------------------------

Road, beside Playcentre, in Dun Laoghaire .

Dun Laoghaire Youth Information Centre is also holding an exhibition on What’s Next? throughout the months of August and September in the Youth Information Centre.

Dun Laoghaire area.

For more information, contact the centre at info@youthquest.ie, or call them on 280 9363.

The centre is open every weekday, and the staff will be happy to help with any query you may have.

WE HAVE 146,000* READERS EACH WEEK *based on standard industry measurements

ADVERTISE YOUR BUSINESS TO OUR READERS CALL 60 10 240

25 August 2011 GAZETTE 19

Essential reading for Leaving Cert students

Homeopathy workshop

| VIEW FROM THE USI PRESIDENT |

Next steps for college success Q GARY REDMOND

ALTHOUGH it has only been a matter of weeks, secondary school, and the stressful ordeal of the Leaving Certificate, must seem like a very distant memory.

The unbearable anticipation and long wait for the results has finally ended. In recent days, you’ve probably either been online or opened that all-important CAO letter. This represents a new chapter in your life.

So, what should your next step be?

If you’ve secured your place in college, the next

thing you must do is check if you qualify for a maintenance grant. All the information you need, including the application form, can be found on www.studentfinance.ie.

On this website, you will also find other helpful information on scholarships, bursaries and other financial assistance that may be available.

If you qualify for a grant, either download the form or complete it online, enlisting the help of your parents if necessary. Get your application in as soon as possible, so that you will receive your grant payment in good

time. The earlier you return the form, the more likely you are to receive your first grant payment close to the start of the college term.

Last year, due to a number of factors, many students didn’t receive their first grant payment until after Christmas and, in some cases, as late as March or even April.

If, on the other hand, you didn’t get what you expected either in your Leaving Cert results or in the CAO – don’t panic.

If you didn’t get your top choice on the CAO consider accepting a lower choice if it was

Gary Redmond is the president of the Union of Students Ireland

offered as you may still get offered a higher choice in the following rounds.

On the other hand, there are many PLC courses that will allow you entry into to college next year, and repeating the Leaving Cert is always another option.

The good news is that there are many differ-

ent options out there, so take the next few days to relax, think things over and seek advice from your career guidance teacher.

The key to college life is that you will reap what you sow, so get involved as much as possible: take up a new sport, join some college societies and try something that you’ve

never done before. Your student years will probably be the best years of your life - expect action, fun, but also stress!

And, through it all, bear in mind that you can drop into your students’ union at anytime and they’ll be happy to help keep the experience as memorable as possible.

Best of luck!

THE Irish School of Homeopathy will be running a Get Started in Homeopathy workshop at Milltown College in Ranelagh on September 4.

T h e wo r k s h o p i s designed for those who would like to use homeopathy at home for themselves and their families.

During the workshop, participants will be taught how to prescribe for common acute complaints (sudden and short-term conditions) such as coughs, colds, flu, and first-aid remedies. Also covered are children’s remedies for teething, stomach bugs and exam nerves.

For further information, contact Angie Murphy, Irish School of Homeopathy, on 01-8682581, or email info@ish.ie

20 GAZETTE 25 August 2011

COLLEGEOPTIONS OPTIONS Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge offered THE popular Dioplóma sa Ghaeilge programme at NUI Maynooth resumes this autumn.

Students of the course can expect to vastly improve their level of Irish through discussion and debate in classes, attendance at lectures on various aspects of Irish language and culture and a weekend in the Kerry Gaeltacht.

This course is suitable for people who already have reasonable competence in the language.

For those who may not be ready for this year’s enrolment, the Language Centre’s Teastas Eorpach na

Gaeilge (TEG) learning system will bring prospective Dioplóma students up to the required standard.

Assessment

TEG is a system of Irish language learning and assessment at five levels, from beginners to advanced.

This year, TEG Level B2 was given official recognition by the Department of Education and Skills as meeting the Irish language requirement for the colleges of primary education.

For further information, see www.nuim. ie/language or www. teg.ie.

Exploring third-level education

| ASHFIELD COLLEGE OPENS ITS DOORS |

Students welcomed THIS September, Ashfield College will open its doors to a new cohor t of fif th year, sixth year and repeat Leaving Certificate students from Lucan.

Not only will there be a new intake of students, there are other new faces at the college - and some less new than others.

With maximum class sizes of 25 students, Ashfield College, Templeogue, is building on its longstanding reputation for offering students the very best tuition in a friendly, and student-focused environment, with the return of the school’s founder, Joe Griffin, a familiar name throughout the local community.

Ashfield College has a fine track record of academic success

Griffin has 40 years experience as an educationalist and has been a mentor to thousands of students in their studies. From the beginning, Joe Griffin has put a focus on small class-sizes and individual student attention from top-class

teachers. Griffin says he is delighted to return for the 2011/2012 academic year.

“A s h f i e l d C o l l e g e has traditionally been a popular choice for Leaving Certificate students from Lucan,” said Griffin. “Since the school’s

foundation over 30 years ago I have had the privilege of seeing so many students from all over Ireland reach their potential under the guidance of some of the finest teachers in the country.

“It is an honour to witness a new beginning

for such a wonderful resource. I believe that now, more than ever, Ashfield College is the logical choice for ambitious Leaving Certificate students.”

Students will also be able to avail of comprehensive study notes covering the entire syllabus, which are provided on the first day of term, as well as video classes and class notes available online through Ashfield Online, the school’s e-learning portal.

Philip Burke, the new chief executive, who was a student of the school from 1990-1991, says that the community atmosphere he experienced during his Leaving Certificate year is integral to the school’s teaching ethos and success.

“When I prepared for my Leaving Certificate in Ashfield College in the early 1990s every teacher knew every student by name, and everyone was on first-name terms,” explains Burke. “The key to the school’s success is in its philosophy of individual attention. Every student is an individual, with their own specific requirements.

Potential

“Every teacher is a gifted communicator who is expert at helping students maximise their potential for exam success. It really is a community and that makes all the difference at such an important and often stressful time in young people’s lives.”

Founded in 1977, the school is situated on acres of landscaped gardens in a peaceful south Dublin location, away from the distractions of the city centre but easily accessible by public transport. It has been fully refurbished with state-of-the-art facilities, including specialised teaching rooms for all 21 subjects offered.

25 August 2011 GAZETTE 21

Essential reading for Leaving Cert students

Respond to UCD’s housing studies course Q news@gazettegroup.com

THE Respond! Housing Association, in partnership with University College Dublin (UCD). is set to offer mature students the opportunuty to study for a Bachelor of Social Studies in Housing & Community Studies (BSS), a parttime four-year degree.

The course is designed

for adult learners, who wish to return to education while maintaining a positive work life balance.

The Respond! offering is the only degree of its kind in Ireland.

T he BSS employs a multi-disciplinar y approach in its analysis of housing, community development, social policy and aspects of

management.

The degree is accredited by University College Dublin (UCD) and students gain professional membership of the Chartered Institute of Housing (CIH), with access to work placements throughout the degree.

Lectures are delivered two days each month in Dublin at the Respond!

campus in Drumcondra, or the UCD campus in Belfield.

Tutorials are held in various venues in order to accommodate students.

Further information about the course can be obtained by visiting w w w.respond.ie, by contacting 0818 357901 or emailing bsscourse@ respond.ie.

A wide range of information technology courses are on offer at Dorset College

| CAREER OPPORTUNITIES |

Consider a future at Dorset College IN THESE challenging times, students need to consider things beyond the score of their immediate preferences when considering what courses to do in college.

Dorset College is striking out to meet the needs of students and future employers in its offerings, and the courses reflect the current requirements of the workplace and provide excellent prospects and career development opportunities.

In the information technology space, Dorset College is offering courses to enhance career opportunities, and meet the needs of the shortage of

personnel in the expanding Information Technology sector, from Beginner to Advanced level.

Options

With the likes of courses in Computer S y s t e m s E n g i n e e ring, Cloud Technology Professional, Oracle Java Programmer, Oracle Database Associate Administration, or taking the CompTIA A, +CISCO CCNA or Microsoft Server Administrator courses, there is a wide range of options for students.

Students also need to consider and ensure that they get the right quali-

fications to commence their career paths with security, financial rewards and mobility.

The full-time HETAC Higher Certificate in Business Level 6 will provide students with a strong foundation in a range of specialised business areas such as Business Management and Organisation, Information Technology, Finance and Law. The FETAC Nursing Studies, FETAC Social Studies and the Multimedia Production Courses provide an opportunity to acquire new skills, competencies and knowledge leading to a career path in

that field.

As an alternative to repeating the Leaving Certificate, these courses provide direct entry to third level Certificate and Degree programmes in the Institutes of Technology and Universities in Ireland.

The college’s suite of full-time programmes also includes the ACCA Diploma in Accounting & Business, ACCA Qualification, and Computer System Engineer (CompTIA A+ & CISCO–CCNA).

For further details, contact Dorset College at 01 830 9677 or log on to www.dorset-college.ie

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

22 GAZETTE 25 August 2011

COLLEGEOPTIONS OPTIONS

Minister for Children Where did you go to school?

I went to the Dominican Convent, Sion Hill in Blackrock Where did you go to college?

I did a Degree in Social Sciences, in UCD. A few years after that I did a Masters in the London School of Economics in Social Work and Social Administration.

Your first job after college?

After UCD, I worked in a small children’s hospital called St Ultan’s which has since closed. While there I worked with disadvantaged families whose children were being treated in the hospital. After that, I went on to do my Masters and to get Certified as a Social Worker.

Joan Burton TD Minister for Social Protection

Where did you go to college?

I went to UCD on a scholarship What did you study?

Bachelor of Commerce and then Chartered Accountancy.

What was your first job after leaving college?

Trainee Chartered Accountant with Price Waterhouse What advice would you give students heading to college for the first time this year?

Enjoy every moment and work hard!

Developing the skills for life LAST month saw the third set of Leaving Certificate students attend The Homework Club, and the club’s founder, Dr Naoise O’Reilly, is starting to see a pattern developing in the approach needed, to not only survive the trials of the exams, but succeed in your dreams.

“We feel everyone is not only good at something, but can use this experience to do anything,” said Naoise. “We try to develop the skills for life.”

The Homework Club, based in Main Street, Blanchardstown, takes a

more holistic approach to study.

“Before starting with each student, together we assess their strengths, aptitudes and potential to guide the students towards an achievable goal, one they desire and enjoy.

“We don’t believe in cram-learning and unnecessary stress,” says Naoise.

“The best analogy I can give you is making an omelette. If you wanted to make an omelette you wouldn’t worry about what goes in to it, you just simply open the fridge and see what’s to hand.

We never worry about learning off cookbooks.

For everyday meals we simply know from experience what works and may just check a few details like the temperature and cooking time.

“Study is exactly the same, regardless of the subject. If you understand it, and can relate to the material in a way, there is no need to learn off endless information.

You simply need to develop your own skills to remember the important details, like the cooking time! The rest will come naturally.

“Similarly, in this cur-

The Homework Club aim to deliver skills for all students’ working lives

rent climate it’s possible that you will get slightly challenging exam papers in June. This has happened for a number of years now, and seems to coincide with the increased pressure in the education system. We try to develop coping strategies in our students so they can survive in these situations. To go back to

our omelette analogy, you should find yourself in a position in the exams to simply open the fridge in your mind and pull out whatever ingredients you need.

“Being able to stay calm and focused, work your way out of the situation and relate what you do know to the questions you are being asked.

These are not only skills for the Leaving Certificate but for life after.

“We have seen almost all of our students thrive in the last three years with this very simple outlook.”

For more details on The Homework Club, contact Naoise at 085 1129660, or visit their website at www.homeworkclub.ie

gazette

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Frances Fitzgerald TD

| THE HOMEWORK CLUB |

www.

Q&A

Exploring THIRD-LEVEL education

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25 August 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 23

Essential reading for Leaving Cert students

| COLLEGE LIFE |

Facing your first year Gazette Reporter, Hiromi Mooney, recalls her first few days at University RIGHT, now that you’ve got your Leaving Cert and have gone through the CAO process, it’s now time to face your first year in college. Yes, it’s a big step – new surroundings, new people, and sometimes a new home.

I began my life in college two years ago. Of course, there are both advantages and disadvantages to whether you commute or live on campus. I chose to stay at home and commute by two buses – two hours each way. It was tiring and took a lot out of my day, but it was cheap and the journey was made shorter when I had an iPod – when the battery hadn’t died.

I went to college on my first day on my own and I knew nobody. A few people in my class knew each other or were from the same area, so they established their cliques very quickly, and I was completely out of my comfort zone.

It was very nervewracking. But the more I got talking to people, I realised that a lot of them were just like me – scared, feeling lost and wanting to make friends. And we did.

I then discovered that college life makes you completely responsible for everything you do.

You now have no teacher chasing you for your homework, or have your parents nagging you to study for your tests.

On your own

You are now in charge of making it to those 9am lectures, meeting deadlines, making your own notes and study plan, and, if you’re living alone for the first time, you have to start cooking your own dinners and doing your own washing.

But this gives you great independence and freedom. Plus, there’s a great social life in college.

When you hear college

Gazette reporter, Hiromi Mooney

people say “join clubs and societies,” take their advice on board. They can help you make new friends outside of your classes in college, take up a new hobby and learn some new skills – whether it’s dancing, juggling,

radio or surfing. Get involved and try something new.

Now I’m starting my final year in college and, looking back, I have achieved so much in the past two years. I have made a new circle of

friends, I’ve been able to balance the time between projects, social life, work and all that.

So, what’s my advice?

Embrace college life with open arms, enjoy every moment and make the most of it. Good luck!

24 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25 August 2011

GazetteMOTORS MOTORS RoadSigns Road Signs TOYOTA TOPS US BRAND SATISFACTION INDEX: GENERAL Motors’ Cadillac brand and Toyota’s Lexus range topped the recent American Customer Satisfaction Index’s annual ranking of car companies. Toyota was the only nonpremium brand in the top five, tying with Cadillac and Lexus with 87 points on a scale of 100, followed

by Lincoln and Mercedes-Benz with 86.

BMW was in 11th place receiving 83 points, dropping three points to its lowest mark since an 80-point ranking in 1997. Volkswagen’s ranking showed the largest percentage increase, while the Ford brand also rose.

Among the seven Asian brands in the index, all but Mazda recorded an increase.

Honda, Hyundai, Kia and Nissan all recorded increased rankings.

Toyota’s new Verso S is a practical and easy-to-drive mini MPV. The car has a petrol engine-only option that’s a big sluggish on the road, but the entry price is competitive at €16,995 for the basic version that has all of the safety features.

The practical Verso S If you are thinking of downsizing your motoring then the new Toyota Verso S may well be a car worth giving more attention to, as MICHAEL MORONEY reports following his recent test drive OYO TA’ S n e w Verso S was a car that I quickly got comfortable with.

I mean that, once behind the wheel, it was easy to drive and all of the controls were logically and conveniently placed. That gave me an instant good feeling about the car.

I found that I got used to this car easily and it was comfortable to drive.

The high seating position gives great visibility for everybody on board.

This new Verso neatly fills a gap in the Toyota range left after the small Yaris Verso of the past.

The new car is slightly bigger, more modern looking and uses a newer petrol engine.

T

SPECS: TOYOTA VERSO S 1.33 Top speed: 170 km/hr 0 – 100km/hr: 13.3 sec Economy: 18.1 km/litre (5.5l/100km) CO2 emissions: 127g/km Road Tax Band: B (€156) Euro NCAP Rating: 5 Star (2011) Warranty: 3 years or 100,000km Entry Price: €16,995

Toyota offers only one engine option for the new Verso S. This is petrolfuelled, which is a bit surprising as over 70% of all new cars sold are now diesel-powered. Toyota has some good diesel engines in its line-up, but not for the Verso S. The engine is a

1.33-litre, four-cylinder unit – it’s reasonably smooth and quiet in operation. It is rated at 99bhp and, like many petrol engines, needs to rev to 4,000 rpm to get the maximum torque.

When that is linked with a six-speed gearbox the car should be lively and thrifty. My test drive found the car not as lively as I had expected. The engine needed to go to 3,000rpm, even in sixth gear, to reach 120km/hr on the motorway, and that meant that it was not as thrifty as I had expected.

Relative to the competition, the acceleration performance at 13.3 seconds for a 0 to 100km/

hr race is reasonable. I found it somewhat sluggish from behind the wheel.

My test run of about 580km used a full 42-litre tank of fuel. That meant that I achieved about 20% less than the rated economy level of 18km/ litre (51mpg). That bit disappointed me because, if I had achieved the rated performance, the car could have driven on for over 200km more!

Some of that difference may be due to my driving style and the varied road conditions. Despite all of those variables, I was less impressed with its economy figures.

The CO2 rating at 127g/km puts the car

into Band B for road tax purposes and that means an annual road tax rate of just €156. Again, that’s as good as it gets for a small petrol-engine car.

Relative to the competition, which includes the Honda Jazz, Hyundai ix20, Opel Meriva and Nissan Note, the Verso S was the class leader in economy terms.

Everything else about the car impressed me. The second-level specification Luna version, which I drove, included the new Toyota, 6.1 inch, full colour, touch screen system called Toyota Touch. This provides drives with a comprehensive multimedia interface. It incorporates an AM/FM radio,

a CD/MP3 player, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, a USB port for the connection of portable music players, a trip information screen and a rear view camera.

The Verso S has a comprehensive safety package on board. The car has seven airbags, driver and front passenger airbags, a driver’s knee airbag, front side airbags and full-length side curtain shield airbags.

The Verso S comes with a three-year warranty and a service interval of 20,000km or 12 months. Those features will ensure low running costs, as servicing this petrol car should not cost more than €150.

Volkswagen is the new partner to Irish Rugby Team VO L K S WAG E N I r e l a n d h a s announced that it will be the official motor partner of the Irish Rugby football Union (IRFU) until 2016. This partnership complements Volkswagen’s existing relationship with Leinster

Rugby. The partnership also includes supporting the IRFU tag rugby programme, alongside Volkswagen’s Leinster rugby summer camps.

As rugby reaches fever pitch in September, Volkswagen will host a series

of Breakfast Roadshows prior to the games within various Volkswagen retailers across the country. These events will give Volkswagen customers the chance to watch the games with selected rugby heroes. The Breakfast

Roadshow will also include a competition, where Volkswagen customers will be in with the chance to bring five friends to an upcoming match involving one of Volkswagen’s brand ambassadors.

25 August 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25

GazetteBUSINESS BUSINESS

Interview: Stephen Morrissey of Bathrooms Complete

Making bathroom dreams a reality STEPHEN Morrissey runs Bathrooms Complete, located in Blackrock village. It is a successful, familyowned business that has established a reputation for quality and excellence over the last 30 years.

Stephen saw that home improvement jobs can be a daunting prospect for most people, particularly when there are numerous trades involved.

That is where his experience enables him to find the right design and solution for bathroom designs.

A bathroom renovation by Stephen and his team always starts with the removal of the old bathroom and the preparation of the room with the highest standard of workmanship, seeing the job right through to the end with the minimum of disruption.

The average bathroom is fully renovated within five days, and, once it is complete, the client can relax with the peace of mind that Stephen’s commitment to quality materials and workmanship carries a Bathrooms Complete five-year guarantee.

Stephen’s showroom is open to customers, and he offers the latest designs in high-quality sanitary ware, shower enclosures, bathroom furniture, accessories, tiles and wood floors from leading European brands such as Grohe, Roca, Heritage, Jacuzzi, Merlyn, Dansani, Sonia and Boen wood floors.

Stephen’s technical consultants will call to a client’s home to carry out a free survey and help design a dream bathroom.

For full details, visit their web site at www.bathroomscomplete.ie or call them on 01-2832244.

Q: What was your first job?

A: Picking strawberries Q: And your first pay cheque?

A: 5p a punnet Q: Have you ever done a job you loathed?

A: Yes, picking strawberries Q: When did you start your present job?

A: 20 years ago Q: What is the best thing about your job?

A: Receiving compliments about our workmanship and finished product

Q: Have you achieved anything that you once thought you could not pull off?

A: Yes, getting my wife to marry me Q: What part of your working day do you ‘delegate’?

A: As much as possible Q: What’s currently on your desk that shouldn’t be?

A: Stuff that I forgot to delegate

KEEPING DOWN THE TAX BILL ON A RENTED PROPERTY Q – I bought a house a few years back but moved away with work. I’m now renting out the house. I was told that I can deduct a certain percentage of the contents insurance value as an expense, thereby saving on my tax bill. Is this true? Stephen - Killester A - Yes, you can offset the purchase of your contents for your rented property as an allowable expense.

This does, however, also open a can of worms because, once you rent your residential property, you MUST make returns to the revenue each year by October 31 whether you are making profits or not.

There are a number of requirements, most of which can be offset against your Rental Income Tax Liability (RITL) including: • Registering your property with the Private Tenancies Registration Board (PRTB - costs €90 for the tenancy and must be registered within 31 days or the fee doubles to €180.

Multiple tenancies in one property costs €375) • Non Principal Private Residence Tax (NPPR - you pay €200 annually for every residential property that is NOT your home)

Stephen Morrissey, of family-owned Bathrooms Complete

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

A: I wanted to be a binman when I was 4

ANSWERS TO YOUR PERSONAL FINANCE QUESTIONS

Q: Is there anything about yourself that you would like to set the record straight on?

A: No. It’s all true Q: What sport do you follow?

A: Golf

Q: What was your last tweet/facebook status?

A: Don’t have time for either Q: Describe your dream meal?

A: I’m very fond of a good Irish steak

Q: What sport can you play?

A: Golf

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

A: I’d prefer to eat alone

Q: What habits would you like to change?

A: Missing three-foot putts

Q: Where do you enjoy spending money frivolously?

A: What money?

Q: At the moment, what are you looking forward to?

A: The weekend and spending time with

Q: How many pairs of shoes do you own?

A: I have a few

my family

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

A: The music of REM Q: Who best represents modern Ireland – David Norris or Jedward?

A: David Norris Q: What music do you have on your iPod/iPad? A: Rolling Stones, REM, True Gritt Q: Who do you follow on Twitter/Facebook?

A: No one

Q: What was your worst holiday experience?

A: Christmas day in Lanzarote with my family in the hospital with a tummy bug

Q: Describe your dream holiday?

A: Driving a camper van across Australia

• Mortgage interest - you can claim 75% of the interest against your RITL • Maintenance - any expenses incurred in the upkeep of your property, eg changing the boiler, new taps, broken glass etc • Service charges - this generally incorporates buildings insurance for apartments and landscaping, et al • Buildings insurance - if it is not an apartment and stand-alone house insurance • Furnishings - you can offset the cost of your furniture, fixtures and fittings by 12.5% (or 1/8th) each year for eight years (keep the receipts) • Management charges - you may employ someone to look after your property. They may charge between 9% and 12% of the annual rent each year – this can be offset against your RITL.

with my family

Q: What would be your dream job?

A: Professional golfer Q: What do you plan to do when you retire?

A: That’s so far in the future I haven’t even thought about it

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

GAZETTE

26 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25 August 2011

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PET SERVICES PET MINDERS Safe, Cosy, Pet Boarding.

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Highly trained security dogs for sale. References available,watch our dogs in action and read our many references at www.topdogtraining.com or phone 087 0514467

SEWING CLASSES/ CURTAIN MAKING Beginners and Improvers 6 week Sewing Classes on Dress Making and Curtain and Roman Blind Making Starting Mid-September.

Half Day workshops also resuming in October. Book your course on www. sewgreat.ie, or call 01 822 7650. Curtain and Roman Blind making service at competitive prices. We reline and re-pleat all curtains; full selection of poles and rails available.

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CARPENTRY CARPENTRY SERVICES Local Carpenter Available 25 years experience Family run business All Domestic Work done to highest Standard Doors,Floors,Renovation Work etc. No Job Too Small If You Want a Professional Job Done, contact Barry on 087 6165209.

DRIVEWAYS CONCRETING OF DRIVES and paths, Kerbing. We can lift and relay your own flags.

Widening of drives, Block Paving, Pressure washing of drives, All types of garden work undertaken, Rubbish shifting. Ring Michael on 089 4461224.

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Free Estimates Phone John : 0879982782 MAINTENANCE From a leaking tap to a dream bathroom, We carry out all aspects of household maintenance inside and out, no jobs too small. Fully insured and registered with 35 years experience.

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prices. References available on WWW.MARKCOMPANY. IE find us on FACEBOOK Please phone Mark on 0879442445

RECRUITMENT SALES ADVISERS required to sign up Electricity and Gas customers to discounted rates. No exp necessary, full training provided. OTE €500/Week. john@billsave.ie or call 016619505 ANN SUMMERS RECRUITMENT EVENING Want to earn €4,300 in the next 3 months? Join me at the Ann Summers recruitment evening on August 31st at 7pm in the Ardmore Hotel Finglas.

Interested in booking a party? Contact Sandra on 083 4093964 & receive your free party bookers goody bag.

TILING A1 TILES AND BATHROOMS Complete Bathroom Refits from Design to Installation All Tiling work carried out: Walls, Floors, Kitchens, Halls, Bathrooms etc., supply & Fit Family Run Business over 30 years experience. All Work Guaranteed. Phone 086 8256003.

25 August 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 27

GazetteSPORT

LONDON IN FOCUS: Exclusive interview with David Gillick on his 2012 hopes: Page 29

GAA: ETIHAD EXPAND BEST CLUB CONTEST TO AUSTRALIA FOR MATCH OF A LIFETIME

Fancy a trip Down Under to represent GAA? sport@gazettegroup.com

ETIHAD Airways, the UAE’s national airline and sponsor of the GAA Hu r l i n g A l l - I r e l a n d Senior Championship, is looking to send one club to Australia to play the challenge match of a lifetime.

Etihad is asking clubs around the countr y to tell them what their greatest achievement is.

Achievement comes

in many forms, not just silverware. Etihad wants to reward one special club for their greatest achievement; whether that is being the focal point of their community, or managing to keep the club going against the odds or even growing their club in recent times.

The winning club will get its first team flown all the way to Australia, where they will train with GAA legend

Nicky English ahead of the challenge game of a lifetime.

On October 28, the Best Club Down Under will play an Australian select team as the curtain raiser for the International Rules match between Ireland and Australia in the Etihad Stadium, Melbourne.

Lucan Sarsfields were the Best Club Under The Sun in Dubai in 2009, after netting the prized honour in that

Lucan Sarsfields were voted best club under the sun in 2009, and are seen here in Dubai

year’s equivalent competition.

Oz adventure Justin Warby, Etihad Airways Country Manager Ireland, said: “The GAA and hurling has spread far and wide across the globe and

is particularly strong in Australia. We, as an airline, are about connecting people around the world and the Best Club Down Under competition marries both these elements perfectly. We hope to see clubs from every corner

of the country entering The Best Club Down Under.”

As part of Etihad’s sponsorship of the GAA All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship 2011, every club in the country is invited to nominate itself to become

The Best Club Down Under and the public will then be asked to vote for the club they feel deserves to win.

To enter this year’s competition just log onto www.etihadgaa.ie and fill out the form to nominate your club.

28 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25 August 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

LADIES FOOTBALL: LOCAL STAR HELPS JACKIES’ CAUSE

Peamount part of new national league PEAMOUNT United have been included in the inaugural FAI’s National Women’s League. The league, containing seven clubs, will be officially launched in October, with a start date set for November.

Following a presentation on July 12, seven clubs were invited to compete in the league, namely Bray Wanderers/ St Joseph’s, Castlebar Celtic FC, Cork Women’s FC, Peamount United, Raheny United, Shamrock Rovers, and Wexford Youths Women’s AFC. Speaking about the new development, women’s senior team head coach, Sue Ronan, said: “This is a very exciting time for women’s football in Ireland. The new National Women’s League will continue to nurture and develop the women’s game at domestic and international level. This new National League will be a cornerstone in the future success of our game.”

Towers host fundraiser table quiz Round Towers’ GAA club are holding a table quiz fundraiser on Thursday, September 1 at 8.30pm, which will include a raffle for the

main prize of two All-Ireland hurling final tickets to see the mouth-watering encounter between Kilkenny and Tipperary at Croke Park on September 4.

Participation costs €40 per table of four, and more information can be found at roundtower.ie.

Sinead Aherne in action against Brid Stack, centre, and Briege Corkery, as the senior footballers made their bow in the championship

Dublin into the last four AISLING MCGING Dublin Cork

0-14 1-12

sport@gazettegroup.com

ROUND Tower’s Hannah Tyrell was to the fore when Dublin ladies’ senior B side progressed to the last four of the Aisling McGing Tournament this week, despite a loss to Cork in their final group game.

Following a commanding performance against Galway, Tyrell and her team mates had already secured a place in the last four of the tournament, but will have wanted a win over old rivals Cork.

The game itself swung both ways with each team dominating for periods of time.

In the first half Cork opened the scoring with a couple of points before the Dubs got in on the action.

Then the play went up and down the field for the middle third with no one able to make anything of the chances.

Dublin pointed twice, off the boot of Sinead Deegan first and then Rebecca Davey followed close on her heels to narrow the gap to two, but Cork converted a free and took over the game until the half-time whistle sounded, with the score 1-8 to 0-4.

The Girls in Blue took over the reins for the opening passages of the second period and added five more points to the tally, bringing the deficit back to two.

Cork converted another free and the baton passed to the Rebelettes who added a further three points in the middle third to a Dublin reply in this period of a lone point, coming from Eadaoin McGuinness.

The baton passed back to the Girls in Blue who now had a five-point deficit to catch.

Tyrell popped over two points, Sinead Deegan added another and, with about a minute left of injury time, Anna O’Grady put over the tenth point of the half in Dublin’s favour.

Dublin may have won the half, 10 points to four, but the time ran out and the total left the Dubs trailing by a point to register their first defeat in this year’s Aisling

McGing competition.

The score board read Cork 1-12 to Dublins 0-14 at the end, but the Dublin management will have been satisfied that the girls learned from the mistakes of the first half.

With both sides assured a place in the next round, Dublin will be looking forward to taking the game to Cork once again.

Disappointment In the equivalent fixture for the senior A Jackies, there was heartbreak when the Rebelettes ran out winners after Dublin had held a substantial lead going into the final phase of the match.

With 16 minutes left, Dublin led by 3-10 to 2-7, but seven unanswered

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

points from the Rebels saw them over the line to reach the last four.

Dublin eased into a commanding lead but, slowly, Cork began to get on top, coming at Dublin in waves as the reigning champions early intensity began to catch up on them.

Two from Mulcahy and then one by Healy left a goal in it, and, while Dublin were trying to defend, they could not withstand the siege.

The momentum was firmly with the Rebels now and the comeback was completed in the 57th minute when Murphy scored her fifth point, Cork playing keep-ball in the closing stages to run down the clock and claim a semifinal spot.

25 August 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 29

in association with

Running for the dream again

David Gillick took the tough decision to bow out of athletics to regroup for the 2012 Olympics , and ROB HEIGH found he is ready for the challenge

TAKING a step back from an intensive training programme and admitting defeat is a galling thing for any competitor in any sport, but no more so than for an athlete of the calibre of David Gillick.

The Dundrum man has been the flag-bearer for Irish 400m running in recent years, twice winning the European indoor title and appearing in prestige events worldwide in recent years as he prepared to take on the ultimate challenge of the Olympic Games in London in 2012.

With that goal in mind, David decided to leave his base in Loughborough in England last winter to work with ath-

letics legend and coach to many of the leading lights in sprint, Lance Brauman, in Florida.

Brauman was the man who helped Tyson Gay rise to the upper eschelons of 100 and 200m running.

But a combination of circumstances have conspired to lead David to make the decision to bow out of competition for the season, and miss out on a place at the World Championships in South Korea, one that he explains he did not take lightly when he spoke excusively to Gazette Sport last month.

“I made the decision with medical advice, and with a view on London coming around. I felt that if I was to continue

David Gillick at Lucan Harriers recently

doing what I was doing, and hope that something would turn around, or skip the Worlds and race toward the end of the season, I was jeopardis-

and the times were not good again, and I knew there was something wrong.

“In my mind, I was thinking, “I’m not right,

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

‘Qualification is well within my capabilities. I am getting into the training that I know is going to take me to London next year.’

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

ing my health for next season. If I was in a hole now, I didn’t want to dig myself in any deeper. By making this decision, it gives me more time to get myself right, mentally and physically.”

David went on to explain the circumstances behind his diminished form this season.

“I tore my calf at the end of February, which put me out for about eight weeks. By the time I got back into full training on the track, it was the start of April. When I came back, I didn’t have much time, I only really had six weeks to regain my full fitness. I attacked it and did everything I could, but I had more niggles. But I raced anyway, and my times were going backwards.

“I knew in myself that I wasn’t right - I would be waking up in the morning and I would have pains in my legs. So I then raced in early July,

this isn’t good”, and mentally, you begin to panic. Especially with the Worlds coming up.

Two years ago I was sixth, and anything less than that would have been a failure.”

The experience of training with Brauman was one that was filled with positives, but there were also downsides to being so far from home and in a new training environment.

“I wouldn’t change what I did in the last year, I learned an awful lot from Lance, and I will bring that into my training going forward. Being in a group with Tyson Gay and Steve Mullins, world-class athletes, you pick up a lot. It’s positive as well to see the mental aproach from these athletes just how professional they are in how they approach things. It gives you a lot of hunger.

“I relocated to just outside Orlando back in

October 2010, to a new group and a new coach, and I was injured for that length of time. It was very depressing, not being able to do what I normally would be doing, and being away from home and the support network, the infrastructure of family and friends, and my own medical team I had built up, made it increasingly difficult.

“In America, I missed my friends, my family, and I missed Dublin.

“So I made a decision that I won’t be going back to America. I’ve decided I’m going to split my time between here and Loughborough. Coming into Olympic year, I want to be somewhere where I know it works.

I’ve a good relationship with the group, the coach in Loughborough, and that’s where I want to be.”

With less than 12 months before the start of London 2012, what are David’s thoughts on the year ahead?

“I’m taking a confident view on it. I know I’ve run within the A standard for the last four years.

Ideally, I would like to have done it this year, the year before the Games, like I did for Beijing. But I feel that the time is well within my capabilities, so it’s a case of getting into the training that I know that is going to take me there.”

FastSport

Power plays fundraiser for Temple Street kids DARTS legend, Phil “The Power” Taylor was in Donabate recently to take part in an exhibition tournament at the Waterside House Hotel.

Having recently won his fourth European title, Taylor pitted himself against 15 darts fans who had raised funds for Temple Street Children’s University Hospital for the opportunity to step up to the oche with him.

By his side, was another darts legend, Denis ‘The Menace’ Priestley.

Over 200 darts fans descended on The Waterside House Hotel to watch these champions in action, and a great fun evening was had by all.

30 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 25 August 2011

GazetteSport Sport FastSport

RUGBY: RESULT IRRELEVANT AS COACH CASTS EYE OVER PANEL

Rugby club train with boxer Tony Fitzgerald CLONDALKIN Rugby Club have been landing big hits in abundance over the summer months.

Players from the Gordon Park club have been trying to ensure they can punch above their weight in their inaugural Division 1 campaign by training with one of Dublin’s best boxers.

WBA world number 10, Irish super middleweight champion and EBA European middleweight champion, Anthony Fitzgerald, has been putting Clon players through their paces over the summer months.

“We tried to spice things up in pre-season.

We wanted to motivate all five senior teams to get as fit as possible and the boxing classes were gruelling but great,” said captain Kevin Cullen.

Clondalkin gymnasts go international

Adamstown win in Corkagh Park thriller

CLONDALKIN Gymnastics Club were delighted to take up an invitation from Precision Display Squad to take part in an International Gymnastics festival held in UCD Dublin.

The event not only showcases Ireland’s best gymnastics display teams but also teams from England, Scotland and Wales travelled to take part.

Precision,originally formed in 2008, are coached by Denise Coughlan and have also had the honour of representing Ireland at the GFA World Championships in Austria where they were awarded a bronze medal.

ADAMSTOWN Cricket Club secured a narrow vctory last weekend when a wide and a run from the last ball of the innings saw them take the spoils against the Microsoft Social side at Corkagh Park.

Some big hitting

by Microsoft had threatened to set a very imposing total, but solid fielding all day, and fine bowling from Adamstown, restricted the visitors to 136 all out.

Chasing 137 in reply to win, Navroop Johnson top-scored for Adamstown with 37, and captain Gurdeep Toor to score a run off the final ball of the day to secure a dramatic, last-gasp four-wicket victory.

Clondalkin showed a solid defence and promising new players in their ranks in the friendly with Seapoint. PIcture: Sharon Flanagan

Clon’ get back to business PRE-SEASON FRIENDLY Seapoint Clondalkin

15 15

sport@gazettegroup.com

A PRE-SEASON experiment that asked more questions than it answered was the outcome after Clondalkin got their 2011/2012 campaign off to a satisfactory start in Seapoint last Saturday morning.

Clon managed a draw against a mixture of the AIL outfit’s Under21 and J2 side, but this game was more about running the rule over the new squad make-up than the final result.

After impressive per-

formances all round, first team coach Paul Haycock has a welcome selection dilemma ahead of the club’s inaugural Division 1 campaign, which kicks off next month.

New signings John Walsh and Neil Finely made impressive debuts, whilst Simon King and Paul Nolan registered all-action displays.

Ben Foran and Dave Gaule proved Clon do have out-half depth, and now have the option of using former Ireland underage international, Chris Jebb, at 15.

However, while the old and the new both

Meeting of martial arts: Superfoot lands on Irish soil LOCAL grandmaster of martial arts, and founder of the Oriental Martial Arts Academy Ireland, John McGrane, offers a hand of welcome to martial arts legend Bill “Superfoot” Wallace, left, on a visit to Ireland recently.

Wallace was the Professional Karate Association middleweight champion kickboxer for over 15 years and was a trainer and close friend to Elvis Presley and John Belushi.

impressed, it was the upand-coming that stole the show.

Underage graduates Niall Nolan and Bobby Smith scored the tries that secured the visitor’s a deserved draw.

Seapoint were intent on putting width on the ball from the off and their running approach, aligned with the fact they dominated possession, meant Clon’s defence was tested early on.

Seapoint eventually got reward for their positive start, scoring a wellworked try and being gifted another. Clon’s most regular headlinegrabber, Chris Jebb,

stole the spotlight for the wrong reason, fumbling the ball to allow the hosts to make it 10-0 as half-time approached.

Niall Nolan soon went about saving the former AIL players’ blushes when he burst onto a beautifully floated Foran pass before evading two tacklers and finishing in typical style, to make it 10-5 at the turn.

After displaying his evasive skills, 19-yearold Nolan, who looks to be benefiting from a full season of first-team rugby under his belt, took a more direct route to score just after the turn.

The winger moved into scrum-half and, seconds after James Kenny was held up after a good charge from Ciaran Cullen, muscled his way over the line.

Clon continued to dominate the remainder of the half and Derek Glennon made an impressive cameo, but it was 18-year-old Smith made the most lasting impression.

The front-row sub bounced the opposition flanker from a standing start 10 yards out before carrying their winger over the line with him to level as full time drew near.

25 August 2011 CLONDALKIN GAZETTE 31

in association with

AFL 2: TOWERS HAVE PROMOTION FATE IN HANDS

CLUB NOTICEBOARD ROUND TOWERS THE senior footballers were narrowly beaten by Fingallians and Naomh Mearnog in the league.

Murray or Niall Connaughton.

This week’s Lotto numbers were 6, 12, 24 and 29; Bonus Ball 17. There

There will be a community-wide

was no winner of this week’s jack-

flag weekend on the weekend of

pot of €3,600. Congratulations to

Friday, September 2 until Sunday,

Paul and Betty, Paul Harold and

September 4. There will be collec-

Frank Cos grove, who were the

tions in place all over the Clondalkin

three €100 winners. Next week’s

area so, if you have an hour or two

jackpot is €3,700.

to spare, please contact Niall Connaughton on 087 629 0870.

The club congratulates Siobheal Keogh, daughter of long-standing

The club is entering a number of

club member and supporter, Tony

boat teams into the 2011 Dublin

Keogh, who represented Dublin in

Dragonboat Regatta taking place

August’s Rose of Tralee competi-

on September 10. There will be

tion. This was a massive honour for

light refreshments and a BBQ on

Siobheal, and all her friends in the

in the clubrooms that evening for

camogie section and throughout

all. Should anyone be interested in

the club were wishing her the very

taking part, please contact Damien

best.

ST PATRICK’S, PALMERSTOWN Round Towers could not shake off the challenge of Fingallians at Lawless Park last week

Play-off place still in reach despite defeat AFL DIVISION 2 Fingallians Round Towers

0-15 1-9

sport@gazettegroup.com

FINGALLIANS scored the first and last five points in this cracking match in Lawless Park last week to emerge with a vital victory, keeping their AFL2 promotion dreams alive, while pegging back the ambitions of well-placed rivals Round Towers.

An incredible Towers’ 1-4 blitz in five minutes early in the second half, inspired by Ciaran Carr and Cathal Carty, threatened to turn the tables on a brilliant Fins’ opening salvo.

But the Swords men rallied and will now take a lengthy break as they wait for talisman Paul Flynn to return from Dubs’ duty for their final two league ties, which they need to win to secure a play-off place.

Towers should make it there, too, but this setback looks likely to leave St Maur’s out on their own

in the promotion play-off place.

Towers initially looked a long way off the pace as Laois star Brendan Quigley and midfield partner Danny Campion marauded forward from midfield to sublime effect.

Bursting forward, they combined for four points of six in a remarkable opening nine minutes which saw the hosts 0-6 to no score ahead and looking likely to extend the margin.

Left boots were to the fore for the majority of their scores and Donal Farrell’s outer-boot slider was the pick of this early thrashing.

But Towers rallied, not delaying in subbing in Eric Finn and Paddy Stines, and Carty got them on the board with a powerful rush, shaking off a couple of markers before flashing a white boot for a fine point.

Carty has been a major influence since returning from his travels in lift-

ing Towers up to second place, taking over the fullforward mantle from John O’Brien with a measure of dash. Ian Ward was equally forceful and they steadied the ship to head into the break down 0-9 to 0-3.

There were enough signs of recovery for Fins’ manager Dan Davern to introduce Carl McAllion and Barry Clarke. For the former, though, it was a luckless night, injuring his ankle within a couple of minutes of his introduction forcing a third sub in 120 seconds.

Despite Farrell’s third point, it unsettled Fingallians and the visitors took the opportunity to pounce. Carty’s pair of frees were reward for a more aggressive stance, forcing Quigley to take a more subdued role, while Stephen Gibney and a Carr’s effort reduced the margin to two.

And they had the lead for the first time when Derek Murray ghosted

a ball into Carr and he seemed to surprise even himself when he clipped and exquisite shot into the top right corner of Rossa Kelleher’s goal.

But a string of frees allowed Fins to level and they had a gilt-edge chance to finish Towers when Farrell’s goal-bound effort was foot-blocked.

David Killeen clipped the ensuing penalty over the bar, holding his head in his hands at the miss, but it proved a vital score, retaking the lead.

And, while this bruising affair saw five minutes of extra time, Fingallians held their shape to give little room for Towers to counter and gleefully celebrated Farrell’s fourth point and a further insurance score from Conor McLoughlin.

Their Sunday tie with O’Toole’s was pulled on the intercounty rule, it being one of Fins’ final two games, leaving them in good shape for the challenges ahead.

SENIOR footballers had a good mid-

semi-final can be collected at the

week league win over Erin’s Isle but

clubhouse on Thursday from 7.30 to

lost by the narrowest of margins

8.45pm.

away to St Maur’s.

Well done to the Dublin Under-

Our thanks to the camogie sec-

21 hurlers on their big win over

tion on their well-run quiz on Friday

Antrim and now face Galway in the

night and our sincere thanks to all

All-Ireland final on September 10 in

who supported the event.

Thurles.

The last of our successful sum-

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 7, 9,

mer camps finished on Friday last

12 and 19. There was no winner of

with nearly 100 young boys and girls

the €3,200 jackpot. Match any three

in attendance. Our thanks to GPO

numbers were Noel Ryan and Bernie

David, and his coaching staff, and

Menton and each receives €100. Next

to co-ordinator Maree O’Toole for a

week’s jackpot is €3,400.

job well done.

Tickets for next Sunday’s football

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

LUCAN SARSFIELDS As part of its 125th anniversary cele-

prize competition in late September.

brations, Lucan Sarsfields is hosting

Call Michael on 087 2331983 or Dave

Comortas Na Sairsealagh on Satur-

on 087 2522656 to get on timesheet.

day, August 27.

Visitors welcome.

Comortas Na Sairsealagh is a spe-

Condolences to the McGann family

cial tournament event where Sars-

on the death of Jenny’s mother, who

fields clubs from all over the country

passed away in New Zealand earlier

will compete in Gaelic football, hurl-

this week. Condolences to the Claffey

ing, camogie and ladies’ football.

Family on the death of Marie’s father.

Great win for senior B camogie in championship semi-final.

Great week on pitch for adult football teams with wins for senior, intermediate and junior teams. Good draw also for junior hurlers with Whitehall Colmcilles.

Ar Dheis De go raibh a anam dilis.

Lotto: Numbers drawn were 4, 7, 14 and 16.

There was no winner. Next week’s jackpot is €6,500.

Seamus Clandillon’s team will be in charge next weekend.

Golf Society plays Kilcock on Sat-

Do not forget you can always enter

urday, August 27: tee-off times from

our Lotto online by clicking on www.

11.30am to 1pm. Second last outing

lucansarsfields.ie.

of 2011, last opportunity to join the society and be eligible for captain’s

Thanks to Carey’s Newsagents who are this week’s sponsor.

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ALL OF YOUR CLONDALKIN CASTLEKNOCK SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31 SPORTS COVERAGE FROM PAGE 27-31

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Peamount United Ladies’ FC will face Paris St Germain after they became the first Irish team to qualify for the UEFA Women’s Champions League.

They gained the honour of going into this week’s draw after being one of the two best runners-up in the eight knockout groups which contested the final places in the prestigious tournament.

Peamount knew that they needed a big score going into their final group game against Parnu in Slovenia. The rules of the group discounted the result against the bottom team, and, having dispatched Krka 7-0, they were going to need a good margin of victory to ensure the best runners-up place .

Second-seeded Parnu squared up well to Peamount from the outset, and it looked to be a well contested opening few minutes, but Jenkins meant business and was in the box when a shot from O’Sullivan hit off Parnu goalkeeper Meetua and then the cross bar, before settling back at Jenkins’ feet for her to slot home and settle Peamount’s early nerves.

Despite an injury setback the last game, Lawlor was back fit and ready to pounce

in the 30th and 33rd minutes, first putting home a pass from Sinnott and for the second, Quinn set Lawlor up for a one on one with Meetua and there was only going to be one winner.

Peamount were three goals to the good at half time, but Parnu came out all guns blazing and capitalised in the 56th minute through Ivanova.

At 3-1 it looked unlikely, given other results at the time and goal difference, that the team from Newcastle would qualify for the next stage.

Peamount needed more goals and Roche delivered on 80 minutes. She secured another in injury time to make it 5-1. It was that goal that ensured that Peamount United were the first runners up to qualify for the knockout stages on six points and a +3 goal difference.

Unsure of the final standings, it was a tense 20 minutes as the team waited in the changing room for confirmation from UEFA of the final standings. Chairperson of Peamount United, Denis Cummins, let out a roar from the hall when he received the news and celebrations broke out among the girls clad in the green and

Peamount ladies will get a taste of European action next month

black. Champagne popped and tears flowed as Peamount United Ladies’ Premier team becomes the first Irish team to qualify for this stage of the competition.

Speaking after the game, Denis Cummis said: “I’m so proud of them, they have done so well, the heat was intense in two

of their games and they really have done this club proud.”

Manager Eileen Gleeson, assisted by Aisling O’Neill Carroll, will eagerly anticipate the tie against the French side, the first leg of which is due to be played in Dublin on September 28 or 29.

GazetteSPORT

Peamount set for Paris match